My First FBF Knife--Any Advice?

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Evany

Joined
May 7, 2007
Messages
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OK second, if the machete counts... I just discovered how awesome Fiddleback Forge knives are through this interesting sub forum--I have a 12" Machete that just arrived, and I'm already looking at getting another FBF knife. I want something for general woods use, with a big emphasis on deer hunting. If it also worked decently for food prep, that would be a plus. I was thinking the Bushfinger would be about perfect. What do you all think? Is there a better choice? As for steels, I'm open to pretty much anything, as long as it performs and can take sitting in the sheath for a few hours with just a wipe down after field dressing a deer. I don't have much experience with carbon steels in the field, but that spalted O1 sure is beautiful...
 
The bushfinger would work great, but I prefer something with a straighter spine and less drop like the recluse.

As far as steel, O1 is awesome but will form a patina really quick from blood. If that bothers you, I would go stainless. If not, carbon steels are amazing for actual use. They are tough and easy to sharpen.
 
It's hard to tell from the photos--what is the difference between the Recluse and the Bushfinger? I like a bit of a drop point for dressing out deer, but not so much that you can't use the knife as a skinner...
 
Recluse on the left Bushfinger on the right. Both are wonderful.

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Thank you!

Right now I prefer the Bushfinger. If the Bushfinger was a lady, I might cheat on my wife. It's that sexy to me. I kid I kid.

I use it in the kitchen all the time and I really like the height of the blade and the lack of guard. They are both solid performers outdoors. Haven't had the pleasure of cleaning any game yet though.

And to the OP:

Whichever one you decide on you will love. Andy makes a terrific knife. Hope the pic helped you.
 
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Not to confuse things but the bushcrafter might also be a good choice, especially as a skinner, since the tip is a bit more rounded. It and the bushfinger are my favorites.
 
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Yeah..... I nicked a deer bladder one time and got peed on...don't really wanna talk about it... ;)
 
I recently purchased my first FBF and opted for a Bushfinger. I also like the Bushcrafter but haven't found one I like yet. You can't go wrong with a Bushfinger, I have no regrets.
 
Yes I've made an accidental cut or two myself dressing deer.

I'm leaning towards the Bushfinger, but they all look amazing.
 
Deer hunting?! Well well. Welcome bro! You are in good company. I always try to get a few deer during the season as it is the only red meat my wife can eat.

My very first Fiddleback was a hunter I bought back in '09. It served me well throughout several deer seasons.

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Eventually, I moved on to a Bushfinger. (The Hunter was just a bit too much blade for me.)

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(Don't laugh, I know he wasn't a trophy. But it still filled the freezer.)

Andy's Bushfinger worker very well!

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It took care of this one during the IL antlerless season too.

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This year I hope to use my newest Bushfinger. (Yes I have two, for now....)

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I really don't think you can go wrong with any Fiddleback. Just pick one that catches your eye. And tell us what you think!
 
Well, if you have a 12"er then you are looking for the second component of your Nessmuk trio. You need something with a 4" blade. Those include the Bushcrafter, Bushfinger, Recluse, Ladyfinger, old small Nessie, KE Bushie, Terassaur (actually has a 4.5" blade), Kephart and Sneaky Pete. I may have missed one.

I have a Kephart I am carrying right now. Its got more of a spearpoint than a deer hunting knife though. I tend to agree with the advice above. A Bushfinger or Recluse is quite nice for this.
 
Schmittie, those are great photos! I guess you live in whitetail country like me. It's usually too wet, dark or my hands are shaking too much (or all of the above) to take a decent photo of a deer I've shot.

Seems like there are a couple of Bushfingers available at the moment so I'm gong to go with one, if I can. They don't come with a sheath right?
 
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