The knife rambo grabbed was his own. The sheriff took it off of him when he arrested him. He asked him "what he needed a knife like that for?" And rambo told him it was for hunting. The sheriff asked "what do you hunt with a knife." Rambo said "name it".
Yes. They arrested him and took away the knife. But then somehow he escapes and I think grabbed the knife (which was laying out on a desk). ...if I'm remembering right.... Maybe time for me to watch the movie again?
@@DougShoeBushcraft it's always time to watch it again. I love that movie. Yeah they took the knife away from him when the sheriff arrested him at the bridge when he turned around and walked back into the county. And he grabbed it when he came running out of the basement where the holding cells were. And broke one of the guys nose in his Escape
Hi Doug ☺ looks like you fixed the problem, time wil tell, it's easy to do and turns a some what suspect knife into one that's actually usable . As you say cheap enough to leave in the truck ,and your enthusiasm for beating the snot out of it gave me a chuckle,lol. Thanks for the video! Doug, stay safe my friend, best wishe's, and may your God go whith you, Stuart UK.
Thanks for the great demo! Plenty of budget survival knives with plastic handles would not have passed even 1/4 of the tests you dished out without breaking. HF knife with aluminum handle is the one to beat for budget knifes.
I bought two. I heavily modded them. One mod besides a ton load of jb weld is to get a longer grub screw, drill into the other side a bit so the grub screw goes into the opposite side for a bit of extra holding power. Install the jb weld and then screw in the grub screw. Later I filled in the lower part inside until the bottom is flat. I tested my knives for being leak proof. After what I did they were water proof. I can tell you, unless you get stupid, that knife will serve you well.
Thank you for sharing your mods and experience with the HF knife. What did you use to fill in the lower part? I was thinking of doing something similar.
@@DougShoeBushcraft just more jb weld. Inside are hollow spots. I filled all that up. It prevents leakage and it reinforces the handle where the blade is supported internally. It all becomes a strong solid structure. Sadly both knives got stolen, long story. So I plan on getting two more and redoing them. Remember that the grub screw is an important mod to add holding strength. And yes, i tapped the hole. You may have to drill out the hole in the blade. That material is not easily drilled, tough stuff.
I was rebuilding an engine in a car I owned back in the day I got this stuff called liquid steel it's just like jb weld the reason I did was I broke one of the bolt holes in a brand new water pump assembly for the engine. Long story short it cured overnight and I was able to torque the bolt to proper spec and that fix held till the car died for good years later.
Two things🤔🤔 First: I separate the blade tang from alum handle. Super cheap “knife blank” to make smaller “full tang” custom knife. Second: If manufacturer put $0.50 ‘epoxy kit’ with purchase, they wound add cost to knife. KISS BUT not least, thoroughly enjoyable, laid back playful video, well done, Good and Faithful servant
I’ve passed this knife in HF many times through the years. It looks cheap and gimmicky but for less than 10 bucks, I kinda regret not picking it up for the hell of it. I have some very expensive knives I’m afraid to use or lose, but this one costs less than the gas it takes me to get to the woods. I like the JB weld mod for the tang. Seems like about as good a fix as you can do with it. After that, the whole handle would have to break off and I don’t see that happening. Especially after you beat the snot out of it. I’m definitely picking one up now. Great video. Thanks!
They make some aluminum or titanium bike frames with epoxy tubing joints, so it is just a matter of a good fit and a clean glue job. I would clean everything with 90% isopropyl alcohol and maybe acetone. Then lightly sand anything shiny with #600 sandpaper. Then glue it with a little extra glue and try to avoid any air voids. I'd go with the slow epoxy because I've seen how it makes a better bond and has better strength. I once glued oily balsawood to oily balsawood with Armstrong A12 and flew that plane a bunch of times. It never broke at the glue joint. JB weld is okay, but if you know anyone in aerospace that occasionally throws out an expired tube of GA-47, grab it. That stuff is magic. But without special access, just use the slow JB weld or some other good metal epoxy with about a one hour set time. Some epoxies will bond better if you run them warm at the oven's lowest temperature, like 140F or so. You let it set a little and then put it in the warm oven. At that point, the aluminum is the weak point, so the only way to make it stronger would be to externally re-inforce the aluminum tube and socket.
Thanks for the info. Definitely going to do the JB Weld on mine. And also I love the spear idea. You were talking about the smooth roundness of the handle and how slippery it was while chopping. I was going to post a picture of mine but TH-cam won’t let me. What I did was wrapped several feet of Paracord around the handle. In my mind that’s a nice way to carry extra para cord and also helps the grip.
You convinced me! Next time I am in HF I am gonna buy one and do your mod! Thanks! Then I am going to sharpen it. Some other reviewers also complained it was not really sharp out of the packaging. I got an expensive Buck full tang, but if I can save it from some of the hard Knocks of slitting wood etc, this thing will be worth it! Perhaps get some golf club grip wrapped wrap that metal handle to get a better grip surface?
I only have one example of the knife. Mine was sharp, but the angle of the final edge was more like a machete. A kitchen knife, etc would typically be a steeper angle. In another video, I mod the grind one a section near the base of the blade for finer tasks.
I've passed on this knife for 2 years, but I happen to have some of that high strength JB Weld in my garage, so I think i am gonna pick this up and do your mod. I will probably put some power pro braided fish line and matches in the storage pocket. I subscribed so i don't lose you, thanks !
@@DougShoeBushcraft If I lived there I'd buy one for $7. The Original is called Aitor - Jungle King I, and it is all steel construction with nut and screw tang submerged in epoxy. It is indestructible but very expensive. This looks like a steal, even if it is just an aluminium handle.
@@julianpetkov8320 Thank you for the info. So it's a copycat, and the original manufacturer (Aitor) did epoxy the blade to the handle. That makes sense to me now. Somehow I'm just seeing this comment now or I would have responded sooner. Thanks again. This is the kind of info I'm looking for.
At this point, I'd say it's good for utility after gluing in the blade w/ JB Weld. Without that "mod" I'd say it's a dangerous knife. Mine had severe blade wobble quite quickly.
I love what you have done, Doug. I have watched so many videos where people buy this inexpensive gear, and just poo poo it. It's totally negative. They also use the gear beyond its capabilities to the point of failure. Welll no kidding. What I want to see is how can we use this inexpensive gear. What it can do. Not what it can not do. Let's make constructive videos. Making a video that simply destroys an economical piece of gear is not helpful. Thanks, Doug.
Thank you very much. I'm having fun making these videos, and I'm happy to hear that you and others like to watch them. We have a zillion TV channels and nothings on. There's very little that I like. So I turned to youtube, etc. IMO there isn't enough content of the kind I like. One reason I started the channel was to create the kind of content I like. Also I wanted to make it family friendly (no bad language, and things like that).
Thank you for sharing your experience with this knife. After seeing someone else throw off on this knife I bought one (because I’m contrary?) and did a similar thing to it. The blade is still firmly connected to the handle and waterproof after hard use. It’s still not my go to but it’s better than a rock or stick and if I loose it I won’t be filling an insurance claim. As an aside, one can take it on a canoe/kayak camping trip and be assured the contents inside the handle will be dry if for some reason you’re thrown out of your craft in rapids and it’s good for clearing a path through a briar patch once you’re out of the water. Don’t ask me how I know.
Seeing this knife on TH-cam l went out & got one. I’m going to put JB weld on it like you did. Saw other ideas but your mod looks so simple & works. Bless you.
Good insightful information and demonstration of the multiple wide uses of this outstanding base of an inexpensive durable ,practical, useful Surrival knife. You took the right action by reinforcing the blade to the handle with JB Weld epoxy. Gordon seems to be a Harbor Freight house brand of knifes. This Harbor Freight Surrival knife makes for an excellent Emergency situation Spear to deal with situations with dangerous wildlife. Just use a Harbor Freight telescopic handle with a paint roller handle threaded end cut out and reversed fitted into the hollow of the handle to secure screw connect the knife handle to the telescopic handle.
Do you (or someone else) have a video of the spear mod you mentioned? That sounds very interesting. I am thinking now about making a video on that subject. I'll give the person credit and link to the person's video if there is one. Thank you.
@@MrHrKaidoOjamaaVKJV I found it! Thank you! I think you meant --- G3AR - 'GreekGadgetGuru'. The link to the video is--- th-cam.com/video/KnXX7KeiSNc/w-d-xo.htmlsi=nrAZfJSH2VYtRPhR . I might do a similar project and link back to him for credit. I think I'd build the project a little differently and then test it. I'd show the viewers how the spear performed. EDIT- another video on the same channel. th-cam.com/video/g1p7I2rRYHY/w-d-xo.htmlsi=VT3Q-EFcev9f1jMH
@DougShoeBushcraft Yes, that's him/ it. Yes, indeed, that DIY spear is truly an effective,practical, Personal Defense Safety Device for people dealing with emergency situations with dangerous wildlife.
I have one of these knifes, I put it in a dry box in my boat with other tools and emergency supplies. I could get stranded and need a knife like this at some point. The mod is coming for sure. I would get a syringe and use that to put the mixture into the area needed. Great mod for sure, once it fails if it does, then go buy another one and repeat.
I have 2 of them and really enjoyed this video! I will be modded mine as well!! To include forming a large bushcraft sheath out of pvc for one of them! I have a "Rambo" copy with the hollow handle that I will now go back and reinforce with JB WELD as well! Thanks for this video! New fan here!
A friend just gave me one of these . I've always been a bit of a knife snob lol and I didn't have the heart to laugh... but watching this video I'm gonna do your mod ... I've always seen these knives as a novelty. But maybe I'm wrong. I have to say ot has a pretty good fishing kit too
I still have the knife. I'm still beating on it, and it hasn't broken yet. So IMHO it's a functional utility knife / mini machete. -once you glue in the blade with JB Weld Kwikweld. I tested the knife w/o the glue and it started coming apart the first day. I batoned and threw it etc and that ruined it. The blade became dangerously loose.
I bought one of these just yesterday. Definitely going to JB weld it and use red loctite on the set screw. Mine came fairly sharp, I could shave hair off my arm right out of the package!
Thank you. That's a good thing to think about. The way I did it, I believe the set screw has been epoxied in place by the J B Weld Quick Weld. I did check it, and it seems to be stuck now.
After removing Allen screw find drill size to go through handle make sure it's size for a sell pin, nail to be snug.. do the job weld and put snug pin through or nail and that's a double secure feature.. not my idea seen it on TH-cam don't know the man's name but thanks for sharing
Thank you. That's another method to try. I've seen people do that on TH-cam and wondered if it would make the knife stronger or weaker. I think it would be drilling through an "X" support that's part of the handle.
Sorry I missed the premier - full tang is the way to go - if that spine (tang) was longer you could have put it into a antler shed or bone for the handle , but you wouldn't have that little storage handle - cool vid 👍 -
Doug, I think you’ve already gotten more than $6.99 worth of fun, Lol. Any time it survives past this video is icing on the cake, lol. Great idea to make it more durable.
I have one of these. Never really use it. But one cool idea I had was attaching a 3 ft handle to it from the hand guard. Has two holes in it that could easily attach too
Really enjoyed the video. Looks like with the JB Weld, it can be a great secondary knife or special use knife. It has the length for a bushcraft knife but bigger than i like for an EDC. I suggest checking out HF Icon folding knife. I've been pleasantly surprised by it and it's become one of my daily carry knives.
-pop the handle off your ferro -86 the candle. Impregnate your cotton w/ vaseline. Store in craft bag -86 the mini Bic. Replace with a spun aluminum peanut lighter (Amazon) UTILIZE THE NEW/ EXCESS ROOM WITH: -Whirl Pak H20 bag w/ 6 Aqua Tabs -2 needles -16P nail (sharpened) -fish hooks, swivels, split shot (in a craft bag) -Full roll of flavorless dental floss (minus the plastic case) -2 Lg safety pins -30 to 40 feet kevlar cordage 75lb test -22 gauge stainless craft wire (15-20feet) -O light mini (Amazon) Wrap the tools tightly in Reynolds barbecue pro heavy gauge foil like a chimichanga Equip the pommel with 275 cord. By wrapping it around a slender ferro rod core then overhand & wrap (like the stagehands stored sisal hanks back in the old days) it makes a 3.5 inch long bee that’s attractive and offers 15 feet of 275 cord. Now that knife offers a few doodads to play with while angsting about “why didn’t I tell my wife to call EMS at 7 instead of 8?!?!” 😉
Hey that was a good demonstration of a mod to a cheap knife and for your question hey man if it works for you that's all that counts it don't have to work for somebody else you make you happy that's all
Thank you for the comment. Yes, I couldn't agree more. That is the right answer for me. I've continued to use the knife and it's fine. In the next video featuring this knife I cut down a literal tree with it........
I just purchased one of these knives and I removed the screw but the blade would not come out. I shined a light down inside the handle and it definitely looks like it’s glued in place, just on the stub tang. Maybe Gordon glues them in now? 🤷🏻♂️. I smacked it on a stump several times but the blade wouldn’t budge. I ultimately put some loctite on the screw and put it back in the handle. It seems very solid.
That's interesting. That's for commenting with your experience. I will check and maybe buy another HF survival knife to see for myself. The blade fell right out (in this video, in my example) because I had previously beat up the knife a little bit without the glue mod. So if you put yours to rough use, I'd be careful at first and check for looseness. If the company didn't glue in the blade, it will become use, I think. If the company has started gluing in the blade, then I wonder if they are listening to me or other customers. I'd love to take credit for it. ha ha
Great hard test. I'd have no worries using the modded Rambo knife. Pretty damn tough. The attraction of that hollow handle is hard to resist. It's an odd thing, as it doesn't hold much, but it's great having a survival kit that's always with you when you have your knife. In a perfect World, it'd be a steel handle, as Aluminium is fairly brittle, but it would be a lot more difficult and expensive to make.
Thank you. Yes I'm wondering if the aluminum handle will break spontaneously. ...I wonder if temp extremes this winter would cause it to break. I had a hollow-handled steel knife back in the day (an old Swedish bayonet, maybe WWII era). It wasn't as hollow a handle as this knife, but it was somewhat similar (as I'm remembering it anyway)
@@DougShoeBushcraft When you're feeling rich, it'd be cool to see you test out an expensive hollow handled knife. Not even sure if they exist any more. The last one I saw were the Chris Reeves ones, back in the 80s. Interesting about your hollow handled bayonet. I wonder if soldiers used that feature?
@@jeffreybarton1297 the bayonet had a hollow in the handle to allow it to attach to the rifle. It wasn't intended for storage, but that's the idea I had
As a modern intellectual, I'm of the opinion that JB Weld and/or Gorilla Glue can and will fix just about anything. Also, I'd like to know what grade of stainless steel Gordon (the Harbor Freight knife brand) uses. I'm not sure if it's 440A or AUS6 or what but it seems to have a good balance between edge retention and fatigue resistance. You get a lemon more often than with name brands but, 9/10 of the time the heat treat is pretty good. A shame that handle's already so big around or you could lash some wood shims to the top and bottom to ovalize it. And, as an addendum, do NOT buy the Harbor Freight brand JB Weld. lol Don't trust it.
It's supposed to be made of 3Cr13 stainless steel, which Knife User Do t C om says is "cheap and good quality, and allows making affordable and durable knives."
I know I’m late to this party but I enjoyed your video and idea to toughen the tool up for some serious use! I also don’t see many guys throw one that accurately with that amount of force! Do you have a video on throwing by any chance?
this is my video on how to throw a knife and axe- th-cam.com/video/O6GYh8M2tqo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=eDrS-enwNpOML3Z6 It's fine to comment on older videos. Thank you.
3 simple mods for this knife 1. replace the blade with a full tang blade 2. replace the handle with a solid handle 3. replace the hilt with something that doesn't hold everything together with a set screw.
Good job; but, I'd use some GLOVES when pulling/replacing that blade. You might be surprised at how fast and easy it is to get CUT by a "cheap" knife! [I've found it out the HARD way] 😉
GOOD TEST I didn't think it would hold up to what you done to this Knife...I have to say WOnow I still wouldn't trust this k ife but you made this 9$ Knife look like a 100$ knife..
Do you mean weld the blade into the handle? The handle is aluminum. So I believe you'd need someone skilled in that sort of welding. I think there are few people able to do it.
@@DougShoeBushcraft Yep. That's exactly what I mean. I'm sure it would make it virtually indestructible and in concept, almost like a full tang. I appreciate you answering. It would be a cool project for a welder with spare materials lying around.
The steel on the one example I have is hard and will hold an edge. I would say it holds an edge very well, but is a little difficult to sharpen (because of the hardness). In another video, I used a diamond sharpener to change the grind angle near the base of the blade for finer tasks. It came with a final edge not very steep (similar to that on a machete)
Very good point. Thank you. This is one of my favorite knives and I'm not sure why. It's just fun I guess. But over months of time I have noticed damage to the matches and a powder inside the handle (from the match heads). I haven't had matches fail yet, but it could happen. Yes many of us had the cheap Rambo knife as kids. For others the hollow-handled survival knife is a fun idea. But the hollow handle isn't the best place to have things like matches or a compass, etc. The gear gets beat up with the shock and vibration.
It's holding up. I use it often. Also, there is a playlist on the channel dedicated to the Harbor Freight survival knife. Four videos so far. Future videos of the knife will be posted here---> th-cam.com/play/PLBmawvCJdqFyRr5omm8ByFaSA7qwv4fIU.html
I have that one and I paid $34.99 for one like it on BUDK the holster is a sling shot too it's called one shot one kill. I'm going to use Harbor Freights version of JB WELD and I'm drilling the hole out and puting in a solid pin. I also Like Harbor Freights Machete. And if you don't like Harbor Freights Knife Old Timer makes one out of a solid piece of metal.
I think you're on to something here. One thing I would have done is rough up the blade where the jb weld would be with a little sand paper to make it adhere better. But definitely, you are on to something. I have one of those knives. I'm going to do your mod and beat the snot out of it.
I have 2 of these and will definitely be doing the JB weld mod and adding tot he kit in the handle. Just might get another one too. Thanks much. Oh, forgot. When the handle is wet and hands wet it seems to be a little slippery. Any mods to make the handle more 'grippier'?
The screw on mine came tight. (But I only have the one example of the knife). In another video I start using it as received out of the blister pack. With rough use the blade became dangerously loose the first day. But then in this video, I glued the blade into the handle. When I did that, the screw became glued in place.
First thought seeing the partial rat tail detached from the hilt: a set screw? Secondly: if one made it a through bolt with nylock wingnut; the same hardware could be used to creat a formidable spear that enjoys more purchase via the hardware than the cordage bindings we typically see. Lastly there is absolutely nothing wrong with you. I have the same sickness. Between my wallet, pockets and “money belt” I carry more survival tools EDC than one can cram into a .75” by 3” hollow spun aluminum hilt. Nonetheless on long drives I daydream about the survival camps I could build with the perfectly ingenious selection of wire, a nail, some duct tape & matches in my $9 Harbor Freight knife (that was $5 until a few years ago)😉
It seems little strange to see you so violent Doug,, lol. The way you were swinging that knife at the tree. Though your throws were Right on. I could see that sticking in a Black Bears Head while charging you. Just like Daniel Boon Shoe craft. Then throwing the spear.. wow... Better be careful you don't call in some wild attacking woodpeckers, lol or Sasquatch. Have to admit, the thing held up to everything you through at it,, pretty Cool . God Bless my friend my Brother. Amen Big Jim New Hampshire USA aka Boston Strong
i had one of those knives i too probably 10 years ago changed some things in the survival kit as well however i didnt use that knife for camping it stayed in my fishing bucket it wasnt really sharp enough from the factory to be useful so i sharpened it one day after fishing was getting ready to leave took the knife off my belt laid it on top of my car it hit the the asphalt from a car moving about 45 mph i stopped to retrieve the knife but the blade and handle had shattered i only found bits and pieces of both didnt find the sheath at all the knife is ok and will work with mods but it most certainly is not a quality unit i used my knife mostly for cutting fish heads off (bait) and never any serious hardcore survivalist stuff it just cant handle that the materials just arent suited for anything heavy
thank you for sharing your experiences with the knife. That is real world testimony. I believe the handle is thin wall aluminum. So, I can see it shattering if it hit the asphalt at 45 mph. Yes I think there are a lot of other knife designs that likely would have survived something like that.
@@DougShoeBushcraft hey if you have the time come on by my channel i have just small hobbyist channel i have small engine stuff gun stuff diy stuff and more your boumd to find something useful
Thank you. I never meant to imply that Rambo didn't have the video earlier in the movie. A lot of people have taken it that way. When he escaped from the police station, the knife is the one thing he grabbed.
I reviewed the handle contents in an earlier video--- th-cam.com/video/FMlWdLGxz3M/w-d-xo.html&feature=shares It's around the 11 minute mark if you want to skip ahead to that.
That's a overnight camp knife, but I wouldn't count on it for long-term survival, but if you were fool enough to have counted on one, when SHTF, its better then nothing , personally I got a buck 119 in my bug out bag, others to, like a Mora and a Kershaw camp 10 , still need to upgrade my multi tool but I got a cheap Geber from Walmart
I don't understand. Are you saying the Gordon Survival Knives currently sold by Harbor Freight have no adjustment screw and also the blades are glued into the handle by the manufacturer?
@@DougShoeBushcraft Answer, no. Bought one today, has set screw, no glue. Bought it for a spear top for my hiking staff, I expect I'll be thrusting with it, not throwing it, but very satisfied to see it take that beating.
The knife rambo grabbed was his own. The sheriff took it off of him when he arrested him. He asked him "what he needed a knife like that for?" And rambo told him it was for hunting. The sheriff asked "what do you hunt with a knife." Rambo said "name it".
Yes. They arrested him and took away the knife. But then somehow he escapes and I think grabbed the knife (which was laying out on a desk). ...if I'm remembering right.... Maybe time for me to watch the movie again?
@@DougShoeBushcraft it's always time to watch it again. I love that movie. Yeah they took the knife away from him when the sheriff arrested him at the bridge when he turned around and walked back into the county. And he grabbed it when he came running out of the basement where the holding cells were. And broke one of the guys nose in his Escape
He didn't take it off the sheriff he took it when he went out of the police station went out and got on the boys motorcycle
Thank you. I've always thought Rambo says, "Game meat." instead of "Name it."
Been driving me crazy for years.
@@sirroxalothe says “ the enemy “
LOVED the knife throwing exhibition!! You just cant lose
thank you. That was my favorite part of filming it.
Applying the JB Weld was a good idea !!! It waterproofed the handle very well.
The batoning was what I was waiting for, that’s hard on a knife and again, for $6.99 plus the job weld is a game changer
I think so. The knife is still holding up...
Hi Doug ☺ looks like you fixed the problem, time wil tell, it's easy to do and turns a some what suspect knife into one that's actually usable . As you say cheap enough to leave in the truck ,and your enthusiasm for beating the snot out of it gave me a chuckle,lol. Thanks for the video! Doug, stay safe my friend, best wishe's, and may your God go whith you, Stuart UK.
Thank you so much, Stuart. God bless.
Think I will give it a go
For the money it's the best spear available. For this price. I'm sure there's many more options.
For the money it's the best spear available. For this price. I'm sure there's many more options.
Thanks for the great demo! Plenty of budget survival knives with plastic handles would not have passed even 1/4 of the tests you dished out without breaking. HF knife with aluminum handle is the one to beat for budget knifes.
Thank you. I agree. I don't think a plastic handle survival knife would last me very long.......
I bought two. I heavily modded them. One mod besides a ton load of jb weld is to get a longer grub screw, drill into the other side a bit so the grub screw goes into the opposite side for a bit of extra holding power. Install the jb weld and then screw in the grub screw. Later I filled in the lower part inside until the bottom is flat. I tested my knives for being leak proof. After what I did they were water proof. I can tell you, unless you get stupid, that knife will serve you well.
Thank you for sharing your mods and experience with the HF knife. What did you use to fill in the lower part? I was thinking of doing something similar.
@@DougShoeBushcraft just more jb weld. Inside are hollow spots. I filled all that up. It prevents leakage and it reinforces the handle where the blade is supported internally. It all becomes a strong solid structure. Sadly both knives got stolen, long story. So I plan on getting two more and redoing them. Remember that the grub screw is an important mod to add holding strength. And yes, i tapped the hole. You may have to drill out the hole in the blade. That material is not easily drilled, tough stuff.
I was rebuilding an engine in a car I owned back in the day I got this stuff called liquid steel it's just like jb weld the reason I did was I broke one of the bolt holes in a brand new water pump assembly for the engine. Long story short it cured overnight and I was able to torque the bolt to proper spec and that fix held till the car died for good years later.
Two things🤔🤔
First: I separate the blade tang from alum handle. Super cheap “knife blank” to make smaller “full tang” custom knife.
Second: If manufacturer put $0.50 ‘epoxy kit’ with purchase, they wound add cost to knife. KISS
BUT not least, thoroughly enjoyable, laid back playful video, well done, Good and Faithful servant
why not make a video demonstrating this?
Yes this is underrated for $10! Have a few of these and been wanting to do something with them! Thanks brother
I’ve passed this knife in HF many times through the years. It looks cheap and gimmicky but for less than 10 bucks, I kinda regret not picking it up for the hell of it. I have some very expensive knives I’m afraid to use or lose, but this one costs less than the gas it takes me to get to the woods. I like the JB weld mod for the tang. Seems like about as good a fix as you can do with it. After that, the whole handle would have to break off and I don’t see that happening. Especially after you beat the snot out of it. I’m definitely picking one up now.
Great video. Thanks!
Thats good to hear. Thanks for letting me know
Me too! That thing is really tough for the price. Waoooooo!
They make some aluminum or titanium bike frames with epoxy tubing joints, so it is just a matter of a good fit and a clean glue job.
I would clean everything with 90% isopropyl alcohol and maybe acetone. Then lightly sand anything shiny with #600 sandpaper.
Then glue it with a little extra glue and try to avoid any air voids. I'd go with the slow epoxy because I've seen how it makes a better bond and has better strength. I once glued oily balsawood to oily balsawood with Armstrong A12 and flew that plane a bunch of times. It never broke at the glue joint. JB weld is okay, but if you know anyone in aerospace that occasionally throws out an expired tube of GA-47, grab it. That stuff is magic.
But without special access, just use the slow JB weld or some other good metal epoxy with about a one hour set time. Some epoxies will bond better if you run them warm at the oven's lowest temperature, like 140F or so. You let it set a little and then put it in the warm oven.
At that point, the aluminum is the weak point, so the only way to make it stronger would be to externally re-inforce the aluminum tube and socket.
Good video brother, I really enjoyed your joy being out there and doing your own testing and fun
Thanks for the info. Definitely going to do the JB Weld on mine. And also I love the spear idea. You were talking about the smooth roundness of the handle and how slippery it was while chopping. I was going to post a picture of mine but TH-cam won’t let me. What I did was wrapped several feet of Paracord around the handle. In my mind that’s a nice way to carry extra para cord and also helps the grip.
You could post the photo in a comment to Doug Shoe Bushcraft's facebook page. facebook.com/DougShoeBushcraft
I used to have this knife in 🇲🇽 when I lost all my survival kit in the handle I put some concrete in the handle by the way excellent review
This is the best 'road test' I have seen. Great video ! Thank you.
thank you so much
You convinced me! Next time I am in HF I am gonna buy one and do your mod! Thanks! Then I am going to sharpen it. Some other reviewers also complained it was not really sharp out of the packaging. I got an expensive Buck full tang, but if I can save it from some of the hard Knocks of slitting wood etc, this thing will be worth it! Perhaps get some golf club grip wrapped wrap that metal handle to get a better grip surface?
I only have one example of the knife. Mine was sharp, but the angle of the final edge was more like a machete. A kitchen knife, etc would typically be a steeper angle. In another video, I mod the grind one a section near the base of the blade for finer tasks.
I have the same knife from HF and love your Mod you did, I am wrapping My handle for better grip thanks I was afraid to throw it but see it holds up!
I've passed on this knife for 2 years, but I happen to have some of that high strength JB Weld in my garage, so I think i am gonna pick this up and do your mod. I will probably put some power pro braided fish line and matches in the storage pocket. I subscribed so i don't lose you, thanks !
Nice to meet you. That's great. Please let me know how the knife works out for you, if you get a chance.
@@DougShoeBushcraft If I lived there I'd buy one for $7. The Original is called Aitor - Jungle King I, and it is all steel construction with nut and screw tang submerged in epoxy. It is indestructible but very expensive. This looks like a steal, even if it is just an aluminium handle.
@@julianpetkov8320 Thank you for the info. So it's a copycat, and the original manufacturer (Aitor) did epoxy the blade to the handle. That makes sense to me now. Somehow I'm just seeing this comment now or I would have responded sooner. Thanks again. This is the kind of info I'm looking for.
You really did give that knife a hard time, id consider buying one as a utility knife. God bless Doug
At this point, I'd say it's good for utility after gluing in the blade w/ JB Weld. Without that "mod" I'd say it's a dangerous knife. Mine had severe blade wobble quite quickly.
Your knife throwing skills are good, I really enjoyed this video. Thanks
thank you. I'm glad to hear it
I love what you have done, Doug. I have watched so many videos where people buy this inexpensive gear, and just poo poo it. It's totally negative. They also use the gear beyond its capabilities to the point of failure. Welll no kidding. What I want to see is how can we use this inexpensive gear. What it can do. Not what it can not do. Let's make constructive videos. Making a video that simply destroys an economical piece of gear is not helpful. Thanks, Doug.
Thank you very much. I'm having fun making these videos, and I'm happy to hear that you and others like to watch them. We have a zillion TV channels and nothings on. There's very little that I like. So I turned to youtube, etc. IMO there isn't enough content of the kind I like. One reason I started the channel was to create the kind of content I like. Also I wanted to make it family friendly (no bad language, and things like that).
Doug, I love your solution.
Thank you. I was happy that the simple "fix" worked so well....
Thank you for sharing your experience with this knife. After seeing someone else throw off on this knife I bought one (because I’m contrary?) and did a similar thing to it. The blade is still firmly connected to the handle and waterproof after hard use. It’s still not my go to but it’s better than a rock or stick and if I loose it I won’t be filling an insurance claim. As an aside, one can take it on a canoe/kayak camping trip and be assured the contents inside the handle will be dry if for some reason you’re thrown out of your craft in rapids and it’s good for clearing a path through a briar patch once you’re out of the water. Don’t ask me how I know.
Good work bro. It would be interesting to see how it holds up long term.
Thank you. I'm still kinda obsessed w/ this knife. So people wanting to see more of it is nice to hear......
I bought one too. Couldn't pass it up. I will mod mine with JB weld also. Great test. Thanks Doug!
Seeing this knife on TH-cam l went out & got one. I’m going to put JB weld on it like you did. Saw other ideas but your mod looks so simple & works. Bless you.
I hope you like it and have fun. God bless.
Good insightful information and demonstration of the multiple wide uses of this outstanding base of an inexpensive durable ,practical, useful Surrival knife.
You took the right action by reinforcing the blade to the handle with JB Weld epoxy.
Gordon seems to be a Harbor Freight house brand of knifes.
This Harbor Freight Surrival knife makes for an excellent
Emergency situation Spear to deal with situations with dangerous wildlife.
Just use a Harbor Freight telescopic handle with a paint roller handle threaded end cut out and reversed fitted into the hollow of the handle to secure screw connect the knife handle to the telescopic handle.
Do you (or someone else) have a video of the spear mod you mentioned? That sounds very interesting. I am thinking now about making a video on that subject. I'll give the person credit and link to the person's video if there is one. Thank you.
@@DougShoeBushcraft
Check out the TH-cam video
" Tutorial $25.00 Alien Predator Combi Stick -Spear DIY"
From G3 AR Geek Gadget YT channel.
@@MrHrKaidoOjamaaVKJV I found it! Thank you! I think you meant --- G3AR - 'GreekGadgetGuru'. The link to the video is--- th-cam.com/video/KnXX7KeiSNc/w-d-xo.htmlsi=nrAZfJSH2VYtRPhR . I might do a similar project and link back to him for credit. I think I'd build the project a little differently and then test it. I'd show the viewers how the spear performed. EDIT- another video on the same channel. th-cam.com/video/g1p7I2rRYHY/w-d-xo.htmlsi=VT3Q-EFcev9f1jMH
@DougShoeBushcraft
Yes, that's him/ it.
Yes, indeed, that DIY spear is truly an effective,practical, Personal Defense Safety Device for people dealing with emergency situations with dangerous wildlife.
I have one of these knifes, I put it in a dry box in my boat with other tools and emergency supplies. I could get stranded and need a knife like this at some point. The mod is coming for sure. I would get a syringe and use that to put the mixture into the area needed. Great mod for sure, once it fails if it does, then go buy another one and repeat.
thank you. Yes, I have the same mind set
I have 2 of them and really enjoyed this video! I will be modded mine as well!! To include forming a large bushcraft sheath out of pvc for one of them! I have a "Rambo" copy with the hollow handle that I will now go back and reinforce with JB WELD as well! Thanks for this video! New fan here!
A friend just gave me one of these . I've always been a bit of a knife snob lol and I didn't have the heart to laugh... but watching this video I'm gonna do your mod ... I've always seen these knives as a novelty. But maybe I'm wrong. I have to say ot has a pretty good fishing kit too
I still have the knife. I'm still beating on it, and it hasn't broken yet. So IMHO it's a functional utility knife / mini machete. -once you glue in the blade with JB Weld Kwikweld. I tested the knife w/o the glue and it started coming apart the first day. I batoned and threw it etc and that ruined it. The blade became dangerously loose.
I bought one of these just yesterday. Definitely going to JB weld it and use red loctite on the set screw. Mine came fairly sharp, I could shave hair off my arm right out of the package!
Great mod and great video
Thanks for your video. That jump looked risky. Stay safe.
Maybe add some Loctite to the screw. Great review. Thanks.
Thank you. That's a good thing to think about. The way I did it, I believe the set screw has been epoxied in place by the J B Weld Quick Weld. I did check it, and it seems to be stuck now.
After removing Allen screw find drill size to go through handle make sure it's size for a sell pin, nail to be snug.. do the job weld and put snug pin through or nail and that's a double secure feature.. not my idea seen it on TH-cam don't know the man's name but thanks for sharing
Thank you. That's another method to try. I've seen people do that on TH-cam and wondered if it would make the knife stronger or weaker. I think it would be drilling through an "X" support that's part of the handle.
@@DougShoeBushcraft oh ok great video however
Good video Doug , thanks for sharing , God bless !
Thank you. God bless you, too
Sorry I missed the premier - full tang is the way to go - if that spine (tang) was longer you could have put it into a antler shed or bone for the handle , but you wouldn't have that little storage handle - cool vid 👍 -
thank you. Yes full tang is much stronger by design.....
I bought one just for looks. Had one when I was a kid. They look cool hanging on the wall.
Neat. I like they way they look, too. It's part of the appeal, but I couldn't tell you why
For that price use it. I hate banging on an expensive knife. Goot video.
Thank you. My thoughts, exactly.
Doug, I think you’ve already gotten more than $6.99 worth of fun, Lol. Any time it survives past this video is icing on the cake, lol. Great idea to make it more durable.
LOL! So much fun...
It’s definitely sharp! I bought 3 haven’t used it yet for 8.00
More than an excellent knife for the money
I have one of these. Never really use it. But one cool idea I had was attaching a 3 ft handle to it from the hand guard. Has two holes in it that could easily attach too
Really enjoyed the video. Looks like with the JB Weld, it can be a great secondary knife or special use knife. It has the length for a bushcraft knife but bigger than i like for an EDC.
I suggest checking out HF Icon folding knife. I've been pleasantly surprised by it and it's become one of my daily carry knives.
It is definitely worth more than it cost😊
Putting that JB weld on it helped want to do that to mine
I would buy this for the ability to have a robust spear and wild animal defense blade. The camp chores or digging is a bonus if you need a beater.
yes I agree
FUN!!!
Great idea - Thanks!
😎👍
Gas lighter inside the handle is sweet spot, its very useful
Simple modification that works. I'm sure there are some other simple modifications you could make to this knife and make it even more reliable.
-pop the handle off your ferro
-86 the candle. Impregnate your cotton w/ vaseline. Store in craft bag
-86 the mini Bic. Replace with a spun aluminum peanut lighter (Amazon)
UTILIZE THE NEW/ EXCESS ROOM WITH:
-Whirl Pak H20 bag w/ 6 Aqua Tabs
-2 needles
-16P nail (sharpened)
-fish hooks, swivels, split shot (in a craft bag)
-Full roll of flavorless dental floss (minus the plastic case)
-2 Lg safety pins
-30 to 40 feet kevlar cordage 75lb test
-22 gauge stainless craft wire (15-20feet)
-O light mini (Amazon)
Wrap the tools tightly in Reynolds barbecue pro heavy gauge foil like a chimichanga
Equip the pommel with 275 cord. By wrapping it around a slender ferro rod core then overhand & wrap (like the stagehands stored sisal hanks back in the old days) it makes a 3.5 inch long bee that’s attractive and offers 15 feet of 275 cord. Now that knife offers a few doodads to play with while angsting about “why didn’t I tell my wife to call EMS at 7 instead of 8?!?!” 😉
Great ideas. Thank you.
Well done on the demonstration, thanks! A year later, how is it holding up still?
Hey that was a good demonstration of a mod to a cheap knife and for your question hey man if it works for you that's all that counts it don't have to work for somebody else you make you happy that's all
Thank you for the comment. Yes, I couldn't agree more. That is the right answer for me. I've continued to use the knife and it's fine. In the next video featuring this knife I cut down a literal tree with it........
Wrap some bank line around the handle, gives you some grip and cordage to boot.
Sounds good. Thank you for watching &B commenting.
I just purchased one of these knives and I removed the screw but the blade would not come out. I shined a light down inside the handle and it definitely looks like it’s glued in place, just on the stub tang. Maybe Gordon glues them in now? 🤷🏻♂️. I smacked it on a stump several times but the blade wouldn’t budge. I ultimately put some loctite on the screw and put it back in the handle. It seems very solid.
That's interesting. That's for commenting with your experience. I will check and maybe buy another HF survival knife to see for myself. The blade fell right out (in this video, in my example) because I had previously beat up the knife a little bit without the glue mod. So if you put yours to rough use, I'd be careful at first and check for looseness. If the company didn't glue in the blade, it will become use, I think. If the company has started gluing in the blade, then I wonder if they are listening to me or other customers. I'd love to take credit for it. ha ha
@@DougShoeBushcraft ,... I purchased a second one and the blade came out pretty easy, I think the first one was just wedged in tighter.
Great hard test. I'd have no worries using the modded Rambo knife. Pretty damn tough.
The attraction of that hollow handle is hard to resist. It's an odd thing, as it doesn't hold much, but it's great having a survival kit that's always with you when you have your knife.
In a perfect World, it'd be a steel handle, as Aluminium is fairly brittle, but it would be a lot more difficult and expensive to make.
Thank you. Yes I'm wondering if the aluminum handle will break spontaneously. ...I wonder if temp extremes this winter would cause it to break. I had a hollow-handled steel knife back in the day (an old Swedish bayonet, maybe WWII era). It wasn't as hollow a handle as this knife, but it was somewhat similar (as I'm remembering it anyway)
@@DougShoeBushcraft When you're feeling rich, it'd be cool to see you test out an expensive hollow handled knife. Not even sure if they exist any more. The last one I saw were the Chris Reeves ones, back in the 80s.
Interesting about your hollow handled bayonet. I wonder if soldiers used that feature?
@@jeffreybarton1297 the bayonet had a hollow in the handle to allow it to attach to the rifle. It wasn't intended for storage, but that's the idea I had
As a modern intellectual, I'm of the opinion that JB Weld and/or Gorilla Glue can and will fix just about anything. Also, I'd like to know what grade of stainless steel Gordon (the Harbor Freight knife brand) uses. I'm not sure if it's 440A or AUS6 or what but it seems to have a good balance between edge retention and fatigue resistance. You get a lemon more often than with name brands but, 9/10 of the time the heat treat is pretty good. A shame that handle's already so big around or you could lash some wood shims to the top and bottom to ovalize it. And, as an addendum, do NOT buy the Harbor Freight brand JB Weld. lol Don't trust it.
It's supposed to be made of 3Cr13 stainless steel, which Knife User Do t C om says is "cheap and good quality, and allows making affordable and durable knives."
Was that a one of those trick birthday candles, that re-light when blown out?
Great vid. Very informative.
Good mod on that knife. Thanks for showing us. Take care.
Hi, Quinn. Nice to see you
rambo would be proud!
Thank you. I'd like to think so
I know I’m late to this party but I enjoyed your video and idea to toughen the tool up for some serious use! I also don’t see many guys throw one that accurately with that amount of force! Do you have a video on throwing by any chance?
this is my video on how to throw a knife and axe- th-cam.com/video/O6GYh8M2tqo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=eDrS-enwNpOML3Z6 It's fine to comment on older videos. Thank you.
@@DougShoeBushcraft thank you!
3 simple mods for this knife
1. replace the blade with a full tang blade
2. replace the handle with a solid handle
3. replace the hilt with something that doesn't hold everything together with a set screw.
2 mods for this knife- 1. Throw in trash. 2. Buy good knife. ha ha ha
Good job; but, I'd use some GLOVES when pulling/replacing that blade. You might be surprised at how fast and easy it is to get CUT by a "cheap" knife! [I've found it out the HARD way] 😉
you're right. Thanks for promoting safety
GOOD TEST I didn't think it would hold up to what you done to this Knife...I have to say WOnow I still wouldn't trust this k ife but you made this 9$ Knife look like a 100$ knife..
thank you so much
I always wondered if you could weld the tang. I don't know anything about welding though. Maybe someone can chime in.
Do you mean weld the blade into the handle? The handle is aluminum. So I believe you'd need someone skilled in that sort of welding. I think there are few people able to do it.
@@DougShoeBushcraft Yep. That's exactly what I mean. I'm sure it would make it virtually indestructible and in concept, almost like a full tang. I appreciate you answering. It would be a cool project for a welder with spare materials lying around.
What about the toughness and blade sharpnesses??
I'm very impressed with waterweld
Put an inner tube over the handle for a better grip. New subscriber.
Thanks for the demo,gotta wonder if it can be sharpened if so will it hold an edge?
The steel on the one example I have is hard and will hold an edge. I would say it holds an edge very well, but is a little difficult to sharpen (because of the hardness). In another video, I used a diamond sharpener to change the grind angle near the base of the blade for finer tasks. It came with a final edge not very steep (similar to that on a machete)
You didn’t try the saw. I was hoping you would tell us how to sharpen/ improve it.
What a fun video
I think the mod is a good one. Enjoyed watching.
Thank you. That's nice to hear.
You need to try the Rothco ramster...its almost an exact replica of the buck.very heavy duty.
5 times better at $55?
Great video and mod, unfortunately the matches may not survive all the vibration from beating. I played with the original cheap Rambo knives as a kid.
Very good point. Thank you. This is one of my favorite knives and I'm not sure why. It's just fun I guess. But over months of time I have noticed damage to the matches and a powder inside the handle (from the match heads). I haven't had matches fail yet, but it could happen. Yes many of us had the cheap Rambo knife as kids. For others the hollow-handled survival knife is a fun idea. But the hollow handle isn't the best place to have things like matches or a compass, etc. The gear gets beat up with the shock and vibration.
@DougShoeBushcraft yes and I think the powder inside is caused by 2 dissimilar metals, galvanic corrosion.
So how has it held up.. any issues.. thanks i enjoyed the video
It's holding up. I use it often. Also, there is a playlist on the channel dedicated to the Harbor Freight survival knife. Four videos so far. Future videos of the knife will be posted here---> th-cam.com/play/PLBmawvCJdqFyRr5omm8ByFaSA7qwv4fIU.html
@@DougShoeBushcraft thanks
I have that one and I paid $34.99 for one like it on BUDK the holster is a sling shot too it's called one shot one kill.
I'm going to use Harbor Freights version of JB WELD and I'm drilling the hole out and puting in a solid pin.
I also Like Harbor Freights Machete.
And if you don't like Harbor Freights Knife Old Timer makes one out of a solid piece of metal.
Got two and doing JBW this weekend
I thought about hammering the handle flat or trying to squish the center in a vice.
the handle is aluminum so I think it would crack.
That rainbow movie knife was a very expensive buck master😊
How is performing your Survival knife 🔪 till these days ?
I think you're on to something here. One thing I would have done is rough up the blade where the jb weld would be with a little sand paper to make it adhere better. But definitely, you are on to something. I have one of those knives. I'm going to do your mod and beat the snot out of it.
Yes. You are 100% right about roughing up the blade first. It would give the epoxy even more grip. Thank you.
So…. How has the JB weld held up 2 years later?
still going strong
Phil 4:13 good video doug god bless
I have 2 of these and will definitely be doing the JB weld mod and adding tot he kit in the handle. Just might get another one too. Thanks much. Oh, forgot. When the handle is wet and hands wet it seems to be a little slippery. Any mods to make the handle more 'grippier'?
Inner tube for road bicycle, cut rings and roll them to be flat on the flat areas of the handle between each knurled part
Just be sure TO CHECK THAT SET SCREW! Usually quite loose from factory!
The screw on mine came tight. (But I only have the one example of the knife). In another video I start using it as received out of the blister pack. With rough use the blade became dangerously loose the first day. But then in this video, I glued the blade into the handle. When I did that, the screw became glued in place.
I superglue mine in place!
First thought seeing the partial rat tail detached from the hilt: a set screw? Secondly: if one made it a through bolt with nylock wingnut; the same hardware could be used to creat a formidable spear that enjoys more purchase via the hardware than the cordage bindings we typically see. Lastly there is absolutely nothing wrong with you. I have the same sickness. Between my wallet, pockets and “money belt” I carry more survival tools EDC than one can cram into a .75” by 3” hollow spun aluminum hilt. Nonetheless on long drives I daydream about the survival camps I could build with the perfectly ingenious selection of wire, a nail, some duct tape & matches in my $9 Harbor Freight knife (that was $5 until a few years ago)😉
Very nice. Thank you for letting me know
It seems little strange to see you so violent Doug,, lol. The way you were swinging that knife at the tree. Though your throws were Right on. I could see that sticking in a Black Bears Head while charging you. Just like Daniel Boon Shoe craft. Then throwing the spear.. wow... Better be careful you don't call in some wild attacking woodpeckers, lol or Sasquatch. Have to admit, the thing held up to everything you through at it,, pretty Cool . God Bless my friend my Brother. Amen
Big Jim New Hampshire USA aka Boston Strong
Wow! That's what I call a torcher test. Nice mod to improve a cheap knife.
Go with God.
Thank you, B.J. Glenn. God bless you, too
i had one of those knives i too probably 10 years ago changed some things in the survival kit as well however i didnt use that knife for camping it stayed in my fishing bucket
it wasnt really sharp enough from the factory to be useful so i sharpened it
one day after fishing was getting ready to leave took the knife off my belt laid it on top of my car it hit the the asphalt from a car moving about 45 mph i stopped to retrieve the knife
but the blade and handle had shattered i only found bits and pieces of both didnt find the sheath at all
the knife is ok and will work with mods but it most certainly is not a quality unit i used my knife mostly for cutting fish heads off (bait) and never any serious hardcore survivalist stuff it just cant handle that the materials just arent suited for anything heavy
thank you for sharing your experiences with the knife. That is real world testimony. I believe the handle is thin wall aluminum. So, I can see it shattering if it hit the asphalt at 45 mph. Yes I think there are a lot of other knife designs that likely would have survived something like that.
@@DougShoeBushcraft hey if you have the time come on by my channel i have just small hobbyist channel i have small engine stuff gun stuff diy stuff and more
your boumd to find something useful
You made it into a full tank when your jb welded it
I BOUGHT ONE. FOR THE PRICE, HOW CAN I GO WRONG?
That was his knife. But I like your video so I definitely subscribed.
Keep up the good work bo.
Thank you. I never meant to imply that Rambo didn't have the video earlier in the movie. A lot of people have taken it that way. When he escaped from the police station, the knife is the one thing he grabbed.
Good job 👍
thank you
What about the contents in handle.
I reviewed the handle contents in an earlier video--- th-cam.com/video/FMlWdLGxz3M/w-d-xo.html&feature=shares It's around the 11 minute mark if you want to skip ahead to that.
Its good for in a cash if you are on a budget as its still better than a bone or flint knife.
Good point. Thank you.
@@DougShoeBushcraft Yep you are welcome.
That's a overnight camp knife, but I wouldn't count on it for long-term survival, but if you were fool enough to have counted on one, when SHTF, its better then nothing , personally I got a buck 119 in my bug out bag, others to, like a Mora and a Kershaw camp 10 , still need to upgrade my multi tool but I got a cheap Geber from Walmart
I think it would serve you in a bad situation if you don't have a better full tang knife if you do the modification with the jb weld.
I think so, too. Thanks so much for leaving a comment
Enjoyed that one. Should work until Harbor Freight starts selling Randall Made Knives, LOL.
This one has the adjustment screws the newer ones had glue they were welded the newer ones are stainless steel not a bad knife for $8
I don't understand. Are you saying the Gordon Survival Knives currently sold by Harbor Freight have no adjustment screw and also the blades are glued into the handle by the manufacturer?
@@DougShoeBushcraft Answer, no. Bought one today, has set screw, no glue. Bought it for a spear top for my hiking staff, I expect I'll be thrusting with it, not throwing it, but very satisfied to see it take that beating.