Looking for a multi-purpose knife. I'll try this sub-catagory

[cteichman]

Gents,

I'm new to this forum, but I'm certainly a knife enthusiast...

I'm looking for a knife to keep in my backpack when I'm on the trial. I prefer S30V, 154CM or similar steels. I do not want a 1095 or non-stainless steel knife.
I already own an ESEE 5 and it's great in drier climates, but the non-stainless factor prevents me from taking it in the woods for extended times.

I'd like a knife that can clean animals, clean fish and function as a camp knife as well... a true utility knife. I'm thinking between 4.5" up to 6.5" in length.

Thanks,
CT

 

[matus]

Hi CT, I am very new here, but I sure it would help others to give you some recommendations much easier if you would state your budget.

 

[cteichman]

The max. I prefer to spend would be about $200... good quality steel being the key factor.

 

[Rich S]

Get a larger model Victorinox, like the Trekker, etc. Everything you would want in a knife to do what you describe.
Rich

 

[Insipid Moniker]

Check out the Ontario SK5 Blackbird if you like 154CM. It's a good knife and well within your budget.

 

[highestpoint]

look at http://www.knivesshipfree.com/bark-river-knives/

 

[cbach8tw]

First thing that comes to mind is Fallkniven F1 or S1, vg 10 laminated stainless and within your price range.
Now, you can also look at WAS or now called WA Surls knives, they are in 154cm and you can find some bargains as they come up on here once and awhile. Lastly, ESEE is now making them in stainless, I believe in 440 C. Good luck and let us know how it goes.

 

[RedLynx]

I would suggest any of the various Ontario models, although I only have experience with the coated ones and some say not to use those on anything food-processing related (I have never had a problem but, this is just me).

That said, with very little effort and maintenance, that ESEE 5 would also be fine for extended woods work. Keeping an eye out, a bit of care and oil, it'll do just fine. But I wanted to also offer a recommendation and not some "your current knife is actually fine" comment.

 

[cteichman]

I've been thinking about a Fallkniven S1. Even though it's made in Japan I'm strongly considering it.

 

[RedLynx]

I've been thinking about a Fallkniven S1. Even though it's made in Japan I'm strongly considering it.

Japan makes some excellent stuff, and Fallkniven in particular (funnily enough for a Scandi company I think they've always made their knives in Japan but don't quote me on that) does. You wouldn't go wrong with one.

 

[Surfingringo]

Hi cteichman, I think the Spyderco Southfork is what you are looking for. It is a Phil Wilson design and was made to clean large game (elk) and fish but it also excels at light utility and kitchen use. I use mine almost daily at the fish cleaning table and it is an amazing design. S90v steel is a great performer too with excellent edge retention and stainless properties.

 

[spikebot587]

if you like esee, they also make some stainless models. i think a stainless esee 4 would fit the bill.

http://www.theknifeconnection.net/e...micarta-handle-black-kydex-sheath-clip-plate/

while 440c may not be considered the best steel, when done right it can be quite good. and rowen does it right

 

[Colorodo]

Check out the KnifeMaker forum under fixed blades some nice knives and prices.

 

[cteichman]

Thanks Gringo, but I think those Southforks are a bit too steep for me... big fan of Spyderco though.

 

[wesmanthetiger]

Tops Pasayten. Around 5", 154CM, great as a light carry option in the back woods. Coated gray. Nice blade for your kind of use. Seen them mostly around $140

 

[gadunz]

Svords, L6 steel dht
Farmers, 5" blade

Deluxe General Purpose 6 1/4" blade

& for the dogging, rifle & bowless, pighunter who doesn't want to carry both a sticker & a skinner, there's the
Hunter, 7" blade

http://www.svord.com/index.php

If you're worried about rust & you're not cutting enough raw meat for the blade to slowly build up a blood patina, give it a forced vinegar patina. Soak blade in vinegar for 24 hrs, drip dry, resharpen & finally coat with edible beeswax.
Oops, I just realized, he only wants stainless.

 

[cteichman]

Thank you gents very much... I've narrowed it down to the Fallkniven S1, Tops Pasayten and the ESEE stainless model. All seem to be good quality. I've own a good Tops Skinning knife that has that blood patina you eluded to. A great trusty tool indeed.

Thanks a lot for your insightful comments.
CT

 

[coxhaus]

I am new but I have a Ontario RAT-3 in D2 steel. They made D2 versions before Ontario and ESEE split apart. You could check eBay since you like your current knife and maybe just buy a D2 version. They are getting harder to find the D2 version so you may need to look for awhile.

 

[cteichman]

Just thought you gents should know... I decided on a TOPS Pasayten. I'll be taking it elk / deer hunting this year. I'll be sure to give you my review if any are interested.

 

[strategy9]

Just thought you gents should know... I decided on a TOPS Pasayten. I'll be taking it elk / deer hunting this year. I'll be sure to give you my review if any are interested.

We're always interested in a good field review breaking down a knife adtee actual usage.

Remember to take pictures!