Suggestions for Fixed EDC in desert southwest

[lagarto]

Hello All,
My family is planning a trip to the Death Valley, Red Rocks and Valley of Fire State/National park areas for the christmas holidays. We've got most of the gear we need, but I was wondering if anyone could suggest what they think is a good fixed blade to have on my belt for edc. I've got several Reeves, and am seriously considering the Aviator, though I also am thinking of the Mountaineer II. Beyond that I have a swamp rat M4 Little Mischief, CRKT M60, SOG SEAL Team Elite, Busse ASH I, Benchmade Nimravus and Fixed Presidio and Blackwater Knives Fixed blade with the sawback made by Benchmade. It would be used for general every day camp chores, and as an emergency survival knife. Any advice is much appreciated, as I've never been to the southwest before.


Lagarto

 

[Gautier]

Well, there isn't really a whole lot of cutting that needs to be accomplished out here that couldn't be done with a good stout pocket knife or a simple 4" fixed blade. Camp chores, specifically kitchen duty, might call for something a little longer or thinner though depending on what you're doing.
So, I'd say it all comes down to personal preference and how much weight you want to carry. Personally, I carry a Fallkniven F1 and have never needed anything more in the desert, in fact, my Victorinox Farmer is usually about all I need. About the only thing to worry about is having enough water while you're out here. It may not be hot right now, but sources of potable water are few and far between, so having extra is worth the weight.
One gallon, per person, per day reserved for 3 days and 5 gallons for the vehicle. Spare fan belts, hoses, a tool kit, and a jerry can of gas all out rank the knife in terms of survival. If you've got all that covered, pile on the cutlery :thumbup:


Gautier

 

[HighDesertWalker]

I live in the desert southwest and tend to favor finishes that blend in with my surroundings. Best full sized desert knife I have is an "ETS" SJTAC with sage blade and tan canvas micarta slabs. My current favorite smaller blade is a BRKT Full Tang Kephart with a natural canvas micarta handle. Different strokes.

Enjoy your trip. :thumbup:

 

[lagarto]

Thanks a lot for the replies folks. I will have a good swiss folder along with whatever fixed comes with me. My brother is bringing his jeep with a lot of H2O and Jerry cans of fuel. He's been in this area a lot so that sort of thing is covered. Should be fun.

Lagarto.