The Least Original Thread Ever: General Use Fixed Blade

B

B.F.U

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Jan 1, 2013
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I know this has been asked a thousand times. I've read many threads on the subject. However, I think it would be helpful for me to list what I want out of a knife so I can see what you more knife-worldly people would suggest. Also, I think for everyone else it's always a new experience to give your opinions.

So, I want a fixed blade knife. I had a cold steel kobun that I beat on and used and didn't care about, but eventually broke it. I also have a russian fixed blade my father gave me, but I don't like using it because I worry about it too much. I was something that is reasonably priced (0-150, but preferably <125) but that I can trust. I will keep it in my truck for emergencies. I would not mind exposed tang as a makeshift hammer/glassbreaker/blunt-force-object. I don't want to have to constantly worry about it rusting, but I don't mind carbon steels (I would keep it at least somewhat regularly clean and oiled). I prefer some belly with a usable tip, but I would want a strong all around blade which I wouldn't worry about snapping. However, I don't want something that feels like a slab of steel: I don't want something that you look at and think "wow, that is a thick blade," I don't buy into that. I'm not gonna chop down trees with it, but I'd still like to be able to lop a small branch off without worry. I would like a blade between 4.5 and 9 inches, preferably in the 5-7 range. I would like a steel that will hold an edge and is tough, but that can be sharpened (I'm pretty ok at sharpening). I do not like thick handles at all, I like to get a good purchase on the handle and I have medium sized hands (I guess, either that or I just prefer thin handles), and I really appreciate good ergonomics. Finally, I would appreciate the knife coming from a company with good customer service, if at all possible (I am open to customs or semi-customs, in that price range).

Now, as I said, I know this has been done a thousand times. I also know that my description was really long and few people have probably made it to this sentence. However, I would really really appreciate any input what-so-ever. I love how much I can learn from this site, and I appreciate all of your vast knowledge. If anyone's made it this far, thanks. I look forward to your suggestions.

ALLHSS
 
Welp, even in that long post I forgot a few things. I will want to use the knife while messing around in the woods and while serious camping. I would also like it to be sensible enough for food prep. Although not as often, I would also prefer it be at least capable in an emergency of skinning etc.
 
Look at Esee. Great bang for the buck knives and an incredible company with the best warranty for the price. I just got the 4 and it is great. It may not be long enough for you though but the handles are thin and quite comfortable. The 5 I think you would find too thick and the handles uncomfortable but for an emergency knife to keep in a car, it fits the bill (I also have the 5). The 6 might be it. I don't have it yet but the length would be great. Don't know about the handles. Also look at BK. They are tough and at a great price point.
 
As you already know, this is one of those that is tough to answer. Here is my two cents based on reading many ...many ....many threads like this :P. Keep in mind, I do not own any of these knives (yet), but have seen them recommended countless times.

My first instinct off of what you posted is to go with the ESEE 6. It's not a "slab" of steel, the warranty doesn't get any better than lifetime, and its in your perfect size and price range.

Next choice if you want to go a bit cheaper, I don't think many would steer you away from a Becker. Probably the BK7.

Both of those are carbon steel, so as another choice, if you want to stretch your budget just slightly you could go with a Fallkniven S1.

Hope this helps.
 
a lot of people will recommend ESEE and Becker, I only have experience with ESEE. The steel is 1095 do it can rust on you, but they come with a terrific coating. The handles are on the thinner and flatter side, which sounds like a plus for you, but some people don't like.

I have the 3-Mil model, which has a sharpened glass breaker pommel, but it's a bit shorter and thinner than you want. Their blades have a nice blend of good belly and tip for general outdoors and utility. And they have one of the best warranties in the business.

It sounds like their 4 or 6 model would suit you well. I would avoid the 5 personally unless you like really over built knives that give up a lot of cutting performance.

here's my 3 with stripped coating on the blade.
003.jpg
 
I have actually been leaning towards the ESEE lately. At first I was hesitant because they are pricey, and for some reason I was under the impression that they had thick handles. But after reading more on here I am leaning towards the ESEE 6. Is there a MIL model of the 6? I guess I could go look on the site, ha.

I have also been contemplating the ontario RAK. I have seen some less than enthusiastic reviews however.

Moreso, I have almost purchased the cold steel SRK. What do you ESEE guys think of it?

I like the Beckers' styles, sizes, blades, etc a lot. However, I have heard quite a few people say that theirs are some of the thickest handles around. Any experience with that in this thread?
 
Like others have mentioned, ESEE and Becker would be great choices. The handle slabs on Becker's might be a bit thick for your taste, but that's a quick fix since they aren't glued. Both brands coat their blades so rust won't be much of an issue (you just need to protect the edge). Beckers have a pouch on the sheath where you can keep a small sharpener and some oil (even a full size multitool fits). ESEE sheaths are better (at least I prefer them), but this advantage would be negated since you're not going to be carrying the knife.

Cold Steel has some pretty tough knives that would work well for your intended purpose. SRK, Recon Scout, Master Hunter and even the Bushman (at about $20-25, you can get a couple). Out of those, the Master Hunter and the clip point Bushman are my favourite. My MH is an old Carbon V model, but the current VG-1 is probably just as good (and won't give you problems with corrosion).

Moras are worth mentioning, even if they are a bit too small. Some of the newer models have thicker heavier duty blades than the older ones (I noticed it on my Bushcraft Survival) and can take quite a beating. I use them often at my family's ranch and have no complaints. Instead of getting a single heavy knife, you can get a Mora and a machete (or a Condor Golok). You'll be well under your budget and you'll have better performance.
 
I really think you'll do best with a small group of tools - no one knife is best for your needs. You can do it and stay within your budget, easily.

Lightweight Mora: Hiking, backpacking, food prep, fishing.
Small hatchet: Car camping and cabin/stationary backcountry living.
Condor: Durable emergency tool for the truck.

If you were to pick only one of these, I'd say the Mora. It may not chop down trees, but it'll excel at most everyday blade tasks.
 
If you have a habit of breaking knives, maybe sharpen a pry bar..... Otherwise, look at Esee for the warranty, as it appears you'll need it. Good customer service abounds with most companies these days if you're reasonable with your expectations. Still, most have limits in abuse vs use.
 
Bob W said:
I really think you'll do best with a small group of tools - no one knife is best for your needs. You can do it and stay within your budget, easily.

Lightweight Mora: Hiking, backpacking, food prep, fishing.
Small hatchet: Car camping and cabin/stationary backcountry living.
Condor: Durable emergency tool for the truck.

If you were to pick only one of these, I'd say the Mora. It may not chop down trees, but it'll excel at most everyday blade tasks.
Click to expand...

What are you refering to with the Condor emergency tool? I do realize that a knife won't do everything. That's why I say I won't chop trees down, etc. (I even think batoning is ridiculous. Blasphemy, I know. Also I have a mora and am not a big fan. Just don't like anything but the price and how sharp it came. Blasphemy, I know.) But I just want a knife that if I could only have one thing I wouldn't feel uncomfortable just having it.

I have my hatchet, the russian fixed blade, a little saw, and a spring glassbreaker that I carry in my truck right now. I'm just looking for a trusty all around fixed blade, as I think a fixed blade is the most universal tool (if done right).
 
Any thoughts on the Schempp Rock? I know it's got a thin blade, but it's just cool.
 
Sog Seal Pup Elite. the blade length is just under 5 and it doesnt have a pomell but its decently priced and the aus8 holds a good edge and can be sharpend easily. plus a8 isnt as brittle/rigid as other steels so it takes a lot more to snap.
 
goodeyesniper said:
I would avoid the 5 personally unless you like really over built knives that give up a lot of cutting performance.

here's my 3 with stripped coating on the blade.
003.jpg
Click to expand...

So what about the Ontario version of the 5? It looks (to my untrained eye) to be a very similar knife with the more useful ffg. Is the warrenty and quality control the advantage of the ESEE?

I have to say, that's a nice looking knife. Maybe I'll downsize.
 
My favorite (and many others) in that size is a Swamp Rat RMD (RatManDu) Very comfortable in hand, Micarta scales that you'll never have to worry about and a full tang. Swamp Rat's take on 52100 with a proprietary heat treat- tough knife that really holds an edge, and unless you go for a Limited Edition model, the blade is coated to protect against rust- just the thing for a truck knife.

In stainless, I really like Fallknivens- pick the size you like best- they also hold up well and feel great in the hand.
 
MVF said:
My favorite (and many others) in that size is a Swamp Rat RMD (RatManDu) Very comfortable in hand, Micarta scales that you'll never have to worry about and a full tang. Swamp Rat's take on 52100 with a proprietary heat treat- tough knife that really holds an edge,
Click to expand...

Oh man, I just looked it up and I'm looking it a lot. Is the swamp rat website the best place to get it, or are there cheaper options?
 
MVF said:
My favorite (and many others) in that size is a Swamp Rat RMD (RatManDu) Very comfortable in hand, Micarta scales that you'll never have to worry about and a full tang. Swamp Rat's take on 52100 with a proprietary heat treat- tough knife that really holds an edge,
Click to expand...

Oh man, I just looked it up and I'm looking it a lot. Is the swamp rat website the best place to get it, or are there cheaper options?
 
ALLHSS said:
What are you referring to with the Condor emergency tool?
Click to expand...

Oh, just any knife from Condor, whatever your preference. I like the Bushlore and Bushcraft Basic. You might prefer something larger like the Golok Survival Knife or Bolo Machete, or perhaps something more mobile and pocket-able like the Sapiens or one of the neck knives.
 
Guess I'm on the ESSE bandwagon as well. I was a little surprised you said you think they were pricey. I've got one (a 4) and I think of it as a real good value. REAL lifetime warranty. Really. Shop around a little, you can find good prices on them.
 
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