The bussekin models in the 7" size are great knives and the king of indestructable. They aren't easy to find, but the scarpyard scrapper 5 will be on the website soon and you will have a unique opportunity to order a super economical busse at the factory price. The window will probably be about 4 weeks to order one. You will probably have to wait 2-3 mo before you get it. But you will have a kick ass knife that is worth every penny and more.
Then there is Rat Cutlery - which I think serves different purposes, but is no less a knife. They have every bit the warrenty that Busse does, and by all accounts of the reviews that are out there live up to the reputaton of toughness that Busse has. The difference is that they are less pricey, though made of 1095 steel (the coating removes maintenance), and can be had immediately from many suppliers. The RC-5 is available in super thick 1/4" steel. My Recommendation would be for the RC-6 thoug. I just think it is a superior knife that optimizes blade length, cutting performance and weight.
Ontario rangers have a good reviewes - Spookypistolero just provided a review of the ranger Afghan model. They are great knives too - more of the 1/4" variety.
Beckers are great knives. The BK7 and BK-9 are perhaps the deal to be had, low cost, full tang, very robust and dependable and good steel. The only think I'm less enthusiastic about them is the plastic handles - although they are essentially bomb proof and yet comfortable.
Notice how all these knives - and most of the recommendations are for tool steels? Yes they require a little bit of maintenance but they are awesome. Their toughness is worth the little bit of fuzz that you take off with a brillo pad after you came home from the wilderness. A little rust fuzz never really hurts the blade and if you are actually using the knife, you find that the rust never has an opportunity to form.
Finally - the fallkniven mentioned. If that corrosion resistance is of absolute importance to you, then this is the knife the A1 or the A2 is mighty fine. Nothing wrong with them. I'm not in love with their plastic handles - but the blade is superb, the steel is superb. It is a great knife.
Good luck.
Bravo-2 - awesome blade as is any 6" and above Bark River...Okay, I'll just shut up now as I haven't really helped you in anyway or form.
Given the blades I have already, I'd re-buy my RC-6 if I lost mine if that makes any sense. Then again, I just might contact a great custom maker. There are a few around you you realize
