Steel Type and Camping Knife

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Hello everyone :). Hope everyone's Friday morning is going well so far! I know I could do a LOT of research on this question but to be honest, I don't have a lot of time at the moment as I am currently in the middle of the college swing. I don't get on here much, especially to ask questions, but I just want to thank everyone who posts in general and for promoting this awesome community. I hope to become more involved as life/time allows :). Oh, a little personal tidbit for anyone who's interested. I'm studying psychology, hoping to become a Christian counselor (NOT a nouthetic counselor) to help people dealing with anxiety disorders, addictions, and general life hardships. Anyway, on to the question...

I am likely going on a camping trip in the next month or so. I'm not very knowledgeable about fixed blade knives and the different steel types that make up that realm. Honestly, this knife will most likely not get a lot of use but I would like for it to be more than willing and able in a crunch. It will probably just be used for chopping some branches and making kindling for a fire. I want something of good quality and would like for it to be around 5-9 inches, while hopefully not being over $60.

I would GREATLY appreciate suggestions for a particular knife as well as some pointers about what knife characteristics are good for camping activities (blade shape, steel type, grind type etc.). Also, what companies are for fixed blades and which should I stay away from?

Thank you all in advance for the responses!! I'm looking forward to your suggestions and education you will be sharing! :D God bless and stay sharp!
 
I would consider a Bucklite Max knife which is actually under $40. http://www.buckknives.com/index.cfm?event=product.detail&productID=3675 Here's a review as well http://www.woodsmonkey.com/index.ph...bucklite-max-review&catid=34:knives&Itemid=55

I'm not saying it's the best knife ever for what you need it's just what I would take with me on the scenario you're describing for both reliability, price, etc. In addition to my Swisschamp which I always have this is a great compliment for larger cutting tasks.

Steel Type is 420HC btw.
 
My 2 cents; get a SOG Seal Pup Elite. AUS8 will be tough enough/hold an edge for the duration of your camp trip, and corrosion resistant and the knife isn't some 16oz beast that is pulling your pants down. 3/16" steel stock is plenty beefy enough and you get a high quality nylon sheath all for around your budget price.
 
cards94 said:
stainless steel mora companion
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This^^^

Very sharp and easy to sharpen in the field. Plus you'll have money left over for a Swiss Army knife and a case of beer.
The whole Mora line presents exceptional value and performance for the money. You really don't need to spend a lot to get a good sharp knife. I prefer carbon steel myself but the stainless is much easier to maintain. The Mora robust is another nice one you might want to check out. I have many knives, including customs, and my Moras still accompany me on most trips into the bush.

Oh and you can trust me I'm a masters level family therapist.:)
Good luck with your studies. It's a noble profession and there is no shortage of people out there that need help.
 
I like carbon steel for my camping knives. Force a patina on them and good to go. Easy to sharpen in the field and tough for hard use. Shiny ain't my thing. If you want something that is a good value in carbon steel, look at the Condor line of knives. They aren't pretty, but will do the job well. If you want to step it up, look at ESEE knives or alike.. if you want to go next level, look at Bark River, Fiddleback Forge or hit up the "Knife Makers For Sale" section. Lots of guys on here make some true amazing blades in all different price ranges. Help out a fellow member when you can, and get some special in the process.
 
Hawk45 said:
I like carbon steel for my camping knives. Force a patina on them and good to go. Easy to sharpen in the field and tough for hard use. Shiny ain't my thing. If you want something that is a good value in carbon steel, look at the Condor line of knives. They aren't pretty, but will do the job well. If you want to step it up, look at ESEE knives or alike.. if you want to go next level, look at Bark River, Fiddleback Forge or hit up the "Knife Makers For Sale" section. Lots of guys on here make some true amazing blades in all different price ranges. Help out a fellow member when you can, and get some special in the process.
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i like carbon also but for camping, i just think the stainless is theway to go. from wood and other cutting tasks, to using it for food prep or cleaning fish. just wash off. carbon you have to bring some mineral oil with you along for the trip. not a big deal but stainless is easier for camping imo.
 
northwalesBill said:
Is the Mora Companion good for batoning? Just curious
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As long as you don't baton knots or twisted grain and you keep to kindling size wood(which should be done with any knife IMO) a mora would be fine. I use mine all the time to baton with. If you want something a little more robust you might want to check out the Condor line. They have full tangs and are a good value for the money.

As far as type of knife it really is pretty wide open to whatever your preference is. Scandi's work, convexed knives work, and so do flat grinds. Steel is also up to you as far as what you want. High end steels are great but basic carbon steel is still pretty good for this use. Condor uses cheap 1075 and they work pretty well. There's only a few things that I would look out for;

Small/skinny handles. They carry great but when carving wood they can cause pain in the webbing of your hand or you'll notice your hand starting to cramp up. Thick and oval is what you should look for in a handle. The Mora is a good example of what to look for.

Thickness. If you go with scandi I highly suggest one that is 3/32" thick or less. 1/8" scandis work well on wood but really kinda suck for any other purpose IME. If you go with a flat or convexed grind I'd say stick to 1/8"-3/16".
 
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