After waiting for two long weeks, my Warthog came in via UPS. Well worth the wait and the $45.00 (total) I spent. Gotta love E-Bay!!! Very sharp (high carbon, 1095) right out of the box. The handle is long and thin, and the Micarta gives a good grip, and appears shock proof. The short (3 5/8" blade) has a full belly and feels similar in "heft" and chopping power to my CS SRK, although that knife has an almost 2" longer blade. I love the ridges on the back of the blade as they provide a very sturdy surface for my thumb, providing good positive control of the knife. The full tang gives an overall sense of power and leverage, making this a solid little tool. The point is a little high for thrusting, but since I'm hiking on trails and not engaged in knife fights I'm all set... !The sheath, well, I'm thinking it carries a bit low. I'm also concerned the wide blade (although perfect for skinning/camp chores), may cut through strap upon withdrawing the knife. A nice rugged sheath, but the strap may well end up getting lopped off.
I'll tell you what, I'm very happy that I bought this instead of the Tom Brown Tracker/Topps knife for $250.00 0r more. I know it is 3-4" longer and has more chopping power, but if I need more "chopping power", I'll bring my Norlund or Wetterlings Hatchet, or cut a billy and whack this beast right on through. This Ka-Bar is not as fancy (no saw on top, but I feel those are useless on a knife anyhow), and is not a current fad, but has the same 1095 high carbon steel, same handle material, similar design (in my eyes anyhow), similar sheath and the best part...I still have the extra $200.00 or more in my pocket. Is this my first choice as a "survival" knife; no. But neither would the Tom Brown Survival knife be my first choice. I would take my CS Trailmaster Bowie. But I'm not planning on a survival situation, just looking for a small handy fixed blade to keep in my car for lunch time or mid afternoon hikes. If I did break my ankle several miles back in the woods, and armed only with this knife, I could cut branches for a shelter, firewood/shavings, make a spear or crutch, etc. I'm happy as hell with this blade.
