one-piece blade design

Joined
Feb 29, 2000
Messages
332
In the one piece line, which model is considered the best design for use as a general camping/survival knife? I've read the descriptions of the Sable, the Shadow and the Mountaineer but I'm confused. What are the advantages/disadvantages of each design? Indestructibility is a prime concern.
Anyone have experience with any of these? Any tales of how tough they are? Also, how rust resistant are they?
Thanks.
 
HD..
I have found the Project1, to be the best Camp/Survival Knife..
It is perfect for chopping, clearing, food prep, and most utility uses where the Sebenza leaves off..
It has just over an inch of serrations and a very strong spearpoint tip.
If chopping or clearing bush/branches is not an issue any of the 5.5" blades models would cover most camping needs.
The Sable and Mountaineer II are excellent for cleaning fish too.
The Kalgard coating gives good corrosion resistance..
Hope this helps..

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Murray Haday
ProEdge Knives
www.proedgeknives.com
Tel: 905 328 8212
 
I have had experience with both the Project II and the Shadow IV. For camping purposes, the shadow IV, Mountaineer II, and the Mark VI are ideal. The Projects I & II in my opinion have too long of a blade to be practical camping tools. When I camp ect., I bring my Firestone belt ax to do bigger jobs. Anything the 5 1/2" blades can't do, my camp hatchet will (and there is not much the 5 1/2" CRK can't do). I chopped through a live 3 1/4" branch with my Shadow IV in no time, and with no problem. My Shadow IV saw a lot of action, while my Project II collected dust. I recently skinned a raccoon, and the Shadow performed perfect, where the Project would have been to big and awkword. Maybe if I was in a cobat situation I would choose a Project, but camping, hiking, fishing or hunting the 5 1/2" does fine. I think the spear point blade (P1 and SH4) is aimed
more for military purposes and the clip points are aimed for camping purposes. I oil my knives on a regular basis, and have not had any problems with rust. I love my CR one piece knives! Lets keep our ears open because I'm sure there are more people out there that have more experience and knowledge on the subject than I.

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"Be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves." Matt. 10:16
 
General camping/survival is a pretty broad term. If its just general camping then I would have to say one of the 5 1/2" models would be the wise choice. My favorite is the Shadow IV but that is strictly based on my preference for the spearpoint blade. The Mountaineer II or the MK VI will work just as well, though the single hilt on the Mountaineer is a bit more practical for general camp use. I even had some single hilt Shadow IVs made up for my store because I think that makes them more practical.

If you throw survival into the mix then I have to say go with the Projects I or II. The two activities most used in survival situations are chopping and digging and the Projects are very well suited for both chores.

The blades are coated with Kalgard and it does a good job of protecting the tool steel of the blade.

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Dennis Wright
Wright Knife & Sporting Goods
1-800-400-1980
("Have a knife day!")
wrightknife@ixpres.com

[This message has been edited by Dennis Wright (edited 03-10-2000).]
 
Dennis..
My Thoughts Exactly..
When Survival is mentioned, I think of the Project1, for chopping, digging and most other tasks.
I have no probs carrying the P1 anytime when campin..




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Murray Haday
ProEdge Knives
www.proedgeknives.com
Tel: 905 328 8212
 
Dennis --

What is it about the single hilt that makes it more practical? I got a Mk VI because of the double hilt -- it just seems more "balanced" looking. Seems like it would give more protection to the fingers also. I guess the single hilt would allow more precision for close work? Your comments appreciated.

Steve

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...the LORD said unto Joshua, Make thee sharp knives… (Joshua 5:2)
 
Steve...
The top cross guard may hinder some, as that is where the thumb is placed when exerting downward pressure using a saber grip..
If you find you do a lot of fine you may consider a model with the single-guard..



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Murray Haday
ProEdge Knives
www.proedgeknives.com
Tel: 905 328 8212
 
I had the same concern about the upper guard that it might prevent me form putting my thumb on the spine to apply pressure on it. But what I found out on my Mark VI is that the guard is actually so small, that if you choke up on the handle it's easy to put the thumb over the guard and still get some good control.

I've never handled a Project I/II but their guards seem to be bigger and I wonder if this doesn't interfere with that kind of choking up handling.
 
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