Own the DLT exclusive Ursus 45 in 3V and have been wondering the same thing. It's a killer package with the super nice sheath and fire steel, but don't see much talk about them for whatever reason. Glad to see it featured here.
This is whats so hard up about the knive world. The common man doesnt have 250 bucks for a fucking knive, let alone food and money to reitre on. The world is fucked, and keeps getting more fucked, yet developers and companies keep making this shit, when they could sell at way less. Its a fucked greedy system, and for that reason, im out. (Ill never buy a knive over 100 dollars, and thats pushing it)
For that much and it comes with a bottom of the barrel sheath! Enough reason for not purchasing... It's sad in this day in age a guy has to build a sheath to replace the crap that came with the blade...
@@jonjacobjingleheimerschmid3798 the sheath is great, what exactly do you have a problem with. I have had this knife in my hands and you are not correct on the sheath.
Does look like a dam fine blade BUT not everyone can or wants to spend that much on a knife(if you ever met a REAL outdoor/off grid living mountain man Id put money on it’ll be very unlikely he’ll be carrying a $250 knife !) , for the price of that 1 knife I could pickup a bundle of knives from the likes of Mora/BPS/ESEE/etc . Ultimately it comes down to the price your willing to pay for a blade , but we all know once you pass a certain price threshold then until you reach the next price range they’re all basically the same quality the only difference is the steel type and the shape . Ps a lot commenting on “it’s American made” so it must be good , really ? Because unless the original steel is custom forged(very unlikely in that price bracket) then it’s been made from commercially sourced steel that’s more than likely been made in the far east anyway !
I've had my Ursus 45 for about a year and a half at this point. Two summers of camping hiking, adventure motorcycling, and Jeeping and it has been my go-to belt knife the whole time. Comfortable, capable, reliable, no drama. It just works without fuss or bother. That is the win right there. If I am headed away from cell service it is with me, be stupid not to have it. I have a few other fixed blades and it isn't the knife I send beginners to, but this is the last one I think I'll need.
I think White River knives are overlooked and I’m not sure why either. They always produce high-quality craftsmanship and functional knives. I have the backpacker from White River and it’s the most comfortable knife that I’ve ever held. Thanks for sharing your review.
I'm not exactly surprised people aren't talking about it. It reminds me of the Lionsteel m5 but that's about $100 cheaper or the QSP Bison for about $170 less. You also have the Esee 4 at around 150. For a knife to get talked about it needs to exceed expectations in some way and at the price point just being a good knife isn't wooing most people.
G'day mate, fair comment. Though not sure, at last look anyway, the M5 is that much cheaper here in oz, or the ESEEs, for that matter, but still, point well taken. Cheers Duke.
@@eyeofthetiger4184 That's completely fair I have no idea what the situation looks like overseas those were just as a US buyer because that's what I am. If that's not the case elsewhere then there might be some other factor keeping this knife out of the spotlight.
@@gnomersy1087 Thanks for the reply mate. FYI; we do have access locally to the fair majority of the good stuff you guys get, though at times I have had to order direct from the U.S, or Europe, to obtain a totally compelling piece of kit. But often, (in fairness, not always), the killer is shipping and/or currency conversion, ..... especially for an individual. As far as this particular knife goes, what can I say, other than the market is well and truly flooded....... yes a good thing in some respects, .......but does tend to "camouflage" some rippers, particularly from smaller enterprises. It must be pain in Aaron's, and other reviewer's, arses, to keep across, even a decent percentage, of them all, lol.
@@eyeofthetiger4184 Yes. As I mentioned, we are absolutely spoiled with excellent choices for knives. I love inexpensive Moras and some not so inexpensive customs I have. Not to mention some in between that range. It just depends on what you like.
S35vn is the perfect stainless field knife steel, in my opinion. Holds an edge, but it'd not hard to put it back if you do lose it, and it responds to a strop really well.
simplistic workhorses are the backbone of utility tools. I would rather have a capable "boring" design, than something with a lot of flash, and no bang. there is a good reason that basic spear point designs never stop showing up. the only S35 blade I have so far is an Alan Folts made minimalist. while I do really like that knife, it is a 2.875 Persian blade necker, so not really suited for hard use testing. This is a very good size and blade shape for belt carry. this is a size that I tend to gravitate to for my belt carry. larger knives tend to wind up in my pack, to pull out when it is required, but so many of the day to day use tasks the 4-5" blade is more than enough. this does look like a really solid option.
Price is a big issue. Its not that i cant afford 250 bucks . Its i refuse to pay that for a knife. These knife mfg are going to soon push the prices so high the market will crash. There are plenty of knives that will do anything that knife will do for 1/2 the price maybe less.
S35vn is great steel. But it just doesn’t feel like a great purchase in 2023. Magnacut is supposed to be reasonably priced. It’s basically the replacement for s35vn. White river knives are as nice as any custom. Hands down the nicest fit and finish. They just need to hurry up and make the switch.
I have had an Ursus 45 for 5 years now and love it. Their S35VN heat treat seems spot on. Thick stock steel with a good high grind and good handle design make it a great multipurpose knife. I got it as a deer knife to replace a knife in S30V. The S35VN seems to tolerate incidental bone contact better and seems a bit more steel and strop friendly.
It looks VERY similar to my architect 5.5 from the Knife Connection (3V first production run, made by TOPS). Similar shape, handle and sheath. As you say and demonstrate, a great if simplistic design. Basically a bushcraft handle on a more typical survival/hunting blade. White River makes great knives, I have the M1 and it is a great EDC fixed blade! Those Bradfords are great too, I have the 3.5 and 5.5 in 3V. Good review!
Wow thats a great knife. Sad to see how many people have been impacted by unrealistic prices for things from China (slave labor with garbage QC and materials) that dont last. This aint one of those things It looks really close to a few knives Bark River does that I have eye balled before... is there any relationship between Bark River Knives and White River? Perhaps not but I think your right, this one really catches my eye. I have a few S35Vn knives, definitely harder to sharpen vs other steels. Not for people that arent very experienced at sharpening.
Own the 3V version as well with the black blade variant. It’s hard to convey just how good it feels in the hand. I was fortunate to get mine at blade show for $175 and it’s been nothing but spectacular.
Bro!!! So glad you finally got this knife and reviewed it. I got the layered green/black handled version with the traditional leather sheath from Sportsman’s a few years back and still love it everyday despite it not being kydex. The ergos are phenomenal as I think white river designs their handles, in general, to fit the hand very well. Also, I love the fact that the spine corners are knocked down just a touch near the handle for your thumb placement and out by the tip it’s sharper for striking. It’s probably one of my favorites, if not my favorite general all purpose fixed knife of all time for the outdoors. S35VN and their heat treat is fantastic, it’s very well rounded and easy to put an edge back on. The stone wash is gorgeous as well. Loyal to mine for sure. I take it camping with me to the San Juans and Sangre de Cristos every year. Still love my Kuhl Burr jacket you reviewed a while back. Thanks bro!
Knife prices have gotten rediculous. Winkler knives dont seem so expensive now. Try and resell your knife on the used market and then youll see what that is actually worth.
Thanks for the video, man!! Very nice blade. What do you think about the Esee 4 in s35vn? How come there are not many reviews of it, even by Esee. It's like they don't care for it. I think it's the best 4-inch knife in s35vn. Be safe.
The ESEE 3 in S35VN is my EDC work knife. I have the 4 also but with aftermarket scales. I agree that they are nice blades. I haven’t done much woodcraft with either but they have preformed every task Iv asked of them well.
Funny because one the reasons why S35VN was done by crucible and Chris Reeve was to provide a slightly better performance of the steel compared to S30V. And that means that toughness should be better as well. But it depends on the HT, as always.
S30v vs s35vn with optimal heat treats, s35vn was designed to be significantly tougher then s30v. I personally love s30v and really don't care to much for s35vn as it just looses its aggression to quickly but that doesn't change the fact that s35vn is significantly tougher and less chippy then s30v. That is assuming equal quality of heat treat with both steels ran in their optimal hardness range. At 58-60hrc s35vn will be notably tougher in a hard use knife then s30v will as well as being notably quicker to touch up on the stones then s30v will be. WRKs absolutely made a better choice (I hate to say it) going with s35vn in this knife design then s30v. With the geometry and intended use case for this knife they would have been dealing with broken tips and chipped out edges if they had went s30v. For ask fantastic of a steel as well done s30v is for pocket knives and lighter duty fixed blades... it has no place in a knife like this with the type of uses these knives are typically used for. S35vn or s45vn is an ideal steel for this knife in a stainless version. Personally I really wish they would do it in cpm 440v/S60V and I would buy one in a heart beat.. s30v is a great steel and a damn good performer but not suited well for this type of knife with the use case it's designed to fill. Maybe they should make us a budget version of it for like 150 and do it in 14c28n or better yet 19c27 as a stainless option and 80crv2 as a nonstainless option!!! That would be a kickass 150 dollar Knife that would sell like wildfire spreads I bet!
how would you compare that knife vs the italian made one you reviewed the Lion steel blade, which is alot more money bigger blade but as far as performances/tasks.......
The most I have ever spent on a knife was $200, and maybe a little more. And I never use those knives because there is too much of a risk of losing one or having it get scratched up and damaged. I have learned that when things are expensive or uncomfortable / heavy, they are often the last things I will reach for.
I would say this is the primary reason this knife isn't some viral knife. You need to get a knife in the sub $100 range so that the average person can buy it and feel comfortable beating the crap out of it daily or it is a show piece.
Great review of a beautiful knife. White River makes some nice stuff!!!! Just picked up a smaller fixed blade....L T Wright Bushcrafter that has a very similar shaped handle in Python Micarta...that comes with a beautiful Leather sheath...
I bought mine about one month before you did this video and got it for around $200. When you consider the price of a TOPS or Essee, now usually just around $180 for 1095 steel, it's worth it. It's a great value. Like you said, the sheath alone is great quality and well thought out in design. Essee and White River both have the same warranty except I'm not sure whether White River has the "no questions asked" part.
Let's all take a moment to appreciate a knife review that ACTUALLY SAYS the cost!!! I block all channels that don't. Stumbled on this. Subbing, for transparency.
Yes I just watched your video on brush knives and I get where your coming from,and I guess you can call me old School 🏫🎒 but I believe that the very best knive you can have that is if you have the skill to do it making your own knives and what I meen is that you design it you customize it to your taste and so on Sir
Love this knife, the Ursus 45 is my favorite. I have a video on my channel about it and I show the best sheath mod for it, especially the older sheaths that seemed to be much, much tighter and im not talking about modifying the actual sheath itself. Its worth checking out lol.
I have nothing against White River, but I am squarely in the Bark River camp for most of my fixed blade knife desires these days. As for Magnacut, sure, it is a great steel innovation, but, personally, I would like to see more options toward S35VN or CPM 3V to get those same new designs at cheaper prices. Magnacut it *way* more expensive than most other steels just because it is so new.
@@gideonstactical The two were on the table in front of me, and I wanted something a little smaller for camping. I like the size and performance of the fc4, but often I wish I had a thicker grip. Also the bow drill hole on the fc4 began to bother me more than I thought it would. Kind of a bummer... I should have gone with the ursus.
Ok so ursus 45 S35VN/3V or tops field craft BOB 154cm? Wait..... Or the Tops Brush Wolf? I want them all but just looking for a one knife to rule them all jic 💩 happens
Ursus 45, s35vn tends to have better edge or attention but 3V steel will be tougher, so depending on what you care about more will be the version to go with.
My wife bought me this as a gift last year and it has became my favorite piece in my collection. I originally hinted to her on their firecraft 4 knife but she said she liked the looks of this one better and I’m sooo glad she did! This knife has everything i look for in a fixed blade for my use!
@@hendrikgarnkaufer5488 fair point! The wait is insane with a GSO. I ordered that exact blade, 4.5 K890 scandi. I do like the design of the Urus. Should be fun!
@@hendrikgarnkaufer5488 I anticipate months, but we’ll see. I have three of their knifes already and they’re all impeccable. Excited to see what K890 is all about. Sounds like an improvement over cpm 3V, which would be amazing. How’s the S35vn? I always thought that was a small folder type of steel, not chippy in a larger blade?
I drove 300 kilometers to buy it, once there I was disappointed, for myself too small handle and ergonomics! In addition, the knife remained stuck in the sheath ! but very nice knife !! here in Québec is 340$ excellent review as usual ! thanks
At 70+ years old I'm not about to be conned into spending $250 on a single knife that can't outperform any of those I already have. Hell, a Mora Bushcraft Black will probably last longer than the years I have left, but so would an Old Hickory butcher knife that's already 30 years and going. Very bait snd switch of you for a title like that and then the content. You've come a long way from your early days but now you're, with a very few exceptions, into solid Gucci level territory.
I have two models from White River... 3" BackPacker original w/ paracord & 3.5" FireCraft w/ HI VIS green G-10... both in stonewashed S35VN steel. Fit, finish workmanship & all materials are very good. The little yet very precise design of the Backpacker is highly suitable for use on PFDs (life-vests) as a great knife rafting. Some might suggest a blunt tip, serrations, and marginal steel selections for such a river-ready tool... however... professionally, for all-rounder use, fish/game prep, rescue/recovery, crafting, first aid, and various repair tasks... all those crappy 'looks cool trendy' river knives are relatively junk by comparison. FireCraft is an interesting niche knife. If/when I'm going White River as a selection... I'll look at 'em for very specific more niche vs. general camp task knives. In other words = I would not select this Ursus, likely not s35vn for steel choice, and especially at this sort of price point. I do feel it is quality with the attention to detail there, and a good company... just likely not the way I'd go, and would not view it as a go-to for most.
Have two of them. I love these knives. Good geometry, good steel and a comfortable handle. I use it alongside with the White River Exodus. A great combination.
Great review.... I have a big crush on this knife... The craftsmenship and the attention to design details is very good. That knife also has a rounded spine near the handle for just over an inch that transitions to a 90° for striking ferro rods... Just very well thought out. FYI - They have a new smaller version of this model, called the Ursus Cub. I think it is in Magnacut... If have some thinking to do....
S35VN is an all around good choice for an outdoor workhouse. Years ago I fell for the 1095 ESEE trend and bought a couple. They simply dull too damn fast. Sure, super easy to bring the edge back, but I don't want to stop to do that in the middle of tasks. I love magnacut and cruwear as much as they next, but they're pretty steeply priced for a fixed blade. The price point for quality of this steel make it an ideal option. If I had extra money to blow, I'd get a magnacut fixed blade (do they even make one as beefy as that Ursus?)...but right now that extra money goes towards new guns and more ammo. If I were in the market for another fixed blade, I'd definitely give this one a shot. The handle is actually the selling point for me, with the dangler being a big bonus. They should all provide a dangler with kydex.
@@WoodsmanHobo777 That is in no way relevant. If people in the Neolithic era had Magnacut, do you think they'd say, "Naw, I'll stay with flint"?. Or how about the "Native Americans", did they just stick with stone tomahawks? Fuck no, they sold their soles for steel tomahawks and knives, then later muskets. That's the way of technology. And it was hundreds of thousands of years at a minimum, not just thousands. Run along back to the kids you half wit.
I'll take my 10yr old BK16 over those s35vn stainless blades. Not even because of the price I'm just comfortable with it and don't mind the little maintenance involved but I swear I can do everything you did in your review just as well. Sure I have an aftermarket sheath and a few mods. I'm not impressed for what you get.
I have this knife and 2 other white rivers. All their knives are superb. The model 1 is a great every day carry and i also have the hunter, its basic a smaller thinner version of the Ursus, the hunter is a great all around camp knife but is just a bit better in food prep than the monster Ursus
For women the thickness of the grip is important. Don’t forget to include us!! I like the thinner grip for my hand. It makes it a bit complicated when you can’t hold one before buying. More online time to search out affordable options and brands. Thank you for considering including women in reviews in future videos
Hello from Austria, I‘ve recently picked up an Ursus 45, awesome blade. Just a quick question, please: is the spine supposed to be really, really sharp? I’ve read it‘s supposed to be sharp to allow striking a ferrorod. But mine is super sharp, almost uncomfortable, with a tiny burr which I can feel on the edge of the spine with my fingernail. Is that within tolerance? I also own a Cub which is not as sharp on the spine. Also, I do not feel a burr on the Cub‘s spine. Thanks!
The price honestly is not bad for what you get. Properly ground, heated bushcraft knife with a tough CPM steel known for above average toughness for a vanadium rich stainless, and a nice kydex sheath
Love all your reviews man great job as all ways.. I'm looking at the White River GTI 4.5 Fixed Blade Knife can you have a look at it if posable... thanks
Too expensive, stainless steel. In that size, at that price Im taking a bark river Aurora or LT Wright GNS as my all purpose belt knife. If i really wanted a 4.5" prybar i could get an esee 4p for less than half the price.
Prybar??? This thing is 0.158” with a high grind. Not sure how thing you like your blades but that’s a really nice balance to me in the geometry worked really well. It’s not a Becker BK2
I love the leather dangler sheath that comes with the FC7 as well. Hands down the best looking leather sheath I have ever seen. Very comfortable to wear for such a big knife too.
@@Doobie603that handle looks too thin and that funky index finger choil looks like a hotspot on the FC7. It’s comfortable? Looks like too much going on.
@@shamitoson Handle felt small out of the box & I was rather concerned but (for me at least) it doesn't actually cause any issue or fatigue while feathersticking or cutting, & it works quite well when maneuvering for notching & such. I personally find it to be quite ergonomic. Be interesting to see if the handle poses any issues for people with larger hands.
I'm glad you love the Ursus 45 as much as I do. I have the DLT exclusive in 3V and loved it so much that immediately bought one for my brother and his kids to use on their hikes. It's the complete package right out of the box (not to mention that box that it comes in is A+ presentation!) with dangler sheath and fire steel. A small detail that I love is the angled sharpening choil so things slide up onto the edge instead of getting caught there when cutting. This is easily in my top 5 belt knives and my go-to recommendation for a more premium USA made hiking companion knife.
I live very close to where these knives are made. Theres a local gun and knife show every couple months, and theres always a booth with a guy who gets a bunch of "blemish" models to sell for them. The "blemishes" are incredibly minor and they sell them at a huge discount. Last time i was there he had a dlc coated version of this knife that had a super small area that didnt get as thick of coating, and he was selling it for $185. Wish i would've picked it up.
Own the DLT exclusive Ursus 45 in 3V and have been wondering the same thing. It's a killer package with the super nice sheath and fire steel, but don't see much talk about them for whatever reason. Glad to see it featured here.
Hang onto that blade bud! Hard to find the 3v!
@@737AMT Looks like they still have the cerakoted versions in 3V fwiw, though they're a little more expensive vs the sold out satin version.
It'd be a cool option for them to produce a 3V scandi version of the U45 imo
@@MaximumFatness Heck yeah. I'd buy one for sure. Love Scandi's
I have the 3V also, very nice
This is whats so hard up about the knive world. The common man doesnt have 250 bucks for a fucking knive, let alone food and money to reitre on. The world is fucked, and keeps getting more fucked, yet developers and companies keep making this shit, when they could sell at way less. Its a fucked greedy system, and for that reason, im out. (Ill never buy a knive over 100 dollars, and thats pushing it)
No one is talking about it because it's $250 knife. How many years do you have to use it to get a return on your investment?
Only $250? That’s a very average price for a knife of this quality now days.
Yeah, ill stick with my Morakniv.
For that much and it comes with a bottom of the barrel sheath!
Enough reason for not purchasing...
It's sad in this day in age a guy has to build a sheath to replace the crap that came with the blade...
@@jonjacobjingleheimerschmid3798 I’ve never got a sheath with any knife that I kept 😂, they’re all crap
@@jonjacobjingleheimerschmid3798 the sheath is great, what exactly do you have a problem with.
I have had this knife in my hands and you are not correct on the sheath.
Nearly 300 Euros here so more of a collection piece. My Mora Garberg will get the job done for less than a third.
Does look like a dam fine blade BUT not everyone can or wants to spend that much on a knife(if you ever met a REAL outdoor/off grid living mountain man Id put money on it’ll be very unlikely he’ll be carrying a $250 knife !) , for the price of that 1 knife I could pickup a bundle of knives from the likes of Mora/BPS/ESEE/etc . Ultimately it comes down to the price your willing to pay for a blade , but we all know once you pass a certain price threshold then until you reach the next price range they’re all basically the same quality the only difference is the steel type and the shape .
Ps a lot commenting on “it’s American made” so it must be good , really ? Because unless the original steel is custom forged(very unlikely in that price bracket) then it’s been made from commercially sourced steel that’s more than likely been made in the far east anyway !
I've had my Ursus 45 for about a year and a half at this point. Two summers of camping hiking, adventure motorcycling, and Jeeping and it has been my go-to belt knife the whole time. Comfortable, capable, reliable, no drama. It just works without fuss or bother. That is the win right there. If I am headed away from cell service it is with me, be stupid not to have it. I have a few other fixed blades and it isn't the knife I send beginners to, but this is the last one I think I'll need.
I think White River knives are overlooked and I’m not sure why either. They always produce high-quality craftsmanship and functional knives. I have the backpacker from White River and it’s the most comfortable knife that I’ve ever held. Thanks for sharing your review.
I've been toting a Hunter every chance I get, and it's a dandy edc knife. Very well made. I love the ergonomics, and the sheath is very good.
White River knives in general are awesome and totally underrated. I have the M1 and the hunter and absolutely love them
Awesome!! I am going to pick up some other designs soon.
Please do the Firecrafter series @@gideonstactical
I own six whiteriver 3 adventure craft and 1 adventure craft 4 and 2 fc3.5 pros and they r all awesome knives
You should check out the exdous knife and tool adventure craft it's made by white river knives
I'm not exactly surprised people aren't talking about it. It reminds me of the Lionsteel m5 but that's about $100 cheaper or the QSP Bison for about $170 less. You also have the Esee 4 at around 150. For a knife to get talked about it needs to exceed expectations in some way and at the price point just being a good knife isn't wooing most people.
G'day mate, fair comment. Though not sure, at last look anyway, the M5 is that much cheaper here in oz, or the ESEEs, for that matter, but still, point well taken. Cheers Duke.
@@eyeofthetiger4184 That's completely fair I have no idea what the situation looks like overseas those were just as a US buyer because that's what I am. If that's not the case elsewhere then there might be some other factor keeping this knife out of the spotlight.
@@gnomersy1087 Thanks for the reply mate. FYI; we do have access locally to the fair majority of the good stuff you guys get, though at times I have had to order direct from the U.S, or Europe, to obtain a totally compelling piece of kit. But often, (in fairness, not always), the killer is shipping and/or currency conversion, ..... especially for an individual.
As far as this particular knife goes, what can I say, other than the market is well and truly flooded....... yes a good thing in some respects, .......but does tend to "camouflage" some rippers, particularly from smaller enterprises. It must be pain in Aaron's, and other reviewer's, arses, to keep across, even a decent percentage, of them all, lol.
@@eyeofthetiger4184 Yes. As I mentioned, we are absolutely spoiled with excellent choices for knives. I love inexpensive Moras and some not so inexpensive customs I have. Not to mention some in between that range. It just depends on what you like.
And what quality materials are the cheap knives made from? The better the materials and craftsmanship, the greater the price.
S35vn is the perfect stainless field knife steel, in my opinion. Holds an edge, but it'd not hard to put it back if you do lose it, and it responds to a strop really well.
Actually, that would be Magnacut
Magnacut is basically a better S35vn. Does almost everything better
simplistic workhorses are the backbone of utility tools. I would rather have a capable "boring" design, than something with a lot of flash, and no bang. there is a good reason that basic spear point designs never stop showing up. the only S35 blade I have so far is an Alan Folts made minimalist. while I do really like that knife, it is a 2.875 Persian blade necker, so not really suited for hard use testing. This is a very good size and blade shape for belt carry. this is a size that I tend to gravitate to for my belt carry. larger knives tend to wind up in my pack, to pull out when it is required, but so many of the day to day use tasks the 4-5" blade is more than enough. this does look like a really solid option.
Good looking knife for $250. but look at the Buck Pursuit Pro Large 4.5" Fixed Blade Knife - S35VN / Orange
Price is a big issue. Its not that i cant afford 250 bucks . Its i refuse to pay that for a knife. These knife mfg are going to soon push the prices so high the market will crash. There are plenty of knives that will do anything that knife will do for 1/2 the price maybe less.
S35vn is great steel. But it just doesn’t feel like a great purchase in 2023. Magnacut is supposed to be reasonably priced. It’s basically the replacement for s35vn. White river knives are as nice as any custom. Hands down the nicest fit and finish. They just need to hurry up and make the switch.
I have had an Ursus 45 for 5 years now and love it. Their S35VN heat treat seems spot on. Thick stock steel with a good high grind and good handle design make it a great multipurpose knife. I got it as a deer knife to replace a knife in S30V. The S35VN seems to tolerate incidental bone contact better and seems a bit more steel and strop friendly.
Have you batoned little kindling with it? How has it held up?
It's on my to get list for sure. I have their Hunter, and it's a great edc fixed blade.
It looks VERY similar to my architect 5.5 from the Knife Connection (3V first production run, made by TOPS). Similar shape, handle and sheath. As you say and demonstrate, a great if simplistic design. Basically a bushcraft handle on a more typical survival/hunting blade. White River makes great knives, I have the M1 and it is a great EDC fixed blade! Those Bradfords are great too, I have the 3.5 and 5.5 in 3V. Good review!
Actually reminds me of the Fieldmaster knife that MCQ Bushcraft had custom made for him.
Wow thats a great knife. Sad to see how many people have been impacted by unrealistic prices for things from China (slave labor with garbage QC and materials) that dont last. This aint one of those things
It looks really close to a few knives Bark River does that I have eye balled before... is there any relationship between Bark River Knives and White River? Perhaps not but I think your right, this one really catches my eye. I have a few S35Vn knives, definitely harder to sharpen vs other steels. Not for people that arent very experienced at sharpening.
Own the 3V version as well with the black blade variant. It’s hard to convey just how good it feels in the hand. I was fortunate to get mine at blade show for $175 and it’s been nothing but spectacular.
You're lucky to have it in 3v!
I recently picked up an Ursus 45 in 3V and can tell you that it quickly has become my favorite knife. A terrific package from sheath to blade.
Bro!!! So glad you finally got this knife and reviewed it. I got the layered green/black handled version with the traditional leather sheath from Sportsman’s a few years back and still love it everyday despite it not being kydex. The ergos are phenomenal as I think white river designs their handles, in general, to fit the hand very well. Also, I love the fact that the spine corners are knocked down just a touch near the handle for your thumb placement and out by the tip it’s sharper for striking. It’s probably one of my favorites, if not my favorite general all purpose fixed knife of all time for the outdoors. S35VN and their heat treat is fantastic, it’s very well rounded and easy to put an edge back on. The stone wash is gorgeous as well. Loyal to mine for sure. I take it camping with me to the San Juans and Sangre de Cristos every year. Still love my Kuhl Burr jacket you reviewed a while back. Thanks bro!
Also a good jacket!
To me it brings to mind some of the Joker and Architect knives.
Totally like my Joker Ursa...only with a kydex sheath and no CVM625 steel
Knife prices have gotten rediculous. Winkler knives dont seem so expensive now. Try and resell your knife on the used market and then youll see what that is actually worth.
I'm wearing my White River M1 Caper right now. Incredible little fixed blade. This Ursus looks amazing as well.
Couldn't agree more!
Thanks for the video, man!! Very nice blade. What do you think about the Esee 4 in s35vn? How come there are not many reviews of it, even by Esee. It's like they don't care for it. I think it's the best 4-inch knife in s35vn. Be safe.
I am not a fan of the ESEE 4 or ESEE 3 designs. No need for a choil on this size a knife and too thick on the 4.
The ESEE 3 in S35VN is my EDC work knife. I have the 4 also but with aftermarket scales. I agree that they are nice blades. I haven’t done much woodcraft with either but they have preformed every task Iv asked of them well.
Beautiful outdoor knife. I prefer S30V for camp knives as its a bit less chippy and quicker to sharpen but I've got no problems with S35VN.
Funny because one the reasons why S35VN was done by crucible and Chris Reeve was to provide a slightly better performance of the steel compared to S30V. And that means that toughness should be better as well. But it depends on the HT, as always.
S30v vs s35vn with optimal heat treats, s35vn was designed to be significantly tougher then s30v. I personally love s30v and really don't care to much for s35vn as it just looses its aggression to quickly but that doesn't change the fact that s35vn is significantly tougher and less chippy then s30v. That is assuming equal quality of heat treat with both steels ran in their optimal hardness range. At 58-60hrc s35vn will be notably tougher in a hard use knife then s30v will as well as being notably quicker to touch up on the stones then s30v will be. WRKs absolutely made a better choice (I hate to say it) going with s35vn in this knife design then s30v. With the geometry and intended use case for this knife they would have been dealing with broken tips and chipped out edges if they had went s30v. For ask fantastic of a steel as well done s30v is for pocket knives and lighter duty fixed blades... it has no place in a knife like this with the type of uses these knives are typically used for. S35vn or s45vn is an ideal steel for this knife in a stainless version. Personally I really wish they would do it in cpm 440v/S60V and I would buy one in a heart beat.. s30v is a great steel and a damn good performer but not suited well for this type of knife with the use case it's designed to fill. Maybe they should make us a budget version of it for like 150 and do it in 14c28n or better yet 19c27 as a stainless option and 80crv2 as a nonstainless option!!! That would be a kickass 150 dollar Knife that would sell like wildfire spreads I bet!
how would you compare that knife vs the italian made one you reviewed the Lion steel blade, which is alot more money bigger blade but as far as performances/tasks.......
The most I have ever spent on a knife was $200, and maybe a little more. And I never use those knives because there is too much of a risk of losing one or having it get scratched up and damaged. I have learned that when things are expensive or uncomfortable / heavy, they are often the last things I will reach for.
I've had a bk16 for 10yrs that I use for everything. For a belt knife I'm not impressed for the price. It will fade away quickly.
I would say this is the primary reason this knife isn't some viral knife. You need to get a knife in the sub $100 range so that the average person can buy it and feel comfortable beating the crap out of it daily or it is a show piece.
Why’d you buy it you’re not gonna use it? I have several 3-500 knives that I’ve put through the ringer.
@@taphillips75 I have plenty of sub $100 knives for various uses. This $250 knife won't do anything extra my other knives won't do.
I have some fun knives that were high on price but its mora's that are in my bug out bags. Just got a pair of Odenwolf's. Same reason.
I HAVE MY MACHETE VERY SHARP AND READY FOR WHATEVER IN THE FORESTER MOUNTAINS ⛰️🇺🇸💪🏼
The White River FC series is so awesome. I prefer the FC5.
It is a better size than my FC7 if you are gonna wear it everyday, the FC7 makes a better pack knife though I think.
Haha bro , ya cannot use cardboard for a sharpness test , butter knife could do that , lol...Phone book paper is the real test …💪
Crown the Spine of that Handle, Convex the Secondary edge ...and I'll ask you to please shut-up and just take my money, Sir!!!
Video request…
Best knives in the $100-150 price range with blades 4-5 inches for field use
You got it!!! I’ll see what I get and can do to try and make that happen before the end of the year.
@@gideonstactical you rock man
Great review of a beautiful knife. White River makes some nice stuff!!!! Just picked up a smaller fixed blade....L T Wright Bushcrafter that has a very similar shaped handle in Python Micarta...that comes with a beautiful Leather sheath...
I bought mine about one month before you did this video and got it for around $200. When you consider the price of a TOPS or Essee, now usually just around $180 for 1095 steel, it's worth it. It's a great value. Like you said, the sheath alone is great quality and well thought out in design. Essee and White River both have the same warranty except I'm not sure whether White River has the "no questions asked" part.
Got 2 in 3V. Several other white rivers that don’t get reviewed that are great value.
$249.00 probably the reason.
There are other well built
Knives that will do exact same job.
$249 says it all.
Morakniv. Just as capable in a pinch. Gerber Strong Arm? Take the $100 saved and hit the bar for drinks.
Let's all take a moment to appreciate a knife review that ACTUALLY SAYS the cost!!!
I block all channels that don't. Stumbled on this. Subbing, for transparency.
Really appreciate it. I always give the cost and some other options in every video. Welcome to the GT Crew!
Yes I just watched your video on brush knives and I get where your coming from,and I guess you can call me old School 🏫🎒 but I believe that the very best knive you can have that is if you have the skill to do it making your own knives and what I meen is that you design it you customize it to your taste and so on Sir
Because there’s 100,000,000,000 different models of knives and it’s turning people insane.
That is a monster of a knife . Thanks for showcasing such a fine knife.
Love this knife, the Ursus 45 is my favorite. I have a video on my channel about it and I show the best sheath mod for it, especially the older sheaths that seemed to be much, much tighter and im not talking about modifying the actual sheath itself. Its worth checking out lol.
I have nothing against White River, but I am squarely in the Bark River camp for most of my fixed blade knife desires these days. As for Magnacut, sure, it is a great steel innovation, but, personally, I would like to see more options toward S35VN or CPM 3V to get those same new designs at cheaper prices. Magnacut it *way* more expensive than most other steels just because it is so new.
I'd love to see a review of the Ursus Cub Magnacut now that its out. It looks great, but I worry about handle size.
White river has great knives and sheaths. The haters dont know yet lol
I was on the fence between this and the FC4, and I went with the FC4.
How is it been performing for you so far?
@@gideonstactical The two were on the table in front of me, and I wanted something a little smaller for camping. I like the size and performance of the fc4, but often I wish I had a thicker grip. Also the bow drill hole on the fc4 began to bother me more than I thought it would. Kind of a bummer... I should have gone with the ursus.
Ok so ursus 45 S35VN/3V or tops field craft BOB 154cm?
Wait..... Or the Tops Brush Wolf? I want them all but just looking for a one knife to rule them all jic 💩 happens
Ursus 45, s35vn tends to have better edge or attention but 3V steel will be tougher, so depending on what you care about more will be the version to go with.
@@gideonstactical thanks brother 🤙🏼 love the videos and information you put out. Keep up the great work.
My wife bought me this as a gift last year and it has became my favorite piece in my collection. I originally hinted to her on their firecraft 4 knife but she said she liked the looks of this one better and I’m sooo glad she did! This knife has everything i look for in a fixed blade for my use!
You married a unicorn. A, she bought you a knife. B, she got you a quality knife. C. She picked a great design. Way to go!
Seems a steep price for s35vn. I’d go GSO 4.5 with much sexier steel or an LT Wright.
@@hendrikgarnkaufer5488 fair point! The wait is insane with a GSO. I ordered that exact blade, 4.5 K890 scandi. I do like the design of the Urus. Should be fun!
@@hendrikgarnkaufer5488 I anticipate months, but we’ll see. I have three of their knifes already and they’re all impeccable. Excited to see what K890 is all about. Sounds like an improvement over cpm 3V, which would be amazing. How’s the S35vn? I always thought that was a small folder type of steel, not chippy in a larger blade?
@@hendrikgarnkaufer5488 I have the same problem! Haha. Cheers
I drove 300 kilometers to buy it, once there I was disappointed, for myself too small handle and ergonomics! In addition, the knife remained stuck in the sheath ! but very nice knife !! here in Québec is 340$ excellent review as usual ! thanks
Oh man! I am sorry to hear that!!
@@gideonstactical thank you ! we can't like them all and i enjoyed the ride !!! on the other hand i liked more my "Nomad Joker "for $129"
Just happy to see that someone is able to do this and have success
I can buy 2 buck 119 for that I still have 50 bucks left over.
I love mine! Haven't seen many videos AT ALL. Glad you did this vid. I tend ti carry it as an edc, actually
Nice!!
At 70+ years old I'm not about to be conned into spending $250 on a single knife that can't outperform any of those I already have. Hell, a Mora Bushcraft Black will probably last longer than the years I have left, but so would an Old Hickory butcher knife that's already 30 years and going. Very bait snd switch of you for a title like that and then the content. You've come a long way from your early days but now you're, with a very few exceptions, into solid Gucci level territory.
I was excited until “S35VN” Way too chippy for me
Sure looks nice. I like it. My kind of belt knife. Very usable.
I have two models from White River... 3" BackPacker original w/ paracord & 3.5" FireCraft w/ HI VIS green G-10... both in stonewashed S35VN steel. Fit, finish workmanship & all materials are very good. The little yet very precise design of the Backpacker is highly suitable for use on PFDs (life-vests) as a great knife rafting. Some might suggest a blunt tip, serrations, and marginal steel selections for such a river-ready tool... however... professionally, for all-rounder use, fish/game prep, rescue/recovery, crafting, first aid, and various repair tasks... all those crappy 'looks cool trendy' river knives are relatively junk by comparison. FireCraft is an interesting niche knife. If/when I'm going White River as a selection... I'll look at 'em for very specific more niche vs. general camp task knives. In other words = I would not select this Ursus, likely not s35vn for steel choice, and especially at this sort of price point. I do feel it is quality with the attention to detail there, and a good company... just likely not the way I'd go, and would not view it as a go-to for most.
TH-camr Joe X . Broke that knife 10 min into the video it broke ez tip test
Thanks for the info. Still love it and worked. Well for me
Why over pay. So many knives with a cheaper price with the same quality.
Have two of them. I love these knives. Good geometry, good steel and a comfortable handle. I use it alongside with the White River Exodus. A great combination.
I have one and i love it,also have a M1 as Neck Knife.Greetings from Germany.
Great review.... I have a big crush on this knife... The craftsmenship and the attention to design details is very good. That knife also has a rounded spine near the handle for just over an inch that transitions to a 90° for striking ferro rods... Just very well thought out.
FYI - They have a new smaller version of this model, called the Ursus Cub. I think it is in Magnacut...
If have some thinking to do....
S35VN is an all around good choice for an outdoor workhouse. Years ago I fell for the 1095 ESEE trend and bought a couple. They simply dull too damn fast. Sure, super easy to bring the edge back, but I don't want to stop to do that in the middle of tasks. I love magnacut and cruwear as much as they next, but they're pretty steeply priced for a fixed blade. The price point for quality of this steel make it an ideal option. If I had extra money to blow, I'd get a magnacut fixed blade (do they even make one as beefy as that Ursus?)...but right now that extra money goes towards new guns and more ammo. If I were in the market for another fixed blade, I'd definitely give this one a shot. The handle is actually the selling point for me, with the dangler being a big bonus. They should all provide a dangler with kydex.
They just recently released a Reiff F4 in Magnacut which I believe is going to be absolutely worth checking out.
@@Huck_Finn0614 Yeah, but I could do without the "slightly hollow" part of the grind. Completely unnecessary, if not a bit of a liability.
People used rocks, bone, brass, copper and iron for thousands of years for cutting and you complain 1095 dulls to fast lol.
@@WoodsmanHobo777 That is in no way relevant. If people in the Neolithic era had Magnacut, do you think they'd say, "Naw, I'll stay with flint"?. Or how about the "Native Americans", did they just stick with stone tomahawks? Fuck no, they sold their soles for steel tomahawks and knives, then later muskets. That's the way of technology. And it was hundreds of thousands of years at a minimum, not just thousands. Run along back to the kids you half wit.
I'll take my 10yr old BK16 over those s35vn stainless blades. Not even because of the price I'm just comfortable with it and don't mind the little maintenance involved but I swear I can do everything you did in your review just as well. Sure I have an aftermarket sheath and a few mods. I'm not impressed for what you get.
No one is talking about the knife because it’s 250 in price and groceries keep going up under this 37 approval rated president!!
I have 2 or 3. White river knives. There really nice knives. Like all of them.
I have this knife and 2 other white rivers. All their knives are superb. The model 1 is a great every day carry and i also have the hunter, its basic a smaller thinner version of the Ursus, the hunter is a great all around camp knife but is just a bit better in food prep than the monster Ursus
For women the thickness of the grip is important. Don’t forget to include us!! I like the thinner grip for my hand.
It makes it a bit complicated when you can’t hold one before buying. More online time to search out affordable options and brands. Thank you for considering including women in reviews in future videos
Hello from Austria, I‘ve recently picked up an Ursus 45, awesome blade. Just a quick question, please: is the spine supposed to be really, really sharp? I’ve read it‘s supposed to be sharp to allow striking a ferrorod. But mine is super sharp, almost uncomfortable, with a tiny burr which I can feel on the edge of the spine with my fingernail. Is that within tolerance? I also own a Cub which is not as sharp on the spine. Also, I do not feel a burr on the Cub‘s spine. Thanks!
Interesting. Mine is sharp but I don’t no know if it is that sharp.
The price honestly is not bad for what you get. Properly ground, heated bushcraft knife with a tough CPM steel known for above average toughness for a vanadium rich stainless, and a nice kydex sheath
FFS, How much is it ??
Price is the number one Question!
I have a Cold Steel Recon with that steel and I’m happy with it.
Dislike the flat grind personally. I like scandi and convex.
it looks like a nice blade. Why does it have to cost so damn much?
Love all your reviews man great job as all ways.. I'm looking at the White River GTI 4.5 Fixed Blade Knife can you have a look at it if posable... thanks
Thanks so much I will look into that one.
Too expensive, stainless steel.
In that size, at that price Im taking a bark river Aurora or LT Wright GNS as my all purpose belt knife.
If i really wanted a 4.5" prybar i could get an esee 4p for less than half the price.
Prybar??? This thing is 0.158” with a high grind. Not sure how thing you like your blades but that’s a really nice balance to me in the geometry worked really well. It’s not a Becker BK2
Love my ursus but carry my exodus 3 daily its an awesome edc fixed blade that also gets way overlooked
I can't see myself dropping that dough on a knife, but I surely appreciate the info and work on this video. Subved ya!
Awesome! Thanks so much for being apart of the channel!!
Can you do a review on the White River GTI 4.5
If you can find one - Please review a Montana Knife Company Magnacut Stonewall Skinner. Thank you!!
I have 3 MKC knives coming
i would walk over corpses for an fc7 with 3v
Holy crap, I’ve been watching you for years and apparently I never subscribed. Fixed. Keep up the good work!
Right on! Thanks and officially Welcome to the GT Crew!
Yeah I told you to get this knife but you didn't listen
Have you ever done a top 5 utility/belt knife under 5”?
How about a top five 5” - 6” camp/bushcraft knife?
I am working on that type of video right now!!
Which would you pick between the Bradford 5.5 Guardian and this White River?
White River better sheaths and ergos. The Bradford had the better steel 3V
I’ve got one in 3v from DLT it’s one and done knife
looks like a steak knife from a fancy restaurant!
URSUS 45 is an excellent knife but the FC7 is their best blade. Probably my favorite production fixed blade.
I love the leather dangler sheath that comes with the FC7 as well. Hands down the best looking leather sheath I have ever seen. Very comfortable to wear for such a big knife too.
OK I have to get it now! Let’s find out
@@Doobie603
Mine came with a kydex dangler sheath.
@@Doobie603that handle looks too thin and that funky index finger choil looks like a hotspot on the FC7. It’s comfortable? Looks like too much going on.
@@shamitoson
Handle felt small out of the box & I was rather concerned but (for me at least) it doesn't actually cause any issue or fatigue while feathersticking or cutting, & it works quite well when maneuvering for notching & such.
I personally find it to be quite ergonomic.
Be interesting to see if the handle poses any issues for people with larger hands.
Be confident. Stop using just for men.
I'm glad you love the Ursus 45 as much as I do. I have the DLT exclusive in 3V and loved it so much that immediately bought one for my brother and his kids to use on their hikes. It's the complete package right out of the box (not to mention that box that it comes in is A+ presentation!) with dangler sheath and fire steel. A small detail that I love is the angled sharpening choil so things slide up onto the edge instead of getting caught there when cutting. This is easily in my top 5 belt knives and my go-to recommendation for a more premium USA made hiking companion knife.
The detail about the choil is badly overlooked which is why i tend to avoid used knives where the owner added a sharpening choil.
Jesus Christ 250 bucks. Good lord
I've had one of these for almost 2 years now. It really is a great knife.
Just wondering how many Mora Kanbols I could buy for the price of that knife ?
Probably 7 I would think
Just happened across the same knife yesterday. But at $180.00 bucks I’ll pass.
Well, I don’t know where you saw for 180 that’s a steal! I got it on a sale at Sportsmans warehouse for 215.
I bet they will be sold out for a while after this video.
Can’t recall the site but thanks to Biden it’s out of the question.@@gideonstactical
Condor camp knives are half the price and work great! I Like the review also own a white river.
Thanks for the review Aaron! This or the Joker Lynx?
This will have better sheath, steel, and fit and finish. But the Lynx is good for the Money 👍
Awesome cheers brother 👍
I live very close to where these knives are made. Theres a local gun and knife show every couple months, and theres always a booth with a guy who gets a bunch of "blemish" models to sell for them. The "blemishes" are incredibly minor and they sell them at a huge discount. Last time i was there he had a dlc coated version of this knife that had a super small area that didnt get as thick of coating, and he was selling it for $185. Wish i would've picked it up.
Nice man! I’ve been holding out on getting a full tang. I my pull the trigger on this one
Good choice!
Where the heck does “Slicey” come from? Just creating knife nerd lingo?
For real my fellow blade brother, you know you got to be 100% down will all the slicey and dicey lingo if you are a true knifey for lifey aficionado!