Rancher's Knife

C

ctompkins

Joined
Jan 15, 2007
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After reading many posts, I have decided on the Benchmade brand to replace my old Case. However, I know next to nothing about the various blade materials (154CM, S30V, etc.), and would appreciate some advice. The knife will need to have about a 3" blade and be used often to cut (castrate) calves. The blade needs to hold an edge for long periods, with a little concern regarding corrosion. However, the blade is cleaned and oiled after each work session. Any suggestions on the best steel for my purpose will be appreciated.
 
S30-v Holds An Edge Exceptionally Well.the Trick Is Not To Let It Get Dull,whenever It Starts To Slow Down A Little,just Give It A Few Swipes On A Ceramic Stick.you Will Be Good To Go. 154cm Should Hold Up Good Enough For You,though.if You Liked The Edgeholding Of The Case You Will Be Very Satisfied With 154cm. Either One Should Fill Your Needs Pretty Good.
 
If you are going to use it extensively for castration, you will want a very fine, thin edge bevel. Of all the Benchmades that I have seen, the one that is best in this regard is the mini-Ritter griptilian. It is available with a 2.9" S30V blade. The regular size Ritter griptilian is probably the same, and it is larger (3.4" blade).
 
lambertiana has a point.

The Ritter Grips and the RUKUS knives have better cutting profiles from the factory than most Benchmades IMO.

I usually reprofile, but on these I was happy with the edges as the came.

Are you looking at a specific model? Lock type? In addition to the 3-inch or less blade length, that is.
 
I have no specific model in mind. About a 3 inch blade seems to work best for me. Thanks for the responses.
 
Lookin' about the Benchmade site, the 14210 looks like a possibility, also. That knife has also gotten good reviews from users.

I haven't done the cutting thing in years (and then but only a few times - enough for me, though :) ), but an issue may be the openess of the lock mechanism. The Axis lock can allow dirt and such in. Cleanable, though.

Not a big liner-lock fan, but I've experienced little trouble with Benchmade's version, so you might also look at the smaller DejaVoo.
 
If I were performing delicate cutting, I think I would want a very fine edge (bet the calf would appreciate it). AUS8 takes a very fine edge and should hold it better than the Case blade that has served well all these years. It is also pretty easy to sharpen. I think Benchmades has some AUS8 offerings in the 3" range.
 
After years of using Case and Eye Brand trappers to cut calves, I finally switched to a Bark River Mini Canadian; the blade's a good size and since it's A2 it holds a really wicked edge. If you're willing to consider a small fixed blade, I think it's a good way to go.

James
 
I personally would give a look to fixed blade - e.g. SOG Field Pup - AUS8, but it has hollow grind 3mm thick blade (=sharp), kraton (=non slippery) handle, and is small enough (4"blade) to comfortable carry. Price is about $40

You can accompany that with e.g. Byrd Cara Cara (under $20) (folder)

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(this is not my pic but gives good idea about dimensions)
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Have you given any thought to the 1095 plain carbon steel knives made by/for "moore maker". Ranchers and cowboys are their niche. The carbon steel knives sharpen up and that type of knife and steel have been working ranches since there have been ranches here in the US.

It's an excellent, non stainless steel that was probably on the knives your grandfather castrated his animals with. Keep it clean and it will last a long, long time. Joe
 
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