(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best camping knives & tools

Thanks!

You can start pretty simple. All you HAVE to have is a decent knife. A simple Mora knife is what I use a lot. You can always go for nicer knives if you prefer but a Mora will do wonders because of the Scandi grind edge. Any sharp knife will carve but I personally recommend knives with a Scandi grind because they can cut deeper and they offer more controlled cuts.

Here are my typical spoon carving tools

Gransfors Brooks wildlife hatchet but you can use cheaper options like a Fiskars hatchet. You don't HAVE to have a hatchet, it just helps take out large waste pieces quicker.

Mora knife for general shaping and carving.

• Alternatively, the Mora Eldris is another good carving option with a grippier rubber handle, contemporary colors and a shorter blade. Also the whole thing is basically waterproof so you don't have to worry about the handle or metal getting wet or anything. It's also small enough to pretty comfortably fit in a pocket.
  
  Pfeil palm gouge for scooping out the bowls of spoons. This CAN be done with the knife but it is a huge pain. You could also Dremel the bowl out if you have one and don't want to buy a gouge.
  
  Opinel folding saw for making stop cuts and cutting wood to length. Any wood saw will do though.
  
  Other than that just some sandpaper and some food safe oil like mineral oil or Howard's butcher block conditioner to finish it off and make it water resistant.
  
  Resources
  
  Here is a great video of Jill Swan showing how to carve a spoon with a hatchet, saw, knife, and gouge.
  
  Here is a video with Ben Orford showing his process for carving a spoon as well. He uses a hook knife instead of a gouge for scooping the bowl out. Both methods work but I find a palm gouge to be easier to work with and a bit easier to sharpen.
  
  Here is a video with Barn The Spoon using an axe a knife and a hook-knife.
  
  If you don't want to spend the money on a gouge or a hook knife then you can always carve a Spatula because they don't require a bowl!
  
  TIPS
  
  You can avoid using an axe by using a saw to make a series of stop cuts and then sawing down or using your knife to "baton" off the side pieces. You can also just knife carve the whole thing with a knife but it will take way more time.
  
  Wood: make sure your wood is food safe. Most fruit woods and oak and maple or birch are perfectly safe. Here is a list of common spoon carving woods
  
  
• I personally prefer using Birch because it looks nice, is pretty tough, food safe, and is quite enjoyable to carve both green or seasoned.
  
  
• I personally suggest carving seasoned wood because you don't have to worry about it potentially splitting or cracking while it dries. Greenwood is WAY WAY easier to carve but putting in all the work just to have a spoon crack can be heart breaking. If you are going to carve seasoned wood then you also want to make sure you aren't choosing a super hard wood that will be a huge pain to carve. This is another reason I love Birch. Maple is also pretty easy to carve seasoned but a little harder and can tear out if your tools aren't super sharp.
  
  Make sure your tools are sharp! A super sharp knife, hatchet, and gouge not only makes the work a lot easier and enjoyable but also a lot safer because you have way less chance of slipping. There are tons of videos on youtube on how to sharpen knives, specifically scandi grind knives, hatchets, and gouges.
  
  Just have fun! Your first couple of project may not come out beautiful but you will get the hang of it.

Alright, sounds good. A very basic recommendation would be a Spyderco Endura, which is a great knife in VG-10 stainless steel. In this steel you should occasionally oil your blade, but that's really it. If that looks too big, the Spyderco Delica is the same knife, essentially, but smaller. Another good Spyderco would be the Spyderco Stretch, also in VG-10. All three of these have strong back locks.

For a slightly more expensive knife, the Spyderco Manix 2 comes in 154CM stainless steel and a hard-use ball bearing lock.

The Benchmade Griptilian comes in 154CM stainless steel and has the second strongest lock on the market on it- the axis lock. There's also a version with a thumb hole instead of a thumb stud.

The Buck TM Vantage Pro comes in S30V stainless steel- one of the better steels available up until the $150 mark- but only costs about $60, and is by far the cheapest knife of its size available in S30V.

The Kershaw Blur in S30V is an amazing assisted knife in good steel. The Kershaw Junk Yard Dog is a great folder in a composite of a couple of good steels.


The Zero Tolerance 0700 is kind of funny looking but a solid knife in S30V.

So far, all of these are within your price range. Now, I'll move up just a bit and double it- you're now looking at a $200 range.


The Manix 2 XL in S30V is one of the strongest folders out there. It's definitely a hard-use knife and will survive a hell of a lot.

The Benchmade 275 Adamas is probably the strongest folder in existence. It's in D2 tool steel and has an incredibly robust axis lock that was beefed up to take more damage.

The Spyderco Caly 3.5 in ZDP-189 steel is an incredible knife in fantastic blade steel. I wish they made more things in it, I really do.

The Spyderco Techno is a bit smaller but will certainty last nonetheless.

The Spyderco Sage in S30V will do it for ya, that's for sure.

I'd love me some Benchmade Emissary in S30V.

The ZT 0350 is a folding tank.

All of these knives will last for whatever you want to do with them. Some are too heavy to reasonably EDC, like the BM Adamas and the ZT 0350, but others, like the BM Griptilian, are perfect EDC knives.

If you have questions on any of the knives I've linked or about their care and maintenance, feel free to ask.

I'm sorry for leading you down this rabbit hole... It's a great hobby but it's a really niche one that's massively popular, so every Instagrammer has a book. My favorite book is The Artful Wooden Spoon as it's really cheap for a craft book, has beautiful designs and photography, and it goes over every possible method to carve, whether traditional hook knives and wet wood, or dried wood and power tools. Spon is another great book but I haven't gotten a copy yet so...I don't know if I could honestly recommend it.

I got started in my summer before first semester of college, so I went the cheap way which is following many instagram accounts, youtube videos, and buying Mora knives off Amazon rather than having a hand-forged one made for me. (The price point and waiting list of blacksmiths is insane). This is my knife, not the best for spooncarving as it has softer steel and is more meant for rough bushcraft, but it was given to me when I turned 16 and is now on my hip whenever possible: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EAL1090/ref=twister_B07H1138CR?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

This one comes more highly recommended by the pros: https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Carving-Knife-Laminated-3-2-Inch/dp/B005IW5YN8?ref_=bl_dp_s_web_6501052011

Then you'll need a hook knife: https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Carving-Stainless-0-5-Inch-Internal/dp/B01N4FNUX4/ref=pd_sbs_468_2/130-9218892-1730051?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01N4FNUX4&pd_rd_r=8d8fce0c-2c9d-11e9-8a86-1d7479451c7c&pd_rd_w=cqTt0&pd_rd_wg=78jDF&pf_rd_p=588939de-d3f8-42f1-a3d8-d556eae5797d&pf_rd_r=KEJZKBPVA4EWJ7CZJPNT&psc=1&refRID=KEJZKBPVA4EWJ7CZJPNT

A hatchet is of course also necessary, but those are very common to find. Almost any will do. Sharpening is the most important part, regardless if you have a hook knife made by a blacksmith who makes his own charcoal for his forge and only uses recycled steel, or if you use a knife forged in Mora and bought from Amazon. Especially with the odd shapes of hook knives, sandpaper is the best way to go- try googling the "Scary Sharp Method"- but it basically comes down to working the bevels and steel with progressively finer grit. Autobody shops will have the wet/dry sandpaper in the grits you'll need, from 100grit for rough work and customizing your blades, to 6000 grit when you're finishing up.

https://www.instagram.com/michigansloyd/ is one of my favorite spooncarvers to follow on instagram, he's a professional and can create a beautiful spatula in less time than it takes me to split a branch. https://www.instagram.com/klipnockywoods/ is another good one.

http://www.robin-wood.co.uk/wood-craft-blog/ this is probably one of the best blogs, there is a scroll on the side with links to posts for beginners, from what knives are the best to what oil to use.

https://www.emmetvandriesche.com/blog/how-i-carve-wooden-spoons is another good blog.

I'll try to stop now, but there's just so much going on in this niche.

I'll chime in here on fixed blades.

Production Knives

KA-BAR's warranty is quite good, and of particular note is their Becker line. I like the BK-5 and BK-7, the latter of which I had DuraCoated and the edge touched up on a paper wheel. On the off chance that these full-tang knives are broken, they'll be replaced.

Ontario Knife Company is another that has a great warranty, and I can personally attest to the quality of their 1095 HC with regards to heat treat and general strength. It is hard to avoid giving these guys honorable mention, especially since their Marine Raider model goes on Amazon for ~$55, which is a steal given that the knife is just under ten inches of 1/4" thick quality carbon steel.

Semi-Custom/Full Custom Knives

I am surprised I see Survive Knives nowhere in this thread. They're well known for their GSO line, which has been documented to perform extremely well in the field.

Busse Knives are also quite robust and hardy, backed by a good warranty. Their fame for producing extremely tough cutters is well-earned. The steels they use are extremely durable and make the knife very resilient; usually their INFI steel, occasionally S7 or some other premium grade. The knives themselves have a superb fit and finish as well as a splendid out-of-the-box edge. Busse has many sister companies, but all have the same ironclad guarantee of quality and product protection. With "buy it for life" in mind, Busse is an excellent choice, whether one is buying production or going custom.

I must also mention Treeman and Behring Knives. For both tactical and traditional field knives, I had the pleasure of doing business with both James Behring Sr. and James Behring Jr. for a piece that was experimental at the time. These guys consistently make an absolutely killer fixed blade that is tough as nails; here's a video of George Matheis of MCS going to town with one such blade on an oil drum as proof.

While not technically a knife, RMJ Tactical deserves a mention here. With tomahawks that can pierce kevlar, act as entry tools, and open the chassis of a car like a can opener, these are hard-use axes which serve remarkably well and are backed by a fantastic lifetime warranty.

For more traditional (but no less effective) fare, one could look to Himalayan Imports if one were so inclined. Touting their Ang Khola model as "the unbreakable knife", their trust in their product runs so deep that if you can manage to break it, they will give you two -- free. Hand forged and very sharp, the fit and finish of these thick and heavy blades is outstanding. The khukuri is a wicked chopper, coming in at reasonable prices, varying in size depending on the user's preferences.

All of these are great options if one wants to buy only one blade.

Obviously, it will depend on what he's already gotten for himself, what you can afford, what kind of sailing he's doing, and where you are.

You know your dad, I don't, but I'm going to suggest that a genuinely antique spyglass isn't going to have the utility you are envisioning. If he has a den/study/other area to display a curio, then fine, but it probably shouldn't be knocked around and soaked in the ways it will while sailing. A good [waterproof pair of binoculars] ( http://www.amazon.com/Bushnell-Waterproof-Fogproof-Prism-Binocular/dp/B006U3ZIWQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1370063798&sr=1-1&keywords=waterproof+binoculars) would be much better, IMO.

In my limited experience, here are some things most sailors might need, in no particular order:

• PFD--Personal Floatation Device, "lifejacket". On wetter, faster and/or smaller boats many people like a [kayak style vest] (http://www.amazon.com/Stohlquist-Personal-Floatation-X-Large-XX-Large/dp/B000FB9JBU/ref=sr_1_10?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1370063280&sr=1-10&keywords=paddling+vest) . If it's a drier cruising style of sailing, [an automatic inflating vest] ( http://www.amazon.com/Revere-ComfortMax-Inflatable-Automatic-30-52-Inch/dp/B000EG3VI8/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1370063031&sr=8-6&keywords=automatic+inflatable+life+vest) is great. I linked an inflatable with a safety harness, a good idea for offshore, rough weather but if it's sunny-day and flat water sailing, then a sub-$100 version should be great.
  
  
• A hat they will wear. If you know him just right, you can pick out his "sailing hat" for life. Maybe a ball cap with the perfect logo on it, maybe a hiking/sun hat from the outdoor supplier, maybe a Tilley hat. It will live on the boat and he will wear it as soon as he steps on board.
  
  
• Gloves. Plenty to choose from. [Here's an avereage priced, commonly available sample] (http://www.amazon.com/Deckhand-Gloves-Deck-Glove-Short/dp/B00140P1DG/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1370063702&sr=1-2&keywords=gill+deckhand)
  
  
• Footwear. Way too dependent on the type of sailing for me to supply good samples. Post specifics if you want suggestions, otherwise google "sailing boots(or shoes)" for ideas.
  
  
• Knife. Plenty of basic ["Sailing Knives"'] (http://www.amazon.com/Maxam-SKRULE-Misc-Sailors-Tool/dp/B003COEDMW/ref=sr_1_4?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1370064431&sr=1-4&keywords=sailing+knife) on the market. Normally includes a blade (duh), a marlinspike and a shackle key. Again, you know him. Some prefer a [multitool with an easy to deploy blade] (http://www.amazon.com/Gerber-30-000587-Crucial-Multi-Tool-Black/dp/B00783N8MO/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1370064557&sr=1-2&keywords=gerber+crucial), while still others will prefer a fixed, small (maybe 3 or 4 inches) blade with a sheath.
  
  
• Polarised sunglasses. 'nuff said
  
  
• Tethers (like "croakies") for abovementioned hats and glasses. It's windy, things prefer to fall overboard than stay attached to you.
  
  
• Foul weather gear. In some places, even when it's nice on land it is cold and wet on the water. You can use hiking style soft/hard shell jackets and rain gear as well as a VAST assortment of sailing-specific jackets and pants. Look at the apparel sections at websites like westmarine or mauiprosailing.
  
  
• Books. "Sail Trim" and "Knots" are good places to start. Normally, you should avoid a "for dummies" or "eyewitness" type book for someone who is already sailing.
  
  Does he own the boat? Jackpot! You almost cannot go wrong if you talk to him and do a little bit of research. ALL boats, huge or tiny, need many somethings, all the time, forever. Some silly expensive, others affordable. Charts, Compass, Air-horn, Fenders, Tail-bags, Sheets, Blocks, Cleats, Clutches, Etc., Etc.
  
  Oh, can't figure it all out? Try this:
  
  http://www.westmarine.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ShopView?langId=-1&storeId=11151&catalogId=10001&page=Gift-Cards&redirectTo=WM

Aaalright so he's a simple man. I love that. He likes his tools and his gear to be life lasting and that's something I totally agree with.

A strong ass hatchet would be something manly that he might like.

I know this is out of your price range but a good electric Drill saves you so much trouble when you love fixing things around the house.

He has a pocket knife? Why not a multi-tool. I love these things. Super useful. Or a Swiss army knife.

I would love to have any the above mentioned items as gifts so yeah.

Hope you will find the perfect one thou. Happy hunting :D

I've got one! I've had it for quite a few years. I never EDC'ed it, but I used the neat leg wearable sheath with the two adjustable straps to secure it under my car seat for a few years, where it was easy to access and I used it quite often. After a while the edge did get some surface rust which dulled it a lot, but a few minutes with a diamond stone took care of that when I finally got around to it. Was that rust likely my fault for keeping it in a ragtop car that probably doesn't stay that dry in damp or humid weather? Probably, but still worth mentioning.

It's quite a heavy knife for it's size, coming in at 3.9 oz, but that also makes it feel like an indestructible little tank, which I always liked about it. When I kept it sharp it typically cut well, and felt comfortable to hold and use. Looks like the cheapest I could find it for is under $34 at Amazon, so that's not too bad a price if you want to pick one up. Feel free to shoot me any other questions you have about it if you like.

I love camping/outdoor stuff too and I've gotten a lot of fun gifts over the years. Here's a few that I think any outdoor lover would enjoy.

Flint fire starter
Compact camping hammock
Camping Tomahawk (Seriously, me and my friends had so much fun learning to throw this)

If you're really stuck you can always just take a trip to REI, that store is like candyland for the outdoor lover, although they can be expensive. Camelbacks, lanterns, oudoor cookware, and all other cool stuff can be found there.

If you're leaning towards a gaming gift that can be harder unless you know what he needs, and most parts for a gaming computer are probably going to clear your budget. But you mentioned he likes GoT so I could reccomend the Game of Thrones - Board Game. I've played this and it's a lot of fun.

Gorruck 34L GR2 Coyote Tan - a good bag, heavy, uncomfortable, probably give it to my grandchildren in like 50 years

Flip Flops - generic things

Bigblue 28W solar charger - very good, can charge my battery up during the day if i leave it in the sun which I've never really done honestly

Jakemy hardware tools - seamed useful? i've never needed this

Army glove shells - i thought i used these a lot and were indistructable but now that i think of it, i don't use them that often and are probably pretty cheaply made.

Sharpie, pen, all weather notebook - probably should switch over to a fisher space pen...

Straws - these are probably already broken.

Whistle - really really really loud

Fire-striker, matches, lighter - i'm not sure i have enough ways to start a fire

Fresnel lens - ok, now i have enough

LED flashlight - i used to go running in the middle of the night with this flashlight, its tiny

LED flashlight - this isn't the one i have but looks kinda similar? i don't remember where i got mine

Earbuds - generic cheap earbuds

Leatherman Surge - given to me by my wife for passing the bar. thanks wife!

First Aide kit - i put mine together from stuff i've stolen from friends houses whenever i go over and use the bathroom

playing cards - these look very similar to the ones i have, they are plastic so they won't get rained on

glasses/ sunglasses - i have really bad vision

personal hygiene kit - aahhhh dry shaving

Sawyer Mini / syringe, collapsible canteen (dirty), heavy duty straw - i've never used this

collapsible canteen (clean) - i've never used this either

sewing kit - i've used this a lot

ID tags - i guess if i get blown up they'll know my blood type?

garbage bag - for when my pockets are full

elastic bands - i use these when packing to keep rolled socks and things from falling apart

Salt - i have nooooo idea why i have this

cooking grate - i'm not going to hold meat over a fire with a stick like some sort of caveman

heavy duty ziplock bag - in case my mapcase breaks and other reasons

rip-patch - leftover from when i needed a pack because i bought a crummy cheap inflatable sleeping pad.

Army Fleece Beanie - i always keep this at the top of my pack

4 Bungie Cords - not the one i use but similar. to make a field-expedient shelter

Trowel - for disposal of biological wastes

Lensatic compass - because GPS should only be a backup

Pocketboy 130 folding saw - i have a bigger one for yardwork, this small one is really great

Tent stakes - for tent staking

Ravpower 26800 Battery - use this all the time can fast chage my stuff

Battery Battery holder, cables, wall charger - all fits togehter like glove!

Army Poncho - wear it, make a tent out of it etc

Microfiber towel - not the one i use but similar. i mainly use this for when the kids accidentally fall in a lake like they tend to do for some reason

Down Jacket - cheap chinese knockoff... i feel bad for not buying american

Wet weather top - not sure this is worth the space/weight

Wet Weather bottom - not sure if this is worth the weight/space

Silkweights - PJs! and warmth

Jungle Blanket - this is a lot better than the army's woobie. lighter and warmer

Gransfors Bruks Wildlife Hatchet - again, gift from wife. she wanted me to chop things and be more manly, generally. now i come home with parts of wildlife for her to cook

Map of New England - or, how i stopped worrying and love dismounted land navigation

PT belt - keeps me safe in all situations

Compression straps - i don't like lashing things to the outside but i guess i can if i wanted to

Fork and Spoon - stole these from the kitchen. i'll probably be replacing this soon with something titanium.

​

EDIT: i just priced it out: $1,585.08 total

Just an FYI, I spend a LOT of time in the woods and put a lot of research into which leatherman to buy. Im so very happy I let a guy at Le Baron talk me into buying the Victorinox SwissTool RS. Its locking mechanism is way better IMO, the selection of tools is a little better, its got a much higher quality feel...all around just a way better product.

Does he spend time in the backcountry? Id highly recommend a Sawyer Mini. Pretty much the best filter you can buy. Can throw it right in line on a camel pack too. Super cool.

Wetterlings and Gransfors Brux are the considered by many to be some of the best axes and hatchets you can buy (and they certainly cost enough!).

However, on the more normally priced, but still higher-end of things, you can safely get an Estwing, Fiskars, or Condor - with the edge going to Condor for being the most 'traditional' of those more normal priced hatchets.

Of those that I listed, I own the Estwing and Fiskars, as the others have just been out of my price range. I like them both very much. Over time, the finish on the leather handle of the Estwing will crack and flake, which is probably likely due to sun exposure - you will need to maintain the handle a bit eventually. The Fiskars, though definitely the most modern looking - are quite awesome hatchets for the price, and are incredibly durable. It's edge might be a little more fragile (it's just an angle thing, you could probably reprofile it if you were desperate) than the Estwing, but it cuts a little better too - you just have to avoid rocks (as you should be anyways).

cant go wrong with a griptilian. beefy and grippy enough, and has such great jimping, that your hands being wet is never going to matter. the axis lock is easier and safer to operate with wet hands than pretty much any other locking system too, IMO. far from flimsy.. 154cm stainless aint no joke. check out the 551 , or the 550hg . i have 2, great folders. easily my choice as an outdoor work knife

I did a quick check on amazon and came up with three choices that seem decent


maxam sailors tool


Camillus


Oldtimer


I don't know maxam but it has a lot of good reviews on amazon. I do know Camillus and Old Timer though and they make good knives. Camillus would be the one I'd pick but I'd get a maxam too as back up since it's so cheap. Old timer knives are made by Schrade and they are usually good knives.


Hope this helped.

PS- Gerber quality has gone down over the last few years so I wouldn't recommend buying anything they are selling, but to each their own.

Well, like I said, they're literally always looking for adult volunteers. As long as you're not a creep, they'd be glad to have you. As far as best places in the UK, I can't really help you much. Cabela's or Bass Pro Shop are huge outdoor gear retailers in the US that would definitely carry tomahawks, there's probably a UK equivalent. Or you could try amazon. SOG make the best cheap throwing hawks, although my experience is mostly with traditional Native American tomahawks, I've thrown a few. After that you just need a tree with nothing important behind it.

What about a hatchet? Certain parts of Alaska are no joke, and if you really trust him with anything a hatchet is actually an effective tool.

If you want to mall ninja it up a little bit, I have a SOG tomahawk that I honestly kind of love the shit out of, I think it was about $30

linky-dink

My weapon of choice is this tactical tomahawk because tough it sounds counterintuitive, Mythbusters did a show on whether guns or blades would be better, and blades consistently won. Plus, if noise draws more zombies, this will keep us in stealth mode.

I want /u/vogueadishu on my team because she is rocking at quitting smoking. That pretty much means she can attack a shambling zombie with ease, zombies being so much less powerful than nicotine cravings. And she can take her frustrations out on them. Plus I always picture her dancing. She would be majestic!

/u/StoryDone is one of the nicest, sweetest people in the world. You don't hurt or threaten someone a nice person loves. You just don't. It unleashes a power beyond that of a thousand suns. I want that power on my team.

Wow this is an awesome giveaway! Thanks so much, so here's my link: https://www.amazon.com/Victorinox-Swiss-Army-Cadet-Knife/dp/B014STZH9W

I've been eyeing different Victorinox tools and I've been meaning to pick up this cadet. I love how thin it is and I like that it is more traditional instead of tactical, makes for a great EDC piece in any situation.

If you like kershaw you can get a blur with S30v steel for around 65$ on amazon if you still want a kershaw. I've never been too impresed with them since I find their build quality to be lacking. They seem to have an excessive amount of blade play and use average quality steels in most of their knives. The a premium steel that can hold a razor sharp working edge. The spyderco delica/endura line is also a great knife. They have full flat ground blades that come razor sharp from the factory with absolutlely no blade play. I personally carry a green delica as one of my edc knives. The dragonfly is also great if you want a knife that dissapears on your person. it is a featherweight knife, that cuts and handles like a much larger knife.

If you are looking for a knife that can take an absolutely harsh beating, I would have to reccomend an Ontario RAT 1 or 2 depending on you size preference. They are a bit heavy in hand compared to other knives it size, but perform just as good as any of my spydercos. It is also on the cheaper side at around 25$.

The benchmades are also a good choice, but I would also reccomend the benchmade mini-presidio.

Anyways, I thought I might as well just post some links to them:

S30v Kershaw Blur

Benchmade Mini Presidio

[Benchmade Griptillian] (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000Q9BOF0/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2Q6YQ3PL1NNYW&coliid=I1IO3PSF8569TW)

Benchmade Mini Griptillian (I prefer thumb hole openers, but both griptillians also are offered with combo edges and thumb studs.)

Spyderco Dragonfly

Spyderco Delica

Spyderco Endura

Ontario RAT 1

Ontario RAT 2

I'm going to bust up the Leatherman love train and recommend the Victoronox SwissTools. You can check out the Spirit or the RS/Rescue Tool. While I love my Leatherman Surge, the fit and finish between it and my Swiss RS tool is night and day. My Surge is a beast of a tool the RS tool can keep up with no matter what I am using them for, the RS tool feels like a fine Swiss watch vs the Surge which feels like a finely crafted hammer.

Here are some options:

Ka-Bar:

Mark 1 Kraton handle

BK5

Neck Knife

Condor:

Bushcraft Basic

Kephart Knife

Bushlore

Basically-a-Mora-options:

Hultafors Heavy Duty

Cold Steel Finn Hawk

Ka-Bar's 1095 is pretty damn good. The Magnum Camp Knife is bigger than you were looking for, but it's a solid value. Condor knives are very high value, but can be rough around the edges. The Hultafors and Cold Steel knives I linked are stainless, but should do well in a kayak. All these knifes will take a beating and should be useful for a wide variety of tasks (some better than others, of course, but I wanted to offer a wide selection of size, shape, and grind).

I got one of the wooden handle crossguard ones; http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003Z5CTV0/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?qid=1418406010&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX200_QL40

I love it and I think it's beautiful... I vaguely remember thinking the plastic mora knives looked silly when I first saw them but now that I've used them I think that they're so cool that I think they look awesome by association.

But yeah, they're great knives. I mostly use mine for its intended purpose of woodcarving. The only drawback I've found is that the mora blades are so thick they're not ideal for cutting food; but that's not really a drawback because that's not what it's for (opinel is for food, mora is for wilderness adventures).

I'm new here, and correct me if I'm wrong, but you could really use a good shovel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzpRh-ZE9Mo

http://www.amazon.com/Chinese-Military-Shovel-Emergency-WJQ-308/dp/B00A2GLZS8

Amazing pack though, and great documentation. You have my vote.

EDIT: Nevermind, I just re-checked the Google spreadsheet. You already have a U-Dig-It Folding Shovel and Pouch. Man, what didn't you think of?

It really depends on what you want out of your multitool. My leatherman skeletool CX often finds itself in my EDC for class/general life, but my leatherman wave finds itself in my pocket or on my belt when I'm working or camping. For a compact, quality multitool, the skeletool is the way to go IMO. The more features, the more weight, and added pocket bulk.

Another good, small multitool that is very compact would be a victorinox cadet but you give up pliers and what not.

More requirements you'd like it to have would help make a better rec!

My favorite knife by far to whittle with is this one, the Cold Steel Tuff Lite:

http://i.imgur.com/w0PhkOw.jpg

I use it, and the smaller version of it, the Mini Tuff Lite, for most of my carving (full disclosure, I'm a novice wood carver who just enjoys killing time noodling around).

While I generally prefer the inexpensive Cold Steel knives, I do own a dozen or so dedicated carving knives of a wide variety of makers, including some custom knives.

For an inexpensive option in fixed blades I really like the Mora 120 and Mora 122:

http://i.imgur.com/6L0w1lZ.jpg

I do also own some traditional whittlers, but I really haven't ever warmed up to carving with them.

I use the Tuff Lite knives so much that I've got an assortment of them, and have converted some of them to prison-shank style fixed blades by wrapping them heavily for comfort:

http://i.imgur.com/j8pN4Gd.jpg

They're cheap, sturdy and easy to sharpen. I do use a file to break the edges on the blade spine when I get them, but other than that I find them incredible comfortable to carve with. I frequently complete entire projects with nothing but the Tuff Lite (though I do have a collection of gouges and chisels and such as well, I prefer to work with a knife).

http://i.imgur.com/3tbo2Ds.jpg

The 2 words on the knife means "lucky". If i were to guess, they were probably chinese knockoffs. Not sure any reputable or knives with tradition going to name themselves lucky, more so with crappy designed box.

My choice on knife: I'm currently using a camping knife, Mora Companion, $14 in amazon. I picked the stainless steel version for ease of maintenance. They are cheap and works great. The scandi grind make it easy to sharpen the knife myself. Being a cheap knife with lifetime warranty and good review, I don't feel guilty for trashing it while learning how to use and maintain a knife.

If you're looking at foldable shovels, I'd check out the Chinese Military issue one here ---> http://www.amazon.com/Chinese-Military-Shovel-Emergency-WJQ-308/dp/B00A2GLZS8

Here's a pretty quirky government video that demonstrates the many uses of it--->https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b60OZhrTB6o

I don't have any experience with one myself, but they seem pretty useful and might be of interest to you or any other outdoorsman here.

The Mora comes in a lot of different forms and the price is pretty nice Ex1 http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Classic-Craftsmen-Utility-3-9-Inch/dp/B003Z5CTV0/ref=sr_1_19?ie=UTF8&qid=1421064634&sr=8-19&keywords=MORA+fixed+blade Ex2 http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Classic-Scout-Stainless-3-3-Inch/dp/B00EAL17G6/ref=sr_1_14?ie=UTF8&qid=1421064219&sr=8-14&keywords=MORA+fixed+blade Ex3 http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Classic-Craftsmen-Utility-4-2-Inch/dp/B003Z5GRUY/ref=pd_sbs_sg_5?ie=UTF8&refRID=08QQT1AEGRYMCVC9NXTB I dont know much about Elk Ridge tho which model from Elk Ridge do you like? If none of the Mora's are of interest to you then maybe someone can find you a knife like the Elk Ridge your looking at. Or maybe someone who owns one can tell you the quality of them.

I just bought this axe, i really like it. It feels nice in my hands and it looks beautiful, best of all it doesn't have gransfors bruks price tag.

http://www.amazon.com/Condor-1-5-Pounds-Greenland-Pattern-Leather/dp/B004WMFNIG

Kershaw Half-ton is a fun little pint size to have in the collection, but I wouldn't EDC it. And its dirt cheap.

As for EDC worthy, love me some dragonfly. Also hear lots of good things about the Cold Steel Mini Tuff Lite

I have this hatchet which I got for wood working, but I'd take it camping too.

It's only 1.5 lbs, and pretty short so it'd do well in a backpack.

Since you're not supposed to cut down trees in the boundary waters anyways, a small axe/hatchet like this will do fine for splitting and chopping the downed wood you find.

Man those are pretty expensive. Option 1 looks really good to me.

I'd recommend something like this, battle tested in Vietnam and onwards.

Personally, I'd use something like SOG or Cold Steel which works well for me but I don't use it enough to let you know if it's really BIFL quality, it's certainly nice.

Amazon SOG

Xbox addiction?

... All right, glossing over that... I recommend looking into one of these: a fusion tomahawk patterned after the tomahawk special forces used in Vietnam. At a one-quarter strength swing, that thing can put a hole in a 100-gallon steel drum. A badass gift for any young man.

Moras are great. I also love the Hultafors GK. It's a little more stout than the Mora, feels great in hand, and is cheap as hell.

I recently received $400 in Amazon gift cards from my Chase Freedom rewards card. These are some of the practical items I've bought for myself:

Fenix E21 Flashlight (2xAA, 150/48 Lumens) - $32.45

Victorinox Swiss Army Champion Plus Pocket Knife - $29.99

Spyderco Resilience Black G-10 PlainEdge Knife - $39.14

Those 3 items add up to $101.58 but if you buy a flashlight you'll also need to buy batteries. I also bought a Fenix TK35 High Performance 820 Lumen Flashlight after being impressed by the Fenix E21.

Besides those items I bought a 1000mA car charger for my phone to replace a cheap 500mA charger, two 4GB SD (not SDHC) cards for use in my '07 Audi, a 5x7 Maxpedition Fatty Pocket Organizer, and a Philips Sonicare HX9332/05 DiamondClean Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush

I've carried a Kershaw, I then went to Spyderco. But I found I didn't use them enough to carry them everyday. I've been carrying this Swiss army knife lately though and I love it. I use it almost every day. It's a little heavy, but I've gotten used to it. The Swiss army knife you linked to is great too. I just like the can opener and cork screw. There's a needle in there too which come in handy more than you would think.

These knives are a Buck Whittaker 437T Revolution at the top, and a Kershaw Chill. Recently I have expanded my collection of Kershaw knives. I have the Brawler and the [Lifter] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00ILFLBYK/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1523470233&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=kershaw+lifter+knife) as well. I think they are a great value for the comparatively low price point. They come very sharp, don't have frills, and they just work.

A couple months ago I hit gold in my search to reacquire a knife I lost as a kid. My Buck Whittaker 437T fetish was finally acted upon, and I found two on Ebay. Well, I was searching for something else, and I found another one! This one is black. So, now I have three - blue, black, and green. My search for more is always ongoing, but I'm not seeking them out any longer. All three of them have been disassembled, oiled, cleaned, and sharpened. They are in tip top working order.

[My collection of Buck Revolutions] (https://imgur.com/UBK6DI0),
[Kershaw Chill with a lighter for scale] (https://imgur.com/9pD5kpH)

Thanks for looking.

A little late to this thread, but I prefer the Victorinox Swiss Army Climber II Pocket Knife over the regular Classic SD version. As an engineer, there's a few more tools out there to help me out, but it's not as bulky as some other ones.

I think it's just as important to balance function than to look stylish and save pocket space, especially with multi-purpose knives.

Backpacking or just camping? If just camping bring two knives, one big and one small. I find that it's a real pleasure to have a very large, heavy knife when camping. You don't get to use knives like that every day and you can use them to their fullest in a camp setting, especially if you're into bushcrafty stuff. Or think about a camp axe and smaller knife combo. Beyond the scope of your question but I'd like to have a... Condor camp axe and Mora companion or ESEE Izula PLUS a good multitool... for camping.

That one seems like this but with just a blade side guard. I prefer the look with both. Is there any functional difference that you see?

Also good luck with the DMV. I've been putting my visit off...

Great knife. If you like it, also take a look at the classic Morakniv.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004D6H1WC?cache=486f0461b6a26021478bd889c8e14c6b&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70&qid=1409945869&sr=8-14#ref=mp_s_a_1_14

I got this model, but with finger guards, as a first knife for my kids. Sharp as anything out of the box, scandi grind that is very easy to sharpen. But you need to be a bit careful with the carbon steel to avood rust.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003Z5CTV0?cache=b142d0ad6d37d758919e95a32aed3933&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70&qid=1409946487&sr=8-12#ref=mp_s_a_1_12

The Cold Steel Tuff-Lite Mini is by far the best small knife I've ever used. Holds an edge well, beefy lock, solid ergos. I highly recommend it.

You need to consider a third: http://www.amazon.com/Victorinox-53935-SwissTool-RS/dp/B00004YVB0

I have the Leatherman Wave and love it but if I had to do it again, I might consider the SwissTool even though it doesn't have the screw bits because the SwissTool has the greatest build quality of all three.

I did extensive research on this myself. The main problem for me was not finding a good knife, but finding one that came with an actual carryable sheath. Otherwise, you'll end up spending well over $100 for the knife when factoring in a custom sheath (which I am obviously too cheap to do).

I ended up getting the CRKT Sting: https://www.amazon.com/Sting-Fixed-Blade-Knife-Sheath/dp/B00180CYFA/

It is a solid, full-tang knife that came very sharp. The sheath and strap system it comes with is not perfect, but actually allows you to put the knife on your calf right after buying it, unlike most "boot knives" that just come with a shitty belt clip. Is there a better knife out there? Absolutely, but I think this one is the best value for a sub $100 knife.

The Farmer or the Pioneer are also good choices. I have the Farmer and it's like the Camper II minus the corkscrew and small blade. It's also got the aluminum side plates which are much better for grip and durability IMO. The Pioneer is a great size for EDC but for camping I think the added saw blade on the Farmer is worth it.

Kershaw, CRKT, SOG, Even one of the Chinese Ka-Bars would most likely be better quality for the same price.

Try one of these, I think you’ll be very happy:
https://www.amazon.com/Kershaw-Blackwashed-Stainless-Deep-Carry-Pocketclip/dp/B00ILFLBYK/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=kershaw+tactical+folding+knife&qid=1572238799&sprefix=kershaw+tactical&sr=8-4


https://www.amazon.com/Kershaw-Military-Style-Pocketknife-Black-Oxide-Spearpoint/dp/B07RWR1L44/ref=mp_s_a_1_8?dchild=1&keywords=kershaw+tactical+folding+knife&qid=1572238844&sprefix=kershaw+tactical&sr=8-8

https://www.amazon.com/CRKT-M16-01KZ-Folding-Pocket-Knife/dp/B001C63SP0


https://www.amazon.com/SOG-Folding-Knife-Pocket-Partially/dp/B0073H2P2O/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?keywords=sog+folding+knife&qid=1572238929&sprefix=sog+folding&sr=8-4

Victorinox Cadet. Its 30 dollars, it's a knife and it's a multitool. The silver metal Alox scales look classy, and on top of all that this thing is Amazing.

Lastly it has a place where you can engrave peoples names on the other side of the scale.

I carry a Victorinox Cadet. I had one as a kid, and though itried a number of different knives when I got older, I found that the Cadet offered the best combination of utility and easy of carry, especially when paired with a suspension clip to hang down the inside of the pocket.

I wasn't aware of the Kershaw Filter before you mentioning it had me Google it. Looks very Chronicles of Riddick. Personally not super into it, but a knife is better than no knife.

You might find having one of these pry bar tools would be better off being used for the random gum scraping and box opening and whatnot. Doesn't have to be that one, there's variations with a lot of overlap depending on which one of those you find.

I don't know if you're still considering a fixed blade or not, but I really like my CRKT M.U.K. which I just learned was discontinued. I bought mine for like $12 on Amazon several years ago. It's meant to be used around water and used on seafood prep with MUK standing for Marine Utility Knife. That link lists a black handled MUK for $35 on Ebay. Not quite the bargain it was, but still cheaper than a lot of knives! You can also use it as self defense, though I wouldn't recommend that. Your Filter or some equally affordable knife would probably be best since that knife may be taken away from you, damaged, lost, etc. Hell, you might just need to use it and then throw it in a river lol.

To be used axe? For wood?

I have the SOG Tomahawk here but maybe you'd prefer the SOG Camp?

Hultafors makes a very good knife that you can get for under $15 on Amazon. They are Swedish knife and tool maker that has been around a long time. They aren't well known in the US but, I think, they make excellent products. Here is a link to the knife I have: http://www.amazon.com/Hultafors-Craftmans-Knife-Heavy-Duty-Gk/dp/B004O9MIE4

and here is a link to their website: http://www.hultafors.com/

Oh awesome I'm in! Thank you!

Heck yeah, there are some really nice survival/combat knives in that collection.

I'll go through and post the ones I recognize:

Ontario SP5 Bowie - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000MD69XM/

Cold Steel Recon Scout - https://www.amazon.com/COLD-STEEL-Recon-Scout-Steel/dp/B06XN5TLCK/

Cold Steel Trailmaster Bowie - https://www.amazon.com/Cold-Steel-Trail-Master-Bowie/dp/B00AJM8GW8/

Ka-Bar Tanto Combo blade - https://www.knifecenter.com/item/KA1245/ka-bar-1245-tanto-fighting-knife-combo-blade-kraton-g-handle-glass-filled-nylon-sheath

Ontario Marine Raider Bowie - https://www.amazon.com/Ontario-Spec-Marine-Raider-Bowie/dp/B001BMTZSY

Cold Steel OSI subhilt fighter - https://www.knifecenter.com/item/CS39LSSS/Cold-Steel-OSI-Subhilt-Fighter-8-14-inch-Single-Edge-Blade

Cold Steel Bushman - http://www.ltspecpro.com/Product/95BUSK/BUSHMAN_W_SURVIVAL_SHEATH.aspx

SOG Seal Team Elite - https://www.amazon.com/SOG-Elite-Fixed-Blade-SE37-N/dp/B000Q9BFZO

Cold Steel Master Hunter - https://www.knifecenter.com/item/CS36JSK/cold-steel-36jsk-master-hunter-vg-1-san-mai-iii-blade-kray-ex-handle

Ontario FF6 (I think?) - https://www.amazon.com/Ontario-8106-Freedom-Fighter-Knife/dp/B0018LTY66

Gerber BMF - Holy fuck - I will seriously pay you to pick that one up for me if the knife is in good shape. I am not kidding. Let's talk.

*Edit: Now that I have some more time, here are more:

Cold Steel Recon Tanto - https://www.amazon.com/Cold-Steel-Kraton-Handle-Secure-Ex/dp/B000BSY99Y

Ontario SP46 skinner - https://www.amazon.com/Ontario-SP46-Gen-Knife-Black/dp/B003C1BS64

Gerber Mark II - https://www.amazon.com/Gerber-Mark-II-Knife-22-01874/dp/B0017KXAGS

Cold Steel Peace Keeper II - http://www.ebay.com/itm/252823698647 (that one went for $195 just last month because it is discontinued!)

As someone else mentions below, other than those, stick with the brand name items and historical stuff.

I have to say, whoever this collector was, he and I have very similar taste in knives!

Here you go:

http://www.amazon.com/Hultafors-380020-GK-Handle-Sheath/dp/B004O9MIE4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1405179429&sr=8-1&keywords=hultafors+gk

It's a larger and more sturdy version of their original craftman knife. Also, the spine has a sharp 90 degree angle so it can be used as a firesteel striker. I was amazed how well it worked as a striker as it shaves of huge shavings from my firesteel that sparkeles for several seconds which makes it a lot easier to make fire than with the standard striker crap that use to follow the firesteels.

Back when I was trying to choose a good shovel it was a debate between the Cold Steel Special Forces Shovel and the Chinese Military Issue shovel.

I ended up going with the Cold Steel version for a couple reasons: one, price. I just can't justify spending almost $100 on a shovel. Two, complexity. The Cold Steel version is simple, extremely rugged, lightweight, and just works. It's tough as hell, does the job it's supposed to do, and I really have no complaints. It's based off the Russian Spetsnaz shovel. The Chinese version just looks like it's too complex for its own good.

I'd really recommend the Cold Steel one unless you have a lot of disposable income and don't mind the problem inherent to more moving parts.

Other options include the Glock entrenching tool,the popular SOG entrenching tool and the US Military entrenching tool.

I'd still recommend Cold Steel's offering over all of these.

I'll second this, the only difference is that I bought the stainless steel version. I got it after reading LOTS of reviews about various knives, and basically just wanted to get a basic, good knife that didn't cost a ton. I have been quite happy with this one, and will probably get the carbon steel version sometime in the near future too.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A2GLZS8

Demo video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HiYmk1sBqCo

I don't own one yet, but it is by far the best one I've found from researching.

A pocket knife is useful for some basic cutting tasks like opening packaging and cutting some zipties or such. Fixed blade knives are much more durable and can cut branches and are capable to handle a higher variety of tasks as well as typically having a better grip and much less likely to have issues when under hard work.

I'd recommend a Morakniv ; they're cheap, proven reliable, good factory edge, very durable, and lightweight. It's a great option if you're not super into knives but want a cheap one to just toss in the jeep and forget about until you need it.

perhaps a wharncliffe style blade? They are easy to maintain and great for utility tasks. here are a few pretty decent wharncliffes. crkt spew. http://www.amazon.com/Columbia-River-Knife-2388-S-P-E-W/dp/B006SK0SP8
Cold steel mini tuff lite. http://www.amazon.com/Cold-Steel-Mini-Plain-Knife/dp/B004MNAKYM/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1335480812&sr=1-1
folts minimalist. http://www.amazon.com/Columbia-River-Knife-2385-Minimalist/dp/B001QFJ76G/ref=sr_1_sc_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1335480840&sr=1-1-spell
kershaw needs work. http://www.amazon.com/Kershaw-Injection-Molded-Polyimide-Sandvik-Stainless-Steel/dp/B001EC4RTI/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1335480867&sr=1-1
I own all of these knives but the kershaw and I have been eyeballing that one.

For travelling I usually pack a SAK Farmer and/or a small multitool (such as the Gerber Dime).

Reason being they are small, relatively light, people friendly (legal) and have additional tools which are useful on the road (screwdriver and a bottle opener get the most use for me).

To follow up a bit, the knife itself is essentially a Kershaw Lifter/1302. It's hefty, and sturdy with a normal tanto blade instead of the curved one on the lifter. Same framelock design, except there is a lanyard/cord opening at the bottom of the handle. The assist is a beast on this thing, and locks into place hard. I'm impressed for $11. The little flashlight is also bright as hell, and the multi-tool has a line/web cutter, screwdriver w/ jimping for grip, bottle opener, and what looks like a second attempt at a bottle opener (but with sharpening could easily double as a fish hook). My only gripe is the clip isn't reversible but this thing is so hefty I couldn't really see it as an EDC anyway. But def a good little hiking/bugout bag knife.

Y'all are dangerous. This came from just a little bit of browsing this sub and some searching and review reading and whatnot. Amazon links for convenience:

Leatherman Crater c33Tx

Kershaw Leek

Schrade SCHF9 Extreme Survival Knife

CRKT 2020 AG Russell Sting

Any advice or substitutions anybody care to offer? I think for the money this is a pretty damn fine set of 4 knives. The Leatherman might get some funny looks but I had its younger brother for many years and it would probably replace my current EDC (Kershaw Skyline)

Edit: Will definitely take lots of pictures when I pull the trigger.

Haha nice! I'm planning on getting all the colors of the Sandvik version!

Agreed. I'm not a knife enthusiast by no means, but I was in a situation where I refused to give up my old Leatherman Wave, but needed a good blade so I picked up a Morakniv Companion and love it. 4 oz with the hard plastic sheath.

EDIT: I should also note that I cannot be trusted with folding knives, from experience.

The Morakniv brand of knives are extremely high quality for the price.

I have a stainless, a carbon steel and a coated carbon steel. I like the coated the most, but when I got some rust on my carbon, I took it off with steel wool and 'blued' it under my gas range. It's now exotic iridescent blue and purple colors, but it doesn't rust anymore. I didn't care because it cost me 12 dollars.

The coated was around 40 dollars I think...I use this one primarily when hiking, mushroom hunting or wildcrafting / digging in dirt. It's great. It's orders of magnitude a better, lighter, sturdier, handier knife than any of the clunky US marine, bowie, gerbie, honking, boneheaded bad designed knifes out of the US; also with swedish quality steel and lower price.

Ive used these for cooking, gardening and foraging / whittling / and bushcraft. I cannot say better things about Morakniv. Sure, there may be better knives but not for the price.

In that pricerange I'd spend the extra $10-$15 and get a Becker BK2 instead. Everyone that uses them seems to love them. I don't use one personally because it seems a little oversized, but I've handled them and they have really solid construction.

If you want my tool recommendations, personally, I use the ESEE-4, Gransfors-Bruks Wildlife Hatchet and Tramontina 24" Machete combo. Three tools to do just about anything.

I don't know what your girlfriend is really into, but the Swiss army cadet in silver alox (http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0007QCOEC) is a perfect first pocket knife for most women. There's even a little spot that you could get initials engraved on the one side.
Rather than a big scary endura, my girl really liked the different tool options on the Cadet. Just food for thought.

The Cold Steel Mini Tuff Lite would be the ultimate woodworking knife at that price.

The Ka-Bar Bob Dozier Folding Hunter is also a good choice for an inexpensive EDC knife.

Edit: the Knife Recommendation Guide in the sidebar has good suggestions too: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wAeE0b8k5WyF0UY8XTfa9vcurwJDL7od1xzk0Cr3v9I/edit

Try this this and this . I can vouch for all three. Love the tomahawk.

Hultafors Heavy Duty is a bit more robust than a Mora, but they're both good.

On a completely unrelated note I was looking at picking one of these up: http://www.amazon.com/SOG-Specialty-Knives-Tactical-Tomahawk/dp/B000PICTYC/ref=pd_bxgy_hi_img_b?tag=reddit2-20

Looks like they're really easy to throw if you look on Youtube.

CRKT Sting was the only thing that came to mind as an ankle knife. I think a neck knife would be easier to access. There are plenty of very good neck knives with kydex sheaths that could work. I personally don't recommend using a knife in a defensive situation, I would rather carry a concealed firearm.

I got a Mora Companion in stainless steel for $11. I had to pick a bright color and got it when it was on sale to get it at that price point.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EAL1090/

I like the bright color anyway, I won't lose it. Check to see which color is which price. You can get it in carbon steel too if you prefer the constant maintenance.

Modifications: see the sub I linked to. I wrapped my neon sheath with some paracord, tucked in a ferro rod, and then covered the whole thing with a slice of bike inner-tube (great emergency tinder, burns when wet, and you can make "ranger bands" as needed from it too.) The inner tube cuts out most of the neon, leaving just enough not to lose it in the bush.

I've found the Ontario Sp10 Raider to be an excellent axe replacemet in a pinch as well, and it's even cheaper than the Becker (and slightly heavier).

Could you swing this? It's a bit over your budget, but well worth it.

I like the SOG tomahawk, not too expensive, sturdy construction. Also, it looks really, really cool.
https://www.amazon.com/SOG-Tactical-Tomahawk-F01TN-CP-Hardcased/dp/B000PICTYC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1519450584&sr=8-1&keywords=sog+tomahawk

Just get a simple kershaw knife. They're cheap, but they last a pretty long time. I use this one: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ILFLBYK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_2lOSybF27PJQP

None of the above. I would suggest you get a Morakniv such as a Companion and use it before you buy anything else.
https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Stainless-4-1-Inch/dp/B00EF2RUD4

Best $13 you will ever spend.

KaBar Big Brother

Ontario Marine Raider

Ontario Freedom Fighter

Here's a great knife that's a bit different from the others posted here:

Victorinox Cadet

Morakniv Companion and Buck 119 are awesome choices.

https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Stainless-4-1-Inch/dp/B00EF2RUD4

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000EHWWJQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1502984683&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=buck+119+knife&dpPl=1&dpID=315rFijBsPL&ref=plSrch

This is spot on. On trips where we compete to go light, no one brings one, and we have great fires still. As hatchets go, I've found that the full size SOG is pretty freaking killer. But like thesneakymonkey says, if you bring one, bring one that's worth it's salt. Don't get the shorter SOG Fasthawk. Go full size. My buddy schooled me on how to use one if you must. Don't chop directly into the tree, the less perpendicular the angle the better. Have a wide 12"-16" cutting area, you'll eat through more wood faster. The cut will be ugly compared to a clean saw cut, but who cares, you're burning it anyways.

A good axe handle has different properties than a good saw whatever. The thing were you put the sawblade in is probably not very comfortable to grip. The axe blade makes the saw unnecessarily unbalanced and heavy. Speaking of imbalance, all that stuff would make it difficult to properly balance either the saw or the axe, not to speak of both at the same time. The saw blade might not be a standard size and thus hard/expensive to replace. In a car or similar, most places where you could store this could also hold a hatched and a saw of that size. This axe has roughly similar dimensions at half the weight, so it's not great at optimizing carrying weight on foot either, even if you bring a saw as well. If you bring two separate tools, you can hand one to your buddy and you can work at the same time.

'Poorly' might not be the best term, it's more of a 'could be better' situation.

IMHO a saw blade is almost as important as a knife blade.

This is the one I got for the survival kit in my vehicle. It's big and chunky for a pocket though.

This one is more pocket size and a classic that a lot of survival guys like.

I trust SOG.

Yeah, I don't have one of these yet but they come highly recommended, particularly for the price.

www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00EF2RUD4/ref=pd_gwm_simh_10?pf_rd_p=eeda26e3-c818-411e-91c7-e824b2883986&pf_rd_s=blackjack-personal-2&pf_rd_t=Gateway&pf_rd_i=mobile&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=G5DYEF7YXXGTW88C83K8&pf_rd_r=G5DYEF7YXXGTW88C83K8&pf_rd_p=eeda26e3-c818-411e-91c7-e824b2883986

Pick your flavor based on requirements.

Ok... I'm gonna try and look exclusively on amazon, because it seems pretty representative of prices elsewhere and it would take too long to look everywhere. I'll work in UK money, since that's where I live, and I'll convert it to USD at the end.

• Archery - £23
  
  
• Hatchet - £10
  
  
• Bowie Knife - £80
  
  
• Slingshot - £3
  
  
• Small and large BBs - £11
  
  
• Flint and Steel - £1
  
  
• Collapsible Fishing Rod - £10
  
  
• First Aid Kit - £17
  
  
• E-Tool - £60
  
  
• Hiking Boots - £65
  
  
• Socks x 5 - £10 x 2 = £20
  
  
• Underpants - £25
  
  
• T-Shirt x 10 - £3 x 10 = £30
  
  
• Climbing Rope - £37
  
  
• Twine - £8
  
  
• Jeans x 3 - £20 x 3 = £60
  
  
• Duct Tape - £6
  
  
• Matches - £3
  
  
• Water Purification Tablets - £4
  
  
• Toothbrush x 30 - £3 x 30 = £90
  
  
• Gloves - £10
  
  
• Plant ID Book - £23
  
  
• Guille Suit - £39
  
  
• Beef Jerky isn't on Amazon, but I'd hazard a guess at around £20 for enough to keep you going.
  
  
• Also not on amazon, but 50 smokes would add up to around £25.
  
  
• Snare Wire - £24
  
  
• Hiking Stick - £16
  
  
• Compass - £2
  
  

• Magniying Glass - £8
  

  
  

  All of these items add up to £730, or $1040, so, unfortunately, just over $1000.
  

  
  

  (

I'm a hunter [this] (http://www.amazon.com/SOG-Specialty-Knives-Tactical-Tomahawk/dp/B00438RI7S/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=26NERMJV5G0JB&coliid=I3TP35ZWCV5DQ1) would help me train for survival with much less materials!

Thanks for doing this, I'm in for the Farmer too: https://smile.amazon.com/Victorinox-Farmer-Pocket-Silver-Ribbed/dp/B0007QCOO2/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1493782671&sr=8-7&keywords=victorinox+alox

Thanks for doing this. I'd like [this one.] (http://www.amazon.com/Victorinox-Cadet-Alox/dp/B0007QCOEC/?tag=parametrek-20)

This would make Friday even better.

http://www.amazon.com/Victorinox-Farmer-Alox/dp/B0007QCOO2/?tag=parametrek-20

Thanks for being so generous
https://smile.amazon.com/Victorinox-Farmer-Pocket-Silver-Ribbed/dp/B0007QCOO2/

The traditional red scales on your typical SAK can crack over time. If you want to get something a little more BIFL, I would go with one of the ALOX models, like this.

I've always been partial to Victorinox. The price is really dependent on what tools you want. Anywhere from a few dollars for the really small ones to $20-30 for a mid-size (that would have most/all of the tools I listed earlier) to $45 for a Swiss Champ Plus. Of course, there's this as well, but my pockets aren't that big.

Well, here we have a modern tomohawk with a composite handle http://www.amazon.com/SOG-Specialty-Knives-Tactical-Tomahawk/dp/B000PICTYC/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1319084580&sr=8-10

and also one with some tools http://www.amazon.com/Becis-Gifts-12847-Hatchet-Multi/dp/B002ZENH18/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1319084580&sr=8-1

I have cash as well as

these knives http://imgur.com/a/dUiyM#kX37gWQ
and this flashlight http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007RB82CS/ref=oh_details_o00_s02_i00?ie=UTF8

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00004YVB0/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

this multitool

Spyderco dragonfly 2 superblue

Blackwash composite leek

Cool https://www.amazon.com/Victorinox-Cadet-Alox/dp/B0007QCOEC/?tag=parametrek-20

Big Skinny Metro Wallet ($24.95)

Timex Weekender ($24.42)

Victorinox Cadet ($31.99)

ThruNite Ti3 ($13.95)

Pilot G2 Pens ($3.83)

Total: $99.14

I didn't consider tax here, though.

Hard mode should be using Canadian retailers and Canadian dollars. I just used American Amazon here.

Hear hear. My brain seems to have only a three item limit of things it can consistently keep track of, and those slots are occupied by my wallet, my phone, and my keys. Every time I've tried to add a knife to the mix, it's lost or seized by the TSA within a couple of months. An inexpensive knife like the Ozark trail gets the job done, and doesn't hurt so much when it disappears. I also like these knives:

Spyderco Byrd Cara Cara2 ($20):

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001EBXH04

Mora fixed blade knife ($20):

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009XDR0NK

Maxam Sailors Multi-Tool ($15):

https://www.amazon.com/Maxam-SKRULE-Sailors-Tool/dp/B003COEDMW

Tim Ferriss recommends this one: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000PICTYC/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2OZ0QUSC4SOQX&coliid=I3S42F3A5KK5G0

I have been considering buying it for a while now, and it is only 24 oz. Apparently a lot of people use it for throwing

I stuck this one after about 3 tries. It gets good reviews from BladeHQ for camping/survival too

Cold Steel Natchez Bowie if you want something top-of-the-line.

Ontario Marine Raider if you want something a little cheaper!

On Amazon for $80.

Here's the knife on amazon ($89.90 incl. shipping) and here are the scales ($75 incl. U.S. shipping).

Total price: $164.90 incl. shipping.

Classic Alox is $22 on amazon or the cadet is about $30 and comes in silver, red, or black

Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/Mora-Sweden-Knives-Morakniv-Classic/dp/B003Z5CTV0/ref=sr_1_17?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1330820510&sr=1-17

What about a marlin spike, like this? The marlin spike is the spike on the far right. It's normally used for digging at knots in rope that are too stuck. It's pointy enough to be an interesting sensation, without being so pointy that it'll break the skin (unless you really go crazy).

I've also seen this sort of thing, but never used it.

Turns out its Chinese military https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NhqxkI3xDYY

edit: http://www.amazon.com/Chinese-Military-Shovel-Emergency-WJQ-308/dp/B00A2GLZS8

Kershaw EDC Emerson - $26

Griffin tool - $18

SOG tomahawk - $30

http://www.amazon.com/Benchmade-550HG-Griptilian-Pardue-Folding/dp/B000Q9BOF0/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1397046789&sr=8-4&keywords=benchmade+griptilian

http://www.amazon.com/Benchmade-550HG-Griptilian-Pardue-Folding/dp/B000Q9BOF0/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1397046789&sr=8-4&keywords=benchmade+griptilian

For the curious

I got this for Christmas! http://www.amazon.com/Columbia-River-Knife-Tool-2020/dp/B00180CYFA My first fixed-blade.

Mora Companion knife with sheath weighs ~5.3oz

https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Stainless-4-1-Inch/dp/B00EF2RUD4

http://www.amazon.com/Benchmade-550HG-Griptilian-Pardue-Folding/dp/B000Q9BOF0

I never travel without my Victorinox pocket knife (swiss army knife). In fact it's the only reason I have to check a suitcase. It's $50 on Amazon and does everything I ever need. I reckon I could build a house with this thing!

Mora.

All the MORA's.

There you go

Here it is, get your secret Santa on $80 on Amazon

Here you go

And for some cheaper options

This appears to be the one. http://www.amazon.com/Chinese-Military-Shovel-Emergency-WJQ-308/dp/B00A2GLZS8

Amazon has them. You can probably find them cheaper elsewhere though. These have been around for a while.

http://www.amazon.com/Chinese-Military-Shovel-Emergency-WJQ-308/dp/B00A2GLZS8

I might get one for innawoods oper8ing

unf that recurve tanto.

Price is right too.

It’s this: Victorinox cadet

http://www.amazon.com/Victorinox-Swiss-Army-Cadet-Knife/dp/B014STZH9W

Here you are and it's only $29.79. There is another Sog T for a couple dollars less.

Go Chinese. Only time I'll ever say those words and mean it.

Cadet Swiss Army Knife?

The Ontario Marine Raider bowie is heavy enough to chop kindling and large enough to use as a small machete or short sword
https://www.amazon.com/Ontario-Spec-Marine-Raider-Bowie/dp/B001BMTZSY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1492702145&sr=8-1&keywords=ontario+marine+raider

Tomahawk-
http://www.amazon.com/SOG-Specialty-Knives-F01TN-CP-2-75-Inch/dp/B000PICTYC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1418925463&sr=8-1&keywords=tomahawk

Spear-
http://www.amazon.com/United-Cutlery-UC2961-Survival-Sheath/dp/B00ATUX7UG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1418925513&sr=8-1&keywords=spear

1.

2.

3.

Amazon

I never go anywhere without my Victorinox Champion Plus. It's the bulky model that has every tool except pliers.

An ER is one of the few places I don't think people should be carrying a knife, at least not one that's accessible. Still, a simple Swiss Army Knife dropped in your pocket isn't going to get grabbed by a psych patient and it's very handy.

About $80 on Amazon

Spyderco Tenacious

Saddleback Leather ID

Moleskin

Pilot G2

Victorinox Farmer

JVC Marshmellow

Timex Weekender

Forgiven Wristband

SanDisk 8GB flash drive

Aircraft Cable Keychain

Gum

Keys

Some beat up $5 dollar case

Galaxy S2

Get something thin, like this, put it in your jean's watch pocket and you'll hardly notice it.

Cold Steel 20MT Mini Tuff Lite Plain https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004MNAKYM/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_kOdQub1G794WP

Ive gotten used to one hans opening but might need 2 hands for some people. Comes in other neon colors too.

Or:

Spyderco Dragonfly2 Lightweight Black FRN PlainEdge Knife https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004GUL6IA/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_HRdQub0CW8JGJ

http://www.amazon.com/Chinese-Military-Shovel-Emergency-WJQ-308/dp/B00A2GLZS8

http://www.amazon.com/SOG-Specialty-Knives-Tactical-Tomahawk/dp/B000PICTYC/ref=pd_sxp_f_pt

Cadet

Classic Alox

I think this knife might be right up your ally.

http://www.amazon.com/Ontario-Spec-Marine-Raider-Bowie/dp/B001BMTZSY

Recently got this and love it, heavy duty, sharp, affordable http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000PICTYC/ref=pe_175190_21431760_M2T1_ST1_dp_2

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000Q9BOF0/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1464368966&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=benchmade+550hg&dpPl=1&dpID=41OOlPi4NCL&ref=plSrch

You can buy for $97.75 brand new without rounded tip and with a new pocket clip. Just saying.

Mora

I use one of these quite often, I think it's a similar type blade?

This one: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009KF4GG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Here is the list http://www.reddit.com/r/EDC/comments/2rhcqd/30mit_analyst_2015_update/cngp78m

Specifications
___

Watch: Seiko × Shinobu Ishigaki SARB065 "Cocktail Time"

Pen: Lamy Pico Ballpoint Pen, Chrome (L289)

Knife: Victorinox Swiss Army Cadet Knife


Wallet: Bellroy Micro Sleeve

Sorry it took me a while to get back to you. That's actually a bowie from Ontario Knife Company. You can get it here at ~$60.

I've had my eye on this CRKT for a while now. Boot knives are tough to pull off for the non-cowboy type.

If I just go bad ass I was thinking about this:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000PICTYC/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_yCyWtb083D5E7

Chinese Military Shovel Emergency Tools WJQ-308 Ver 2012 (Amazon)

I have one of these: REI waistpack in grey and black. I carry prescription sunglasses, case with earphones and usb cable, iPod Touch, wallet, checkbook, pens, eyedrops, AC & car adapter for cell phone, Moleskine Calendar, pepper spray, keys, all those damn cards every damn store gives you, and Swiss Army Knife in black. I don't usually carry into a store, but I'll pull out whatever I need. Call me a girl.

EDIT: I also carry a Swiss Army Knife Money Clip

I've actually been thinking that my truck needs a shovel... Hmm, wonder if I can find a way to get my hands on one o' them chinese supersholvels

e: oh hey

Fuck that's a lot for a shovel though. I'd have to spend on shipping too...

e2: No shipping here :D

A Tomahawk and a Machete to keep in your car in the case of a zombie apocalypse/to scare traffic.

I dance alot. At first I would get blisters but after years I've built up huge callouses on my feet.

One night awhile back I was drunk and my feet started to itch. I scratched at it but my skin was too thick to have any satisfaction. So, I did what any drunk man would do: found a knife and started shaving my callous. The dead skin would come off in flakes. Every stroke would send little bits flying off my foot and onto the ground. It felt glorious. After twenty minutes I looked down and noticed my floor looked like a woodshop. Deadskin everywhere. So, I did what any drunk man would do: Piled that shit up onto a piece of paper and took a picture of it.

I've been eyeing a couple different hatchets and small axes by Gransfors Bruks. They are expensive but from what I've read they are solid as hell.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000WIX6YC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_NCL.BbR6RFM06

That's what I've been looking at to carry with me.

>as the last one broke

You want a durable knife? Try cold steel.
BenchSnobs and snobberco, and every other "Hey buy my 599 dollar knife" person will say they're bad. However, none of them will do this:

https://youtu.be/Op6NJPI59Lo?t=3m10s




https://www.amazon.com/Cold-Steel-Micro-Tactical-Folder/dp/B006YBW82C/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1466206068&sr=1-2&keywords=cold+steel+pocket+knife&refinements=p_36%3A1253555011

https://www.amazon.com/Cold-Steel-Plain-Folder-Knife/dp/B006YBW6MY/ref=sr_1_3?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1466206068&sr=1-3&keywords=cold+steel+pocket+knife&refinements=p_36%3A1253555011


https://www.amazon.com/Cold-Steel-20MT-Mini-Plain/dp/B004MNAKYM/ref=pd_bxgy_200_img_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=6XQ1NSW20TSEKE9WKAYM

Name: Liam

Gender: M

Age: 27

Primary Weapon: Remington 700

Secondary Weapon: Glock 19, this baby

Traits: Blames self for everything that goes wrong, ever.

Job: IT, whiskey consumer

Notes: Slow to anger but homicidal when enraged. Tough guy persona is a defense mechanism. Favors mulitcam pants.

> Bennett carried a Sog brand tomahawk, and waved it around in the air during the argument.

https://www.amazon.com/SOG-Tactical-Tomahawk-F01TN-CP-Hardcased/dp/B000PICTYC

>According to police, she swung the axe at a door of the house, then threw the axe at the victim from a short distance. She missed him, but struck a television nearby. She then rushed at the victim with the tomahawk, but the victim was able to take control and grab it. He hid the weapon in his garage.

You can have this back after you are responsible enough to use it!