Looking For Suggestions.....

BP_ · Jan 3, 2016

I'm looking for suggestions for a nice "in between" fixed blade. I like the BK2 size and stoutness, but to me (I'm a smaller guy), it seems a little much for a beat around woods knife. On the other hand, I feel the 3 1/2" cutting surface of my Steingass is just a little small, and it's such a beautiful knife I don't want to beat on it too much. The pictures show the style I prefer, but I'm not opposed to hearing suggestions for others. I want something quality, that I can feel confident taking out and really putting to work without second thought. I'm looking for something a little smaller than one, a little bigger than the other. I don't necessarily want to spend a fortune, but I'll drop a few bucks for quality steel and craftsmanship. I'm open to all suggestions, I'm not married to any one idea over another. I chose not to put any kind of "dream list" together, because I want to see if maybe someone suggests something I may not have even thought of.

strategy9 · Jan 3, 2016

Böker Plus Coye Oscar Mike
A 1/2" shorter then the bk2 in the blade, and almost the same in handle.
0.05" thinner
7 oz. lighter
Still a thick tough work horse.

Esee 4

BP_ · Jan 3, 2016

I like the style of the Esee 4 better than the Böker, I'll have to look into those. That would be the type of suggestions I'm looking for, though. I just don't know what else is out there.

Insipid Moniker · Jan 3, 2016

I would take a look at the Cold Steel Master Hunter. It would be a nice in-between of the two and is affordable, comfortable and nets you some very nice steel.

link2derek · Jan 3, 2016

Bark River Bravo Gunny is an excellent choice, IMHO. Here are the specs:

Overall length 8.4"
Blade Length 3.775"
Steel A2, 3V, S35VN, or Elmax
Thickness .156"
Weight 5.625 ounces
Full exposed tang, contoured handle
Leather pouch carry sheath included
Price about $180 and up (depending on steel and handle material).

Here's mine in A2 with Amboynia Burl:

It's basically a three-quarter-sized Bravo-1. Just begs to be used...

BP_ · Jan 3, 2016

Insipid Moniker said:
I would take a look at the Cold Steel Master Hunter. It would be a nice in-between of the two and is affordable, comfortable and nets you some very nice steel.

not a bad knife, not sure if I'm wild about the overall design though. but, it is simple and just looks like it can take anything I would throw at it.

link2derek said:
Bark River Bravo Gunny is an excellent choice, IMHO. Here are the specs:

Overall length 8.4"
Blade Length 3.775"
Steel A2, 3V, S35VN, or Elmax
Thickness .156"
Weight 5.625 ounces
Full exposed tang, contoured handle
Leather pouch carry sheath included
Price about $180 and up (depending on steel and handle material).

Here's mine in A2 with Amboynia Burl:

It's basically a three-quarter-sized Bravo-1. Just begs to be used...

that's not a bad choice there, although a tad smaller than I'm looking for. I may look into the full size model though.

link2derek · Jan 4, 2016

^^^ The regular Bravo-1 may be the one for you, then! It's may favorite all-around, one-tool option:

NCSlice · Jan 4, 2016

Sounds like the Becker BK16 is exactly what you're looking for.

BP_ · Jan 5, 2016

I like both those options, I never even thought about a BK16, or any other for that matter. The 2 is my only one at the moment. I'm not sure about the Bark River steel though, I haven't used it and I'm really unfamiliar with it. I'm just worried about it rusting too much or too quickly. admittedly, when I use a woods beater I don't do more than wipe it off and put it away until I'm back home.

bdmicarta · Jan 5, 2016

bloody_pawprint said:
I like both those options, I never even thought about a BK16, or any other for that matter. The 2 is my only one at the moment. I'm not sure about the Bark River steel though, I haven't used it and I'm really unfamiliar with it. I'm just worried about it rusting too much or too quickly. admittedly, when I use a woods beater I don't do more than wipe it off and put it away until I'm back home.

The Bark River knives are available in a variety of steels, some that are very corrosion resistant. The Becker BK16 is coated so that will help a lot with short term corrosion resistance. Many people say they do the same, just wipe off the blade, and it is OK. Then clean and oil it when you get home.

BP_ · Jan 5, 2016

bdmicarta said:
The Bark River knives are available in a variety of steels, some that are very corrosion resistant. The Becker BK16 is coated so that will help a lot with short term corrosion resistance. Many people say they do the same, just wipe off the blade, and it is OK. Then clean and oil it when you get home.

nice! I'll have to take a look at some of the other steels that are offered. I'm not head over heels in love with it, but if I found the right steel in that size, I could get some good use out of it. I'll have to check prices and stuff as well, I don't mind spending but I also want to make sure I'm happy with my purchase for the cost, whatever it may end up being.