 |
|
Pocket Knives
The classic, time honored design of a folding knife offering several different blades of varying size and shape that can be carried loose in the pocket has always been my favorite style of pocket knife. As a boy it was just such a knife that captured my imagination, and on a summer day with the sweet smell of prairie in the air, seemed to hold forth the promise of adventure and independence. With my companion in my pocket I felt ready for anything and at the tender age of ten I had found a hobby that continues with me to this day.
If you can identify with those sentiments, or if those thoughts stir something in you from long ago, then you know what I am talking about and I make these recommendations for you. |
 |
Buck Stockman Pocket Knife, Model 371BRWB
A classic 3 blade Stockman. Perhaps the most popular pocket knife pattern in history, this is a full sized pocket knife with a clip, spey and sheepsfoot blade just like the several I have owned through the years. Traditional, timeless, handsome, capable. |
Victorinox Super Tinker Swiss Army Knife Red - 53341
No other knife makes you feel quite the way you do when you drop a Swiss Army Knife in your pocket. With this companion along for the ride you are ready for anything and limited only by your imagination. I have personally owned a number of Swiss Army Knives through the years and I recommend this model as it offers an excellent combination of the most useful implements while keeping bulkiness to a minimum. Additionally, it can be had for a very reasonable price. |
 |
 |
Kershaw Indian Ford Pocket Knife - 2155
Perhaps its just me getting older, but I now find the need for a dress knife. A gentlemans folder fills this niche nicely and when drawn for a chore will maintain your dignity at the gala affair. Excellent as a "Sunday-go-to-meeting" knife. |
Tactical Knives
Not just for military or law enforcement, the tactical knife is profoundly useful for light to heavy cutting chores that may surpass the pocket knife’s abilities as well as a degree of protection for those times your adventures take you to questionable territory. I probably have more tactical knives in my personal collection than any other type and all have withstood rugged use from time to time. I have never had to defend myself with one, as I believe prevention is the best defense - meaning I don’t knowingly put myself in danger. However, as you know, sometimes trouble comes looking for you. In such a case, I feel confident in the capabilities of my pocket tactical.
I have carried Camillus, Cold Steel, Benchmade, Masters of Defense, Kershaw and CRKT. I have also had personal experience with Emerson knives. All these brands are excellent. My personal preference in tacticals runs to larger folders with heavier weights. While it seems the public movement gravitates toward increasingly lighter knives with shrinking blade sizes, I march to a different beat. In my opinion, there is simply no substitute for having a substantial knife with a sufficient blade. Really, if a small, lightweight knife is what you are looking for, you would be better served with a pocket knife. |
Emerson CQC-15-BTS Tactical Knife
I can confidently make a hands down recommendation to you on Emerson Knives for your tactical choice, and the CQC-15 BTS is my personal favorite of the group. Constructed from the best materials for a tactical, this knife is built like a tank and operates like a fine watch. The blade geometry maximizes both slashing as well as piercing. The serrations provide power for ripping and the recurve shape of the blade forces a more efficient cut. The titanium liner lock is as strong as it gets and the G-10 handles are shaped for a vise like grip. This is a no-nonsense, meant for business tactical. Very nice. |
 |
 |
CRKT M21 Special Forces Tactical Knife, Black, Model M21-14SF
Columbia River Knife and Tool Company provides excellent value in their tacticals and the M21 is my pick out of their stable. A full hilt on a folding knife is rare, so I like that. The blade shape shares a lot in common with the Emerson CQC-15 such as good geometry for both piercing and slashing, ripping serrations and a recurve for power cuts. |
Benchmade Rukus Tactical Knife, BK, Model 610SBK
This knife has the size and the heft to get the job done. I really appreciate the shape of the handle which allows good grip and the finger guard for safety. The AXIS lock has proven itself as a reliable system and the blade shape makes for excellent thrusting and slashing, serrations handle the heavy ripping. A truly great, classic knife and one I'm glad I own. |
 |
Multi-Tools
I have owned a number of multi-tools and often given them as gifts. The recipient always breaks into a big smile upon opening the package so I know I am choosing well. Personally I am torn between the smaller versions of multi-tool, such as the Leatherman Juice which can actually be carried right in the pocket and larger versions which provide better capability but must be carried in a sheath or bag. When in such predicaments I find it best (to my wife’s chagrin) to simply get one of each.
The multi-tool will far outdistance the pocket knife in practical usefulness and when speaking of the smaller frame version which can be pocket carried, they really can’t be outdone for their size. Nevertheless, down-sizing will sacrifice power and capability, so if you think the day’s capers may include some heavier chores it would be prudent to slip that larger size secondary tool you bought into your day sack. |
 |
Leatherman Juice CS4 Tool, Glacier Blue - Model LT74204001K
I personally own the Leatherman Juice CS4 and can tell you without hesitation it is an excellent quality tool. This model is one of the smaller frame versions of multi-tool I was referencing and while some may consider it too heavy or bulky, it can be carried in the pocket just like a pocket knife. In that way you have really put a mini tool box on your pocket. The pliers are substantial and each implement is well thought out and well executed. I can recommend all the Leatherman multi-tools as the Juice is not the only one I have owned. The Juice series does have one higher level model called the Thunder and I recommend that too, although the CS4 is the one I have had direct experience with so I went with that. |
Victorinox SwissChamp Swiss Army Knife, Red - 53501
31 implements (more than most multi-tools) and was around for decades before the first Leatherman ever saw light. I own a Swiss Champ which I keep in my briefcase and it goes with me every day. This is a great, great tool to have. The construction is excellent and the functionality is boundless. I love mine and could not do a multi-tool recommendation without including it. Yes, it is a large, bulky size for a pocket knife (which is why I carry in the briefcase), but it still is not as large as some of the larger multi-tools made on the pliers platform. Considering the quality and extent of what you get with this knife, as well as in comparison to the value found in other traditional multi tools, the price is very reasonable. |
 |
 |
Victorinox SwissTool rs Multi-Tool - 53935
Continuing with Victorinox brand, the Victorinox Swiss Tool is considered by many to be the Cadillac of multi-tools. Well made, solid construction and Swiss precision; with normal use this tool will last a lifetime. A very good choice, you will not go wrong here. |
Hunting Knives
Hunting is a shared tradition within families and communities, more in some parts of the country than others. For those who cherish that time of the season, I make these recommendations for you. As with all the recommendations, these picks are my personal opinion of good quality, value and functionality. You may prefer others, but I believe if you are looking for suggestions you won’t go wrong with these.
|
Boker Hunter Combo Set - Model BA5130H
This is a great package that gives you a main knife with huge belly for skinning and integral gut hook. It has a finger guard and deep finger groove for good grip. You also get a bonus caping knife for detail work and a leather sheath that carries both knives. Maybe too fancy for some tastes, I had to include as it is a tremendous package and great value. |
 |
 |
Buck Alpha Hunting Knife, Guthook, Mossy Oak, Model 693CMB
Buck is the proven American made hunting knife that doesn’t disappoint. This one has all the basic requirements: a deep belly, a gut hook, great grip for wet or dry, large finger groove to accommodate a gloved hand and it is even camouflaged. This is a solid choice and dependable performer. |
Spyderco Woodlander Hunting Knife, Model FB18P
Not everyone likes the gut hook included on their hunting knife, and for those of you I include this offering from Spyderco. It has a great wide blade with deep belly that is a single piece all the way through to the butt, so you should have no trouble with field dressing. The contoured handle locks your fingers in fore and aft and is made of Micarta. The sheath has a multi-position fastener. This is an excellent hunting knife that can double as an all around camp knife if light cutting and chopping is needed. Definitely a winner.
|
 |
|
|
|
