TAK or Master Hunter?

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Neo

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Sep 12, 2002
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They have a similar design. Both around 4.25 -4.50 blade 3/16" thick full flat grind.
The CS Master Hunter in carbon V as a good reputation and the Ontario TAK as a nice micarta handle. I can't decide between these two.
Please don't suggest other knives (although the Howling Rat is also interesting :)) I need input and opinions from you guys.
 
I just got my TAK last week. I love it. A very well made knife and for the price you can't beat it. I did round the handle slabs a bit to fit my hand better. Again for $80.00 thaat was with shipping and tax, you can't beat it. Good luck on your decision.
 
I have used a CS Carbon V Master Hunter in deer season for several years with complete satisfaction and picked up a Howling Rat last year. They are both solid knives with great bang for the buck IMO. I have not handled the TAK. One of the differences in the knives is the handle material. If my experience with the first two knives is any indication, you won't go wrong with either of those. Quite frankly, if I find a TAK at an attractive price, I'll probably pick one up. I like the blade design and handle material.

Having said all of that, I have come to appreciate knives by Dozier, Denning, and some others. I carried a Dozier K1 last deer season. Good luck in your search.
Jim
 
I have both, and have done some comparisons. The main differences are that the TAK is quite a bit heavier, and you can actually do some minor chopping with it. IMHO the MH is not a chopper, if that matters to you. I think most of the weight comes from the fact it has a full tang, and is probably stronger because of it. The MH is a good knife and I have no problems with it. The TAK has a black coating on the blade to reduce corrosion, but it makes the blade difficult to clean (if say you used it to split wood). The MH has a rubberized grip as opposed to the micarta, and the grips do fit the hand quite differently. It probably comes down to how much weight you want on your belt and if you will need to be chopping anything. Also, if you can hold both of them, pick the one that fits your hand best.
 
Thanks for your input.
Is there any significant difference between Carbon V and 1095 carbon steel?
 
I would expect Carbon-V to be a bit more abrasion resistant than 1095 and the 1095 to be a bit tougher. For a hunting knife I would prefer Carbon-V for a chopping knife I would prefer 1095. I think the handle, blade, and guard configuration of the MH is top knotch for a hunting knife.
 
I've used a Master Hunter on deer for about 8 years now, it's great for holding an edge and the handle is good for not slipping when wet ! Best deer knife i've ever used, just keep the blade wiped off and oiled. :)
 
I’ll go for the master hunter.
I won’t use it for chopping and it’s a bit smaller than the TAK.
I also prefer the non-coated blade.
Thank you all for the info.
 
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