Why is the GEC 47 Viper (swayback?) shaped like it is?

Macchina

Macchina

Joined
Apr 7, 2006
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I have been on the lookout for a #15 Scout Pattern with a Sheepsfoot blade. They are very hard to come by so when I saw the GEC #47 Viper in Green Micarta this morning, I ordered it as a welcome replacement. I have a very hard time resisting Micarta on a working knife, and though the #15 was the perfect shape it was possibly a tad small for me and the Viper will be just right. With the addition of Micarta and a lanyard hole I would be crazy to keep looking for that Scout. I can’t wait to use it and try it out, but for now it looks to me like they installed the blades backwards…

I have never owned anything “Swayback” (if that is the correct term). What is the function of this backward-seeming handle? Does if cut comfortably in the standard grips? I won’t get to see/use this knife until I get back to the States in more than 2 months (!) so any banter or pictures are very welcome…

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No doubt some modern day namby pamby do gooders would call it "ergonomic" or something.

I know I do:thumbup:
 
More comfortable in regular grips than a standard straight handle? I like the sound of that! I was thinking it was for some weird fancy grip.
 
depending on the handle size it is often quite comfortable in a reverse grip for whittling. and certainly not uncomfortable in standard grips.
 
I had one in hand at the GEC factory tour, it felt "different" but after seeing how they are constructed I had to order one myself. I will post a review here for you once I receive it.
 
Mine should be here in a day or two. I've never held a swayback either so ill post up first impressions here when I get it.
 
Wow - that is a nice looking knife. Love the micarta. Love the lanyard tube. Blade finish complements the look as well.

The badge is elegant and understated - but I do have to laugh a little; it looks like the thing you put the toilet paper on to put in the holder. (Don't get me wrong - I think that knife is a drop-dead gorgeous stunning knockout. Love it well.)
 
That's a great-looking knife sir :thumbup:
 
I carry a swayback slipjoint daily, so I will throw in my two cents on this sort of frame.
On pull cuts (peeling apples when holding them) I find it to be the most comfortable and ergonomic handle shape (at least among those I have tried).
On standard (push/front) cuts, it depends alot on the size. For example, my Case SBJ feels a bit small, while my Oeser feels much better. I assume the Viper to be comfortable as well.
Final advice: get one. Worth a try, and very easy to sell in the secondary market if you find out it's not your cup of tea :)

Fausto
:cool:
 
I have one in stag . Very nice knife . Very useful design . Been wanting to pick one up in green micarta .
 

I love this knife! Don't think too much on the handle shape. Its comfortable anyway you hold it. There just a little something special when your doing pull cuts.
 
I have two of the Ivory ones and I really like the pattern. I am greatful that I can pinch the blade open as it is rather stiff otherwise.
 
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