NW Ranger vs. Field Knife - reccomendations?

[carpediem]

Between the Northwest Ranger and the X-42 Field Knife, for hunting, camping, all around outdoor use which do you prefer and why?

Thanks for your thoughts or experience,

Tom

 

[Ron Andersen]

Hi Tom,

Both the X-42 Field Knife and the Northwest Ranger of similar general character. Where they differ are:

• Blade Steel: The BG-42 of the Field Knife will assure you that it is unlikely a "field sharpening" encounter would be required. But if it was, it would be a bit of a difficult chore. The AUS6 of the Northwest Ranger will hold an edge well (of course not in the league of the Field Knife), and offers more ease in field sharpening.
• Serrations: Love 'em or hate 'em. If you love 'em and find a benefit for them while camping, only the Northwest Ranger has them between the two. Hate 'em, and your decision's made.

Of course, this is a couple general issues, verging on over-simplification...and there are others. If you pin-point your needs a bit more, I can certainly help out more.

And I'm sure others will jump in with their thoughts.

 

[carpediem]

To pinpoint my needs a little better. I will use the knife for hunting (skinning, gutting), camp chores: meal prep.(nothing like apple pie from a dutch oven in camp), cutting rope, line, and general whittling (or messing around with whatever is around). I would also carry the knife while backpacking or hiking, in my truck or RV, and in my emergency pack I carry in my daily driver. I would probably use it around the house for various chores as well as training my three kids on how and when to use a knife.
Serrations are not an issue. Comfort of the handle during long use is a big factor, if you have ever hunted in cold wet weather you know what I mean. I noticed the Tactical Ranger has a bead blast finish, is this some kind of sandblasting with another form of media and how does it effect the corrosion resistance of the blade? The sheath is really not a concern, I will probably end up making one or two to suit my needs (its great therapy to tinker with gear).

Thanks again,
Tom

 

[carpediem]

After looking at the two links you noted on each knife I have the answer, install the Field knife handle on the Tactical Ranger! I remember reading about the super secret SOG clandestine black skunkworks somewhere, I'm sure they can " Handle " this. I'll need three for myself, and at least three to give away as gifts to amigo's in our Countries Service. Leather sheaths, maybe On Scene Tactical can assist with alternate forms of carry for the three deployment knives.

Its all so simple,

Tom

ps. Just curious, would you have something that shows the actual size of the Ranger knife tang?

ps1. Nice car Ron, Glock too, I qualified with mine. If your not having fun, your doing it wrong.