uber fixed blades

[spyken]

lately, i've been considering getting a 4-5inch fixed blade as the ultimate blade for both utility & tactical purposes. The blade is for real use (not display) in both wet and dry environments (it would be a bonus if it would double up as my expedition/paddling knife, but not necessary). My budget is $250 and below (but really want it to be worth the price). I've been looking seriously at

(1) Bob Dozier - general / personal utility / river guide;
(2) Trace Rinaldi - LEO, Chimera & Spook;
(3) Mike Snody - Japanese style blades (but I worry about the cord wrap rotting under wet n humid conditions);
(4)Ryan Wilson - model 2 and model 8 fighter
(5)Neil Blackwood - customised neck ninja;

Would appreciate all your views on, esp:
(i) edge sharpness (A vs B is possible, or pegged to RJ Martin's legendary edges )
(ii) waiting times;
(iii) ergonomics and weight;
(iv) practicality and useablity;
(v) any other similar makers/knives out there?

Does Bob Dozier do G10 scales (my preferred). Any ideas how micarta compares to G10 in both wet and dry conditions?

Thanks!

 

[spyken]

bttt

anyone? thanks.

 

[Dr.Lathe]

Spyken,

Thanks for considering one of my knives. I just recieved a Matrix from Trace, FANTASTIC little knife I dont' think Stellite or Talonite will in your price range. I would suggest S30V for hard and wet use.


Neil

 

[grouse hunter]

SPYKEN,

I am a big fan of fixed blades and spend most of my free time paddeling,hunting,and fishing.I have been on a quest for the PERFECT fixed blade for my needs since returning from an annual weeklong hunting trip last fall.My goal was to have this knife before leaving for the trip this fall.

I have purchased a number of good to great quality fixed blades in my quest.All of which will do the job required....but I was looking for THE PERFECT one for my needs.

Some of those I tried (purchased) before finding what I was looking for:
Grohmann #1& #3
Fallkeniven F1
AG Russell Bird&Trout & Deerhunter (AU8)(new offerings in VG10&D2 were not offered at the time...darn.)
Frosts Moras ,3 different models(great value)

I have accomplished my goal!!!!

Hunting,fishing,camping: Doug Mondt GMC Hunter CPM10V ($225)& Dozier Slim Outdoorsman D2 ($150)

Paddeling: Spyderco Moran DP VG10 ($60)

Your needs and tastes may be different than mine, but this is the end of my quest and my results may save you some time AND money.( I did have fun though, and those "also rans" will still get some use as they are all great knives...just not PERFECT for my needs.

Doug Mondt( 3 mo.lead time)may have changed www.mondtknives.20m.com
Dozier AG Russell (in stock at the time)

Best Regards,
GH

PS I am a firm believer that 4" is the IDEAL fixed blade length... a saw or hatchet is the tool if you need more.