I've been using Old Hickory knives in the woods for over 60 years. They work well. The older ones definitely have thicker metal. I never altered the butcher model pretty much using it as is, except that I carved grooves into the handles to make them more slip resistant when wet or bloody. I have also used the 8 inch boning model. When Making sheaths, I tend to saddle stitch them with stainless steel wire, to resist cutting and rusting. I have made some very practical sheathes from heavy, truck inner tubes, not pretty, but work very well. I always leave an opening at the bottom to let water and dirt run out. Some kinds of leather are cured with salt, and will rust your blade, especially in long, humid storage. Also in over 6 decades camping, , I never had the need or desire to pound my knife into wood with a club. I guess that is a TH-cam kind of thing. Likewise, since Bic made lighters, I have never needed anything else, even on multi-month trips.
Great idea on using heavy inner tubes for a sheath, Tom. Yeah, I've never had to baton with a knife either, but I do understand the potential benefit of being able to do so in a true survival situation. Admittedly, that's something most of us will never be faced with, but I believe in the Boy Scout motto. That's why I always include that in my fixed blade knife reviews. I do tend to agree it's become way over emphasized. I carry a Bic too, but I have to admit I really like my ferro rod and some fatwood. Maybe it's a hold over from my Boy Scout days when we had to try to build a fire with one match and using a lighter was considered cheating. I just figure why not use the opportunity to practice some of those "just in case" skills. Having said that, in a true emergency anything goes and I'm going with whatever is easiest and has the highest chance of success. That's probably either a Bic or Zippo.Thanks for watching and sharing your decades of experience. Our community needs folks like you to help teach all of us. - Bryan
Yeah, I actually decided the other day to get one. Might as well go on over to the PreparedMind101 Amazon store and get one, since it won't help anyone if I buy it from my own store ;-) ( I know, that was a backhanded plug, sorry) So can you tell me the difference between the Ken Onion version and the standard one, other than about twice the price?
+hawknives Thanks. I'm thinking about getting another one for some different ideas I have (that do not include a notch on the spine, it was not an improvement).
Survival On Purpose Ken Onion can sharpen damn near anything to a very fine result. But if you get the original with all three guides you won't be disappointed.
Nice mods, bro. I've been using butcher knives in the woods my whole life. Never had one break, never had the handles come loose, or even lost a rivet. They are great knives. I have a full set of Old Hickorys, and various pieces from several other makers. My favorite is a Case model 431-6...It is my favorite knife by far.
You could also make a classical sheet by layering your leather. sown and rivetted they do last. go wide when making the sheet will be cut by your edge.
I love the Old Hickorys. They have been around a LONG time! My grandparents had these butcher knives. I love to still see them around. Very nostalgic! Nice video. Thanks for sharing.
A patina is a form or corrosion just like rust. Main difference is that once you stop the corrosion process by removing from mustard or vinegar, the metal will not corrode any further forming rust.
Hello brian The steel is 1095 did you epoxy the handles they can come loose there is a youtube video on removing the handles youtube search Old Hickory Handle Removal Tutorial
Say Heah Brian, I didn't modify a Old Hickory to a Kephart, But when I found out that Ice Skate Blades were made out of 12c27 Stainless Sandvik Stainless Steel, I started to use my KS 5 from my Stromeng Set, The handle is a no frill but very comfortable when allows my hand to swallow the handle that I have all control of a smaller blade, infact the way I can hold it, I can use it as good as a 4" blade, and yet it's a 5" blade, it's also as thick as the Mora at .08" thick I always wanted a Lueku when I first saw one. So I bought a set, the KS 9 which is a 9" Carbon blsde and the Bhuku STAK a 3 1/2" blade with a very fancy handle, I also found out the Bhuku STAK is a close copy to the knife the Olympians got for participating in the Olympics there, It's a beauty and the lightest knife I own, I don't even know I'm wearing it around my neck, Some even say the Mora Stainless Steel is as good as the carbon steel ones, If that's right, then I'll use it because it won't rust as easy, Thanx again Brisn, good job, , ,
Old Hickory knives especially the new ones are in need of a few adjustments. 1- sanding down the sharp edges of the handle 2- A dremel with a sanding wheel to put in a small finger choil and rounding the blade corner off for safety. These new ones are still a lot bang for the buck....but they're not what they used to be when every general store and quick mart sold them years ago, they had better steel and more attention was paid to fit and finish. As to finding the old ones..check out estate sales in your area, especially old farm sales.
As I posted in reply to the first SOP video on the OH 7-inch butcher knife, the official Ka-Bar 7-inch leather sheath fits the unaltered OH knife perfectly. I just got two for my pair of vintage OH's and they look great together. You can find them (without any military logo, too) for under $10 on Amazon. I'm sure SOP will post a link that will help support his channel, too.
Thanks for the video, I have one of these which I use mostly at home but do know that this is a good, inexpensive outdoor knife too. I wish they were available with a sheath but, as you point out, a leather sheath costs more than the knife itself. Perhaps a Mora style, cheap and cheerful, plastic sheath could be produced by the makers. That would be handy for home use as well as outdoors. I keep mine in a knife block and use it every day. I'm not sure about that ferro rod notch, I see that it has not caused the blade to break but the spine works well on its own, particularly if you file it to 90 degrees as you have done. I also find that holding the knife still and pulling the ferro rod backward gives a better shower of sparks and directs them more accurately than pushing the knife forward. The cuting edge is not good when new but I found that the steel is quality enough to get a really sharp edge, mine will shave hairs from your arm without problem. I used a 1200 water stone to get the initial sharpness and maintain it with a few strokes on a Lansky Turning Box ceramic rod set up at 20 degrees angle. Thanks again for the vid, I would say that the Old Hickory butcher knife is a good all rounder, excellent for dressing game, feather sticks, rough carving, de-barking - less good for batoning as the blade is just too thin.
I have the butcher knife version and the skinner version, and they really are pretty good knives over all. I plan on modifying my skinner into a Nessmuck style knife eventually. Good video!
These are very good knifes for the money. I have 2 of them mine are very old one of them even survived a house fire. The only thing I would have done differently is I would take advantage of that Scandinavian grind on the blade and sharpened with the existing bevel on it.
Thanks for that video. I was thinking exactly along those same lines. You've just convinced me. This is the very first comment I've ever made on TH-cam. Am now subscribed. Will be watching in the future.
Have you seen the Ontario Hop Knife? Looks almost the same, 7 inch HC steel but is around half the price up here in Canada through amazon? Wondering if it has a square edge for throwing sparks.
Survival On Purpose They are only $9 here and the Old Hickory is around $25. Been hitting the goodwill stores looking for a decent used one but have not found one.
With everyone doing a video of the Old Hickory the price will go through the roof. I just noticed there were over 30 videos on it. Amazon has them up at $24 now. Amazing how the 'survivalist' market can affect the price point. Still a good video Bryan. That beating test on that tree was a good one.
A J Taylor Hey AJ, they're still under $11 here: survivalonpurpose.com/Old-Hickory-7 But I have to say the last one I bought had a horrible edge on it. Still good steel and still a bargain but the edge was really bad.
You ain't kidding! A few years ago I picked up one of the stainless steel swedish mess kits. Had the windscreen, burner, silverware, cup, fuel bottle and was practically brand new for $50. I went to look into getting another one a few months ago and they want $150 just for the pots with no windscreen, and beat to hell! Saw one that was like mine, with the same contents and roughly the same condition, and they wanted $260 for it. I say we stop doing videos on this stuff, and just spread the news by word of mouth or something, maybe the prices will stay reasonable. Lol.
Brian, have you thought about using gun blue to create a patina, and make the blade more rust resistant ?? I understand that the old French Canadian fur trappers relied, pretty much entirely, on the old butcher knives as a general purpose bush craft, and butchering tool.
How did you get the handle dark like that? Is it just from use, some type of wood stain or did you submerge the whole knife while doing the forced patina?
Have had good results in forcing a patina, by using gun barrel cold blue. It will do as good a job on a knife blade as it does on a rifle, or shotgun barrel; requires a several applications, and a bit of time...Cheers.
You demonstrated that the knife couldn’t shave hair. Is this the nature of that particular steel, can it hold a good edge, or were you simply indicating that you hadn’t yet sharpened it as much as you’d like?
Thanks for the interesting and informative video. I am going to keep my eyes open in resale shops for one of those. When i first saw the semi circular notch on the spine of that knife I thought you had bought it in California and it had been De-Milled. Haha. I liked the look of the DIY sheath......even though you said it looked like a sewed up cow's butt.
I don't see why not. They are carbon steel and are very similar to the Old Hickory. I don't know what kind of steel they are made of but I have a couple of old ones too. I just don't have a butcher knife blade, mine are thinner.
they look just like the blades you showed that is why i was asking the black striping and all they just don't say old hickory on them thank you for the information have a wonderful day
Say Heah Brian, I have a younger friend that was recently married and family on the way, so when he seem my Stromeng Leuku, He decided to modify a Olé Hickory the longest one and suprisingly it does give the Leuku A Run For THE mkney, It's not as good, but acceptable. People do alot of great things with their Olé Hick's, some make them into Kephart Style knives, some just leave them stock, and some just pimp them out to look nicer. They are reasonably priced and worst case senerio, you can use it in the kitchen. Kewl Beanz !!!
I use cling wrap wrapped around the blade with a thin layer of vaseline on the steel when I wet form/fit a sheath. Patina is key and from a $5 yard sale Mora to a $400 Ray Mears knife- it is just a tool and should be used and exposed to environment. Good video as usual.
I used olive oil and cling wrap but I guess the oil wasn't thick enough. I didn't want to use a petroleum product because I wanted to avoid possible future food contamination. Maybe I'll try Crisco next time. That stuff lasts forever.
I work at a National Park Service Historic Site. Over the years I have purchased a number of Old Hickory Knives. They seem to take an edge but the metal is too low carbon OR the temper is too soft and they go dull so fast it is frustrating. I finally threw them out.
I don't mean to come across as rude or anything, but what is the obsession I've been seeing the last couple years with everyone trying to do axe work with knives? I've seen numerous videos on it and I simply don't get it. A knife is for cutting things. An axe is for splitting and chopping. I've seen some where they're reviewing a nessmuk for example, and complain about how they cant baton with its 4 inch blade. (a process I'd never heard of in 20 years of outdoor experience till recently) Well of course they can't. its a skinning and meat cutting blade by design. Could someone explain where the obsession on knives needing to be a scalpel, firestarter and axe all in one has come from to me please? I simply don't understand it.
shadowstalker130666 I understand what you mean. I never used a knife to baton wood either until a few years ago. I think the "obsession" started with the concept of the "one tool option" in case of a potential survival situation. This idea gained widespread attention with the increasing popularity of "survival TV" shows. The premise being that if you wound up with only what you had on your person, you would hopefully have your belt knife on your belt. Having a knife that can do multiple tasks would be a big benefit in those circumstances. So for of us who somehow fell into the knife review world,it is sort of expected to show that a blade is capable of doing all those different things. I will say that I have decided that it is often more convenient in the woods to carry a knife that is capable of light to medium chopping and other tasks. It lives on my belt and keeps my hands free until I need it, but I don't have to carry an axe or hatchet around for random chopping tasks. As for using the knife with a baton, I have found it a lot easier (and I think safer) to use a knife and baton instead of a hatchet for fire prep once the wood gets down to a certain size. Bottom line, I and many other folks just find it simpler and often more convenient to have a knife that does a lot of things well. Does that involve compromise? Of course, but I think it's worth it. Sorry for the long, rambling response. Thanks for watching and asking such a thought provoking question.
No need to apologize. I appreciate the informative explaination. I personally always have several cutting tools as well as my hawk on my person. I also learned how to compensate for not having an axe or hawk for splitting by whittling wedges with my pocket knife. and then using a rock or heavy piece of wood to drive it in to split the wood. Perhaps sometime when I can afford a camera I'll have to make a video showing how I do that. Have a great day, and stay safe out there.
Yup, that's why I have a GFB small forest and a plump hatchet (only bring one depending on how much wood I'm gonna need to process.). Not only is it less efficient, more dangerous and not good for the knife. It forces you to bring a giant mother of a sword instead of a sensible sized blade. My mentality (and most people who actually spend lots of time in the woods, not just short hikes every now and then and bring their camera) is to buy something once. Maybe twice. I buy an expensive GFB once, I will give it to my grand kids, much like my grandfather gave me my plumb hatchet. You buy a tool for life, you treat it as well as you can, it doesn't fail, you're never screwed. I have this same knife, you know what I did to it? Nothing. You know what I use it for? Cutting my meat and vegetables. Go figure. What I'm saying is everything shadow says, plus: save up, buy something good, once. Don't beat on your stuff. If you know you're going to be processing wood, bring the right tools (axe, hatchet, saw), not a 30 year old butcher knife.
Harley Ross I hear everything you guys are saying and I really agree with some of it. However, I think you are missing a pretty big distinction between going in the woods and using tools you brought with you to do whatever you are doing and making a video to show the capabilities and or/limitations of a particular piece of gear. They are two different things and I think it is shortsighted to assume that because someone does something in a video made for the express purpose of testing and evaluating a tool, that that person thinks that is an ordinary and everyday use of the tool. As I explained in my original reply to this thread, I rarely use a knife to baton wood, although I have fairly recently decided I prefer doing so for lighter processing of smaller wood. But I do think it's a decent way to test the potential durability of a knife. And, for better or worse, it has sort of become an expected part of a fixed blade knife review. What I am continually at a loss to explain is why so many people feel the need to belittle and insult anyone who may have a different opinion about something. There are usually many ways to achieve the same result and it's results that count. Like a guy once told me about golf: they don't ask you how, just how many. The problem I have with folks like that is they can cause folks just starting out to just quit because they don't feel like they could ever measure up to someone else's "correct" way of doing things. Not to mention it's just plain bad manners. If those type folks really cared about making sure folks were doing things the "right way", they could offer some positive suggestions about how to improve someone's technique or skills. But, if they would rather leave insulting and sarcastic comments, then I welcome them to do so here, instead of on some beginner's channel who may actually decide to give up because of it. Just one of the services I'm happy to provide.
hey bryan. I know this is something that you probably are aware of, but I found out the K Bar fighter knife sheath fits the Ol' Hickory perfectly. Has a snap on the leather and is about $13 on Amazon. Don't know if you have one in your store, but i am on my way to check. Great vid as always. I am getting another one and am going to bring it down to 5".
This one?th-cam.com/video/V-DJXKluRCw/w-d-xo.html And the store is pretty much unattended at this point. It just seemed to make more sense to link directly to either whatever item I am reviewing or to the Amazon home page. That allows the viewer to search Amazon for whatever they want and anything purchased during that session still helps me pay the bills. The "Amazon Store" interface is just a little clunky. It is not clear whether Prime works and it is not intuitive as to how to fins items I might not have listed in the store. Plus, it takes a lot of time to keep it updated. If you would like to support the channel (and I REALLY appreciate it), just use this link every time you want to buy something on Amazon: SurvivalOnPurpose.com/Amazon
Nice review, I was really skeptical about the notch but when you batonned you also forced side pressure and it did not break. Although I am not a fan of notches, my Habilis SRT has one, I believe you still have a viable knife. Thanks for your time and family oriented videos. I actually let my daughter watch your channel without hesitation. Have a great day and be safe! Just a suggestion, a good pair of leather gloves may save your hand should you have a knife break during testing.
shaving sharp may to sharp bryan , the edge could roll easy..i use a old school western ,and a sears and roebuck that don't shave..lol. but they are just as good as the expensive knifes..i like your style of thinking bryan... ..bill
I like a good bargain, and this seems to fit. Love the mods. Been playing around with that myself, using vinegar, lemons, and even bleach to force a patina on some carbon steel blades. Seems to wear off too easily though. any ideas?
Say Heah Brian, Did I mention, The 7" Old Hickories fit the Ka-Bar U. S. C. M. aafter market sheath's fit them pretty good, you can get them for around $7.00-$8.00.,,.
Mine will shave hair easily, and I did not need the useless notch. As far as the sheath goes, try dipping it into a 3 to 1 ratio of beeswax to paraffin and hot forming the knife. It will have great retention, and be impervious to the elements.
Yeah, the notch is pretty useless but I haven't figures out how to "un-notch" it. It doesn't seem to hurt the blade. Sometimes you try stuff to see how it works, I like the wax idea, I might try it.
I like your thinking. Common man knife and common man alterations. I strongly believe in one item with multiple uses. Why carry three separate tools when you can carry one tool that performs three tasks. That's why knives and tomahawks are awesome. They are the original multitools.
Cool. I have two main hawks and several others that are for show. I've used hawks for not only chopping and cutting tools but also for use while climbing up slopes, ya can extend your reach to grab that tree just out of reach, using the handle without the head on to baton a knife into small bits of wood, using the whole hawk as a pot grabber for around the fire pit, I've even tried using the handle as a casting and reeling devide for fishing. And it worked. The uses are limitless
Russell Simmons I actually used mine for something other than a test for the first time today. I trimmed some branches off a tree at my parents' house and uses the hawk to de-limb the branches after they were down. I was really pleased with how well it performed. Not as sharp as my Wetterlings, but way sharper than I expected.
I love these knives and have 2. If Ontario took the same blade profile/same steel, but made it just a bit thicker (1/8-3/16 of an inch), put 6 smaller brass pins, and rounded the handle- I'd pay $30 for it (if it included a sheath) and it would be in a category of its own (Vintage Frontiersman Bushcraft knife). Many of the old-style bushcraft knives are extremely expensive.
'mornin, Bryan; Glad U made a sheath 4 the 'ole Hickory,She Deserves It.That 'ole gal should last a while.Thanks 4 Sharing With Us.Stay Safe Well & Warm,There. Happy Trails From The Maritimes In Canada ATB Terry " GOD BLESS "
For your knife sheath use the old mountain man style sheath like I use , buck skinner style sheath. The belt you wear helps hold the knife in the sheath.. Crazy Crow out of Texas sells them . Crazy Crow Trading supplies all kinds of Native American & period supplies .
Nice mods bud..!!! Im really diggen the old hickory knives - im on a serious search for more old ones or maybe I will buy a couple new ones... Appreciate the link to my channel and vids bro..:)
Survival On Purpose Thanks bud - Im really thinking about getting into knife making on a serious level after I get some more under my belt and tested in real world conditions...
You should get a Svord Peasant and do a review on it. I have one and I have to say it has become one of my favorite knives. It's a bit of an ugly duckling, but it is a great little knife. The design is very old school that allows easy one handed opening. If you have never had one or seen one I highly recommend getting one.
I bought 2. One I use as an actual butchers knife breaking down bulk meat for the freezer and it's saved my more expensive kitchen cleavers and chefs knives from abuse. The second I I packed away oiled for a bad day I hope never happens.
The whole idea of bushcraft/survivalism is the ability to do for yourself.. Now, in peaceful times, you can buy anything. In troubled times, those who survive will be those who are able to produce what they need. The stores will be long gone.
The Kabar sheath fits this knife just right. Amazon has them for less than eleven dollars.
+Bob Ware yes it does.
I've been using Old Hickory knives in the woods for over 60 years. They work well. The older ones definitely have thicker metal.
I never altered the butcher model pretty much using it as is, except that I carved grooves into the handles to make them more slip resistant when wet or bloody. I have also used the 8 inch boning model. When Making sheaths, I tend to saddle stitch them with stainless steel wire, to resist cutting and rusting. I have made some very practical sheathes from heavy, truck inner tubes, not pretty, but work very well. I always leave an opening at the bottom to let water and dirt run out. Some kinds of leather are cured with salt, and will rust your blade, especially in long, humid storage.
Also in over 6 decades camping, , I never had the need or desire to pound my knife into wood with a club. I guess that is a TH-cam kind of thing. Likewise, since Bic made lighters, I have never needed anything else, even on multi-month trips.
Great idea on using heavy inner tubes for a sheath, Tom. Yeah, I've never had to baton with a knife either, but I do understand the potential benefit of being able to do so in a true survival situation. Admittedly, that's something most of us will never be faced with, but I believe in the Boy Scout motto. That's why I always include that in my fixed blade knife reviews. I do tend to agree it's become way over emphasized. I carry a Bic too, but I have to admit I really like my ferro rod and some fatwood. Maybe it's a hold over from my Boy Scout days when we had to try to build a fire with one match and using a lighter was considered cheating. I just figure why not use the opportunity to practice some of those "just in case" skills. Having said that, in a true emergency anything goes and I'm going with whatever is easiest and has the highest chance of success. That's probably either a Bic or Zippo.Thanks for watching and sharing your decades of experience. Our community needs folks like you to help teach all of us. - Bryan
My ferro rod is in a nice plastic case. The case also holds a steel striker wheel, and a supply of tinder (butane). It is called a Bic lighter.
That sheath looks fine for the job and better than I could do so well done.
Thanks Smokey.
No problems my friend.
Worksharp Knife and Tool Sharpener worth the kitchen knife guide would get that thing sharp as hell. Might pick one up today.
Would say it held up pretty good! Great review! Thank you!
Yeah, I actually decided the other day to get one. Might as well go on over to the PreparedMind101 Amazon store and get one, since it won't help anyone if I buy it from my own store ;-) ( I know, that was a backhanded plug, sorry) So can you tell me the difference between the Ken Onion version and the standard one, other than about twice the price?
+hawknives Thanks. I'm thinking about getting another one for some different ideas I have (that do not include a notch on the spine, it was not an improvement).
Survival On Purpose Ken Onion can sharpen damn near anything to a very fine result. But if you get the original with all three guides you won't be disappointed.
I took the top off the top so the spine is completely flat
Nice mods, bro. I've been using butcher knives in the woods my whole life. Never had one break, never had the handles come loose, or even lost a rivet. They are great knives. I have a full set of Old Hickorys, and various pieces from several other makers. My favorite is a Case model 431-6...It is my favorite knife by far.
Yep, I probably am never as hard on my knives in the real world as I am when testing for these videos. These are good knives
Same here. Nice to know they can take it, though.
You could also make a classical sheet by layering your leather. sown and rivetted they do last. go wide when making the sheet will be cut by your edge.
Maybe next time.
I love the Old Hickorys. They have been around a LONG time! My grandparents had these butcher knives. I love to still see them around. Very nostalgic! Nice video. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks Marty.
A patina is a form or corrosion just like rust. Main difference is that once you stop the corrosion process by removing from mustard or vinegar, the metal will not corrode any further forming rust.
Yep
I have the 7 inch model.
Hello brian The steel is 1095 did you epoxy the handles they can come loose
there is a youtube video on removing the handles youtube search Old Hickory Handle Removal Tutorial
Kabar 7" replacement sheath
On Amozon fits good!
I think you have persuaded me to buy one of these.
I think you will like it.
Say Heah Brian, I didn't modify a Old Hickory to a Kephart, But when I found out that Ice Skate Blades were made out of 12c27 Stainless Sandvik Stainless Steel, I started to use my KS 5 from my Stromeng Set, The handle is a no frill but very comfortable when allows my hand to swallow the handle that I have all control of a smaller blade, infact the way I can hold it, I can use it as good as a 4" blade, and yet it's a 5" blade, it's also as thick as the Mora at .08" thick I always wanted a Lueku when I first saw one. So I bought a set, the KS 9 which is a 9" Carbon blsde and the Bhuku STAK a 3 1/2" blade with a very fancy handle, I also found out the Bhuku STAK is a close copy to the knife the Olympians got for participating in the Olympics there, It's a beauty and the lightest knife I own, I don't even know I'm wearing it around my neck, Some even say the Mora Stainless Steel is as good as the carbon steel ones, If that's right, then I'll use it because it won't rust as easy, Thanx again Brisn, good job, , ,
Thanks Paulie.
Old Hickory knives especially the new ones are in need of a few adjustments.
1- sanding down the sharp edges of the handle
2- A dremel with a sanding wheel to put in a small finger choil and rounding the blade corner off for safety.
These new ones are still a lot bang for the buck....but they're not what they used to be when every general store and quick mart sold them years ago, they had better steel and more attention was paid to fit and finish. As to finding the old ones..check out estate sales in your area, especially old farm sales.
Great ideas. Yep, I always look for the old ones. So far no luck, but I'll keep looking.
i find myself looking at many videos you have put out... i must say you really think about things and share info we can really use !! Blessings sir.
Thanks.
you know i still have the one my dad had... not fancy but take a razor edge really easy. thanks again !
As I posted in reply to the first SOP video on the OH 7-inch butcher knife, the official Ka-Bar 7-inch leather sheath fits the unaltered OH knife perfectly. I just got two for my pair of vintage OH's and they look great together. You can find them (without any military logo, too) for under $10 on Amazon. I'm sure SOP will post a link that will help support his channel, too.
I sure will. It looks like a great deal on a good sheath, and a whole lot less work than making one. Here's the lnk: @Old-Hickory-Ka-Bar-Sheath
Mine shaves hair.
+1 on the Kabar sheath. Twelve bucks. The 5” one fits the Green River fish knife very nicely.
that sheath looks dang good for your first attempt
Thanks!
98,000 subscribers!. You must be doing something right. Congrats on the growth of your channel Bryan.
+csh 62 I am humbled and amazed
I bought a leather USMC kabar sheath for mine. Fit perfectly.
abz520 Yes it does: th-cam.com/video/V-DJXKluRCw/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for the video, I have one of these which I use mostly at home but do know that this is a good, inexpensive outdoor knife too. I wish they were available with a sheath but, as you point out, a leather sheath costs more than the knife itself. Perhaps a Mora style, cheap and cheerful, plastic sheath could be produced by the makers. That would be handy for home use as well as outdoors. I keep mine in a knife block and use it every day.
I'm not sure about that ferro rod notch, I see that it has not caused the blade to break but the spine works well on its own, particularly if you file it to 90 degrees as you have done. I also find that holding the knife still and pulling the ferro rod backward gives a better shower of sparks and directs them more accurately than pushing the knife forward.
The cuting edge is not good when new but I found that the steel is quality enough to get a really sharp edge, mine will shave hairs from your arm without problem. I used a 1200 water stone to get the initial sharpness and maintain it with a few strokes on a Lansky Turning Box ceramic rod set up at 20 degrees angle. Thanks again for the vid, I would say that the Old Hickory butcher knife is a good all rounder, excellent for dressing game, feather sticks, rough carving, de-barking - less good for batoning as the blade is just too thin.
Yeah the notch was a bad idea. As for a sheath, here's a leather one for about $10 or so th-cam.com/video/V-DJXKluRCw/w-d-xo.html
Thanks.
Looks like that knife will do just fine for getting the job done.. Great vid Sir !!
So far, so good. Thanks- Bryan
that is still my favorite knife and by far the most useful. Thanks for making these
Hard to go wrong
nice sheath, you can get a Kabar marine fighting knife sheath, on Amazon fits perfect , about $10-12.
Yep
I have the butcher knife version and the skinner version, and they really are pretty good knives over all. I plan on modifying my skinner into a Nessmuck style knife eventually. Good video!
I'll have to check out the skinner.
These are very good knifes for the money. I have 2 of them mine are very old one of them even survived a house fire. The only thing I would have done differently is I would take advantage of that Scandinavian grind on the blade and sharpened with the existing bevel on it.
Indeed
Hi Sir the old hickory is 1095high carbon steel
Thanks for that video. I was thinking exactly along those same lines. You've just convinced me. This is the very first comment I've ever made on TH-cam. Am now subscribed. Will be watching in the future.
Thanks Paul. I would skip the notch on the spine. it does just fine without it and it truthfully gets in my way.
It looks great to me. I wish I could make a sheath that good
Have you seen the Ontario Hop Knife? Looks almost the same, 7 inch HC steel but is around half the price up here in Canada through amazon? Wondering if it has a square edge for throwing sparks.
Now why did you have to go and tell me this? I had to order one...just to see. It was about $11. Thanks , I think ;-) - Bryan
Survival On Purpose
They are only $9 here and the Old Hickory is around $25. Been hitting the goodwill stores looking for a decent used one but have not found one.
I always check too but all I ever see is junk knives.
Hi, I just got a butcher knife Shapleign's hammer forget 1843-1930, I think it's amazing steel, I paid 25 in Kiwanis store.
With everyone doing a video of the Old Hickory the price will go through the roof. I just noticed there were over 30 videos on it. Amazon has them up at $24 now. Amazing how the 'survivalist' market can affect the price point. Still a good video Bryan. That beating test on that tree was a good one.
A J Taylor Hey AJ, they're still under $11 here: survivalonpurpose.com/Old-Hickory-7 But I have to say the last one I bought had a horrible edge on it. Still good steel and still a bargain but the edge was really bad.
I didn't know you had a store!! Got one through it. Thanks Bryan!!
I appreciate it AJ !!!
You ain't kidding! A few years ago I picked up one of the stainless steel swedish mess kits. Had the windscreen, burner, silverware, cup, fuel bottle and was practically brand new for $50. I went to look into getting another one a few months ago and they want $150 just for the pots with no windscreen, and beat to hell! Saw one that was like mine, with the same contents and roughly the same condition, and they wanted $260 for it. I say we stop doing videos on this stuff, and just spread the news by word of mouth or something, maybe the prices will stay reasonable. Lol.
That's how it always is
Brian, have you thought about using gun blue to create a patina, and make the blade more rust resistant ?? I understand that the old French Canadian fur trappers relied, pretty much entirely, on the old butcher knives as a general purpose bush craft, and butchering tool.
Amazon has replacement sheaths for the KaBar that will fit the Old Hickory Butcher Knife just right. They run around n$10. or so.
+Leo Lion Like this ;-) th-cam.com/video/V-DJXKluRCw/w-d-xo.html
How did you get the handle dark like that? Is it just from use, some type of wood stain or did you submerge the whole knife while doing the forced patina?
Be careful man, you're wearing red shirt, get back to the Enterprise quick. :)
OK, it took me a minute to get that one ;-)
Have had good results in forcing a patina, by using gun barrel cold blue. It will do as good a job on a knife blade as it does on a rifle, or shotgun barrel; requires a several applications, and a bit of time...Cheers.
I like how real you are. Good video
Real ? How do you know for sure I'm not a computer generated holographic image? Seriously, thanks.
Im really thinking about getting one of those knifes, and I wanna get a second one to make a little bushcraft one. Thanks for the vid.
You demonstrated that the knife couldn’t shave hair. Is this the nature of that particular steel, can it hold a good edge, or were you simply indicating that you hadn’t yet sharpened it as much as you’d like?
It will hold an edge, I just had not sharpened it enough.
i had rust on my knife so i used wet aluminum foyle it works great
Thanks for the interesting and informative video. I am going to keep my eyes open in resale shops for one of those.
When i first saw the semi circular notch on the spine of that knife I thought you had bought it in California and it had
been De-Milled. Haha. I liked the look of the DIY sheath......even though you said it looked like a sewed up cow's butt.
Hah! I appreciate it Bill.
You can buy the KaBar USMC sheath (Unmarked) for less then $10 on eBay. It’s a great fit. Awesome vid by the way.
Yep, I have a video on that somewhere in there
i have 2 Forgecraft Hi carbon blades can i do the same to them????
I don't see why not. They are carbon steel and are very similar to the Old Hickory. I don't know what kind of steel they are made of but I have a couple of old ones too. I just don't have a butcher knife blade, mine are thinner.
they look just like the blades you showed that is why i was asking the black striping and all they just don't say old hickory on them thank you for the information have a wonderful day
You too, Carla.
Say Heah Brian, I have a younger friend that was recently married and family on the way, so when he seem my Stromeng Leuku, He decided to modify a Olé Hickory the longest one and suprisingly it does give the Leuku A Run For THE mkney, It's not as good, but acceptable. People do alot of great things with their Olé Hick's, some make them into Kephart Style knives, some just leave them stock, and some just pimp them out to look nicer. They are reasonably priced and worst case senerio, you can use it in the kitchen. Kewl Beanz !!!
I use cling wrap wrapped around the blade with a thin layer of vaseline on the steel when I wet form/fit a sheath. Patina is key and from a $5 yard sale Mora to a $400 Ray Mears knife- it is just a tool and should be used and exposed to environment. Good video as usual.
I used olive oil and cling wrap but I guess the oil wasn't thick enough. I didn't want to use a petroleum product because I wanted to avoid possible future food contamination. Maybe I'll try Crisco next time. That stuff lasts forever.
great information as always my friend blessings Sir!!
+MrSIXGUNZ Thanks
I work at a National Park Service Historic Site. Over the years I have purchased a number of Old Hickory Knives. They seem to take an edge but the metal is too low carbon OR the temper is too soft and they go dull so fast it is frustrating. I finally threw them out.
but cheap and easy to sharpen
I don't mean to come across as rude or anything, but what is the obsession I've been seeing the last couple years with everyone trying to do axe work with knives? I've seen numerous videos on it and I simply don't get it. A knife is for cutting things. An axe is for splitting and chopping. I've seen some where they're reviewing a nessmuk for example, and complain about how they cant baton with its 4 inch blade. (a process I'd never heard of in 20 years of outdoor experience till recently) Well of course they can't. its a skinning and meat cutting blade by design. Could someone explain where the obsession on knives needing to be a scalpel, firestarter and axe all in one has come from to me please? I simply don't understand it.
shadowstalker130666 I understand what you mean. I never used a knife to baton wood either until a few years ago. I think the "obsession" started with the concept of the "one tool option" in case of a potential survival situation. This idea gained widespread attention with the increasing popularity of "survival TV" shows. The premise being that if you wound up with only what you had on your person, you would hopefully have your belt knife on your belt. Having a knife that can do multiple tasks would be a big benefit in those circumstances. So for of us who somehow fell into the knife review world,it is sort of expected to show that a blade is capable of doing all those different things. I will say that I have decided that it is often more convenient in the woods to carry a knife that is capable of light to medium chopping and other tasks. It lives on my belt and keeps my hands free until I need it, but I don't have to carry an axe or hatchet around for random chopping tasks. As for using the knife with a baton, I have found it a lot easier (and I think safer) to use a knife and baton instead of a hatchet for fire prep once the wood gets down to a certain size. Bottom line, I and many other folks just find it simpler and often more convenient to have a knife that does a lot of things well. Does that involve compromise? Of course, but I think it's worth it. Sorry for the long, rambling response. Thanks for watching and asking such a thought provoking question.
No need to apologize. I appreciate the informative explaination. I personally always have several cutting tools as well as my hawk on my person. I also learned how to compensate for not having an axe or hawk for splitting by whittling wedges with my pocket knife. and then using a rock or heavy piece of wood to drive it in to split the wood. Perhaps sometime when I can afford a camera I'll have to make a video showing how I do that. Have a great day, and stay safe out there.
Yep.
Yup, that's why I have a GFB small forest and a plump hatchet (only bring one depending on how much wood I'm gonna need to process.).
Not only is it less efficient, more dangerous and not good for the knife. It forces you to bring a giant mother of a sword instead of a sensible sized blade.
My mentality (and most people who actually spend lots of time in the woods, not just short hikes every now and then and bring their camera) is to buy something once. Maybe twice. I buy an expensive GFB once, I will give it to my grand kids, much like my grandfather gave me my plumb hatchet. You buy a tool for life, you treat it as well as you can, it doesn't fail, you're never screwed.
I have this same knife, you know what I did to it? Nothing. You know what I use it for? Cutting my meat and vegetables. Go figure.
What I'm saying is everything shadow says, plus: save up, buy something good, once. Don't beat on your stuff. If you know you're going to be processing wood, bring the right tools (axe, hatchet, saw), not a 30 year old butcher knife.
Harley Ross
I hear everything you guys are saying and I really agree with some of it.
However, I think you are missing a pretty big distinction between going in the woods and using tools you brought with you to do whatever you are doing and making a video to show the capabilities and or/limitations of a particular piece of gear. They are two different things and I think it is shortsighted to assume that because someone does something in a video made for the express purpose of testing and evaluating a tool, that that person thinks that is an ordinary and everyday use of the tool.
As I explained in my original reply to this thread, I rarely use a knife to baton wood, although I have fairly recently decided I prefer doing so for lighter processing of smaller wood. But I do think it's a decent way to test the potential durability of a knife. And, for better or worse, it has sort of become an expected part of a fixed blade knife review.
What I am continually at a loss to explain is why so many people feel the need to belittle and insult anyone who may have a different opinion about something. There are usually many ways to achieve the same result and it's results that count. Like a guy once told me about golf: they don't ask you how, just how many. The problem I have with folks like that is they can cause folks just starting out to just quit because they don't feel like they could ever measure up to someone else's "correct" way of doing things. Not to mention it's just plain bad manners.
If those type folks really cared about making sure folks were doing things the "right way", they could offer some positive suggestions about how to improve someone's technique or skills. But, if they would rather leave insulting and sarcastic comments, then I welcome them to do so here, instead of on some beginner's channel who may actually decide to give up because of it. Just one of the services I'm happy to provide.
hey bryan. I know this is something that you probably are aware of, but I found out the K Bar fighter knife sheath fits the Ol' Hickory perfectly. Has a snap on the leather and is about $13 on Amazon. Don't know if you have one in your store, but i am on my way to check. Great vid as always. I am getting another one and am going to bring it down to 5".
This one?th-cam.com/video/V-DJXKluRCw/w-d-xo.html And the store is pretty much unattended at this point. It just seemed to make more sense to link directly to either whatever item I am reviewing or to the Amazon home page. That allows the viewer to search Amazon for whatever they want and anything purchased during that session still helps me pay the bills. The "Amazon Store" interface is just a little clunky. It is not clear whether Prime works and it is not intuitive as to how to fins items I might not have listed in the store. Plus, it takes a lot of time to keep it updated. If you would like to support the channel (and I REALLY appreciate it), just use this link every time you want to buy something on Amazon: SurvivalOnPurpose.com/Amazon
Your woods are beautiful, makes me want to get out of the city.
What's the name you say at 7:38? "Schoshinski"?
a great knife I have two , its 1095 carbon steel, the same as a Mora knife.
It is a good knife for sure
Looks like a great throwing knife.
I think you would bang the handle loose in no time
Survival On Purpose have you thought of remaking the blade , would heating it in oil prevent rust as well as tempering it.
Harry Mason yes sir.
just to recap, I have good results using a stone to strike a fire rod, just break it open and use the busted side.
Why would I give a knife to an enemy, when the enemy is often me?
Nice review, I was really skeptical about the notch but when you batonned you also forced side pressure and it did not break. Although I am not a fan of notches, my Habilis SRT has one, I believe you still have a viable knife. Thanks for your time and family oriented videos. I actually let my daughter watch your channel without hesitation. Have a great day and be safe!
Just a suggestion, a good pair of leather gloves may save your hand should you have a knife break during testing.
I was a little concerned myself but it held.
shaving sharp may to sharp bryan , the edge could roll easy..i use a old school western ,and a sears and roebuck that don't shave..lol. but they are just as good as the expensive knifes..i like your style of thinking bryan...
..bill
I know, but there's just something about a real sharp knife...
I like a good bargain, and this seems to fit. Love the mods. Been playing around with that myself, using vinegar, lemons, and even bleach to force a patina on some carbon steel blades. Seems to wear off too easily though. any ideas?
I think it just helps protect the knife until it can age naturally.
As long as the notch in the blade has no square or sharp points it will not have any stress risers. A well rounded notch should be ok.
I am concerned about the handle slipping in my hand. Do you have any mod ideas for the handle?
+Helen Holden Maybe carve some grooves or use some sports wrap tape.
Brass heel nails,.an awl,Super Glue ,file and Sand paper it will be Beautiful.
great knife, looks like it's been with you awhile. nice sheath, thanks for sharing
It's only less than 6 months old but it does look old, doesn't it.
Black walnut hull is also good for a forcing a patina. Wear latex gloves though.
Thanks for watching.
Say Heah Brian, Did I mention, The 7" Old Hickories fit the Ka-Bar U. S. C. M. aafter market sheath's fit them pretty good, you can get them for around $7.00-$8.00.,,.
Yep, I did a video about that a while back
By the way, I got your comment about being blocked. I have no idea what you mean, but TH-cam has been acting strange lately.
Always used one chop branches prickly ash green wood cut right through. Old dead tree I'd not chop on
Is this the 7 inch or 10 inch blade model?
+Unlicensed Professional Opinion 7 inch
This video is a few years old. Has the knife held up?
So far. I don’t use it all the time. It has sort of become my camp kitchen knife because I have so many to test.
Mine will shave hair easily, and I did not need the useless notch. As far as the sheath goes, try dipping it into a 3 to 1 ratio of beeswax to paraffin and hot forming the knife. It will have great retention, and be impervious to the elements.
Yeah, the notch is pretty useless but I haven't figures out how to "un-notch" it. It doesn't seem to hurt the blade. Sometimes you try stuff to see how it works, I like the wax idea, I might try it.
Any time SOP thanks for the vid, knowledge is power and teaching is wise .
I make leather sheaths and what you did looks good. I thought maybe you bought it online.
Hah. You are too kind.
Well done as always!
Thanks or watching!
hi brian...great videos!! just add a chicago screw to your sheath,then you can adjust your retention tension. ..
Don
+Donald White goodbidea
I thought the Ontario Butcher knives were supposed to be made out of 1095, or were they, are the new generation knives are made out of 1075 ?
You are right. They are 1095. If I said 1075 it was a mistake.
Had an Old Hickory for many a year never had a problem with it
Yep
I like your thinking. Common man knife and common man alterations. I strongly believe in one item with multiple uses. Why carry three separate tools when you can carry one tool that performs three tasks. That's why knives and tomahawks are awesome. They are the original multitools.
I agree. I actuall just got a tomahawk, so look for an initial review soon.
Cool. I have two main hawks and several others that are for show. I've used hawks for not only chopping and cutting tools but also for use while climbing up slopes, ya can extend your reach to grab that tree just out of reach, using the handle without the head on to baton a knife into small bits of wood, using the whole hawk as a pot grabber for around the fire pit, I've even tried using the handle as a casting and reeling devide for fishing. And it worked. The uses are limitless
Russell Simmons
I actually used mine for something other than a test for the first time today. I trimmed some branches off a tree at my parents' house and uses the hawk to de-limb the branches after they were down. I was really pleased with how well it performed. Not as sharp as my Wetterlings, but way sharper than I expected.
Yea. Hawks are so useful. I carry one on my hip alongside my BHK Bushcrafter and a Mora #1. Always a good thing to have.
Could you make a review on the Sheffield rouge 10 inch knife please!! 20$ at Walmart!!
We'll see. I have a lot of stuff already in line to do.
I love these knives and have 2. If Ontario took the same blade profile/same steel, but made it just a bit thicker (1/8-3/16 of an inch), put 6 smaller brass pins, and rounded the handle- I'd pay $30 for it (if it included a sheath) and it would be in a category of its own (Vintage Frontiersman Bushcraft knife). Many of the old-style bushcraft knives are extremely expensive.
If they keep raising the price you'll have to put $30 for this one ;-).
'mornin, Bryan; Glad U made a sheath 4 the 'ole Hickory,She Deserves It.That 'ole gal should last a while.Thanks 4 Sharing With Us.Stay Safe Well & Warm,There.
Happy Trails From The Maritimes In Canada ATB Terry
" GOD BLESS "
She probably deserves a much better sheath than I made, but at least she's dressed now.
Always thought Old Hickory we’re made from 1095 steel?
#1if spine sparks Ferro for why bother with notch?? #2 just run another line of stitching down side.
I agree about #1. It was needless.
Enjoy watching your videos very informative!!!!!
+Justin Hinnant Thanks Justin
It can be made razor sharp, quickly and easily, otherwise good vid as usual.
Yes it can, because it is good steel. Thanks for watching. - Bryan
For your knife sheath use the old mountain man style sheath like I use , buck skinner style sheath. The belt you wear helps hold the knife in the sheath.. Crazy Crow out of Texas sells them . Crazy Crow Trading supplies all kinds of Native American & period supplies .
James Taylor Great idea. I alsp found a KaBar leather sheath on Amazon for $10 that fits perfectly.
Very good video, thanks for sharing. Thumbs up!~John
Thanks John.
Couldn't Agree More
If you would i for one could use some help on sheath making and would like to watch your video.
Thanks
+crazyhorse az I have an older 3 part sheath making video. It is pretty pathetic.
Just FYI: It fit's perfectly into a standard leather KA-BAR sheath.
Matthew Taheri Yes it does. I did a review of the sheath a while back. It works great.
K bar sheath works
Very good, Thank you very much
they make a 14 inch model that makes a fairly decent machete that can be picked up for 15 dollars
Hyde 506 on Amazon.
it's 1095 high carbon steel
+david kowalkowski yes it is
When he is batoning the tree you can see the knife bending
But not breaking
I put gun blue. ..and after oil
If you are using it for food prep that mighgt not be a good idea
looks good.
Thanks. I appreciate it.
Nice mods bud..!!! Im really diggen the old hickory knives - im on a serious search for more old ones or maybe I will buy a couple new ones... Appreciate the link to my channel and vids bro..:)
I keep looking for old ones. So far no luck.
Survival On Purpose Thanks bud - Im really thinking about getting into knife making on a serious level after I get some more under my belt and tested in real world conditions...
the slot throws more precise sparks
Not that I can tell
You should get a Svord Peasant and do a review on it. I have one and I have to say it has become one of my favorite knives. It's a bit of an ugly duckling, but it is a great little knife. The design is very old school that allows easy one handed opening. If you have never had one or seen one I highly recommend getting one.
I will add that to my list of stuff to check out. My very long list ;-)
it is 1095 thanks for the great video
Awesome 👌
I bought 2. One I use as an actual butchers knife breaking down bulk meat for the freezer and it's saved my more expensive kitchen cleavers and chefs knives from abuse. The second I I packed away oiled for a bad day I hope never happens.
K N sounds like a good plan.
The replacement sheath for a Kabar U.S.M.C. Knife will fit the 7 inch Old Hickory & they aren't that expensive.
You look like ur wearing a Star Trek costume
Live long and prosper
LOL! Was about to say the Trekkie Outdoorsman!
sms have really good leather sheaths for 8 dollars I've got one I did a keaphart mod on
The whole idea of bushcraft/survivalism is the ability to do for yourself.. Now, in peaceful times, you can buy anything. In troubled times, those who survive will be those who are able to produce what they need. The stores will be long gone.