Seth and Thomas you guys can be very proud to produce one of the best videos I have ever seen. The key ingredient is the friendly and close approach. Just one word FANTASTIC
Good job Seth and Thomas. Well considered/thoughtful commentary and definitely made me want to buy every knife on that table. I appreciated the video and would like to see more! Whether that's Seth doing hands on survival skill learning or just getting to do some hands on shopping. Keep up the great work.
Great video. I learned a lot! The SRK is my choice as a field knife and served me well over multiple deployments carried on my person. For “survival” my choice is an original, milspec, MOD-issue Kukri. It is just a super choice for all the survival functions cited in the video. I had one available for multiple deployments and often had it on a pack or in a vehicle rather than on my person. That knife mix worked well in a wide range of situations. My EDC is a Benchmade Barrage. It took a few years to come to these choices, but this is what worked for me in the military and law enforcement..
Great choice. I spent years modding my BK9 to improve performance. It was great as is but I kept tweaking it for fun and purpose as the years went on. It's now pretty much unrivaled in my collection.
Good choice. The BK9 is the one knife I feel can do it all. I usually bring a few knives to camp with but the one thing constant has always been the BK9. It makes a good chopper, takes place of a light axe at times, fillet a fish with and at the end of the night, act as a fire poker. Wipe it in the morning and do it all over again. Stock grip is ok, but a wrap of hockey tape on it makes it feel perfect.
Try the Terava Skrama 240 or the Terava Jaakaripuuko 140. Awesome Finnish knives for a good price with amazing leather sheaths that all come with danglers. The Skrama 240 runs for $115 with leather sheath. The Jaakaripuuko 140 for $89. Amazing knives. If I had not gotten already some knives I’d get both of them. They are an amazing combo. Terava is also a really cool surplus shop.
good choice on the BK9 .. I have chopped down a couple of 8 inch pines up in Idaho ... my cousin was quite surprised that while he was sleeping I was starting on a log cabin ... even after those 2 trees .. it would still shave hair on my arm.
Cut 4 ft of paracord. (Be sure to burn the ends so it doesn’t fray). Run the paracord through the belt loop of your BK-9 sheath and tie it around your waist secured with a square knot. It will beat a dangler every time. It will move out of your way and you can readjust it easily. This is the way SAS survival expert Lofty Wiseman carried his parangs.
Wow. I do basically the same thing to certain fixed-blades to have a more versatile carry and to get outa my way when forced with climbing rock obstacles. Ive got "loops and line" on several fixed-blade rigs, and i just like it. Starting doing that 40-something years ago, and still do when i go thru certain terrains.. i've been messin about in forests and tough terrains for over 50 years. I respect whatever knife i use, found out not to chop with my field knife like this fella has been saying. Get a small saw or hand axe. Treat 'em like your best girl. Ive used the same field knife over 40 years, and, as with any knife, i dont try to see if i can destroy it like some do. I try to respect whatever limits it may have by having amother tool if plausible that suits heavier tasks. I've never truly believed in "only one knife" principle. Through the decades, ive up to 4-6 knives for different tasks, plus short machetes, and sometimes a hand axe, not on a regular basis. Sorry to ramble. But glad to see someone else use the "loop and line" on the knives. Safe travels. Huckster
Smart choice. Bk9 is legendary. As you develop your skill set, the bk9 will keep up with you. For my Army survival training, I had a Kabar. On our kits, we have bk9s. I do have the Srk, cold steel trailmaster, and microtech curahee. I recommend a good pair of leather gloves and the benchmade Keychain sharpener. Also, take a multitool and a op folder. Oh no, two more shows. Lol. The FM army survival manual is the Bible for survival manuals.
BK9 is a terrific knife. It has stood the test of time, and is still on that table for a reason. The same is true of the Esee 6. The Esee, paired up with an axe and saw, would serve you well in the woods when you start doing survival type tasks. Good luck with your adventures.
The Fallkniven might surprise you. I find my F1's handle to be very comfortable. Also, they are specifically designed to work with gloves, which is a good idea in a survival situation.
I lived in the woods for 8yrs f1 was my belt knife and bark river tracker for my heavier tasks. F1 is an amazing knife,rather surprised how well it did.
I'd love to see more videos like this. I'm a big fan of the Ka-Bar BK2 (after replacing the scales with Micarta), Terava Skrama 240, and Joker Nomad, but I love LT Wright knives. I have a Cold Steel SRK and it's an outstanding garden knife.
To be honest I am never going to need a big knife for survival in the UK, however I do have a few large choppers I have used while camping for splitting kindling etc that would be because for some people, collecting blades is what you do. In reality what I use most these days is a small axe on my allotment and in my woodland for hedgelaying, limbing and snedding, and chopping logs and branches, I could actually do most of what those big knives do with my vintage Elwell slasher as it can cut deep it's like an old English equivalent of a parang, but mainly it is a tool for brush clearance not a woodsman's constant companion and comes out when needed like my scythe and hedge trimmer. For actual survival I think a small axe, a folding saw and a puuko will do you. Can't think of much such a combination can't do cos in reality you are not going to be felling mighty redwoods are you? Another thing too I suppose, I am into the aesthetics of knives, I like hand crafted handles made from natural materials and leather sheaths, generally that I have made myself because that is all part of the fun, there is nothing more satisfying than using a knife with a handle that has been crafted just for you and feels absolutely right.
I did this same exercise and ended up with the cold steel drop forged Survivalist. It’s about a pound of 52100 carbon steel, but it’s well balanced and capable of performing every camp task under the sun. I honestly don’t think I could break this thing if I tried. Only drawback was the rear cross guard, but with some light modification, it magically disappeared. Great knife, better value, “Drop Forged Survivalist”
Pity you did not consider the CS Trail Master! I have one and it excludes two important aspects. The cross guards are fine and my San Mai III version does not corrode and is super tough, full convex grind. It's a superbly balanced knife (like the Survivalist)! Check it out - but I warn you, you might just end up buying one!
@@billvan5219, I got curious and watched a couple minutes of a video with him. I can't put my finger on why, but he immediately rubbed me the wrong way.
Go with Esee Junglas exact same size as the BK9, but if you want micarta and kydex on your BK9 will be cheaper in the long run comparatively to go with the Esee. 130 for Kabar + Kydex + handles will be well over 200 where the esee Junglas already comes with those options for the same or less.
While I did go with an BK7 and did go with the scale upgrade and really liked that combo, but when I went for a bigger blade, I went the same way you suggest and really am pleased and highly recommend it .
your analytical selection is what I am 100% onboard... there so many awesome knives from the table but the Ka-Bar is the tried and true survival for chopping, doing some bushcraft task, and survival task... awesome selection!!!
Great video dude!! Very informative and I think this is the best video you've done so far!! Definitely can tell the passion you have for this topic. I really appreciate and enjoyed your presentation!! ✌️
I have the Becker BK 9 and the Fallkniven A1. Either one would have my full confidence, but the Fallkniven is my One knife that stays in my pack. A tip for the BK 9: Take an hour and stipple the scales with the smallest tip on a wood burner, and then sand the stipples down to your preference. I have done a few different patterns. It really improves the grip on all the Becker knives.
Calling 9260 a tool steel is really a misnomer. It is more accurate to call it a spring steel. It’s almost like someone took 1065 and added a huge amount of silicon to it, taking what was already a tough steel and making it even more impact resistant. Sword makers like Paul Chen use 9260 to make long but exceedingly strong katanas from it. APOC tools don’t have a great deal of exposure yet, but among those who use them, they have earned a great deal of trust.
I have a bunch of blades made from it myself. Small black Smith, friend, and I can't say enough about them. His artistic ability to make the weapon/tool to fit what I wanted, and the durability of them is insane. At first I bought them to have them in my collection and one for use, now I have many to pass to my children, I can't see many blades holding up like they do and if my kids need a blade i want it to he something I trust for them as well, not to mention each was made special for each one of them , with touches that fit their personality.
@@beentheredonethat5908 Yeah, 9260 is great for making strong, tough blades. The only real downside to it (as long as you don't need it to be stainless, but even then 9260 isn't that bad with rust) is that the large amount of silicon means forging 9260 is somewhere between very difficult and almost impossible. If you're going to forge a blade rather than grind/stock removal a blade, you're better off with one of the simple 10xx series steels, or better yet, something like 80CrV2. However, for just grinding out a tough, dependable large blade, 9260 is great stuff.
@@ap0lmc Certainly not. 5160 is similar, yet very different from 9260 at the same time. Chemically, 5160 has small amounts of chromium, while 9260 has none whatever. However, the big difference is in the silicon. While 5160 has a very small amount on silicon, 9260 has significantly more. The higher levels of silicon are a real impediment to forging. In addition, 5160 is much more forgiving in the heat treatment. With 9260 it's much harder to get a good quench and temper. APOC and Cheness are about the only producers who consistently get good HT with 9260. Much of Asia (especially Nepal) not to mention the rest of the world is filled with smiths getting marvelous performance with 5160.
@@random_eskimo_in_the_rockies thanks. What about Cheness swords are they any good? Some people said they're inconsistent and others love them. I heard they're out of business.
I have the Cold Steel knives dropped forged, both the Hunter and Survivalist. Have used them both for chopping, splitting and general use. Not sure I could break either of there. Had a ‘survival’ knife from another manufacturer that broke in half splitting wood once. Prefer to carry an axe or tomahawk for basic splitting now. A little extra weight but I don’t have to worry about my main fixed blade anymore. Great video. A few temptations but satisfied (for now).
Love that LT. I have a small LT Wright in AEB-L. Best edge I have in my collection. All the chatter about particle metal but it's edge is wonderfully smooth and sharp! It's also the knife people gravitate to when they visit my house.
Good knife. BK7 was my camp knife from the days when they were made by Camillus. The stock handle is ergonomically perfect IMHO. My advice is a couple of wraps with grip tape around the handle. In wet hands it's like a wet bar of soap. I ended up making my own handle slabs from green canvas Micarta. Now they're offered and worth the extra purchase.
On your journey, do yourself a favour and make a turn towards Japan. That's where the Cold Steel Trail Master (San Mai III version) is hand-crafted in a full convex grind blade. It'll knock your socks off!
Great selection of fixed blades. I only have a few fixed blades in my collection and thinking about something in this category and size range. The Joker is the one I would choose.
Good choice….I have the BK 9, but my actual knife that rides in my backpack is a BK7, modified, micarta scales, no traction coating, and a kydex sheath! It does all I need it to do!
Joker is phenomenal. They are offering a great deal of value for the money. My favorites they offer are the Canadian and the Nessmuk S. My only concern with them is the lack of a decent hilt or finger guard. The handles are very comfortable, but they lack the protection I get from L.T. Wright’s GNS, Next Gen, or Gen 3.
Bk-9 is a solid knife, and even if you don't like it the experience from using it will guide future purchasing. For another option: have you considered a socket style knife? They're a proven design that's in use around the world for a reason, granted less so in the western/industrialized/commercialized nations, but for daily tasks and those similar to survival they do nicely and have even more function if the maker put/followed the traditional thoughts of purpose into it.
anything in 1095 that’s over $100 and isn’t a custom knife is overpriced as shit, especially when you can get 14c, 12c, nitro v, dc53, 52100, etc and if you catch a sale on a cold steel SRK/SRKc even 3v for under $100. i’ve even seen the cold steel master hunter in 3v for under $85. 1095 needs to go by the wayside, especially since these companies give it DOG SHIT heat treats treating them to 57-58 hrc which is absolutely stupid and ridiculous. some of the best bang for your buck survival knives are bark river, cold steel’s 3v and 52100 drop forged knives, brisa’s knives in e general but especially the trapper in O1 and elmax, battle horse knives, joker, and obviously mora. also can’t forget the terrava jakaripuuko in 80crv2.
@@TheSpoovy And yet Becker keeps selling huge numbers of knives each year, not to mention the THOUSANDS of 1095 knives sold by Esee and Tops. Why? Because there are a lot of people out there who either work or play hard with their knives, and we know we can depend on an expertly heat-treated piece of 1095 to do what it's supposed to: cut and cut and cut while holding together under abuse. I'm a teacher in a small ranching/farming communities in the high Rockies. I have students who come in to class after pulling in hay loads or shearing sheep still carrying a Tops BOB or a BK16 on their belt because they forget to leave it in their truck. They come to my class first because they know they can leave it with me and pick it up at the end of the day and I won't turn them in (yes, the assistant Principal knows I do this.) We've got plenty of kids who join the Army or the Marines, one of the most common gifts is a BK7. Nothing wrong with simplicity.
@@CadillacDriver firstly the sp10 is a literal wedge. i own an sp2 and it has the worst geometry i’ve ever seen on any knife. the sp10 is worse. secondly, 52100 and 3v specifically but also 14c and 12c are all MILES tougher than any 1095. there’s a reason you find 3v on the big ass chopping knives, there’s a reason 52100 is used on them. you can continue to be wrong all you’d like but objective numbers do not lie.
Great video. I’ve been waiting to see which you chose. We live offgrid and have a grouping of knives that get used for bushcraft/ survival type needs rather frequently. Since we have a machete, axe chainsaw and other knives to fill the gaps I would care less about the chopping and more about the batoning and knives uses like pruning trees etc. I may need the LT wright or joker to fill my gap in tools. Or maybe a Morakniv pathfinder. Great video. Thank you
Gotta love a Seth video. Your videos are always welcome. Not to detract anything from DCA, I love his stuff a lot too. But I love your stuff, man. The two of you together? Chefs kiss. I would have either went with the LT Wright or the Becker.
I feel you with your start. Beacuse I also started with folding knifes and after a lot of them i started to appreciate fixed blades, cuz of the hard use and to just go crazy with them in the woods and for their "bulletproof" characteristics. Hf with your new knife. And get to know it good :)
I agree with your choice. While I don't own any of the featured knives, I would go with the BK9 as a "1 tool option". Personally I can't imagine myself in a "1 tool" situation. I carry a pocket fixed blade daily and when heading for the woods I add a MY Parang Duku Chandong 8" and keep MY Parang Duku Chandong 10" in my vehicle along with another small fixed blade. I believe that all larger/survival knives need a lanyard attached . Good video and I'd like to have them all. Thank you.
Everything is a tradeoff. More size and weight for chopping means it is tougher to use for smaller tasks. The ESEE 6 for me is a nice weight/size, though other steel options would be nice like 3V. I grabbed the SRK 3V when I saw it on sale somewhere for $99. Crazy deal!
I had you choosing between the TOPS and the Becker! Glad to see you picked the BK-9! I have several Beckers including some duplicates. I highly recommend them and agree, dress it up and make it personal. Micarta scales. Kydex sheath. Baldric. Make it a part of you and have it on you when you are out and about! Good luck!
Excellent video. Love LTW, the Genesis for Bushcrafting is one of my favorites, Esee, great waranty and Tops are solid- (the BOB) and the Joker line is so good and affordable.
@knifecenter I got a 6” Ex Ghurka House Kukri from Kult of Athena for $50 and sanded the rough edges down myself. I just spent two weeks in Yellowstone using it to process store bought bundles down to small tinder and powder. Cant have unhoused fires up there. It was/is dextrous and insanely sharp and durable.
I have a hard time pinning down just what I think a survival knife is. I always end up with a bushcraft or camping knife. It's the kind of knife I would want if I were lost in the woods, and I would prioritize toughness. I look at those big honkers and I don't think that's what I would want. Too cumbersome. Yes, you could do some chopping, but not enough to really produce a lot of firewood or building materials. I don't think you'll be using any knife for that, too often. I don't think I'd go bigger than the SRK or Esee 6. A little story: When I was a teenager, I was into backpacking and wilderness survival, etc. I asked my Dad for a knife and he asked what kind I would like. I said, "the kind of knife you'd want if you were lost in the woods." On my birthday, he got me a Buck 119 Special. He reinforced the sheath with some rivets and stamped the spine, "For Mike From Dad - 1981." I took it on many outdoor adventures, but never had occasion to get lost in the woods and put it to the test. I still have it and cherish it, since my Dad passed away just in January.
That knife is priceless. I have a 1980 Schrade LB7. I'm now in my 60's and still think its a great knife. My son will get, and other more expensive ones, but that old folder is special.
@@mikehigbee2320 Its the one you have with, so always treat it right. The knife isnt so much the issue. Knowledge and skill and experience is how you make it thru. You can find a river or fteek bed and a good shiny or smooth rock, bteak it with anither rock, and you have a cutting edge.ive done that few times just to test Did one thin and sharp. Another with fat break but edge good ekough for rough work.
@@Kyle-bb9zp I have a '80 vintage Schrade LB7 with original sheath I carried for years. I was 18. Now at 62 almost, I look at it and relive the memories as I ponder giving it to my son. Maybe next year.😉
Great video - sharing your expert thoughts when buying a knife. It doesn't mean it will always transferable, but gives us inspiration. Simple knives like the Schrade have good basic specs and are great for modding. They can do what 90% of us actually need - not always what we want. No Condor on the table?
My choice on your table is surprisingly that full belly Tops even though I don’t like Tops, WTG, CS in general. And right after getting I would change the grind to convex starting half an inch upper than original shoulder. And my second choice is BK9. Cheers 🍻
That leather sheath for the Tops Earth Skills, is a traditional mountain man/fur trapper knife sheath style from the mid 1800's. They work great. I have two Green River knives that live in sheaths like that, and they are easy to carry. Oh, and I now use a Khukuri with a 8 inch 5160 High Carbon Spring steel blade. That was made in Kathmandu, Nepal. I think it could out chop any knife you've shown. And it is very easy to sharpen. Once you learn how.
Really done well. I enjoyed seeing your choices, and I have done bush crafting for many years ~~> maybe too many 😂! You made a good choice in my opinion. The JT is great, if you’re typically carrying a smallish forest axe for chopping for real chopping, but minus the axe, you wouldn’t have great chopping power in a pinch. The BK9 does have that ability (not like a good axe), but it’s pretty darn good and easy to sharpen in the bush. Take care!
If you find the handle on the BK9 doe snot have enough grip (and you don't want to buy the replacement micarta handles), you can use a Dremel rotary tool to cut slightly across the handle. I purchase a used BK16 that the previous owner did that. The plastic handle now feels like suede. You can make liners from an oil bottle or a laundry detergent bottle. I have a Schrade SCHF52. With the hollow grind, I am afraid the thin hollow grind tip will break if I breath on it to hard -- it is that thin. For a survival knife: ESEE Laser Strike -- it is a jack of all trades and master of none. For a chopper: BK21. For general camp chores: Mora Companion or Condor Terrasaur. For common everyday use: Victorinox Huntsman or Ranger.
You had a lot of great choices on the table. I have a couple of them, including the BK9. You can’t go wrong with the BK9, for me hockey stick tape on the handle and you’re good to go. Or you can go nuts customizing the knife. Great choice. The Steel Will knife kinda interest me. That was a new knife intro in my case. Gonna check it out. Please do a follow up on how you’re getting along with the BK9.
I’d love to see more of this type of video from you Seth. A follow up video would be cool after you’ve put a purchased knife through its paces or at least carrot for a bit. Keep up the good work Seth and Thomas. Always nice to see you guys on camera.
Hey Seth, EXCELLENT REVIEW AND ANALYSIS of some of the BEST survival knives on the market! Thomas also did a great job behind the camera; as usual, he's very helpful in "word finding" and adding some dry humor! It was fun to see your process of elimination and rationale. SUPERB CHOICE with the Becker BK 9! I don't have one yet, but it's on my "wishlist". I agree, it's worthwhile to get some upgraded Micarta handles and a better sheath. Another fun video would be "Best 3 Knife Combo for the Outdoors" (maybe you guys already did it). It would be cool to have a few different guys at Knife Center pick their ideal 3 outdoor-blade combo to compare/contrast with an explanation of their rationale. For example: yourself, DCA, and maybe even get Thomas out in front of the camera for a change! My 3 Knife Combo for the outdoors are all from TOPS - The El Chete, the Brakimo, and the Tanimbocca Puukko (and maybe I'll throw in a MSK - Mini Scandi Trekker for good measure!). 😎👍
Good choice Seth! But then I find a different perfect knife every week. Today, I was looking for a little brother to my Nepalese made Kukri. IRT survival knives, I have knives like the ESEE 6, a SRK in SK-5 and a BK2. If needed, however, any one of my many knives would be a survival knife. From my father's 1950's Hueters Improved Bowie to my 1960's Western Brand clip point (made in Boulder, CO), to my modern knives (many purchased from Knife Center) to the knives I've made in my backyard forge. As Gunny Highway said, "adapt, improvise and overcome". The knife I carry today is a Spyderco Tenacious that's fully serrated. Why? Because my wife and I are moving all our foofaraw and geegaws into our barn so we can get new floors installed in our house. Choice is great. God bless America!
Personally, I prefer a convexed edge or a scandi for outdoor knives. It's just easier for me to hand sharpen in the field. I'm going to take a look at Joker.
I’ve recently been down this road, but I ultimately decided to get all four of my finalists. 1) Zombie Tools Belmont 2) ESEE Junglas 3) BK9 And the last one, I still don’t have yet. 4) Trail Master San Mai
Spend some money on having an experience with a knife you already have! Make some memories, take a course.....I also use and collect knives. Just my opinion
Skip all the others and just go straight for the TM San Mai! I love mine! I had Rob Evans (Wales, UK) make me a stunning leather dangler sheath for it! Proud owner.
Well done 👏 The Earth Skills would probably be my first pick, I've never seen it before but damn that looks capable. If I was going boring I would definitely prefer the A1 or the SRK.
I sort of agree with you. Either the Joker, the ESEE 6 or the BK9 is all you need. Anything more expensive would only be justified by a super steel in my opinion.
Seth, You made a great choice. The BK9 is a tough blade. My choice would have been the ESEE Junglas which I do have. I just picked up an Eathengrow EF 143. For the price I carry it everyday.
GREAT VIDEO! However, you may want to consider a tomahawk (or a boy's ax) paired with a 4-inch fixed-blade knife, vs a "survival" (read: big) knife. Remember: you got to your "survival situation" in a vehicle or riding or walking with an animal(s). A 2nd (or 3rd) tool is reasonable to have. It's wise to use a pair of walking sticks--for their mechanical and other advantages--if you're INTENSIONALLY without a vehicle or animal(s). You still have a net advantage if you use them and carry a 2nd (or 3rd) tool.
Tops Tops they have a great selection of big survival knives that are outstanding. A nice Bola is very good for survival, I have a surgical steel explorer that has lasted for years and holds a great blade. Many years ago I spent $72 on it and it has proven valuable as a field tool, don't forget a good Tops Tracker V1699 for a heavy duty field knife. It will be around to pass down to the grandkids if you keep it up.
Seth, Thomas, great job on the video. I must admit I was a bit surprised (pleasantly) with your pick of the BK9, I had one years ago and it was accidentally left behind at a cottage one year. I think it's time to finally replace it, especially if I can get aftermarket micarta scales for it :).
I have both the Joker Nomad and the SRK in 3V and can't complain about either. The nice thing about the Joker is the convex edge and pretty good steel, whereas the SRK is lightweight and has 3V.
Perfect choice! Love the BK9! Unfortunately Kabar is incapable of making them right! Look for a straight one with symmetrical bevel heights and decent grind! Its been very hard for me to finally score one! Cheers
Seth & Thomas, I really enjoyed this video! Please make more like it to include your suggestion of videos of you learning survival skills. I would also love to see a video dedicated to comparing various Spyderco models. For instance, how about a video that compares the Stretch 2, Stretch 2 XL, Leafjumper, Manix, Para 2, etc. with a detailed focus on handle shape/size differences and cutting/slicing characteristics.
Please do more of these buying, and we would LOVE reviews/tests of the chosen knives!
Who else wants to see Joe Flowers teach Seth survival knife skills? -DCA
Better yet, Joe Flowers takes both Seth and Thomas on a trek through the Brazilian Rain Forest. That'd be an AWESOME show!
YES.
@@random_eskimo_in_the_rockiesI second this motion! Seth and Thomas in the Amazon!
Yessss!
@@knifecenter that would be awesome .
Seth and Thomas you guys can be very proud to produce one of the best videos I have ever seen. The key ingredient is the friendly and close approach. Just one word FANTASTIC
The joker are very nice knives no matter what you buy they are great
Good job Seth and Thomas. Well considered/thoughtful commentary and definitely made me want to buy every knife on that table. I appreciated the video and would like to see more! Whether that's Seth doing hands on survival skill learning or just getting to do some hands on shopping. Keep up the great work.
Seth did a great job. Get that man a fan or A/C!
Great video. I learned a lot! The SRK is my choice as a field knife and served me well over multiple deployments carried on my person. For “survival” my choice is an original, milspec, MOD-issue Kukri. It is just a super choice for all the survival functions cited in the video. I had one available for multiple deployments and often had it on a pack or in a vehicle rather than on my person. That knife mix worked well in a wide range of situations. My EDC is a Benchmade Barrage. It took a few years to come to these choices, but this is what worked for me in the military and law enforcement..
Great choice. I spent years modding my BK9 to improve performance. It was great as is but I kept tweaking it for fun and purpose as the years went on. It's now pretty much unrivaled in my collection.
Good choice. The BK9 is the one knife I feel can do it all. I usually bring a few knives to camp with but the one thing constant has always been the BK9. It makes a good chopper, takes place of a light axe at times, fillet a fish with and at the end of the night, act as a fire poker. Wipe it in the morning and do it all over again. Stock grip is ok, but a wrap of hockey tape on it makes it feel perfect.
The BK-9 is an excellent choice.
It’s like the Colt 1911, in that it hasn’t changed or gone out of style.
Solid and dependable.
Try the Terava Skrama 240 or the Terava Jaakaripuuko 140. Awesome Finnish knives for a good price with amazing leather sheaths that all come with danglers. The Skrama 240 runs for $115 with leather sheath. The Jaakaripuuko 140 for $89. Amazing knives. If I had not gotten already some knives I’d get both of them. They are an amazing combo. Terava is also a really cool surplus shop.
good choice on the BK9 .. I have chopped down a couple of 8 inch pines up in Idaho ... my cousin was quite surprised that while he was sleeping I was starting on a log cabin ... even after those 2 trees .. it would still shave hair on my arm.
Cut 4 ft of paracord. (Be sure to burn the ends so it doesn’t fray). Run the paracord through the belt loop of your BK-9 sheath and tie it around your waist secured with a square knot. It will beat a dangler every time. It will move out of your way and you can readjust it easily. This is the way SAS survival expert Lofty Wiseman carried his parangs.
I'm having trouble picturing that in any way that sounds comfortable...
Wow. I do basically the same thing to certain fixed-blades to have a more versatile carry and to get outa my way when forced with climbing rock obstacles. Ive got "loops and line" on several fixed-blade rigs, and i just like it. Starting doing that 40-something years ago, and still do when i go thru certain terrains.. i've been messin about in forests and tough terrains for over 50 years. I respect whatever knife i use, found out not to chop with my field knife like this fella has been saying. Get a small saw or hand axe. Treat 'em like your best girl. Ive used the same field knife over 40 years, and, as with any knife, i dont try to see if i can destroy it like some do. I try to respect whatever limits it may have by having amother tool if plausible that suits heavier tasks. I've never truly believed in "only one knife" principle. Through the decades, ive up to 4-6 knives for different tasks, plus short machetes, and sometimes a hand axe, not on a regular basis. Sorry to ramble. But glad to see someone else use the "loop and line" on the knives. Safe travels. Huckster
Smart choice. Bk9 is legendary. As you develop your skill set, the bk9 will keep up with you. For my Army survival training, I had a Kabar. On our kits, we have bk9s. I do have the Srk, cold steel trailmaster, and microtech curahee. I recommend a good pair of leather gloves and the benchmade Keychain sharpener. Also, take a multitool and a op folder. Oh no, two more shows. Lol. The FM army survival manual is the Bible for survival manuals.
Some things are just So well suited to tasks that they are hard to improve on ! Great video & choice !
BK9 is a terrific knife. It has stood the test of time, and is still on that table for a reason. The same is true of the Esee 6. The Esee, paired up with an axe and saw, would serve you well in the woods when you start doing survival type tasks. Good luck with your adventures.
The Fallkniven might surprise you. I find my F1's handle to be very comfortable. Also, they are specifically designed to work with gloves, which is a good idea in a survival situation.
I lived in the woods for 8yrs f1 was my belt knife and bark river tracker for my heavier tasks. F1 is an amazing knife,rather surprised how well it did.
I'd love to see more videos like this. I'm a big fan of the Ka-Bar BK2 (after replacing the scales with Micarta), Terava Skrama 240, and Joker Nomad, but I love LT Wright knives. I have a Cold Steel SRK and it's an outstanding garden knife.
A BK7 would also be a great choice and the SRK is such a good knife, crazy value
I would love to see more videos like this. Seth, dca or Thomas deciding between a variety of knives for a particular use is cool
To be honest I am never going to need a big knife for survival in the UK, however I do have a few large choppers I have used while camping for splitting kindling etc that would be because for some people, collecting blades is what you do. In reality what I use most these days is a small axe on my allotment and in my woodland for hedgelaying, limbing and snedding, and chopping logs and branches, I could actually do most of what those big knives do with my vintage Elwell slasher as it can cut deep it's like an old English equivalent of a parang, but mainly it is a tool for brush clearance not a woodsman's constant companion and comes out when needed like my scythe and hedge trimmer. For actual survival I think a small axe, a folding saw and a puuko will do you. Can't think of much such a combination can't do cos in reality you are not going to be felling mighty redwoods are you? Another thing too I suppose, I am into the aesthetics of knives, I like hand crafted handles made from natural materials and leather sheaths, generally that I have made myself because that is all part of the fun, there is nothing more satisfying than using a knife with a handle that has been crafted just for you and feels absolutely right.
I did this same exercise and ended up with the cold steel drop forged Survivalist. It’s about a pound of 52100 carbon steel, but it’s well balanced and capable of performing every camp task under the sun. I honestly don’t think I could break this thing if I tried.
Only drawback was the rear cross guard, but with some light modification, it magically disappeared.
Great knife, better value, “Drop Forged Survivalist”
Pity you did not consider the CS Trail Master! I have one and it excludes two important aspects. The cross guards are fine and my San Mai III version does not corrode and is super tough, full convex grind. It's a superbly balanced knife (like the Survivalist)! Check it out - but I warn you, you might just end up buying one!
@@dennisleighton2812 you have the SanMai version?
Please do a follow up with the changes you make with the BK9. Thanks
Was a bit surprised you didn't have the lionsteel m7 in the mix . But my choices are not the same as others .
I’d go with the T6, but yes I too was very surprised to not see a Lionsteel in there!
I see what you guys mean. But ofcoars, it's tough to get all the favorites in there. Likewise. How isn't the TRC's apocalypse in there?
@@Huntingdonn After many months I finally chose the TRC Apocalypse over the Fallkniven A1 Pro. I agree it should at least be in consideration.
I've been trying to talk myself into a joker nomad 6.5 for years. It will happen!!
this is EXACTLY the kind of content I want to see! Put that Becker through a gauntlet!
Great video! I like this guy. He’s not pretending to be a know-it-all like the Blade HQ punk.
Blade hq "DILBERT"
Who's the Blade HQ punk? I stopped paying attention to BHQ's videos after Ben moved on.
@@PlantDaddy1991 George AKA DILBERT, every once in a while I make the mistake of watching till I'm ready to scream
@@billvan5219, I got curious and watched a couple minutes of a video with him. I can't put my finger on why, but he immediately rubbed me the wrong way.
ya... Blade HQ dodo boyyyy... i hate that fake guy
Best all around is the Roach Belly - Fighting, carving, skinning, kitchen, and Bushcraft. It does it all.
Go with Esee Junglas exact same size as the BK9, but if you want micarta and kydex on your BK9 will be cheaper in the long run comparatively to go with the Esee. 130 for Kabar + Kydex + handles will be well over 200 where the esee Junglas already comes with those options for the same or less.
Thanks for the comment. I've wanted to add to that part of my collection (fixed blades), and that's a nice tip! Thanks again!
While I did go with an BK7 and did go with the scale upgrade and really liked that combo, but when I went for a bigger blade, I went the same way you suggest and really am pleased and highly recommend it .
BK9 AWESOME KNIFE IF I HAVE TO PICK ONE THIS IS IT ,THE DO IT ALL AND THEN SOME
Todd, sorry mate, the Junglas is way bigger than the BK9!
@@dennisleighton2812 Junglas II, 88.75 " - close enough for me !
your analytical selection is what I am 100% onboard... there so many awesome knives from the table but the Ka-Bar is the tried and true survival for chopping, doing some bushcraft task, and survival task... awesome selection!!!
Wait until you go into a wet environment and youll fully appreciate those Fallkniven handles ❤
Same goes for cold environments if you live where that happens the rubber helps
I'll take the Joker Nomad 6.5
Great video Seth and Thomas.
In my experience a rubber handle is less fatiguing because it absorbs a lot of the shock when chopping and pressing hard for batoning.
Welcome to the Bk9 club!!! Youll absolutely love it. Theyre a fkn beast
If chopping is your main idea wouldn’t small forest axe or hatchet be a better idea?
I'd think the last thing you'd want if you don't know when you are getting home is a knife you can't sharpen?
Nice lineup I have to say. My personal favorite knife of all time is the bk9. So I'd recommend it and never looking back
Great video dude!! Very informative and I think this is the best video you've done so far!! Definitely can tell the passion you have for this topic. I really appreciate and enjoyed your presentation!! ✌️
Can’t wait to see the use video!!!
I have the Becker BK 9 and the Fallkniven A1. Either one would have my full confidence, but the Fallkniven is my One knife that stays in my pack.
A tip for the BK 9: Take an hour and stipple the scales with the smallest tip on a wood burner, and then sand the stipples down to your preference. I have done a few different patterns. It really improves the grip on all the Becker knives.
Calling 9260 a tool steel is really a misnomer. It is more accurate to call it a spring steel. It’s almost like someone took 1065 and added a huge amount of silicon to it, taking what was already a tough steel and making it even more impact resistant. Sword makers like Paul Chen use 9260 to make long but exceedingly strong katanas from it. APOC tools don’t have a great deal of exposure yet, but among those who use them, they have earned a great deal of trust.
I have a bunch of blades made from it myself. Small black Smith, friend, and I can't say enough about them. His artistic ability to make the weapon/tool to fit what I wanted, and the durability of them is insane. At first I bought them to have them in my collection and one for use, now I have many to pass to my children, I can't see many blades holding up like they do and if my kids need a blade i want it to he something I trust for them as well, not to mention each was made special for each one of them , with touches that fit their personality.
@@beentheredonethat5908 Yeah, 9260 is great for making strong, tough blades. The only real downside to it (as long as you don't need it to be stainless, but even then 9260 isn't that bad with rust) is that the large amount of silicon means forging 9260 is somewhere between very difficult and almost impossible. If you're going to forge a blade rather than grind/stock removal a blade, you're better off with one of the simple 10xx series steels, or better yet, something like 80CrV2. However, for just grinding out a tough, dependable large blade, 9260 is great stuff.
Are you mistaking 5160 spring steel?
@@ap0lmc Certainly not. 5160 is similar, yet very different from 9260 at the same time. Chemically, 5160 has small amounts of chromium, while 9260 has none whatever. However, the big difference is in the silicon. While 5160 has a very small amount on silicon, 9260 has significantly more. The higher levels of silicon are a real impediment to forging. In addition, 5160 is much more forgiving in the heat treatment. With 9260 it's much harder to get a good quench and temper. APOC and Cheness are about the only producers who consistently get good HT with 9260. Much of Asia (especially Nepal) not to mention the rest of the world is filled with smiths getting marvelous performance with 5160.
@@random_eskimo_in_the_rockies thanks. What about Cheness swords are they any good? Some people said they're inconsistent and others love them. I heard they're out of business.
I have a Joker Nomad 6.5 and it is a great knife, the convex grind is still tricky for me to sharpen, but it feels stronger than a flat grind.
I have the Cold Steel knives dropped forged, both the Hunter and Survivalist. Have used them both for chopping, splitting and general use. Not sure I could break either of there. Had a ‘survival’ knife from another manufacturer that broke in half splitting wood once. Prefer to carry an axe or tomahawk for basic splitting now. A little extra weight but I don’t have to worry about my main fixed blade anymore. Great video. A few temptations but satisfied (for now).
Love that LT. I have a small LT Wright in AEB-L. Best edge I have in my collection. All the chatter about particle metal but it's edge is wonderfully smooth and sharp! It's also the knife people gravitate to when they visit my house.
mine is the Tops Brown Traker, and has been for years. have had several vertions of it, but love the cutting power and feel in my hand.
Good knife. BK7 was my camp knife from the days when they were made by Camillus. The stock handle is ergonomically perfect IMHO. My advice is a couple of wraps with grip tape around the handle. In wet hands it's like a wet bar of soap. I ended up making my own handle slabs from green canvas Micarta. Now they're offered and worth the extra purchase.
Good job young man. Really enjoyed the video.
I do enjoy knives as a journey.... so this is really nice content to see. Love it!
On your journey, do yourself a favour and make a turn towards Japan. That's where the Cold Steel Trail Master (San Mai III version) is hand-crafted in a full convex grind blade. It'll knock your socks off!
Great selection of fixed blades. I only have a few fixed blades in my collection and thinking about something in this category and size range. The Joker is the one I would choose.
Good choice….I have the BK 9, but my actual knife that rides in my backpack is a BK7, modified, micarta scales, no traction coating, and a kydex sheath! It does all I need it to do!
Joker is phenomenal. They are offering a great deal of value for the money. My favorites they offer are the Canadian and the Nessmuk S. My only concern with them is the lack of a decent hilt or finger guard. The handles are very comfortable, but they lack the protection I get from L.T. Wright’s GNS, Next Gen, or Gen 3.
Bk-9 is a solid knife, and even if you don't like it the experience from using it will guide future purchasing.
For another option: have you considered a socket style knife?
They're a proven design that's in use around the world for a reason, granted less so in the western/industrialized/commercialized nations, but for daily tasks and those similar to survival they do nicely and have even more function if the maker put/followed the traditional thoughts of purpose into it.
Very good video presentation, interesting, informative, entertaining, done with appropriate brevity and yet not too sparse.
anything in 1095 that’s over $100 and isn’t a custom knife is overpriced as shit, especially when you can get 14c, 12c, nitro v, dc53, 52100, etc and if you catch a sale on a cold steel SRK/SRKc even 3v for under $100. i’ve even seen the cold steel master hunter in 3v for under $85. 1095 needs to go by the wayside, especially since these companies give it DOG SHIT heat treats treating them to 57-58 hrc which is absolutely stupid and ridiculous. some of the best bang for your buck survival knives are bark river, cold steel’s 3v and 52100 drop forged knives, brisa’s knives in e general but especially the trapper in O1 and elmax, battle horse knives, joker, and obviously mora. also can’t forget the terrava jakaripuuko in 80crv2.
Bark River has some big issues not to long ago. Labeling steels wrong if I remember correctly.
Absolutely. I can't believe people are still buying 1095 knives at these prices. Ka-Bar should be making the Beckers in 3V or something by now.
@@TheSpoovy And yet Becker keeps selling huge numbers of knives each year, not to mention the THOUSANDS of 1095 knives sold by Esee and Tops. Why? Because there are a lot of people out there who either work or play hard with their knives, and we know we can depend on an expertly heat-treated piece of 1095 to do what it's supposed to: cut and cut and cut while holding together under abuse. I'm a teacher in a small ranching/farming communities in the high Rockies. I have students who come in to class after pulling in hay loads or shearing sheep still carrying a Tops BOB or a BK16 on their belt because they forget to leave it in their truck. They come to my class first because they know they can leave it with me and pick it up at the end of the day and I won't turn them in (yes, the assistant Principal knows I do this.) We've got plenty of kids who join the Army or the Marines, one of the most common gifts is a BK7. Nothing wrong with simplicity.
@@acid6urns I have an SP-10 that is indestructible. I'd not expect half the steels you have mentioned, to survive what mine has.
@@CadillacDriver firstly the sp10 is a literal wedge. i own an sp2 and it has the worst geometry i’ve ever seen on any knife. the sp10 is worse. secondly, 52100 and 3v specifically but also 14c and 12c are all MILES tougher than any 1095. there’s a reason you find 3v on the big ass chopping knives, there’s a reason 52100 is used on them. you can continue to be wrong all you’d like but objective numbers do not lie.
Great video. I’ve been waiting to see which you chose. We live offgrid and have a grouping of knives that get used for bushcraft/ survival type needs rather frequently. Since we have a machete, axe chainsaw and other knives to fill the gaps I would care less about the chopping and more about the batoning and knives uses like pruning trees etc. I may need the LT wright or joker to fill my gap in tools. Or maybe a Morakniv pathfinder. Great video. Thank you
Gotta love a Seth video. Your videos are always welcome. Not to detract anything from DCA, I love his stuff a lot too. But I love your stuff, man. The two of you together? Chefs kiss. I would have either went with the LT Wright or the Becker.
I feel you with your start. Beacuse I also started with folding knifes and after a lot of them i started to appreciate fixed blades, cuz of the hard use and to just go crazy with them in the woods and for their "bulletproof" characteristics. Hf with your new knife. And get to know it good :)
I agree with your choice. While I don't own any of the featured knives, I would go with the BK9 as a "1 tool option". Personally I can't imagine myself in a "1 tool" situation. I carry a pocket fixed blade daily and when heading for the woods I add a MY Parang Duku Chandong 8" and keep MY Parang Duku Chandong 10" in my vehicle along with another small fixed blade. I believe that all larger/survival knives need a lanyard attached . Good video and I'd like to have them all. Thank you.
Everything is a tradeoff. More size and weight for chopping means it is tougher to use for smaller tasks. The ESEE 6 for me is a nice weight/size, though other steel options would be nice like 3V. I grabbed the SRK 3V when I saw it on sale somewhere for $99. Crazy deal!
I had you choosing between the TOPS and the Becker!
Glad to see you picked the BK-9!
I have several Beckers including some duplicates. I highly recommend them and agree, dress it up and make it personal. Micarta scales. Kydex sheath. Baldric. Make it a part of you and have it on you when you are out and about!
Good luck!
Excellent video. Love LTW, the Genesis for Bushcrafting is one of my favorites, Esee, great waranty and Tops are solid- (the BOB) and the Joker line is so good and affordable.
I'd love to be able to wander around the KnifeCentre warehouse when I fancy buying a new knife. (I'd have gone with the Joker myself.)
@knifecenter I got a 6” Ex Ghurka House Kukri from Kult of Athena for $50 and sanded the rough edges down myself. I just spent two weeks in Yellowstone using it to process store bought bundles down to small tinder and powder. Cant have unhoused fires up there. It was/is dextrous and insanely sharp and durable.
I would definitely like a follow up vid where you try out some of your favorite blades and field testing them ie batoning carving fire making etc
That Fallkniven has a laminated steel blade which also adds to the cost. Hard in the core and softer on the sleeve.
I have a hard time pinning down just what I think a survival knife is. I always end up with a bushcraft or camping knife. It's the kind of knife I would want if I were lost in the woods, and I would prioritize toughness. I look at those big honkers and I don't think that's what I would want. Too cumbersome. Yes, you could do some chopping, but not enough to really produce a lot of firewood or building materials. I don't think you'll be using any knife for that, too often. I don't think I'd go bigger than the SRK or Esee 6.
A little story: When I was a teenager, I was into backpacking and wilderness survival, etc. I asked my Dad for a knife and he asked what kind I would like. I said, "the kind of knife you'd want if you were lost in the woods." On my birthday, he got me a Buck 119 Special. He reinforced the sheath with some rivets and stamped the spine, "For Mike From Dad - 1981." I took it on many outdoor adventures, but never had occasion to get lost in the woods and put it to the test. I still have it and cherish it, since my Dad passed away just in January.
That's a good survival knife just might have limitations but still very capable. Buck makes very good things and has a very good warranty.
That knife is priceless. I have a 1980 Schrade LB7. I'm now in my 60's and still think its a great knife. My son will get, and other more expensive ones, but that old folder is special.
@@mikehigbee2320 Its the one you have with, so always treat it right. The knife isnt so much the issue. Knowledge and skill and experience is how you make it thru. You can find a river or fteek bed and a good shiny or smooth rock, bteak it with anither rock, and you have a cutting edge.ive done that few times just to test Did one thin and sharp. Another with fat break but edge good ekough for rough work.
@@Kyle-bb9zp I have a '80 vintage Schrade LB7 with original sheath I carried for years. I was 18. Now at 62 almost, I look at it and relive the memories as I ponder giving it to my son. Maybe next year.😉
Great video - sharing your expert thoughts when buying a knife. It doesn't mean it will always transferable, but gives us inspiration.
Simple knives like the Schrade have good basic specs and are great for modding. They can do what 90% of us actually need - not always what we want.
No Condor on the table?
My choice on your table is surprisingly that full belly Tops even though I don’t like Tops, WTG, CS in general. And right after getting I would change the grind to convex starting half an inch upper than original shoulder. And my second choice is BK9. Cheers 🍻
I have the Khukri House DBAD Preacher for this. That said a Khukri is IMHO the do it all survival tool.
BK 9 would be my choice too. Great pick.👍👍 I have the BK 21 and love it.
That leather sheath for the Tops Earth Skills, is a traditional mountain man/fur trapper knife sheath style from the mid 1800's. They work great. I have two Green River knives that live in sheaths like that, and they are easy to carry. Oh, and I now use a Khukuri with a 8 inch 5160 High Carbon Spring steel blade. That was made in Kathmandu, Nepal. I think it could out chop any knife you've shown. And it is very easy to sharpen. Once you learn how.
Really done well. I enjoyed seeing your choices, and I have done bush crafting for many years ~~> maybe too many 😂! You made a good choice in my opinion. The JT is great, if you’re typically carrying a smallish forest axe for chopping for real chopping, but minus the axe, you wouldn’t have great chopping power in a pinch. The BK9 does have that ability (not like a good axe), but it’s pretty darn good and easy to sharpen in the bush.
Take care!
If you find the handle on the BK9 doe snot have enough grip (and you don't want to buy the replacement micarta handles), you can use a Dremel rotary tool to cut slightly across the handle. I purchase a used BK16 that the previous owner did that. The plastic handle now feels like suede. You can make liners from an oil bottle or a laundry detergent bottle.
I have a Schrade SCHF52. With the hollow grind, I am afraid the thin hollow grind tip will break if I breath on it to hard -- it is that thin.
For a survival knife: ESEE Laser Strike -- it is a jack of all trades and master of none. For a chopper: BK21. For general camp chores: Mora Companion or Condor Terrasaur. For common everyday use: Victorinox Huntsman or Ranger.
Love this style of video. Great way to talk about knives from your perspective and your purchasing thought process.
You had a lot of great choices on the table. I have a couple of them, including the BK9.
You can’t go wrong with the BK9, for me hockey stick tape on the handle and you’re good to go. Or you can go nuts customizing the knife.
Great choice.
The Steel Will knife kinda interest me. That was a new knife intro in my case. Gonna check it out.
Please do a follow up on how you’re getting along with the BK9.
I’d love to see more of this type of video from you Seth. A follow up video would be cool after you’ve put a purchased knife through its paces or at least carrot for a bit. Keep up the good work Seth and Thomas. Always nice to see you guys on camera.
Hey Seth, EXCELLENT REVIEW AND ANALYSIS of some of the BEST survival knives on the market! Thomas also did a great job behind the camera; as usual, he's very helpful in "word finding" and adding some dry humor! It was fun to see your process of elimination and rationale. SUPERB CHOICE with the Becker BK 9! I don't have one yet, but it's on my "wishlist". I agree, it's worthwhile to get some upgraded Micarta handles and a better sheath.
Another fun video would be "Best 3 Knife Combo for the Outdoors" (maybe you guys already did it). It would be cool to have a few different guys at Knife Center pick their ideal 3 outdoor-blade combo to compare/contrast with an explanation of their rationale. For example: yourself, DCA, and maybe even get Thomas out in front of the camera for a change! My 3 Knife Combo for the outdoors are all from TOPS - The El Chete, the Brakimo, and the Tanimbocca Puukko (and maybe I'll throw in a MSK - Mini Scandi Trekker for good measure!). 😎👍
Try a skrama 200cm or 240 cm from Finland, best value and wonderful feel
You’ll never see this channel talk about that knife or anything from Terävä because their company doesn’t sell them.
Thanks it's a pity
Great idea mate. Take a few knives for a field test. Make it an on-going episodes. Cheers Seth & Thomas from Australia.
This young gentleman did a wonderful job on this video. He’s very well spoken and quite knowledgeable 👍🏻🇺🇸
Hello 👋 my knife specialist, thank you for this informative video. I like the SRK and the Becker BK9. Stay safe. 😊
Good choice Seth! But then I find a different perfect knife every week. Today, I was looking for a little brother to my Nepalese made Kukri. IRT survival knives, I have knives like the ESEE 6, a SRK in SK-5 and a BK2. If needed, however, any one of my many knives would be a survival knife. From my father's 1950's Hueters Improved Bowie to my 1960's Western Brand clip point (made in Boulder, CO), to my modern knives (many purchased from Knife Center) to the knives I've made in my backyard forge. As Gunny Highway said, "adapt, improvise and overcome". The knife I carry today is a Spyderco Tenacious that's fully serrated. Why? Because my wife and I are moving all our foofaraw and geegaws into our barn so we can get new floors installed in our house. Choice is great. God bless America!
Personally, I prefer a convexed edge or a scandi for outdoor knives. It's just easier for me to hand sharpen in the field. I'm going to take a look at Joker.
I’ve recently been down this road, but I ultimately decided to get all four of my finalists.
1) Zombie Tools Belmont
2) ESEE Junglas
3) BK9
And the last one, I still don’t have yet.
4) Trail Master San Mai
Spend some money on having an experience with a knife you already have! Make some memories, take a course.....I also use and collect knives. Just my opinion
Skip all the others and just go straight for the TM San Mai! I love mine! I had Rob Evans (Wales, UK) make me a stunning leather dangler sheath for it! Proud owner.
@@dennisleighton2812he already got the others!
😅
Now he'll leave all the others at home!
I would opt for the Trailmaster in 3V. San Mai gets chippy when chopping wood!
Well done 👏 The Earth Skills would probably be my first pick, I've never seen it before but damn that looks capable. If I was going boring I would definitely prefer the A1 or the SRK.
I sort of agree with you. Either the Joker, the ESEE 6 or the BK9 is all you need. Anything more expensive would only be justified by a super steel in my opinion.
Like this style of video and YES to the real world use of your new purchase
I went with a TOPS Kukri. super pleased.
Seth, You made a great choice. The BK9 is a tough blade. My choice would have been the ESEE Junglas which I do have. I just picked up an Eathengrow EF 143. For the price I carry it everyday.
I definitely want to see more of this seth. Do another one with an EDC folder or a heavy duty/hard use folder
Yes, I'd love to see you learning new skills and putting your new knife to the test, please!
I would definitely like to see those videos too!
GREAT VIDEO!
However, you may want to consider a tomahawk (or a boy's ax) paired with a 4-inch fixed-blade knife, vs a "survival" (read: big) knife. Remember: you got to your "survival situation" in a vehicle or riding or walking with an animal(s). A 2nd (or 3rd) tool is reasonable to have.
It's wise to use a pair of walking sticks--for their mechanical and other advantages--if you're INTENSIONALLY without a vehicle or animal(s). You still have a net advantage if you use them and carry a 2nd (or 3rd) tool.
Tops Tops they have a great selection of big survival knives that are outstanding. A nice Bola is very good for survival, I have a surgical steel explorer that has lasted for years and holds a great blade. Many years ago I spent $72 on it and it has proven valuable as a field tool, don't forget a good Tops Tracker V1699 for a heavy duty field knife. It will be around to pass down to the grandkids if you keep it up.
Awesome video. I’ve been procrastinating on getting the BK16 for ages and think I’ll finally go for it now. Can’t wait to see the BK9 in use videos!
Seth, Thomas, great job on the video. I must admit I was a bit surprised (pleasantly) with your pick of the BK9, I had one years ago and it was accidentally left behind at a cottage one year. I think it's time to finally replace it, especially if I can get aftermarket micarta scales for it :).
Great job bro I really appreciate all your studying you do an excellent show God bless you my friend
Just ordered that joker nomad 6.5!
Can't wait to get hands on it.
I have both the Joker Nomad and the SRK in 3V and can't complain about either. The nice thing about the Joker is the convex edge and pretty good steel, whereas the SRK is lightweight and has 3V.
Perfect choice! Love the BK9! Unfortunately Kabar is incapable of making them right! Look for a straight one with symmetrical bevel heights and decent grind! Its been very hard for me to finally score one! Cheers
Seth & Thomas, I really enjoyed this video! Please make more like it to include your suggestion of videos of you learning survival skills. I would also love to see a video dedicated to comparing various Spyderco models. For instance, how about a video that compares the Stretch 2, Stretch 2 XL, Leafjumper, Manix, Para 2, etc. with a detailed focus on handle shape/size differences and cutting/slicing characteristics.