DCA, I know you work for a knife store but it never feels like you’re “selling” me something. Just a dude who loves knives. I think that’s why I keep watching, thank you sir.
Survival pro tip, if you need a spear in a survival situation, grab a stick, put a tip on it and use it that way 😉 worked for hundreds of years quite well... 🤔
The two Mora models you presented are good for wood carving if you are carving occasionally. However, Mora makes a line of knives that are fantastic carving tools. I have a 30-gallon trash can full of wood chips made with them. They use wood handles and laminated steel blades. The issue with plastic handles is they just don’t provide the control of wooden ones. The oval shape lets you find the perfect angle and position to make cuts. The laminate steel blade cuts so smoothly I seldom needed to sand my finished projects. I made a fallen wild cherry tree in my backyard into wooden spoons, spatulas, and bowls for a year before it was all used up. Then a maple fell; and well I continued using it up too. All the things I made were carved without a single power tool; just a bow saw, axe, hatchet and Mora wood carving knives. I wanted to learn about carving wood and I sure did. There were quite few more cans full of wood chips during my learning process however, I just saved one. I tried all kinds of different types of whittling knives and blade steels; none beat Mora models.
Great video. I love the snow and neally hatchet you showed at the end. I've been using mine for about 2 years camping in all sorts of weather. The edge it came with was meh, but tunes up quickly with a file.
Yes I totally agree with you on the spear thing......sharpen a pole/stick then harden the point in the coals of your fire... never risk loosing or breaking your knife.
I have a Kabar BK9 in my go bag, I sometimes put a Schrade camp axe in there too...sometimes I take it out. I go back and forth with it. Wasn’t it Rambo First Blood where Rambo killed a pig with a knife on a stick when that became popular with “survivalists”?
Interesting presentation. I'm especially taken with the little Moraa carving knife that I somehow hadn't heard about before. FYI, one of my favorite tools for foraging, bush crafting, etc is a tomahawk with a hammer type poll. They are generally lighter than a hatchet but longer and the extra reach can come in handy.
In the past, Dave, I commented on your conversational style in a negative way. I take that comment back and if I could remember the episode, I would delete that comment. You have proven that you do "know your stuff" and communicate your knowledge effectively. Sorry for my ignorance. P.S. My Metamorph is also a difficult to front flip knife...requires frequent practice. If I put that knife away for a week or two...my first attempt to front flip is usually failure.
I usually let the weather decide the axe vs chopper for me. Spring and summer w wet green wood gets the chopper. Fall and winter w dormant or frozen wood gets the axe
Thanks for answer! Got myself a kizlyar supreme malamute bare blade when the email dropped. Hopefully I'll get around to making a handle + sheath this week.
Two a day, my 34 year old pre hook and pin Swiss champ and a Gerber Gator in 154 CM that I love and have had for about 2 years. When dressed for lazy 90+ degree days around the house I've been known to just carry a Gerber LST ultra light which was my Dad's and was his favorite pocket knife for it's lightweight, low price and good quality.
Your explaination for not using a knife for a spear tip is very well put. Most "survival types" today will tell us to sharpen the stick to make a functional spear, and not risk the knife for a questionable weapon.
The Kellam H Roselli, Finnish Long Hiking Axe, Hand Forged Carbon Steel Head - R850 is the camp axe I would like to get. Sure can do a lot of fine work with that choke hold and various tasks around camp.
Hey amazing content....again....you guys are killing it. Please do share some of the must have collectors knife in the next one for new enthusiasts who are working on building their collection. Keep it below 200 $ if possible. Things like kershaw leek, spyderco para 2 or 3, ontario rat 1 and 2, civivi elementum mora garberg etc etc
Great as always! Totally agree with the spear thing. If carving and hardening a wood pole isn't cool enough for someone, pick up a few Esee arrowheads (or similar) and lash'em til your heart's content. :)
I'm a backpacker, when processing wood for fires in the backcountry, I use an Ontario RTAK-II for chopping and/or batoning. 1095 steel is great b/c it's easy to sharpen, very forgiving and can bend slightly as necessary when batoning through knots in logs. Swinging a hatchet (or ax) that far from urgent medical care is too dangerous. The Becker BK9 looks great for wood processing. Have WD-40 handy for lubrication and temporary moisture protection, 1095 steel can stain and rust quickly.
Tbh i don't like the Eldris for carving (too short and clunky) but i really LOVE the carver, my best carving knife and the most used for this task... 👍🙂
Really cool🙂 man if you can get away with it use the right tool for the job. A 4 to 5 inch knife for carving/slicing. A saw for bucking. A pack axe (around 24”) for splitting and chopping. I guess if I could only take one it would be a very beefy knife like my BK2
Agree Husqvarna axes are great and reasonable price. Throw a small silky saw and voila! This is exactly what I carry including a Mora 1 C and Opinel 9 C
David! I'd like to see your suggestions regarding kinife-multitool combos for 3 different scenarios. Work(consruction) Edc(office/city enviroment) Outdoors(bushcrafting) Thanks you!
I have an s.o.g tomahawk, a Camillus ravenous (tiny wee hawk) and when camping love them both. that alongside my Glock Austrian army issue field knife. love the show, my question is this, is spring steel with a nitride coating better outside than say a super stainless ?
Hey David, could you speak about the applications of a (non-karambit) hawkbill blade design? How would one go about sharpening a hawkbill? Are there any other downsides to this blade shape beyond that? I like the Kershaw Launch 10 more than a Boker Kalashnikov because the arch of the hawkbill is more subtle. The Bestech Ivy from a few weeks ago really sparked my interest in them. Thanks.
Any knife is always handy no matter where you are. But when you start talking about other tools, the environment you expect to be in makes the decision for you. Snowboarders and back country skiers usually carry a shovel. Cavers carry multiple sources of light. In the desert water carrying and portable shade becomes primary. Many people do research in the back country, to them binoculars or sample gathering equipment might be key. Or how about that unique hammer that most geologists carry? But for me it's all about the shoes. If I'm going to be moving 8 to 10 hours a day on foot, it doesn't matter what I'm carrying if my feet hurt.
Love the videos! Maybe you can help me out? I’m looking for a full tang bowie type knife. With micarta or g10 scales. With a 7-9 inch blade. Something with good stainless like 440C, 9CR18MOV, 9CR19MOV, 154CM, S30V, S35VN, or Elmax. Thank you.
Why do so many people focus on knife vs axe or having one big knife thats supposed to do everything but can't? Don't they know the classic rule of thumb that one is none and two is one ? A small axe or a hatchet ( or machete in jungle like environments ) ,a medium belt knife, and a good multi blade pocket knife for detail work is what you want. Not a giant knife that you think will do everything or an axe over 2.5lb in most cases. The woods trio is known to be the best choice, and of course having multiple cutting tools in case of loss or breakage is a good idea.
18:33 I also hate "one knife options" type questions, as it is not realistic. I adhere to the "survival trio" doctrine [large knife, saw, and smaller knife]. My personal selection is: Cold Steel Trail Master San Mai III, Silky Gomboy/Bigboy (depending), and a Cold Steel SRK San Mai III. With these one can cover most if not all survival tasks. Also, axes are inherently more dangerous in the hands of all but experts in their use. Maybe the subject for an in-depth study DC?
Be very careful with black coated blades for food prep. Some can cause cancer! On a better subject. Thanks for showing! Has for carving, you are right about the steel. It helps when using them, strop regularly. It keeps the blade perfect.
I find it amazing that the mythology of the dangerous hatchet/axe is so entrenched in peoples minds that it has become fact. I have not once, ever, seen any of the myths proven in use. All axe accidents happen the same as knife accidents only a large knife is harder to maintain, has more edge to cut you with, is more likely to break and is impossible to repair in the field. Now, familiarity plays a huge part in the decision to carry a hatchet/tomahawk or large knife (an actual axe shouldn't ever be compared to a knife). If one is trained with a knife, take your knife, if one is more familiar with the hatchet or tomahawk (in reality the more intuitive tool) then you should take that. In reality both will do the same job with equal ease with no real winner in function.
Finally my Search Is Over, because you gave the run down on the T.M. Hunt M18. There is an Old Deer Hunting Wooded Lava Flow 5 Mile Long Trail with limited Road Access, but the 4x4 can get to us if they know where we are. That has Two More Obsticles like 80 degre Heat, and or then it can Snow on you. So my quest has been to find a Lighter than an Axe Wood Splitter to make a Sweedish Log Fire for; Signaling to the 4x4 squad to come give me and my partner a ride out with our Deer Hunting Prize. The Problem is that it might take the Recovery Team 4 hours to find us, pack out, and a little less time now that they know the route. So during this waite time I can, clean the deer, warm some snow for water, stay warm, make some tea; while, the 4x4 tries to find the "I got a Deer" Signal Fire. So thank you for helping me with my Deer Hunting 40 Year Long Dream.
@@joecasarez7062 @Joe Casarez oh, you're one of "those" people 🤦♂️ You do realise users can come on here just to watch videos, right? I hate people like you who think a barely used or new channel is somehow suspicious. You have no idea about my actual YT history and how long I've been a user.
For me...ALWAYS a knife.....axe is good but there are just so many things it can do. Same with a knife but the value of the things that can be done with a knife out weight those that can be done with an axe....well in my experience. Give a choice I would choose knife every time. I like your points though so nice video! As for what knise and steel....steel is important. as I am a knife maker myself I can tell you that really dose matter. You can ague all you want on that point but different steels have different properties and I personally AVOID stainless unless it is rwl 34 steel. ONE MORE thing...I really dislike these mass produced factory knives....get yourself a proper hand made knives or MAKE one yourself.....best thing I ever did. fits me and is personal and now I sell them too.
Hey there! My question is: What makes the Sebenza different form the Inkosi? Is it just the finger grooves? Or anything else? Thanks for the great videos!
The new Sebenza 31 brought some of the Inkosi improvements over to their flagship design. These days the Inkosi has finger grooves and a shallower hollow grind, which sits somewhere between a flat grind and the deeper hollow on the Sebenza. -DCA
Wish I could find one of those T.M. Hunt M-18's. Do they discontinue because of a lack of interest? To maintain rarity value? Or just because the maker wants to move on to other things? Probably some combination of all three. But dang, wish I could find one of those.
Todd took a small break from them in order to get some new projects off the ground, but the M18 is his signature blade and he has definitely not discontinued them. We will definitely have more once he gears up for his next batches.
CRKT must be the only company left trying to get $50+ for 8cr13mov. A bit disconnected in my opinion. For the young man looking for a carbon steel flipper. Check out the Tops Mini-Scandi folder. It’s a flipper and 1095 carbon steel. It’s around $90 or so and made in the USA. Not sure if KC has them, but I know at least one major blade retailer who does.
@PennsyltuckyBooj yes silky big boy I did have the 170, still do use it but recently upgraded to the big boy, DCA recommend it and it is awesome and I dot see nothing wrong packing both, hell I do lol plus 2 fixed blades and 2 folders lol. Now that might be over kill.
Hi David, Greetings from The Netherlands. Big fan of your videos. I heard you use the term "beater knife" once. It was in the context of a knife that was very good quality, but one doesn't have to be too careful to use it due to the low price. I was wondering, could you tell us your favourites? If you can give us your advice maybe in a KnifeAQ or even in a whole line-up, that would be great. Again, love your vids, so thank you so much for that. Friendly greetings, Erik @knifecenter
@@CadillacDriver that does seem nice and right... they do make it with a stronger steel I see. Sadly only for sale in their own shop, wich does not ship to Europe...
Formosan indigenous tribal folks attach poles to their knives to kill trapped wild boars. They call knives with wooden handle as working knives, hollow ones hunting. Cold Steel Bushman is a homage to their hunting knife.
The more neutral the balance, the easier it is to handle as you aren't fighting the weight distribution of the handle or blade. Admittedly this is a less important thing on smaller folders, but it is worth talking about. -DCA
David, what are your thoughts on matte black vs shiny silver pocket clips. Do you have a preference? The reason I ask is that shiny clips attract unwanted attention to your pocket knife while black pocket clips are more subtle. The last thing I need is a random Karen screaming out, “why are you carrying a knife?!?!” while I’m out in public. Am I in the minority here because besides benchmade, most knife companies put out shiny disco ball pocket clips.
Discretion can be important. For discretion when wearing blue jeans, a matte black pocket clip suits me, as does a wire deep carry clip. For khakis, wire is definitely the way to go.
Hello D.C.A., David, I always love watching, plus being a certified "knife-aholic", that T.M. Hunt of yours went "TWANG" in my head as soon as you picked it up!😱 Is that something that you carry and what's the "ish cost"?🤔 I'm sure it's out of my wheelhouse, but when I hit the "lotto" my wishlist will drop significantly.🤗 The thing of the lotto isn't the odds against winning (that's those who want to sound smarter than they are) since I did well in college statistics, it's simply you're going to win or lose, that's it! It is the ONLY way to pay so little and gain so much, plus it does one more thing which is VERY beneficial to the buyer, it buys HOPE!🧐 Life without hope, isn't a good life, period!😖 Just sayin'. Thanks, take care, "God Bless", sincerely, Randy.👍👍🙏🏻😇👊
They are hard to find right now because Todd (Hunt) has paused them to get some other projects off the ground, but when he gets back to making more we will surely have them back in stock. They are all handmade and run around $500.
@@knifecenter "HOLY SMOKESCREEN BATMAN"! Ten Grant's, that'll take a yr. if I could save to get it. Oh well, just another shattered dream.😢 That's the story of my life.🙄 Everytime that happens "I feel like the dog that just got kicked"!🤔😯 Oh well, what can I say. Thanks for the info, have fun and be safe. Take care, "God Bless", sincerely, Randy. 👍👍🙏🏻😇👊
Question, I would like a knife that’s rough and tumble, that can be used heavily one hand open and closed. I’m a carpenter currently carry a mini grip with a thumb hole, love it. But sometimes use my knife for opening cement bags and grit gets in the bar lock. I do light prying typically opening paint can type lids. Also would like a little longer blade. I would like it to hold a good edge, I’m often cutting 6mil plastic and craft paper, that’s a struggle without a sharp knife. My budget is $50-$100 if it goes over a bit that’s OK because I want quality. I know I’m asking for a lot but could you make a fixed blade recommendation as well. Thank you, can’t wait to get your feedback! (Edit) Also I’m going to be a first time buyer from knife center and thought it would be cool if my first purchase was a recommendation from you David. Thanks.
Hey so you probably won't like it but my delica 4 has opened more concrete bags, and paint cans than I can count. The steel holds a decent edge but personally I never get plastic to cut well unless the edge is brand new. I've also never had a problem with grit in the pivot. As for how I open paint cans the space just above the thumb hole first perfectly in the gap for paint cans
Dillon West it’s funny that you started your comment with “you probably won’t like it but” because I’ve personally thought that Syderco knives where overrated for some reason. Although, honestly I’ve never had one. I had a cara cara Bird that I loved in stainless but gave it away. And come to think of it I bought a Spydy fixed blade for my Pops that’s sharpens up nice. I’ve never had an issue with grit getting into the lock bar but it’s in the back of my mind because of the opening. Thank you for your feedback, I’m considering all options although wouldn’t want to give up any blade length, I’ve had my eyes on a Houge Deka but I just want to make sure it’s durable.
My gut says something with a sturdy lock that is easy to keep clean. Something with an open back and washers in the pivot (instead of bearings that can get gummed up with dust). Framelock too, rather than something like a liner lock (again, les susceptible to grit and easier to clean). I would suggest the Boker Plus F3.5. Nice, sturdy and thick blade and all of the above for just under $100. As D2 steel tends to stay a bit toothy, it should do well on the plastic stuff too: kcoti.com/3dLRUGL Thanks for the question! I definitely want to find a spot to talk about this on one of the next videos -DCA
As for paint lid prying, have you considered a pocket prybar type of thing? I can't stop ya, but I never recommend even light prying with a folder. For fixed blades, a Mora Pro (kcoti.com/348CI3f) is cheap and effective, or you could go with a Cold Steel SRK-C (kcoti.com/3dHCdAc) as another option.
On more reflection, the ESEE Avispa would be another good option and the blade is thinner so might work for paint lid prying (gah, I cringe just saying that lol!). D2 steel, frame lock, washers, open back, and well under $50: kcoti.com/3o7oyHK
Drinking game. Watch these vids and drink every time he says “choke”. Lol. Great vid as always. Fun to listen to. Question: why do people like deep carry pocket clips?? Seems like such a silly trend. Less to grab to take knife out of pocket. With the clip so high on the handle you have to grab it, which squeezes it tighter to you pants pocket. Seems like it was invented for paranoid people thinking people are looking at your pockets. Thoughts?
It is in fact for people who don't want to be seen obviously carrying a knife on them. I wouldn't call them paranoid, because in some places, carrying a pocket knife is kinda frowned upon. As silly as it may sound, some people really are freaked out when they see someone else carrying a pocket knife on them. I recently got a Benchmade Bugout after losing my Kershaw Leek, and when I visited my mom and showed it to her, the first thing she had to say about it was, "Wow its a lot less obvious that you have a knife in your pocket now".
I can kinda understand your points. Seems odd that a pocket clip would make people think “knife”. I put this out their because I was very paranoid/self conscious when I began carrying a concealed pistol. I would always think people could see it(aka printing). Six years later and I realize no one is examining your belt line for bumps. Even if they do they assume it’s a normal item. I feel knives are the same way.
How many cutting implements would be enough for staying in the woods for the rest of your life? I mean if SHTF and society is not able to recover itself. I am thinking about at least one: survival knife; folding saw; folding knife; machete; hatchet; multitool and a fixed blade for food.
Two each of the following for every man, woman, and child in my party: Belt Knife Skinning Knife Bucksaw Miter Saw Folding Saw Two-Human Saw 18" Machete 12" Machete Bowie Hatchet Felling Axe Splitting Maul Chef Knife Paring Knife Fillet Knife Bread Knife Meat Cleaver Butcher Knife Wood Plane Set of spoon gouges Set of chisels Set of whittling knives Grooming Scissors Fabric Shears Straight Razor Nail clippers Swiss Army Knives Leathermans Hunting Spear Throwing Spear Arrowheads Frog Gig Probably more that I am forgetting. If civilization fails, I want to have the tools to create our own civilization, or more likely die trying! -DCA
Can you talk a bit about what steels are safe for food prep? I bought an Esee AGK and they basically tell you the steel is full of harmful chemicals. And yet it's a game knife. What's up with that?
1095 is perfectly fine for food prep, and I dont know what they're referring to about harmful chemicals. Honestly you're probably better off with that knife than the cheapo kitchen knives most people buy at like Walmart anyway in regards to harmful substances in your food
@@tristanmurphy4731 Maybe they are referring to the blade coating? I don't know... the knife came with a card with warnings that the FDA hasn't approved it for food use.
Yes, it is the coating they are worried about here. Wash it and you should be good, but the texture will impede efficient food slicing. Any steel under the sun (that I know about) will work without worry of harmful elements getting into your food, again, provided it has been cleaned.
@@jakematthews2458 thanks, im useing a worksharp benchstone, which has a ceramic plate and have been using that to touch up the blade but is effective enough
An axe is for chopping. A knife ain't. You can fell and limb a tree if need be with an axe. Try that with a knife and you'll break it. A knife is for cutting and slicing. I take both, since its mighty difficult to gut and peel a critter with a axe. "Right tool for the job." That isn't always a knife.
I don't get your view. Axe OR knife?? Why 'or'? First, if you head out into Fed land you are required to have both axe and shovel. Second, why would you expect to do axe tasks with a knife and knife tasks with an axe? Makes no sense. If you Want to survive then you have BOTH. This fantasy scenario where if you prep you only prep a knife or axe, and then you survive with only that out in the end of the world is horse crap. Both. And more than one knife.
DCA, I know you work for a knife store but it never feels like you’re “selling” me something. Just a dude who loves knives.
I think that’s why I keep watching, thank you sir.
Thank you for the kind words J.W. - I don't take that trust lightly -DCA
Survival pro tip, if you need a spear in a survival situation, grab a stick, put a tip on it and use it that way 😉 worked for hundreds of years quite well... 🤔
Thanks David, really appreaciate the "no nonsense" reviews/commentary.....
The two Mora models you presented are good for wood carving if you are carving occasionally. However, Mora makes a line of knives that are fantastic carving tools. I have a 30-gallon trash can full of wood chips made with them. They use wood handles and laminated steel blades. The issue with plastic handles is they just don’t provide the control of wooden ones. The oval shape lets you find the perfect angle and position to make cuts. The laminate steel blade cuts so smoothly I seldom needed to sand my finished projects. I made a fallen wild cherry tree in my backyard into wooden spoons, spatulas, and bowls for a year before it was all used up. Then a maple fell; and well I continued using it up too. All the things I made were carved without a single power tool; just a bow saw, axe, hatchet and Mora wood carving knives. I wanted to learn about carving wood and I sure did. There were quite few more cans full of wood chips during my learning process however, I just saved one. I tried all kinds of different types of whittling knives and blade steels; none beat Mora models.
Thanks for the feeback Gizmo! -DCA
Great video. I love the snow and neally hatchet you showed at the end. I've been using mine for about 2 years camping in all sorts of weather. The edge it came with was meh, but tunes up quickly with a file.
Thank you for taking these questions! Informative as can be,
Best knife shop channel by far! Love these David, great work mate! 👍
Thanks for the kind words Simon! -DCA
Really like the look of the CRKT Overland. The Cold Steel Ultimate Hunter is another great one too.
Yes I totally agree with you on the spear thing......sharpen a pole/stick then harden the point in the coals of your fire... never risk loosing or breaking your knife.
I have a Kabar BK9 in my go bag, I sometimes put a Schrade camp axe in there too...sometimes I take it out. I go back and forth with it. Wasn’t it Rambo First Blood where Rambo killed a pig with a knife on a stick when that became popular with “survivalists”?
Thanks David for answering! Decided to take Hultsbruk, which is in my country in Europe more commonly called Hultafors, they are a beauty!
Interesting presentation. I'm especially taken with the little Moraa carving knife that I somehow hadn't heard about before. FYI, one of my favorite tools for foraging, bush crafting, etc is a tomahawk with a hammer type poll. They are generally lighter than a hatchet but longer and the extra reach can come in handy.
Wow that Bareknuckle looks Great , thanks for the suggestion..!!
In the past, Dave, I commented on your conversational style in a negative way.
I take that comment back and if I could remember the episode, I would delete that comment.
You have proven that you do "know your stuff" and communicate your knowledge effectively. Sorry for my ignorance.
P.S. My Metamorph is also a difficult to front flip knife...requires frequent practice. If I put that knife away for a week or two...my first attempt to front flip is usually failure.
It takes strength and courage to acknowledge our errors and apologize. Respect to you.
Thank you for the kind words Blue Eyes White Dragon. No hard feelings and thanks for sticking around! -DCA
The CRKT Chogan tomahawk is amazing for bushcrafting
Finally, a d2 Dozier version! I’m definitely buying this one
The Eldris plastic sheath can be used as a handle extension .
I usually let the weather decide the axe vs chopper for me. Spring and summer w wet green wood gets the chopper. Fall and winter w dormant or frozen wood gets the axe
I don't bother with a chopper. Folding saw and a Mora works well enough for summer stuff. Axe for tougher work.
Thanks for answer!
Got myself a kizlyar supreme malamute bare blade when the email dropped. Hopefully I'll get around to making a handle + sheath this week.
Awesome video as always Mr Anderson!
Two a day, my 34 year old pre hook and pin Swiss champ and a Gerber Gator in 154 CM that I love and have had for about 2 years. When dressed for lazy 90+ degree days around the house I've been known to just carry a Gerber LST ultra light which was my Dad's and was his favorite pocket knife for it's lightweight, low price and good quality.
Husqvarna makes a quality reasonably priced small forest axe, highly recommended
And a very nice little knife at a great price too.
@@bosse641 unfamiliar with their knives. I'll stick with my Morakniv. Quality inexpensive perfect tools. Many generations refined to perfection.
A man with a knife can survive in the woods, but a man with an axe is king.
Your explaination for not using a knife for a spear tip is very well put.
Most "survival types" today will tell us to sharpen the stick to make a functional spear, and not risk the knife for a questionable weapon.
The Kellam H Roselli, Finnish Long Hiking Axe, Hand Forged Carbon Steel Head - R850 is the camp axe I would like to get. Sure can do a lot of fine work with that choke hold and various tasks around camp.
I've got blackwasch Bareknuckle, very good and funny to play with knife!
Hey amazing content....again....you guys are killing it. Please do share some of the must have collectors knife in the next one for new enthusiasts who are working on building their collection. Keep it below 200 $ if possible. Things like kershaw leek, spyderco para 2 or 3, ontario rat 1 and 2, civivi elementum mora garberg etc etc
great video thanks. I like and have a couple of them.
Great as always! Totally agree with the spear thing. If carving and hardening a wood pole isn't cool enough for someone, pick up a few Esee arrowheads (or similar) and lash'em til your heart's content. :)
I'm a backpacker, when processing wood for fires in the backcountry, I use an Ontario RTAK-II for chopping and/or batoning. 1095 steel is great b/c it's easy to sharpen, very forgiving and can bend slightly as necessary when batoning through knots in logs. Swinging a hatchet (or ax) that far from urgent medical care is too dangerous. The Becker BK9 looks great for wood processing. Have WD-40 handy for lubrication and temporary moisture protection, 1095 steel can stain and rust quickly.
Get a Marine Raider SP-10 and chop much more efficiently than your RTAK.
Got a carving jack that is the king of whittling!
Excellent
Like the series
Tbh i don't like the Eldris for carving (too short and clunky) but i really LOVE the carver, my best carving knife and the most used for this task... 👍🙂
Really cool🙂 man if you can get away with it use the right tool for the job. A 4 to 5 inch knife for carving/slicing. A saw for bucking. A pack axe (around 24”) for splitting and chopping. I guess if I could only take one it would be a very beefy knife like my BK2
Agree Husqvarna axes are great and reasonable price. Throw a small silky saw and voila! This is exactly what I carry including a Mora 1 C and Opinel 9 C
I agree with carbon steels for wood.
That Hunt M-18 though... 🤤
David! I'd like to see your suggestions regarding kinife-multitool combos for 3 different scenarios.
Work(consruction)
Edc(office/city enviroment)
Outdoors(bushcrafting)
Thanks you!
The Leatherman Wave covers a lot of this ground; if not a slim SAK version might fill that role.
I have an s.o.g tomahawk, a Camillus ravenous (tiny wee hawk) and when camping love them both. that alongside my Glock Austrian army issue field knife. love the show, my question is this, is spring steel with a nitride coating better outside than say a super stainless ?
Hey David, could you speak about the applications of a (non-karambit) hawkbill blade design? How would one go about sharpening a hawkbill? Are there any other downsides to this blade shape beyond that? I like the Kershaw Launch 10 more than a Boker Kalashnikov because the arch of the hawkbill is more subtle. The Bestech Ivy from a few weeks ago really sparked my interest in them. Thanks.
Any knife is always handy no matter where you are. But when you start talking about other tools, the environment you expect to be in makes the decision for you. Snowboarders and back country skiers usually carry a shovel. Cavers carry multiple sources of light. In the desert water carrying and portable shade becomes primary. Many people do research in the back country, to them binoculars or sample gathering equipment might be key. Or how about that unique hammer that most geologists carry? But for me it's all about the shoes. If I'm going to be moving 8 to 10 hours a day on foot, it doesn't matter what I'm carrying if my feet hurt.
What are your favorite knives with an Emerson style opener choosing not only from Emerson branded knives, but anything similar as well.
Hey Jean Eche, try look out for the Civivi Plethiros, similar style like the Chef and still have a big name stand behind it design
Another good suggestion! -DCA
Could you do a comparison of the Kizer Fiest and the Civivi Exarch? They're really similar but are much differently priced
Love the videos! Maybe you can help me out? I’m looking for a full tang bowie type knife. With micarta or g10 scales. With a 7-9 inch blade. Something with good stainless like 440C, 9CR18MOV, 9CR19MOV, 154CM, S30V, S35VN, or Elmax. Thank you.
However, for bush craft Batoning with a knife, although more comfortable and manageable, does not replace a good hatchet for more serious work
Have you done a review of the Kershaw camp 10
Why do so many people focus on knife vs axe or having one big knife thats supposed to do everything but can't?
Don't they know the classic rule of thumb that one is none and two is one ?
A small axe or a hatchet ( or machete in jungle like environments ) ,a medium belt knife, and a good multi blade pocket knife for detail work is what you want.
Not a giant knife that you think will do everything or an axe over 2.5lb in most cases.
The woods trio is known to be the best choice, and of course having multiple cutting tools in case of loss or breakage is a good idea.
18:33 I also hate "one knife options" type questions, as it is not realistic.
I adhere to the "survival trio" doctrine [large knife, saw, and smaller knife]. My personal selection is: Cold Steel Trail Master San Mai III, Silky Gomboy/Bigboy (depending), and a Cold Steel SRK San Mai III. With these one can cover most if not all survival tasks. Also, axes are inherently more dangerous in the hands of all but experts in their use.
Maybe the subject for an in-depth study DC?
1095 folder i think Condor's krakatoa, and the big ol Tops BOB. No real flippers i can think of
What fixed blade knife would you recommend for edc? Something with decent steel and preferably stainless and below 4 inches of cutting edge
A used knife is way hotter than a new one. Gives it personality
Be very careful with black coated blades for food prep. Some can cause cancer! On a better subject. Thanks for showing! Has for carving, you are right about the steel. It helps when using them, strop regularly. It keeps the blade perfect.
I would say A2 is best carbon steel for wood carving just my 2 cents.
I find it amazing that the mythology of the dangerous hatchet/axe is so entrenched in peoples minds that it has become fact. I have not once, ever, seen any of the myths proven in use. All axe accidents happen the same as knife accidents only a large knife is harder to maintain, has more edge to cut you with, is more likely to break and is impossible to repair in the field. Now, familiarity plays a huge part in the decision to carry a hatchet/tomahawk or large knife (an actual axe shouldn't ever be compared to a knife). If one is trained with a knife, take your knife, if one is more familiar with the hatchet or tomahawk (in reality the more intuitive tool) then you should take that.
In reality both will do the same job with equal ease with no real winner in function.
Is it just me or does the TM Hunt remind anyone else of the TOPS Tom Brown Tracker?
In a survival situation can bodily fluids prevent corrosion on teh blade?
I believe the tops knives Scandi flipper is 1095
Not anymore. N690 now.
Finally my Search Is Over, because you gave the run down on the T.M. Hunt M18. There is an Old Deer Hunting Wooded Lava Flow 5 Mile Long Trail with limited Road Access, but the 4x4 can get to us if they know where we are. That has Two More Obsticles like 80 degre Heat, and or then it can Snow on you. So my quest has been to find a Lighter than an Axe Wood Splitter to make a Sweedish Log Fire for; Signaling to the 4x4 squad to come give me and my partner a ride out with our Deer Hunting Prize. The Problem is that it might take the Recovery Team 4 hours to find us, pack out, and a little less time now that they know the route. So during this waite time I can, clean the deer, warm some snow for water, stay warm, make some tea; while, the 4x4 tries to find the "I got a Deer" Signal Fire. So thank you for helping me with my Deer Hunting 40 Year Long Dream.
WTF are you on about?
@@CadillacDriver Why is your channel so empty?
@@joecasarez7062
@Joe Casarez oh, you're one of "those" people 🤦♂️
You do realise users can come on here just to watch videos, right?
I hate people like you who think a barely used or new channel is somehow suspicious. You have no idea about my actual YT history and how long I've been a user.
What do you think of the Timber Rattler outlaw bowie? Also the CRKT Woods Chogan tomahawk?
Timber Rattler - I don't trust anything that big that is that cheap. The Chogan however is very nice for the price. Hope this helps! -DCA
For me...ALWAYS a knife.....axe is good but there are just so many things it can do. Same with a knife but the value of the things that can be done with a knife out weight those that can be done with an axe....well in my experience. Give a choice I would choose knife every time. I like your points though so nice video! As for what knise and steel....steel is important. as I am a knife maker myself I can tell you that really dose matter. You can ague all you want on that point but different steels have different properties and I personally AVOID stainless unless it is rwl 34 steel. ONE MORE thing...I really dislike these mass produced factory knives....get yourself a proper hand made knives or MAKE one yourself.....best thing I ever did. fits me and is personal and now I sell them too.
Hey there!
My question is: What makes the Sebenza different form the Inkosi? Is it just the finger grooves? Or anything else?
Thanks for the great videos!
The new Sebenza 31 brought some of the Inkosi improvements over to their flagship design. These days the Inkosi has finger grooves and a shallower hollow grind, which sits somewhere between a flat grind and the deeper hollow on the Sebenza. -DCA
That M-18 is wicked 1 fund out abouter 4 hrs b4 watching this . the kershaw 7777 bareknockle is a great choose but witch variant?
For me personally, I'd go for the Champagne Gold version with 20CV blade, but more folks seem to like the Earth Brown/20CV version.
Wish I could find one of those T.M. Hunt M-18's. Do they discontinue because of a lack of interest? To maintain rarity value? Or just because the maker wants to move on to other things? Probably some combination of all three. But dang, wish I could find one of those.
Todd took a small break from them in order to get some new projects off the ground, but the M18 is his signature blade and he has definitely not discontinued them. We will definitely have more once he gears up for his next batches.
@@knifecenter Awesome! Thanks for the update. I’ll keep my eyes open.
CRKT must be the only company left trying to get $50+ for 8cr13mov. A bit disconnected in my opinion. For the young man looking for a carbon steel flipper. Check out the Tops Mini-Scandi folder. It’s a flipper and 1095 carbon steel. It’s around $90 or so and made in the USA. Not sure if KC has them, but I know at least one major blade retailer who does.
Great suggestion if he can find an older one. TOPS uses N690 on the MSF nowadays.
Found one with 1095 in stock. Of course I won’t post the link here on KC’s channel. I’m sure he can find it.
Knife will get you so far, but put an ax in your pack will make you wanna build a log cabin lol I do love my gf small forest axe!!
@PennsyltuckyBooj yes silky big boy I did have the 170, still do use it but recently upgraded to the big boy, DCA recommend it and it is awesome and I dot see nothing wrong packing both, hell I do lol plus 2 fixed blades and 2 folders lol. Now that might be over kill.
Hi I am looking for a small cheap and non locking pocket knife do you have any
I think that the axe would be best for survival
Hi David,
Greetings from The Netherlands. Big fan of your videos.
I heard you use the term "beater knife" once. It was in the context of a knife that was very good quality, but one doesn't have to be too careful to use it due to the low price. I was wondering, could you tell us your favourites? If you can give us your advice maybe in a KnifeAQ or even in a whole line-up, that would be great.
Again, love your vids, so thank you so much for that.
Friendly greetings,
Erik
@knifecenter
Oh I mean edc folding knives btw :)
Ontario RAT 1
@@CadillacDriver appreciate your thought, thanks. Here in The Netherlands it's 97 dollars however, which does not make it a beater knife for me.
@@EerAzuil about the same here in New Zealand. How about a CRKT Squid?
Small but effective.
@@CadillacDriver that does seem nice and right... they do make it with a stronger steel I see. Sadly only for sale in their own shop, wich does not ship to Europe...
Opinel has got some carbon steel folders.
But not flippers
Formosan indigenous tribal folks attach poles to their knives to kill trapped wild boars.
They call knives with wooden handle as working knives, hollow ones hunting.
Cold Steel Bushman is a homage to their hunting knife.
We all know we need that spear to fend off a bear. :)))
Why do people focus on balance points for folding knives? I personally only see any use on it for balisongs and swords/long blades
Balance is key in kitchen knives as well
@@christianswahlstedt933 fair point
The more neutral the balance, the easier it is to handle as you aren't fighting the weight distribution of the handle or blade. Admittedly this is a less important thing on smaller folders, but it is worth talking about. -DCA
@@knifecenter the fact that you reply to questions like this is the reason why I subbed! Thank you!
A knife: for eating and whittling, and Axe: everything else
David, what are your thoughts on matte black vs shiny silver pocket clips. Do you have a preference? The reason I ask is that shiny clips attract unwanted attention to your pocket knife while black pocket clips are more subtle. The last thing I need is a random Karen screaming out, “why are you carrying a knife?!?!” while I’m out in public. Am I in the minority here because besides benchmade, most knife companies put out shiny disco ball pocket clips.
Discretion can be important. For discretion when wearing blue jeans, a matte black pocket clip suits me, as does a wire deep carry clip. For khakis, wire is definitely the way to go.
David what company gives the best value for price. The whole most bang for your buck thing?
Cold Steel.
Morakniv, without a doubt, is the best bargain in the knife world -DCA
Hello D.C.A., David, I always love watching, plus being a certified "knife-aholic", that T.M. Hunt of yours went "TWANG" in my head as soon as you picked it up!😱 Is that something that you carry and what's the "ish cost"?🤔 I'm sure it's out of my wheelhouse, but when I hit the "lotto" my wishlist will drop significantly.🤗 The thing of the lotto isn't the odds against winning (that's those who want to sound smarter than they are) since I did well in college statistics, it's simply you're going to win or lose, that's it! It is the ONLY way to pay so little and gain so much, plus it does one more thing which is VERY beneficial to the buyer, it buys HOPE!🧐 Life without hope, isn't a good life, period!😖 Just sayin'. Thanks, take care, "God Bless", sincerely, Randy.👍👍🙏🏻😇👊
They are hard to find right now because Todd (Hunt) has paused them to get some other projects off the ground, but when he gets back to making more we will surely have them back in stock. They are all handmade and run around $500.
@@knifecenter "HOLY SMOKESCREEN BATMAN"! Ten Grant's, that'll take a yr. if I could save to get it. Oh well, just another shattered dream.😢 That's the story of my life.🙄 Everytime that happens "I feel like the dog that just got kicked"!🤔😯 Oh well, what can I say. Thanks for the info, have fun and be safe. Take care, "God Bless", sincerely, Randy. 👍👍🙏🏻😇👊
@@randyscj429 calm down.
before we begin, *pulls out kukri to check all the boxes*
Hello world from England, just say hello
Hello Maz!
@@knifecenter thenx for welcoming me
Question, I would like a knife that’s rough and tumble, that can be used heavily one hand open and closed. I’m a carpenter currently carry a mini grip with a thumb hole, love it. But sometimes use my knife for opening cement bags and grit gets in the bar lock. I do light prying typically opening paint can type lids. Also would like a little longer blade. I would like it to hold a good edge, I’m often cutting 6mil plastic and craft paper, that’s a struggle without a sharp knife. My budget is $50-$100 if it goes over a bit that’s OK because I want quality. I know I’m asking for a lot but could you make a fixed blade recommendation as well. Thank you, can’t wait to get your feedback!
(Edit)
Also I’m going to be a first time buyer from knife center and thought it would be cool if my first purchase was a recommendation from you David. Thanks.
Hey so you probably won't like it but my delica 4 has opened more concrete bags, and paint cans than I can count. The steel holds a decent edge but personally I never get plastic to cut well unless the edge is brand new. I've also never had a problem with grit in the pivot. As for how I open paint cans the space just above the thumb hole first perfectly in the gap for paint cans
Dillon West it’s funny that you started your comment with “you probably won’t like it but” because I’ve personally thought that Syderco knives where overrated for some reason. Although, honestly I’ve never had one. I had a cara cara Bird that I loved in stainless but gave it away. And come to think of it I bought a Spydy fixed blade for my Pops that’s sharpens up nice. I’ve never had an issue with grit getting into the lock bar but it’s in the back of my mind because of the opening. Thank you for your feedback, I’m considering all options although wouldn’t want to give up any blade length, I’ve had my eyes on a Houge Deka but I just want to make sure it’s durable.
My gut says something with a sturdy lock that is easy to keep clean. Something with an open back and washers in the pivot (instead of bearings that can get gummed up with dust). Framelock too, rather than something like a liner lock (again, les susceptible to grit and easier to clean). I would suggest the Boker Plus F3.5. Nice, sturdy and thick blade and all of the above for just under $100. As D2 steel tends to stay a bit toothy, it should do well on the plastic stuff too: kcoti.com/3dLRUGL
Thanks for the question! I definitely want to find a spot to talk about this on one of the next videos -DCA
As for paint lid prying, have you considered a pocket prybar type of thing? I can't stop ya, but I never recommend even light prying with a folder.
For fixed blades, a Mora Pro (kcoti.com/348CI3f) is cheap and effective, or you could go with a Cold Steel SRK-C (kcoti.com/3dHCdAc) as another option.
On more reflection, the ESEE Avispa would be another good option and the blade is thinner so might work for paint lid prying (gah, I cringe just saying that lol!). D2 steel, frame lock, washers, open back, and well under $50: kcoti.com/3o7oyHK
Drinking game. Watch these vids and drink every time he says “choke”. Lol. Great vid as always. Fun to listen to.
Question: why do people like deep carry pocket clips?? Seems like such a silly trend. Less to grab to take knife out of pocket. With the clip so high on the handle you have to grab it, which squeezes it tighter to you pants pocket. Seems like it was invented for paranoid people thinking people are looking at your pockets. Thoughts?
It is in fact for people who don't want to be seen obviously carrying a knife on them. I wouldn't call them paranoid, because in some places, carrying a pocket knife is kinda frowned upon. As silly as it may sound, some people really are freaked out when they see someone else carrying a pocket knife on them. I recently got a Benchmade Bugout after losing my Kershaw Leek, and when I visited my mom and showed it to her, the first thing she had to say about it was, "Wow its a lot less obvious that you have a knife in your pocket now".
Some of us work in professional environments where having an inch of pocket knife sticking out of the pockets isn't ideal
You were reading my mind weren’t you?
I can kinda understand your points. Seems odd that a pocket clip would make people think “knife”. I put this out their because I was very paranoid/self conscious when I began carrying a concealed pistol. I would always think people could see it(aka printing). Six years later and I realize no one is examining your belt line for bumps. Even if they do they assume it’s a normal item. I feel knives are the same way.
How many cutting implements would be enough for staying in the woods for the rest of your life? I mean if SHTF and society is not able to recover itself. I am thinking about at least one: survival knife; folding saw; folding knife; machete; hatchet; multitool and a fixed blade for food.
Two each of the following for every man, woman, and child in my party:
Belt Knife
Skinning Knife
Bucksaw
Miter Saw
Folding Saw
Two-Human Saw
18" Machete
12" Machete
Bowie
Hatchet
Felling Axe
Splitting Maul
Chef Knife
Paring Knife
Fillet Knife
Bread Knife
Meat Cleaver
Butcher Knife
Wood Plane
Set of spoon gouges
Set of chisels
Set of whittling knives
Grooming Scissors
Fabric Shears
Straight Razor
Nail clippers
Swiss Army Knives
Leathermans
Hunting Spear
Throwing Spear
Arrowheads
Frog Gig
Probably more that I am forgetting.
If civilization fails, I want to have the tools to create our own civilization, or more likely die trying!
-DCA
Axes require some training, this is a must.
Absolutely! That is why I mentioned my comfort level in my answer. Thanks for the comment good sir. -DCA
Council Tool Axes
Knife+bow saw=unlimited wood and kindling
My thoughts: You need both a chopping tool & a cutting tool. Using one to do both tasks is not efficient.
That's the only correct answer. Surviving with single one is dumb.
Can you talk a bit about what steels are safe for food prep? I bought an Esee AGK and they basically tell you the steel is full of harmful chemicals. And yet it's a game knife. What's up with that?
1095 is perfectly fine for food prep, and I dont know what they're referring to about harmful chemicals. Honestly you're probably better off with that knife than the cheapo kitchen knives most people buy at like Walmart anyway in regards to harmful substances in your food
@@tristanmurphy4731 Maybe they are referring to the blade coating? I don't know... the knife came with a card with warnings that the FDA hasn't approved it for food use.
Yes, it is the coating they are worried about here. Wash it and you should be good, but the texture will impede efficient food slicing. Any steel under the sun (that I know about) will work without worry of harmful elements getting into your food, again, provided it has been cleaned.
Knife
Q: Knife or Axe for Survival?
ME: Yes. *pulls out Condor Mini Duku Machete, Stainless Steel version*
@Paul B. I LOVE this thing!
@Paul B. Nice!
How do you even sharpen a 204p blade?
204p is so fine grained that stropping is enough to keep it sharp.
As for getting a good edge any medium will work but I prefer diamond stones.
@@jakematthews2458 thanks, im useing a worksharp benchstone, which has a ceramic plate and have been using that to touch up the blade but is effective enough
Lots of folks prefer diamond stones, especially if any kind of reprofiling or edge repair is needed.
Knife ? ... esee 6
Axe ? .... cold steel pipe hawk
First! Whatever that's worth..
congratulations , your (im first ) prize is in the post 🙃👍🇬🇧🇺🇲
DCA. I don't have to watch the video. A knife isn't a AX and a AX isn't a knife. That's all anyone needs to know. Thanks for sharing.
Q: Knife or Axe?
A: Kukri.
u can do almost anything a knife can do with an axe. give me an axe all day
Axe V knife: So laughable... anytime a knife guy makes the argument they show a HUGE knife that weighs almost as much as the hatchet.
An axe is for chopping. A knife ain't.
You can fell and limb a tree if need be with an axe. Try that with a knife and you'll break it.
A knife is for cutting and slicing.
I take both, since its mighty difficult to gut and peel a critter with a axe.
"Right tool for the job." That isn't always a knife.
The moral of the story is carry a shit load of knifes.
I don't get your view.
Axe OR knife?? Why 'or'?
First, if you head out into Fed land you are required to have both axe and shovel.
Second, why would you expect to do axe tasks with a knife and knife tasks with an axe?
Makes no sense. If you Want to survive then you have BOTH. This fantasy scenario where if you prep you only prep a knife or axe, and then you survive with only that out in the end of the world is horse crap.
Both. And more than one knife.