Winkler knives are great knives, but I would change three things. One, they cost too much for the materials they use. Two, pinned handles can be knocked loose with no way to tighten them out in the field. And three, natural wood handles tend to crack imo. Micarta is more reliable. If they changed those three things, I can’t think of a better knife.
all points made 💯 on the money ?....I guess Winkler thinks theres a lot of value in the name...mmm.....Id easily drop that kind of money on a Randall....but definitely not so much for a Winkler
It is around 380-400 euros in Europe, that is just ridiculous, you can get an entire collection of 80crv2 knives from Varusteleka for that..also the only site I found it on labels it as discontinued. Other than that I really love the old school design of it. Thank you for another great video man.
Agreed. For the same money you can buy a Busse Combat. Their infi steel is among the best, craftsmanship, fit and finish is flawless, and the best part; UNCONDITIONAL Lifetime warranty!
I wanted to mention the Skrama line, too. So it seems the Winkler prices are not really related to the basic materials. The tapered tang takes skill to fit the scales to, but the rest of the retail seems fame-related. BUT : If they sell, they are by definition not overpriced. Just like Rolex.
@@B51608 for half that price you can buy a custom handmade handcraft and forged knife in 80crv2 in Europe tbh. At 61/62 hrc tested, with whatever handle you want and a WAAAY better leather sheath. Slavs are experts for this, US made doesn’t even come close in quality. Rolex sells because of status, not because of craftsmanship, btw. Seems like the same here, someone wants a specific brand, not good value or good craftsmanship for the money.
The Varusteleka Jakaripukko is a great blade for what it costs plus the nice leather dangler sheath it comes with. I've used mine a lot and it has become one of my favorites. The Case and Wrinkler blade is more geared towards a specific market with it's features, but isn't a game changer or strong competition to many other types and brands on the market that vary in prices that can do the same tasks.
My experience with 80crv2 is it is the best of the simple carbon steels better than 1075 or 1095 and holds it's edge better than 01 and sharpens easier than all 3
So, I am going to have to say something that will piss off the whole Spec-Ops thing that is incredibly common in the knife world. I've known many Rangers, SOF guys and run of the mill Infantry. Almost none of them carry any type fixed blade. Yes, they occasionally get them issued to them through unit funds, but they rarely actually carry them. Almost all of them carry a folding Gerber or a folding Benchmade.
@@gideonstactical One thing I forgot to mention. They do love them some seat belt cutters (if that counts as a fixed blade). Now, I will certainly shell out cash when a SOF guy says Seat Belt Cutter XYZ is the best ever.
@jay cube ... I served a tour of duty as an Army NCO in the 16th Infantry Rangers in III Corp RVN, 68-69. I carried a Buck General for several months. I remember cutting vines with it once in triple canopy jungle. I snapped it off at the hilt one day. I never replaced that knife for the balance of my tour and never missed it once. ... Were I to do that same tour of duty over again, I'd carry a Swiss Army Knife with scissors, tweezers and a saw blade. I'd probably also carry a Spyderco Military folder or a Spyderco/Perrin Street Bowie in River City kydex, probably as a neck knife.
Dude, great opening, eloquently said. I have a ton of black walnut I cut up with a chainsaw that I'm keeping for eventual Knife Handle Scales. I plan to start making my own knives and I love the look of Black Walnut. I have Hickory, Red and White Oak, Maple, Curly Maple, Cedar, and Persimmon put back for whatever, like Axe Handles, Tomahawk Handles, and Knife Handle Scales. Got a ton of Birch Bark, Cedar Bark, and a literal Rubbermaid Tote filled with Fatwood lmao. Perks of working on a golf course for years.
When I worked in Yellowstone National Park, the summers of 85.91 and 95. The knife I always carried when hiking was my good old Buck 119. In 1985, I bought my first big knife the Western W49 and I also carried that. I still have it. I have so many knives of all shapes and sizes. Of Late I am into Neck Knives, and Khukuri's. I'm a knife addict :)
I have had the wood version for a couple of years, would trust my life on it. I have never heard of a winkler knife pin handle coming loose. As for the natural wood just rub it down with a little oil every once in awhile it will last a lifetime. I got my from Cabela's in a sales tax free state with military discount for $284.99.
Not a terrible knife design but it's ridiculously expensive. You can get a custom in virtually any steel & handle material you want for the same or less. 80crv2 is a dirt cheap carbon steel.
Man! I always wanted a Winkler knife. They are horribly expensive, but as you said, these tools are for life. I use a Rat Rc 4 (ESEE 4). In the woods or mountains I feel like I’m missing a limb, without it.
From what I remember the skinner was one of his originals. For that model you should have just got the Winkler. It comes with a better sheath. I got the Case Hambone because it’s not one of his models. Try the rubber handle too.
If I may, I would suggest a knife that I think you would like very much. It is made of 80crv2 steel and is relatively cheap, the terava mini puko85 is an excellent knife that is unfairly overshadowed by its bigger brothers.
I owned the black micarta version and the first thing I did was get a taco style kydex sheath for slim profile. Nice knife and great design but I prefer a girthier handle.
I always wondered if the Case versions of the Winkler knives were better than the ones straight from Winkler. I have a Winkler field knife with the WORST edge I have ever seen on a knife. Its primary bevel is the same profile, on the surface, as what you have but the final v-grind secondary bevel is super shallow. It can split wood but it cannot shave wood for feathers. It cannot cut paper or whittle. Basically, it is horrifyingly bad.
You might be interested to check out the J-P Peltonen Sissipuukko (Ranger Knife). Same steel but a combination of the traditional Finnish puukko and a military knife. Quite a bit cheaper too :)
@Dustin Kallinen ... Having read several articles and an interview with J.P. Peltonen about his Sissipuukko, I've been attracted to it, but just never pulled the trigger to purchase one. ... I'd forgotten the steel used is also 80CrV2. Thanks for the reminder Dustin. ... I'll take another look at it.
Happy to see old Persian shape knife that has been here even before the Iron age is redeemed by a Western artist this great and beautifully introduced by you. Thank you
It does have a Persian flair. That style made a deep impression on the French, and they made many knives of that style for the fur trade in North America. Battle Horse Knives has multiple models with that type of profile.
Assuming prices are close I would personally choose a Winkler made blade rather than a Case made version (even though Winkler have 'approved' the process or whatever). Case lovers might find some joy in this knife as it's something different to what case normally do and no doubt performs well. I agree with the heritage vibes of this knife - I've purchased a couple of Condor blades over the years for the same reason. Personally too expensive for me but - but I think the pricing is fair enough for US hand made. Sharp blades all.
I had bought a Winkler Camp knife last year but the handles are so narrow I had to return it. They were great as far as the return was concerned, and the steel finishing part of the knife was superb, just the handles are very narrow. If you have big hands, they may certainly be too narrow for you. I am 6'4, 215 lbs, (tall and slender to average weight/build)..
according to all the tests, the 80crv2 keeps the blade sharp 20 percent longer than the 1095, and one interesting thing is that in salt water it does not rust easily but turns black.
Yeah, 80crv2 vs 1095 its basically comparing Europe vs US. One will try to emulate the other, but in the end the first one outperforms it in everything.
@@johanesgo8096 I have a Serb custom in 80crv2, hand forged and hand made for 300€, 62hrc with walnut and wolf bone handle, scrimshawed, almost same price as this Case, with the difference that the quality product is abyssal between the two. The Slavs know how to make quality tools.
@@johanesgo8096 yeah I love Slavs handmade stuff. They are so much quality and really good price. Serbs, Croatians, Bulgaria, Slovenia, all wonderful stuff. Kudos to you guys!
Have you checked out 15:58 Knife Co. out of Texas? They have a style very similar to this and are made by a guy named Josh Fisher. I'd love to see this Case/Winkler next to the 15:58 Revere. The Revere is a touch smaller with a 4" 52100 blade.
Possibly, that plastic inside the sheath makes it much easier to insert the knife. These straight spine blades tend to stick and hang up going in, and Case knows this is true. So does Winky. These knives owe everything to the fur trade days of colonization and conquest. A simplified version of this design was produced by the gazillions in the 18th and 19th century. Mr. Winkler is spot on with this and Mr. Case is on the program!
Love to see a review on the fox knives octopus vagarus vg10 sanmai.. all reviews I've came across are Russian or Italian German ect. It looks promising. Just a suggestion. Unless there are obvious downsides I'm not aware of, and the sheath looks really good as well
Winklers are great knives, l have a couple. Owning that case just feels like blasphemy. Lol! Another maker along the same lines is Busse Combat (and yes l own 3). If you ever get a chance I'd love to see you run a Busse thru the Gideon ringer?👍
@@N3wbMa5t3r That's a beast of a knife. I've got a mean street ergo in sr101, game warden infi w/black crinkle coat finish, and the only one l just didn't have the heart to use; custom shop active duty infi w/giraffe bone handle (looks like it belongs in a museum).
@@N3wbMa5t3r Busse makes limited runs on all their knives and there's a small group of guys that follow them around the country to blade shows and by up all their inventory. They sit on them for a couple years, mark em up 3-4 times and they just go up from there. The last active duty they made was l believe in 2017, and they'll never make another one. The one l have is a masterpiece and l don't even touch it!👍 I'm not a collector, l bought it to use, but as l said, as soon as l picked it up l just knew it'd be a safe queen. I'll give it to my grandson (he's 3) someday!😊
The wood handled knife really has a vintage look to it like a mountain man 200 years ago would have carried. A lot of times they would trade for a good kitchen/butcher knife. That's what attracted me to the Turok. It has a similar look but is under $100 with a great sheath. That Case sheath is disappointing given the price.
I think $200 woukd have been a great price for this. I dont appreciate knife companies doing this tactic of "we took their design, made it in our factory, slapped their name on it but also slapped their price tag on it"
What's the folding saw/blade on the red bandana, toward the end of the vid? Also, is it just me, or is the Skinner just a beefed-up Operator? Great video as always!
Can you do the tops wild pig hunter? It’s a knife I’ve been doing research for but no other channels goes to such detail and performance feedback like you do!! Keep it up man great video/s big fan!!🔥🔥🔥
Thanks so much, glad you enjoy the videos. I am not sure if I will get to it soon. What are you wanting to do with it? The main issue I have was a very sharp edger on the guards made it uncomfortable when I handled it. That is way I like the TOPS US Combat Knife better ergos Way More Than A Combat Knife! TOPS US Combat Knife - RUclips m.ruclips.net/video/Qz6jHlRzw-4/видео.html
Dang I hope you will be able to soon or one day. And well utility purposes like you did for this video because it’s called a “pig hunting knife” but there are mixed reviews that say it’s only a pig sticker and some say you can do much more with it so I feel like your breakdown can give alot more insight, not only for me but many other’s who would enjoy this knife since it is a pretty good design that fits my style
And it also has a small guard that supposedly is perfect since it has no hot spots and I’ve noticed on a couple of knives that you’ve reviewed including the link you showed me that it all depends how your using it. Which is practically another reason I would love to see you review this knife because it’s also on the larger side of fixed blades
Surprised how pricey they are for a Case. I’ve got a few Winklers that are solid users but on the pricey side for what they are. They are super thick behind the edge. Would love for you to bring Carothers Performance Knives on your channel. By far the best fixed blades I’ve come across. Best handles, best grinds and great heat treat
Good point! I have a CPK HDFK and it is my best knife, with the SYKCO DB-421 being a super close second. Only issue with CPK and SYKCO is they can be very hard to obtain.
I guess it depends on the winkler? I have a woodsman that was very thick behind the edge but now performs great when I took the edge down to ~15 DPS. I also have a blue ridge Hunter that is an incredibly good slicer straight out the box despite the 0.18” blade stock.
I just ordered the Skinner in the G10 version because that's the only version available in Germany. Rightafter, I called Jürgen Schanz, one of our most famous knifemakers in Germany, to ask if he can replace the G10 scales for wooden ones. He told me he knows the knife and replacing the scales is no problem for him. :P #sparingnoeffort :D
Hey! I always try to catch your videos. I appreciate the reviews that you do. I just found out about Swisstech having a new line of knives at Walmart. Micarta handles for Aus-8 steel with a xlaim of titanium coating, red accents. The Wurdig model looks sweet. They also have a fixed blade with a ferro rod attached to the sheath. I believe they also have multi tools. I would be super interested to hear if you have seen these yet or if you think you will do any reviews.
Anything at Walmart is under done. Meaning they cheap out to the lowest possible price in order to sell it there. Avoid anything they sell. There are plenty of other great cheaper options that you can get elsewhere that will be worlds better.
A great review of a very nice knife. Absolutely accurate technical thoughts, plus great background information and best entertainment. Thanks for this once again great video
Regarding the winkler . I love the shape . I love the style . I love the steel .I love the file work on the spine . it’s too thick though for me .I use knives For cutting not pry bars and that makes it a deal breaker for me .
Ridiculously, nonsensical cost considering materials, overall workmanship, sheaths, etc. While Winkler itself (as well as Case) has a fan-base name/following, and there are folks out there that don't blink an eye for the trigger-pulling indulgence into high high cost vs. relative lower value ratio purchases... There is little to nothing special or mind-blowingly cutting-edge regarding materials and design. Even at 1/2 the asking price... I'd relate the same thing!!! 80CRV2 has been a go-to and favorite, dependable steel selection for me over the years. Very good, high-value to lower-cost ratio, super reliable, well-designed 80CRV2 knives can be had at a fair-minded, small fraction of the Winker and Case asking.
100% agree with you that there are similar styles at 1/3 the cost. Of course, the design is not for everybody. But it’s a type of knife you get once in a lifetime. I think of a retirement gift. what would mean more, to get a Rolex or a Casio. Both are good in their own right for telling time and do similar things but everybody has a Casio and Rolex stands out. It’s special. I don’t know that’s just me. 👍
100% agree with you that there are similar styles at 1/3 the cost. Of course, the design is not for everybody. But it’s a type of knife you get once in a lifetime. I think of a retirement gift. what would mean more, to get a Rolex or a Casio. Both are good in their own right for telling time and do similar things but everybody has a Casio and Rolex stands out. It’s special. I don’t know that’s just me. 👍
Question.. I'm really debating the blue ridge hunter....Jesus though..... Freaking expensive..thoughts on that..watch you a lot.... Trust you... It's a big purchase for me ..just bought a tops dart..love that one..this however..I'm smitten..lol
All I can say is that they are excellently built. I have zero complaints with my version. It’s more about the aesthetics and the build materials than it is about performance when you start getting to these levels.
Beautiful knife and I love carbon steels but in my opinion they want way too much for them. I have to admit that I can't see paying over $150 for any knife. Just don't make sense. Maybe if I had thousands of dollars of disposable income I'd see it differently but don't think so
If those knives are loaned, I personally would shed a tear when they went back. Yet at 375 or thereabouts actually seems like a bargain for a legacy knife.
Seems like a beautiful knife and while it's different with a design by a man with significant background, it's not something that I see that I have to have that will work better than what I currently have. My favorite blade still has to be my Tops Silent Hero, the design of that knife with the leather sheath makes it such a good combination, especially with the HC steel differential heat treat, not to mention a price point that's half of what the C&W blade is, but if that's someone's jam, more power to them, everyone has that one blade they love and fits them more so than others 🤷.
Depends on what you call working "better". 1095 was all the rage for a few years, but personally I'm slowly replacing all of those. The edge retention just sucks for an outdoor knife, even if it is easy to sharpen. All that ultimately matters is what you're happy with and what works for you, but to pretend a Winkler wouldn't outperform 1095 is virtually everything (and for $50ish less, not half the price) is disingenuous.
@@Swearengen1980 You're not wrong there. The types of steel definitely matters as far as what a users preference and needs are, but for me and what I prefer, what I have works fine, even if it needs more occasional maintenance.
@@toddk1377 Fair. I just hate, for example, stopping to hone a blade while I'm skinning a buck compared to being able to skin and process 5 before I have to touch it up. You truly do get what you pay for with certain blades.
Winkler makes excellent products but he's gotta get over himself on the prices, they are awesome knives, yes they are designed with input from navy seals, yes they have become synonymous with special operators, however it's still a knife, it's not Damascus, it's not crafted in any special way it's just rugged but basic so realistically all winkler knives should be selling for $150 to $200 heritage doesn't make a knife that you're supposed to actually use worth $500+ that being said I can order some of this steel, cut out this shape, grind it, sharpen it, coat it, put a nice handle on it and it probably wouldn't cost me more then $100 and that's with leftover steel to make more. Now that's because I have the tools to do that but it's worth mentioning that these are being marked up by so much compared to the cost to make them.
Yeah, and how much of this $300+ knife reaches your pocket? Remember, if someone is trying to sell or get you to buy something that they won’t invest their own money into you probably shouldn't either! Before you 'buy' anything make sure the person pushing it isn't looking for affiliate money! Generally they will push the products that make them the most money and not necessarily the best items for the job!
Thanks for the comment. Never said it was a high value item. It is pricey but love it. Highlighting that the sheath isn’t great and if you stuck around till the end you saw that comparison of a 3V blade that has better sheath options and a better steel. I don’t care who does or doesn’t pick on up. As always giving actual use and and break down of the blade for those views who are interested can choose from themselves.
Winkler knives are ridiculously expensive & the looks are plain & the materials are dirt cheap. I made a bushcraft knife out of 5160 for under $60 a few years ago heat treating 5160 is very easy at 57-59HRC it holds a razor edge forever.
not sure why knife is designated as a skinner - obviously one can use any knife as a skinner but the blade profile is definitely lacking the "belly" required to perform as an efficient skinner. winkler knives are absolutely top shelf stuff but wouldn't classify this knife as a skinner
That is not the style of the the knife that is the knife name. Kevin Hollands nickname was “skinner” in the teams is my understanding. So it is named after him. But I am sure you could skin with it’s too.
Trade u a mint condition hair popping BHK Lumberjack toothpick in O1 tool steel leather sheath brown non polished micarta handles for g-10 version of the winkler skinner the BHK Lumberjack toothpick is a great blade would make a great video a hair cheaper than the winkler but it’s brand new never used besides shaving some hair off my arm it’s just a little big for me to carry while hunting though it can do anything batoning camping hunting probably not a great fishing knife with it’s uncoated O1 steel blade I will send my blade 1st so u can be 100% sure your not being messed with etc. 🙏
When you said the molecular structure of the steel I died laughing sorry! I love these reviews but "The Molecular structure" had me rolling.....Like what did I get myself into here LOL!!!! No but awesome looking blade I wish I could afford one just to try out...
@@gideonstactical That's alright, I've been looking through a bunch of sites since watching your video a day ago and have not had any luck so thought I might as well ask. Thanks for the quick reply ^^
100% agree with you that there are similar styles at 1/3 the cost. Of course, the design is not for everybody. But it’s a type of knife you get once in a lifetime. I think of a retirement gift. what would mean more, to get a Rolex or a Casio. Both are good in their own right for telling time and do similar things but everybody has a Casio and Rolex stands out. It’s special. I don’t know that’s just me. 👍
@@gideonstactical seems you have a good reason to defend the knife, but for the materials used, I could get some thing of equal quality and some other things to go along with it, but if it was a gift for what ever the reason I'd make sure for 350.00 the steel its self would hold up to the test of time. There is alot companies with twice the steel for alot cheaper. IMO
Winkler knives are great knives, but I would change three things. One, they cost too much for the materials they use. Two, pinned handles can be knocked loose with no way to tighten them out in the field. And three, natural wood handles tend to crack imo. Micarta is more reliable. If they changed those three things, I can’t think of a better knife.
Right on, as I stated there is a g10 or micarta versions available. 👍
@@gideonstactical yes, I spoke prematurely. You covered that after I commented.👍🏻
Yep, I agree about the pinned handles.
all points made 💯 on the money ?....I guess Winkler thinks theres a lot of value in the name...mmm.....Id easily drop that kind of money on a Randall....but definitely not so much for a Winkler
@@yankee23a have you owned one? I’m a pretty thrifty person, and have never regretted buying a Winkler.
It is around 380-400 euros in Europe, that is just ridiculous, you can get an entire collection of 80crv2 knives from Varusteleka for that..also the only site I found it on labels it as discontinued. Other than that I really love the old school design of it. Thank you for another great video man.
Agreed. For the same money you can buy a Busse Combat. Their infi steel is among the best, craftsmanship, fit and finish is flawless, and the best part; UNCONDITIONAL Lifetime warranty!
I wanted to mention the Skrama line, too. So it seems the Winkler prices are not really related to the basic materials. The tapered tang takes skill to fit the scales to, but the rest of the retail seems fame-related. BUT : If they sell, they are by definition not overpriced. Just like Rolex.
@@B51608 for half that price you can buy a custom handmade handcraft and forged knife in 80crv2 in Europe tbh. At 61/62 hrc tested, with whatever handle you want and a WAAAY better leather sheath.
Slavs are experts for this, US made doesn’t even come close in quality.
Rolex sells because of status, not because of craftsmanship, btw. Seems like the same here, someone wants a specific brand, not good value or good craftsmanship for the money.
@@clintwestwood3539 any makers come to mind ?
The Varusteleka Jakaripukko is a great blade for what it costs plus the nice leather dangler sheath it comes with. I've used mine a lot and it has become one of my favorites. The Case and Wrinkler blade is more geared towards a specific market with it's features, but isn't a game changer or strong competition to many other types and brands on the market that vary in prices that can do the same tasks.
My experience with 80crv2 is it is the best of the simple carbon steels better than 1075 or 1095 and holds it's edge better than 01 and sharpens easier than all 3
Good to see Case expanding their offerings. Have always been attracted to that French Trade design. If I didn’t already have 4 similar blades...
Finally, I received one today the Blue Ridge Winkler and the HT is spot on, and maple handle is perfectly comfortable, and US made thank goodness.
So, I am going to have to say something that will piss off the whole Spec-Ops thing that is incredibly common in the knife world. I've known many Rangers, SOF guys and run of the mill Infantry. Almost none of them carry any type fixed blade. Yes, they occasionally get them issued to them through unit funds, but they rarely actually carry them. Almost all of them carry a folding Gerber or a folding Benchmade.
Fact check true, a buddy of mine regularly ditched his kabar for more ammo in Iraq.
@@gideonstactical One thing I forgot to mention. They do love them some seat belt cutters (if that counts as a fixed blade). Now, I will certainly shell out cash when a SOF guy says Seat Belt Cutter XYZ is the best ever.
@jay cube ... I served a tour of duty as an Army NCO in the 16th Infantry Rangers in III Corp RVN, 68-69. I carried a Buck General for several months. I remember cutting vines with it once in triple canopy jungle. I snapped it off at the hilt one day. I never replaced that knife for the balance of my tour and never missed it once. ... Were I to do that same tour of duty over again, I'd carry a Swiss Army Knife with scissors, tweezers and a saw blade. I'd probably also carry a Spyderco Military folder or a Spyderco/Perrin Street Bowie in River City kydex, probably as a neck knife.
I've got a Winkler Hunting Knife they don't make anymore, it's like a shorter Field Knife and I absolutely love it. Holding a piece of history.
Dude, great opening, eloquently said. I have a ton of black walnut I cut up with a chainsaw that I'm keeping for eventual Knife Handle Scales. I plan to start making my own knives and I love the look of Black Walnut. I have Hickory, Red and White Oak, Maple, Curly Maple, Cedar, and Persimmon put back for whatever, like Axe Handles, Tomahawk Handles, and Knife Handle Scales. Got a ton of Birch Bark, Cedar Bark, and a literal Rubbermaid Tote filled with Fatwood lmao. Perks of working on a golf course for years.
When I worked in Yellowstone National Park, the summers of 85.91 and 95. The knife I always carried when hiking was my good old Buck 119. In 1985, I bought my first big knife the Western W49 and I also carried that. I still have it. I have so many knives of all shapes and sizes. Of Late I am into Neck Knives, and Khukuri's. I'm a knife addict :)
The Buck 119 is one of my favorite knives of all time & one of the most carried.
Been carrying an SD1 for about 4 years. I try to carry others, but nothing else feels as good. Does everything, and never leaves me needing more.
I have had the wood version for a couple of years, would trust my life on it. I have never heard of a winkler knife pin handle coming loose. As for the natural wood just rub it down with a little oil every once in awhile it will last a lifetime. I got my from Cabela's in a sales tax free state with military discount for $284.99.
Tried multiple knives. Love the look and feel of different knives, but still come back to a Buck knife.
Bought 1 for my retirement present. Loved it so much that I bought another with my first retirement check.
Not a terrible knife design but it's ridiculously expensive. You can get a custom in virtually any steel & handle material you want for the same or less.
80crv2 is a dirt cheap carbon steel.
That is a winkler, pricy but awesome
Aye, Case knives tend to be rather disgustingly expensive for, what I can tell, no reason.
Man! I always wanted a Winkler knife. They are horribly expensive, but as you said, these tools are for life. I use a Rat Rc 4 (ESEE 4). In the woods or mountains I feel like I’m missing a limb, without it.
I’m glad it has a REAL sheath !!!
From what I remember the skinner was one of his originals. For that model you should have just got the Winkler. It comes with a better sheath. I got the Case Hambone because it’s not one of his models. Try the rubber handle too.
If I may, I would suggest a knife that I think you would like very much. It is made of 80crv2 steel and is relatively cheap, the terava mini puko85 is an excellent knife that is unfairly overshadowed by its bigger brothers.
I owned the black micarta version and the first thing I did was get a taco style kydex sheath for slim profile. Nice knife and great design but I prefer a girthier handle.
This was my first winkler and I liked it so much I ordered an sd2
Thank you for making this video, I love Winkler knives and i'd love to see more videos of them
You better start watching all his videos on loop because they are not cheap..lol
This reminds me of Affordable Optics and Rifles when he shows a $4K scope. At least you don't have Affordable in your channel name. lol. Nice knives.
The best knife case ever made was the 366, they dont make them anymore but you would be hard pressed to find a better skinner
Look at the Case/winkler recurve utility #6 knife. It is an awesome field knife and has a great sheath
I always wondered if the Case versions of the Winkler knives were better than the ones straight from Winkler. I have a Winkler field knife with the WORST edge I have ever seen on a knife. Its primary bevel is the same profile, on the surface, as what you have but the final v-grind secondary bevel is super shallow. It can split wood but it cannot shave wood for feathers. It cannot cut paper or whittle. Basically, it is horrifyingly bad.
How long have you had it? I’ve heard that issue was resolved, maybe just a rumor.
Kind of a shame it's so pricey. If it was made of 420HC and around the 80-100 dollar mark I'd be all over it. Would be a great skinner
You might be interested to check out the J-P Peltonen Sissipuukko (Ranger Knife). Same steel but a combination of the traditional Finnish puukko and a military knife. Quite a bit cheaper too :)
@Dustin Kallinen ... Having read several articles and an interview with J.P. Peltonen about his Sissipuukko, I've been attracted to it, but just never pulled the trigger to purchase one. ... I'd forgotten the steel used is also 80CrV2. Thanks for the reminder Dustin. ... I'll take another look at it.
My grail knife! Love that you did a video on it
Awesome!!
80crv2 is great steel. Love it, I'd take it over any stainless any day.
Happy to see old Persian shape knife that has been here even before the Iron age is redeemed by a Western artist this great and beautifully introduced by you.
Thank you
It does have a Persian flair. That style made a deep impression on the French, and they made many knives of that style for the fur trade in North America. Battle Horse Knives has multiple models with that type of profile.
@@sopwithcamelus so true
Thanks Aaron. Sweet looking blade and am sure a great hunting and game processing blade.
Assuming prices are close I would personally choose a Winkler made blade rather than a Case made version (even though Winkler have 'approved' the process or whatever). Case lovers might find some joy in this knife as it's something different to what case normally do and no doubt performs well. I agree with the heritage vibes of this knife - I've purchased a couple of Condor blades over the years for the same reason. Personally too expensive for me but - but I think the pricing is fair enough for US hand made. Sharp blades all.
I had bought a Winkler Camp knife last year but the handles are so narrow I had to return it. They were great as far as the return was concerned, and the steel finishing part of the knife was superb, just the handles are very narrow. If you have big hands, they may certainly be too narrow for you. I am 6'4, 215 lbs, (tall and slender to average weight/build)..
Good feed back!
according to all the tests, the 80crv2 keeps the blade sharp 20 percent longer than the 1095, and one interesting thing is that in salt water it does not rust easily but turns black.
Yeah, 80crv2 vs 1095 its basically comparing Europe vs US. One will try to emulate the other, but in the end the first one outperforms it in everything.
@@clintwestwood3539 I have no experience with 1095 however I have 2 with 80crv2 and I really like the steel, although I prefer stainless steels.
@@johanesgo8096 I have a Serb custom in 80crv2, hand forged and hand made for 300€, 62hrc with walnut and wolf bone handle, scrimshawed, almost same price as this Case, with the difference that the quality product is abyssal between the two.
The Slavs know how to make quality tools.
@@clintwestwood3539 slaveni su najači💪
@@johanesgo8096 yeah I love Slavs handmade stuff. They are so much quality and really good price. Serbs, Croatians, Bulgaria, Slovenia, all wonderful stuff.
Kudos to you guys!
First time hearing about this collab. Got really excited at first thinking it would be way more affordable but nope 😭
somehow bought one for $90. its so simple and perfect. convexed the edge, and only needed stropping after batoning firewood. smells weird at first
That’s a great price!!!
Have you checked out 15:58 Knife Co. out of Texas? They have a style very similar to this and are made by a guy named Josh Fisher. I'd love to see this Case/Winkler next to the 15:58 Revere. The Revere is a touch smaller with a 4" 52100 blade.
$346.99 - That's a lot of clams. Where's it made? Went to their website and that little important tidbit of info is absent. 🤔
Possibly, that plastic inside the sheath makes it much easier to insert the knife. These straight spine blades tend to stick and hang up going in, and Case knows this is true. So does Winky. These knives owe everything to the fur trade days of colonization and conquest. A simplified version of this design was produced by the gazillions in the 18th and 19th century. Mr. Winkler is spot on with this and Mr. Case is on the program!
this knife remember much the peixerinha and modern gaucho's knife
I have the Belt knife, thing is amazing but the handle is almost a touch too short for my large sized hands 😉
great review. always wanted to see a review of these guys, my only holdup is they seem really expensive vs just get a regular winkler model
Love to see a review on the fox knives octopus vagarus vg10 sanmai.. all reviews I've came across are Russian or Italian German ect. It looks promising. Just a suggestion. Unless there are obvious downsides I'm not aware of, and the sheath looks really good as well
Winklers are great knives, l have a couple. Owning that case just feels like blasphemy. Lol! Another maker along the same lines is Busse Combat (and yes l own 3). If you ever get a chance I'd love to see you run a Busse thru the Gideon ringer?👍
BATTLE MISTRESS SR101 🙌🏽
@@N3wbMa5t3r That's a beast of a knife. I've got a mean street ergo in sr101, game warden infi w/black crinkle coat finish, and the only one l just didn't have the heart to use; custom shop active duty infi w/giraffe bone handle (looks like it belongs in a museum).
@@scothighlander9864 Man oh man hang onto those... They have been skyrocketing in price!!! Especially your models which are much more rare. 🔥
@@N3wbMa5t3r Busse makes limited runs on all their knives and there's a small group of guys that follow them around the country to blade shows and by up all their inventory. They sit on them for a couple years, mark em up 3-4 times and they just go up from there. The last active duty they made was l believe in 2017, and they'll never make another one. The one l have is a masterpiece and l don't even touch it!👍
I'm not a collector, l bought it to use, but as l said, as soon as l picked it up l just knew it'd be a safe queen. I'll give it to my grandson (he's 3) someday!😊
I've been debating between the classic Winkler belt knife and field knife, but this looks like the best of both worlds...
Ya it is a good design and different then most of other winklers designs.
Winkler knife is the most awesome fixed knife
It is worth for the price appropriate
Looks like it won't ride up on the hip which is good
The sheath is the best part
@gideon nice video! But it would be even greater if you can actually showcase some of the competitive options that you mentioned?
You can checkout the F4 in my video list 👍
The wood handled knife really has a vintage look to it like a mountain man 200 years ago would have carried. A lot of times they would trade for a good kitchen/butcher knife. That's what attracted me to the Turok. It has a similar look but is under $100 with a great sheath. That Case sheath is disappointing given the price.
Ya wish it was a better sheath.
Speaking of knives that ooze style, has Gideon's Tactical done a vid on the Ethan Beckhart Kephart? The BK 62?
Yes way back when it came out. Go check it out 👍
@@gideonstactical On it
I think $200 woukd have been a great price for this. I dont appreciate knife companies doing this tactic of "we took their design, made it in our factory, slapped their name on it but also slapped their price tag on it"
What's the folding saw/blade on the red bandana, toward the end of the vid? Also, is it just me, or is the Skinner just a beefed-up Operator?
Great video as always!
The knives look well designed. I could own one if they were $300 cheaper.
😂 for sure 👍
Can you do the tops wild pig hunter? It’s a knife I’ve been doing research for but no other channels goes to such detail and performance feedback like you do!! Keep it up man great video/s big fan!!🔥🔥🔥
Thanks so much, glad you enjoy the videos. I am not sure if I will get to it soon. What are you wanting to do with it? The main issue I have was a very sharp edger on the guards made it uncomfortable when I handled it. That is way I like the TOPS US Combat Knife better ergos Way More Than A Combat Knife! TOPS US Combat Knife - RUclips m.ruclips.net/video/Qz6jHlRzw-4/видео.html
Dang I hope you will be able to soon or one day. And well utility purposes like you did for this video because it’s called a “pig hunting knife” but there are mixed reviews that say it’s only a pig sticker and some say you can do much more with it so I feel like your breakdown can give alot more insight, not only for me but many other’s who would enjoy this knife since it is a pretty good design that fits my style
And it also has a small guard that supposedly is perfect since it has no hot spots and I’ve noticed on a couple of knives that you’ve reviewed including the link you showed me that it all depends how your using it. Which is practically another reason I would love to see you review this knife because it’s also on the larger side of fixed blades
Surprised how pricey they are for a Case. I’ve got a few Winklers that are solid users but on the pricey side for what they are. They are super thick behind the edge.
Would love for you to bring Carothers Performance Knives on your channel. By far the best fixed blades I’ve come across. Best handles, best grinds and great heat treat
Great point! I will look into these blades
Good point! I have a CPK HDFK and it is my best knife, with the SYKCO DB-421 being a super close second. Only issue with CPK and SYKCO is they can be very hard to obtain.
I guess it depends on the winkler? I have a woodsman that was very thick behind the edge but now performs great when I took the edge down to ~15 DPS. I also have a blue ridge Hunter that is an incredibly good slicer straight out the box despite the 0.18” blade stock.
Agree on the CPK. Great geometry and designs, best 3V in the business and possible the best Magnacut (from my limited testing).
I really like the wood-handled version. The price is out of my ball park. Curious as to what the little Saw and knife combo sitting to the side is
I little Boker tool. Looks cool but a Swiss Army knife is better.
I just ordered the Skinner in the G10 version because that's the only version available in Germany. Rightafter, I called Jürgen Schanz, one of our most famous knifemakers in Germany, to ask if he can replace the G10 scales for wooden ones. He told me he knows the knife and replacing the scales is no problem for him. :P #sparingnoeffort :D
Wow! That is awesome!!!
@@gideonstactical Yes, I'm really happy! :))
Hey! I always try to catch your videos. I appreciate the reviews that you do. I just found out about Swisstech having a new line of knives at Walmart. Micarta handles for Aus-8 steel with a xlaim of titanium coating, red accents. The Wurdig model looks sweet. They also have a fixed blade with a ferro rod attached to the sheath. I believe they also have multi tools.
I would be super interested to hear if you have seen these yet or if you think you will do any reviews.
Anything at Walmart is under done. Meaning they cheap out to the lowest possible price in order to sell it there. Avoid anything they sell. There are plenty of other great cheaper options that you can get elsewhere that will be worlds better.
Just one competitive option today? Usually there's more. That's actually one of my favorite things about these reviews....
I don’t have many in that price range or steel. Was hard to find various options this time around.
A great review of a very nice knife. Absolutely accurate technical thoughts, plus great background information and best entertainment. Thanks for this once again great video
Cant wait to get one or mabe both. Great video. New to your channel, SUBSCRIBED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Awesome Ben, welcome to the GT family 👍😀
i have wanted a case winkler forever, but they are too expensive for me.
Regarding the winkler . I love the shape . I love the style . I love the steel .I love the file work on the spine . it’s too thick though for me .I use knives For cutting not pry bars and that makes it a deal breaker for me .
Are you saying Winklers don't cut/slice? There's no way you've ever handled one if you're saying that.
It's a beautiful knife, but I'll stick to my Battle Horse Highlander.
Did you find it better than an equivalent lionsteel?
Ridiculously, nonsensical cost considering materials, overall workmanship, sheaths, etc. While Winkler itself (as well as Case) has a fan-base name/following, and there are folks out there that don't blink an eye for the trigger-pulling indulgence into high high cost vs. relative lower value ratio purchases... There is little to nothing special or mind-blowingly cutting-edge regarding materials and design. Even at 1/2 the asking price... I'd relate the same thing!!! 80CRV2 has been a go-to and favorite, dependable steel selection for me over the years. Very good, high-value to lower-cost ratio, super reliable, well-designed 80CRV2 knives can be had at a fair-minded, small fraction of the Winker and Case asking.
100% agree with you that there are similar styles at 1/3 the cost. Of course, the design is not for everybody. But it’s a type of knife you get once in a lifetime. I think of a retirement gift. what would mean more, to get a Rolex or a Casio. Both are good in their own right for telling time and do similar things but everybody has a Casio and Rolex stands out. It’s special. I don’t know that’s just me. 👍
Pricing is just bonkers these days. I can afford it, but why would I when I can get a BPS for $40?
100% agree with you that there are similar styles at 1/3 the cost. Of course, the design is not for everybody. But it’s a type of knife you get once in a lifetime. I think of a retirement gift. what would mean more, to get a Rolex or a Casio. Both are good in their own right for telling time and do similar things but everybody has a Casio and Rolex stands out. It’s special. I don’t know that’s just me. 👍
Question.. I'm really debating the blue ridge hunter....Jesus though..... Freaking expensive..thoughts on that..watch you a lot.... Trust you... It's a big purchase for me ..just bought a tops dart..love that one..this however..I'm smitten..lol
All I can say is that they are excellently built. I have zero complaints with my version. It’s more about the aesthetics and the build materials than it is about performance when you start getting to these levels.
@@gideonstactical I.liked what you said about amount time...that makes perfect sense.. when you really needed it..that hit home brother
Beautiful knife and I love carbon steels but in my opinion they want way too much for them. I have to admit that I can't see paying over $150 for any knife. Just don't make sense. Maybe if I had thousands of dollars of disposable income I'd see it differently but don't think so
If those knives are loaned, I personally would shed a tear when they went back. Yet at 375 or thereabouts actually seems like a bargain for a legacy knife.
Did the prices soar after The Last Mohican or was it the SEALS fame ? I have no recollection, but I assume the latter.
Probably both lol😮
Where can I get a custom sheath for this knife?
Seems like a beautiful knife and while it's different with a design by a man with significant background, it's not something that I see that I have to have that will work better than what I currently have. My favorite blade still has to be my Tops Silent Hero, the design of that knife with the leather sheath makes it such a good combination, especially with the HC steel differential heat treat, not to mention a price point that's half of what the C&W blade is, but if that's someone's jam, more power to them, everyone has that one blade they love and fits them more so than others 🤷.
Depends on what you call working "better". 1095 was all the rage for a few years, but personally I'm slowly replacing all of those. The edge retention just sucks for an outdoor knife, even if it is easy to sharpen. All that ultimately matters is what you're happy with and what works for you, but to pretend a Winkler wouldn't outperform 1095 is virtually everything (and for $50ish less, not half the price) is disingenuous.
@@Swearengen1980
You're not wrong there. The types of steel definitely matters as far as what a users preference and needs are, but for me and what I prefer, what I have works fine, even if it needs more occasional maintenance.
@@toddk1377 Fair. I just hate, for example, stopping to hone a blade while I'm skinning a buck compared to being able to skin and process 5 before I have to touch it up. You truly do get what you pay for with certain blades.
@@Swearengen1980
That's completely understandable and I'd agree, when it comes to knives, for the most part, you get what you pay for.
Winkler made the awesome knives of Last of the Mohicans
Just rewatched the movie!! So good.
Ouch pricy for sure 😬😬guest I'll have to stick with my mora for now🤪🤪
That price is hilarious. 😂
I have 4 Winklers and hate the sheath on all of them
Winkler makes excellent products but he's gotta get over himself on the prices, they are awesome knives, yes they are designed with input from navy seals, yes they have become synonymous with special operators, however it's still a knife, it's not Damascus, it's not crafted in any special way it's just rugged but basic so realistically all winkler knives should be selling for $150 to $200 heritage doesn't make a knife that you're supposed to actually use worth $500+ that being said I can order some of this steel, cut out this shape, grind it, sharpen it, coat it, put a nice handle on it and it probably wouldn't cost me more then $100 and that's with leftover steel to make more. Now that's because I have the tools to do that but it's worth mentioning that these are being marked up by so much compared to the cost to make them.
Feel like the knife community definitely slept on this one.
looks a great knife!
I like these knives , just not the price lol
How's the sharpening on the knife?
Yeah, and how much of this $300+ knife reaches your pocket?
Remember, if someone is trying to sell or get you to buy something that they won’t invest their own money into you probably shouldn't either!
Before you 'buy' anything make sure the person pushing it isn't looking for affiliate money! Generally they will push the products that make them the most money and not necessarily the best items for the job!
Thanks for the comment. Never said it was a high value item. It is pricey but love it. Highlighting that the sheath isn’t great and if you stuck around till the end you saw that comparison of a 3V blade that has better sheath options and a better steel. I don’t care who does or doesn’t pick on up. As always giving actual use and and break down of the blade for those views who are interested can choose from themselves.
Winkler knives are ridiculously expensive & the looks are plain & the materials are dirt cheap. I made a bushcraft knife out of 5160 for under $60 a few years ago heat treating 5160 is very easy at 57-59HRC it holds a razor edge forever.
not sure why knife is designated as a skinner - obviously one can use any knife as a skinner but the blade profile is definitely lacking the "belly" required to perform as an efficient skinner. winkler knives are absolutely top shelf stuff but wouldn't classify this knife as a skinner
That is not the style of the the knife that is the knife name. Kevin Hollands nickname was “skinner” in the teams is my understanding. So it is named after him. But I am sure you could skin with it’s too.
Trade u a mint condition hair popping BHK Lumberjack toothpick in O1 tool steel leather sheath brown non polished micarta handles for g-10 version of the winkler skinner the BHK Lumberjack toothpick is a great blade would make a great video a hair cheaper than the winkler but it’s brand new never used besides shaving some hair off my arm it’s just a little big for me to carry while hunting though it can do anything batoning camping hunting probably not a great fishing knife with it’s uncoated O1 steel blade I will send my blade 1st so u can be 100% sure your not being messed with etc. 🙏
When you said the molecular structure of the steel I died laughing sorry! I love these reviews but "The Molecular structure" had me rolling.....Like what did I get myself into here LOL!!!! No but awesome looking blade I wish I could afford one just to try out...
Nope way too expensive. You can buy a coldsteel master hunter cpm3v for 160 at normal price and on sale for 125-130.
For sure, just won’t have the same knife appeal 😮😂
Do you know if the black micarta version will ever become available?
Not sure, I would just hunt the web? Sorry couldn’t be more helpful.
@@gideonstactical That's alright, I've been looking through a bunch of sites since watching your video a day ago and have not had any luck so thought I might as well ask. Thanks for the quick reply ^^
I'm curious to how many people imagine themselves in the woods using this knife but when it comes to paying for it they say nah..
Could be many 😮
Can you give your opinion on the case rw100 please ?
Not great
@@gideonstactical because of the sheath ?
I love my Winkler/s
I was just looking at a Wrinkler blue ridge hunter. I think I’m sold now
So is this “the one?”
For some it could be
Another tool that says that G10 is not plastic.
350.00 for the materials... nah I'm good
100% agree with you that there are similar styles at 1/3 the cost. Of course, the design is not for everybody. But it’s a type of knife you get once in a lifetime. I think of a retirement gift. what would mean more, to get a Rolex or a Casio. Both are good in their own right for telling time and do similar things but everybody has a Casio and Rolex stands out. It’s special. I don’t know that’s just me. 👍
@@gideonstactical seems you have a good reason to defend the knife, but for the materials used, I could get some thing of equal quality and some other things to go along with it, but if it was a gift for what ever the reason I'd make sure for 350.00 the steel its self would hold up to the test of time. There is alot companies with twice the steel for alot cheaper. IMO
Kinda looks like a heavy CS Roach Belly ^_^
300 plus for 80crv2 lmfao hard fail!
That’s a winkler 👍
Two thousand missions?
I believe that is what I read in his bio. He has Avery long service record since he was in both spec ops and navy seals.