Question re: Ruana Knives

[MikeH]

I need some info from Ruana owners.

In looking at the specs on the Ruana website, it seems to me that the stated dimensions for blade length and total length indicate that the handles tend to be rather short. This is the only reason I have not yet ordered, since I have larger hands. I do not like too-short handles on knives.

Does anyone have any input from hands-on experience?

 

[longbow]

In my experience those I have handled tend to have short handles. I owned a smoke jumper I belive it was called and an excellant knife but the handle wasn't over 3.5" if I recall. I have big mitts too and like a large handle. My EKI 14 probably has the best handle I have used to date. keepem sharp

 

[GronK]

I've owned a couple of Ruanas. The handles are too short and the pommels are "hooked" to keep you from using all the existing length. They were rather like a full sized bowie and skinner with three finger handles. I sold mine when they became too valuable to use as wall hangers.

 

[Gargs]

Mike,
I've a "Custom Finn" model made by Rudy and it nearly melts into my fairly large (not huge) hand. I held the same model in their shop not too long ago and ditto. The Custom Brass models do not have the hook at the end, and neither does the 21A Sticker. The problem is the shop is back-ordered and to get one and then have to return it would be a pain (they do market on E-Bay - though I've not checked that out). I carry and use the Steelhead and it fits nicely. I gave one to my friend and fishing partner and he uses it all the time and his hand is smaller than mine, so I figure it's a pretty flexible design. The smoke jumper is a 3 finger knife, although Mike Hangas (Vic, the owner's son and Rudy's grandson, who makes knives with his brother Mark and also handles the business end of things) skinned an elk with it not all that long ago.
Also remember they can do a custom handle for you (they made one for Howie Long once) that'll be sure to fit your hand!
Cheers,
Steve