SDS Camo Campknife Review

bdws1975

bdws1975

Joined
May 19, 2006
Messages
3,721
Hi all,

I have the privilege of doing a review on another of Shawn's (SDS) knives. Here are the specs on this one:

3/16 inch ATS-34
SS Colby Bolts
SS lanyard tube
black canvas micarta
bead blasted finished with etched camo pattern
OAL = 8 1/4"
blade length (tip to front of handle) = 4 3/8"
blade width (widest point) = 1 3/8"

This is a beast of a knife. It's pretty much perfect for my hands. There's one thing I'm learning with Shawn's knives: they are GOING to be comfortable! He doesn't make a knife without giving a lot of thought to the handle. For long use, you just can't beat it.

I also really like the blade shape. It's got enough belly to be useful for chopping, slicing, etc, but also enough of a point to work for most other chores.

It's also wide enough that being 3/16 inch wide doesn't effect it's cutting ability. I've had knives that were thick but were too 'short' to be good at slicing: they just kind of wedged in and stuck there. Not this one.

In terms of fit and finish, it's top notch. The grind is even, the handles are perfectly sculpted and the weight distribution is spot on. I really can't find anything I don't like about this one.

The sheath, to be sure, is really nice also. wet-formed, leather drop pouch and it fits perfect on the belt. A nice compliment to the blade.

A video is uploading now and will be added once it's done. Yes, I HAD to do a batoning video on this one. It begged for it.

Here are some pics to get you drooling:

SDSskinner021-1.jpg


SDSskinner019.jpg


SDSskinner017.jpg


SDSskinner018.jpg


SDSskinner024.jpg


SDSskinner027.jpg


SDSskinner026.jpg


SDSskinner028.jpg


SDSskinner025.jpg


Shawn (SDS): you did a fantastic job on this one. I love the feel and function and believe it will be very useful both in the kitchen and out and about. Thanks again!

best,
brett
 
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That looks like a lot of knife in a (relatively) small package. Sort of looks squat even though it has the length. It must feel really substantive in the hand. I like that jimping on the spine. Looks like a great knife.

Are the stripes done with a selective patina or is it a coating? (edit oops noticed it was stainless so I guess that is a coating)
 
kgd said:
That looks like a lot of knife in a (relatively) small package. Sort of looks squat even though it has the length. It must feel really substantive in the hand. I like that jimping on the spine. Looks like a great knife.

Are the stripes done with a selective patina or is it a coating? (edit oops noticed it was stainless so I guess that is a coating)
Click to expand...

I believe it's electro etched.

It's got a really nice heft in the hand. I was NOT scared to do what I did in the forthcoming video. I batoned it really well and it was super solid.

nice knife!

Brett
 
The video really gives you a good perspective of the handle dimensions. Looks really comfy. Now you are getting into a delemma - because you own too many good functional knives and won't be able to decide who to take out with you.
 
kgd said:
The video really gives you a good perspective of the handle dimensions. Looks really comfy. Now you are getting into a delemma - because you own too many good functional knives and won't be able to decide who to take out with you.
Click to expand...

tell me about it. That's a good dilemma to have though...:)

The handle is super comfy. That's my favorite aspect so far of his knives.

BRett
 
Thats a great looking knife!
I love the signature throw the knife in the board.

Good job Brett "Very Nice"
 
That's a nice knife! Is the tapered tang to bring the weight forward, or just to lighten up the knife? Anyway it looks like a good all around knife.

The videos are good as usual. It was your Gossman video that sold me the Gossman PSK. And the signature throw at the end is a cool touch.
 
dude.. where can i get in touch with this SDS guy..:eek: that is a cool looking blade.. great design... that's the second knife i've seen of his that i love...:o
 
MRpink said:
That's a nice knife! Is the tapered tang to bring the weight forward, or just to lighten up the knife? Anyway it looks like a good all around knife.

The videos are good as usual. It was your Gossman video that sold me the Gossman PSK. And the signature throw at the end is a cool touch.
Click to expand...

talking to Shawn today, I think a little of both. the center point is right where the end of the micarta and base of the blade meet.

Brett
 
mtnfolk mike said:
dude.. where can i get in touch with this SDS guy..:eek: that is a cool looking blade.. great design... that's the second knife i've seen of his that i love...:o
Click to expand...

SDS is a member here. He's on the list of members SDS.

he's a great guy and super easy to deal with. Plus, he's an okie and that's a plus for me....:)

Brett
 
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