Something like a randall but better steel?

S

STEVENKIM

Joined
Nov 28, 2005
Messages
294
I was really into the Randall model #1. I really like the look of the leather wrapped handles with the brass. Not to mention the blade is beautiful. However, the wait time is forever and it WOULD be nice to have a better steel. Since I do encounter humid conditions, the 0-1 is not a viable option.


Initially I was looking at striders just because their fixed blades are real users.

Can any of you guys suggest a knifemaker that can give me the traditional 6-7 inch fixed blade that can be REALLY used. Like a true old school, no nonsense look. This is more along for military applications. Definitely a hard user, no displays that I'd be afraid to wreck.
 
Both Nick Wheeler and Terri Primos have done something like that for me, but many, many other smiths could do something like that.
 
Worried about rust really. Rainy environments and humid weather is going to be a norm for me. Days in the field without going home. Maybe even less time for maintainence. Perhaps you can educate me on how to prevent the rust in the field? I am a newbie to the steels still, but from what I read, it seems that for randalls, 0-1 is the way to go.

But I am worried about how it seems to rust easily. Does the patina help ward it off?
 
Used to be, Charles Marlowe made a bunch of fixed blades in the Randall style. I remember them specifically, because they looked like Randalls, only they were ground better and had better fit and finish(I say this as a big Randall fan, so don't crucify me). Marlowe uses Paul Bos for his heat treating and made these out of 440C and other stainless steels, which would be ideal for your use. The question remains; can you talk Charles into making one? Contact him and find out. :)
 
I will take a carbon steel blade anyday over a Stainless blade. (and yes, I've owned stainless knives) A carbon blade will not rust with a little care, I like the patina a carbon blade gets with use. I used to be a commercial fisherman in the northern gulf of mex, carried a carbon steel pocket knife and a carbon steel belt knife that saw a lot of use around saltwater, it turned very dark over the years and all I did was rinse in fresh water and dry it off at the end of the day and never put it up wet. I have had a carbon steel pocket knife of one kind or another in my pocket for around 40 years and never had one rust, turn dark yes but not rust. This is just my opinion based on experience, so you stainless guys don't jump on my case OK :p
 
Southeast Asia and such environs are pretty damp places.
I understand that Randall knives hold up pretty well over there.

Still, nothing like a custom--and there are lots of makers out there that fit the bill.
 
STEVENKIM said:
What is the price range? I have never really dealt with custom knives before?
Click to expand...

The price range would be extremely wide, depending on the maker. Delivery time is also a factor to consider. It would be helpful in terms of recommendations if you gave an indication of how much you were willing to spend and how long you were willing to wait. Those two factors alone will narrow things down some.

Roger
 
Your request rang a bell. I sold one to Hoss (rest in peace) a long time ago and remember describing it to him as a "Randall on steroids". Steel is M.S. forged 52100. Will set you back about $750, but it's a great knife and worth it.

Pete
 
Not exactly a Randall, but have you looked at the blades of Bobby Branton or maybe Kevin Hoffmann?
While I can fully understand the stainless thing, I'm not so sure about the leather-handle and a brass guard. I think leather handle is not something you want in a humid enviroment.

Hope this helps.
red mag
 
The leather is because...well I just like it. haha, kind of hypocritical.

sunfishman, your making me re evaluate....

Price range is under 500 and time would be under a year. That be great.
 
IMO, O1 is very good and not much of a problem. I regularly carry and use a Randall Model #3 5" (w/ stacked leather handle) while hunting and camping in all sorts of weather and haven't had issues with it rusting. It doesn't look pristine, but since it's a user, that's just fine.

If you want a Model #1 and can't wait, you can place an order with Nordic Knives and probably get one within a year.

As far as care, I don't do too much. Once the blade has a decent patina built up on it, it seems less likely to rust. Most of the time, my knife rides in it's sheath on the side of a small day pack. If it gets completely soaked, I'll take it out and dry the blade and maybe apply a very light coating of mineral or vegetable oil.

If I'm carrying it on my belt, it is usually shielded from serious rain by my own raingear.
 
You could hot blue the blade on 01 and help beat the rust. I use 01 in my cutting comp. knives and it holds up well.
Reggie
 
There are quite a few makers that will do a Randall style knife for you if that is what you want. There are even more that can make you a darn good 6-7 inch hard use knife for under $500.00. Do you want one that is styled like a Randall Model 1?
 
Greg Covington has made pieces based off the #1. His prices are always reasonable and he's a great guy to deal with. I'm not sure if he's taking orders at the moment, he posts on the forums and is pretty easy to get a hold of.

Matt
 
Try ebay, there are a lot of Randalls listed. You can probably pick up a mdl.1 in SS for around $500.:)
 
Are you by any chance the boxing writer? If so I have a Randall I'll trade you for a press pass to the next card at The Garden...:D
 
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