Last year I purchased the Scorpion from the Pathfinder store, when I received it I was so impressed with the fit and finish of the knife that it was like I had seen the light. The handle was perfect for my hands and I could not find a flaw on it. It was then and there that I decided to stop purchasing mass produced knifes and made the commitment to safe my dollars to purchase custom made knifes. After that on Christmas I purchased the Phantom II and once again I was blown away with the quality, the edge, the fit and finish of it. Two purchases that I have been completely happy with, from the Pathfinder Store. One of the makers is Shane Catt great guy who puts a lot of effort in making sure the knives are perfect. I am sure that you will enjoy this knife as much as I have. If you have the opportunity try the Scorpion it is a small knife but that handle.......... Thanks for the review!
just last week I drove to the Pathfinder store in Indianapolis and I bought the Skandia grind camp king I love the knife I have not had a chance to do a review on it. I will be taking it to the bushcraft 2016 meet up in Tennessee in May I expected to do well
that was awesome that ye tested out a PKS knife, ive been wanting to see some reviews on it. whne striking off a knife,, hold the blade downwards and stike the rock so the sparks shower down towards a piece of char on the ground. i have a video where i review the mora bushcraft black where i get a fire started that way, check it out. great review!
Extremely sharp knives make a distinctive sound when cutting wood (leather too), and I heard it when you made feathersticks. That edge is dialed in for sure!
Good review, I too am not a fan of beating up the spine of my knife on Flint, I used my Mora companion for that and it chewed up the spine something fierce to the point that I couldn't use it on the ferrocerium rod, thanks again for the review, I my opinion your the go to guy when it comes to knives.
Been awhile since this video Brian, with their new price cuts I think you should revisit these cause the prices are amazing now. Matter of fact their blanks are probably the best bang for the buck, 1095hc heat treated properly is A-OK in my book.
That looks like a pretty nice blade but $160 with no sheath for a VERY simple 1095 blade seems a bit much. It's hard for me to tell but it looks like the heel of the blade was left sharp and the corners of the micarta grips a bit squarish. With knives like the SCHF42d available this would be a pretty hard sell for me.
I agree watching the review I believe it looks like a good knife but I have a hard time looking at the price and not thinking how much of it is because of the Dave Canterbury brand now I believe he's a good guy and wouldn't put junk out there but for me the most I'd pay with free shipping would be 115 dollars but honestly I have no problem sticking with my schf36 or my schf42D
I have had similar conversations about Glocks vs other pistols. Bottom line, there is a market for knives in this price range and Dave has thrown his hat in the ring.
Survival On Purpose Dave threw his hat in the ring years ago, and did so to our extreme gain!!!! I have learned a lot from him. But it seems that he has forgotten his own past. I remember the days when he filmed himself using a stainless steel dog food bowl in a fire and pliers as it's handle. He was cooking noodles with bits of jerky added and loved it. Just where is that thinking now? His products are top quality without doubt, but over priced. Like Schrade knives.....I can do it all and save some serious money.
Great review, sir. Might I suggest holding the char- cloth on a dry piece of wood with the tip of the knife, and striking (glancing) the spine with your flint (chert) in a downward motion? The sparks will be directed down the blade's spine onto it, and you don't run the risk of whacking your fingers with the blade.
Dang, was hoping you would've since you genuinely seemed to like it. I guess you guys get a lot of knives to review and need to spend time with each one so you're pretty busy with other knives to really go back and use the other review knives that went before them. Was honestly thinking about starting my own channel but I'm pretty sure I don't have the time for it. Well, thanks for responding and also thanks for the wonderful videos.
+Justin Gabor I do like it and I have used it. I only get to go camping about once a month right now and I used it on the last 2 camp outs with the Boy Scouts. I just wouldn't call that long term. I still think it is a good knife.
I'm glad you did this review. The spirit caught my eye on Dave's site, started research and there you are. Impressive that it meets the industry standard too. :-)
PKS did a nice job on this one. $160 is not bad for a handcrafted knife made in the USA . Most of the sheaths that come "with" a knife are crap and people replace them anyway. They learned 1095 from the master of 1095 so there wont be any issues with that. Great review, looking forward to your updates on its performance.
+Jules MacFarlane I don't. They are 2 different knives. Personally, I like this style knife better than the BOB. Both are good knives, I just prefer this one.
Hey Brian! I just love the look of utter joy you get when you "test calibration and balance" on a knife...... B_alance O_rientation A_nd R_otation D_evice I love it!!!!!! (patent pending of course)
Hi Brian, love your channel. I especially appreciate your knife reviews. Do you think you'll be reviewing the PKS Scorpion HD anytime soon? I'm thinking about getting one but I cannot find any reviews on RUclips. I would love to see you review that knife! - David
Brian, I'm a big fan of you channel and I'm grateful for the information you provide I'm currently building a Get Home Bag and a Bug Out Bag, but I had to put it on hold because it's costing me too much money! Ha ha Anyway, my question for you is a trivial one: what's the song that plays over your titles?
I've been eyeing this or the Phantom for some time now. Can't bring myself to spend that on a knife yet. However if I wouldn't have bought all the Schrades you recommended I probably could have bought a couple of them. LOL!
May have to try that. Although I am not all that sold on 1095 steel any more. I always have 3 ways of making fire with me and don't feel like I need to strike flint or quartz. I had an Esee 4 and 5 and was seriously disappointed in them. The handles seemed to vibrate like crazy when I was using a baton and the edge retention was not as good as my Schrade Schf56l or the Schf36. It may be fun to build my own though.
Great review Mr. Bryan. Looking forward to follow-ups. Everything I have purchased from Self Reliance Outfitters (Pathfinder Store) has been top notch, quality gear. Even their budget Ferro Rods are great. As for the mercury in cold bluing, neither of the two major brands I have, list mercury in the contents. Of course I have no idea what the PKS uses but I doubt mercury is involved. The active ingredients in cold blue are normally mild acids to darken the metal. Hope this helps.
Great review Brother! I am going to continue to stick with my Trade Knife with all of the similar fetchers for about 2/3 the price, but It looks like a great knife. Thanks for sharing!
my style of knife but that price without the sheath is a rip off. i bought a similar knife with sheath from primitive forge on ebay . it was much less even encluding postage to the UK. didn't see pepe this vid. did the scouts get him ?
Why, oh why do so many folks call stuff a rip off just because it is more than they would pay. No offense intended, seriously, but the term "rip off" implies dishonesty and I just don't see how that applies to something where the price is known up front and nobody is forced to buy it. And, especially when the manufacturer sends it out for independent testing to folks like me who try to demonstrate the capabilities of the product so you have more info than just the sales and marketing details. Sorry for the rant but it seems like any time I review something that is at all "high end" somebody calls it a rip off and I just don't think that's fair. Again, sorry for the rant.
+Survival On Purpose never used the term rip off. i like dave canterbury and love his channel. saving up for a plsk1. just stating you can get similar knives and standards at a more affordable price. not disrepecting anyone.
+new2survival I meant no disrespect to you either. And you may not have meant it in a desultory manner; but, if you take another look at your original comment, you'll see what I mean in the first sentence. I didn't mean to go off on you either, that topic has just been on my mind lately and your comment tipped the scales. Please forgive me. Stay safe and be prepared.
Well go figure. I thought that knife looked familiar. ESEE was supposed tp be making one just like it for their Camp lore series in partnership with Canterbury. It has mysteriously vanished from their site and now this appears in Canterburys store. Don't get me wrong. I like the knife, and had planned on buying the ESEE when i came available. It just looks like my money is going elsewhere. I wonder what the fallout was this time.
I think Dave is heading toward focusing on his own brand. I guess if I had my own knife shop I would probably minimize the partnerships with other makers as well. Bottom line for me is whether the knife is good or not. And, so far, this one seems good.
Another one I like a lot! If you still have it.... how 'wide/tall' is the blade at the back. Love the fact that's it's 3/16 thick and it's made of 1095! That's one of those 'shaving' knives when you loose your razor..... hehehehehe
That really looks like a great knife! I'm not partial to the coating per se, would like the same knife without it, but it's still an awesome blade. Honestly, the only problem is the price. I know you get what you pay for, but unfortunately, that's a bit outta my range. Other than that though, i'd get it in a heartbeat.
Bryan, I beg to differ. Pine is fantastic for feathering, it just depends on what type of pine you're talking about. White pine is awesome for feathering. I've made feather sticks that were larger than my head with white pine! So to just make a blanket statement that pine isn't good for feathering is not true. Also, why would you ever need to cross baton firewood??? That doesn't make sense to me. Either burn the piece of wood into smaller sections or simply break it in the crotch of two trees. The only time I could see cross batoning making sense would be for shelter building and/or trap triggers/ notching purposes, not fire prep.
Oh I can completely understand that. I was just confused when you said that you were cross batoning for the purposes of fire craft. Regardless, great review! I am really interested in this new line of PKS knives Dave has released.
Two of my phantoms were defective. That's not a problem. My problem was their bad customer service and actual attitude when I returned it and asked for another. They sent it to me with the exact same problem the first one had! I loooved the knife but could not accept their sighing and attitude when I returned the next one for the same issue after being promised it would be double checked. The attitude was basically "what's your problem this time?" as opposed to being more careful with what they let go out the door. When you're a small shop that shouldn't be hard, especially as much as I paid for my Phantom 2.
That knife is very nice and if it had one of the major brand names on it people would be saying positive things. Yes the price is a bit high but compared to other hand made blades its right in line, yes maybe a cheap sheath would have been ok BUT then everyone would freak out about the sheath being subpar. Its much to hard in this glut of a market to compete with big brands and those who use overseas labor. If I had the money I would buy the knife just to support my fellow brethren here in the U.S but boy its hard when you can buy a Schrade 42 or Condor Bushlore that does all that you need it to for 45$. Great review brother and I'm sure if people could hold that knife and feel what you are feeling their comments might be different.
I could hold the knife and like it and I still wouldn't buy it for 160 bucks I just feel like the Dave Canterbury brand is why it costs so much. now I'm sure that people who wanna pay to go to his school will fork out the money for the knife but I'd rather stick with what I have
I get it. And this knife is not right for everyone. That's why I like Schrade so much because they do a good job on budget knives. But for someone willing to pay for a USA made, handcrafted knife this could be a good choice.
I saw a video Dave did introducing the Pathfinder Knife Shop and he basically said there were a lot of great knives out there and he just wanted to make his another choice for folks.
Yea I hear ya I like Dave and maybe if I didn't buy a schrade I'd be more willing to pay 160 dollars but who knows maybe the price will come down a bit I did check his site out tho and he has one on it for about 109 which is more my price range
Good review of what looks to be a nice knife. Bryan I know you like the Light my Fire ferro rods, as do I; I found a better way to strike those ferro rods better and more consistent and controlled with just one or two strikes. May I suggest you watch the video I learned this way from; it is called "How To Create Really Big Sparks With A Swedish Firesteel" Just looking to share something I learned with someone who I have learned other things from, Thanks for sharing your knowledge and opinions Bryan!
+84neilbone I think the price is very competitive with other USA made knives of the same workmanship and quality. And I also think they just eliminated a bunch of hassle by offering the sheaths as an option because lots of folks do custom sheaths these days and if you don't want theirs you don't have to pay for it.
Well Bryan as a knife is concerned...it rocks!! Damn, I love it!!!! But with 160 bucks plus 30 bucks for the sheath??...well...no matter how much I love it, and I really do like it a lot, I cannot afford it. Sigh. Sooooo, I'll stick with my Schrade knives complete with serviceable sheaths in the 40 to 50 dollar range and will still be able to get the job done. I guess my point here is, I'm in what used to be called the middle class. You know...those who built this nation? And that class has been almost destroyed over the past 8 years. I love ol Dave...always have for so many years, but perhaps he should once again remember that I'm not alone in my economic situation. Ah well....that is indeed a great knife. Thanks for the review my friend.
I hear you. I just don't think there is any way a small USA outfit can get pricing even close to a major company with offshore manufacturing. Gerber does a good job of keeping the price down on some of their USA knives but they have a better shot at economy of scale.
mate...I am hearing you....the good ol USA is now a failed state...sold out to the multi nationals who made their fortunes in the usa on the back of your hard work, natural resources and can do attitude....and then moved off shore to increase their profit margin.....total shame...hoping you guys take your country back!
I have a forest tool. They are doing a fantastic heat treat and the handle has great ergonomics for such a simple design. I cleared a trail including hacking a 10" tree in half with it. The black is untouched and shaving sharp.
+84neilbone I have several other 1095 steel knives and I can't seem to do well with all of them. I'm fine with my dedicated fire steel. And the bottom line is that the hardness needed for a good fire steel/striker is really too hard for a working knife blade so a knife will always be a poor substitute in my opinion. That's why I always carry a lighter ;-)
Liked and enjoyed your presentation. Not having one in my hands... I'll take a stab at what I observe are some validations as well as some redress issues with this knife. Confirming the overall lineage is relatively obvious: this is a trade knife/Ray Mears knife/MORA combo. All these as stand alone types have their optimal purpose with traditional and well founded pros. On other hand...combining or connecting these design traits into an all-terrain sort is sort of limiting/congesting the traditional pros within their niche while also introducing to even exaggerating some contradiction for intended uses. In a way let me say as an example --- attempting to use a single all conditions camouflage with the expectations of equal hidden characteristics for urban, woods, dessert, and snow environments. Tho the knife looks nice, Ill have to admit it lacks identity, exhibits on your video some shortcomings mentioned above, is overpriced for what it is, and I'll go a step further to call it somewhat representative of a salesmanship blade. Concerning the 'blued' blade... if it is "cold-blue" process often the active agent is Selenium Dioxide... this stuff is for looks or touch-ups at best. This practice (if that's what it is) is like spending a dime on company time, you paying a dollar, and it will go to crap in the rain.
+Survival On Purpose Not too certain why 'pathfinder-branding' does this sort of stuff other than hit or miss sales opportunities. If it is a little item to keep the doors open and folks are into it --- I get it & no big deal. Flip-side is that this redressing combo of design is reminiscent to another pathfinder (in my opinion) poor selection to combo large outdoor knife with a MORA companion style knife. Often times the more one seeks to combine that one tool option the further it gets from optimal for anything. It works its way right outta simplicity, reliability, and predictable function. This is not anything personal to pathfinders or the review... but if you thought this is "just a nice knife" it would be best plus way more informative in all fair play to further review and compare it head to head with its combo of pedigree. I'll wager you will come to a similar conclusion on several of my points.
+Skeptic Spartan To me, it looks like a very common traditional design that pretty much everybody has "copied" for the last couple of hundred years. As for Dave, he is that guy who publicly admitted and apologized for his errors. We've all probably done some things we aren't proud of. I know I have. He's also that guy who has created well over 1000 free videos sharing his knowledge and education progress with anyone who wants to learn. I know I am starting top sound like a groupie but I'm just being honest with you. Dave was one of my inspirations for starting this channel and I have learned a lot from his videos over the years.
Survival On Purpose I supposed your right, its popular design. As for Dave, yes he makes a lot of videos. But knowing that he has inflated his expertise, I don't know if I can trust him when it comes to potentially life saving advice. I'll stick to the Pros. Anyway great videos, keep em coming.
I was interested in this knife until you mentioned the price of $159.00 too expensive for what it is , and the bluing on the blade no way should anyone want that . You are better off buying a LT Wright GNS for $180.00 from DLT Trading or elsewhere in O1 steel . The GNS is a way better knife and handle and you can use it for food prep safely in the steel used.
They have dropped their pricing considerably since I made this video. You might want to give them another look. Of course, LT Wright makes excellent knives for sure too.
Nice knife but i think it's overpriced. For the price of the knife and sheath you can get a semi custom knife made (i have two from Lucas Forge, you can see my videos on those and there are other knife makers) and you will get better steel and be able to pick options on the build and they include an excellent wet formed sheath. This looks like a good knife just not a great value in my opinion.
+Survival On Purpose When you think you can get 3 Condor Micarta Bushlores for this price you have to really fall in love with it to pay that price....
Nice, basic design. Of course these days the market is glutted with similar knives so there really is no reason to pay $160 US unless you must have a Pathfinder endorsed blade for name alone.
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
I love the pathfinder stores merchandise.Another great knife from another great store.
+John Harmon I think so too.
Beautiful knives. Love their entire selection. Never can have enough knives. Great video, take care. God bless you and your family.
knife*
Wonderful knife! Essential: elegant blade!
Last year I purchased the Scorpion from the Pathfinder store, when I received it I was so impressed with the fit and finish of the knife that it was like I had seen the light. The handle was perfect for my hands and I could not find a flaw on it. It was then and there that I decided to stop purchasing mass produced knifes and made the commitment to safe my dollars to purchase custom made knifes. After that on Christmas I purchased the Phantom II and once again I was blown away with the quality, the edge, the fit and finish of it. Two purchases that I have been completely happy with, from the Pathfinder Store. One of the makers is Shane Catt great guy who puts a lot of effort in making sure the knives are perfect. I am sure that you will enjoy this knife as much as I have. If you have the opportunity try the Scorpion it is a small knife but that handle.......... Thanks for the review!
+Raymond Carvelli So far I am impressed with the knife. It just does knife stuff very well.
I like this one. They've come out with a nice selection of blades in the last 6 months.
I like it too.
Great review I had my eye on a few pathfinder knives like the scorpion. Hope they send you that one to review as well.
You never know
just last week I drove to the Pathfinder store in Indianapolis and I bought the Skandia grind camp king I love the knife I have not had a chance to do a review on it. I will be taking it to the bushcraft 2016 meet up in Tennessee in May I expected to do well
I'm sure you will.
Thank you for the review Mr. Bryan.
+gus1911 Thanks for watching.
that was awesome that ye tested out a PKS knife, ive been wanting to see some reviews on it. whne striking off a knife,, hold the blade downwards and stike the rock so the sparks shower down towards a piece of char on the ground. i have a video where i review the mora bushcraft black where i get a fire started that way, check it out. great review!
Thanks for the tip. I have tried every way I know of with other carbon steel knives with little success.
Love God Love your channel. Thank you Brian looks like a winner
+KK Prepper I think so too.
Thanks much for your time and hard work!! I really like your videos a lot and how honest you are ! Blessings to you and yours!
+MrSIXGUNZ Thank you
a simple yet very usefull design, i enjoy your videos
Thanks
With the requirements Dave looks for in a bushcraft knife. You know it has to do what is needed. A very nice looking knife. Thanks for the video
It is a very useable knife too.
this looks so professional and nice
+Frank Heinrich It is a nice looking knife.
Brother Bryan thanks for the info on the Spirit. Will be looking forward to the follow up reviews. Nice job as always...your efforts are appreciated.
+Tony Leroy I am looking forward to using this one Tony. It is really satisfying to slice those paper thin feathers.
Pks has some awesome bushcraft knives.
Great review of what looks to be a near perfect knife...thanks.
+Bill K. It is sweet.
I love it when Brain rambles! haha
+Aaron Bressman Ramblin' happens ;-)
Great thorough review, thanks Bryan.
Thanks.
Another great review....can't wait to see your review after you put it through some heavy duty use...thanks
+Lenley Melvin I can't wait to use it a lot
Bryan. I own th PKS Scorpion and I love it. i have no doubt that th Spirit would perform as well.Great video.
It is simple but effective
great review sweet knife reminds me of my bk 17 size wise great size knife for the younger crowd too thanks for the video
So far, I think it's a great knife for any crowd
Extremely sharp knives make a distinctive sound when cutting wood (leather too), and I heard it when you made feathersticks. That edge is dialed in for sure!
+csh 62 I know, it's like music to my ears.
Looks like a nice knife. ..Thanks. ..
+Frank Webster itbis
Beautiful blade!
+Bob Wampler I like it.
Good review, I have the Phantom II By PKS and love it.
That's good to know
Nice review. I'll be looking forward to seeing how this knife holds up, specifically how well it holds the edge. Keep up the good work!
+mentokyo1 So will I but I have no concerns
Nice knife. Great video, Brian. My Jeff White Bush One is about the same knife.
+RDLaw88 Cool. Thanks
Is the Spirit knife endorsed by Mr. Stinky? 15:44! Love your work Brian!
+Andrew Kincade Hmmm
I really like this knife style and black and blue theme. This one just looks awesome. I wonder the HRC they cooked them at?
+cyclist01222 I have no idea.
Survival On Purpose At one time Dave had mentioned a wide range which had some concerned.
Good review, I too am not a fan of beating up the spine of my knife on Flint, I used my Mora companion for that and it chewed up the spine something fierce to the point that I couldn't use it on the ferrocerium rod, thanks again for the review, I my opinion your the go to guy when it comes to knives.
You are too kind
Been awhile since this video Brian, with their new price cuts I think you should revisit these cause the prices are amazing now. Matter of fact their blanks are probably the best bang for the buck, 1095hc heat treated properly is A-OK in my book.
Yep, they are a great deal
That is a beauty :)
Thanks for the review - Martin
Thanks
Great vid Bryan, keep it up
+Cameron Renteria Thanks.
That looks like a pretty nice blade but $160 with no sheath for a VERY simple 1095 blade seems a bit much. It's hard for me to tell but it looks like the heel of the blade was left sharp and the corners of the micarta grips a bit squarish. With knives like the SCHF42d available this would be a pretty hard sell for me.
I agree watching the review I believe it looks like a good knife but I have a hard time looking at the price and not thinking how much of it is because of the Dave Canterbury brand now I believe he's a good guy and wouldn't put junk out there but for me the most I'd pay with free shipping would be 115 dollars but honestly I have no problem sticking with my schf36 or my schf42D
+Blue Mountain Bushcraft and Outdoors
Amen. Nice knife without doubt, but I can't afford it. Sad to say.
I have had similar conversations about Glocks vs other pistols. Bottom line, there is a market for knives in this price range and Dave has thrown his hat in the ring.
If it ain't broke don't fix it.
Survival On Purpose Dave threw his hat in the ring years ago, and did so to our extreme gain!!!! I have learned a lot from him. But it seems that he has forgotten his own past. I remember the days when he filmed himself using a stainless steel dog food bowl in a fire and pliers as it's handle. He was cooking noodles with bits of jerky added and loved it. Just where is that thinking now? His products are top quality without doubt, but over priced. Like Schrade knives.....I can do it all and save some serious money.
Great review, sir. Might I suggest holding the char- cloth on a dry piece of wood with the tip of the knife, and striking (glancing) the spine with your flint (chert) in a downward motion? The sparks will be directed down the blade's spine onto it, and you don't run the risk of whacking your fingers with the blade.
+Johnny I. (Logan) Yeah, Dave sent me a message suggesting the same thing. I will try that.
I really like the grizzly by pks or the scorpion.
wonderful review.
+Matthew Jeffres thanks.
Was wondering how your spirit is holding up now? Looking at it for possible purchase and your's is the only video on it that I have really found.
+Justin Gabor Holding up fine but I have not used it a whole lot.
Dang, was hoping you would've since you genuinely seemed to like it. I guess you guys get a lot of knives to review and need to spend time with each one so you're pretty busy with other knives to really go back and use the other review knives that went before them. Was honestly thinking about starting my own channel but I'm pretty sure I don't have the time for it. Well, thanks for responding and also thanks for the wonderful videos.
+Justin Gabor I do like it and I have used it. I only get to go camping about once a month right now and I used it on the last 2 camp outs with the Boy Scouts. I just wouldn't call that long term. I still think it is a good knife.
I'm glad you did this review. The spirit caught my eye on Dave's site, started research and there you are. Impressive that it meets the industry standard too. :-)
I'm glad it helped.
thinking about buying a blank on the website and making a python micarda handle for it.
Sounds like fun
Looks great. How does this compare to the BHK Highlander you have ?
+Victor Nekrasov It is smaller and has a Scandi grind instead of a full flat grind. Both are great knives.
PKS did a nice job on this one. $160 is not bad for a handcrafted knife made in the USA . Most of the sheaths that come "with" a knife are crap and people replace them anyway. They learned 1095 from the master of 1095 so there wont be any issues with that. Great review, looking forward to your updates on its performance.
I'm looking forward to playing with it some more
Sweet looking knife, but how do you compare it to the Tops B.O.B.?
+Jules MacFarlane I don't. They are 2 different knives. Personally, I like this style knife better than the BOB. Both are good knives, I just prefer this one.
nice video. fair and balanced.
+Tony Dowd Thanks
Hey Bryan? Do you really like it? I think Dave has a winner there. Nice demo on the sharpness of the blade, those were some thin curls.
It is scary sharp
Hey Brian! I just love the look of utter joy you get when you "test calibration and balance" on a knife......
B_alance
O_rientation
A_nd
R_otation
D_evice
I love it!!!!!! (patent pending of course)
It’s fun!
Brian! I can’t find them anywhere! Really disappointed as I really wanted to get one
may be out of stock or discontinued. Give them a call www.selfrelianceoutfitters.com/pages/customer-service
Thats a cool knife
+Elias Torres Yep
Hi Brian, love your channel. I especially appreciate your knife reviews. Do you think you'll be reviewing the PKS Scorpion HD anytime soon? I'm thinking about getting one but I cannot find any reviews on RUclips. I would love to see you review that knife! - David
+David Fiorini I have no idea. That probably depends on how well this video does.
Awesome knife and great review.I can't believe they're selling it that cheap actually.
+Danny Baker What a refreshing viewpoint ;-)
Very nice....
+Steve Berghorn Extremely nice
+Survival On Purpose That it is 😊
i like that knife alot too. and for once the price doesn't chafe me too bad . would like to see it come with some kind of sheath though . 300
+Pappy There are several sheath options available.
Brian, I'm a big fan of you channel and I'm grateful for the information you provide I'm currently building a Get Home Bag and a Bug Out Bag, but I had to put it on hold because it's costing me too much money! Ha ha Anyway, my question for you is a trivial one: what's the song that plays over your titles?
+O Rod Just me and my guitar doing a tune with the amazingly original name of "The Survival On Purpose Theme"
Is this blade, without the scales, the knife blank 1?
I don't know.
I've been eyeing this or the Phantom for some time now. Can't bring myself to spend that on a knife yet. However if I wouldn't have bought all the Schrades you recommended I probably could have bought a couple of them. LOL!
;-)
+Survival On Purpose. I'll probably be able to talk my wife into it within a couple months since we just paid 3000.00 for season football tickets
Ben Schildgen You should look at the knife kits from PKS. The blades start at 30$
May have to try that. Although I am not all that sold on 1095 steel any more. I always have 3 ways of making fire with me and don't feel like I need to strike flint or quartz. I had an Esee 4 and 5 and was seriously disappointed in them. The handles seemed to vibrate like crazy when I was using a baton and the edge retention was not as good as my Schrade Schf56l or the Schf36. It may be fun to build my own though.
Of course by the time you have the parts and supplies to complete the knife and a sheath, you will have 100.00 invested anyway
Great review Mr. Bryan. Looking forward to follow-ups. Everything I have purchased from Self Reliance Outfitters (Pathfinder Store) has been top notch, quality gear. Even their budget Ferro Rods are great. As for the mercury in cold bluing, neither of the two major brands I have, list mercury in the contents. Of course I have no idea what the PKS uses but I doubt mercury is involved. The active ingredients in cold blue are normally mild acids to darken the metal. Hope this helps.
Thanks for the info.
phantom or spirit, what do you prefer?
I have no experience with the Phantom
Did I hear you correctly? 8 oz? I have a LTWK Genesis that has a 1/8 inch thick scandi blade, and it feels like a barbell in my hand. lol
+Mike Salter 8.8 oz
Hey Bryan great information! By the way , was that a skunk on the tree towards the end of your review? Lol
Skunk? What skunk?
+Survival On Purpose @ 15:45 lol. I guess it enjoys watching you also 😂
Hey, review the Buffalo skinner.
We'll see
Great review Brother! I am going to continue to stick with my Trade Knife with all of the similar fetchers for about 2/3 the price, but It looks like a great knife. Thanks for sharing!
I have the habilis Bush tools Pathfinder trade knife, and I like it. I may like this one a little better though. I'll let you know after a while
Thanks
i seen stinky lol great video was wondering on how well the knife handles thank you for the info
+carla theisen It handles like a dream
now to save my pennies for a good knife
my style of knife but that price without the sheath is a rip off. i bought a similar knife with sheath from primitive forge on ebay . it was much less even encluding postage to the UK. didn't see pepe this vid. did the scouts get him ?
Why, oh why do so many folks call stuff a rip off just because it is more than they would pay. No offense intended, seriously, but the term "rip off" implies dishonesty and I just don't see how that applies to something where the price is known up front and nobody is forced to buy it. And, especially when the manufacturer sends it out for independent testing to folks like me who try to demonstrate the capabilities of the product so you have more info than just the sales and marketing details. Sorry for the rant but it seems like any time I review something that is at all "high end" somebody calls it a rip off and I just don't think that's fair. Again, sorry for the rant.
+Survival On Purpose never used the term rip off. i like dave canterbury and love his channel. saving up for a plsk1. just stating you can get similar knives and standards at a more affordable price. not disrepecting anyone.
+new2survival I meant no disrespect to you either. And you may not have meant it in a desultory manner; but, if you take another look at your original comment, you'll see what I mean in the first sentence. I didn't mean to go off on you either, that topic has just been on my mind lately and your comment tipped the scales. Please forgive me. Stay safe and be prepared.
so does it contain murcury....i have heard that before
+desert reaper I have not heard back from the manufacturer yet.
Is this PKS spirit still holding up??
+Todd Gibson yep but I don't use it al the time because I have so many knives to test.
Well go figure. I thought that knife looked familiar. ESEE was supposed tp be making one just like it for their Camp lore series in partnership with Canterbury. It has mysteriously vanished from their site and now this appears in Canterburys store. Don't get me wrong. I like the knife, and had planned on buying the ESEE when i came available. It just looks like my money is going elsewhere. I wonder what the fallout was this time.
I think Dave is heading toward focusing on his own brand. I guess if I had my own knife shop I would probably minimize the partnerships with other makers as well. Bottom line for me is whether the knife is good or not. And, so far, this one seems good.
Another one I like a lot! If you still have it.... how 'wide/tall' is the blade at the back. Love the fact that's it's 3/16 thick and it's made of 1095! That's one of those 'shaving' knives when you loose your razor..... hehehehehe
About 1-1/2 " or so. And it will shave
Have you tried a moorhaus knife before ? It's made in the U.S.A . Tuff little knife.
+Gil Cox no I have not
Camp Rainey Mountain??
+Utilitarian Survival Woodruff
That really looks like a great knife! I'm not partial to the coating per se, would like the same knife without it, but it's still an awesome blade. Honestly, the only problem is the price. I know you get what you pay for, but unfortunately, that's a bit outta my range. Other than that though, i'd get it in a heartbeat.
Check out their new pricing. They dropped their prices a whole lot. I mean a lot. This knife is around $75 right now.
Awesome! Thanks for letting me know.
Scott Breiten they have a polished version.
LUCKY DUCK!!!!!!
+Chris Giddens I am truly blessed in so many ways.
Nice knife, pricey though. Excellent review.
There are many, many more knives that cost more.
double like , supper like it , like like like
;-)
What's the blade steel?
1095, I think.
BOOOTIFUL KNIFE
+Austin Robertson Isn't it?
+Survival On Purpose I have a December birthday tho Brian
Thanks for the great review.
I like the knife. I was actually ready to by it, but then I found out about the $30 extra for a leather sheet??
Oh well.
+dobe5487 Just consider it part of the price. I understand why they do it that way because people want different sheaths.
Bryan, I beg to differ. Pine is fantastic for feathering, it just depends on what type of pine you're talking about. White pine is awesome for feathering. I've made feather sticks that were larger than my head with white pine! So to just make a blanket statement that pine isn't good for feathering is not true. Also, why would you ever need to cross baton firewood??? That doesn't make sense to me. Either burn the piece of wood into smaller sections or simply break it in the crotch of two trees. The only time I could see cross batoning making sense would be for shelter building and/or trap triggers/ notching purposes, not fire prep.
+Dan Schwemin Jr I just did the whole cross baton thing because it really does not test the blade very much to split a Little bit of wood
Oh I can completely understand that. I was just confused when you said that you were cross batoning for the purposes of fire craft. Regardless, great review! I am really interested in this new line of PKS knives Dave has released.
Two of my phantoms were defective. That's not a problem. My problem was their bad customer service and actual attitude when I returned it and asked for another. They sent it to me with the exact same problem the first one had! I loooved the knife but could not accept their sighing and attitude when I returned the next one for the same issue after being promised it would be double checked. The attitude was basically "what's your problem this time?" as opposed to being more careful with what they let go out the door. When you're a small shop that shouldn't be hard, especially as much as I paid for my Phantom 2.
+Seventh Seal Bummer
Survival On Purpose This looks like a baby Phantom. They are awesome blades though.
Slicey Choppey Stabby Pokey!
+Andrew Kincade Exactly
That knife is very nice and if it had one of the major brand names on it people would be saying positive things. Yes the price is a bit high but compared to other hand made blades its right in line, yes maybe a cheap sheath would have been ok BUT then everyone would freak out about the sheath being subpar. Its much to hard in this glut of a market to compete with big brands and those who use overseas labor. If I had the money I would buy the knife just to support my fellow brethren here in the U.S but boy its hard when you can buy a Schrade 42 or Condor Bushlore that does all that you need it to for 45$. Great review brother and I'm sure if people could hold that knife and feel what you are feeling their comments might be different.
I could hold the knife and like it and I still wouldn't buy it for 160 bucks I just feel like the Dave Canterbury brand is why it costs so much. now I'm sure that people who wanna pay to go to his school will fork out the money for the knife but I'd rather stick with what I have
I get it. And this knife is not right for everyone. That's why I like Schrade so much because they do a good job on budget knives. But for someone willing to pay for a USA made, handcrafted knife this could be a good choice.
I saw a video Dave did introducing the Pathfinder Knife Shop and he basically said there were a lot of great knives out there and he just wanted to make his another choice for folks.
Yea I hear ya I like Dave and maybe if I didn't buy a schrade I'd be more willing to pay 160 dollars but who knows maybe the price will come down a bit I did check his site out tho and he has one on it for about 109 which is more my price range
ahhh mercury just adds flavor to all your food prepping needs.
+desert reaper I actually contacted the company, Van's Instant Gun Blue, to get the real facts.
Good review of what looks to be a nice knife. Bryan I know you like the Light my Fire ferro rods, as do I; I found a better way to strike those ferro rods better and more consistent and controlled with just one or two strikes. May I suggest you watch the video I learned this way from; it is called "How To Create Really Big Sparks With A Swedish Firesteel" Just looking to share something I learned with someone who I have learned other things from, Thanks for sharing your knowledge and opinions Bryan!
I'll check it out thanks
That would be an Awesome Knife to eat a Great Big Ribeye Steak with!
Thanks Much!
Any knife would be
coll god viedeo
Thanks
He look likes pretty cool for some sushies !
Or feathersticks
it's a nice Knife for the price they should have made some kind of sheath. But very nice looking
+84neilbone I think the price is very competitive with other USA made knives of the same workmanship and quality. And I also think they just eliminated a bunch of hassle by offering the sheaths as an option because lots of folks do custom sheaths these days and if you don't want theirs you don't have to pay for it.
+Survival On Purpose dealed with thier store before , took me 8 months to get a canteen lid hahaha slowww
Well Bryan as a knife is concerned...it rocks!! Damn, I love it!!!! But with 160 bucks plus 30 bucks for the sheath??...well...no matter how much I love it, and I really do like it a lot, I cannot afford it. Sigh. Sooooo, I'll stick with my Schrade knives complete with serviceable sheaths in the 40 to 50 dollar range and will still be able to get the job done. I guess my point here is, I'm in what used to be called the middle class. You know...those who built this nation? And that class has been almost destroyed over the past 8 years. I love ol Dave...always have for so many years, but perhaps he should once again remember that I'm not alone in my economic situation. Ah well....that is indeed a great knife. Thanks for the review my friend.
I hear you. I just don't think there is any way a small USA outfit can get pricing even close to a major company with offshore manufacturing. Gerber does a good job of keeping the price down on some of their USA knives but they have a better shot at economy of scale.
mate...I am hearing you....the good ol USA is now a failed state...sold out to the multi nationals who made their fortunes in the usa on the back of your hard work, natural resources and can do attitude....and then moved off shore to increase their profit margin.....total shame...hoping you guys take your country back!
That seems really over priced
They actually dropped the prices way down this year
I have a forest tool. They are doing a fantastic heat treat and the handle has great ergonomics for such a simple design. I cleared a trail including hacking a 10" tree in half with it. The black is untouched and shaving sharp.
Don't blame yourself it should have sparked
+84neilbone I have several other 1095 steel knives and I can't seem to do well with all of them. I'm fine with my dedicated fire steel. And the bottom line is that the hardness needed for a good fire steel/striker is really too hard for a working knife blade so a knife will always be a poor substitute in my opinion. That's why I always carry a lighter ;-)
LOL I was just trying to lift your spirits up
Love the knife the only thing is that it looks a lot like a kitchen knife. But all in all grate knife.
It actually looks a lot like a traditional style trade knife
+Survival On Purpose ya I could see that in it but it just in sternly reminded me of when I was a kid and I saw one of my dad's kitchen knifes
It sounded very slicey on the video.
+Oxxnarr D'flame It is very slicey.
Liked and enjoyed your presentation. Not having one in my hands... I'll take a stab at what I observe are some validations as well as some redress issues with this knife. Confirming the overall lineage is relatively obvious: this is a trade knife/Ray Mears knife/MORA combo. All these as stand alone types have their optimal purpose with traditional and well founded pros. On other hand...combining or connecting these design traits into an all-terrain sort is sort of limiting/congesting the traditional pros within their niche while also introducing to even exaggerating some contradiction for intended uses. In a way let me say as an example --- attempting to use a single all conditions camouflage with the expectations of equal hidden characteristics for urban, woods, dessert, and snow environments. Tho the knife looks nice, Ill have to admit it lacks identity, exhibits on your video some shortcomings mentioned above, is overpriced for what it is, and I'll go a step further to call it somewhat representative of a salesmanship blade. Concerning the 'blued' blade... if it is "cold-blue" process often the active agent is Selenium Dioxide... this stuff is for looks or touch-ups at best. This practice (if that's what it is) is like spending a dime on company time, you paying a dollar, and it will go to crap in the rain.
+Alaska Raft Connection - Alaska-BushRafter And I just thought it was a nice knife ;-)
+Survival On Purpose Not too certain why 'pathfinder-branding' does this sort of stuff other than hit or miss sales opportunities. If it is a little item to keep the doors open and folks are into it --- I get it & no big deal. Flip-side is that this redressing combo of design is reminiscent to another pathfinder (in my opinion) poor selection to combo large outdoor knife with a MORA companion style knife. Often times the more one seeks to combine that one tool option the further it gets from optimal for anything. It works its way right outta simplicity, reliability, and predictable function. This is not anything personal to pathfinders or the review... but if you thought this is "just a nice knife" it would be best plus way more informative in all fair play to further review and compare it head to head with its combo of pedigree. I'll wager you will come to a similar conclusion on several of my points.
looks like a copy of the CRKT Saker. Isn't Dave Canterbury that guy that lied about his experience in the military to get on the dual survivor show.
+Skeptic Spartan To me, it looks like a very common traditional design that pretty much everybody has "copied" for the last couple of hundred years. As for Dave, he is that guy who publicly admitted and apologized for his errors. We've all probably done some things we aren't proud of. I know I have.
He's also that guy who has created well over 1000 free videos sharing his knowledge and education progress with anyone who wants to learn. I know I am starting top sound like a groupie but I'm just being honest with you. Dave was one of my inspirations for starting this channel and I have learned a lot from his videos over the years.
Survival On Purpose I supposed your right, its popular design.
As for Dave, yes he makes a lot of videos. But knowing that he has inflated his expertise, I don't know if I can trust him when it comes to potentially life saving advice. I'll stick to the Pros.
Anyway great videos, keep em coming.
perfect are we? old news time to move on. He has more than made up for his mistakes.
+Dan Hasson
perfect not at all, but I'm just saying why learn from someone who's qualifications have been fabricated. I'll stick to experts.
+My Simple Life
Mears
Kochanski
Lundin
I was interested in this knife until you mentioned the price of $159.00 too expensive for what it is , and the bluing on the blade no way should anyone want that . You are better off buying a LT Wright GNS for $180.00 from DLT Trading or elsewhere in O1 steel . The GNS is a way better knife and handle and you can use it for food prep safely in the steel used.
They have dropped their pricing considerably since I made this video. You might want to give them another look. Of course, LT Wright makes excellent knives for sure too.
Ain't nuthin worth say'n NUFSED She's a keeper Yup Dun Sawr 'em. ATB Terry God Bless
+T.W. Milburn (skillet210) Yup ;-)
Nice knife but i think it's overpriced. For the price of the knife and sheath you can get a semi custom knife made (i have two from Lucas Forge, you can see my videos on those and there are other knife makers) and you will get better steel and be able to pick options on the build and they include an excellent wet formed sheath. This looks like a good knife just not a great value in my opinion.
There are many options and room in the marketplace for many makers.
I think it's a bit too pricy, sorry :-(
+Blazin'Blades Everybody has their own budget.
+Survival On Purpose
When you think you can get 3 Condor Micarta Bushlores for this price you have to really fall in love with it to pay that price....
Skunk: ruclips.net/video/AX9ulh9inN8/видео.html
😃👍
+a Bad Mojo Hmmm.
Nice, basic design. Of course these days the market is glutted with similar knives so there really is no reason to pay $160 US unless you must have a Pathfinder endorsed blade for name alone.
I think it is on par with other knives in the same price range so it really just depends on what you like.
Survival On Purpose fair enough!