What is a bird and trout knife?

[Clint Simpson]

I know that there is a category for Bird and Trout knives in some “contests“ (for lack of a better word), but what is it exactly?

What are the characteristics and qualifications?

What is it used for? I have a guess, but I wonder if there is more than the obvious.

Thanks

 

[mtnbkr]

Originally posted by Clint Simpson
I know that there is a category for Bird and Trout knives in some “contests“ (for lack of a better word), but what is it exactly?

What are the characteristics and qualifications?

What is it used for? I have a guess, but I wonder if there is more than the obvious.

Thanks

To me, a Bird and Trout knife is a small fixed blade with a 2"-3" blade. They're typically smaller in build (thiner stock, thinner handle) and relativly short overall. The idea is that the knife is to be small enough to easily handle small game like game birds or fish (larger blades get in the way). They look perfect for small mammals like squirrel and rabbit as well. Due to their size, they also make good "woods walking" knives.

Chris

 

[Keith Montgomery]

That is a very good description Chris. Here is a small picture of a nice Bird and Trout knife by a local maker by the name of Matt Harildstad.

 

[bandaidman]

like many traditional knives there are no hard and fast rules but in general "i know one when i see it"

in general they are small knives 3-4" or less. i prefer a 2.5 -3" one for use on smaller fish (ie 5lbs or less). i dont fillet most small fish and use the knife for gutting and removing the gills only right after i catch them. smaller is better here, esp with wet/ slimy hands. if i do fillet it is with a proper fillet knife at home or camp.

while there are many single edged versions, i always prefer a double edge one and consider it more appropriate for the task. the top edge has a wider bevel and is useful for coarser tasks like chopping small bones or the spine.

a single guard is common but not required ...

a leg notch is nice, esp if the blade is single edged


look at the randall model 8 ... it is a nice example of the genre ... it is a 4" blade which is a little larger than i like but they have an excellent feel