Definitely consider the voyager. Gave my dad a clip point voyager about 6yrs ago. Not a rancher, but a Texan. He uses his for everything from steak, to mechanic work, and everything else I can think of. And he loves it. I've given him others, but nothing has replaced the voyager.
Love my Voyager XL EDC everyday love they are tough. I abuse mine every day at my work. I work at a garage company as a dieseal mechanic baton wood tri ad lock is so tough can't go wrong.
I’ve got almost every version of the Voyager XL. I still need to get the drop point. I do construction type work and use my knife a lot. My suggestion would be the clip point or the drop point. They are quicker to sharpen. The Tanto Voyager, the Vaquero and Kriss are a bit more difficult to sharpen. The clip and drop are also better at a multitude of jobs. The drop will likely have a stronger tip than the clip. But the clip is better for doing tiny pokey, stabby type jobs since you can wiggle that clip point into tighter areas. Just my two cents worth.
Ive been using a spyderco endura for 25 years, for farming. Its thin you dont end up with a bruised leg. I paid $15 in a consignment chest. The gen1 and gen2. I check electric fences almost daily
That absolutely helped! Not just with my question, but also I can't seem to stop grinning. I asked the family to sit and watch this aq with me and we were all stoked. Then I asked we do it again a few more times and my wife promptly denied my requests. Thank you for your time brother sir!! You made my day!
I have the K-tac and it's a beast, I love it! But you wouldn't use the tip for a fire steel like DCA says here. You would use the part closer to the handle because it's much easier and the angle on the spine is sharp enough for a ferro rod.
My ColdSteel Voyager XL just came in a few days ago and I giggled like a school girl for a solid 15 minutes delimbing a small tree behind my house. I got it for just over 60 bucks on sale (Thank you KnifeCenter!) and the value level is bar none. I finally understand the love that people have for ColdSteel.
Big facts. I love my XL kris voyager, but it's far from my favourite cold steel though! If you're a fan of self defense knives or karambit, check out their drop forged battle ring.
Think the beanie guys are gone now, just Kurt and Dallas now. They make a good combo, better than the previous dude, though I admit that that channel has gone quite down hill in recent times. Same with DBK, used to love them until they turned into a money machine with just Patreon adds and sponsors that don’t make sense, like videogames. But that might be just me.
For outdoor work, it really depends on where you are. I took a survival class in South Florida a few years back from a former USAF instructor (Vietnam era). He and everyone else in the class had 2 knives: a Kukri & a Mora. In scrubby-swampy land, that tandem excelled at all tasks. All I brought was my Victorinox Soldier 08. I did have everyone asking to borrow the saw though.
I confess I am a novice to Knives. So for me your videos are educational and I am appreciate your guidance and opinions for all the variables, from fixed to auto... I look forward to every video. And thanks for maintenance tips.
I used to work for a big outdoors store chain and we had to put the price tag directly on the blade of the knives. The best way I found to get it off was a little cheap gun oil and a microfiber towel. The cheap bottles of oil were easy enough to write off as store use without anyone getting mad and we were required to have a microfiber towel on us as part of our uniform. Now days I carry a couple of hanks with me at all times, one super soft and fine for my glasses and one for cleaning my knife off during the day.
Another little reason for the Leek: the tip-lock. My knife is usually in my bag, not clipped to my pocket, and the last thing I want is something knocking it open in there. The tip-lock slider keeps it securely closed until I want to use it. I do have a couple other knives in the same size range, but the Leek happily lives in my bag because of that lock.
I still have my Voyager XL I bought new about the year 2000, I think it's AUS8.It still works great, I still love it like the first day I bought it congrats guys on a great purchase!
Well love all your videos, would love to see more options on EDC fixed blades. Spear point or drop point are my preferred blade shape. Flat or thin convex grind, or maybe a thinner scandi grind blade.
My most used EDC knife this year has been an XHP Boker Kalashnikov. I've used this thing for all sorts of stuff from boxes and envelopes to cloth to various cordage to whittling, and it just refuses to dull or rust.
I have a six inch blade of 51/60 carbon steel with a hand guard and wooden grips issued to the Gurkhas for Afghanistan, It works fantastically for both bushcraft or survival but there is a bit of a learning curve because of the shape and different balance compared to many knives
I loved last episode where you went past your first reaction and I think that would be a good format where you give us our first reaction and then one that is a bit more obscure
I use 3 and 1 oil for removing tape residue. Works pretty well and it's pretty cheap. It can be used for all kinds of things too. It's good to have around.
I have a brand new 8 inch Khukuri, and its set up for Bush craft. But can do lots of heavy chopping and splitting. Plus the one I bought from Nepal, even with shipping cost about 100 dollars.
If memory serves me correctly, Iron Man would not be able to own/carry the Microtech Combat Troodon. He “lives” in CA, and the Combat Troodon is not a CA legal knife.
Buck I believed made an honest to goodness ranch hand folder. This involved the 110 pattern (of course) which came with a second blade that was hoof pick/ trimmer. I may be mistaken (getting old) but, I know for sure there is a version by someone if not Buck is out there.
One good thing about a "genuine kukri" which I believe is made by Windlass Steelcrafts is it comes with the accessory knives so you can use them for finer work.
Lc 200n can rust a little bit. Swam with an atlantic lc200n model in a middeterranian sea, not washed it after, got a few tiny rust spots. In my opinion it holds an edge lot better than h1 and its worth it.
My workplace is cleaning and sanitizing everything religiously. I find that 1 part ammonia to 20 parts water, with a microfiber suede cloth designed to clean stainless steels, cleans blades easy-peasy.
Great questions. Great answers. Great information. I love my k -tac I got from KNIFECENTER. The kbar is on the list. Cant go wrong with a boker. American lawmen I have to write that down. Shout out to cold steel. Great products and great service like knife center. The leek is cool the blue is nice. It has a lock on it aswell. Have a good day to all. Tis the season.
Love your series, DCA and Thomas! Please keep it up! Thanks! Question: What's the big difference between a Canadian belt knife versus your preferred Nessmuk style knives? What are the pros and cons of each design? What are your recommendations of each? Thanks!
An alternative to the kukri might be the boker plus mini tracker(or just a tracker as many versions and sizes exist). Compact but designed to chop and whittle with some decent precision and much easier to handle than a larger kukri with less risks. The point of a tracker knife is to combine the chopping power of a hatchet or tomahawk at the head while allowing for finer wood working with the lower half. The transitional "notch" on the blade is meant for gutting fish and game while the spine is sometimes equipped with a bit of "serrations" that are more for notching than proper sawing, useful for creating small notches to run string or cord through for either a shelter or setting up a cooking rig. Can be a pain to sharpen sometimes if you dont know how and get one with a hard to sharpen steel but an awesome knife once you understand its anatomy and purpose, not a fighter at all though with that much mass at the broadhead it could easily chop through most things with ease, more compact than a kukri too and its a knife style born in the US by the same guy who founded both the US school of Tracking and a little known company called "TOPS Knives" which you may have heard of. The Tracker is one of those knives that has many who love it and many who hate it, those who hate it often(but not always) have no clue what each part of the blade is designed for, or they got some cheap off brand that was all show and no quality which there are plenty. If you want an original then good news, TOPS still makes the original as well as a few other sizes and shapes of it, most if not all can be purchased on Knifecenter. I personally have a JEO TEC which is Spanish steel, very cool but someday I intend to get an original Tom Brown Tracker.. probably after the Longhorn... which is worth a look given its forward recurve and mass(1/4 in thick steel) it should be able to do any relatively small chopping you need very easily and it looks damn fine too.
I used a 4" tanto voyager on a cattle farm for over a year and it worked awesome. Aus10 is better for me than something like s35VN because it handles more abuse. I sent the voyager through several cow, moose and deer spines, butchered entire animals with it, cut wires, twine, used it as a prybar and screwdriver, literally everything I needed to use it for. It was an awesome farm knife and hunting knife. I've had 1 chip in 4 years with my aus10 blades and about 20 in the past 4 months with my s35vn blades under the same situations. That's my experience though and yours may differ. Heat treat and temper, geometry of the tip amd edge, it all makes a difference but a voyager is awesome aside from garbage handle material
So, im a LEO and have been in the market for a belt mounted defensive foxed blade. Unfortunately none of the sheaths have active locking retention in case someone grabs them. What are some small (2-4 in blade) fixed blades with locking sheaths?
thank you Dave the information you gave on the kukri knife was so great because I love the one you shown that knife also didn't have a black covered blade I'm kind of sick of those it's a man or woman can oil their blade once in awhile they shouldn't have a knife my opinion only but I almost made a big mistake and bought a wonderblading one and I would have been so wrong I use the friends kukri and it felt weird kind of so I got the shorter one and it is so much better thank you you are a great man in my book and I'm with using a wheelie at the moment so swinging the shorter blade is so much easier and perfect for my uses thank you again sincerely Wild Bill
My EDC is an El cheapo bought at WallyWorld for $35 few yrs ago. About 2-3/4 in.blade. holds edge in so-so manner. Best of all, pocket clip keeps it available. Now, IMO, best hunting/camp knife ever is a 5" Canadian Camp knife. Alternative EDC would be a multi-tool like Gerber, Leatherman or ColdSteel and such make. Problem is most Don't have the drill or awl as one of foldout tools
I looking to give my Brother in Law a knife for Christmas. He is a welder by trade and a Harley man. I am thinking along the lines of a stockman style folder. What would you suggest? Case or Buck or some other manufacturer?
apart from italians and boker, what are some good europian folding knife manufacturers? I know lot of them in traditional world but not many in the modern knife scene
If you’re cleaning a bunch of knives a menda bottle with 95% IPA and 2” cotton patches (Shabazz rec) is really great place to start. The patches are better and more convenient than paper towels.
Hey DCA, can you sing the praises of the Kabar Warthog fixed blade? I've been using one for a while now, and it out performs bigger knives made with better materials. thanks.
Can you explain the difference between a large knife and a machete, where do they crossover in usage, and what one blade choice would you recommend that would serve for the different purposes.
As a truck driver the Voyager Drop Point and the 4MAX SCOUT are My go-2 pocket knives reliable that MONSTER TRIAD LOCK other then that still throwdown with the Onterio RAT-1 ☝️‼️
Hey David, the Ka-Bar Combat is great, but I’ve tried both models they sell and the KA1249 Kukri Machete with birds head handle is just way more comfortable and better for heavy chopping. It has an 11.5” blade as opposed to the Combat Kukri’s 8”, and handles more like a traditional kukri. The Combat model you chose would probably make a better camp knife, and has the Ka-bar fighting knife striker pommel, but isn’t going to compete with the Condor nearly as well. I have a couple hundred Kukris in my collection (down from 2x that many years ago 😵💫), and the Ka-bar machete probably has the most comfortable handle of any of them. It’s sole weakness is a non-convexed edge that can stick in the work, but that’s easily fixed. Thanks for the interesting review. P.S. Similar to the Kwaiken Air, you reviewed and I bought the Boker + Kansei Matsuno Nori Flipper Knife, which is a higher end CEO, also VG10. Very classy and the perfect low profile office EDC.
I’ve been wanting a Kukri forever, but can never decide on one because I don’t know what to look for and don’t want a piece of junk. In your opinion, which one is the best looking/performing with a wooden handle? I really don’t have a specific need to fill, but am looking for a traditional or a modern updated interpretation of traditional looking Kukri that’s fully functional rather than a display item... a good cutter I could fantasize traipsing through the jungle with. Thanks.
@@BloodGrooveKnives For a modern Kukri the Condor shown is a good deal and a safe bet. Unfortunately links here or refs to other web sites aren’t coming through, but do a search for British Army Service or British Army Issue, and look at the models and related designs that come up. Most BSA’s will have a Buffalo horn handle, but then you can review similar designs that have wood handles.
Is there any way you could do a video on combo edge knives? I'm a mechanic and Search & Rescue/disaster relief volunteer and having the partially serrated edge gives me a serious advantage when I'm cutting through tougher material in the shop or in the field. I know there are a bunch of options out there but they are a pain to find. Currently I carry a Gerber Gator I have had for years and have routinely cut everything with it from coolant hoses to carpet and card board. I think I'm due for an upgrade!
I’m looking for a fixed blade full tang/ exposed tang that’s between 5.5 and 7 inches long and 0.16 inch thickness or less in a good carbon steel capable of holding an edge. Seems like most “survival” knives these days are sharpened prybars (cough cough…. Becker BK2). Cheers!
The example DCA gave of black on Lc200n blade from 9 months in a river seems more like a case of surface deposits from mineral water in a stream than real corrosion. Was there any pitting?
When I hear the word "kukri", for me there is only one, Cold Steel Gurkha Kukri. With its' 12" blade & 5/16" thick full flat grind, it sinks deeper in wood than any other belt carry knife that I own or have tried, & I've been collecting for decades. My first one was in "Carbon V" steel & I love it so much that I had to spend considerably more money to add the higher grade stainless steel to my collection. Whether splitting, chopping, batoning or feather stick making, it excels. The weight is acceptable for its' versatility.
Hello, I love big knives, thick blades, big handles, etc. one that comes to mind is the Medford Praetorian. However it is severely out of my budget. Can you suggest a couple alternatives that are sub 200$ that are of a similar style? Thanks
Hi DCA. When I trek and camp, I use a big blade (axe or chopper) for wood prep and an opinel for food prep as well as striking my ferro rod. I would love a one-hand opening system knife that is also light and inexpensive as well as slicy. Is the dozier the answer? If yes, is the coating on the d2 version a problem for a crisp 90 degrees spine? Thanks
Hey DCA. I have a question about choosing my next knife, and I'd like to look at alternative brands. I have been a big Kershaw fan for many years. There is something about Kershaw knifes that just speaks to me. I own two different CQC's, a Launch 13, my sons Boy Scout knife is a Dividend, and even a Nacho bottle opener. I've looked at knives from other brands but very little appeals to me under $150. Using $150 as the budget, and knowing the style of knives that I own, what alternative brands and models should I look at for a future purchase.
Love the show guys, but could you pull back the camera a little so we can see the full length of the knives on the table? I like to pick out those I like before you cover them but only ever get to see two thirds of the knife. Many thanks.
Hey DCA - you are responsible for me becoming interested in the knife universe...thanks for that (I guess ;)) - recently I saw a video where you talked about budget camp chef knives (and briefly mentioned your own brand) - I would be super interested in a more in-depth coverage of that category of knives...thanks in advance!
Hey DCA, I'm looking for a fixed blade for cleaning ducks and walleye. Currently use a bubba blade but it's a tad too big but when I look at bird and trout blades they seem a tad to small for me. Looking for that happy medium and possibly something I could daily carry as well, pocket sheath or scout carry. Thanks!
I acquired a couple of vintage camp knives that are full flat grind, but only have an edge bevel on the palm side of the blade for a right-handed grip. The “show side” of the blade has a zero edge bevel surface. This makes them kind of a Scandi-Chisel-Full flat grind, excellent for carving wood. Are there any modern makers using this kind of grind?
I didn't watch the whole vid.but one of the best KUKRI BUSHERS i have used is the TOPS DART in 5160 spring steel it is one of my all-time faves for BUSHING and MAJOR hacking and an excellent chopper.. I wouldn't use a COLD STEEL on any hardwoods.. I used one of my SPARTANS and the blade actually had little bends on the BLADE!! Steel is 2 SOFT for HEAVY chopping. The Demko lock is FANTASTIC but the AUS-10 is 2 soft .just a personal perspective from a Woodsman.. The TOPS CUMA 2.0 is an EXCELLENT Semi-kukri smatchet, axe. Self-defense BLADE AWESOME BLADE.. DART TOPS or CUMA 2.0 TOPS are my choices when I'm in the woods..
Thank you for the entertainment and the knowledge. Was wondering what would be the best steel for wood carving and/or the best knife to do that? Dad is looking for one or a set that will do that. Thank you again.
Since wood carving involves a lot of push cuts, the best steels are ones with fine grain structures that can take high polished edges easily... think simple carbon steels like 1075, 1095, O1... or stainless stuff like 12C27 et al. Yes other steels will work just fine, but these are some of the best options imo -DCA
Can you name a manual opening lock that can be both closed without getting your hands on the blade path and without the blade bouncing back no matter the force you apply? (unlike the axis lock or the compression lock) So far i have only found that the hawk lock with the toogle detent, the SLS and the shark lock (sort of) can do this... are there any others?
Hey DCA, iam looking for a strong Bushcraft Folder. Which Knives you Would recommend. For carving, maybe Lite Batoning, feathersticking etc. Scandi Would be nice. For Foodprep, maybe a flatgrind. What knives would you recomment their for too. Which Steel? And what Would your Favorite Grind? Clip is ok, But a Sheat would be nice too. Best wishes
Hey DCA! Great content as always! One for your faq, I’m looking for a MASSIVE clever style blade, folder, thumb studs or flipper that I can use to do everything from light branches, disobedient children and opening boxes. Thanks and keep up the great work!
Hello Dave I have a Benchmade 9400 Osborn Auto. But need to tighten the pivot screw very often because of blade play. What to do? Locktite? And what kind of Locktite. Best wishes from Poul Christensen 🇩🇰
I'm looking for a folding knife that makes the "fuller" work in the same role as a thumb stud or thumb hole. When I'm looking for it, I see a blade with a very sharp groove edge, with the "fuller" cut off in the middle. Isn't this sharp part dangerous? Also, make sure that you can sort by "fuller" in the knife center shop.
LC200N and H1 are very corrosion resistant by blade steel standards but it is not particulary corrosion resistant compared to materials designed for continuous sea water exposure like superduplex steels or inconel. But those dont work as a blades.
Howdy DCA! With the holidays coming up I'd like to get my brother something slightly more upscale as an alternative to his CRKT M16-10KSF daily carry - its one of his favorite knives for its size and carry, but the chisel grind and biased liner-lock aren't quite perfect for his needs. He is a leftie so reversible pocket clips and an ambidextrous locks are preferred. Also hoping for an upgraded blade steel over 8Cr as he cuts a lot of boxes so edge retention is a selling point. Do you have any interesting suggestions for a slim folder with these features that I might be overlooking (i.e. not a Benchmade or SpyderCo)?
I'm a software systems engineer but a backwoods boy as well... Love technology but my heart belongs to the outdoors.. love earth tones.. Ex military but not into carrying around my old Yarborough Knife, lol.. Anyways, any ideas on a fixed blade and a folder combo🤔🤔. Ty for all the videos btw.. 😎👍
Man can’t believe you answered my question! Will definitely check out a voyager and update you on my thoughts of its performance thank you so much
Definitely consider the voyager. Gave my dad a clip point voyager about 6yrs ago. Not a rancher, but a Texan. He uses his for everything from steak, to mechanic work, and everything else I can think of. And he loves it. I've given him others, but nothing has replaced the voyager.
Love my Voyager XL EDC everyday love they are tough. I abuse mine every day at my work. I work at a garage company as a dieseal mechanic baton wood tri ad lock is so tough can't go wrong.
I’ve got almost every version of the Voyager XL. I still need to get the drop point. I do construction type work and use my knife a lot. My suggestion would be the clip point or the drop point. They are quicker to sharpen. The Tanto Voyager, the Vaquero and Kriss are a bit more difficult to sharpen. The clip and drop are also better at a multitude of jobs. The drop will likely have a stronger tip than the clip. But the clip is better for doing tiny pokey, stabby type jobs since you can wiggle that clip point into tighter areas. Just my two cents worth.
Ive been using a spyderco endura for 25 years, for farming. Its thin you dont end up with a bruised leg. I paid $15 in a consignment chest. The gen1 and gen2. I check electric fences almost daily
Hope he picks my question.. Probably won't be able to find a good fix for me.. Good luck with your new ranch knife😎👍
That absolutely helped! Not just with my question, but also I can't seem to stop grinning. I asked the family to sit and watch this aq with me and we were all stoked. Then I asked we do it again a few more times and my wife promptly denied my requests. Thank you for your time brother sir!! You made my day!
I have the K-tac and it's a beast, I love it! But you wouldn't use the tip for a fire steel like DCA says here. You would use the part closer to the handle because it's much easier and the angle on the spine is sharp enough for a ferro rod.
My ColdSteel Voyager XL just came in a few days ago and I giggled like a school girl for a solid 15 minutes delimbing a small tree behind my house. I got it for just over 60 bucks on sale (Thank you KnifeCenter!) and the value level is bar none. I finally understand the love that people have for ColdSteel.
Big facts. I love my XL kris voyager, but it's far from my favourite cold steel though! If you're a fan of self defense knives or karambit, check out their drop forged battle ring.
I got mine a few days ago too, the drop point one. It’s so awesome I had to order the clip point too
Sounds just like my experience lol. They ARE as tough as they say.
Congratulations on the addition DCA
Seth did a great job filling your larger than average hands but it's great having you back
I bet he did, Josh. I bet he did...lol
I hope KnifeCenter is paying DCA a mint. I can't handle the beanie wearing hipster boys at the "HQ". Thanks for the great content DCA and KnifeCenter!
Me too
Think the beanie guys are gone now, just Kurt and Dallas now. They make a good combo, better than the previous dude, though I admit that that channel has gone quite down hill in recent times. Same with DBK, used to love them until they turned into a money machine with just Patreon adds and sponsors that don’t make sense, like videogames. But that might be just me.
For outdoor work, it really depends on where you are. I took a survival class in South Florida a few years back from a former USAF instructor (Vietnam era). He and everyone else in the class had 2 knives: a Kukri & a Mora. In scrubby-swampy land, that tandem excelled at all tasks. All I brought was my Victorinox Soldier 08. I did have everyone asking to borrow the saw though.
I confess I am a novice to Knives. So for me your videos are educational and I am appreciate your guidance and opinions for all the variables, from fixed to auto... I look forward to every video. And thanks for maintenance tips.
I used to work for a big outdoors store chain and we had to put the price tag directly on the blade of the knives. The best way I found to get it off was a little cheap gun oil and a microfiber towel. The cheap bottles of oil were easy enough to write off as store use without anyone getting mad and we were required to have a microfiber towel on us as part of our uniform. Now days I carry a couple of hanks with me at all times, one super soft and fine for my glasses and one for cleaning my knife off during the day.
Yup, a mild gun cleaner with a rag takes tape glue right off and leaves the blade looking nice.
That condor kukri is my bushcraft alongside a bushlore
man, the K-tac kukri is a helluva bush blade, been carrying mine for a while now. i absolutely swear by it
I've been looking at the combat kukri for this reason and I love the answer this video gave me so I'm sold on that knofe
Do you guys have a Nesmuck series or can you show all the Nesmucks there are available atm? Would be great 😊
+1 on that!
Another little reason for the Leek: the tip-lock. My knife is usually in my bag, not clipped to my pocket, and the last thing I want is something knocking it open in there. The tip-lock slider keeps it securely closed until I want to use it. I do have a couple other knives in the same size range, but the Leek happily lives in my bag because of that lock.
I still have my Voyager XL I bought new about the year 2000, I think it's AUS8.It still works great, I still love it like the first day I bought it congrats guys on a great purchase!
😊👋🏻🇺🇸... Hi, David nice to listen to you. As usual you are perfect with your descriptions. Greetings from Milan, Italy 🇮🇹🤙🏻🖖🏻🙃
Well love all your videos, would love to see more options on EDC fixed blades. Spear point or drop point are my preferred blade shape. Flat or thin convex grind, or maybe a thinner scandi grind blade.
Check out the newish condor survival pukko, or the condor bushcraft bliss
Both pretty classy looking blades with scandi grind for under 100
DCA, I'm glad you said hand sanitizer rather than nail polish remover 😎
I could be wrong but I’ve always heard XHP has better edge retention than S35vn but XHP is harder to get ahold of.
My most used EDC knife this year has been an XHP Boker Kalashnikov. I've used this thing for all sorts of stuff from boxes and envelopes to cloth to various cordage to whittling, and it just refuses to dull or rust.
My late bro in law gave me a kabar combat kukri for Christmas years ago! Love that blade!
I have a six inch blade of 51/60 carbon steel with a hand guard and wooden grips issued to the Gurkhas for Afghanistan, It works fantastically for both bushcraft or survival but there is a bit of a learning curve because of the shape and different balance compared to many knives
My favorite outdoorsy lock blade is my Gerber Gator in 154CM. It's super comfortable, grippy and fits my hand perfectly.
Can you compare the Spyderco stretch 2 and endela in k390? Definately interested in one of these two
I loved last episode where you went past your first reaction and I think that would be a good format where you give us our first reaction and then one that is a bit more obscure
The intro is a true masterpiece
I’ve got the Smith and Wesson kukhri and it’s awesome, not too long, nice and thick. Chops, works great for any camp stuff I’ve ever tried.
As a former F-16 maintenance technician I I confirm the reference and was (positively) surprised by the use of said reference
I use 3 and 1 oil for removing tape residue. Works pretty well and it's pretty cheap. It can be used for all kinds of things too. It's good to have around.
The xl vaquero (with snaggletooth opener) is my absolute favorite EDC folder I've ever owned. It's just f*cling awesome
I have a brand new 8 inch Khukuri, and its set up for Bush craft. But can do lots of heavy chopping and splitting. Plus the one I bought from Nepal, even with shipping cost about 100 dollars.
If memory serves me correctly, Iron Man would not be able to own/carry the Microtech Combat Troodon. He “lives” in CA, and the Combat Troodon is not a CA legal knife.
He's not a knife guy anyway...
He's supposed to be a billionaire isn't he, so the law wouldn't apply to him. 🙃
@@TheSpoovy hahaha, true
Buck I believed made an honest to goodness ranch hand folder. This involved the 110 pattern (of course) which came with a second blade that was hoof pick/ trimmer. I may be mistaken (getting old) but, I know for sure there is a version by someone if not Buck is out there.
Maybe a puma master, i use it farm phils
One good thing about a "genuine kukri" which I believe is made by Windlass Steelcrafts is it comes with the accessory knives so you can use them for finer work.
Lc 200n can rust a little bit. Swam with an atlantic lc200n model in a middeterranian sea, not washed it after, got a few tiny rust spots. In my opinion it holds an edge lot better than h1 and its worth it.
Whatever happened to the MERCADOR K-55 folding knives, Used them all the time in the sixties before i joined the Army?
My workplace is cleaning and sanitizing everything religiously. I find that 1 part ammonia to 20 parts water, with a microfiber suede cloth designed to clean stainless steels, cleans blades easy-peasy.
Traditional Kukri knives come as a pair or set of three which are used for smaller tasks, food prep, whittling etc
Heck yeah cold steel Voyager XL EDC love have not broken the lock yet but did break the blade but not the lock love the serated XL Voyager tanto
Great questions. Great answers. Great information. I love my k -tac I got from KNIFECENTER. The kbar is on the list. Cant go wrong with a boker. American lawmen I have to write that down. Shout out to cold steel. Great products and great service like knife center. The leek is cool the blue is nice. It has a lock on it aswell. Have a good day to all. Tis the season.
What would be a good budget Bradford guardian three in your opinion?
Alan Kay stepped up to the Tops Knives bushcrafter Kukuri lately
Love your series, DCA and Thomas! Please keep it up! Thanks!
Question: What's the big difference between a Canadian belt knife versus your preferred Nessmuk style knives? What are the pros and cons of each design? What are your recommendations of each? Thanks!
Lol was knife browsing kukri knifes last night . I've used lionsteel fixed blades for all my hunting/solo camp-hiking Etc ... Good video
Loved The K-bar Kukri.
Hi David, I’m a woodworker who prefers using hand tools. Any recommendations on a folder that can be used as a marking knife for layout? Thanks!
Seconding this!
An alternative to the kukri might be the boker plus mini tracker(or just a tracker as many versions and sizes exist). Compact but designed to chop and whittle with some decent precision and much easier to handle than a larger kukri with less risks.
The point of a tracker knife is to combine the chopping power of a hatchet or tomahawk at the head while allowing for finer wood working with the lower half. The transitional "notch" on the blade is meant for gutting fish and game while the spine is sometimes equipped with a bit of "serrations" that are more for notching than proper sawing, useful for creating small notches to run string or cord through for either a shelter or setting up a cooking rig.
Can be a pain to sharpen sometimes if you dont know how and get one with a hard to sharpen steel but an awesome knife once you understand its anatomy and purpose, not a fighter at all though with that much mass at the broadhead it could easily chop through most things with ease, more compact than a kukri too and its a knife style born in the US by the same guy who founded both the US school of Tracking and a little known company called "TOPS Knives" which you may have heard of. The Tracker is one of those knives that has many who love it and many who hate it, those who hate it often(but not always) have no clue what each part of the blade is designed for, or they got some cheap off brand that was all show and no quality which there are plenty. If you want an original then good news, TOPS still makes the original as well as a few other sizes and shapes of it, most if not all can be purchased on Knifecenter. I personally have a JEO TEC which is Spanish steel, very cool but someday I intend to get an original Tom Brown Tracker.. probably after the Longhorn... which is worth a look given its forward recurve and mass(1/4 in thick steel) it should be able to do any relatively small chopping you need very easily and it looks damn fine too.
I used to use zippo lighter fluid to clean my knives when I worked in a mailroom. It would eat right through tape residue.
I always carry some alcohol swabs with me (in case of cuts, they work as hand sanitizer, etc) and they are great for cleaning gunk off your knife.
What about the American lawman with steel liners its awesome I have that and a cts xhp version from my favorite edc
On you’re kukris, pleasantly surprised you didn’t show the one made by kershaw, a very capable blade and one that I use on a daily basis!
I used a 4" tanto voyager on a cattle farm for over a year and it worked awesome. Aus10 is better for me than something like s35VN because it handles more abuse. I sent the voyager through several cow, moose and deer spines, butchered entire animals with it, cut wires, twine, used it as a prybar and screwdriver, literally everything I needed to use it for. It was an awesome farm knife and hunting knife.
I've had 1 chip in 4 years with my aus10 blades and about 20 in the past 4 months with my s35vn blades under the same situations. That's my experience though and yours may differ. Heat treat and temper, geometry of the tip amd edge, it all makes a difference but a voyager is awesome aside from garbage handle material
I have a coldsteel ghurka kukri , its a thick hunk off of steel that cuts like crazy .
So, im a LEO and have been in the market for a belt mounted defensive foxed blade. Unfortunately none of the sheaths have active locking retention in case someone grabs them. What are some small (2-4 in blade) fixed blades with locking sheaths?
thank you Dave the information you gave on the kukri knife was so great because I love the one you shown that knife also didn't have a black covered blade I'm kind of sick of those it's a man or woman can oil their blade once in awhile they shouldn't have a knife my opinion only but I almost made a big mistake and bought a wonderblading one and I would have been so wrong I use the friends kukri and it felt weird kind of so I got the shorter one and it is so much better thank you you are a great man in my book and I'm with using a wheelie at the moment so swinging the shorter blade is so much easier and perfect for my uses thank you again sincerely Wild Bill
What about the Jason Knight design
My EDC is an El cheapo bought at WallyWorld for $35 few yrs ago. About 2-3/4 in.blade. holds edge in so-so manner. Best of all, pocket clip keeps it available. Now, IMO, best hunting/camp knife ever is a 5" Canadian Camp knife. Alternative EDC would be a multi-tool like Gerber, Leatherman or ColdSteel and such make. Problem is most Don't have the drill or awl as one of foldout tools
I looking to give my Brother in Law a knife for Christmas. He is a welder by trade and a Harley man. I am thinking along the lines of a stockman style folder. What would you suggest? Case or Buck or some other manufacturer?
apart from italians and boker, what are some good europian folding knife manufacturers? I know lot of them in traditional world but not many in the modern knife scene
Nice to see you again DCA, do you usually see and use knives in your dreams ( or nightmares)?.
For every single one of those, I'd recommend either the buck 120 or the 124
If you’re cleaning a bunch of knives a menda bottle with 95% IPA and 2” cotton patches (Shabazz rec) is really great place to start. The patches are better and more convenient than paper towels.
Hey DCA, can you sing the praises of the Kabar Warthog fixed blade? I've been using one for a while now, and it out performs bigger knives made with better materials. thanks.
Can you explain the difference between a large knife and a machete, where do they crossover in usage, and what one blade choice would you recommend that would serve for the different purposes.
Great show!
DCA: *opens with Cold Steel Voyagers*
ME: *gets snacks and settles into couch*
For sticky gunk on a blade I’ve found that Hoppes #9 gun cleaner works the best👍🏻
Thanks for the info on two of my favourite knives! 👍🏻
What would you recommend for chopping up large chunks of frozen crab bait?
As a truck driver the Voyager Drop Point and the 4MAX SCOUT are My go-2 pocket knives reliable that MONSTER TRIAD LOCK other then that still throwdown with the Onterio RAT-1 ☝️‼️
Hey David, the Ka-Bar Combat is great, but I’ve tried both models they sell and the KA1249 Kukri Machete with birds head handle is just way more comfortable and better for heavy chopping. It has an 11.5” blade as opposed to the Combat Kukri’s 8”, and handles more like a traditional kukri. The Combat model you chose would probably make a better camp knife, and has the Ka-bar fighting knife striker pommel, but isn’t going to compete with the Condor nearly as well. I have a couple hundred Kukris in my collection (down from 2x that many years ago 😵💫), and the Ka-bar machete probably has the most comfortable handle of any of them. It’s sole weakness is a non-convexed edge that can stick in the work, but that’s easily fixed. Thanks for the interesting review.
P.S. Similar to the Kwaiken Air, you reviewed and I bought the Boker + Kansei Matsuno Nori Flipper Knife, which is a higher end CEO, also VG10. Very classy and the perfect low profile office EDC.
I’ve been wanting a Kukri forever, but can never decide on one because I don’t know what to look for and don’t want a piece of junk. In your opinion, which one is the best looking/performing with a wooden handle? I really don’t have a specific need to fill, but am looking for a traditional or a modern updated interpretation of traditional looking Kukri that’s fully functional rather than a display item... a good cutter I could fantasize traipsing through the jungle with. Thanks.
@@BloodGrooveKnives For a modern Kukri the Condor shown is a good deal and a safe bet. Unfortunately links here or refs to other web sites aren’t coming through, but do a search for British Army Service or British Army Issue, and look at the models and related designs that come up. Most BSA’s will have a Buffalo horn handle, but then you can review similar designs that have wood handles.
Is there any way you could do a video on combo edge knives? I'm a mechanic and Search & Rescue/disaster relief volunteer and having the partially serrated edge gives me a serious advantage when I'm cutting through tougher material in the shop or in the field. I know there are a bunch of options out there but they are a pain to find. Currently I carry a Gerber Gator I have had for years and have routinely cut everything with it from coolant hoses to carpet and card board. I think I'm due for an upgrade!
What about that browning kukri in satin finish with the G10?
I’m looking for a fixed blade full tang/ exposed tang that’s between 5.5 and 7 inches long and 0.16 inch thickness or less in a good carbon steel capable of holding an edge. Seems like most “survival” knives these days are sharpened prybars (cough cough…. Becker BK2). Cheers!
Lon Humphrey Alpha 👌
The example DCA gave of black on Lc200n blade from 9 months in a river seems more like a case of surface deposits from mineral water in a stream than real corrosion. Was there any pitting?
When I hear the word "kukri", for me there is only one, Cold Steel Gurkha Kukri. With its' 12" blade & 5/16" thick full flat grind, it sinks deeper in wood than any other belt carry knife that I own or have tried, & I've been collecting for decades. My first one was in "Carbon V" steel & I love it so much that I had to spend considerably more money to add the higher grade stainless steel to my collection. Whether splitting, chopping, batoning or feather stick making, it excels. The weight is acceptable for its' versatility.
Hey DCA ,if a woodchuck could chuck wood what knife would a woodchuck use to chuck wood ?
Hello, I love big knives, thick blades, big handles, etc. one that comes to mind is the Medford Praetorian. However it is severely out of my budget. Can you suggest a couple alternatives that are sub 200$ that are of a similar style? Thanks
Hi DCA. When I trek and camp, I use a big blade (axe or chopper) for wood prep and an opinel for food prep as well as striking my ferro rod. I would love a one-hand opening system knife that is also light and inexpensive as well as slicy. Is the dozier the answer? If yes, is the coating on the d2 version a problem for a crisp 90 degrees spine? Thanks
The ka bar kukri is the one ❤
Hey DCA. I have a question about choosing my next knife, and I'd like to look at alternative brands. I have been a big Kershaw fan for many years. There is something about Kershaw knifes that just speaks to me. I own two different CQC's, a Launch 13, my sons Boy Scout knife is a Dividend, and even a Nacho bottle opener. I've looked at knives from other brands but very little appeals to me under $150. Using $150 as the budget, and knowing the style of knives that I own, what alternative brands and models should I look at for a future purchase.
Love the show guys, but could you pull back the camera a little so we can see the full length of the knives on the table? I like to pick out those I like before you cover them but only ever get to see two thirds of the knife. Many thanks.
Hey DCA - you are responsible for me becoming interested in the knife universe...thanks for that (I guess ;)) - recently I saw a video where you talked about budget camp chef knives (and briefly mentioned your own brand) - I would be super interested in a more in-depth coverage of that category of knives...thanks in advance!
Right here my good man: th-cam.com/video/ll_YhMhpGRU/w-d-xo.html
@@knifecenter Oh wow - thanks! Now is there a notification service for when the Nordsmith will be available again? ;)
Hey DCA, I'm looking for a fixed blade for cleaning ducks and walleye. Currently use a bubba blade but it's a tad too big but when I look at bird and trout blades they seem a tad to small for me. Looking for that happy medium and possibly something I could daily carry as well, pocket sheath or scout carry. Thanks!
I like that Benchmade Bailout but I wish they would make it with a drop point instead of the tanto.
What's the best tactical folder for carving a turkey. Or is there a karabit better suited to the task?
I acquired a couple of vintage camp knives that are full flat grind, but only have an edge bevel on the palm side of the blade for a right-handed grip. The “show side” of the blade has a zero edge bevel surface. This makes them kind of a Scandi-Chisel-Full flat grind, excellent for carving wood. Are there any modern makers using this kind of grind?
I didn't watch the whole vid.but one of the best KUKRI BUSHERS i have used is the TOPS DART in 5160 spring steel it is one of my all-time faves for BUSHING and MAJOR hacking and an excellent chopper.. I wouldn't use a COLD STEEL on any hardwoods.. I used one of my SPARTANS and the blade actually had little bends on the BLADE!! Steel is 2 SOFT for HEAVY chopping. The Demko lock is FANTASTIC but the AUS-10 is 2 soft .just a personal perspective from a Woodsman.. The TOPS CUMA 2.0 is an EXCELLENT Semi-kukri smatchet, axe. Self-defense BLADE AWESOME BLADE.. DART TOPS or CUMA 2.0 TOPS are my choices when I'm in the woods..
Thank you for the entertainment and the knowledge. Was wondering what would be the best steel for wood carving and/or the best knife to do that? Dad is looking for one or a set that will do that. Thank you again.
Since wood carving involves a lot of push cuts, the best steels are ones with fine grain structures that can take high polished edges easily... think simple carbon steels like 1075, 1095, O1... or stainless stuff like 12C27 et al. Yes other steels will work just fine, but these are some of the best options imo -DCA
Can you name a manual opening lock that can be both closed without getting your hands on the blade path and without the blade bouncing back no matter the force you apply? (unlike the axis lock or the compression lock)
So far i have only found that the hawk lock with the toogle detent, the SLS and the shark lock (sort of) can do this... are there any others?
Hey DCA, iam looking for a strong Bushcraft Folder. Which Knives you Would recommend.
For carving, maybe Lite Batoning, feathersticking etc. Scandi Would be nice. For Foodprep, maybe a flatgrind. What knives would you recomment their for too. Which Steel? And what Would your Favorite Grind? Clip is ok, But a Sheat would be nice too. Best wishes
Howdy DCA, what's the different purposes between axe/hatchet head styles?
Hey DCA! Great content as always! One for your faq, I’m looking for a MASSIVE clever style blade, folder, thumb studs or flipper that I can use to do everything from light branches, disobedient children and opening boxes. Thanks and keep up the great work!
Hello Dave
I have a Benchmade 9400 Osborn Auto. But need to tighten the pivot screw very often because of blade play. What to do? Locktite? And what kind of Locktite. Best wishes from Poul Christensen 🇩🇰
I'm looking for a folding knife that makes the "fuller" work in the same role as a thumb stud or thumb hole. When I'm looking for it, I see a blade with a very sharp groove edge, with the "fuller" cut off in the middle. Isn't this sharp part dangerous? Also, make sure that you can sort by "fuller" in the knife center shop.
LC200N and H1 are very corrosion resistant by blade steel standards but it is not particulary corrosion resistant compared to materials designed for continuous sea water exposure like superduplex steels or inconel. But those dont work as a blades.
American made boot knife. Best options?
could you just fit that back spacer/ glass breaker into the Bugout?
Most serious question, what's your pick of the swords that you sell. I'm looking to one up those that's not a knife people.
When is the Tops storm vector going to be available?
Howdy DCA! With the holidays coming up I'd like to get my brother something slightly more upscale as an alternative to his CRKT M16-10KSF daily carry - its one of his favorite knives for its size and carry, but the chisel grind and biased liner-lock aren't quite perfect for his needs. He is a leftie so reversible pocket clips and an ambidextrous locks are preferred. Also hoping for an upgraded blade steel over 8Cr as he cuts a lot of boxes so edge retention is a selling point. Do you have any interesting suggestions for a slim folder with these features that I might be overlooking (i.e. not a Benchmade or SpyderCo)?
I'm a software systems engineer but a backwoods boy as well... Love technology but my heart belongs to the outdoors.. love earth tones.. Ex military but not into carrying around my old Yarborough Knife, lol.. Anyways, any ideas on a fixed blade and a folder combo🤔🤔. Ty for all the videos btw.. 😎👍