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Good info!! I wish I would have had this video 10 years ago before I got addicted to knives and started spending all my money on different knives because I had no clue what I was looking for 😅 Now I am a crazy knife collector with no money.
I just purchased a Bark River Bushcraft Scout in CPM-Magnacut! Not necessarily pertinent to this video, but I just had to tell someone! Plus, I know the DBK boys will appreciate such a dope buy
I think I have mentioned my favourite knife for outdoor activities before and it's a knife I have had since my late teens or by 20 yrs old at most. It is a Grohmann Carbon Steel model #3 or Canadian Army model Russell Belt Knife. It is easy to sharpen and holds a very fine edge (easily touched with a strop) and because of it's overall design was made to fit the hand and focus the blade so that the knife becomes an extension of you while doing a task. It is equally at home boning out and carving up a Moose as making tent pegs for our wall tent. For the past 35 years it has performed any task asked of it and done it without issue or drama. Is it as tough or durable as say, CPM 3V steel or even D2,...No, but there is absolutely nothing wrong with a high carbon steel blade so long as you treat it like a living object that needs care and attention while and after use, no big deal. Would I love to have a Benchmade Leuku and Puukko, Absolutely, or a Joker Nessmuk or Nomad 6.5, again Yes! but all these things cost money I don't need to spend right now because I have a few good serviceable knives, but perhaps someday I will pull the trigger and purchase a new set for use outdoors. Now I'm not knocking any knife or any steel, just use what you are comfortable with. Mora and Marttiini make some fantastic low cost knives that will faithfully do whatever task you ask of it (within reason) asking only to be touched up and if a carbon blade has been purchased a light oiling after each use or sharpening. Also, try and handle the knife before buying, that means going into a store, talking to the clerk and putting your hands on a few knives to see how they feel and if they fit the purpose you need them for. For the most part you aren't just buying a blade or a handle, you are looking for a companion to work with you on your adventures. These are my tools that I take with me camping or Hunting, A Husqvarna full size axe 32", A campsize Estwing axe 26" (or so), A Coldsteel Kukri (about 18") A cheap Bolo Machete that lives on my Quad, along with the Husky Axe and my Knives, My Grohmann #3, a Blades of Alaska Yukon in D2, a Bow saw with a wood and a meat/bone blade and utensils for camp and cooking. I dare say if the Apocalypse ever did happen I could load up my quad and a trailer with enough food and fuel along with my wall tent and stove and find a nice place close to a spring or small river to make a pretty nice place to live out the rest of my days, I'd need a dog for Bear detection etc. and a cat for rodent control in the tent. Actually, that sounds pretty good!! Cheers from Canada!! - Dave
I also love my carbon blades! You just can't beat the other properties when you leave chromium out of the equation! (And you can easily and very quickly fix the edge and sharpen it back up in no time! I always say stainless blades are for people who don't like caring (or forget to care) for their knives.
1. Firemaking. 2. Shelter building. 3. Trap making. 4. Fish and game processing. The qualities of the knife which suit those priorities in that order are most important to me. I have a Morakniv Garberg in high-carbon steel with the ferro rod holder and sharpener attachment. I also have a Fallkniven DC4 in my kit for it.
The search for the perfect knife is like the search for the holy grail! My collection is growing and growing, but the more knives I've got, the more I know what I'm looking for in the perfect knife. And still I have not found it. For a knife nerd, happiness is in the hunt for the perfect knife!👍
The advantage of convex is the smooth single bevel and therefore less resistance in the cut. Everything else depends moreso on the overall geometry of the blade (thicker for splitting wood etc.).
Just another reason why I'm looking at a william Collins multi grind knife..checks everything I want a knife to do..love to see you guys test one of those!
Yes! Yes! Yes! First, love all your videos. But... This was a short but very comprehensive course on all the aspects of what the individual should look for. The knife is like a woman. It is very personal on what makes you happy! This one you guys nailed it. Respect from Florida 🌴
There are so many knives out there that I don't look for one specific thing, but rather, the knife that has all features I prefer for whatever role I intend it to fill. Or, sometimes, I just like the knife.
I think edge retention is a must however 1080 - 1095 has worked for a very long time even though you sharpen much more often. You can easily re-press/form your sheath around the knife to give it much better grip retention.
11:33 Mikkie B has a hard time clipping his Mora onto his belt. I never put mine on my belt anymore. I find they do really well clipped to the outside of my front pants pocket. 🤓
'Harro, knife people'. Grind, handle, steel-type would be my Top 3. Props on the Condor Therasaur recommendation. Scandi, no-hotspot-handle, decent-enough steel, for about $40,- you've got a splendid bushcraft knive.
Hello DBK .. I am your subscriber from Indonesia, if you don't mind, could you review the AITOR COMMANDO Knife from AITOR COMPANY, because one of the special forces in my country still uses the knife from AITOR to this day. Thank You
I think the grind is most important because all knives can be touched up regarding sharpness, but the grind determines what tasks the knife is capable of and what they excel at.
Any grind is fundamentally capable of any task - keep in mind that we at one point in time used sharp rocks. Every shape/size isn’t capable of of every task, however; you can’t drill small holes with a meat cleaver; you can’t chop wood with a spoon carver.
@@whengrapespop5728 getting something done and it being the right tool for the job. I’ve carved spoons with a hatchet and I’ve done food prep with a thick scandi grind, but I wouldn’t recommend either.
handel is everything, comfort, safety, prefornens, endurance, styling, grip. then comes steel, then comes grind. just my opinion. great vid gus as always.. GROETJES!!!!
Gotta say the handle is the most important feature. It’s what connects your body to the tool. Everything else is context sensitive- the steel type, the blade length, the grind, the sheath all depend on the environment and intended use.
Very nice overview, for bushcrafting I love my BRK Gunny Scandi in Desert Ironwood the most, and like you said, it is due to the haptics of the handle, it just feels great ... and Scandi in CPM 3V is nice too :) cheers
Mikkie could sell anything. I've had bespoke on and off since 2015. Aside from an Opinel no.8 and a Craighill key chain knife; they have only ever sent shit knives (titan neck knife, black forge outdoor chef knife, and a cutting board/knife combo that was the most god awful knife I've ever used). They do have some really cool things aside from their knives. Almost reactivated my subscription. I carry a folder 90% of the time. A smooth open with a great handle is what I personally enjoy. I've been carrying a Tactile Rockwall I just received last week. It is my first knife with Magnacut. Hoping you guys give one the destruction test soon so I can validate my purchase(or cry about). Your videos are awesome. Thanks to you both.
DBK Bros - Great Video! Nice summary and good to hear your analysis of all of these aspects that contribute to a good knife. Really hard to pick the most important aspect, because, even if that one aspect is perfect, if the others aren't - the blade won't work out well. For example, great steel with poorly designed handle and blade grind - fail. You can do that for all the aspects you mentioned. I think the point is, you need to have all (or as many as possible) of these key aspects in balance to have a great knife. Maybe if one aspect is off, you might be willing to compromise, such as awesome design, grind, and steel, but the handle is a bit uncomfortable - I might be willing to tolerate the handle. This REALLY IS a great video for beginners to advanced to watch and think about - THANKS!
Good video thanks. I got a kukhri survival knife and the handle is crap so I never use it. I have over the years purchased a few known brand expensive blades and never regretted it. Cheers Dave 🇳🇱 🇳🇿
Will you consider adding text in the editing of videos showing the name of whatever knife you take out for anyone interested in the knives you show in your videos? Like if Mikkie takes out a Scandi Gunny, in the bottom left it'd show "Gunny Scandi 3V - Bark River" for like 4 seconds.
I´ve been using an old Morakniv classic no2 for the past 5 years for bushcraft tasks, and i have to agree, the price is nothing if you know what you want from you knife (and the handle holy shit, it is sooo important) great video lads keep it up
I used to sell knives at a small gift shop. Not the craziest collection to choose from but not bad either. The usual algorithm for suggesting was almost always like this: 1) Have anything caught your attention already? 2) What's your budget? 3) What for you need a knife? Depending on customer request I usually can filter in and out options from our selection. I remember a man who spent at least 20-30 min trying/holding different knives from my selection, until he made his choice. And you know what? A few weeks later he came back with a positive feedback and thanked me for being patient with him... and bought another knife. :) So I can stand with design being most important aspect... if we factor in the handle as part of a design.
Hello! Thank You for nice video! I thing You miss 2 very important thing: 1. Blade length - I always have this choosing problem, because you dont need 150 mm blade for carving and 80 mm blade not good for food prep or battoning 2. Blade thickness - it is can be added to grind section, because 5 mm low scandi not good (usually) and 3 mm full convex is to weak for battoning (usually)
It's amazing the influence and information I've gotten form DBK, Prepared Mind 101, Gideon's Tactical, Nick Shabazz and Chiorboys Cutlery. I learned EVERYTHING from you guys. Thank you all so much!
Greetings fellow knife enthusiasts, another well made episode. Thought provoking and informative as usual. Why we love knives is very personal and maybe a little disturbing to others who don't get it. I have more blades than a field of grass but always room for more.
For me, the most important is the aspect. Of the blade. Of the handle. Of the all knife. After it's the steel quality. And of course, what it 's for. Edc, bushcraft, survival, defence, collection ... ^^
You couldn't have timed this release any better! I've got a good friend who reached out asking about knives for the first time recently.... now I can send him this video before he makes any classic first knife mistakes!
Mikkie looks very beautiful in his skirt of knives!! I agree with Maarten, handle is so important. It's like a pair of comfy shoes, you'll just pick it up more.
Thank you. Very informative video. I just wish more knife retailers were in my area, because I need to actually hold the knife to get a good feeling of it. I totally agree, if the knife handle isn’t comfortable, I’m not going to use it.
Your conclusion is exactly the reason I decided on a joker nordico: handle is ultra comfortable, no hot spots whatsoever, awesome scandi grind and a proven blade shape (spear point). They have a sharp spine, great handle materials, the leather sheaths are awesome (but would love a kydex for it tbh), knives are handmade in spain and they are not crazy priced. Steel is 14c28n, but it's fine really.. overall great overview you gave in the video! This'll help knife newbies a lot :)
This would be my guide for buying: 1: choose the type of knife that fits purpose (don't buy a carving knife for survival or bushcraft) 2: Handle and grind type 3: Design (sharp spine, sharpening choil, tang construction, jimping, gimmicks) 4: Materials used (steel type, handle material) 5: Sheath (material, fit, design, options like firesteel loop etc..)
Most important for me is definitely blade shape - but I'm extending the knife options beyond belt knives to culinary knives (which I have more experience with). I have 4 main culinary knives, two in vg-10, one in Aus-8, and one Rapala fillet knife. I use them all for different tasks. The steel in this context is less important than the shape. The handles are fairly important but the pinch grip makes the balance more important than the handle shape and material. The grinds all factor into the shape.
Hey I was thinking about a video you could do something like how to upgrade a v edge to secondary convex or whatever edge you guys prefer. I watched a video where you guys lightly touched on different sharpening methods but i would enjoy a more detailed video to upgrade the sharpness or edge of a v edge knife. Hope you give that a thought!
Can you give some tips on a small sharpening tool/solution that can be taken on a trip/hike. I'd carry a Cold Steel Recon 1 or maybe a fix-blade survival style for hikes in the African bush.
What is the most important for me while choosing knife for an excursion or a day micro adventure is sheath. What I'm most interested in is carrying ability - for a long or short knife, is it vertical or horizontal sheath, belt loop or clip, soft or firm, hi ride or low ride, dangler, fixed loop or easy detachable. Over the years I found that no matter how pretty, how comfortable and high performing knife is, the pain or joy comes from carrying it - which strongly conforms to what I'll be doing with what equipment (backpack with hip belt etc...). Maybe that's because I'm not a kind of stationary bushcrafter, I like to walk and perform some tasks, and at the end have nice relaxing camp :)
G'day Guys, useful vid. I reckon multitasking is king, because ..... I always pair up 2 blades in the outdoors, (a big and a smaller fella), if one is lost, perhaps fails, the other needs to get you out of strife. So yeah, .... what are you gonna use it for ... X 10 ; ) Mind you, your're so right Martin, if it aint got the ergos, you aint gonna use it in the first place. Especially starting out, .... but I still do with every tool ......... research, research, research !!!!!. Personally, I've collected quite a few dozen, fixed and folding, (way more than anyone really needs, lol), over the years, .... and sure some are more lovable than others, but cant think of one I dont like for getting an array of jobs done; .... so the research effort has paid off big time in the long run ..... + its fun and interesting anyway IMO. Oh yeah, stainless of some description is much better in my climate, (love S30/35, the sweet spot for my money), but I will use a carbon, particularly on the big fellas, or occasionally if the design is to good to ignore and cant be had in a stainless, and yes they are often easier to sharpen/hone in the field; ..... though for that very reason, the ol' 420 HC, AUS-8 and such still have their place out in the sticks I reckon. Incidentally; a "true" or "full" scandi is the worst choice sharpening wise, simply because there's so much more metal to get through. Main point is; .... don't forget to consider maintenance away from home, ..... likely where it matters most. Cheers Duke.
Gentleman, I have to say I always love your videos. You do a great job of expressing opinion, with little to no bias, and give all the knives a very fair and honest review. Your information is always crucial, and I really do love it. However, there is one thing that I have noticed over the past year or so especially, and I just wanted to point it out. If it is intentional, please explain it to me, but you often refer to many "Bowie" style American knives as Kabar knives. And while Ka-Bar knives are a bowie design, technically, Ka-bar is the brand, not the style, and I believe from a technical aspect, which is certainly an aspect you guys excel at, a Ka-bar is simply a stacked leather handle, steel pommeled Bowie design. I see you guys calling several bowie knives from other makers Ka-bars. Is this intentional, or is it the brands desire? Just curious. Please keep up the excellent work, love your work!
I saw some sort of inuit style knife that looked like a puukko but it has what looks like a convex grind on one side and it’s hollow on the other side. Almost looks like a piece of pipe cut in half.
I just bought an Enzo Elver kit ...I should have did this 10 years ago . Imho it's one of the best little bushcraft knives I've ever used. .. ONLY $49 with the sheath. Buy one , I have a box full of $100 + blades and have had just about all the popular budget knives on the market . The Elver is so comfortable to use . I think Brisa isn't going to make um anymore their hard to find in the u.s .
Nice video! When it comes to the apo finish of a TRC knife it does have an impact on the cutting performance. I took the coating/finish off because I felt like it was too much friction when working with wood.
I think the most important part is the blade shape. Based on that, it’s all preferences. But the blade shape is what actually will tell you what a knife will excel at. I say this as a knife beginner by the way.
Awesome vid - mostly because it's good to stop and think sometimes about what you're purchasing and why. It can be easy to get caught up in some new fad or steel or design (especially for those new to knives) but is it what you really need?? Always pays to take a few moments to decide what you really need in a knife and then get the knife that best fits that need. You'll have a much better experience. All too often people criticise a knife when in reality they simply chose the wrong knife for the job at hand. Like Mikkie my first priority is the handles. Sharp blades all.
Great vid gentlemen, as usual. My own take...... The grind, size and blade type are chosen for you based on intended use. The metal is broadly chosen for you based on your budget. The handle ergonomics though, that's purely your own decision because everyone's hands are different. Take advice about everything except the handle, that you must choose yourself young padawan.
The grind first (Scandi or flat) and the handle second. The handle must be comfortable and have a reasonable grip. I want the grind to be able to carve because I do a lot of that, but also be able to do food prep. Thanks for the video. 🔪🎸
Once you have a lock on a folding knife fail and try to BITE off you pinky finger I went straight to fixed blades and they look better too the reliability and style builds on itself.
It really depends on the folder. I used to carry cheap $15 usd knives with a liner lock. Same thing happened to me. Switches to a Cold Steel triad lock and I have legitimately hung from the knife in a tree and no lock failure or even blade wiggle. Depends on what lock and who made it.
@@The4cp a folder is a built in flaw to me after the fail and after wearing a fixed blade it really completes the look, the options for accessories and sheath are tops far more handy as a grab and go, much more visual its just a better deal all around in my opinion, if i were more bold i would open carry a sword as it is legal, i have done from time to time its just cool to dress up a little, folder? cant see them really don't get to compare it to friends fixed blades and the CONSTANT reliability, i have a folder on my belt buckle that is good enough tool and it looks good but a fixed blade is a lot more noticeable.
For me, the handle is also the most important thing about the knife. I also have a very large Fällkniven and Helle knife collection. My favourite knife, just because of the handle, is the Fällkniven TK2 with... 3G steel. Although I like COS and Elmax more, I always have 3G with me. :)
My favorite knife is a Dulo Puukko Mahti in MagnaCut. The first thing that come to my mind when I think of that knife is the grind: a fantastic full convex that makes this relatively thick blade an incredible sliccer capable of batonning. I like the oval shaped handle in burl, it could come slippery but I add ranger band when it’s needed. But the handle is not what makes this knife stand a part from the others. For me the handle is a hygienic factor: it needs to be good for me to appreciate the Knife but it will never makes me love a knife. That’s because the profile and grind of the knives will assure the performance while the handle will assure the comfort and safety of it. That being said, there’s probably more good blades out there than good handles. Therefore my common sense would tell me to prioritize the handle but we can’t prevent a heart to love and my heart loves a full convex edge relatively thin behind the edge.
It's not the best knife, it's over thick for one and too small to get a lot of leverage, but Esse CR 2.5 was from a friend. That's a lot of reason to carry it so much. Then, it's delightful! Whenever I first held it and looked it it, it brought a smile to my face. It's SO different! I love novelty in a knife: for example UgTools TiNy Floe. Man that knife is wildly unique! Now that I've had it I would never be without it, it doesn't do everything in one, but it's massively appealing. Works great for EDC! I agree one one thing: fixed blades are REAL knives and folders aren't even mentioned in this video. That says a lot.
I’ve tried and tried to have a fancy expensive knife… I always grab for my mora companion mg. The handle is very comfortable, it’s light, the grind goes into the handle, and the sheath is so easy to just clip on. I do have an expensive axe though😀
Just buy something from Terava, problem solved. I have the Skrama, Jaakaripuuko 140 and 85 and absolutely love them. Field tested and approved. Just gotta get one of the tiny knives…..
Nice video for people who are new to knives and comprehensibly disoriented. Actually, it is a thing about personal preferences. (...it was a Stormvector, not an El Chete.🤫)
Big respect, I've been watching you guys for years and truly respect your opinions even though I don't always agree with them. My all time favorite knife is the TOPS skinat. I would love to hear your opinion on this blade. Please do a video on it if possible I really want to know what you guys think. P.S. Mikki rules!!!!
"Fun" fact: Leather sheaths can be bad for carbon steel knives, because they are holding the moisture! Maybe you could impregnate it somehow with wax or something on the inside. Awww! Of course Mikkie covered it!
Thanks to Bespoke Post for sponsoring this video! New subscribers get 20% off their first box of awesome - go to bespokepost.com/dbck20 and enter code DBCK20 at checkout.
MARTY ! TELL MIK HE FORGOT #6 !!! NEVER BUY A KNIFE THAT SAYS "SURVIVAL LILLY"
SEMPER FI
GUNNY
A good percentage of knives that they give awesome reviews to are sold out. They have something to do with that.
Good info!!
I wish I would have had this video 10 years ago before I got addicted to knives and started spending all my money on different knives because I had no clue what I was looking for 😅
Now I am a crazy knife collector with no money.
No money and great investments.
Even when you know what your looking for, another one comes out ans well........another knife to buy. Lol
Me too but I need to go back 40 years
I just purchased a Bark River Bushcraft Scout in CPM-Magnacut! Not necessarily pertinent to this video, but I just had to tell someone! Plus, I know the DBK boys will appreciate such a dope buy
No need to be ashamed, I would bust with pride if I had one!😂
I love the fact they love knives so much! They seem like genuinely nice people.
I don't think I've missed a DBK Vid in 2 years... 🤔, zero regrets. One of the best 👌
For me at leest 5 years.
@emmokaemingk9448 what a boss!!
High praise! MLE + DBK =
I think I have mentioned my favourite knife for outdoor activities before and it's a knife I have had since my late teens or by 20 yrs old at most. It is a Grohmann Carbon Steel model #3 or Canadian Army model Russell Belt Knife. It is easy to sharpen and holds a very fine edge (easily touched with a strop) and because of it's overall design was made to fit the hand and focus the blade so that the knife becomes an extension of you while doing a task. It is equally at home boning out and carving up a Moose as making tent pegs for our wall tent. For the past 35 years it has performed any task asked of it and done it without issue or drama. Is it as tough or durable as say, CPM 3V steel or even D2,...No, but there is absolutely nothing wrong with a high carbon steel blade so long as you treat it like a living object that needs care and attention while and after use, no big deal. Would I love to have a Benchmade Leuku and Puukko, Absolutely, or a Joker Nessmuk or Nomad 6.5, again Yes! but all these things cost money I don't need to spend right now because I have a few good serviceable knives, but perhaps someday I will pull the trigger and purchase a new set for use outdoors. Now I'm not knocking any knife or any steel, just use what you are comfortable with. Mora and Marttiini make some fantastic low cost knives that will faithfully do whatever task you ask of it (within reason) asking only to be touched up and if a carbon blade has been purchased a light oiling after each use or sharpening. Also, try and handle the knife before buying, that means going into a store, talking to the clerk and putting your hands on a few knives to see how they feel and if they fit the purpose you need them for. For the most part you aren't just buying a blade or a handle, you are looking for a companion to work with you on your adventures. These are my tools that I take with me camping or Hunting, A Husqvarna full size axe 32", A campsize Estwing axe 26" (or so), A Coldsteel Kukri (about 18") A cheap Bolo Machete that lives on my Quad, along with the Husky Axe and my Knives, My Grohmann #3, a Blades of Alaska Yukon in D2, a Bow saw with a wood and a meat/bone blade and utensils for camp and cooking. I dare say if the Apocalypse ever did happen I could load up my quad and a trailer with enough food and fuel along with my wall tent and stove and find a nice place close to a spring or small river to make a pretty nice place to live out the rest of my days, I'd need a dog for Bear detection etc. and a cat for rodent control in the tent. Actually, that sounds pretty good!! Cheers from Canada!! - Dave
I also love my carbon blades!
You just can't beat the other properties when you leave chromium out of the equation! (And you can easily and very quickly fix the edge and sharpen it back up in no time!
I always say stainless blades are for people who don't like caring (or forget to care) for their knives.
1. Firemaking. 2. Shelter building. 3. Trap making. 4. Fish and game processing. The qualities of the knife which suit those priorities in that order are most important to me. I have a Morakniv Garberg in high-carbon steel with the ferro rod holder and sharpener attachment. I also have a Fallkniven DC4 in my kit for it.
9:36 Just for the Tops fanatics out there, it is a TOPS Knives Storm Vector.
The search for the perfect knife is like the search for the holy grail! My collection is growing and growing, but the more knives I've got, the more I know what I'm looking for in the perfect knife. And still I have not found it.
For a knife nerd, happiness is in the hunt for the perfect knife!👍
Yesterday I bought the Bahco 2449.
It's a monster and finally I found a knife that fits my hand perfectly. She's a keeper.
I just found this channel and instantly subscribed. I’m new to the knife world and I’m addicted to your videos!
I really don't know why you guys don't have more subs than you do.
Keeping it real guys.
I’m always carrying my little Elderis I love it. The handle and grind are perfect. It’s perfect for my daily carry.
The Mora Eldris? I love mine too!
Those are very useful, and always an appreciated gift. 👍🏻
@@sweetdrahthaar7951 I wish they had one in Carbon.
The advantage of convex is the smooth single bevel and therefore less resistance in the cut. Everything else depends moreso on the overall geometry of the blade (thicker for splitting wood etc.).
Just another reason why I'm looking at a william Collins multi grind knife..checks everything I want a knife to do..love to see you guys test one of those!
TOP TIER. I HAVE MANY
Loving your videos gentlemen, most fun knife channel around, with zero compromise for great information.
5:03 Actually hollow grind is easier than flat grind, because of machines in use apparently.
Fantastic video, I will definitely recommend this to my friends!
Yes! Yes! Yes! First, love all your videos. But... This was a short but very comprehensive course on all the aspects of what the individual should look for. The knife is like a woman. It is very personal on what makes you happy! This one you guys nailed it. Respect from Florida 🌴
There are so many knives out there that I don't look for one specific thing, but rather, the knife that has all features I prefer for whatever role I intend it to fill. Or, sometimes, I just like the knife.
I think edge retention is a must however 1080 - 1095 has worked for a very long time even though you sharpen much more often. You can easily re-press/form your sheath around the knife to give it much better grip retention.
11:33 Mikkie B has a hard time clipping his Mora onto his belt. I never put mine on my belt anymore. I find they do really well clipped to the outside of my front pants pocket. 🤓
Thank you guys for breaking it down and always being fun and entertaining. Love your videos. They were a great relief during COVID
Very good review, synopsis...I like the Casstrom no 10 in Stainless steel. Plus a few other knives like a custom fish , or Skinner.
'Harro, knife people'. Grind, handle, steel-type would be my Top 3.
Props on the Condor Therasaur recommendation.
Scandi, no-hotspot-handle, decent-enough steel, for about $40,- you've got a splendid bushcraft knive.
For me the handle is part of the design , great video , thanks
Hello DBK .. I am your subscriber from Indonesia, if you don't mind, could you review the AITOR COMMANDO Knife from AITOR COMPANY, because one of the special forces in my country still uses the knife from AITOR to this day. Thank You
Love the scales on that Manix. cheers.
I think the grind is most important because all knives can be touched up regarding sharpness, but the grind determines what tasks the knife is capable of and what they excel at.
Yep. Geometry and heat treat are so important yet a surprising number of people don’t pay attention to either.
Any grind is fundamentally capable of any task - keep in mind that we at one point in time used sharp rocks. Every shape/size isn’t capable of of every task, however; you can’t drill small holes with a meat cleaver; you can’t chop wood with a spoon carver.
@@whengrapespop5728 getting something done and it being the right tool for the job. I’ve carved spoons with a hatchet and I’ve done food prep with a thick scandi grind, but I wouldn’t recommend either.
handel is everything, comfort, safety, prefornens, endurance, styling, grip.
then comes steel, then comes grind.
just my opinion. great vid gus as always..
GROETJES!!!!
Gotta say the handle is the most important feature. It’s what connects your body to the tool. Everything else is context sensitive- the steel type, the blade length, the grind, the sheath all depend on the environment and intended use.
The Boker Bronco is a great knife! Good steel!
Carving -mora
Hard use-SRK joker nomad
Chopping-skrama esee Darien machete
Kitchen- victorinox
Very nice overview, for bushcrafting I love my BRK Gunny Scandi in Desert Ironwood the most, and like you said, it is due to the haptics of the handle, it just feels great ... and Scandi in CPM 3V is nice too :) cheers
Mikkie could sell anything. I've had bespoke on and off since 2015. Aside from an Opinel no.8 and a Craighill key chain knife; they have only ever sent shit knives (titan neck knife, black forge outdoor chef knife, and a cutting board/knife combo that was the most god awful knife I've ever used). They do have some really cool things aside from their knives. Almost reactivated my subscription. I carry a folder 90% of the time. A smooth open with a great handle is what I personally enjoy. I've been carrying a Tactile Rockwall I just received last week. It is my first knife with Magnacut. Hoping you guys give one the destruction test soon so I can validate my purchase(or cry about). Your videos are awesome. Thanks to you both.
I'd like to see a video on white river knives. Like the ursus 45 or the fire craft series.
very nice video, good informations for beginners!
full flat with convex edge is what i like in my universal outdoor knives!
DBK Bros - Great Video! Nice summary and good to hear your analysis of all of these aspects that contribute to a good knife. Really hard to pick the most important aspect, because, even if that one aspect is perfect, if the others aren't - the blade won't work out well. For example, great steel with poorly designed handle and blade grind - fail. You can do that for all the aspects you mentioned. I think the point is, you need to have all (or as many as possible) of these key aspects in balance to have a great knife. Maybe if one aspect is off, you might be willing to compromise, such as awesome design, grind, and steel, but the handle is a bit uncomfortable - I might be willing to tolerate the handle. This REALLY IS a great video for beginners to advanced to watch and think about - THANKS!
Good video thanks. I got a kukhri survival knife and the handle is crap so I never use it. I have over the years purchased a few known brand expensive blades and never regretted it. Cheers Dave 🇳🇱 🇳🇿
DBK KNIFE!! Is all you’ll ever need!
Best knife advice ever. Thank you Legends🦉
I wish you guys would do a video on a Kephart style knife. See how one of the OG bushcraft knives handles modern tasks.
Will you consider adding text in the editing of videos showing the name of whatever knife you take out for anyone interested in the knives you show in your videos? Like if Mikkie takes out a Scandi Gunny, in the bottom left it'd show "Gunny Scandi 3V - Bark River" for like 4 seconds.
I used to have a classic mora years ago and its in. Abox somewhere. Ive always liked those knives but felt the blade was slightly short.
I´ve been using an old Morakniv classic no2 for the past 5 years for bushcraft tasks, and i have to agree, the price is nothing if you know what you want from you knife (and the handle holy shit, it is sooo important) great video lads keep it up
I used to sell knives at a small gift shop. Not the craziest collection to choose from but not bad either.
The usual algorithm for suggesting was almost always like this:
1) Have anything caught your attention already?
2) What's your budget?
3) What for you need a knife?
Depending on customer request I usually can filter in and out options from our selection. I remember a man who spent at least 20-30 min trying/holding different knives from my selection, until he made his choice.
And you know what? A few weeks later he came back with a positive feedback and thanked me for being patient with him... and bought another knife. :)
So I can stand with design being most important aspect... if we factor in the handle as part of a design.
Hello!
Thank You for nice video!
I thing You miss 2 very important thing:
1. Blade length - I always have this choosing problem, because you dont need 150 mm blade for carving and 80 mm blade not good for food prep or battoning
2. Blade thickness - it is can be added to grind section, because 5 mm low scandi not good (usually) and 3 mm full convex is to weak for battoning (usually)
Nice video long enough for me but I would like to see you guys talk more about design. Explain Bowie Nessmuk etc Thanks
I love your passion for knives. It’s contagious! 🤩
It's amazing the influence and information I've gotten form DBK, Prepared Mind 101, Gideon's Tactical, Nick Shabazz and Chiorboys Cutlery. I learned EVERYTHING from you guys. Thank you all so much!
Greetings fellow knife enthusiasts, another well made episode. Thought provoking and informative as usual. Why we love knives is very personal and maybe a little disturbing to others who don't get it. I have more blades than a field of grass but always room for more.
For me, the most important is the aspect. Of the blade. Of the handle. Of the all knife. After it's the steel quality. And of course, what it 's for. Edc, bushcraft, survival, defence, collection ... ^^
You couldn't have timed this release any better! I've got a good friend who reached out asking about knives for the first time recently.... now I can send him this video before he makes any classic first knife mistakes!
Would love to see more folders get reviewed by you guys
Mikkie looks very beautiful in his skirt of knives!! I agree with Maarten, handle is so important. It's like a pair of comfy shoes, you'll just pick it up more.
Great sum up of what to look for and think about, keep up the good work!
Thank you. Very informative video. I just wish more knife retailers were in my area, because I need to actually hold the knife to get a good feeling of it. I totally agree, if the knife handle isn’t comfortable, I’m not going to use it.
Your conclusion is exactly the reason I decided on a joker nordico: handle is ultra comfortable, no hot spots whatsoever, awesome scandi grind and a proven blade shape (spear point). They have a sharp spine, great handle materials, the leather sheaths are awesome (but would love a kydex for it tbh), knives are handmade in spain and they are not crazy priced. Steel is 14c28n, but it's fine really.. overall great overview you gave in the video! This'll help knife newbies a lot :)
This would be my guide for buying:
1: choose the type of knife that fits purpose (don't buy a carving knife for survival or bushcraft)
2: Handle and grind type
3: Design (sharp spine, sharpening choil, tang construction, jimping, gimmicks)
4: Materials used (steel type, handle material)
5: Sheath (material, fit, design, options like firesteel loop etc..)
Most important for me is definitely blade shape - but I'm extending the knife options beyond belt knives to culinary knives (which I have more experience with). I have 4 main culinary knives, two in vg-10, one in Aus-8, and one Rapala fillet knife. I use them all for different tasks. The steel in this context is less important than the shape. The handles are fairly important but the pinch grip makes the balance more important than the handle shape and material. The grinds all factor into the shape.
Hey I was thinking about a video you could do something like how to upgrade a v edge to secondary convex or whatever edge you guys prefer. I watched a video where you guys lightly touched on different sharpening methods but i would enjoy a more detailed video to upgrade the sharpness or edge of a v edge knife. Hope you give that a thought!
Can you give some tips on a small sharpening tool/solution that can be taken on a trip/hike. I'd carry a Cold Steel Recon 1 or maybe a fix-blade survival style for hikes in the African bush.
i only make cardboard sheath
and if i wanted i could use some dpoxy and leather fo make it look nice
What is the most important for me while choosing knife for an excursion or a day micro adventure is sheath. What I'm most interested in is carrying ability - for a long or short knife, is it vertical or horizontal sheath, belt loop or clip, soft or firm, hi ride or low ride, dangler, fixed loop or easy detachable. Over the years I found that no matter how pretty, how comfortable and high performing knife is, the pain or joy comes from carrying it - which strongly conforms to what I'll be doing with what equipment (backpack with hip belt etc...). Maybe that's because I'm not a kind of stationary bushcrafter, I like to walk and perform some tasks, and at the end have nice relaxing camp :)
Thanks
G'day Guys, useful vid.
I reckon multitasking is king, because ..... I always pair up 2 blades in the outdoors, (a big and a smaller fella), if one is lost, perhaps fails, the other needs to get you out of strife. So yeah, .... what are you gonna use it for ... X 10 ; )
Mind you, your're so right Martin, if it aint got the ergos, you aint gonna use it in the first place.
Especially starting out, .... but I still do with every tool ......... research, research, research !!!!!.
Personally, I've collected quite a few dozen, fixed and folding, (way more than anyone really needs, lol), over the years, .... and sure some are more lovable than others, but cant think of one I dont like for getting an array of jobs done; .... so the research effort has paid off big time in the long run ..... + its fun and interesting anyway IMO.
Oh yeah, stainless of some description is much better in my climate, (love S30/35, the sweet spot for my money), but I will use a carbon, particularly on the big fellas, or occasionally if the design is to good to ignore and cant be had in a stainless, and yes they are often easier to sharpen/hone in the field; ..... though for that very reason, the ol' 420 HC, AUS-8 and such still have their place out in the sticks I reckon.
Incidentally; a "true" or "full" scandi is the worst choice sharpening wise, simply because there's so much more metal to get through. Main point is; .... don't forget to consider maintenance away from home, ..... likely where it matters most.
Cheers Duke.
Could y'all do a review the Brush Wolf by TOPS? Very unique design.
Is there a reason you guys never cover Casstrom knives?
Love the videos btw!
Gentleman, I have to say I always love your videos. You do a great job of expressing opinion, with little to no bias, and give all the knives a very fair and honest review. Your information is always crucial, and I really do love it. However, there is one thing that I have noticed over the past year or so especially, and I just wanted to point it out. If it is intentional, please explain it to me, but you often refer to many "Bowie" style American knives as Kabar knives. And while Ka-Bar knives are a bowie design, technically, Ka-bar is the brand, not the style, and I believe from a technical aspect, which is certainly an aspect you guys excel at, a Ka-bar is simply a stacked leather handle, steel pommeled Bowie design. I see you guys calling several bowie knives from other makers Ka-bars. Is this intentional, or is it the brands desire? Just curious. Please keep up the excellent work, love your work!
I saw some sort of inuit style knife that looked like a puukko but it has what looks like a convex grind on one side and it’s hollow on the other side. Almost looks like a piece of pipe cut in half.
I just bought an Enzo Elver kit ...I should have did this 10 years ago . Imho it's one of the best little bushcraft knives I've ever used. .. ONLY $49 with the sheath.
Buy one ,
I have a box full of $100 + blades and have had just about all the popular budget knives on the market . The Elver is so comfortable to use . I think Brisa isn't going to make um anymore their hard to find in the u.s .
Thanks for sharing guys
Can you do a video were you do fallkniven dc4 vs cc4 sharpener
Nice video! When it comes to the apo finish of a TRC knife it does have an impact on the cutting performance. I took the coating/finish off because I felt like it was too much friction when working with wood.
I think the most important part is the blade shape. Based on that, it’s all preferences. But the blade shape is what actually will tell you what a knife will excel at. I say this as a knife beginner by the way.
Awesome vid - mostly because it's good to stop and think sometimes about what you're purchasing and why. It can be easy to get caught up in some new fad or steel or design (especially for those new to knives) but is it what you really need?? Always pays to take a few moments to decide what you really need in a knife and then get the knife that best fits that need. You'll have a much better experience. All too often people criticise a knife when in reality they simply chose the wrong knife for the job at hand. Like Mikkie my first priority is the handles. Sharp blades all.
Great vid gentlemen, as usual.
My own take......
The grind, size and blade type are chosen for you based on intended use.
The metal is broadly chosen for you based on your budget.
The handle ergonomics though, that's purely your own decision because everyone's hands are different.
Take advice about everything except the handle, that you must choose yourself young padawan.
Folding or fixed would be a good topic too. You'd mostly want a folder for edc, talking knifes in general.
The grind first (Scandi or flat) and the handle second. The handle must be comfortable and have a reasonable grip. I want the grind to be able to carve because I do a lot of that, but also be able to do food prep. Thanks for the video. 🔪🎸
Love you guys! What do you guys think of that knife tester Joe X? Do you think his test are fair?
Once you have a lock on a folding knife fail and try to BITE off you pinky finger I went straight to fixed blades and they look better too the reliability and style builds on itself.
yikes!
@@DutchBushcraftKnives had to mostly super glue it back together.
It really depends on the folder. I used to carry cheap $15 usd knives with a liner lock. Same thing happened to me. Switches to a Cold Steel triad lock and I have legitimately hung from the knife in a tree and no lock failure or even blade wiggle. Depends on what lock and who made it.
@@The4cp a folder is a built in flaw to me after the fail and after wearing a fixed blade it really completes the look, the options for accessories and sheath are tops far more handy as a grab and go, much more visual its just a better deal all around in my opinion, if i were more bold i would open carry a sword as it is legal, i have done from time to time its just cool to dress up a little, folder? cant see them really don't get to compare it to friends fixed blades and the CONSTANT reliability, i have a folder on my belt buckle that is good enough tool and it looks good but a fixed blade is a lot more noticeable.
For me, the handle is also the most important thing about the knife. I also have a very large Fällkniven and Helle knife collection.
My favourite knife, just because of the handle, is the Fällkniven TK2 with... 3G steel. Although I like COS and Elmax more, I always have 3G with me. :)
Do you know if you really think about it fell as a Scandi grind is nothing but a giant V edge
I want you guys to collab on a DBK edition of the TRC K-1S. That knife, with a convex edge, would be amazing.
awesome video guys…good timing as I am lining up my next knife!
Great guide guys, didn't know the half of the stuff you told me 👍
I demand at least 3 DBKs per week
hahaha
Price is the most important!
My favorite knife is a Dulo Puukko Mahti in MagnaCut. The first thing that come to my mind when I think of that knife is the grind: a fantastic full convex that makes this relatively thick blade an incredible sliccer capable of batonning.
I like the oval shaped handle in burl, it could come slippery but I add ranger band when it’s needed. But the handle is not what makes this knife stand a part from the others. For me the handle is a hygienic factor: it needs to be good for me to appreciate the Knife but it will never makes me love a knife. That’s because the profile and grind of the knives will assure the performance while the handle will assure the comfort and safety of it.
That being said, there’s probably more good blades out there than good handles. Therefore my common sense would tell me to prioritize the handle but we can’t prevent a heart to love and my heart loves a full convex edge relatively thin behind the edge.
I told survivor Lilly she should have consulted on her latest knife video and she basicly stated she should consulted you on makeing knives
It's not the best knife, it's over thick for one and too small to get a lot of leverage, but Esse CR 2.5 was from a friend. That's a lot of reason to carry it so much. Then, it's delightful! Whenever I first held it and looked it it, it brought a smile to my face. It's SO different! I love novelty in a knife: for example UgTools TiNy Floe. Man that knife is wildly unique! Now that I've had it I would never be without it, it doesn't do everything in one, but it's massively appealing. Works great for EDC! I agree one one thing: fixed blades are REAL knives and folders aren't even mentioned in this video. That says a lot.
hahahaha! True
But ironically most people watching and even dbk probably have a folder in the pocket 😉
I’ve tried and tried to have a fancy expensive knife… I always grab for my mora companion mg. The handle is very comfortable, it’s light, the grind goes into the handle, and the sheath is so easy to just clip on. I do have an expensive axe though😀
Make some Noize for DBK! 💪🏽
Just buy something from Terava, problem solved. I have the Skrama, Jaakaripuuko 140 and 85 and absolutely love them. Field tested and approved. Just gotta get one of the tiny knives…..
Nice video for people who are new to knives and comprehensibly disoriented. Actually, it is a thing about personal preferences. (...it was a Stormvector, not an El Chete.🤫)
Big respect, I've been watching you guys for years and truly respect your opinions even though I don't always agree with them. My all time favorite knife is the TOPS skinat. I would love to hear your opinion on this blade. Please do a video on it if possible I really want to know what you guys think. P.S. Mikki rules!!!!
"Fun" fact:
Leather sheaths can be bad for carbon steel knives, because they are holding the moisture!
Maybe you could impregnate it somehow with wax or something on the inside.
Awww! Of course Mikkie covered it!
The combination of the elements (the choices of the knife maker) that's going to matter. It is the sum of its parts.
What was the second knife you showed? Right after the Gunny Scandi
Anyone who owns a Manix 2 has an extremely awesome taste in folding knives! 🤩