S&W Micarta Bowie

[snwbrdr202]

Hey fellas, hows it going? I was just browsing the other day, and came across this bowie on a random site. Its a Smith & Wesson SWML (Micarta Large). I know S&W's rep as a knife manufacturer is somewhat looked down upon, but this knife is supposedly full tang, 440C, and has micarta handles - looks beautiful to say the least! I just wanted to ask if anyone has one, or if anyone has any input on this bad boy. Thanks fellas.

-Brendan

http://budk.com/images/500/17SWML.jpg

 

[Bob W]

As you probably know, the SW knives are made in China and imported by Taylor Brands.

It doesn't appeal to me visually. But if it appeals to you and you want to give it a try, why not? It's only $40.

If searching for a $40 wall-hanger bowie, just for looking at, here's a Boker Magnum for the same price:
http://budk.com/product.asp_Q_pn_E_17+BOMB565

I also like the Boker Arbolito knives from Argentina. A bit more expensive though.
http://www.sierratradingpost.com/p/,74697_Boker-540-Bowie-Fixed-Blade-Knife-440-Stainless-Steel.html

 

[snwbrdr202]

Hey thanks Bob. Is the Boker also Chinese made steel? Also, do you know if the magnums are full tang or not? That is a beautiful looking knife...I love that Vietnam style bowie.

 

[Bob W]

I ~think~ the Boker Magnum knives are made in China, although I recall some older models being made in Taiwan.

The Vietnam-style Boker bowie is not a full tang - it's full-length but not full width.

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Here are a few more fixed blades in the same price range. Large enough for display, traditional style and materials, and good quality intended for actual use:

Buck 119 Special: http://www.smkw.com/webapp/eCommerc...dsman&Submit.x=0&Submit.y=0&list=10&SKU=BU498

Mora: http://www.ragweedforge.com/SwedishKnifeCatalog.html

Queen hunter in oak: http://www.cumberlandknifeworks.com...28&orderby=product_name&limit=10&limitstart=0

Ka-Bar: http://www.cumberlandknifeworks.com...facturer_id=0&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=28

Case hunters with stacked leather: http://www.casexx.com/DisplayPatternPageFH.asp?PatternAutoID=20