Need help choosing between two knives.

P

Planetcat

Joined
Jul 28, 2009
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Ok, after about as much research as anyone should spend on any purchase, I've narrowed it down to two knives (used primarily for big game hunting and bushcraft): Spyderco Temperance 2 OR SOG Team Leader 20CV. Here are my concerns about each:

Spyderco: I'm not sold on the VG10 steel. This is based on a lot of internet reading, reviews, and discussions with knife shops. Basically, I need something that will really hold an edge, and I think there are better steels for this. Also, I don't like the little tactical kydex sheath, but can live with it.

SOG: I know SOG has it's issues. This knife is perfectly spec'd out for me, except I hate the handle/scales. I find it very hard, rough, and too narrow. I can live with it if the blade is great. I like the leather sheath, too.

I would prefer to buy the Spyderco if I can be convinced that the VG10 steel will hold an edge, especially while skinning/butchering big, tough, wild pigs. Any input is appreciated. Thanks.
 
My other choices were:

- Fallkniven S1 (blade thicker than what I wanted and a bit longer)
- TOP Pasayten Light Traveler (didn't 'wow' me, blade a little fatter than I would like)
- Al Mar SERE Operator (perfect specs for me, but I didn't want false edge on top of blade)
- Bark River Sandstorm (didn't wow me either)
- Buck Simonich Raven (too tactical styling)
- Al Mar Shiva was beautiful, but blade too long and very expensive.

My main criteria was blade length (5"), thickness (.14-.18), blade material (premium steels), handle material (micarta, G10 or other composite), and sheath (prefer leather).
 
If you like the SOG, you could always replace the handle slabs. It looks like they're simply screwed on.
 
I thought about replacing the slabs, but not sure where or how I'd get replacement ones. My fabrication skills are limited.
 
If it's only between those 2 knives then SPYDERCO handsdown:thumbup:
IMO Spyderco quality is awsome !
out of your other choices I'de go with BarkRiver or the F1 over either of your fist 2 choices. The other option is to contact one of the makers on here pick up one of their blades ;)
 
I'm guessing the sog is AUS8? VG10 puts AUS8 in the dirt with force! The temperance is a much better knife. VG10 is my favorite steel. Ive been using it for a while.
 
VG-10 is probably my favorite steel. And don't believe for one second that VG-10 "isn't tough enough"... I baton and chop the hell out of my Fallkniven S1 (VG-10 blade) and it keeps a keen edge a good many other steels can only dream of retaining.
 
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