The companion hd can be modded very easy to get the features the bushcraft has: grind the 90° angle on spine , patina the blade in vinegar to stop rust and protect the blade also makes the blade back, also you can do many sheath mods to make them amazing.
Kirk one of the most honest to the point reviews! You said it at "Use the knife for the task it was designed for" Knowing it will do more with out proving it when it is needed, is a good feeling. I carry 2 to 3 different knives, for the job at hand.
Nothing wrong with having a bushcraft knife _and_ a survival knife! Just refine the spine edge on that companion and you can throw all the sparks that your heart desires. I edc my companion ($11/free shipping on ebay) for the most part, haven't done any testing with my black yet, though. Nice video :)
Very good review. Fair and to the point. You made an excellent point about knowing the intended use for a tool. I've been guilty of buying some nerves just because I like something about them, without really giving it any thought about what that knife was really designed for. I search for ways to use the knives, but they generally just get left at home.
Either one will work just fine. The companion heavy duty is about half the price of the bushcraft black. And you'll get plenty of capability with the heavy duty. At that price, it may be a good knife to start with. -Krik
My black has the tiny second bevel too. I guess its for adding a touch more durability? I would prefer it without because its a bit duller than the other moras I have.
I'm a huge Garberg fan and when it first came out I was one of the many who complained about the price. Fortunately I scored one back when Amazon had them for $57, the Garberg has proven its worth and IMHO is rightfully worthy of a $70 price point. The Black on the other hand has no reason to be in the $50-$70, my Mora HQ Robust with some Gunblue coating and a 5 minute file job on the spine and presto you got yourself a Bushcraft HQ Robust "Black". The Bushcraft black has the same carbon steel same thickness same rubber over mold grip and plastic sheath, a complete marketing scam. The Garberg has 14C28N Steel with a better in house heat treatment, a full tang that is actually quite big. It also has a nice new grip material that kicks butt IMHO and is NOT some cheap plastic like some reviewers and haters say. After using the knife for 5 months I've learned that the grip becomes smoother and feels a lot like micarta, its tough as nails. The 14C sandvik steel is awesome I've had no rolls or chipping and the balance is awesome. To sum it all up, the Garberg is the real deal worth every penny, the Bushcraft Black is the real deal to and should be $25-$30 of worthy penny's😅 Imho If people want to pay that much and believe that its worth $40 more than a Companion HD or HQ Robust so be it, who am I to stand in their way. What bugs me though are the folks who bought a Bushcraft Black for $50-$60 and now are those who trash talk the Garberg and freak out over its price?????? completely ridiculous if ya think about it.
Mora Black knife March 2017 is now anywhere from $94 to $106 here in Canada, glad I purchased mine when it was $60 back in 2015! This is a great knife for what I use it for, it was money well spent.
Given the major price difference, I'd go with the HD SS Companion over the Bushcraft carbon, all day. Also, It's easy to file the HD Companion's rounded spine into a flat 90 degree grind for easy ferro rod sparking. Plus, SS requires much less maintenance than does carbon steel, especially in humid weather, where a carbon blade will rust and stain easily. However, it is simple to patina carbon steel with vinegar. This will reduce rusting quite well. So to balance out the similarities and differences between the two knives, both are virtually equal, in my opinion. Only the price is different.
I live in Australia the MG HD is still about $20 here but the BC Black is $70 so there is no comparison at $70 it's in another category. I have 2 MG's one for myself as a secondary knife and one for my son. I put a 90 degree spine on it and modified the sheath to carry firesteel/striker about 3m paracord and a paracord 'dangler' set up plus I added a lanyard which helps keep the blade in the sheath. My point to all this is that my 20 dollar knife is now a fully functioning bushcraft knife, the bushcraft black is a senseless indulgence.
+LIVE2HUNT it probably took 30 minutes to modify the knife, and he saved about $50, that means his labor was priced at about $100 an hour to mod a knife. I'd say that's well worth it.
+Justin Packard again, still "modified" a knife that he didnt have to, but wanted to. For me, the bushcraft black's added thickness (1/8 inch) is a selling point. Asthethically, I like it better too.
Good analogy on the Mora's and I'd have to concur that the black isn't really worth twice the price of the Mora heavy duty MG. I've just brought myself the Mora MG: Took a rat tail file to the spine of the knife, filed in grooves so that a firesteel will work with the knife, then applied gun-blue on the spine of the knife as a weatherproof substitute - Works a treat. -All the best from the otherside of the pond.
Really excellent video. Something to note for anyone choosing between these two knives, whilst the Heavy Duty cannot use a firesteel out of the back, using a dremel tool, or grinding wheel, or even a file, you can make a nice rough surface of about an inch or two on the spine, and that will throw sparks. A very easy mod, if that's something your after.
those who are considering i'll throw in what i learnt of the two, a Japanese youtuber virtuovice that I follow and he's a very good vlogger too he previously mentioned that Mora's Bushcraft series have deeper tang length into handle than Companion series. it is confirmed because he had access to x-ray so he was able to show the comparisons. so that's one plus. I personally have a regular Companion carbon and I recently purchased Bushcraft Forest (with dual knife profile grind) with great influence from virtuovice's (so thanks doctor). i find both awesome. have fun y'all!
Excellent video, and excellent advice. Thanks for sharing. Just picked up a Companion (my first Mora), yesterday. INCREDIBLE value. $27.00 Canadian dollars. Lose it, break it, lend it out...it's twenty-seven dollars. WOW. I'll be getting a few more, and most likely both of these. File down the spine on the HD and it'll throw sparks just fine. PEACE!
Most of the time I carry the Mora Companion HD, Ka-Bar Becker BK2 and Bahco Laplander saw for wood processing and carving which works perfectly for up to 4 inch trees which is the biggest anyone needs to do unless its a winter camp situation than an axe and large saw is great. I have a nice Wetterling scandi forest axe and in search of a good saw to pair it with. Oh and something on my wish list that you may want to check out is the Flexcut Carving Jack.
GREAT vid young man thank you,I've used the same Mora companion knife for over twenty years for field dressing Deer,knife is perfect.YOU can't beat a Mora.I was about to purchase the Enzo trapper price 130 dollars but I think I'll be buying the Mora Black.I have a big collection of Scandinavian knives Helle martini Mora but they are on display in the gun room.THE Mora companion does all my jobs.Stay safe.
The Bushcraft Black comes with a clip as well. The sheath on the companion is much better, no rattle like the BB and it has the thumb ramp which is much better than the BB's.
Update needed....the heavy duty throws sparks just fine if u strike toward the point on the spine, furthermore if you take 30 second with a file u can square off the back VERY easily
Equator Bushcraft channel says the same about the Mora Companion sheath's lack of secure hold on the knife. I have one and I would testify to that. The clip on the other hand would never come off your belt in a million years.
I really appreciate your perspective in the end, brother. About folks who hammer on a purpose-built camp utility knife like a Mora because it's not an indestructible sharpened prybar like a 'survival'. Also the part about survival not being fun or a game. Also, a note on the sheath. A knife designed elegantly like the Swedish style bushcraft knives is very easy to make deep carry leather sheaths for as long as the handle isn't riddled with finger choils.
I just subed a few days ago and I gotta say I have been enjoying you simple and straight forward reviews and info vids. Thanks for them and keep them comin!
The clip point part of the spine on the Companion HD, is squared off and will strike a firesteel. The top of the spine is rounded and willl not. Tried it on mine, and works fine. Same deal with the Bushcraft Triflex, only that clip point part of the spine is squared nicely. Best Regards.
Mora companion heavy duty is 3.2mm and only comes in carbon steel correct? And the regular companion comes in 2.5 mm stainless only? The Bushcraft black is also the same 3.2mm carbon steel as the HD companion? I guess I'm curious if there is a HD-companion in 3.2 mm stainless steel?
Dave Canterbury has a video to flatten the spine of the blade to give it that sharp 90 degree edge for throwing sparks. Great mod to the cheaper version if you don't have the budget for the BC Black.
Had the same Q's in my mind before seeing this video. Glad you came to the same conclusion as me! I went for the HD. Battoning is really hatchet work anyway. Like you say, it isn't about survival, it's about fun.
Really like your insight on survival. And your right, if there's a chance you'll get lost bring a survival knife. But it's also true that the knife your have on you IS the survival knife.
Just got a Bushcraft Black today and sheath came with both attachments. First Morakniv in my collection. Probably cwon' be the last. Like the comparison.
I have the mg hd already so it was interesting to see the comparison. I think today im going to do the file work on the spine and look at how to do bluing or patina on it.
I really liked your observations on survival (starting around 9:35). I completely agree about what you call "that good stuff"-having a good time in the outdoors and building outdoor tools-as opposed to actual "survival," which isn't fun. (I'd say "that good stuff" can be described as "bushcraft," but everyone seems to have a different meaning for that term, which is perhaps why you avoided using it.)
How well does the diamond black coating hold up on the bush craft black knife? I know with most coatings, they begin to wear off and look ugly and abused after batoning a few logs. Thanks!
we've put this knife through a decent set of paces and the coating still looks good. it isn't like some of the traction coatings used by other knife manufacturers that comes off after processing a few logs. but only time will tell. thanks for watching! - stony
In February the black was selling for $27. The other day I saw a dealer who had one for sale for $91. The sudden rave talk that went around about this knife this summer has pushed the price through the roof. That aside I really like the knife. I have both the orange and black. The orange is nice because it is easy to see when you look for it in camp. It is just as good a knife as the black. The only difference that is now rectified by Mora, was that the handle was plastic on the orange. Now it is rubber. So I think from my use that you nailed it Krik. The HD Companion, the Black, the Orange, and the Robust are all about the same knife and they each have features that are unique and will suit different people. But just because the black has gotten a little more attention, and is a little more pricey, that doesn't make it a better knife. If I had to do it again, I think I would just buy the orange and say "done".
I couldn't make up my mind, so I bought them both. Can't say I am disapointed in either. I still can't say which I truly prefer; both are great knives.You get less than 1/4 of an inch longer blade with the black. Same thickness, same blade shape, etc. Can't go wrong with either.
The spine of the companion knives are polished and don't have a sharp 90% angle for use with fero rods. With the BC Black, Mora intentionally gave it a sharper spine. Apparently it is quite easy to grind/file the spine of the companion to make it work, though. In an emergency, of cource, you could always use the sharp edge of the blade.
As is comes the companion knives won't throw sparks because the spines are rounded from the stamping process. However just a little time with a file, dremel, or something like that to square up the spine and they will throw sparks from a fire steel very well.
Just got a Mora HD Companion today for $15. Perfect knife. The Bushcraft is better in almost every way, but not $25 dollars more. Anyway awesome video Krik, love your videos.
Be honest with you Krik the thinness of the 3 and it's large belly is what I attribute it to. Both 3's I have the coating as well. I imagine the non coated 3's are going to be even sicker at cutting and slicing.
Been told when the Mora plastic sheaths get a little loose, warm up the top of the sheath with a hairdryer, put the knife back in sheath and squeeze it back around the handle of the knife. My Robust Pro sheath is getting loose so I'll be putting my money where my mouth is soon. If it works I'll come back here and mention it. Thanks for the review!
You make a great point, Its totally depends on what you are using it for. I am using mine for a wood cutting knife in a Hunting Day Pack just in case I need to make a fire and to help me make a shelter. I like the Bushcraft Black only because it feels better in weight and gives a little more confidence. Both are good for what I will use it for but they are not survival knifes. Both are light enough to carry in a small bag and for a night or two, should meet all my needs. Thanks for the video!
I forgot to also say. It only stands to reason a thinner blade regardless of grind is going to cut better. I think it's a loaded question when asking if a FFG is better on a thinner blade than on a larger blade. Because me thinks your talking stock size. And of course thicker the stock in general the more obtuse the grind is going to be. 20DPS on 3/16's is going to be thicker still than on a 1/8 inch stock size.
That's interesting your 3 cuts better than your Moras. I mean, I believe you. Do you think a flat grind works MUCH better on a thinner blade? As opposed to a larger blade? I can see that being a possibility. What are your thoughts? -Krik
good vid very fair i own the mora mg and mora robust HQ. your right about not throwing sparks way i fixed that was to cut about one inch of jimping with a dremel tool on top of blade, now it throws sparks really well. again great video keep them coming
They're made of carbon steel, which is more prone to rust than stainless steel. Mora makes stainless versions too but they won't get as sharp as their carbon counterparts
Just be sure to wipe them down with your shirt or a bandanna (or a towel if you're at home) to get moisture off, then oil them. You should do that with all knives actually, even stainless (despite common belief, stainless steel will rust if you leave it in a wet leather sheath for a year or 2. I found out the hard way). Your knives will last longer.
You can make a small (1 1/2 inch) loop out of paracord and tie it through the belt clip on the Comp HD. Then pull it over the butt-end of your knife when it's in the sheath. Knife's not going anywhere. Easy to make, easy to deploy. Some of the many Mora mods are part of the fun of owning the things. There's a cottage industry in how-to on this subject.
How come it says it has chemicals known to cause cancer? I just ordered mine and its showing that. Does the handle plastic have it? The metal? Can I clean off what its talking about?
Just about any kind of plastic, if subjected to the right tests, can be considered to have "chemicals known to cause cancer." Usually, it comes down to where you live whether or not companies have to put such info on their products. It is an old joke, for example, that just about everything is "known by the State of California to cause cancer." Unless you are planning to eat your knife's handle or holster or set it on fire and breathe the smoke, you should be fine. As an example, when they said aspertame (the sweetener in Sweet & Low and a lot of sugar-free stuff) could cause cancer, the judgement was based on animal testing on rats. For humans to get cancer from the same substance in the same way, you would basically have to eat several pounds of apertame at a time. Pretty much any substance in massive quantities will seriously mess up the human body. There is even the medical condition known as water toxicity when someone drinks enough water that their blood becomes dilluted. Maybe regulating agencies will one day have to mark bottled water as a toxic substance. :)
Thanks for this video. It helped me decide to go with the Bushcraft Black instead of the Companion Heavy Duty (Needed to strike a ferro rod. Found another video that explained why the Companion Heavy Duty couldn't). So thanks.
Great comparison. I agree that the Bushcraft is not worth twice as much as the Heavy Duty Companion. One thing that you said that I haven't heard anyone say before, that I think is important was, "Survival is not fun". Thank you for putting that out there, you may have saved someone by planting that seed in their brain. Survival is what you do when you're desperate and/or in an emergency situation. It's always good to be prepared, but you don't really want to be in a survival situation.
greg smit I heard a good definition of an adventure is 'somewhere you've always wanted to be unless you're there.' - Survival is much the same. I think you said it very well....thank you! {bowing deeply}
I think the Black is worth the money. I have both, and I think the longer tang on the black makes it a more heavy duty knife in general. I'm on the fence on grinds. I like scandi grinds, but my Esee 3's seem to cut and slice better than my Mora's. The handle on the black however is nice.
Im just starting off in bushcraft and i want to know if a mora companion hd and an old hickory butcher knife would be a good knife combination? Unfortunately many schrades, ka bars, and other high quality lower budget blades are quite expensive up here in canada, thanks.
Bryan JR Hey Bryan, I'd say that any Mora will work outstanding for carving and cuttings tasks. If you do plan on batoning your knife, which is fine and understandable, I would get the Mora Heavy Duty Companion. However if you plan on batoning wood larger than 2-3 inches, I'd recommend getting a second bigger knife for all other tasks that the Mora will not do or is not made for. Then I'd HIGHLY recommend getting the Bahco Laplander Folding Saw to complete your Cutting Tool set. So in essence: The Mora will do all your detailed carving and cutting and also food processing if you need it to. The Laplander Saw will cut both small and large wood across the grain and the bigger knife can be used to baton and split the wood down for Fire making. To answer your question, I know several guys who use an old hickory as their main knife for years. So I feel I can vouch for that as well. Send me a PM if you need any help. Take care.
Bryan JR One thing to keep in mind though, I don't believe the Old Hickory Knives come with sheaths. So getting a decent sheath for it might end up costing quite a bit.
Wow its been a while since i checked the replies, my apologies... But thanks very much! I think i'll definitely start off with the mora and slowly work my way up to more costly blades that are within budget, as for the hickory butcher and the sheath, it could prove to be a fun project!
My theory behind the second bevel - it emulates a convex edge for durability. Like NineFiveFox mentioned above - scandi grinds are prone to roll if you try to use them in that way. Everything is a trade off, I guess. -Krik
AWESOME BRO, answered everything i needed to know. I really wanted/needed to know the difference as i wanted to purchase one of them next week. So THANKS for direct comparison. i`ve made my decision. i`m getting BOTH!! LOL, BUT THE BLACK ROCKS!!!
The companion hd can be modded very easy to get the features the bushcraft has: grind the 90° angle on spine , patina the blade in vinegar to stop rust and protect the blade also makes the blade back, also you can do many sheath mods to make them amazing.
Will try these tips on my Mora Robust carbon👍
Which handle pummel is sturdier if someone wanted to add a lanyard hole mod?
Kirk one of the most honest to the point reviews! You said it at "Use the knife for the task it was designed for" Knowing it will do more with out proving it when it is needed, is a good feeling. I carry 2 to 3 different knives, for the job at hand.
Well said- I agree.
Take a pony tail elastic band and attach it to the belt clip double the elastic and hook it around the paumel of the knife handle !
Your draw of both knives in the first few seconds was spectacular. Love me a good comp video too, great job blokes
mora best knife for the money !!
Nothing wrong with having a bushcraft knife _and_ a survival knife! Just refine the spine edge on that companion and you can throw all the sparks that your heart desires. I edc my companion ($11/free shipping on ebay) for the most part, haven't done any testing with my black yet, though. Nice video :)
Thank you for the kind words. The camera person is my brother. I see some bushcraft/wood working videos in the nearer future. -Krik
Very good review. Fair and to the point. You made an excellent point about knowing the intended use for a tool. I've been guilty of buying some nerves just because I like something about them, without really giving it any thought about what that knife was really designed for. I search for ways to use the knives, but they generally just get left at home.
Either one will work just fine. The companion heavy duty is about half the price of the bushcraft black. And you'll get plenty of capability with the heavy duty. At that price, it may be a good knife to start with. -Krik
Not yet, though I will eventually. As you said in the video, it'd be nice to have as a back up, in case the striker itself is lost.
My black has the tiny second bevel too. I guess its for adding a touch more durability? I would prefer it without because its a bit duller than the other moras I have.
thanks for going out and purchasing these items to share with us like you do. Keep on keeping on and peace out brothers
I'm a huge Garberg fan and when it first came out I was one of the many who complained about the price. Fortunately I scored one back when Amazon had them for $57, the Garberg has proven its worth and IMHO is rightfully worthy of a $70 price point. The Black on the other hand has no reason to be in the $50-$70, my Mora HQ Robust with some Gunblue coating and a 5 minute file job on the spine and presto you got yourself a Bushcraft HQ Robust "Black". The Bushcraft black has the same carbon steel same thickness same rubber over mold grip and plastic sheath, a complete marketing scam.
The Garberg has 14C28N Steel with a better in house heat treatment, a full tang that is actually quite big. It also has a nice new grip material that kicks butt IMHO and is NOT some cheap plastic like some reviewers and haters say. After using the knife for 5 months I've learned that the grip becomes smoother and feels a lot like micarta, its tough as nails. The 14C sandvik steel is awesome I've had no rolls or chipping and the balance is awesome.
To sum it all up, the Garberg is the real deal worth every penny, the Bushcraft Black is the real deal to and should be $25-$30 of worthy penny's😅 Imho If people want to pay that much and believe that its worth $40 more than a Companion HD or HQ Robust so be it, who am I to stand in their way. What bugs me though are the folks who bought a Bushcraft Black for $50-$60 and now are those who trash talk the Garberg and freak out over its price?????? completely ridiculous if ya think about it.
you can mod the Companion to throw sparks easy, good job on the vid.
Thanks for the suggestion on the Mystic Tarpent. I'd like to get my hands on one and give a try. Thank you for watching. -Krik
Mora Black knife March 2017 is now anywhere from $94 to $106 here in Canada, glad I purchased mine when it was $60 back in 2015! This is a great knife for what I use it for, it was money well spent.
I am getting sea sick watching this one
Given the major price difference, I'd go with the HD SS Companion over the Bushcraft carbon, all day. Also, It's easy to file the HD Companion's rounded spine into a flat 90 degree grind for easy ferro rod sparking. Plus, SS requires much less maintenance than does carbon steel, especially in humid weather, where a carbon blade will rust and stain easily.
However, it is simple to patina carbon steel with vinegar. This will reduce rusting quite well.
So to balance out the similarities and differences between the two knives, both are virtually equal, in my opinion. Only the price is different.
I live in Australia the MG HD is still about $20 here but the BC Black is $70 so there is no comparison at $70 it's in another category. I have 2 MG's one for myself as a secondary knife and one for my son. I put a 90 degree spine on it and modified the sheath to carry firesteel/striker about 3m paracord and a paracord 'dangler' set up plus I added a lanyard which helps keep the blade in the sheath. My point to all this is that my 20 dollar knife is now a fully functioning bushcraft knife, the bushcraft black is a senseless indulgence.
Disagree. You had to modify the Companion. The BB is ready to rock right out of the box.
+LIVE2HUNT Maybe he enjoy the DIY process of improving his own knife? The satisfaction level is different from buying one off the shelve.
+LIVE2HUNT it probably took 30 minutes to modify the knife, and he saved about $50, that means his labor was priced at about $100 an hour to mod a knife. I'd say that's well worth it.
+Justin Packard agree to disagree. you're entitled to your opinion...
+Justin Packard again, still "modified" a knife that he didnt have to, but wanted to. For me, the bushcraft black's added thickness (1/8 inch) is a selling point. Asthethically, I like it better too.
Good analogy on the Mora's and I'd have to concur that the black isn't really worth twice the price of the Mora heavy duty MG.
I've just brought myself the Mora MG: Took a rat tail file to the spine of the knife, filed in grooves so that a firesteel will work with the knife, then applied gun-blue on the spine of the knife as a weatherproof substitute - Works a treat.
-All the best from the otherside of the pond.
fartunique great idea with the gun blue to re-weatherproof it! thanks for watching! - stony
Bonjour So which one is the best ?
Really excellent video.
Something to note for anyone choosing between these two knives, whilst the Heavy Duty cannot use a firesteel out of the back, using a dremel tool, or grinding wheel, or even a file, you can make a nice rough surface of about an inch or two on the spine, and that will throw sparks.
A very easy mod, if that's something your after.
As I have small hands would you suggest that I would get the thicker handled heavy duty or the normal companion
What is the difference between these two as compared to the Mora HighQ Robust?
Surely, as soon as you sharpen the scandi bevel on that black all of the dlc coating is coming off and onto your sharpening stones?
those who are considering i'll throw in what i learnt of the two,
a Japanese youtuber virtuovice that I follow and he's a very good vlogger too
he previously mentioned that Mora's Bushcraft series have deeper tang length into handle than Companion series. it is confirmed because he had access to x-ray so he was able to show the comparisons. so that's one plus.
I personally have a regular Companion carbon and I recently purchased Bushcraft Forest (with dual knife profile grind) with great influence from virtuovice's (so thanks doctor). i find both awesome.
have fun y'all!
Liked the way you wrapped this issue up, makes perfect sense. Excellent video!
An honest comparison you have made amigo. I own the Mora Companion F, Robust, and the MG knives and I trust all of them.
Can you interchange the sheaths without damage anything?
Excellent video, and excellent advice. Thanks for sharing. Just picked up a Companion (my first Mora), yesterday. INCREDIBLE value. $27.00 Canadian dollars. Lose it, break it, lend it out...it's twenty-seven dollars. WOW. I'll be getting a few more, and most likely both of these. File down the spine on the HD and it'll throw sparks just fine. PEACE!
Most of the time I carry the Mora Companion HD, Ka-Bar Becker BK2 and Bahco Laplander saw for wood processing and carving which works perfectly for up to 4 inch trees which is the biggest anyone needs to do unless its a winter camp situation than an axe and large saw is great. I have a nice Wetterling scandi forest axe and in search of a good saw to pair it with. Oh and something on my wish list that you may want to check out is the Flexcut Carving Jack.
What is better not including the price. The mora bushcraft black or mora garberg
GREAT vid young man thank you,I've used the same Mora companion knife for over twenty years for field dressing Deer,knife is perfect.YOU can't beat a Mora.I was about to purchase the Enzo trapper price 130 dollars but I think I'll be buying the Mora Black.I have a big collection of Scandinavian knives Helle martini Mora but they are on display in the gun room.THE Mora companion does all my jobs.Stay safe.
hi this is a great video! but what would you recamond mora companin or mora companin heavy duty im 11 about to be 12 im always outdoors thank you!
My bushcraft black came with the swivel and clip attachment, and I got it on sale for $29 on a group purchase site.
The Bushcraft Black comes with a clip as well. The sheath on the companion is much better, no rattle like the BB and it has the thumb ramp which is much better than the BB's.
WWhich one would I buy as a scout
Update needed....the heavy duty throws sparks just fine if u strike toward the point on the spine, furthermore if you take 30 second with a file u can square off the back VERY easily
Equator Bushcraft channel says the same about the Mora Companion sheath's lack of secure hold on the knife. I have one and I would testify to that. The clip on the other hand would never come off your belt in a million years.
I have the companion HD and love it but my sheath will not retain the knife on its own. I use an elastic band to keep it in place.
Nice video man. Well done and appreciate you can tell you're a real genuine guy looking to help people with info. Subbed.
Thanks for subbing Mike!
I really appreciate your perspective in the end, brother. About folks who hammer on a purpose-built camp utility knife like a Mora because it's not an indestructible sharpened prybar like a 'survival'. Also the part about survival not being fun or a game.
Also, a note on the sheath. A knife designed elegantly like the Swedish style bushcraft knives is very easy to make deep carry leather sheaths for as long as the handle isn't riddled with finger choils.
+D Gunn Good observation Dan, coming from an Axe guy
I just subed a few days ago and I gotta say I have been enjoying you simple and straight forward reviews and info vids. Thanks for them and keep them comin!
Could you do a video comparing and contrasting blade grind types? What grinds are best for certain tasks, etc.
Krik, do you know how the length of their rat tail tangs compare? Could it be that Mora bushcraft black has a longer tang than Mora companion HD?
The clip point part of the spine on the Companion HD, is squared off and will strike a firesteel. The top of the spine is rounded and willl not. Tried it on mine, and works fine. Same deal with the Bushcraft Triflex, only that clip point part of the spine is squared nicely. Best Regards.
question, will the bushcraft fit in the companion Heavy sheath?
Mora companion heavy duty is 3.2mm and only comes in carbon steel correct? And the regular companion comes in 2.5 mm stainless only? The Bushcraft black is also the same 3.2mm carbon steel as the HD companion?
I guess I'm curious if there is a HD-companion in 3.2 mm stainless steel?
I have the light my fire knife,really like it for smaller chores,great comparison of these great knifes,thanks
Thanks for the post. You did a great job! God bless. John
Dave Canterbury has a video to flatten the spine of the blade to give it that sharp 90 degree edge for throwing sparks. Great mod to the cheaper version if you don't have the budget for the BC Black.
Thank you I bought the companion with those ideas in mine and I'm glad you reinforce them for me thank you so much.
Please compare mora companion and mora companion HD
There is a Mora Companion HD in stainless steel too. Less issues with rusting etc. Good opinion for some.
Had the same Q's in my mind before seeing this video. Glad you came to the same conclusion as me! I went for the HD. Battoning is really hatchet work anyway. Like you say, it isn't about survival, it's about fun.
You're welcome and glad you like our videos. I try to be practical. -Krik
Really like your insight on survival. And your right, if there's a chance you'll get lost bring a survival knife. But it's also true that the knife your have on you IS the survival knife.
I'm glad I could be of help. And thanks for the encouraging words. They mean a lot to Stony and I. -Krik
Just got a Bushcraft Black today and sheath came with both attachments. First Morakniv in my collection. Probably cwon' be the last. Like the comparison.
I have the mg hd already so it was interesting to see the comparison. I think today im going to do the file work on the spine and look at how to do bluing or patina on it.
Hi Krik have you had any experience with the Mora Robust? I'm trying to find out if it will throw a spark.
Ted
Nice tip. Thanks for that. Is that what you did to your HD? -Krik
You can use a hair dryer or heat gun and tighten the sheaths up
I really liked your observations on survival (starting around 9:35). I completely agree about what you call "that good stuff"-having a good time in the outdoors and building outdoor tools-as opposed to actual "survival," which isn't fun. (I'd say "that good stuff" can be described as "bushcraft," but everyone seems to have a different meaning for that term, which is perhaps why you avoided using it.)
How well does the diamond black coating hold up on the bush craft black knife? I know with most coatings, they begin to wear off and look ugly and abused after batoning a few logs. Thanks!
we've put this knife through a decent set of paces and the coating still looks good. it isn't like some of the traction coatings used by other knife manufacturers that comes off after processing a few logs. but only time will tell. thanks for watching! - stony
This channel rocks, thanks guys.
Is the Mora companion F orange better than the Mora companion HD?
the orange is only more expensive because the orange would allow you to see I better if dropped in the woods
In February the black was selling for $27. The other day I saw a dealer who had one for sale for $91. The sudden rave talk that went around about this knife this summer has pushed the price through the roof. That aside I really like the knife. I have both the orange and black. The orange is nice because it is easy to see when you look for it in camp. It is just as good a knife as the black. The only difference that is now rectified by Mora, was that the handle was plastic on the orange. Now it is rubber. So I think from my use that you nailed it Krik. The HD Companion, the Black, the Orange, and the Robust are all about the same knife and they each have features that are unique and will suit different people. But just because the black has gotten a little more attention, and is a little more pricey, that doesn't make it a better knife. If I had to do it again, I think I would just buy the orange and say "done".
+bashfulbrother That's crazy how much the price jumped.
Black Owl Outdoors
It's highway robbery and it is profiteering.
I couldn't make up my mind, so I bought them both. Can't say I am disapointed in either. I still can't say which I truly prefer; both are great knives.You get less than 1/4 of an inch longer blade with the black. Same thickness, same blade shape, etc. Can't go wrong with either.
Why the hell do you think you cant throw sparks with the companion.
The spine of the companion knives are polished and don't have a sharp 90% angle for use with fero rods. With the BC Black, Mora intentionally gave it a sharper spine. Apparently it is quite easy to grind/file the spine of the companion to make it work, though. In an emergency, of cource, you could always use the sharp edge of the blade.
Are Swedish turtles made in Sweden also? kinda like "people made in Sweden" from the companion HD review.
As is comes the companion knives won't throw sparks because the spines are rounded from the stamping process. However just a little time with a file, dremel, or something like that to square up the spine and they will throw sparks from a fire steel very well.
Whats your opinion on the Garberg? Moraknivs first full tang knife.
looks like a nice knife, just too expensive.
Just got a Mora HD Companion today for $15. Perfect knife.
The Bushcraft is better in almost every way, but not $25 dollars more.
Anyway awesome video Krik, love your videos.
Bushcraft Black
vs
HighQ Robust
?
Do they make a left handed sheath for these knives?
+Robert Corbin Never heard.
+Robert Corbin You could get the Mora Outdoor 2000. Its sheath can be used both left and right.
Be honest with you Krik the thinness of the 3 and it's large belly is what I attribute it to. Both 3's I have the coating as well. I imagine the non coated 3's are going to be even sicker at cutting and slicing.
Been told when the Mora plastic sheaths get a little loose, warm up the top of the sheath with a hairdryer, put the knife back in sheath and squeeze it back around the handle of the knife. My Robust Pro sheath is getting loose so I'll be putting my money where my mouth is soon. If it works I'll come back here and mention it. Thanks for the review!
Great video. Your camera quality is excellent, it's making me impatient, waiting for spring to get here for some camping and hiking!
I am surprised why you stop making videos?
You make a great point, Its totally depends on what you are using it for. I am using mine for a wood cutting knife in a Hunting Day Pack just in case I need to make a fire and to help me make a shelter. I like the Bushcraft Black only because it feels better in weight and gives a little more confidence. Both are good for what I will use it for but they are not survival knifes. Both are light enough to carry in a small bag and for a night or two, should meet all my needs. Thanks for the video!
I forgot to also say. It only stands to reason a thinner blade regardless of grind is going to cut better. I think it's a loaded question when asking if a FFG is better on a thinner blade than on a larger blade. Because me thinks your talking stock size. And of course thicker the stock in general the more obtuse the grind is going to be. 20DPS on 3/16's is going to be thicker still than on a 1/8 inch stock size.
That's interesting your 3 cuts better than your Moras. I mean, I believe you. Do you think a flat grind works MUCH better on a thinner blade? As opposed to a larger blade? I can see that being a possibility. What are your thoughts? -Krik
1 black or 2 HD? a no-brainer thxs for excellent vid
good vid very fair i own the mora mg and mora robust HQ. your right about not throwing sparks way i fixed that was to cut about one inch of jimping with a dremel tool on top of blade, now it throws sparks really well. again great video keep them coming
keeping the camera still would be better i get seasick.
nice review.
How do these knives do in the water?
They're made of carbon steel, which is more prone to rust than stainless steel. Mora makes stainless versions too but they won't get as sharp as their carbon counterparts
Just be sure to wipe them down with your shirt or a bandanna (or a towel if you're at home) to get moisture off, then oil them. You should do that with all knives actually, even stainless (despite common belief, stainless steel will rust if you leave it in a wet leather sheath for a year or 2. I found out the hard way). Your knives will last longer.
You can make a small (1 1/2 inch) loop out of paracord and tie it through the belt clip on the Comp HD. Then pull it over the butt-end of your knife when it's in the sheath. Knife's not going anywhere. Easy to make, easy to deploy. Some of the many Mora mods are part of the fun of owning the things. There's a cottage industry in how-to on this subject.
How come it says it has chemicals known to cause cancer? I just ordered mine and its showing that. Does the handle plastic have it? The metal? Can I clean off what its talking about?
Just about any kind of plastic, if subjected to the right tests, can be considered to have "chemicals known to cause cancer." Usually, it comes down to where you live whether or not companies have to put such info on their products. It is an old joke, for example, that just about everything is "known by the State of California to cause cancer." Unless you are planning to eat your knife's handle or holster or set it on fire and breathe the smoke, you should be fine. As an example, when they said aspertame (the sweetener in Sweet & Low and a lot of sugar-free stuff) could cause cancer, the judgement was based on animal testing on rats. For humans to get cancer from the same substance in the same way, you would basically have to eat several pounds of apertame at a time. Pretty much any substance in massive quantities will seriously mess up the human body. There is even the medical condition known as water toxicity when someone drinks enough water that their blood becomes dilluted. Maybe regulating agencies will one day have to mark bottled water as a toxic substance. :)
@@jameswoodard4304 makes sense. Thanks man for explaining it. I was really worried
Sorry, I don't. But if you find one, please let me know. I've been wanting to try different sheaths for my Moras. Thanks for watching. -Krik
Thanks for this video. It helped me decide to go with the Bushcraft Black instead of the Companion Heavy Duty (Needed to strike a ferro rod. Found another video that explained why the Companion Heavy Duty couldn't). So thanks.
Great comparison. I agree that the Bushcraft is not worth twice as much as the Heavy Duty Companion. One thing that you said that I haven't heard anyone say before, that I think is important was, "Survival is not fun". Thank you for putting that out there, you may have saved someone by planting that seed in their brain. Survival is what you do when you're desperate and/or in an emergency situation. It's always good to be prepared, but you don't really want to be in a survival situation.
greg smit I heard a good definition of an adventure is 'somewhere you've always wanted to be unless you're there.' - Survival is much the same. I think you said it very well....thank you! {bowing deeply}
What are turtles?
I think the Black is worth the money. I have both, and I think the longer tang on the black makes it a more heavy duty knife in general. I'm on the fence on grinds. I like scandi grinds, but my Esee 3's seem to cut and slice better than my Mora's. The handle on the black however is nice.
Im just starting off in bushcraft and i want to know if a mora companion hd and an old hickory butcher knife would be a good knife combination? Unfortunately many schrades, ka bars, and other high quality lower budget blades are quite expensive up here in canada, thanks.
Bryan JR Hey Bryan, I'd say that any Mora will work outstanding for carving and cuttings tasks. If you do plan on batoning your knife, which is fine and understandable, I would get the Mora Heavy Duty Companion. However if you plan on batoning wood larger than 2-3 inches, I'd recommend getting a second bigger knife for all other tasks that the Mora will not do or is not made for. Then I'd HIGHLY recommend getting the Bahco Laplander Folding Saw to complete your Cutting Tool set. So in essence: The Mora will do all your detailed carving and cutting and also food processing if you need it to. The Laplander Saw will cut both small and large wood across the grain and the bigger knife can be used to baton and split the wood down for Fire making. To answer your question, I know several guys who use an old hickory as their main knife for years. So I feel I can vouch for that as well. Send me a PM if you need any help. Take care.
Bryan JR One thing to keep in mind though, I don't believe the Old Hickory Knives come with sheaths. So getting a decent sheath for it might end up costing quite a bit.
Wow its been a while since i checked the replies, my apologies... But thanks very much! I think i'll definitely start off with the mora and slowly work my way up to more costly blades that are within budget, as for the hickory butcher and the sheath, it could prove to be a fun project!
Nice vid! I love watching earth, explore and relax...
Great review man.
My theory behind the second bevel - it emulates a convex edge for durability. Like NineFiveFox mentioned above - scandi grinds are prone to roll if you try to use them in that way. Everything is a trade off, I guess. -Krik
Which one is a full tang
Neither.
AWESOME BRO, answered everything i needed to know. I really wanted/needed to know the difference as i wanted to purchase one of them next week. So THANKS for direct comparison.
i`ve made my decision. i`m getting BOTH!! LOL, BUT THE BLACK ROCKS!!!