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redsoxnation32

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Well guys, Im usually not one for traditional knives or slip joints, but recently, I have been craving something case. I haven't owned a case before, but I figured now is as good a time as ever to do so. Im really lost when it comes to looking at all the knives on the knife store websites, so what do you guys recommend as a good starting case. Pricing is anywhere from $0-$60/70. Maybe $70, not likely. What is the knife that will reallt hook me on traditional knives?
Thanks!
 
SIZE MATTERS!

What length closed are you interested in? Also, how many blades, and what type/shape of blades?
Without these parameters to narrow it down, you could get 50 different answers from 50 different people.
 
black mamba said:
SIZE MATTERS!

What length closed are you interested in? Also, how many blades, and what type/shape of blades?
Without these parameters to narrow it down, you could get 50 different answers from 50 different people.
Click to expand...

well, Im kinda open there, maybe 2-3 blades 3-4 or so inches closed. maybe a whittlin blade and a clip point..........
 
Well, I'm brand new to traditionals...but since I ask and get all my questions answered I will try to do my part and answer yours.

I think if you ask around, for the price range you have listed, assuming size etc is not a factor: Seems that the consensus is that the Case Swayback Jack CV in Chestnut is the best quality for your buck. I've had mine for a week, and it has kicked all other knives (traditional and non) out of my pocket.

That's the extent of my wisdom. I can add specifics that it feels very stout and robust, no blade play, and has very stiff half stops. The CV high carbon blade develops a patina very quickly, and it sharpens up very easy. I'm considering buying a second one just to have in Case (no pun intended) this one gets lost etc.

-Freq
 
^^The Swayback is an excellent choice.

You also can't go wrong with a Texas Jack or Medium Stockman (which is also available with a spey blade in lieu of the pen). Both of these are sized at 3 5/8" closed, available in a variety of handle materials with either stainless or carbon blades, and can be found for well below your price limit.

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Pics borrowed from SHC.
 
By a whittlin blade I assume you mean a Wharncliffe or sheepfoot--a blade with a straight edge. You can find one of those plus a clip point blade together in the Case Wharncliffe Mini-trapper. They come in a variety of handles, and at 3-1/2" closed, falls right in the middle of your stated range. Should run between $45 and $60 depending on handle material.
 
I think you should try the Texas Jack! It's what your looking for, it's about what you want to spend and from the sound of it, the Texas Jack in amber bone with CV would be a perfect fit! Well that's my take on it !!

Jason
 
redsoxnation32 said:
Well guys, Im usually not one for traditional knives or slip joints, but recently, I have been craving something case. I haven't owned a case before, but I figured now is as good a time as ever to do so. Im really lost when it comes to looking at all the knives on the knife store websites, so what do you guys recommend as a good starting case. Pricing is anywhere from $0-$60/70. Maybe $70, not likely. What is the knife that will reallt hook me on traditional knives?
Thanks!
Click to expand...

Have a look at the different patterns, and try to find one that calls to you more than the others. Not all folks like the same ones. It's just like a 31 fllavor ice crean store; some guys will go for a pistashio vanilla, while the next guy may go for a mint chocolate chip.

With stockmen, Texas jacks, canoe's, peanuts, trappers, barlows, swayback's, and even mini trappers, it's hard to tell what you may like untill you try one for a while.

And that may take a while, too.
 
My personal favorties for using and ease of pocket carry are the mini trapper, canoe and 6318 medium stockman (the one with rounded bolsters - doesn't wear through pockets). Don't be afraid of CV. If you rub it down with oil every once in a while it won't rust, and the patina it picks up over time will help show where the knife's been. As far as handle material, amber bone or yellow composition. Nothing more traditional than that!
 
A word of warning. Think Lay's potato chips.

Actually, go to the copperhead/copperlock thread and review my posts. Then come back here and explain why I "had to have" a large copperlock with yellow bone. I really need to know the answer to that question.

Ed
 
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