What to buy from the Survivor Starter

JJ_Colt45 · Mar 22, 2015

Im definately wanting to buy some knives from the Survive Starter, but Im a bit unsure exactly which ones. I am thinking one of the 4.1 or 4.7 and either the 5.1 or the 7/7. My problem is Ive never been able to hold any in my hand so Im going to ask for some input and advice.

I am leaning towards the 4.1 and a 7/7 right now ... but Im not sure about the 7/7 over the 5.1 or maybe even the 6 when its availble.

So any experiences good or bad with any of these or pictures comparing any or all of these would be greatly appreciated. Curious on balance and how they carry if there is a very noticable weight difference?

I am going to purchase at least 2 perhaps a third if theres enough difference in the models.

and thank you in advance for any input

Rasco · Mar 22, 2015

The 4.1 is such a geat all-arounder, you should probably get one of those regardless.
As for the others, that's really up to you and how much blade you think you'll need for the task in mind.

Here's a pic of the 4.1 next to the 5.1

Maybe Guy or someone can chime in here, but I believe the handles on the 5.1 and 7/7 are pretty much the same dimensions.

JJ_Colt45 · Mar 22, 2015

thank you for the picture comparison. I am pretty sure one will be the 4.1 but Im unsure as to which larger knife I want to pair it with. I dont really have anything in that 7/7 area so am leaning that way... I have several 4" to 5" blades and have a few larger 9" to 12" ... just not sure if the 7/7 is enough larger then the 5.1 or 6 to justify it over one of those. And the ergos of the 7/7.

Silver Needle · Mar 22, 2015

Check out old threads here for the knives you're considering and do some googling. Rasco was helpful and there's more good comparison pics out there. Now that I say that I realize any pics out there are of the old versions. Starter knives and the future 6 will be updated.

From what you've said, I'd suggest the 4.1 and 7/7. They are different enough from eachother and they'll fill in gaps with what you already have.

I'm almost positive that the old versions of the 5, 5.1, 6 and 7/7 had the same handles. We'll see what the future holds!

Hard Knocks · Mar 23, 2015

Since you're pretty much settled on the 4.1 for your smaller blade, one thing that may help you decide on the larger blade is whether you will baton or chop more with the large knife. The 5.1 will not be as efficient a chopper as a 7/7, not that you can't chop with it, but it simply won't have the heft of the bigger blade if chopping is your preferred method. Both will baton fine.

In my opinion, the 4.1 and 5.1 are just too close to pair together, and can be stand-alone blades in their own right. I'd say your instincts are right, and that the 4.1 would pair better with the 7/7.

JJ_Colt45 · Mar 23, 2015

thanks for the input I think the 4.1 and 7/7 are definite buys ... and I may throw a 5.1 in there also. I have several that fall in that range size wise but all are 1095 or A2.
I think something in that range with 3V would be a great addition also.

bladeninja · Mar 23, 2015

Here's a comparison of an Esee 5 which is very close to the size of a 5.1 next to my 4.1.
As stated earlier, go with a 4.1 and a 7/7. That should cover your needs. I'll be getting a 7/7 as well thus eliminating the Esee altogether.

ManOfSteel89 · Mar 27, 2015

I've handled all of the available SURVIVE! Knives other than the GSO 10 and I can tell you that I don't like choils so maybe I'm biased but I really prefer the 6 over the 7/7 and the 5.1. I ordered the 12 in the preorder and plan to order a 4.7 soon.

Brummie · Mar 27, 2015

I'm trying to see if I justify getting up to $1000 for the additional discount. I'm thinking a 12, 7/7 and 4.7, and a second of either of those last two (on which I will grind a clip point). Waiting for renderings of the 7/7 to decide whether two of those or two of the 4.7.

JJ_Colt45 · Mar 27, 2015

I was wanting a 6 but since they arent offered in the Starter I thought Id move up to the 7/7. I know Ill order a 4.1 and Im also leaning towards a 5.1 ... but wanting a little larger blade the 6 or 7/7.
I dont mind a choil in fact on some knives I prefer it so that wont keep me from buying any certain model.
I have been wanting to try a Survive and with the addition of torx fasteners and the Starter program I think its time. Its just hard to not want to buy one of everything from the looks and all the good Ive heard from those I know that have used them.