Buck 105 Pathfinder. I've had one for almost 25 years and it's been my big game knofe forever. Glad to see you have one as well- your brother had great taste!
I bought a buck 105 knife when I was in the army stationed in Germany in 1972. I carried that knife every day, every where. We wore our shirts untucked, so it was on my belt and with the blade into my back pocket. I still have that knife and it looks like a filet knife from being sharpened so many times.😊
My personal favorite hunting knife is the helle eggen I've had for about a decade now. Used it to dress game from quail to whitetail, and plan on using it for many more. The skandi grind is easy to get a good fine edge on, and the laminated steel holds that edge very well. I can fairly easily break down a deer with it, plus a boning knife for the more precise work. Given I haven't really taken a lot of deer, I feel that's a fair testament to its qualities.
I bought my first hunting knife in 1967. It is a Buck #118 and I still use it from time to time. I don't care for folding knives, because I don't like cleaning out the groove. For cutting up deer, I use Victorinox boning knives.
Bought three Buck knives at the PX in Vietnam.... one of which looks like the sheath knife you have (I think the model is the Pathfinder). My dad carried it for years. Youngest son now has it. BTW.... I resisted owning a gut hook knife... until I used one. I now own several..... some sheath, others folding. I enjoy your videos! Keep doing what you do.
I’ve carried. Swiss Army knife since I was in the military. It’s great, not very expensive, multiple uses. If lost a replacement won’t hurt your budget to much.
After a lifetime of collecting and making knives, I find your advice is spot on. For camp and bush crafting at an affordable price, a Morakniv knife is hard to beat. For game processing, Russell Green River knives are an excellent choice that suited the Mountain Men well and are still made today and they're not expensive. You can also buy the Green River and Morakniv knife blades and then attach your own handle material like wood harvested from the favorite tree in your yard or antler from one of your kills. Like you, most days I carry a Swiss Army Knife.
Ron and Cubby bring smiles to my face, joy to my heart, and many memories of wonderful times in the field. Some work is worth it just for the pleasure of handling a good knife, well matched to the job.
Ron, lots of good content as usual, but for us back country hunters, who are sometimes solo and 8+ miles in the back country, a hunting knife has to double as a survival knife. I’d be interested in your take on a backcountry hunting knife you turn to that gives you confidence when the crap has a real chance of hitting the fan! For me I carry a Falkniven Idun (medium sized fixed blade heavy duty drop point 4” blade with laminated VG10 steel,) as my primary survival knife/backup processor, along with a Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter (small, thin, fixed blade drop point 2.8” blade with S90V steel) as my primary skinner/processor and backup general purpose blade. I’ve processed many antelope, deer, and elk with both, but like you I find I prefer the smaller knife in true processing scenarios, but in sketchy situations I have great confidence in the fixed blade Idun, and it does a good enough job processing game to fill both roles effectively. I’d be interested in your approach to balancing both survival, general camp duties, and game processing in the deep backcountry. Thanks Ron!
I usually carry an Old Timer 150T that my Dad used for years. He gave it to me when I got my first deer at 13 along with a Model 99 in .300 Savage that I carried that day, and it's comforting to have a little piece of him with me in the woods 28 years later, even though he's gone now.
I also have an Old Timer! Dad bought it for me, oh, nearly four decades gone! I still remember cutting my thumb with it! I gutted my one deer with it. I took it sagehen hunting, I took it fishing! Doves.... I still smell the game whenever I use it, either if I get nothing. It's not ten feet from me!
I found an old timer in 3' of water while trout fishing in the mountains. I took it home, cleaned it up, and used it for several years. Eventually, I returned to fish off the exact same rock at the same lake, where I dropped it in the spot I found it. I could not find it back. I guess I borrowed an old timer for a while...gutted lots of fish with it.
I have an old sheet metal hammer my dad used his whole career. Every time I use it I think of him, a lifetime of hard work and what it takes to be a father and husband.
My best knife?A two blade “Old Timer,Trapper”Lots of memories over fifty years with that knife!But I’m good at forgetting it!Used my Bear Razorhead to dress one deer.My wife got me a big Old Timer when we got married and I started notching the handle for each buck I got.After ten or so I stopped doing that. I was running out of handle sooner than I thought!
Thanks for doing a focus video on knives Ron. You touched on many points I agree with, and I was specifically listening for one more, that you never mentioned. There is something about a nice fixed blade knife that gives a great feel in the hand. I've never been able to embrace either a folding knife or a disposable blade knife up to this point. With fishing activity most of the year, I've several fillet knives that all work fantastic back at home when deboning the meat. One knife that I never fancied getting was given to me a number of years ago - and it so happened I decided to carry it that year - had a serrated edge. I never thought I wanted that, but I've been happy to have it in the field now on multiple occasions when just a little bit of bone cutting or joint cutting is needed. I didn't think it would be something I wanted until I had it. It's not my first choice when I'm back at the truck or at home. But when I'm a mile away and have to field dress with what I have with me, I've many times when that serrated edge made quick work of some cuts that would struggle with a smooth blade.
I have carried the same little hunting / fishing knife for 48 years now. My father served in the merchant marine from 1942-1950 and he picked it up on his first trip to Europe during ww2 and used t as his sailor / hunting knife until the late 1980’s when he finally passed full ownership on to me. Before that starting in 1975 when I was 6 and he took me camping /hunting / fishing for the first time, we shared custody and I was allowed to use it as long as it was always cleaned, cared for and put back after every use. It’s a Mora made in Sweden with a 3 3/4” clip blade and overall length of 7 3/4”. It holds an edge better than any other knife I have ever owned. I have used that little knife to field dress almost every game animal and fish I have ever taken, and many taken by companions and relatives, from my first trout and snowshoe rabbit to moose elk and even a few black bear, and to this day both knife and sheath remain in nearly pristine condition as a testament to the makers and the are it has received. I usually carry three knives in the field and as a collector own over 150 knives from common cheap hardware store pocket knives bought with the hard earned cash of childhood for use on the farm, to the U.S. marine corp issued Robeson Shuredge [ aka K-bar] combat knife my uncle carried through combat across the pacific island campaigns of ww2. All the way up to custom knives costing hundreds of dollars. The only constant in my life has been that the little Mora has been with me all my life and has been my faithful companion on every single hunting,camping, fishing trip and adventure. It sure feels a lot smaller and lighter in my hand now than it did 48 years ago, but it still does it’s job the same and just as well as it did then, and as a bonus has taken less sharpening and kept an edge longer than almost every other knife I have ever used.
Mora knife. Fixed lade, Scandia grind. Good all-around knife for hunting, bushcraft, etc. I've had mine for 50 years, easily. Great knife. Good video!!!
I love my Spiderco Tenacious folding, it's in my pocket every day for years now and has cleaned a few deer, sharpens easy and holds a edge a good while, next is my Case folder and my buck fix blade
Received a nice Tree Brand DBL blade fold. Holds edge and sharpens easy. A bit large for pocket carry but came with a nice leather sheath that my lab enjoyed.
I have the prototype Cold Steel Hunter with a false back for chopping. It was a gift from Cold Steel for suggesting the pattern. I’ve carried it for over 30 years. Will function well until the rubber handle dies, maybe another 30 years…. I have their Master Tanto. Very cool, INCREDIBLY sharp with the surgical Steel inner layer protected by a spring steel outer layer, but mostly impractical. Mostly a tactical design but it DOES have a lanyard hole in the pommel and I have kept it on my boat for big salmon and sturgeon butchering. I have a 1950 Western “Hunter”, made in Boulder, Colorado as well as the 1986 version of the same knife. Ridiculously under appreciated knives that are easily sharpened to a razor edge, yet are exceptionally durable. I have a small collection of knives and pocket tools. Each has a character and utility of its own. Love my EDC Swiss Army Knife! So many knives … so few pockets and belt spaces!
The Huntsman was the 1st pocket knife I bought myself (all others were gifts from my Grandfather or father).. It was in 1984, in the USAF, stationed at Iraklion A.S., Crete Greece.
Ron, this was a pleasant surprise. So glad to see Covey helping out on the "knife episode ", cause she is one "sharp" girl. Knifes are always a personal choice. I've used most over the years. Case was a favorite of mine, but anymore I generally pack a Kershaw. Not that it's better, just that it was a gift from 2 hunting partners, that are no longer with us. Kind of feel like John and Bubba are still on the hunt with me. The only "tip" I'd add to your viewers is, if you're going to use a folding knife be sure the blade locks. Nobody wants that blade folding in on a finger while skinning. Naturally, keep it sharp. Cheers Jeff
Wow! Love your channel… and Covey, too! I have so many knives! Seriously, for girls dressing I have a compact three knife set that I picked up at farm & fleet. I think the package said Remington! Anyway, they do not have handles and nest together in a nylon sheath. They’re wonderful… easy to wash, easy to sharpen… there’s a small 2.25” blade a medium 3.5” blade and a nice skinner blade. They were like $19.00 a few years ago but I would pay 10x that if I had to replace them. Tho I’ve never seen this exact set anywhere. Thanks so much for your content, Mr Spomer!
Ron, watching this video brought back memories. My first fixed blade knife was a "Utica Sportsman" my first pocket knife was a "Barlow". May not have been a fancy ""Buck or Case" but they worked just fine for skinning a squirrel or cleaning a fish.
Great video Ron, I carry a Victorinox Huntsman every single day, and you are right, great pocket knife to own! I also carry a Victorinox Swiss Tool X Plus Ratchet multitool on my belt every day. Perfect companion to the Huntsman. Most of the years I hunted I used a Buck 110 folding knife to field dress deer and other game animals. Never needed anything more than that.
When young, you always considered a Big knife as the knife to use.Still have a Camillus USN Mk2, parkerized 7" I thought was the one to carry🤣 With experience you scale down. Depending where I hunt, I sometimes carry a short(Self made) Machete if I have to cut my way through. Rarely. Today, a old Browning interchageable blade, skinning, blunt nose, saw. And a Swiss knife. A couple of fine fishing knives . Agree with Ron. On the field I always carry a penn like Diamont sharpennig tool, tough game make it indispensable, couple of swipes and done
great video. i do love the drop point knives in a 3-4 in length. i don't own or like any stainless steel blades. also, I have had a lot of folding knives close on me during use, so i am really particular on the locking mechanisms on folders (in general, i dont use them any longer)
I can certainly appreciate the sentiment in carrying a family knife or a really fine quality knife and I do on short hunts but when I have to pack way back in, I carry the little disposable one you had there. It is really light weight. The replacement blade comes in a little sleeve. I just put the old blade in the sleeve the new blade came in and keep working. I also carry a very small lightweight box knife with the hook blade in it. I ring the legs and cut from the ring down to my center cut with the hook blade it is super fast and very clean.
Thanks Ron...I love that you address the concept and blade shapes vs endorsing specific blades. Your dog, (Covey (sp?) - is so beautiful - I love that dog).
Ron, are you familiar with Grohmann knives? I love all of mine. Taken them all across the Northwest Territories, Yukon, Nunavut and the rest of Canada. Really interesting models with great ergonomics! Nice video. I agree, knives are ful of fond memories of great adventures. Take care!
Hi, great channel! My preference for all round knives for hunting, fishing, crafting etc is a 3,5-4 inch fixed blade with that same belly that Ron likes, but with a very modest clip point, so it can be used for finer crafting tasks and similar, where a slight point is beneficial. 3-4 mm thick at the back for strength, with a very sleek edge angle for sharpness. Plain handle, no finger guard that will snag, Scandinavian style.
Hey Ron: Looks like we are about set on knives, I have so many I could open a used knife shop. You did all that and no bandages. One knife I like a lot is a Gerber that is a folder with a gut hook.
You have a good brother i bought my father a Kershaw Leek Flipper Folding Knife, 154CM, Copper Handle, K1660CU last x-mas or so. having more is great but sometimes you just need the best one. hard to beat that knife and it will patina over time while having an incredible edge with a great blade.
Thanks Ron for addressing this topic which is every bit important for the outdoorsman as any firearm. I prefer lockblade pocket knives as compated to non-locking pocket knives like Buck vs Old Timers. For outdoors, while keeping my pocket knife in my pocket, I add a larger clip point knife to my belt. The advantage of a clip point knife not fully understood, I believe, is that it is actually three cutting tools in one and ideal for the hunter/outdoorsman. The clip point has a point that makes a leather awl followed by a scalpel followed by a mear cleaver. Finally, folding knives do not lend themselves to whitling or splitting firewood. That's where fixed blade medium to heavy clip points that carry on the belt sheath. Still, I can't argue the advantage of having a filet knife in your hunter's kit. I also keep a sharpening stone in my kit and a small bone saw. I, furthermore, cannot argue with those cowboys who use a ball cutter boot knife for skinning game. That knife, shaped like a straight razor, is also rugged and has no point to avoid poking oneself while castrating calves and alao avoids poking holes in hides and furs. Thus, all men should have a sharp pocket knife, I believe, and add to that, while outdoors, a larger clip point knife folding or fixed, and a filet knife in the kit along with a stone and maybe a straight razor too. Well done, Ron.
I have an old Ka-bar that was my dads that is 60+ years old and has gutted more then a hundred big game animals over the years! It doesn’t hold an edge as good as my Gerber or Kershaw knives but it just keeps cutting and reliable like most of the old things are!
I have my dad's Kabar also. He used it to clean fish ever since I can remember And Im 70 now. When I started hunting I bought myself a Kabar also. Just something about those leather handles.
You mentioned a rounded tip. That's literally what i use. Dad showed me to make my incisions with a skinner, then we use a rounded over putty knife for peeling the skin away to avoid unnecessary holes in the hide. Not to mention safer to avoid cuts to fingers. Lol
That first knife is the same one to remind me and is the reason i became handmade custom knife maker. My dad had one when I was a kid and it started my love for hunting and knives.
Some of the best part of hunting is the ritual aspect of it . From using a favorite gun or knife for field dressing or processing . Now don't look down too much on the cheep disposable blades the good old box cutter works very nicely for a quick skinning although messy I will admit . Don't forget the Sawzall for cutting legs and very quick quartering again messy but a fresh long blade gets it done. Don't for get some good kitchen knives these are great once you get those quarters in the house.
this was great, makes me want to get back out on the shop and finish up a few knives ive been working on. Ive got a request for another video topic, Handgun hunting. I dont see too much about it on all the popular channels. Id mostly be interested in revolver hunting, but other types as well. again, great video thanks
Great discussion from a knowledgeable seasoned hunter. I’m from the same generation and found it interesting he emphasized what works for him. The focus was on utility, not what type of new steel that might not need sharpening through 4 or 5 animals or the correct terminology for parts of a knife.
Been carrying my buck 118 for 35 years, it just feels right I like the curve on the tip for field dressing whitetail. I also have a case twin finn set that's what my dad used when I was a kid , beautiful knives but the tips are less forgiving.
Ron. Worked in a meat packing plant for a few years. One Friday evening - night butcher asked for some help. He taught me to bone out meat. In a single evening. Similar profile to your small knives. Ours were heavier. But we still boned out with a thin knife. Cheers to you!
I've upgraded from cheap knives to a Buck Vanguard, and my daily carry pocket knife is Buck 110 that I received from being in my brother's wedding 25 years ago and just started carrying last year, has my initials engraved and date of his wedding date.
When dressing an animal I use three knives. A 4 in drop point for opening the skin and opening leg joints for removal. A 5 in more slender bladed sort of fish and fowl knife for fine work and a full rounded true skinning knife for working the hide off the carcass. All convex high grade steel. I use a steel for returning the sharpness quickly if I hit bone. Also a very good two sided diamond grit sharpener if needed. The only concave sharpened blade I use is my clip knife that I carry for general purpose use. I am a convert to convex shaped blades. Yes they are harder to sharpen and I recommend watching the many you tube videos on such. Convex blades hold their edge far better than conventionally shaped blades. 'Cruwear' is the best steel I have found.
Great work Ron . Love some of those knives, especialy those caping knives. On that fish fillet knife you mention,here in Aus we use a 6" boning knife. Works well for red deer size.
I want a Ryman Setter so bad, love seeing Covey on your vids. Smart doggo. That old Buck 100-series fixed in the black sheath brings back memories from my youth. It was my first 'real' hunting knife. Actually one of the 'only' real hunting knives back in the late 70s.
If you use a Havalon in the field, SLOW THE BLEEP DOWN!!! And ALWAYS make sure to take two seconds to think about where is that blade going to go after it finally cuts thru this thing you're having to apply some force onto it to go thru, like a tough tendon. LOTS of people have sliced themselves with replaceable blade scalpel knives out in the field. Some have stuck their thighs and sliced into their femoral artery too! Bad bad situation! Make sure you have a self-apply tourniquet in your pack, just in case. Recently switched over to carrying the Argali "Carbon" model as the main processing knife. (With Havalon as backup, since weight so low) I really like it! It's like having a Havalon, but without the flexing and a longer blade with a shape less likely to poke the hide. And less worry about dulling it when the cuts involve a little bit of travelling along bone surfaces, left when ya pop off the forelegs or when sliding along the vertebral phalanges and then the ribs when cutting out the back-straps. Mini-bugout in Hi Viz Orange in my pocket at all times for things like cutting off pokey lil branches when you're trying to back up into a sit into something like a scrub oak or holly with those pokey leaves. That way not dulling the processing knife.
First of all: Beautyful dog, you got there. She really adds up to that video. About knives: For me hygiene is also an important factor. Thats why I don't like folders that much. They are just so elaborate to clean. But that's just the lazy me. My main knife is the Mora Kansbol nowadays. It's not a beauty in any sense, but it's functional and unexpensive. Just a solid tool. With a plastic handle and sheet. Easy to clean and razor sharp. Regards from the Black Forest, Germany.
Hi Ron. I learn how to sharpen knifes in my early teens on a old pocket stone with med grit then later learn to use leather to finsh the edge lot friends didnt want me to sharpen there pocket knife because they end up cutting a finger some knifes takes minutes to sharpen then comes alone a blade with old saw blade steel that takes a while to get the edge were you want it most I could get it shaving hair I have few case old timer , marbles. And one or two folding multiple blade Queen steel knifes and them cheap barlow knifes they were good cheap knife I like caring a folding hunter twin blade one sharp point the other with a spad tip with more rounded tip good for skining and some times carry a folding hand saw they come in handy some times. Kevin missouri
Hi Ron, G'day from Aus, always a pleasure & including your 4 legged friend, being a breeder of Tenterfield Terriers myself, had a German short-haired Pointer many years ago, much admire the Weirmeraners, settled for the little ones, the more the merrier in my years, always enjoy the content, always keep the ☀ at your back, the wind in your face & your powder dry 🍻👍👊😊
I carry an ancient (70s) Gerber folder with 3 interchangeable blades. Clip point, drop point and bone saw. The knife blades are pretty thin so they're there as a backup. The saw sees use all the time. I also carry a Kershaw medium size camp knife for the work. Drop point, substantial blade, but useable. Covie is a beauty! Patient and clearly a lover. You're a lucky guy.
My favorite is still a Marbles Plainsman in 52100. My folder is generally a multitool, but I believe whatever the small knife, it needs a good point. Knives are always so personal to the person & the needs they have...and their memories. No wonder kings & nobles were buried with their blades. Knife steels have come pretty far in the last 30 years, but great blade designs actually change very little.
Hahaha. Well, conceptually I agree a lot with you. A folding knife on your belt. People who never hunted in the rockies can carry a fixed blade. Buck has some great hunters, 110 drop point is my go to. But I have grown fond of the Opinel #12 too, you can find a flashlight sheath for it. They have a great balance and when the snow is flying I like it. And yes the Swiss Army always goes in my pocket just in case. And the fillet knife goes in the pack. I like the non-super steels because when taking apart an elk or mulie I have a sharpening steel in the pack. Makes it easy to swipe and go back to work. Which let's face it. It's work. The hunt is fun but harvesting the hunt shouldn't be rocket science.
Knives are so personal - Ron, I love what you do sooo much... What's Cubby?? Looks like Dalmation and what?? Such a well-trained dog! Happy hunting brother! Doc.BTW I carry a Buck 110 automatic, I have had Bucks since I was in hih school and thyre just second nature tome...
I like a knife with a gut hook. They're getting harder to find now-a-days. We have lot of deer in Alabama. Lots of folks just take them to a commercial processor (they're everywhere). They'll even gut 'em for an extra $10. I still do it the old-fashioned way and process my own. Enjoy the vids!!
I once reflexively ran after a white-tail that had suddenly gotten up, and ran away with my knife. Apparently my shot wasn't as good as I thought. Why didn't I just shoot it? I don't know, but I did catch it.
Kudos to you and your compadre nestled up to you on the bench such a good partner enjoyed your knife collection beautiful job Hunter and butcher over 50 years and thankful for your channel God bless and keep you safe.
Those serrations where you'd put your finger tip for control is called "jimping," just in case anyone comes across the term and doesn't understand. Jumping can be great or, it can be too rough/sharp and uncomfortable. Make sure you try it and it's comfortable before you buy the knife. My dad gave me a Buck 120, still have it 45 yrs later. It's great, don't let people tell you otherwise (no, you're not. going to hang by it fron the side of a cliff) because the balance and steel still get it done. I knew a lot of service people back when that carried a Buck 120 as their duty knife! A Buck 119 is probably the most popular general hunting knife over the years and a whoooole lot f deer have been skinned out and processed using nothing but the venerable, Buck 110 folder, some with finger grooves and now thry make it in an automatic. Buck also makes a dedicated skinning knife which is very comfortable and well designed. I've used mine a lot. I have other "much better" knives for bushcraft, hunting or whatever but, if you use the Buck knives *as intended* they will last and do the job. They even made a "Pro line" of bucks with better steel and a lifetime sharpening service included as well as the guarantee against breakage. I have a couple of them, too. If you have a 119/120 (depending upon size of game/preference), a skinner and a 110 folding knife, you're pretty good for every cutting task you have. Need to split wood and make kindling? Get an axe/hatchet and quit thinking you have to use your knife as every tool you need. Even the best knife made will suffer if you keep batoning wood and chopping saplings and branches. A kindling/hand axe or hatchet is the fourth thing you need to have a successful camp/hunt.
Beautiful dog! A Buck fixed blade was my first knife. My second was a Puma folder. Now I can't even remember all the knives I have bought, sold , given away or traded. I was about to ask what you use for day to day tasks and you pulled out the Huntsman. Best wishes and happy hunting!
I think a fixed blade is important in case of emergency. But I gut most with an average @ColdSteel. A few yrs ago , a kid at processor couldn't use a knife 16 yrs . I came out with my file steel homemade Bowie, 3 chops deer head off . Nice presentation.
My dad taught me to use a small blade knife so when you hold it the blade is about as long as your pointer finger. When gutting a deer you can have both hands in the cavity and especially reaching for heart and lungs up past the diaphragm you can grab a handful and pull with one hand and run your knife hand with your pointer finger on the blade right against your pulling hand like a guide; way less chance of cutting your grabbing hand, and your brain is just guiding your finger not a longer object so its easier to do by touch
I'm 54 years old haunted my whole life everything gray squirrel to moose in the Northeast whitetail deer is my passion. My mother bought me Buck 110 when I turn 12 years old. It's been on every trip.
I like to put tape loosely around the edges of old disposable blades before tossing them, or collecting them in a disposable container labelled "sharps".
Can’t tell you how many knives I’ve gotten over my lifetime, it’s become somewhat of an addiction! I typically go to Blade HQ to feed my addiction, they just have an infinite selection and I usually get in trouble buying too many 😅
I bought a 4" Buck like the one he held first at the rod and gun club in the army back in 1969 and used it for most of my life. The last few years I hunted I just used a Case trapper; the blade could close and cut your fingers, but it's never happened to me. Other than that it works great especially the spey blade. Thanks for the video, it was a great watch.
When I look at my knives (having nearly every one I've ever owned) I notice I mainly see all the adventures I've had in 65 years. Every one could tell a book full of stories. My first knife a Case bone handle trapper, Christmas gift from Dad.
This whole damn video warmed my heart! Fantastic down home delivery style. Great conversation! Great explanation! I'm so happy to see you so good to your dog too! Thanks for the great content!
My dad broke his bayonet in WW2. He wrote home saying that he broke the tip off by a " Practice throw" into a tree after hand to hand fighting in the Hedge row country. He asked to have him send a hunting knife with a 6 to 8 inch blade. His parents couldn't but actually thought he was hunting where he was 😳
I love your dog, Such a good boy! Also a mora companion is an amazing gutting and skinning knife after a 1000 to 3000 stone and strop. I processed my whole deer from gutting to freezer with it.
Buck 105 Pathfinder. I've had one for almost 25 years and it's been my big game knofe forever. Glad to see you have one as well- your brother had great taste!
I bought a buck 105 knife when I was in the army stationed in Germany in 1972. I carried that knife every day, every where. We wore our shirts untucked, so it was on my belt and with the blade into my back pocket. I still have that knife and it looks like a filet knife from being sharpened so many times.😊
As a full-time custom knife maker it’s great to see this type of content from you!
Where can we see your work ? I love looking at knives especially customs
Web site?
My personal favorite hunting knife is the helle eggen I've had for about a decade now. Used it to dress game from quail to whitetail, and plan on using it for many more. The skandi grind is easy to get a good fine edge on, and the laminated steel holds that edge very well. I can fairly easily break down a deer with it, plus a boning knife for the more precise work. Given I haven't really taken a lot of deer, I feel that's a fair testament to its qualities.
I have it too, very good knife, 2 years experience, no issues with.👍
Been using a buck 110 folder for 30 years..still holds a great edge many critters dressed with it..
Its really hard to beat the Buck 110. Its a got a solid reputation, a long history and great value.
My Dad gave me a Buck 110 in the 70s. Just a great knife, sturdy, sharp, versatile
I bought my first hunting knife in 1967. It is a Buck #118 and I still use it from time to time. I don't care for folding knives, because I don't like cleaning out the groove. For cutting up deer, I use Victorinox boning knives.
I agree , on the throw away knife. I just like the sharping of a knife. And heritage of passing them down .
Bought three Buck knives at the PX in Vietnam.... one of which looks like the sheath knife you have (I think the model is the Pathfinder). My dad carried it for years. Youngest son now has it. BTW.... I resisted owning a gut hook knife... until I used one. I now own several..... some sheath, others folding. I enjoy your videos! Keep doing what you do.
I saw the Knives but i could not take my old eyes off Covey...WOW what a very beautiful Dog you got there Ron....Thank you 👍
Old Navy flying Shoe🇺🇸
I’ve carried. Swiss Army knife since I was in the military. It’s great, not very expensive, multiple uses. If lost a replacement won’t hurt your budget to much.
After a lifetime of collecting and making knives, I find your advice is spot on. For camp and bush crafting at an affordable price, a Morakniv knife is hard to beat. For game processing, Russell Green River knives are an excellent choice that suited the Mountain Men well and are still made today and they're not expensive. You can also buy the Green River and Morakniv knife blades and then attach your own handle material like wood harvested from the favorite tree in your yard or antler from one of your kills. Like you, most days I carry a Swiss Army Knife.
Ron and Cubby bring smiles to my face, joy to my heart, and many memories of wonderful times in the field. Some work is worth it just for the pleasure of handling a good knife, well matched to the job.
Ron, lots of good content as usual, but for us back country hunters, who are sometimes solo and 8+ miles in the back country, a hunting knife has to double as a survival knife. I’d be interested in your take on a backcountry hunting knife you turn to that gives you confidence when the crap has a real chance of hitting the fan!
For me I carry a Falkniven Idun (medium sized fixed blade heavy duty drop point 4” blade with laminated VG10 steel,) as my primary survival knife/backup processor, along with a Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter (small, thin, fixed blade drop point 2.8” blade with S90V steel) as my primary skinner/processor and backup general purpose blade.
I’ve processed many antelope, deer, and elk with both, but like you I find I prefer the smaller knife in true processing scenarios, but in sketchy situations I have great confidence in the fixed blade Idun, and it does a good enough job processing game to fill both roles effectively.
I’d be interested in your approach to balancing both survival, general camp duties, and game processing in the deep backcountry.
Thanks Ron!
At 1:39 That Buck looks like it's been sharpened dozens of times over the years and well used.
I usually carry an Old Timer 150T that my Dad used for years. He gave it to me when I got my first deer at 13 along with a Model 99 in .300 Savage that I carried that day, and it's comforting to have a little piece of him with me in the woods 28 years later, even though he's gone now.
The inanimate objects become windows for that personal relationship!!!
Keep it close and give some to others (if it comes up.
I also have an Old Timer! Dad bought it for me, oh, nearly four decades gone! I still remember cutting my thumb with it! I gutted my one deer with it. I took it sagehen hunting, I took it fishing! Doves....
I still smell the game whenever I use it, either if I get nothing. It's not ten feet from me!
Old Timer was what I had growing up to
I found an old timer in 3' of water while trout fishing in the mountains. I took it home, cleaned it up, and used it for several years. Eventually, I returned to fish off the exact same rock at the same lake, where I dropped it in the spot I found it. I could not find it back.
I guess I borrowed an old timer for a while...gutted lots of fish with it.
I have an old sheet metal hammer my dad used his whole career. Every time I use it I think of him, a lifetime of hard work and what it takes to be a father and husband.
My best knife?A two blade “Old Timer,Trapper”Lots of memories over fifty years with that knife!But I’m good at forgetting it!Used my Bear Razorhead to dress one deer.My wife got me a big Old Timer when we got married and I started notching the handle for each buck I got.After ten or so I stopped doing that. I was running out of handle sooner than I thought!
Your right about the fish knife. I’ve used them for sometime to debone meat . Works great.
Thanks for doing a focus video on knives Ron. You touched on many points I agree with, and I was specifically listening for one more, that you never mentioned. There is something about a nice fixed blade knife that gives a great feel in the hand. I've never been able to embrace either a folding knife or a disposable blade knife up to this point. With fishing activity most of the year, I've several fillet knives that all work fantastic back at home when deboning the meat. One knife that I never fancied getting was given to me a number of years ago - and it so happened I decided to carry it that year - had a serrated edge. I never thought I wanted that, but I've been happy to have it in the field now on multiple occasions when just a little bit of bone cutting or joint cutting is needed. I didn't think it would be something I wanted until I had it. It's not my first choice when I'm back at the truck or at home. But when I'm a mile away and have to field dress with what I have with me, I've many times when that serrated edge made quick work of some cuts that would struggle with a smooth blade.
I have carried the same little hunting / fishing knife for 48 years now. My father served in the merchant marine from 1942-1950 and he picked it up on his first trip to Europe during ww2 and used t as his sailor / hunting knife until the late 1980’s when he finally passed full ownership on to me.
Before that starting in 1975 when I was 6 and he took me camping /hunting / fishing for the first time, we shared custody and I was allowed to use it as long as it was always cleaned, cared for and put back after every use. It’s a Mora made in Sweden with a 3 3/4” clip blade and overall length of 7 3/4”. It holds an edge better than any other knife I have ever owned.
I have used that little knife to field dress almost every game animal and fish I have ever taken, and many taken by companions and relatives, from my first trout and snowshoe rabbit to moose elk and even a few black bear, and to this day both knife and sheath remain in nearly pristine condition as a testament to the makers and the are it has received.
I usually carry three knives in the field and as a collector own over 150 knives from common cheap hardware store pocket knives bought with the hard earned cash of childhood for use on the farm, to the U.S. marine corp issued Robeson Shuredge [ aka K-bar] combat knife my uncle carried through combat across the pacific island campaigns of ww2. All the way up to custom knives costing hundreds of dollars. The only constant in my life has been that the little Mora has been with me all my life and has been my faithful companion on every single hunting,camping, fishing trip and adventure.
It sure feels a lot smaller and lighter in my hand now than it did 48 years ago, but it still does it’s job the same and just as well as it did then, and as a bonus has taken less sharpening and kept an edge longer than almost every other knife I have ever used.
I came for the content but stayed because the dog. The true star.
Mora knife. Fixed lade, Scandia grind. Good all-around knife for hunting, bushcraft, etc. I've had mine for 50 years, easily. Great knife. Good video!!!
You can skin with virtually any knife but a scandi grind is better for bushcraft tasks than skinning that said Moras are great for the price.
I love my Spiderco Tenacious folding, it's in my pocket every day for years now and has cleaned a few deer, sharpens easy and holds a edge a good while, next is my Case folder and my buck fix blade
Received a nice Tree Brand DBL blade fold. Holds edge and sharpens easy. A bit large for pocket carry but came with a nice leather sheath that my lab enjoyed.
You're knife preferences are exactly the same as other long time experienced hunters. It's a proven formula! 👍
I have the prototype Cold Steel Hunter with a false back for chopping. It was a gift from Cold Steel for suggesting the pattern. I’ve carried it for over 30 years. Will function well until the rubber handle dies, maybe another 30 years…. I have their Master Tanto. Very cool, INCREDIBLY sharp with the surgical Steel inner layer protected by a spring steel outer layer, but mostly impractical. Mostly a tactical design but it DOES have a lanyard hole in the pommel and I have kept it on my boat for big salmon and sturgeon butchering. I have a 1950 Western “Hunter”, made in Boulder, Colorado as well as the 1986 version of the same knife. Ridiculously under appreciated knives that are easily sharpened to a razor edge, yet are exceptionally durable. I have a small collection of knives and pocket tools. Each has a character and utility of its own. Love my EDC Swiss Army Knife! So many knives … so few pockets and belt spaces!
Just picked up an old marbles. Enjoyed watching Covey, beautiful setter
The Huntsman was the 1st pocket knife I bought myself (all others were gifts from my Grandfather or father).. It was in 1984, in the USAF, stationed at Iraklion A.S., Crete Greece.
Finally new topics sick and tired of any 6.5 … appreciate the history and input in each knife
Ron, this was a pleasant surprise. So glad to see Covey helping out on the "knife episode ", cause she is one "sharp" girl.
Knifes are always a personal choice. I've used most over the years. Case was a favorite of mine, but anymore I generally pack a Kershaw. Not that it's better, just that it was a gift from 2 hunting partners, that are no longer with us. Kind of feel like John and Bubba are still on the hunt with me.
The only "tip" I'd add to your viewers is, if you're going to use a folding knife be sure the blade locks. Nobody wants that blade folding in on a finger while skinning. Naturally, keep it sharp.
Cheers Jeff
Wow! Love your channel… and Covey, too!
I have so many knives! Seriously, for girls dressing I have a compact three knife set that I picked up at farm & fleet. I think the package said Remington! Anyway, they do not have handles and nest together in a nylon sheath. They’re wonderful… easy to wash, easy to sharpen… there’s a small 2.25” blade a medium 3.5” blade and a nice skinner blade. They were like $19.00 a few years ago but I would pay 10x that if I had to replace them. Tho I’ve never seen this exact set anywhere.
Thanks so much for your content, Mr Spomer!
Ron, watching this video brought back memories. My first fixed blade knife was a "Utica Sportsman" my first pocket knife was a "Barlow". May not have been a fancy ""Buck or Case" but they worked just fine for skinning a squirrel or cleaning a fish.
They are making the classic buck knives in better steel now. I got the upgraded 103 skinner it works great. I use it and the Benchmade steep country
Great video Ron,
I carry a Victorinox Huntsman every single day, and you are right, great pocket knife to own!
I also carry a Victorinox Swiss Tool X Plus Ratchet multitool on my belt every day. Perfect companion to the Huntsman.
Most of the years I hunted I used a Buck 110 folding knife to field dress deer and other game animals. Never needed anything more than that.
When young, you always considered a Big knife as the knife to use.Still have a Camillus USN Mk2, parkerized 7" I thought was the one to carry🤣 With experience you scale down. Depending where I hunt, I sometimes carry a short(Self made) Machete if I have to cut my way through. Rarely. Today, a old Browning interchageable blade, skinning, blunt nose, saw. And a Swiss knife. A couple of fine fishing knives . Agree with Ron. On the field I always carry a penn like Diamont sharpennig tool, tough game make it indispensable, couple of swipes and done
great video. i do love the drop point knives in a 3-4 in length. i don't own or like any stainless steel blades. also, I have had a lot of folding knives close on me during use, so i am really particular on the locking mechanisms on folders (in general, i dont use them any longer)
I can certainly appreciate the sentiment in carrying a family knife or a really fine quality knife and I do on short hunts but when I have to pack way back in, I carry the little disposable one you had there. It is really light weight. The replacement blade comes in a little sleeve. I just put the old blade in the sleeve the new blade came in and keep working. I also carry a very small lightweight box knife with the hook blade in it. I ring the legs and cut from the ring down to my center cut with the hook blade it is super fast and very clean.
I’m just happy your brother got you that buck knife Ron. That’s how brothers show how much they care. I bet it has much sentimental value to you.
Thanks Ron...I love that you address the concept and blade shapes vs endorsing specific blades. Your dog, (Covey (sp?) - is so beautiful - I love that dog).
Ron, are you familiar with Grohmann knives? I love all of mine. Taken them all across the Northwest Territories, Yukon, Nunavut and the rest of Canada. Really interesting models with great ergonomics!
Nice video. I agree, knives are ful of fond memories of great adventures. Take care!
Yes the Grohmann are rock stars. I have two. Get the job done every time!
Hi, great channel! My preference for all round knives for hunting, fishing, crafting etc is a 3,5-4 inch fixed blade with that same belly that Ron likes, but with a very modest clip point, so it can be used for finer crafting tasks and similar, where a slight point is beneficial. 3-4 mm thick at the back for strength, with a very sleek edge angle for sharpness. Plain handle, no finger guard that will snag, Scandinavian style.
Hey Ron: Looks like we are about set on knives, I have so many I could open a used knife shop.
You did all that and no bandages.
One knife I like a lot is a Gerber that is a folder with a gut hook.
You have a good brother
i bought my father a Kershaw Leek Flipper Folding Knife, 154CM, Copper Handle, K1660CU last x-mas or so.
having more is great but sometimes you just need the best one.
hard to beat that knife and it will patina over time while having an incredible edge with a great blade.
Thanks Ron for addressing this topic which is every bit important for the outdoorsman as any firearm. I prefer lockblade pocket knives as compated to non-locking pocket knives like Buck vs Old Timers. For outdoors, while keeping my pocket knife in my pocket, I add a larger clip point knife to my belt. The advantage of a clip point knife not fully understood, I believe, is that it is actually three cutting tools in one and ideal for the hunter/outdoorsman. The clip point has a point that makes a leather awl followed by a scalpel followed by a mear cleaver. Finally, folding knives do not lend themselves to whitling or splitting firewood. That's where fixed blade medium to heavy clip points that carry on the belt sheath. Still, I can't argue the advantage of having a filet knife in your hunter's kit. I also keep a sharpening stone in my kit and a small bone saw. I, furthermore, cannot argue with those cowboys who use a ball cutter boot knife for skinning game. That knife, shaped like a straight razor, is also rugged and has no point to avoid poking oneself while castrating calves and alao avoids poking holes in hides and furs. Thus, all men should have a sharp pocket knife, I believe, and add to that, while outdoors, a larger clip point knife folding or fixed, and a filet knife in the kit along with a stone and maybe a straight razor too. Well done, Ron.
I have an old Ka-bar that was my dads that is 60+ years old and has gutted more then a hundred big game animals over the years! It doesn’t hold an edge as good as my Gerber or Kershaw knives but it just keeps cutting and reliable like most of the old things are!
I have my dad's Kabar also. He used it to clean fish ever since I can remember And Im 70 now. When I started hunting I bought myself a Kabar also. Just something about those leather handles.
What a sweet dog. Thanks for the info as I am getting more serious about hunting and field dressing.
Really cool that your putis hanging out with you.
I enjoy my hound interaction also. A+
Eka swing blade from Sweden is one knife very popular in Sweden. Think you should look it up. Thanks for every good program. Guy from Sweden
Gorgeous dog , gods gift to us .
FANtastic video Ron! I agree with many of your “points” and “tips”! I love Covey’s choice….the folding Puma!!!!
You made good on the knife video bud, that’s cool. I hope u include Mora’s
Man. I love your videos. Thanks for sharing all your knowledge
I've been using a Wyoming gutting knife to open up the deer and a folding 110 buck knife to do the rest. (In the field)
I like the use of the fish filet knives! 👍
My Dad gave me the same Buck knife about 45 years ago and it is still in my pack.
Wow. What a nice dog you have. Paws up for Cuvvy.
You mentioned a rounded tip. That's literally what i use. Dad showed me to make my incisions with a skinner, then we use a rounded over putty knife for peeling the skin away to avoid unnecessary holes in the hide. Not to mention safer to avoid cuts to fingers. Lol
That first knife is the same one to remind me and is the reason i became handmade custom knife maker. My dad had one when I was a kid and it started my love for hunting and knives.
Some of the best part of hunting is the ritual aspect of it . From using a favorite gun or knife for field dressing or processing . Now don't look down too much on the cheep disposable blades the good old box cutter works very nicely for a quick skinning although messy I will admit . Don't forget the Sawzall for cutting legs and very quick quartering again messy but a fresh long blade gets it done. Don't for get some good kitchen knives these are great once you get those quarters in the house.
this was great, makes me want to get back out on the shop and finish up a few knives ive been working on. Ive got a request for another video topic, Handgun hunting. I dont see too much about it on all the popular channels. Id mostly be interested in revolver hunting, but other types as well. again, great video thanks
Great discussion from a knowledgeable seasoned hunter. I’m from the same generation and found it interesting he emphasized what works for him. The focus was on utility, not what type of new steel that might not need sharpening through 4 or 5 animals or the correct terminology for parts of a knife.
cubby sitting there hearing you talk about meat and unhappy she's not getting any snacks is fun to watch
Been carrying my buck 118 for 35 years, it just feels right I like the curve on the tip for field dressing whitetail. I also have a case twin finn set that's what my dad used when I was a kid , beautiful knives but the tips are less forgiving.
Ron. Worked in a meat packing plant for a few years. One Friday evening - night butcher asked for some help. He taught me to bone out meat. In a single evening. Similar profile to your small knives. Ours were heavier. But we still boned out with a thin knife. Cheers to you!
I've upgraded from cheap knives to a Buck Vanguard, and my daily carry pocket knife is Buck 110 that I received from being in my brother's wedding 25 years ago and just started carrying last year, has my initials engraved and date of his wedding date.
When dressing an animal I use three knives. A 4 in drop point for opening the skin and opening leg joints for removal. A 5 in more slender bladed sort of fish and fowl knife for fine work and a full rounded true skinning knife for working the hide off the carcass. All convex high grade steel. I use a steel for returning the sharpness quickly if I hit bone. Also a very good two sided diamond grit sharpener if needed. The only concave sharpened blade I use is my clip knife that I carry for general purpose use. I am a convert to convex shaped blades. Yes they are harder to sharpen and I recommend watching the many you tube videos on such. Convex blades hold their edge far better than conventionally shaped blades. 'Cruwear' is the best steel I have found.
That first knife a Buck 102? I was gifted one also.
Once I had a real job, I bought myself a Knives of Alaska knife, which I love.
Thanks Ron
Great work Ron . Love some of those knives, especialy those caping knives. On
that fish fillet knife you mention,here in Aus we use a 6" boning knife. Works well for red deer size.
I want a Ryman Setter so bad, love seeing Covey on your vids. Smart doggo. That old Buck 100-series fixed in the black sheath brings back memories from my youth. It was my first 'real' hunting knife. Actually one of the 'only' real hunting knives back in the late 70s.
Mora Garberg this season. Its a balanced and sharp companion.
EKA 88 is the best folding hunter and bushcraft knife I've had.
I am trying to forge a skinner for a buddy's hunting trip, this was very helpful.
If you use a Havalon in the field, SLOW THE BLEEP DOWN!!! And ALWAYS make sure to take two seconds to think about where is that blade going to go after it finally cuts thru this thing you're having to apply some force onto it to go thru, like a tough tendon.
LOTS of people have sliced themselves with replaceable blade scalpel knives out in the field. Some have stuck their thighs and sliced into their femoral artery too! Bad bad situation! Make sure you have a self-apply tourniquet in your pack, just in case.
Recently switched over to carrying the Argali "Carbon" model as the main processing knife. (With Havalon as backup, since weight so low) I really like it! It's like having a Havalon, but without the flexing and a longer blade with a shape less likely to poke the hide. And less worry about dulling it when the cuts involve a little bit of travelling along bone surfaces, left when ya pop off the forelegs or when sliding along the vertebral phalanges and then the ribs when cutting out the back-straps.
Mini-bugout in Hi Viz Orange in my pocket at all times for things like cutting off pokey lil branches when you're trying to back up into a sit into something like a scrub oak or holly with those pokey leaves. That way not dulling the processing knife.
First of all: Beautyful dog, you got there. She really adds up to that video.
About knives: For me hygiene is also an important factor. Thats why I don't like folders that much. They are just so elaborate to clean. But that's just the lazy me.
My main knife is the Mora Kansbol nowadays. It's not a beauty in any sense, but it's functional and unexpensive. Just a solid tool. With a plastic handle and sheet. Easy to clean and razor sharp.
Regards from the Black Forest, Germany.
That little Rocky Mtn Elk knife is Definitely an in field, perfect, little deboning and cleaning charm.
Hi Ron. I learn how to sharpen knifes in my early teens on a old pocket stone with med grit then later learn to use leather to finsh the edge lot friends didnt want me to sharpen there pocket knife because they end up cutting a finger some knifes takes minutes to sharpen then comes alone a blade with old saw blade steel that takes a while to get the edge were you want it most I could get it shaving hair I have few case old timer , marbles. And one or two folding multiple blade Queen steel knifes and them cheap barlow knifes they were good cheap knife I like caring a folding hunter twin blade one sharp point the other with a spad tip with more rounded tip good for skining and some times carry a folding hand saw they come in handy some times. Kevin missouri
Hi Ron, G'day from Aus, always a pleasure & including your 4 legged friend, being a breeder of Tenterfield Terriers myself, had a German short-haired Pointer many years ago, much admire the Weirmeraners, settled for the little ones, the more the merrier in my years, always enjoy the content, always keep the ☀ at your back, the wind in your face & your powder dry 🍻👍👊😊
Sounds great!
I carry an ancient (70s) Gerber folder with 3 interchangeable blades. Clip point, drop point and bone saw. The knife blades are pretty thin so they're there as a backup. The saw sees use all the time. I also carry a Kershaw medium size camp knife for the work. Drop point, substantial blade, but useable.
Covie is a beauty! Patient and clearly a lover. You're a lucky guy.
My favorite is still a Marbles Plainsman in 52100. My folder is generally a multitool, but I believe whatever the small knife, it needs a good point.
Knives are always so personal to the person & the needs they have...and their memories. No wonder kings & nobles were buried with their blades.
Knife steels have come pretty far in the last 30 years, but great blade designs actually change very little.
Those groves for grip on the spine is called jimping.
Hahaha. Well, conceptually I agree a lot with you. A folding knife on your belt. People who never hunted in the rockies can carry a fixed blade. Buck has some great hunters, 110 drop point is my go to. But I have grown fond of the Opinel #12 too, you can find a flashlight sheath for it. They have a great balance and when the snow is flying I like it. And yes the Swiss Army always goes in my pocket just in case. And the fillet knife goes in the pack. I like the non-super steels because when taking apart an elk or mulie I have a sharpening steel in the pack. Makes it easy to swipe and go back to work. Which let's face it. It's work. The hunt is fun but harvesting the hunt shouldn't be rocket science.
Knives are so personal - Ron, I love what you do sooo much... What's Cubby?? Looks like Dalmation and what?? Such a well-trained dog! Happy hunting brother! Doc.BTW I carry a Buck 110 automatic, I have had Bucks since I was in hih school and thyre just second nature tome...
She’s an English Setter
Excellent video! And I one hundred percent agree about the replaceable blade knives.
I like a knife with a gut hook. They're getting harder to find now-a-days. We have lot of deer in Alabama. Lots of folks just take them to a commercial processor (they're everywhere). They'll even gut 'em for an extra $10. I still do it the old-fashioned way and process my own. Enjoy the vids!!
I once reflexively ran after a white-tail that had suddenly gotten up, and ran away with my knife. Apparently my shot wasn't as good as I thought. Why didn't I just shoot it? I don't know, but I did catch it.
Sooner or later, we all have a Tarzan moment lol.. Great story! Bet it's better with detail!
Kudos to you and your compadre nestled up to you on the bench such a good partner enjoyed your knife collection beautiful job Hunter and butcher over 50 years and thankful for your channel God bless and keep you safe.
Those serrations where you'd put your finger tip for control is called "jimping," just in case anyone comes across the term and doesn't understand. Jumping can be great or, it can be too rough/sharp and uncomfortable. Make sure you try it and it's comfortable before you buy the knife.
My dad gave me a Buck 120, still have it 45 yrs later. It's great, don't let people tell you otherwise (no, you're not. going to hang by it fron the side of a cliff) because the balance and steel still get it done. I knew a lot of service people back when that carried a Buck 120 as their duty knife! A Buck 119 is probably the most popular general hunting knife over the years and a whoooole lot f deer have been skinned out and processed using nothing but the venerable, Buck 110 folder, some with finger grooves and now thry make it in an automatic.
Buck also makes a dedicated skinning knife which is very comfortable and well designed. I've used mine a lot.
I have other "much better" knives for bushcraft, hunting or whatever but, if you use the Buck knives *as intended* they will last and do the job. They even made a "Pro line" of bucks with better steel and a lifetime sharpening service included as well as the guarantee against breakage. I have a couple of them, too.
If you have a 119/120 (depending upon size of game/preference), a skinner and a 110 folding knife, you're pretty good for every cutting task you have. Need to split wood and make kindling? Get an axe/hatchet and quit thinking you have to use your knife as every tool you need. Even the best knife made will suffer if you keep batoning wood and chopping saplings and branches. A kindling/hand axe or hatchet is the fourth thing you need to have a successful camp/hunt.
Beautiful dog! A Buck fixed blade was my first knife. My second was a Puma folder. Now I can't even remember all the knives I have bought, sold , given away or traded. I was about to ask what you use for day to day tasks and you pulled out the Huntsman. Best wishes and happy hunting!
I think a fixed blade is important in case of emergency. But I gut most with an average @ColdSteel. A few yrs ago , a kid at processor couldn't use a knife 16 yrs . I came out with my file steel homemade Bowie, 3 chops deer head off . Nice presentation.
My dad taught me to use a small blade knife so when you hold it the blade is about as long as your pointer finger. When gutting a deer you can have both hands in the cavity and especially reaching for heart and lungs up past the diaphragm you can grab a handful and pull with one hand and run your knife hand with your pointer finger on the blade right against your pulling hand like a guide; way less chance of cutting your grabbing hand, and your brain is just guiding your finger not a longer object so its easier to do by touch
I'm 54 years old haunted my whole life everything gray squirrel to moose in the Northeast whitetail deer is my passion. My mother bought me Buck 110 when I turn 12 years old. It's been on every trip.
I like to put tape loosely around the edges of old disposable blades before tossing them, or collecting them in a disposable container labelled "sharps".
Can’t tell you how many knives I’ve gotten over my lifetime, it’s become somewhat of an addiction! I typically go to Blade HQ to feed my addiction, they just have an infinite selection and I usually get in trouble buying too many 😅
I bought a 4" Buck like the one he held first at the rod and gun club in the army back in 1969 and used it for most of my life. The last few years I hunted I just used a Case trapper; the blade could close and cut your fingers, but it's never happened to me. Other than that it works great especially the spey blade. Thanks for the video, it was a great watch.
When I look at my knives (having nearly every one I've ever owned) I notice I mainly see all the adventures I've had in 65 years. Every one could tell a book full of stories. My first knife a Case bone handle trapper, Christmas gift from Dad.
Awesome video! Thank you for doing this Ron! Hope you do more knife videos in the future!
I carry a Buck 103 skinner and a Case Twinn Finn for my big game hunting knives.
This whole damn video warmed my heart! Fantastic down home delivery style.
Great conversation! Great explanation!
I'm so happy to see you so good to your dog too!
Thanks for the great content!
You are welcome, sir. Thanks.
My dad broke his bayonet in WW2. He wrote home saying that he broke the tip off by a " Practice throw" into a tree after hand to hand fighting in the Hedge row country. He asked to have him send a hunting knife with a 6 to 8 inch blade. His parents couldn't but actually thought he was hunting where he was 😳
Carry a scary sharp Victorinox Champion , a Gransfors Bruks Hunters Axe with the polished flay poll and a Silky folding Pocket Saw ......
Very informative Ron, thank you
I love your dog, Such a good boy! Also a mora companion is an amazing gutting and skinning knife after a 1000 to 3000 stone and strop. I processed my whole deer from gutting to freezer with it.