Pilot survival knife questions

K

King Grinch

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Feb 6, 2000
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I have seen the production versions of this. What is the best one? It is the Spec-plus with the good handle and plastic guard or do I get something that resembles the issue knife? I really like the Spec-Plus. What are your general opinions on this type of knife?
 
I've always liked these knives. My "issue" pilot survival knife (I bought it in the '60's) is made by Camillus. I carried it during my military career. I've owned other military knives by them and they are best for me -- the fighting/utility, etc. I have given my two sons, and one son-in-law (my daughter made a wise choice in this young man!) each a Randall knife but my two boys always took pilot survival knives with them on Scout camps and hikes because they had the tendency that all boys have to lose things. These knives were easy to replace at about $18 in those days. Now that they are older, they still carry them sometimes, and sometimes they carry their Randalls.

My only issue is with the "butt-heavy" feel they have. ...but this is due to the design and if fulfills the measure of it's creation very well. Just my own opinion.

Bruce Woodbury
 
My feeling is the kbar type knives are stronger (stronger tip and no saw teeth (that don't cut wood well anyway) to weaken the blade or to get stuck in something) and probably better balanced for approximately the same price.
 
I own a Camillus Pilot's knife (might be issue, bought second hand) and a Spec Plus SP-5, which is the bowie and not the same model you're asking about. I can't comment on the SP pilot's knife directly, but I did do a review of the SP-5 bowie from a fit 'n finish perspective posted somewhere on BF.c.

My thought is that you're probably concerned with QC, fit and finish as opposed to improved functionality. I think both blades are 1095. My Camillus is parkerized, my SP-5 coated with some epoxy. Both coatings have held up fine.

Both hold take and hold good edges. There may be differences in heat treat. If the SP-5 is truly MILSPEC or better you'd be hard pressed to find it without extensive side-by-side comparison.

Functionally, I'm guessing the Camillus vs. the SP are probably very similar. I'd recommend that in either case, you get to handle the knife before you buy. My Camillus might be a tad wobbly in the guard, which is common. The integral guard of the Spec Plus might not have that. However, my SP-5 has poor grinds. But it's not a wall hanger, it is a very functional user.

I like both. They do what I want them to do, albeit each has a different purpose.

Do you care about handle or sheath materials?

Mike
 
I also own the SP-23, which is similar but has a metal pommel, IIRC. They' aren't in front of me, but I prefer the feel of the leather handle versus the plastic. The plastic would be less subject to shrinkage and be more suited to damp environments.

Mike
 
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