Choosing the right hunting knives

Autosummarize from www.huntingblades.com

Choosing the right hunting knife can be a difficult challenge.
Lets start with the two basic knife styles: fixed blade and folding. Fixed Blade knives is just that, meaning the blade is designed permanently fixed in the open position. Gerber, Case, Kershaw, and several other knife manufacturers also produce hunting knives that allow the user to swap out blades quickly and easily.Folding knives have a pivot point and lock mechanism, which allows the blade to close into the handle. Folding knives are naturally, by design, not as strong as fixed blade knives.

If you are looking for a dedicated hunting knife, I personally would go with a good quality fixed blade.
THE BLADE DESIGN
The three main hunting blade designs are the drop point, clip point and skinning designs.
The drop point hunting knife is an excellent design for the big game hunter. The other main hunting blade design is the clip point hunting knife. The flatter blade is more utilitarian and will fit the needs of the majority of hunters, especially those wishing to use the knife as a general duty work knife and not as a dedicated hunting knife. Skinning knife is designed to aid in the removal of the skin of big game animals.
GUT HOOK
Many of the hunting knives you will see will come with a gut hook. One thing to consider before purchasing a hunting knife with a gut hook design is the occasional need to sharpen the hook. Please note, that unlike the main blade of your new hunting knife, the gut hook is only sharpened on one side not two.
THE HANDLE
Many hunters put a lot of thought into the blade design of their hunting knife, but very little thought into the handle’s material. A knife that is overlooked is the Caping Knife, used for caping big game animals for mounting. Caping knifes are dedicated to this task. They are relatively small knives with very fine blades.

Golok, Indonesian stabbing knife

Golok, Indonesian style machette, is one of many Indonesian kinds of Knives. It comes from West Java region. Golok usually used as a stabbing knife. Actually I hate this term, because stabbing described as penetrating sharp point at close range, and always conected with murder. Or maybe better I say chopping knife ? because it also used for chopping branch, beside others utilities. Golok comes with many shape and dimension, the shortest blade about 20 centimetres long with wide blade (about 10 centimetres), and the longest about 1 metres long but has narrower blade (avg. 3 centimetres width).

Golok in many ways also called as Bedog, there is no different beetwen that name, Golok was found in ancient literacy called Sanghyang Siksakanda’ng Karesian (1518) which described Golok as noblemen hand weapon, meanwhile “Bedog” was found in Jonathan Rigg’s sunda-english dictionary (1862) as ordinary-daily people weapon/tools. From that two source, experts conclude that golok and Bedog are the same tools (M Sasmita, 2008).

Bedog, That’s the name I usually called and sounds and more familiar for me, as knife consist of Blade, Handle and Sheath. Bedog’s blade has one sharp edge with skinner like curve and flat back. Made from steel, and hand-forging-to shape, with sharpen and polish finishing. There’s no standard in bedog’s material some of bedog’s maker say that american jeep’s spring is the best, while the other say train rails is the best. But in the right hand with proper making and heat treating techniques every steel can e made into a good quality bedog. For exact result best material such as ATS 34, ST 60 or other high quality steel can be made into good quality bedog, for this purpose T.Kardin Indonesia is the best name for it.

Bedog’s handle usually made from wood, It’s origin used half-sharp tang and fitted into after driling a hole on that wood. There are many kind of handle style, some of them are ngeluk, lutung moyan and pingping hayam. and todays, some bedog maker also make it in full tang style.
Bedog’s sheath made from wood, sometimes it made with many ornaments, There many name of sheath ornamen such as simeut meuting, barlen, etc.

Nowadays bedog still become Sundaneese main tools, as we can found it at countryside. So don’t be strange if you find sundaneese man walking with bedog on his waist, because in some places in sunda region bedog still use as everyday-carry tools and also showing their pride as a man.

Autosummarize from www.thekhukurihouse.com

There are two names for this knife that are now universally accepted, “Khukuri” or “Kukri”. However Khukuri is more known as “Kukri” in the western world and beyond which we see is an anglicized version of the British when they first discovered the knife.

With khukuri’s origin going back to ancient times, the khukuri is not only the national knife of Nepal but is also symbolic of the Gurkha soldier, a prized possession with which he has indelibly carved an identity for himself. This custom still exists although the size and type of khukuri have significantly changed and improvised.

In the Gurkha soldier’s grip, this seemingly small piece of curved steel called Khukuri or Kukri sometimes, becomes an incredibly menacing weapon with which he has demonstrated rare feats of bravery while facing the enemy in many a battlefield.

The khukuri is a medium-length curved knife each Gurkha soldier carries with him in uniform and in battle.In his grip, it is a formidable razor-sharp weapon and a cutting tool. At present, khukuri is recognized as the national knife of Nepal. Known more than being just a revered and effective weapon, the khukuri is also the peaceful all-purpose knife of the hill people of Nepal.

The khukuri blades have always varied much in quality. Old heavy vehicles spring (suspension) steel has always been the source of a good quality khukuri blade. Army khukuris issued to the Gurkhas during the World War era had stampings like name of manufacturer, inspection date, issue date and sometimes name of the military unit. Khukuris were than longer and more curved than the current issues. Along with traditional and village khukuris even the army knives have intensely changed over the years to adapting to the modern times and its developments. of the handle and steel rivets are fixed to secure the handle to the tang and a pommel plate or butt cap is also fitted at the end to enhance the total fixture; this type is called as “Panawal Handle”. Most of ancient khukuris used to have wooden handle with rat tail tang however, surprisingly, the tail did not come all the way through the handle. The handles were curved unlike the modern ones and had steel or iron fixtures in most cases.

The khukuri is carried in scabbard, “Dap” in Nepalese, where normally 2 pieces of wooden frames are covered with water buffalo hide or other domesticated animal parts and may or may not have brass or steel protective chape depending on the type of khukuri. Khukuri scabbard like the blade and handle has come a long way with many changes and modifications along the way to keep up with the ever changing time and need. Scabbards from early days did not have belt frog and people used untreated untainted raw leather hide just for the mere shake of carrying the Khukuri blade. Some khukuris have decorative scabbard with beautifully well done wooden, horn, silver, brass work and sometimes ivory. Khukuri that are especially intended for display purpose, are given extra time and effort to its scabbard by using horns, wood and other expensive decorative materials crafting beautiful designs and carvings with traditional and religious symbols in the scabbard. Khukuri scabbard also has two pockets at the back that carry blunt steel called “Chakmak” for sharpening the khukuri blade and also for striking sparks from flint and a little sharp knife called “Karda” used as a small utility knife. It is only after the mid 20th century Karda and Chakmak were again placed back in the Gurkha knives to maintain the khukuri tradition. Most khukuri at present have Karda Chakmak however Khalti is ignored. Khukuri made in the Eastern village Bhojpur, very famous for khukuris, make fat thick blade where as Sirupate, the most famous khukuri in Nepal is very slim and thin. Khukuris made during the 18th and 19th century was much longer and more curved than its modern counterparts.

source: tapistujuh.com

Survival Knives to Avoid

To the inexperienced, survival knives often conjure up images of the huge Rambo type knives as glorified in Hollywood movies. Though they look like potent weapons that can take on the world, these oversized knives are a far cry from the best of knives used by survival experts. The big knives suffer from being difficult to control as they are overly heavy and bulky. Many needs of the survivor require finer detail work than can readily be accomplished with this kind of blade.

Double edged knives are used mostly for thrusting. Because their tips are relatively weak they are prone to breaking. In addition, the second edge is an unneeded edge that can lead to injury.

Many survival knives are sold that have hollow handles, the idea being you can store survival essentials like matches and compass inside the water tight handle. One problem hollow handled survival knives have is that they are prone to being weaker than the solid handle variety. There are exceptions, but generally you are better off storing your survival gear elsewhere. One advantage to this is that should you loose your knife you will still have the remainder of your survival gear to rely upon.

The best outdoor survival knives are actually quite unassuming. Inexperienced outdoorsmen and survivalists will often pass them over to select blades that will mark them as survival neophytes to those who are in the know.
source : www.survivaltopics.com

Boker Solid Fixed Hunting Knife 3-1/4" D2 Steel Blade and Birchwood Handle

A rugged yet handy outdoor and hunting knife, designed by Swiss knifemaker and forger Thomas Künzi. The hollow-ground blade is made of D2 steel and boasts excellent edge-holding capability. The handle scales are made of carefully selected grained birchwood, and their generous dimensions are designed to provide a comfortable grip, even for longer use. The pommel of the full tang blade doubles as a punch or a hammer, and the notches on the blade spine allow extra control for precise cutting tasks. All in all, a more than "solid" concept which combines many years of experience in knifemaking and outdoor activities with a very unique piece. Includes lanyard and high quality leather sheath. Blade thickness: 4mm. Overall length: 7 3/8". Blade length: 3 1/4". Weight: 4.2 oz.
source : knifecenter.com

BOKER's Savannah

This professional hunting and outdoor knife has an impressive blade and elegant flowing lines in its design. The concept of this piece, by Armin Stütz (from the Austrian Knife Forge “Steirer Eisen”), was created due to experiences with big game hunting in Africa and in cooperation with professional rangers, and was approved under these harsh conditions. The massive blade features an attractive two-tone finish, and is made of N690B0 steel, which is a special alloy containing cobalt, exclusively created in a collaboration between Austrian steel manufacturer Böhler and Böker. This high performance steel can handle any cutting task, and the full tang design of this piece provides extraordinary strength and stability. The elaborately grooved canvas micarta scales provide not only a characteristic look but also an extremely secure grip, even when wearing gloves or in wet conditions. A red fiber underlay enhances its unique design. Stainless steel bolsters and a lanyard hole complete this high class knife. A reliable and powerful companion for all outdoor activities. High quality leather sheath included. Blade thickness: 3/8”. Overall length: 9 3/8”. Blade length: 5”. Weight: 7.8 oz.
source: www.knifecenter.com

Collectible Knives For Beginners

So, you want to collect knives! Collecting knives is a rewarding hobby that pays off in satisfaction, pride, and an investment in products that will grow in value over the years. Some knife collectibles become valuable heirlooms that are passed generation to generation.

Before you begin, the first thing you want to do is come to a decision about what kind of collectible knives you want to pursue. You might want to pursue collectible pocket knives, limited edition knives of a different makes and models, or antique collectible knives. The best collectibles knives are going to be the ones that give you the most pleasure. So, take your time and do some research before investing too much money.

Some people decide to focus on a particular brand of knives, like collectible Case knives, limited edition Marbles, or old timer pocketknives from Schrade. Others decide to collect a certain type of material, such as pearl handled or stag. Buck bowie knives are also a popular type of knife to collect. They do take up quite a bit more room, so you may want to plan ahead to make sure of what space you'll have to keep your precious collectibles in.

Once you determine what kind of knife you want to collect, it's time to decide how you want to begin collecting your knives. Some people will start one knife at a time. You can give your family and friends a list of the knives you are hoping to add to your collection so they can buy them for you for gifts on the holidays. Some specialty or online stores will offer incentives or discounts for collectors, so make sure to ask around for this as well.

Make it a point to find out where and when the local knife shows are being held in your area. Visiting the different vendors at a knife show can give you more information than most of the books that are out on the market. The dealers also love to talk about their products, so you will learn a lot and might find some excellent deals on new knives to add to your collection!

Talking about books, you will want to look into Levine's Guide to Knives and Their Values. It's considered the bible of knife collecting. The Official Price Guide to Collector Knives, 14 th Ed by Houston Price is also an excellent resource. Then there are a myriad of knife forums and even collectors associations, such as The National Knife Collectors Association where you will also find much information and others who share your interest.

Once you have three or more knives, it's time to decide how you want to store them so that they will retain original quality and value. There are a variety of knife storage and display cases available. If you want to keep your knives displayed for your every day viewing pleasure, you will want a glass topped display box, possibly to hang on your wall. Knife rolls will also keep your knives protected and you can store them virtually anywhere that is dry and away from extreme temperatures.

I hope this article has given you some good direction on where to get started. In no time at all, you will become a knife-collecting connoisseur. As an excellent knife-maker Darrel Ralph once said, “Beware, like any other hobby, knife collecting can become addictive!”

Source : www.ebladestore.com

Buck's Ergo Hunter

In early 2009 Buck Knives has expanded their knife catalog to include a wider range of innovative products, they've never lost focus on their roots. So it's no surprise that their impressive range of new knives being introduced at the 2009 SHOT Show is headed by new hunting knives.

There are two ErgoHunterTM series, which quickly reveal their name origin as soon as you pick one up. Just holding it in your hand you will discover how it was designed ergonomically for the perfect fit, eliminating fatigue with use.

The three larger ErgoHunter Skinners are available in the product levels, all offering the same basic features, but using different materials depending on consumer needs or desires. They each have a thicker 4-3/4” full-tang blade with a generous belly design that is perfect for skinning, with added grip ridges and an extra large choil for better gripping and control. Blades come in a choice of quality steels. With an overall length of 9-3/4”, these skinners weigh 8.2 oz. for both the Pro and Select versions and 9.2 oz. for the Avid version.

The Pro version Model 498 ErgoHunter has an S30V blade and a 420HC guthook ring. The handle is Rosewood Dymondwood® inlaid into black Alcryn® rubber for a comfortable, sure grip. It comes with a dual-pocket burgundyleather sheath. MSRP is $190 for the two-piece set: knife and guthook ring.

The Avid Model 497 has a 12C27Mod SandvikTM steel blade, and is available either as a straight skinner or with a guthook. It has a Rosewood Dymondwood handle and comes with a leather sheath. MSRP is $130, or $136with guthook.

The third option with the same advanced blade design is the Select Model 495 with a textured Alcryn rubber handle that provides a very comfortable, sure grip, and a heavy-duty nylon sheath. The blade is Buck's reliable 420HC steel, with a choice of straight skinner or with a guthook. MSRP is $80, or $86 with guthook.

Quoted from : Buck News

Case-Gut Hook Hunter

Here comes my another Favourite Hunting Knives, it's Gut Hook Hunting Knife, Made by Case Knives.

www.huntingblades.com review that any hunter would be proud to use this knife with confidence, this knife offers the hunter everything needed in one package. This hunting knife features a gut hook and a blade design that makes skinning your trophy a snap. With the included leather sheath this is a handful that any hunter would be proud to use with confidence.

other thing, beside it's gut hook,that make me put it into my favourite is it's drop poit design.This design generally features a robust, curved blade of relatively thick steel. These features allow the user to cut the skin off the animal using the entire edge of the knife, rather than just the point. This allows for quick skinning and very little damage to the meat. The design of the drop point, also allows for other field cleaning tasks such as gutting and the splitting of the rib cage and pelvis, although a saw or hatchet is the preferred tool for the latter to tasks.
source : www.huntingblades.com

KA-BAR press release

Olean, NY
KA-BAR Knives, Inc., a subsidiary of Alcas Corporation, introduces three new leather handled hunting knives.
Two of the knives, the #1235 Marine Hunter and the #1236 Bowie, are reproductions of knives previously offered by KA-BAR more than 30 years ago. Both styles are part of a line of products that have been popular since the early 1900’s.
The third knife, the #1234 Game Hook, melds together the classic styling and construction of the original leather handled hunters and the newer and always popular gut hook blade.
The Game Hook measures 7-1/4” overall, blade length 3-1/4”; the Marine Hunter measures 10-3/4” overall, blade length 5-7/8”; and the Bowie measures 11-13/16”, blade length 6-15/16”. All knives are sold with a brown leather KA-BAR sheath.
source : www.ka-bar.com

Buck Hunting Knives

Hunting Knives, one of Buck's Speciality. It's one of their heritage, with that the Buck Family started their business, and still continued until present.

It's easy-to-carry, lightness, and toughness are their advantage which every hunters search for.

For example this Gen-5 Hunting knife. Josh Buck took many of the same design elements that made great grandfather's knife so popular and created the Gen-5. By taking out the bulk typically found in skinning knives, the Gen-5 functions impeccably without added weight.


Next knife and become my favourite is Buck's Alpha Hunter. It's Full tang construction and ergonomic design makes this the premier hunting knife for any big game hunter. The contoured handle and grip ridges integrated into the top of the blade tang make maneuvering through field dressing a breeze.

Indonesian Knive Makers

Indonesian Knives, has it’s own culture with Indonesian Touch of culture and arts, There are many kind of knives from all of the country, every knife represent different culture of each province. Kujang from Jawa Barat (West Java), Kris from Jawa Tengah (Central Java), Mandau from Kalimantan and others, they all came with their own beauty and purpose.

There are many Indonesian knive makers, while in West they called as Blacksmith, in Indonesia they also have different name, such as Panday at Jawa Barat, Mpu from jawa tengah and others.

T. KARDIN KNIVES WORKSHOP - PISAU INDONESIA (Kardin Pisau Indonesia) is one of Indonesian knives workshop that promise you for their products which are hand made. Kardin Pisau Indonesia uses materials from D2, 440C and ATS-34 (AISI standard) or Damascus with high quality. With solid high quality steel along with serious touch, dedication, precision engineered and high artistic image in making knives, as the result they always breed exclusive, beautiful and magnificent knives, but we still can use and utilized it as excellent knives with it's sharpness, strength and durability.

Kardin Pisau Indonesia has served many desire and request from its fans and now they can take your orders. Kardin Pisau Indonesia can take order for knives in many shapes, or you can make your own design, your own creation. They give choices for blade materials such as D2, 440C and ATS-34 (AISI standard) or Damascus, deer's horn, buffalo's horn and ebony's woods and another tropical wood for handle. And offcourse every knife you've order, already wrap in a beautiful handmade knife case leather.

Interest to knows more ?? just visit

www.tokopisau.com

Hunting Knives

Hunting Knives are often adapted for other uses in the wild, some hunters may use them as machete or hatchete while others use it as skinner, in the right hand, it can be a survival knives.

Some hunters wants a knife that’s easy to carry, not too heavy, but tough enough to get the job done. Fixed-blade and folder knives are both excellent choices.

Usually hunting knives are traditionally designed for cutting rather than stabbing, and have only one Hunting sharpened edge. The blade is slightly curved, and some hunting knives may have a blade that has both a curved portion for skinning, and a straight portion for cutting slices of meat.

In some cases hunting knives also have a blade which curved same as machete or khukri, For this case this kind of knife can be used as multi purpose hunting knives.