My compliments on your content and editing - folks don't realize how much time it takes to do a compilation video, and this is one of your best. I enjoy your energy and honesty and happily admit...I've spent lots of $$$ on your recommendations, with no regrets. Thanks for your passion and keep up the good work.
Thank you so much that really means a lot. Compilation videos are some of the most time consuming for sure. So glad the recommendations have been good. Really appreciate and hope you have a Merry Christmas.
Why compilations of your own videos so much extra effort? Is it having to look back through the years vids and combine them as opposed to simply making a new vid? Cheers
An observation on the ZT's sheath. It is easy-peasy to tighten that puppy up. Turn it over, take a metal rod of some sort with a rounded end (1/4 diameter or so), heat that up, and then WITH the knife in the sheath, DIMPLE the back just above (i.e. towards the OPEN end of the sheath) the guard.
That said 5/32" spine Cold Steel Republic in S35VN seems great other than the finger choil in the design . I'm glad for the most part, there's more choices in knife models. I'm looking forward to the day I don't have to worry that a model I want only comes in D2 or S30V
That's the mindset, of people who don't really use fixed blades. AKA Collectors. I belong to both catefgories. 3mm thick blade, is the maximum I'd take for a scandi grind and 3.5mm for any other type of grind. Thicker knives, are useless to me. Keep in mind, that a thickerblade, makes the blade stronger but not tougher,which is what you actually want. The thinner the blade, the more "give" it has and thus the more springy it is. In many cases, a thin blade, like on proper made machetes for example, is the reason that the blade won't shuter when being used for chopping or any of the hard work, these tools are meant for. I could say more, but usually people that don't have the experience,to understand, so they insist on what they think it's true, and not accept facts. (and I talk about most people I see on internet, nothing personal, just took the opportunity to say my humble opinion.) Happy Christmas holidays and a happy new year to all of you!
Hello Gideontactical and Greek Veteran. I like Gideontactical for vidéos on trekking in Rocky Mountains and his open mindset for European knives, not only American knives. I like your comments on RUclips Greek veteran, what is your knives recommendation with brand and model for bushcraft, hiking, edc. I own trc mille cuori for one tool option and combat. I own too one skookum bushtool in 3v and lars falt casstrom in Sleipner, kizlyar ural and shark in PGK. I agree with you for the thickness of knives for a better useful. I know your chemistry and metallurgist steels for your work and you leave in the Greek mountain and use everyday your knives. I like history and Greek history , I visited for 2 weeks IOS Cyclades island, I’m french, i leave near Mont Saint Michel at the seaside. Happy new year for Gideontactical and Greek veteran and your family.
Victorinox Rucksack, is the best option for hiking/bushcraft. For edc I'd choose any Victorinox that fits your personal needs!! Fixed blade edc: Manly Patriot, is my most used edc knife! TRC Classic Freedom is also great edc knife. For Bushcraft:Andaltool, Brisa Elver a Morakniv, either the Bushcraft Black, or a Robust model! Mont Saint Michel is very beautiful!! Happy Christmas holidays and a happy new Year my Normand friend!!@@keefranhaka74-pb7kq
Been watching for a couple of years now and really enjoy your videos and content. Extremely informative. The only downside is that I can’t resist buying your recommendations.😂
Recently stumbled upon your channel and I really appreciate the no non sense. I feel like people really talk up knives and don’t actually use them to the point that you notice hot spots, too thin handles, bad edge retention, bad ergos. Purchased a lot of knives over the years and just this last year I’ve gotten more in to fixed blades. Your channel has been a must watch when making purchases. Really been eyeing the confidante, think it will be the next one as I don’t have anything quite like it.
I'm surprised there isn't a Tkell knife in this video. Veteran owned and operated, he makes outstanding knives with amazing horizontal sheaths. He does a Nickel Boron finish that protects the blade and looks amazing! If you haven't already check them out!
Surprised the Guardian 3.2 or 4.2 didn't make your list. I feel like it's still the fixed blade to beat, and fixed what I considered the last remaining issue with the knife (the unguarded forward choil). They even had a run in MagnaCut, which is currently my main EDC. The Ursus is on my list too though - White River is a great company.
Hey GT, Thanks for all of your great reviews! I've had that White River Ursus 45 (in 3V) for a couple of years. I couldn't agree more. That is a great knife!! The knife feels great in the hand and the sheath is fantastic.
Great vid Gideon. My favorite steel is 1095. It's tough enough to do anything with. My favorite knives are the ESEE Jungles and the ESEE 6. They take a lickin and keep on cuttin. I also have two Gerber Strong Arm knives that are my EDC. The Strong Arm holds a great edge and I put mine through hell and they hold up. The sheath comes with several mounting options also.
You’re influence has been greatly appreciated over the years and has definitely affected my evolution in outdoor game. For a outdoor belt knife I tend to prefer a 5” blade to 6” in colder weather. While I love my Carbon Steel and Leather sheath knives there limited to the a few summer months. I tend to like balanced, uncoated sharp spine blade with a balance of cutting performance to splitting power. A 3/16”, 10-12oz “ish” sabre ground blade with the thinnest edge the steel will reasonably handle. I tend to like value to performance over price and kinda steer away from overly designed knives. Ever evolving...
I have three Joker knives, the Nomad 6.5 (large), the Pantera (medium), and the Erizo (Hedgehog) (small). All three excellent. And six Joker folding knives / pocket knives are also excellent, although the Cudeman Pandora is my favorite.
You asked if we carried combat knives for outdoor adventures. It took a while to mentally go through my fixed blades. Well, I do the Gerber Strongarm and Cold Steel SRK-C
I'm definitely not a steel snob most of my knives are 1066 (BPS) or 1095 (Glock, CS and BK). I love putting the fine edge back on when needed. I don't believe in voodoo not in oils or grease not in blade steels. I think it's about diminishing returns. I like the unusual, BPS Varan and the Mikov Uton. Yes I live in Europe. Thanks for all your had work this year. I have enjoyed all your videos. Christmas 🎄🎁.
@@dertodesking8379 I got my information from here. "Both knives have clip point blades made of SAE 1095 carbon steel with a hardness of 55 HRC and are electrophoretic coated.[5]" But I don't care as I'm not a stell snob. en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glock_knife
My first hunting knife I’ll use for bushcraft ( and throwing) is my cold steel drop forged hunter. Its terrific on game but bulletproof thick 52100. I stripped and hand polished blade and tape wrapped handle
The Standard K Bar designed older made fighting knife. I used it in Service and still carry it in the woods. It sharpens easily. For camp work, it is what I always go back to, even though I have some great Al Mars, Chris Reeves, and other very quality combat knives.
Its all about the materials and build quality for me. The pricing matters of course but I don't mind paying for small shop usa quality and premium materials.
Question 6 I absolutely love a robust 4-5 inch knife. Drop point is what I am drawn too. A skinner mostly. My grandfather left me his quartermaster knife from ww2. Its looks are perfect. He use to hunt with it. Lots of memories.
Just recently got it, but really impressed with the BK19 so far. Full flat grind is slicier than the harpoon one, and I just like the blade shape better than the tried and true BK16. Perfect camp knife for me, as usage leans probably more towards food prep, but it can handle anything else you throw at it.
Yeah, I’m really liking the 19 as well so far. Basically it takes the performance of the BK 16 but gives you more belly and better sheath for the same price.
Great Review. For those off us that have exotic wood cut offs from projects, what is your opinion on the knife kits from Rockler and Woodcraft for camp knives?
I love the design of the Bronco Mini, I’ve really enjoyed using it. …but I found that mine dulled after a bit of moderate use. It’s also got some scoring on the blade edge. I think I’ve been unlucky and ended up with a knife with a bad heat treatment. I want to give this knife a chance so I will try to get a replacement sorted. I also have the Bronco Mini’s stablemate, the Naturensohn Mk 2, CPM V3, that knife has excellent edge retention and still shaving sharp after hard use. Both knives fit the same sheath.
Don’t know how I came upon this page, but I dig it. I have a lot of knives, nothing expensive. I think my Tops oversized karambit might be my Most expensive. I really like Bowie knives and kukris. Cold steel and condor are my usuals, but I’m looking to broaden my horizons. Great video. Thank you sir
My ballbearing steel custom knives (52100) have mind blowing edge retention and edge stability/toughness! Their edge retention, is between Elmax and M390. Best steel for an outdoors fixed blade knife, bar none. Better than CPM 3V, because not only it holds it's edge l;onger, but it also sharpens much easier, so it's more ideal, for an outdoors knife, for more than one reasons.
Just came across this channel. Love fixed blades. I am not very knowledgeable on the many types of different blades and brands as there are so many. Nice selection of reviews. Also very concise. You just gained a sub. I'm looking forward to watching more of your vids. 👍 Thank you.
I've heard a few bad stories about magnacut but I have 3 blades now in magnacut that live up to the hype. My daily driver is a Creely Mako that gets constant use on a small ranch so I'm always using it to trim rope, leather, pvc, open feed bags, break down cardboard, etc. It came very sharp when I got it last January but I reprofiled the edge a bit. Since I reprofiled it I've only had to strop it up twice where my previous daily driver, an Esee Izula 2, needed quarterly sharpening and monthly stropping. So, I'm sold on the magnacut mythos.
Purchased a TOPs CUT4.0 a couple of years ago, and it has been my EDC from day one. This knife has done everything asked, at a very high level. Easy to carry, robust, and holds the edge very well, on that note, very easy to touch up with ceramic and a strop. Short reach, but handles bushcraft tasks and game processing tasks like a champ. Has a karambit ring, but except for the finger hold, and flipping option, it does not have any karambit limitations. Would definitely not feel "under gunned" in a combat situation with this knife. Was very uncertain about using it as a "hunter", until I did, deer cape, back straps, and loins were processed very neatly with the CUT. I own over 20 fixed blades, and still carry some of the others depending on situations, but on any given day, an EDC check would find me carrying this outstanding TOPs product
My normal carry when I'm in the sticks has been my Kephart (KaBar). I have more expensive and "higher quality" knives but it my choice in hand from camp to field. I don't always have room for something that size... when I do that's the one. I just purchased a second for backup. If I am processing wood heavily.... I may bring a saw/axe. I would be interested in your opinion if you don't already have one.
I love the Spartan Kabar. It's the full tang we deserved for decades. They should have stayed at 7 inches. This trend of knocking an inch or 2 off a classic is getting old. Smaller isn't always better.
In reallity, 4 inch blade, is plenty enough.The internet hype, "bigger the better", is more of a marketing RUclips hype,that also has to do with the American tradition, where everything has to be huge and heavy,to be good.Please people, don't give me the batoning, backyard warior routine. I talk about facts, I talk about the real world.not the fake internet world, with it's marketing hypes, thaey do it, because it "sells" that;s why it's reproduced, to the point of brainwashing, and that's why people, have the batoning as an excuse, for their knives to have to be like spliting axes...Happy Christmas Holidays and a Happy new year to all of you!
I've got Joker Nomad 6.5 and it's really good knife. Big, but not huge. Convex edge and good overall shape. I'm very happy with that blade. It's my second "big knife", but I'm already using it more because of its handier size (first one was Ontario SP5).
*_I think its time for someone like Benchmade to release a limited run of GT Gideons Tactical Claymores!_* _Give us some bright color scales and a one of a kind tiger stripe blade.. Give it to us in CPM 4V to really blow people away, and make it something not only desirable, but something they have never offered or done before!_ *Magnacut is not ALL hype, but it is unequivocally over hyped, overpriced, and not all it is cracked up to be!*
@@gideonstactical _Yes... yes, limited 500 or 1K run of them, and since it would be highly desirable, people would want to be flipping them on eBay... ONLY... THEY CANT! Its an AUTO! Ah Ha!_
Extremely well done compilation. I liked the information so much I saved the video for future reference. Thanks for your hard work, even though you can tell you're enjoying every minute, lol.
I EDC a cheap Petrified Fish Victor for work stuff, either the Spyderco Matriarch 2/Skallywag Tactical MDV+1 for obvious reasons. And I doubt you care but I also almost always have my Sig P365 XM. Took me a while to find the right setup but I’ve finally got it down.
My most carried fixed blade the last year was an equal finish between the Lionsteel T5 and the Mora Garberg, I added kydex and fire steels to both - great blades.
Love your presentations Aaron !! My most carried knife this year has been the White River Knives Firestarter 4 . I love this knife !! I use it for Bush crafting and hunting and it is always a joy to use and always puts a smile on my face when I use it !! Thank you White River !!!
I have to admit, I hadn't watched your vids for a while, but your current videos give me the impression that your experience and knowledge are much advanced from your earlier videos. I have to admit, I wasn't aware of Magnacut until watching this vid. It looks VERY interesting. Over time, my tastes and budget have evolved towards more premium steels, thinner, lighter, and shorter blades. I have plenty of overbhilt, heavy duty knives and large choppers, but I lean more towards multi-tool options instead of a "one tool does everything" choice. Good video.
Would love to try the Cold Steel Republic, kinda holding off hoping for a non-coated version and their typical price drops. I got excited when I originally saw the GMF4. Love the design, I haven’t had a good experience with N690, that and the few knives I have in that steel were half the price. Was surprised that Giant Mouse didn’t use their Elmax on that knife, that would have sold it for me. Loving the Spartan Fighter and Brisa Tooper this year.
Working really hard on that for 2024 as well as several other things that are in the pipeline. Just want to launch them well, make sure the products are good for you guys.
Joker. Joker is a company far too many have slept upon. I have two of their knives and I'm officially on board now. Love them, I don't see any negatives with their product AND their price point. MKC makes 52100 an art. Yes, they are expensive. Yes, there are waiting lists you HAVE to jump on if you want one. But damn... I got one earlier this year, and used it to dress my deer this year and I was like... "Where have you been all my life?" 😂😂😂
Thank you for the great video👍. To answer your question (5:51). I often travel with a Vandal from Rustick Knives in 80CrV2 wth a saber grind. The knife also does all the bushcraft tasks. The tip of the blade is very thin. But because of the steel and the great heat treatment, the knife has survived batoning so far. I wish you a Merry Christmas.
I like a do everything knife and there were a lot of very good fixed blades this year, but I've been carrying my Winkler Highland Hunter for most of the year. It's kept me from buying a lot of fixed blades because I always have to ask would I carry that over the Winkler; The sheath plays a factor too, I like a low profile, preferably scout carry sheath. I bought a couple Work Tuff Gear knives (Blackout, and Puzon WIldernes Bowie 9) and they're great tools, but I don't carry those outside of hunting and camping.
I have several combat knives that I use when just hiking. They all can be used to feather, baton…. Etc. I EDC a First Tactical sling pack woth a MIL SPEC Monkey knife inverted on the sling. I mention this because just wanted to affirm that this is done. 😊
From someone who has been using 420HC for decades and has been using a hunting knife that has been passed down through my family for three generations, Magnacut is pretty much hype; nice to have but not necessary. Whatever floats your boat.
The problem with the KaBar made Spartans is the edges are whack. My Alala was so dull it was basically a butter knife. I was so confident in how dull it is I even ran it across my hand with pressure on video and it didn't even leave a dent in my skin. If it can't cut, can we really call it a knife?
Magnacut is a major step forward within the knife and cutlerly industry as a whole and can not be seen as anything other than a major win for the comminty . . . HOWEVER this Crucible's halo product. No matter how revolutionary a product is, it doesn't matter when only a small subset of the community can even afford it let alone know of its existance. Because of that reason alone I think 14c28n has made a larger positive impact on the cutlery community than Magnacut has, for the first time in AGES have we got a steel that is relatively tough, mildly stainless, and takes an extremely screaming sharp edge that is relatively easy to take care of via stropping all while coming in at a price point literally anyone can afford. Also I'd love to see the GMF4 come in Elmax. Giantmouse NEEDS to make it happen.
Question 2 value or price. Me it’s price of course some quality but price is always first. That’s why I like watching you Aaron you show both and explain why on many things. Thank you for all your work !
I can tell I'm about to order a knife or two based on this video. I have close to a hundred fixed blades at this point so I think I have a sickness... There are some knives I think hit way above their price point. One of my favorite knives is my Ursus 45 in 3V. Another knife I really like for bushcraft is my Becker Kephart. I think some of the best knives for the money are the Terava Jääkäripuukko 110, 140 and Skrama 240 in 80CrV2.
@gideonstactical any of them. I've had several over the years. My favorites are The Woodsman Chanto and the PWB7. They are about to release the Nomad Bushcraft soon. I think you may want to check it out.
I prefer to carry a dedicated game processing knife. The reason being that when it comes time to gut an animal, i don't want to possibly have to spend time sharpening prepping my knife when time is of the essence, i.e, light is fading or other environmental factors.
My most carried and used fixed is a pocket fixed blade the Rough Ryder red and black g10 in 440A I’m trying out the pocket fixed blade I will upgrade sometime when I find the right one I’m thinking the TJ Schwartz overland sport
Bolster is most important to me. When cleaning an animal or working in wet conditions sometimes your hand slides forward. Protection is important to me.
I just stopped by to give a like and comment ( paying tributes to the algorithm gods ). Im going to watch this evening after the honey - list is done. This has become one of my favorite videos in all of RUclips knifedom. Merry Christmas.
Wow, my friend, that means a lot really appreciate that. Thanks for the comment ahead of time. Hope you enjoy the video tonight once your list is done. Be blessed and have a great Christmas.
After buying the Spartan Harsey Nessmuk & trying out the handle profile, I had to purchase the Fighter as well. They both are quality & functional knives & I will come to cherish them in time.
I love joker knives I have a nordico nomad and lynx but the brisa trooper is what I would call a all around scandi absolute beast.. 80crv2 is really similar to 14c without the rust protection tough holds a good to great edge and easy to sharpen and gets razor sharp
My two most carried hiking/camping knives this year were the White River Ursus 45 and/or the Lionsteel T5. But, I am a fly fisherman so I need a lightweight, thin, sharp knife that is stainless. I like my MKC Speedgoat in Magnacut steel. This week I ordered the Mini-Speedgoat in Magnacut steel and I am anxious to carry it on my waders. It only weighs 1 ounce.
Morakniv and Eafengrow knives should fit your bill. I have a Kansbol morakniv and eafengrow knives in 14c28n and DC53. No need to get any knife over 70$. I like watching all these top RUclips reviewers testing $100-300 mark but my most expensive folders are Benchmade knives and I won’t be buying anymore. Unless you plan to dive then, you should invest in an expensive knife for that purpose. Any sharp blade should take care of your camping or hiking trip. Cold steel knives are more than adequate as well. Good day and god bless.
I have the BPS Savage and absolutely love it. One of my favorite camp knives and I my permanent steak knife, lol. 2 things I don’t like: 1st, sheath doesn’t fit right without holstering the blade into it. I had to work it in, to make it eventually fit right. 2nd, I don’t like the end of the tang, outside of the wood. Thinking about grinding it off.
Great video as usual. This year, and last, my Winkler belt knife was my go to. In 2024 I’m going to start using my Joker Nomad that I recently got. Happy New Year.
Hi Gideon I was wondering out of the reiff f4 vs the ursus vs lionsteel t6 which would you say is best all around? Wanting to get a good survival knife
I’m super uneducated on knives, but I guess that is why I’m watching. However, you mentioned that you don’t like a choyle (spelling?) on short blades. In my limited experience, while skinning game, I like to choke up, and control the tip with my index finger extending to the tip of the knife. I may be doing this wrong, but you asked “why,” and that is mine.
No worries and glad you’re enjoying the content and I hope it’s been entertaining, but also educational! I definitely don’t have all the answers, and I’m learning myself all the time. For me personally, I feel like a knife blade 5 inches does not need a choil. I found it just takes away from the blade length and that small knife I found really needs to be choked up on. I feel it’s great for larger blades that have front heavy weight to help you get a better balance point for finer work. That’s just me and my mileage, though. Ultimately you gotta find what works for you and how you use your knives.
Q1 = A stock Harsey Fighter. Another question = I don't need to carry a combat knife. [90 % of the time I carry a camp knife.] Another question: I am willing to pay a bit more and prefer upgraded steels/ergos/etc. Final question: I carried my Izula's the most in 2023. [In my front pocket with an attached Photon light.] Happy Holidays Aaron!
I ordered a Schwarz Confidante because of you. I waited and tried to get Montana Knife Co. magnacut blade and it's damn near impossible with their very limited restocks and selling out in minutes (hah, I typed that before I saw you had an MKC on the list). I have no use for large blades personally. That left Schwarz as the next best option for a fixed magnacut that I'm aware of. My kukri, the Schwarz, and the cruwear folder is all I need.
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I ask your opinion if you had to choose a knife and it was vg10 San Mai or cpm3v which would you pick. Cold Steel magnum tanto.
My compliments on your content and editing - folks don't realize how much time it takes to do a compilation video, and this is one of your best. I enjoy your energy and honesty and happily admit...I've spent lots of $$$ on your recommendations, with no regrets. Thanks for your passion and keep up the good work.
Thank you so much that really means a lot. Compilation videos are some of the most time consuming for sure. So glad the recommendations have been good. Really appreciate and hope you have a Merry Christmas.
Best knife and gear reviewer on RUclips IMO.
@@johnaugustin5447 that really means a lot thank you 🙏 Merry Christmas!
@@gideonstacticalJust being honest sir. Merry Christmas and a happy New Year to you and yours!
Why compilations of your own videos so much extra effort? Is it having to look back through the years vids and combine them as opposed to simply making a new vid?
Cheers
I rarely comment on videos but I have to say that I appreciate you referring to these knives as tools. That’s exactly what they are. Well done.
Thanks so much John. Yes, that is what they are and more people need to see that. Merry Christmas.
An observation on the ZT's sheath. It is easy-peasy to tighten that puppy up. Turn it over, take a metal rod of some sort with a rounded end (1/4 diameter or so), heat that up, and then WITH the knife in the sheath, DIMPLE the back just above (i.e. towards the OPEN end of the sheath) the guard.
On almost all knives, I prefer overbuilt robustness because you just never know what you're going to end up having to use it for!
That said 5/32" spine Cold Steel Republic in S35VN seems great other than the finger choil in the design . I'm glad for the most part, there's more choices in knife models. I'm looking forward to the day I don't have to worry that a model I want only comes in D2 or S30V
It's a knife use it as a knife
That's the mindset, of people who don't really use fixed blades. AKA Collectors. I belong to both catefgories. 3mm thick blade, is the maximum I'd take for a scandi grind and 3.5mm for any other type of grind. Thicker knives, are useless to me. Keep in mind, that a thickerblade, makes the blade stronger but not tougher,which is what you actually want. The thinner the blade, the more "give" it has and thus the more springy it is. In many cases, a thin blade, like on proper made machetes for example, is the reason that the blade won't shuter when being used for chopping or any of the hard work, these tools are meant for. I could say more, but usually people that don't have the experience,to understand, so they insist on what they think it's true, and not accept facts. (and I talk about most people I see on internet, nothing personal, just took the opportunity to say my humble opinion.) Happy Christmas holidays and a happy new year to all of you!
Hello Gideontactical and Greek Veteran. I like Gideontactical for vidéos on trekking in Rocky Mountains and his open mindset for European knives, not only American knives. I like your comments on RUclips Greek veteran, what is your knives recommendation with brand and model for bushcraft, hiking, edc. I own trc mille cuori for one tool option and combat. I own too one skookum bushtool in 3v and lars falt casstrom in Sleipner, kizlyar ural and shark in PGK. I agree with you for the thickness of knives for a better useful. I know your chemistry and metallurgist steels for your work and you leave in the Greek mountain and use everyday your knives. I like history and Greek history , I visited for 2 weeks IOS Cyclades island, I’m french, i leave near Mont Saint Michel at the seaside. Happy new year for Gideontactical and Greek veteran and your family.
Victorinox Rucksack, is the best option for hiking/bushcraft. For edc I'd choose any Victorinox that fits your personal needs!! Fixed blade edc: Manly Patriot, is my most used edc knife! TRC Classic Freedom is also great edc knife. For Bushcraft:Andaltool, Brisa Elver a Morakniv, either the Bushcraft Black, or a Robust model! Mont Saint Michel is very beautiful!! Happy Christmas holidays and a happy new Year my Normand friend!!@@keefranhaka74-pb7kq
Been watching for a couple of years now and really enjoy your videos and content. Extremely informative. The only downside is that I can’t resist buying your recommendations.😂
Hahah!!
Recently stumbled upon your channel and I really appreciate the no non sense. I feel like people really talk up knives and don’t actually use them to the point that you notice hot spots, too thin handles, bad edge retention, bad ergos. Purchased a lot of knives over the years and just this last year I’ve gotten more in to fixed blades. Your channel has been a must watch when making purchases. Really been eyeing the confidante, think it will be the next one as I don’t have anything quite like it.
I'm surprised there isn't a Tkell knife in this video. Veteran owned and operated, he makes outstanding knives with amazing horizontal sheaths. He does a Nickel Boron finish that protects the blade and looks amazing! If you haven't already check them out!
Surprised the Guardian 3.2 or 4.2 didn't make your list. I feel like it's still the fixed blade to beat, and fixed what I considered the last remaining issue with the knife (the unguarded forward choil). They even had a run in MagnaCut, which is currently my main EDC. The Ursus is on my list too though - White River is a great company.
Great #1 choice and I totally agree!!! I have the Ursus in 3V and love it!!! Excelled at a survival school I took it too.
Hey GT,
Thanks for all of your great reviews! I've had that White River Ursus 45 (in 3V) for a couple of years. I couldn't agree more. That is a great knife!! The knife feels great in the hand and the sheath is fantastic.
Great vid Gideon. My favorite steel is 1095. It's tough enough to do anything with. My favorite knives are the ESEE Jungles and the ESEE 6. They take a lickin and keep on cuttin. I also have two Gerber Strong Arm knives that are my EDC. The Strong Arm holds a great edge and I put mine through hell and they hold up. The sheath comes with several mounting options also.
Last question answered my most carried and use fixed blade is gerber strong arm. God bless and thanks again for the information.
You’re influence has been greatly appreciated over the years and has definitely affected my evolution in outdoor game. For a outdoor belt knife I tend to prefer a 5” blade to 6” in colder weather. While I love my Carbon Steel and Leather sheath knives there limited to the a few summer months. I tend to like balanced, uncoated sharp spine blade with a balance of cutting performance to splitting power. A 3/16”, 10-12oz “ish” sabre ground blade with the thinnest edge the steel will reasonably handle. I tend to like value to performance over price and kinda steer away from overly designed knives. Ever evolving...
Processing game maybe under 5%. Food processing 10%. The vast majority of use is camp/trail wood work.
Well said! Thanks, J
What a great video! Info, editing, presentation, everything. Thank you so much for doing this.
Really glad you enjoyed it!
My daily carry for 2023 is a Tanimboca Puukko by Tops paired with a Ontario Rat 2 with D2 steel. What a combo for the high desert of western Colorado!
Love D2! I'm a desert rat myself. Love me some D2!! Check out the Condor Sequoia. It has been good to me in the desert also
I just started collecting fixed blades and your videos have been so helpful. Amazing content
Awesome! Thank you!
I have three Joker knives, the Nomad 6.5 (large), the Pantera (medium), and the Erizo (Hedgehog) (small). All three excellent. And six Joker folding knives / pocket knives are also excellent, although the Cudeman Pandora is my favorite.
You asked if we carried combat knives for outdoor adventures. It took a while to mentally go through my fixed blades. Well, I do the Gerber Strongarm and Cold Steel SRK-C
I'm definitely not a steel snob most of my knives are 1066 (BPS) or 1095 (Glock, CS and BK). I love putting the fine edge back on when needed. I don't believe in voodoo not in oils or grease not in blade steels. I think it's about diminishing returns. I like the unusual, BPS Varan and the Mikov Uton. Yes I live in Europe. Thanks for all your had work this year. I have enjoyed all your videos. Christmas 🎄🎁.
Glock use a spring steel, not 1095
@@dertodesking8379 I got my information from here. "Both knives have clip point blades made of SAE 1095 carbon steel with a hardness of 55 HRC and are electrophoretic coated.[5]" But I don't care as I'm not a stell snob.
en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glock_knife
My first hunting knife I’ll use for bushcraft ( and throwing) is my cold steel drop forged hunter. Its terrific on game but bulletproof thick 52100. I stripped and hand polished blade and tape wrapped handle
The Standard K Bar designed older made fighting knife. I used it in Service and still carry it in the woods. It sharpens easily. For camp work, it is what I always go back to, even though I have some great Al Mars, Chris Reeves, and other very quality combat knives.
Its all about the materials and build quality for me. The pricing matters of course but I don't mind paying for small shop usa quality and premium materials.
Question 6 I absolutely love a robust 4-5 inch knife. Drop point is what I am drawn too. A skinner mostly. My grandfather left me his quartermaster knife from ww2. Its looks are perfect. He use to hunt with it. Lots of memories.
Just recently got it, but really impressed with the BK19 so far. Full flat grind is slicier than the harpoon one, and I just like the blade shape better than the tried and true BK16. Perfect camp knife for me, as usage leans probably more towards food prep, but it can handle anything else you throw at it.
Yeah, I’m really liking the 19 as well so far. Basically it takes the performance of the BK 16 but gives you more belly and better sheath for the same price.
Great Review. For those off us that have exotic wood cut offs from projects, what is your opinion on the knife kits from Rockler and Woodcraft for camp knives?
I haven’t check those out yet.
I love the design of the Bronco Mini, I’ve really enjoyed using it.
…but I found that mine dulled after a bit of moderate use. It’s also got some scoring on the blade edge. I think I’ve been unlucky and ended up with a knife with a bad heat treatment. I want to give this knife a chance so I will try to get a replacement sorted. I also have the Bronco Mini’s stablemate, the Naturensohn Mk 2, CPM V3, that knife has excellent edge retention and still shaving sharp after hard use. Both knives fit the same sheath.
Don’t know how I came upon this page, but I dig it. I have a lot of knives, nothing expensive. I think my Tops oversized karambit might be my
Most expensive. I really like Bowie knives and kukris. Cold steel and condor are my usuals, but I’m looking to broaden my horizons. Great video. Thank you sir
My Kizer Little River Bowie is in 1095 HC steel & handy around the house.
My old SOG Gov Tac is still a fave for weekend camping.
My ballbearing steel custom knives (52100) have mind blowing edge retention and edge stability/toughness! Their edge retention, is between Elmax and M390. Best steel for an outdoors fixed blade knife, bar none. Better than CPM 3V, because not only it holds it's edge l;onger, but it also sharpens much easier, so it's more ideal, for an outdoors knife, for more than one reasons.
Just came across this channel. Love fixed blades.
I am not very knowledgeable on the many types of different blades and brands as there are so many.
Nice selection of reviews. Also very concise. You just gained a sub.
I'm looking forward to watching more of your vids. 👍 Thank you.
Welcome aboard! And that you for being apart
For me Tops knives is the best knives
I've heard a few bad stories about magnacut but I have 3 blades now in magnacut that live up to the hype. My daily driver is a Creely Mako that gets constant use on a small ranch so I'm always using it to trim rope, leather, pvc, open feed bags, break down cardboard, etc. It came very sharp when I got it last January but I reprofiled the edge a bit. Since I reprofiled it I've only had to strop it up twice where my previous daily driver, an Esee Izula 2, needed quarterly sharpening and monthly stropping. So, I'm sold on the magnacut mythos.
Video suggestion: Do a review on the White River Firecraft series, I love your vids, thanks :)
Purchased a TOPs CUT4.0 a couple of years ago, and it has been my EDC from day one. This knife has done everything asked, at a very high level. Easy to carry, robust, and holds the edge very well, on that note, very easy to touch up with ceramic and a strop. Short reach, but handles bushcraft tasks and game processing tasks like a champ. Has a karambit ring, but except for the finger hold, and flipping option, it does not have any karambit limitations. Would definitely not feel "under gunned" in a combat situation with this knife. Was very uncertain about using it as a "hunter", until I did, deer cape, back straps, and loins were processed very neatly with the CUT. I own over 20 fixed blades, and still carry some of the others depending on situations, but on any given day, an EDC check would find me carrying this outstanding TOPs product
Really enjoy all of your reviews, tests, opinions and videos. Thanks!!
My normal carry when I'm in the sticks has been my Kephart (KaBar). I have more expensive and "higher quality" knives but it my choice in hand from camp to field. I don't always have room for something that size... when I do that's the one. I just purchased a second for backup. If I am processing wood heavily.... I may bring a saw/axe. I would be interested in your opinion if you don't already have one.
Whose deck were you stabbing up with knife holes?
Nope 🙂↔️
I love the Spartan Kabar. It's the full tang we deserved for decades. They should have stayed at 7 inches. This trend of knocking an inch or 2 off a classic is getting old. Smaller isn't always better.
In reallity, 4 inch blade, is plenty enough.The internet hype, "bigger the better", is more of a marketing RUclips hype,that also has to do with the American tradition, where everything has to be huge and heavy,to be good.Please people, don't give me the batoning, backyard warior routine. I talk about facts, I talk about the real world.not the fake internet world, with it's marketing hypes, thaey do it, because it "sells" that;s why it's reproduced, to the point of brainwashing, and that's why people, have the batoning as an excuse, for their knives to have to be like spliting axes...Happy Christmas Holidays and a Happy new year to all of you!
What a list! Thank you for putting them all in one video. I love Lion Steel and Joker knives. Merry Christmas guys.
I’ve worn la pants for work for years now. Just had to order more after 8 years. Been really happy with them.
I've got Joker Nomad 6.5 and it's really good knife. Big, but not huge. Convex edge and good overall shape. I'm very happy with that blade. It's my second "big knife", but I'm already using it more because of its handier size (first one was Ontario SP5).
Best knife I bought this year was TRC South Pole in V4E steel. Best knife I have intact.
*_I think its time for someone like Benchmade to release a limited run of GT Gideons Tactical Claymores!_*
_Give us some bright color scales and a one of a kind tiger stripe blade.. Give it to us in CPM 4V to really blow people away, and make it something not only desirable, but something they have never offered or done before!_
*Magnacut is not ALL hype, but it is unequivocally over hyped, overpriced, and not all it is cracked up to be!*
That wouldn’t be a bad idea!!
@@gideonstactical _Yes... yes, limited 500 or 1K run of them, and since it would be highly desirable, people would want to be flipping them on eBay... ONLY... THEY CANT! Its an AUTO! Ah Ha!_
Extremely well done compilation. I liked the information so much I saved the video for future reference. Thanks for your hard work, even though you can tell you're enjoying every minute, lol.
Much appreciated and glad you enjoyed it!! Merry Christmas
The Harsey does it for me.
Merry Christmas preacher! You definitely got the best knife videos on RUclips hands down keep up the good work!!
Thank you so much! Really appreciated
I EDC a cheap Petrified Fish Victor for work stuff, either the Spyderco Matriarch 2/Skallywag Tactical MDV+1 for obvious reasons. And I doubt you care but I also almost always have my Sig P365 XM. Took me a while to find the right setup but I’ve finally got it down.
My most carried fixed blade the last year was an equal finish between the Lionsteel T5 and the Mora Garberg, I added kydex and fire steels to both - great blades.
While I carry a folding knife everyday, I do love to use my Northarm Trillium fixed blade in the kitchen
Great video, I depend completely on my Magnacrap Survival knife for my once a year trip to my overnight backyard wilderness camping.
Question 4 I use my hunting knife for just about anything around camp. But with that I always pack a sharpening stone.
Love your presentations Aaron !! My most carried knife this year has been the White River Knives Firestarter 4 . I love this knife !! I use it for Bush crafting and hunting and it is always a joy to use and always puts a smile on my face when I use it !! Thank you White River !!!
I take the Joker hands down love there knives!
I have to admit, I hadn't watched your vids for a while, but your current videos give me the impression that your experience and knowledge are much advanced from your earlier videos. I have to admit, I wasn't aware of Magnacut until watching this vid. It looks VERY interesting. Over time, my tastes and budget have evolved towards more premium steels, thinner, lighter, and shorter blades. I have plenty of overbhilt, heavy duty knives and large choppers, but I lean more towards multi-tool options instead of a "one tool does everything" choice. Good video.
Thank you so much my friend.
Would love to try the Cold Steel Republic, kinda holding off hoping for a non-coated version and their typical price drops. I got excited when I originally saw the GMF4. Love the design, I haven’t had a good experience with N690, that and the few knives I have in that steel were half the price. Was surprised that Giant Mouse didn’t use their Elmax on that knife, that would have sold it for me. Loving the Spartan Fighter and Brisa Tooper this year.
2023 definitely D2 is the bare minimum (I still prefer 1095 in a bushcraft knife). Also 2023 Cold Steel SRK in 3V is probably the best bank for buck.
we definitely need some GT merch
Working really hard on that for 2024 as well as several other things that are in the pipeline. Just want to launch them well, make sure the products are good for you guys.
@@gideonstacticalif you're going to do it, might AZ well do it right. It'll be interesting how much GT tee shirts I'll see at Blade!
ok great, i just didnt know if you considered that or not, but im super exited for it!
Joker. Joker is a company far too many have slept upon. I have two of their knives and I'm officially on board now. Love them, I don't see any negatives with their product AND their price point.
MKC makes 52100 an art. Yes, they are expensive. Yes, there are waiting lists you HAVE to jump on if you want one. But damn... I got one earlier this year, and used it to dress my deer this year and I was like... "Where have you been all my life?" 😂😂😂
Yup they offer so many good knives. Pantera and the Bushcrafter were the two that I bought and they have impressed me.
Really impressed with Joker knife I bought !
Thank you for the great video👍.
To answer your question (5:51). I often travel with a Vandal from Rustick Knives in 80CrV2 wth a saber grind. The knife also does all the bushcraft tasks. The tip of the blade is very thin. But because of the steel and the great heat treatment, the knife has survived batoning so far. I wish you a Merry Christmas.
My knife 2023 is Fantoni HB Fixed by William Harsey.
The 3.5 inches blade is made of S35VN steel, perfect for both the city and outdoor.
Thanks for the video. My most used knife was the TRC M-1. Hard to beat for me.
I carry the Joker Lynx (scout carry) just about every day. Love it.
Sweet! Do use their factory Kydex or did you get a custom?
How about a knife of the year comparison. All of your winners from the past competing against each other
I like a do everything knife and there were a lot of very good fixed blades this year, but I've been carrying my Winkler Highland Hunter for most of the year. It's kept me from buying a lot of fixed blades because I always have to ask would I carry that over the Winkler; The sheath plays a factor too, I like a low profile, preferably scout carry sheath. I bought a couple Work Tuff Gear knives (Blackout, and Puzon WIldernes Bowie 9) and they're great tools, but I don't carry those outside of hunting and camping.
I have several combat knives that I use when just hiking. They all can be used to feather, baton…. Etc.
I EDC a First Tactical sling pack woth a MIL SPEC Monkey knife inverted on the sling.
I mention this because just wanted to affirm that this is done. 😊
From someone who has been using 420HC for decades and has been using a hunting knife that has been passed down through my family for three generations, Magnacut is pretty much hype; nice to have but not necessary. Whatever floats your boat.
The problem with the KaBar made Spartans is the edges are whack. My Alala was so dull it was basically a butter knife. I was so confident in how dull it is I even ran it across my hand with pressure on video and it didn't even leave a dent in my skin. If it can't cut, can we really call it a knife?
Magnacut is a major step forward within the knife and cutlerly industry as a whole and can not be seen as anything other than a major win for the comminty . . . HOWEVER this Crucible's halo product. No matter how revolutionary a product is, it doesn't matter when only a small subset of the community can even afford it let alone know of its existance.
Because of that reason alone I think 14c28n has made a larger positive impact on the cutlery community than Magnacut has, for the first time in AGES have we got a steel that is relatively tough, mildly stainless, and takes an extremely screaming sharp edge that is relatively easy to take care of via stropping all while coming in at a price point literally anyone can afford.
Also I'd love to see the GMF4 come in Elmax. Giantmouse NEEDS to make it happen.
Question 2 value or price. Me it’s price of course some quality but price is always first. That’s why I like watching you Aaron you show both and explain why on many things. Thank you for all your work !
Great point! Really appreciate it my friend. Thanks for watching and your comment.
I can tell I'm about to order a knife or two based on this video. I have close to a hundred fixed blades at this point so I think I have a sickness... There are some knives I think hit way above their price point. One of my favorite knives is my Ursus 45 in 3V. Another knife I really like for bushcraft is my Becker Kephart. I think some of the best knives for the money are the Terava Jääkäripuukko 110, 140 and Skrama 240 in 80CrV2.
Outstanding video. I'm surprised that Work Tuff Gear didn't make the list.
Which one?
@gideonstactical any of them. I've had several over the years. My favorites are The Woodsman Chanto and the PWB7. They are about to release the Nomad Bushcraft soon. I think you may want to check it out.
Thank you for everything you do. God bless.
You are so welcome
What knife could defeate more opponents? I need something folded at least 1000 times for what i need
I dismissed ever owning the Mora Ash Wood the minute I saw the cost. I do love my Mora Garberg.
I prefer to carry a dedicated game processing knife. The reason being that when it comes time to gut an animal, i don't want to possibly have to spend time sharpening prepping my knife when time is of the essence, i.e, light is fading or other environmental factors.
My most carried and used fixed is a pocket fixed blade the Rough Ryder red and black g10 in 440A I’m trying out the pocket fixed blade I will upgrade sometime when I find the right one I’m thinking the TJ Schwartz overland sport
Out Did yourself on this list! Choices & Review! Thank You! J
I appreciate that!
Bolster is most important to me. When cleaning an animal or working in wet conditions sometimes your hand slides forward. Protection is important to me.
I just stopped by to give a like and comment ( paying tributes to the algorithm gods ). Im going to watch this evening after the honey - list is done. This has become one of my favorite videos in all of RUclips knifedom. Merry Christmas.
Wow, my friend, that means a lot really appreciate that. Thanks for the comment ahead of time. Hope you enjoy the video tonight once your list is done. Be blessed and have a great Christmas.
After buying the Spartan Harsey Nessmuk & trying out the handle profile, I had to purchase the Fighter as well. They both are quality & functional knives & I will come to cherish them in time.
I like my Victorinox Venture, my favorite fixed blade this year, for my needs.
Hunting knives for dressing and processing. Esee, BK7, and hatchet for everything else.
I love joker knives I have a nordico nomad and lynx but the brisa trooper is what I would call a all around scandi absolute beast.. 80crv2 is really similar to 14c without the rust protection tough holds a good to great edge and easy to sharpen and gets razor sharp
Thanks for the info 👍👍👍👍👍
My two most carried hiking/camping knives this year were the White River Ursus 45 and/or the Lionsteel T5. But, I am a fly fisherman so I need a lightweight, thin, sharp knife that is stainless. I like my MKC Speedgoat in Magnacut steel. This week I ordered the Mini-Speedgoat in Magnacut steel and I am anxious to carry it on my waders. It only weighs 1 ounce.
I like Value. End up loosing too many knives to drop too much $$ on them !
i wish more fixed blades were made in 14c28n, its my favorite steel
It is an excellent steel. I wish more would be as well.
Morakniv and Eafengrow knives should fit your bill. I have a Kansbol morakniv and eafengrow knives in 14c28n and DC53. No need to get any knife over 70$. I like watching all these top RUclips reviewers testing $100-300 mark but my most expensive folders are Benchmade knives and I won’t be buying anymore. Unless you plan to dive then, you should invest in an expensive knife for that purpose. Any sharp blade should take care of your camping or hiking trip. Cold steel knives are more than adequate as well. Good day and god bless.
I have the BPS Savage and absolutely love it. One of my favorite camp knives and I my permanent steak knife, lol. 2 things I don’t like: 1st, sheath doesn’t fit right without holstering the blade into it. I had to work it in, to make it eventually fit right. 2nd, I don’t like the end of the tang, outside of the wood. Thinking about grinding it off.
Great video as usual. This year, and last, my Winkler belt knife was my go to. In 2024 I’m going to start using my Joker Nomad that I recently got. Happy New Year.
Hi Gideon I was wondering out of the reiff f4 vs the ursus vs lionsteel t6 which would you say is best all around? Wanting to get a good survival knife
My vote is for the Joker Bushlord over the Brisa on sheath and value as the decider. Thanks for always great content, editing, and honesty!
Thanks for voting really appreciate it!
My most used and carried knife this year was my W.C. knives blackbird
So what's wrong with sheaths made somewhere else?
Thanks for giving recognition where its due. The Ursus 45 is an epic knife, that not enough people know about.
I’m super uneducated on knives, but I guess that is why I’m watching. However, you mentioned that you don’t like a choyle (spelling?) on short blades. In my limited experience, while skinning game, I like to choke up, and control the tip with my index finger extending to the tip of the knife. I may be doing this wrong, but you asked “why,” and that is mine.
No worries and glad you’re enjoying the content and I hope it’s been entertaining, but also educational! I definitely don’t have all the answers, and I’m learning myself all the time. For me personally, I feel like a knife blade 5 inches does not need a choil. I found it just takes away from the blade length and that small knife I found really needs to be choked up on. I feel it’s great for larger blades that have front heavy weight to help you get a better balance point for finer work. That’s just me and my mileage, though. Ultimately you gotta find what works for you and how you use your knives.
My go to knife is the TKell Bushman. I've got two.
Q1 = A stock Harsey Fighter. Another question = I don't need to carry a combat knife. [90 % of the time I carry a camp knife.] Another question: I am willing to pay a bit more and prefer upgraded steels/ergos/etc. Final question: I carried my Izula's the most in 2023. [In my front pocket with an attached Photon light.] Happy Holidays Aaron!
Nice little combo there!
I ordered a Schwarz Confidante because of you. I waited and tried to get Montana Knife Co. magnacut blade and it's damn near impossible with their very limited restocks and selling out in minutes (hah, I typed that before I saw you had an MKC on the list). I have no use for large blades personally. That left Schwarz as the next best option for a fixed magnacut that I'm aware of. My kukri, the Schwarz, and the cruwear folder is all I need.