Nicer Alternatives to a Sodbuster

Splitear · Dec 10, 2020

I’m in the market for a new carry knife, and have been whittling down what I’m looking for. I’ve decided that I would like a single blade folding skinner. I don’t really need/want multiple blades, and I need something that I can pinch open, as I am regretfully a nail biter.
I really love the size and feel of my full size Sodbuster, but would like something that is a little bit prettier. I really like the looks of the bone Jrs, but I just wish they had those scales on a full size Buster. Any suggestions would be appreciated!

afishhunter · Dec 10, 2020

Does country of origin matter? Budget? Readily available, or gotta search/hunt for a while?
Bear and Son may make one. I believe Rough Ryder has a large sodbuster pattern with jigged bone.

Splitear · Dec 10, 2020

afishhunter said:
Does country of origin matter? Budget? Readily available, or gotta search/hunt for a while?
Bear and Son may make one. I believe Rough Ryder has a large sodbuster pattern with jigged bone.

Good questions. I’d like to stay with a US made knife, even German, but am really just looking for something with a good quality-value ratio. Probably staying around $80 or less.

lambertiana · Dec 10, 2020

Take a look at the Maserin Plow that Mike has:

https://www.collectorknives.net/product-category/maserin-cutlery/maserin-plow/

This is actually a little smaller than a standard full size sodbuster, but larger than a standard sodbuster jr. D2 blade, with a variety of handle options. Mine is ground quite thin behind the edge, too.

hornetguy · Dec 10, 2020

If a lock back doesn't bother you, you should definitely look at the Case Tribal locks. Beautifully balanced, great feel in hand. The build quality is, in my experience, as good as Case gets.... which can be very good. They are also in your price range, and can be had with Tru Sharp stainless, or CV carbon steel. Great value in a knife..

Splitear · Dec 10, 2020

I spent some time browsing eBay tonight and I ended up making an offer of an old liner locking Case Soddie, which the seller accepted. I’m kind of shocked, but this is really what I have been wanting, outside of the plain scales. My other Sodbuster came from my father, and really don’t want to carry it too much for sentimental reasons. This old locking one should scratch the itch!

Will Power · Dec 11, 2020

Some of theGEC micarta in Farm&Field are very attractive but lie outside the price cordon unfortunately. (like most GEC stuff now whatever its condition

)

JohnDF · Dec 11, 2020

Splitear said:
I spent some time browsing eBay tonight and I ended up making an offer of an old liner locking Case Soddie, which the seller accepted. I’m kind of shocked, but this is really what I have been wanting, outside of the plain scales. My other Sodbuster came from my father, and really don’t want to carry it too much for sentimental reasons. This old locking one should scratch the itch!

Nice! Good job hunting down exactly what you wanted.