Ultralight Knives

Posted by: Beardog

Ultralight Knives - 04/09/08 02:33 AM

I love backpacking and wilderness survival. I wanted to share some feelings about knives and their place in backpacking and hiking. I am a gear tester of sorts and write reviews on outdoor gear and post them on many outdoors sites. I usually am contacted by companies to do photos and tests of knives in the outdoors.
When I am backpacking I usually just carry a Swiss Army Knife. When I am day hiking I have less gear as far as shelter and sleeping gear but always carry the survival basics. I also tend to carry a small stout knife for emergency shelter construction, fire and food prep. I wanted to share a knife that you backpackers, and hikers might find usefull. I just did a huge phot review for a knife maker from Nebraska and wanted to share this with you guys.

Breeden Knives
PSKK II (Personal Survival Kit Knife)
It is only 2.5 oz. and has a full tang. Perfect for backpacking and summit attempts.


Splitting wood for emergency fire

Shaving fuzz sticks for tinder

Tarp stakes

In hand
Posted by: Hector

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/09/08 06:36 AM

What, no photos of the spine?
Posted by: tcrace

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/09/08 06:54 AM

Thanks for the photos, I really like the looks of that knife. I think bright colored handles are especially useful in a "working" knife even if they aren't as pretty as wood, bone, or antler. What steel is used? Is there a website where curios "knife nuts" like myself can see more?
Posted by: frenchie

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/09/08 09:33 AM

Amongst the many knives I have made, some have a titanium blade/tang. Tough material to work, titanium sheets! But 1 mm thickness is good enough for small sized knives, that go very lightweight if you also use light woods for handles.
Posted by: Beardog

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/09/08 11:35 AM

Since you guys are interested.

Breeden Knives Made in America!


Bryan Breeden is a knife maker out of Nebraska. He spends much of his time in the woods cutting trees for a living and making knives when the weather is bad. While growing up Bryan spent his youth hunting, trapping and fishing. After talking with Bryan about knives and the outdoors I realized we shared a lot of the same views on what we use knives for. Being in the Marines Bryan was exposed to all aspects of survival and the importance of a knife. He is currently using 01 tool steel and orange G-10 scales. Welcome Breeden Knives and lets hope the weather stays bad at least in your neck of the woods!


PSKK II

Specs:

Steel-01

Blade Length-4" Drop Point

Thickness 3/32"

Cutting Surface-3 7/8"

Overall-7 3/4"

RC-59-60



The PSKK II (Personal Survival Kit Knife) is very light making it perfect for backpacking and summit attempts. This is the bigger brother to the PSKK which has a 3" blade. If you ever wanted a thin lightweight full tang knife perfect for whittling and making trap notches then this is it. Combined with a chopper you can cover all the bases. Very handy size in between a neck knife and a small sheath knife. Imagine a Mora 510 meets CS Roach Belly and you got the PSKK II. This knife is a joy to use in the kitchen and in the woods.


Bryan Breeden
tacklebreeden@yahoo.com or
402-300-0058.



Compared against a swedish mora 510


spine is 3/32" thick

can be seen easily if you drop it
Posted by: demo

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/11/08 11:03 PM

I've always been a big fan of fixed blade knives -- especially important in a survival situations -- and I've owned a CRKT Carson F4 for a while. I don't think they make it any more, but you might be able to find it somewhere:



That said, I really like this one. Especially the bright orange handle.
Posted by: Beardog

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/13/08 04:09 AM

That looks light. What are the specs? Thanks for sharing. Knives while backpacking can be a subject for debate with most.
Posted by: JimM_PA

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/13/08 11:04 AM

What are the approximate prices of the blades? Do they come with sheaths?
Jim
Posted by: demo

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/13/08 07:27 PM

Quote:
That looks light. What are the specs? Thanks for sharing. Knives while backpacking can be a subject for debate with most.


Here is what I could dig up.

Specifications:
Blade Length: 2.50 in. (6.4 cm)
Blade Shape: Modified Drop Point
Blade Steel: AUS 6M, 55-57 HRC
Carry System: Zytel® Sheath
Clip: Pocket/Gear clip
Handle Material: Textured Zytel Scales
Knife Type: Fixed Blade
Length Overall: 5.50 in. (14.0 cm)
Weight: 1.3 oz. (37 g)

As a general rule I carry two knives when I'm backpacking, the one mentioned above and a small multi-tool (Leatherman Squirt S4). Each fills a different and specific job in my opinion.
Posted by: bigfoot2

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/13/08 08:53 PM

1.3 oz. for the knife AND sheath, or just the knife alone?
Posted by: Beardog

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/13/08 10:00 PM

Quote:
What are the approximate prices of the blades? Do they come with sheaths?
Jim

Yes handmade leather. Give Bryan a call I think his info is posted.
Posted by: Narf

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/13/08 10:18 PM

squirt pretty durable? Almost picked one up just for some tiny pliers, but almost looked too small ....
Posted by: finallyME

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/14/08 07:05 AM

I love knifes. I have a few that I have collected. I have always carried knives into the woods. Remember this when I ask some critical questions. Basically I am going to play devil's advocate to get a good discussion out of this, and to stir things up.

[quote]I love backpacking and wilderness survival. I wanted to share some feelings about knives and their place in backpacking and hiking. I am a gear tester of sorts and write reviews on outdoor gear and post them on many outdoors sites. I usually am contacted by companies to do photos and tests of knives in the outdoors.
When I am backpacking I usually just carry a Swiss Army Knife. When I am day hiking I have less gear as far as shelter and sleeping gear but always carry the survival basics. I also tend to carry a small stout knife for emergency shelter construction, fire and food prep. I wanted to share a knife that you backpackers, and hikers might find usefull. I just did a huge phot review for a knife maker from Nebraska and wanted to share this with you guys.

Breeden Knives
PSKK II (Personal Survival Kit Knife)
It is only 2.5 oz. and has a full tang. Perfect for backpacking and summit attempts.[quote]


You say that when you are backpacking that you usually just carry a swiss army knife. Why would this knife (the PSKK II) be better for backpacking? Why is it perfect for backpacking, as opposed to a small knife and a pair of scissors for the same weight? I can see the benefit for a day hike while not carrying shelter, sleeping gear, or cooking gear, and why it might be considered a survival basic. But, remember this is lightweight backpacking. Normally a lightweight backpacker doesn't need to leave his/her gear at a camp site to go on a day hike.

Now, I don't summit much, and I have never summited a peak with year round snow (Mt Rainier, Mt Baker, etc.). What are the benefits of a fixed blade knife while summiting? Why is this knife perfect for summit attempts?

Before you think I am trying to overly criticize the knife, I will add a few things. I really like the knife. The size is great, the choice in steel is well made, and the overall craftsmanship looks superb. I also normally carry a large fixed blade knife when I go backpacking, but I can honestly say that I have never, ever, used it for anything.

Something to think about and debate.

<img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
Posted by: Beardog

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/14/08 04:01 PM

Hey thanks for opening the discussion.
I know alot of knife enthusists always carry too much steel with them. I carry a Swiss Army One Handed Trekker with the serrations ground down. For me I feel pretty good about this since I have done wilderness and jungle survival classes in Peru. I know what I am capable of doing with a saw, blade and awl of an SAK. If I am by myself I will have a small fixed blade with a full tang that can split wrist size pieces of wood for emergency fire starting when things are wet. Now there are exceptions when I have hiked with a Tramontina 12" machete (10 oz) that is very light and could do almost all knife chores like whittle wood, split wood for dry inside or chop shelter poles, slice and make all kinds of things. Remember that the average big chopping knife or hatchet weigh about 1 pound and a half. There are many people that always feel they have to have a knife in the woods and I am one of them but within reason. When I was going to the Grand Canyon I noticed a few folders clipped to peoples pockets and not much else. I agree with this since you are on heavily traveled trails with not much need for a knife in general. When I am in Lytle Creek CA backpacking or hiking I may not see anyone and the trails are harsh and empty. The chances of being in a survival situation there are high, I have been cought in a horrible snow storm there at 5,000 which is kind of low for snow in the first place. The trails are full of wind blown branches and trees large and small. I always have to saw branches or chop to clear the trails there. It is a place where I see lots of fixed blades on peoples belt if there is anyone in the first place.

Summit attempts.
Not everyone carries an SAK with them but maybe a fixed blade or nothing at all. I was hiking Mt. Whitney last july and noticed many people leaving their gear in the camp at 12,??? feet and making the climb to 14,035 with just water, rain gear and some emergency type things. We usually go very light to make the summit so grabbing a small light knife would be ideal. For those that don't like the weight of a fixed blade like a K-Bar, RAT Cutlery, TOPS, Becker, Busse, could get a small Breeden that weighs 2.5 oz and can do big work.

Cool that was fun.
Posted by: hootyhoo

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/14/08 04:40 PM

Tools should be used for their intended purpose - chopping wood with a tiny little knife is not a good idea. And why would you. I have camped for a long time and have never, ever, ever , not once, ever HAD to chop wood. I have chopped wood with a hatchet, but I did not have to.
Exactly which survival situation are we considering that would necessitate the use of a fixed blade over a folding knife?
Knives are cool- and the one you have shown in your post is a real beauty - but chopping wood with a knife is about as useless as shaving your butt hair with one in my opinion.
Posted by: bigfoot2

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/14/08 08:23 PM

Hey.....don't knock shaving your butt hair, man! Some of us can't help being hairy! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" />
Posted by: Beardog

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/14/08 08:53 PM

Quote:
Tools should be used for their intended purpose - chopping wood with a tiny little knife is not a good idea. And why would you. I have camped for a long time and have never, ever, ever , not once, ever HAD to chop wood. I have chopped wood with a hatchet, but I did not have to.
Exactly which survival situation are we considering that would necessitate the use of a fixed blade over a folding knife?
Knives are cool- and the one you have shown in your post is a real beauty - but chopping wood with a knife is about as useless as shaving your butt hair with one in my opinion.


I hear you. I am not a big chopper of wood but have used knives to split wood to get to the inside where its dry for a fire. This is mainly while car camping which I really don't do much of. I don't think one would ever want to chop wood with a small knife.

The question about a fixed blade over a folder is just a matter of preference to us all. I carry an SAK and that is a folding knife. Fixed blades would be better suited for day hiking without a full pack where you may get lost or need to spend an unexpected night or two in the forest. You can't baton wrist size pieces of wood for an emergency shelter or get to the dry wood if its damp with a folding knife.
Posted by: hootyhoo

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/15/08 04:25 PM

Thank you bigfoot for your reactiion to my comment---

After careful consideration I retract my comment about the uselessness of rump grooming, and apologize to those that partake in this ritual. I hope that my comments have not offended those smooth bottomed persons among us.
Shave on, my friends.
Posted by: bigfoot2

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/15/08 08:04 PM

Now that's better <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
Posted by: finallyME

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/16/08 06:27 AM

If I was a smooth bottomed person, I would have been greatly offended. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> But, since I am not, I enjoyed your comment. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
Posted by: demo

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/16/08 11:25 PM

1.3 oz each, 2.6 oz total.
Posted by: demo

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/16/08 11:27 PM

yes, made just the same as their larger knives. Remember, S4 == scissors and P4 == pliers.
Posted by: demo

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/16/08 11:42 PM

Quote:
Exactly which survival situation are we considering that would necessitate the use of a fixed blade over a folding knife?


Not necessarily in survival situation, but a fixed knife (one with a full tang) doesn't run the risk of closing on your hand/fingers while you're cranking down on it, nor is it as strong. A locking mechanism helps, but is no substitute. In most cases, a folding knife should serve as a backup or supplement to your primary fixed knife.

http://www.equipped.org/devices10.htm

just my 1.02176356 pence, YMMV.
Posted by: Jimshaw

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/17/08 03:38 PM

Demo
Geez I thought my primary backup was the samari sword in case my gun jams. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> The tantau of course is for 2 handed fighting with the short sword. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" /> I guess my Gerber LST (1.5 oz) backs up the Tantau. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />
O man - I probably need backup scissors as well. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" />

I have come to the conclusion that the only normal realistic CAMPING activity you can do with a knife - sharp or dull [besides fashiopning a spear] - is slicing food. I find that a sharp knife cuts the bottom of the paper plate and cuts the aluminum cookware. A dull knife can slice my steak. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />

OTOH a tiny pair of embroidery scissors can cut fabric in a straight line - your knife can't, and it can clip a single thread out, whereas your knife can only make a jagged hole. A knife is almost worthless for doing repairs compared to scissors.
AND there ARE cooking scissors completely eliminating the need for kitchen knifes at all - only butter knifes and steak knifes are required. Unless you eat reconstituted dirt - er freeze dried - then tell me need a razor sharp knife to eat soup <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />
<img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
Jim <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif" alt="" />
Posted by: finallyME

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/17/08 03:45 PM

Quote:

I have come to the conclusion that the only normal realistic CAMPING activity you can do with a knife - sharp or dull [besides fashioning a spear] - is slicing food. I find that a sharp knife cuts the bottom of the paper plate and cuts the aluminum cookware. A dull knife can slice my steak. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />

OTOH a tiny pair of embroidery scissors can cut fabric in a straight line - your knife can't, and it can clip a single thread out, whereas your knife can only make a jagged hole. A knife is almost worthless for doing repairs compared to scissors.
AND there ARE cooking scissors completely eliminating the need for kitchen knifes at all - only butter knifes and steak knifes are required. Unless you eat reconstituted dirt - er freeze dried - then tell me need a razor sharp knife to eat soup <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />
<img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
Jim <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif" alt="" />


Jim, you need to post this on your sharp knife post. seriously. Someone was asking about why use scissors.
Posted by: Beardog

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/17/08 07:51 PM

I always like the idea of small scissors like on the classic or the esquire.
Posted by: wandering_daisy

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/17/08 08:19 PM

I am a 100% scissors person. I threw out the knife a long time ago. Same time I threw out the compass when I realized I had not used it in 20 years.
Posted by: demo

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/18/08 12:10 AM

True, my knife can't do those things, but my backup can.

http://www.leatherman.com/products/tools/s4/default.asp

In total, the two knives I carry are both tiny and add up to a mere 4 or so ounces. I know a lot of people never use nor ever find a reason to use a knife while backpacking, but I carry two because I often have a need of both of them (but not together...).
Posted by: Earthling

Re: Ultralight Knives - 05/08/08 06:33 PM

Quote:
Quote:
Tools should be used for their intended purpose - chopping wood with a tiny little knife is not a good idea. And why would you. I have camped for a long time and have never, ever, ever , not once, ever HAD to chop wood. I have chopped wood with a hatchet, but I did not have to.
Exactly which survival situation are we considering that would necessitate the use of a fixed blade over a folding knife?
Knives are cool- and the one you have shown in your post is a real beauty - but chopping wood with a knife is about as useless as shaving your butt hair with one in my opinion.


I hear you. I am not a big chopper of wood but have used knives to split wood to get to the inside where its dry for a fire. This is mainly while car camping which I really don't do much of. I don't think one would ever want to chop wood with a small knife.

The question about a fixed blade over a folder is just a matter of preference to us all. I carry an SAK and that is a folding knife. Fixed blades would be better suited for day hiking without a full pack where you may get lost or need to spend an unexpected night or two in the forest. You can't baton wrist size pieces of wood for an emergency shelter or get to the dry wood if its damp with a folding knife.


The last sentence above is pure bunk.....first of all you CAN split wood with a large sak like a OHT, and baton carefully it will do the job. Second, I don't have to go all the way to Peru to learn how to start a fire from wet wood. The basics of starting a fire IIRC are just working up in wood sizes until you have the size fire you desire/need. If this involves having 'to get to the inside of wet wood', branches less than wrist size will suffice until it dries out your larger wood. If you can't 'split' a 2-3" diameter piece of branch/wood with a 4" blade then you need more patience. Seems to have worked ok for me for 35 years!

A fixed blade knife is nothing more than a big boy 'security blanket' in the dark woods. It can't multi task like a SAK can, and that is exactly why YOU carry a SAK camping/backpacking; because a SAK IS the original multitool <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" /> A larger fixed blade knife is just an accident waiting to happen in camp...just ask Jim <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
Posted by: northernbcr

Re: Ultralight Knives - 05/26/08 10:32 PM

this knife is nice but in my opinion it is not sturdy enough for a true survival knife.thse are my reasons,1-i dont feel the blade is sturdy or large enough to handle the shelter making or firewood duties that a survival knife would have to do. 2- the handle would become slippery when covered in blood if used for self defence.3-there is not enough finger protection to stop your hand from sliding on to blade during use. 4- some of the blade should be serrated for sawing action.thesurvival knife is your most imp emerg tool and no one should skimp in this area
Posted by: Earthling

Re: Ultralight Knives - 05/29/08 11:33 AM

There are plenty of 'survival type' websites out there for folks who want to go there. Most of us here have been backpacking for many years and have built up our skills along the way. Hence, when I head out on a backpacking trip I am not thinking 'Rambo' . rather, I am already prepared in my skills and have taken sufficient actions to safeguard my return when I am due back from my trip. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />

If one is'nt proficient in rudimentry knife skills for use in the backcountry, no amount of fancy, or not, fixed blade is going to save them. Knowledge 'saves' your butt in the Bush, everything you carry is utilized by that knowledge to get you home. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />

Take a minute to go out in your backyard, with your swiss army knife that most of you carry. Now find a couple dry branches/pieces of dry wood, about 1" to 2" in diameter/10"-12" in length. Find a flat spot on the ground to rest one end of a piece of the wood. Wearing gloves and using the longest blade on your sak press down into the upper end of the piece of wood. Ok, you have started the wood now see if by gently pressing down if the width of the blade alone can split the length of the wood. If not then you may need to use a stout piece of wood tapping on the exposed end of the knife blade in order to 'encourage it'. No need for caveman like pounding here; you're attempting to get the wood to split naturally with the grain. ALWAYS hold the knife handle gently, not tightly, to prevent any strain from being brought upon the knife's blade joint. It should be possible depending upon wood species you've chosen to split these wee branches/ pieces of wood with your sak.

All fires need a tinder base to start, then progressively larger wood to fuel the fire. Once you have sourced the smaller wood with your hands (think pencil sized); gradually get large pieces. There is no need to split larger 4-6" diameter wood as you can dry it next to your smaller fire before adding it. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />

Don't buy into the hype that you must have a certain knife, size, steel or otherwise in order make a fire or do any other tasks in camp or on the trail. Scissors work great for 75% of the tasks you'll encounter, and an average knife in knowledgable hands out works a fancy knife in less skilled hands everytime. Let's see, cavemen were using what to split their wood and start their fires <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />...not even a sak! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />
Posted by: Hector

Re: Ultralight Knives - 05/29/08 11:57 AM

While it may be true that, in the hands of a master, anything is a deadly weapon, I still suggest that you not attack the grizzly bear armed only with one sheet of single ply toilet paper, grasshopper.
Posted by: Earthling

Re: Ultralight Knives - 05/29/08 12:15 PM

Granted, as we all know how large a dump a bear can take after a berry feast <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> 2 plies fer sure! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />

For practical purposes most backpackers do not need the overkill of a large knife, they may, or may not use was my point. Mostly it's a matter of finances placed on individual items that are used the most in daily backpacking that get the priority funding. Some folks like more expensive knives, others more expensive sleeping bags, both are enjoying what they brought.
Posted by: phat

Re: Ultralight Knives - 05/29/08 03:45 PM

Quote:
Granted, as we all know how large a dump a bear can take after a berry feast <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> 2 plies fer sure! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />



Well, more like three big blobs - in the case of a grizzly - (BTW this was very fresh - we saw this bear )






Posted by: northernbcr

Re: Ultralight Knives - 05/29/08 05:39 PM

in the areas that you other people hike is a knife not needed as part of your bear defence strategy
Posted by: Jimshaw

Re: Ultralight Knives - 05/29/08 07:04 PM

phat
woah - thats grizz scat? <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" /> Our steller jays can out do that, and our hummingbirds - big as buzzards I tell ya. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

was sittin in a berry patch with the wife one day in Yosemite and she says "what does bear scat look like?" I pointed to some right between her feet <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
Shoulda seen her face. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
Jim
Posted by: Hector

Re: Ultralight Knives - 05/29/08 09:11 PM

What, no bells in there?
Posted by: phat

Re: Ultralight Knives - 05/29/08 10:25 PM


Yep, that's mr grizz, eatin berries.

Those are 3 inch pine needles Jim - I know stellars jays - that pile is the size of several of them <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />
Posted by: johndavid

Re: Ultralight Knives - 05/30/08 12:58 AM

Nice blade. Lovely bit of manufacturing...Looks like a great tool...

But what do you mean by saying that you "like wilderness survival?"

I mean, as opposed to what exactly? Or, sorry, can you explain this term in slight detail?

And why is this knife "good for a summit attempt?"



..An old Kamp King was my standby for many years, until Homeland Security confiscated the thing. My favorite knife of all time was a "Girl Scout" brand of slightly higher quality than "Kamp King." My second-favorite was a mid-priced "Case" brand hunting knife that my room-mate from Harlem held at my throat for half an hour in a dark room back in 1973.. (We're friends now).

I think my current brand is CRAP "Opinel" or equivalent for past several years. It's pretty light.

They tried to sell this as something fancy in the first "Early Winters" catalog back around 1980.... Remember their Epoke skis and Goretex tents? These pre-dated other Goretex tents that I was aware of by several years. Though of course "Revair" was something earlier....and much worse.

But take it from me.....Opinel knives are a cheap piece of garbage.... Does the job though......... If I avoid cutting self, I consider use of any knife a great success.



Posted by: phat

Re: Ultralight Knives - 05/30/08 07:42 AM

Quote:

But take it from me.....Opinel knives are a cheap piece of garbage.... Does the job though......... If I avoid cutting self, I consider use of any knife a great success.


What's your beef about the Opinel? My two go to knives for backpacking are a simple Swiss Army, and
a little Opinel - I've had the Opinel for quite a while and like it a lot. - heck I even field dressed a moose
with it!

Now sure, it's no bowie knife, and don't expect to pry open an alligators jaw with it. but it works.
Posted by: Earthling

Re: Ultralight Knives - 05/30/08 09:58 AM

Quote:
What, no bells in there?


<img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Nope, musta' digested all those 1980's-'90's era backpackers by now <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" /> Trails sure are quieter <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

What a dang waste of good berries I tell ya! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" /> Now be honest Phat, if youse was starvin' on one of those man vs ratings shows would'nt ya' just reach right down and get yer'self a handful of berries <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />

<img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />..."you guys up there carry a big knife against those bears don't ya?".... <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> Sure pal, anything you see on tv is applicable out here in the real world <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />
Posted by: phat

Re: Ultralight Knives - 05/30/08 12:56 PM

Quote:

What a dang waste of good berries I tell ya! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" /> Now be honest Phat, if youse was starvin' on one of those man vs ratings shows would'nt ya' just reach right down and get yer'self a handful of berries <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />


<Dramatically holding up a handfull of saskatoon berry riddled bear scat>

"Normally I hate to kill any of the beautiful feces of nature.. but in a survival situation..."

<Nom Nom Nom>

Of course my film crew would have actually hidden a dairy queen blueberry sundae inside a clever coating of faux-grizzly-poo that I can eat and grimace...
Posted by: 6brnorma

Re: Ultralight Knives - 05/30/08 01:30 PM

Quote:
don't expect to pry open an alligators jaw with it. but it works.


Thank goodness....little need for that feature in Alberta <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
Posted by: frenchie

Re: Ultralight Knives - 05/30/08 11:49 PM

http://sports-jeux-loisirs.o-commerces.com/images/29/945B.jpg

I have owned and used a couple of them (loved the tiny one!), abandonned some to greedy security checks in airports... The bigger one is really impressive. Everyone in France, more or less, owns an Opinel someday. Or a Swiss Army knife.
Posted by: johndavid

Re: Ultralight Knives - 05/31/08 09:01 AM

Nothing against Opinel, merely hyperbole to call them "cheap pieces of garbage" and meant in relation to super-duper knife pictured above. Sorry.

When selecting a camping knife, I go for the cheap pieces of garbage like Opinel, partly because I call on it to accomplish so little, also I fear and halfway expect that it may eventually be lost or confiscated by TSA agents.

Come to think of it, I may have inherited my Opinel 15 years ago from girl friend's ex-husband (he left in a rush), so maybe I DO have something against Opinel, slightly, but nothing rational.
Posted by: phat

Re: Ultralight Knives - 05/31/08 12:10 PM

I guess my objection to calling it a "cheap piece of garbage" is that yes it's cheap, but
it's not a "piece of garbage" - it's light, has a good carbon steel blade that holds an edge,
and does everything I need it to. I have even field dressed deer, and a moose with one.

No, I'm not going to be splitting firewood with one, building a log cabin with one, or strapping it to a pole to spear those evil invading commies/drug lords/terrists But I'll leave carrying something so big in the field to those with deep seated cases of rambo-wanna-be penis envy.. (note, if I think I *do* need to do any kind of heavy field work - the little knife still goes with me but then also usually a nice belt axe - which is a heck of a lot more useful in the field than any rambo knife <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />
Posted by: HumanBN

Re: Ultralight Knives - 06/15/08 06:24 PM

I'm trying to find these on line. Can someone give me a link?
Posted by: Earthling

Re: Ultralight Knives - 06/15/08 06:38 PM

just google Breeden knife should get you to the maker.
Posted by: HumanBN

Re: Ultralight Knives - 06/15/08 06:42 PM

I've tried that and I just get a bunch of links for forums.
Posted by: Earthling

Re: Ultralight Knives - 06/15/08 10:01 PM

if he does'nt have his own website then he's a one man shop doing one at a time. pm bear the dog for more info. he's the op of the thread, and apparently knows the maker.
Posted by: CCH

Re: Ultralight Knives - 06/16/08 10:37 AM

How is a fixed blade knife more dangerous than an SAK, particularly one that doesn't lock?

I do carry an SAK Farmer as my main tool and it works great and sometimes a small fixed blade depending on my activities but really don't see the need for anything longer than a 4" blade even when hunting. I know a lot of the guys that are really into knives don't feel good without three or four different blades on them for a day hike but just like backpackers have their interests, that is their "thing" and I don't begrudge them their fun.
Posted by: northernbcr

Re: Ultralight Knives - 06/17/08 06:40 PM

earthling your suggestion that i am a rambo type is just wrong the area that i live in does not ever require a knife for firestarting this post was about a survival knife and my survival knife can be used as many things one of them being a back up for my large size bear spray. for this you need a knife with certain attributes that is all i was trying to say . there isn't many people here that leave home without survival kit bear spray sturdy knife and usually a12 guage loaded with 1.25 oz slugs that is not rambo but my reality
Posted by: Earthling

Re: Ultralight Knives - 06/18/08 10:50 AM

Northernerbc <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" /> Rambo <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" /> No, you are living in an area that carrying that equiptment is reality.

But if you are using a knife as a defensive weapon against bear then I think you need reconsider which knife is better for that purpose. If you need something to fit in a PSK then it can be something sturdier like a Gossman PSK, Becker 'Necker', or BRKT 'Mini NorthStar', or 'Little Creek' (my favorite small knife) <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif" alt="" />

For a belt knife, Canadians wrote the book on them many Moons ago...Lots of varieties out there along the lines of Canadian Camp Knives. There's genereally a 'favored carry' knife in specific regions; it may be due to climate, game frequently dressed, or a number of other factors. Sometimes something comes along that catches your eye, and that's the one for you.

Choosing a knife to carry does not make one Rambo; rather the style of the knife and it's design intent does IMO.
Posted by: Beardog

Re: Ultralight Knives - 07/06/08 02:58 PM

Wow, this thread has grown. First of all Bryan Breeden is a custom maker and doesn't have a website yet. Since I last posted his blades, he has put out three different models. I wlill try to post more here to keep up to date. For those interested in more Breeden info, email me at Bearthedog76"at"Hotmail dot com.

As for me, I am backpacking every week preparing for Peru for 9 days then flying home for one day, then back up Mt. Whitney. for the week. Writting articles for Tactical knives Magazine on some knife use in Peru and Ultralight Knife use in the Sierras.

Earthling, you mentioned the Gossman PSK, do you have one? I am actually writting an article on it for TK Magazine.
For now I will just use this!!!!!!!
Posted by: Beardog

Re: Ultralight Knives - 07/06/08 03:36 PM

Ultralight Hiking/Backpacking Knives


Here are a few light knives from some custom makers. These knives are designed for outdoor utility, with the weight conscious outdoorsmen in mind. I have used these hiking and backpacking in the deserts and mountains of California.

Koyote Knives


Ultralight- Knife 2 ounces, 3 ½ ounces w/leather sheath
Blade Uddeholm 15n20-3 5/8, cutting edge 3 7/16
Overall-7-inches
Thickness-1/16
Super light and super sharp mainly due to the 1/6-inch thin blade and scandi grind. This is a pure cutter and supreme whittler for those that don’t need to baton with your knife.

JK Handmade Knives

Hikers Backup- Knife 3 ½ ounces, 5 ounces w/leather sheath
Blade 01-2 ¾-inch, cutting edge 2 3/8-inch
Overall-5 7/8
Thickness-1/8
Stout and full of cutting power, if this knife was a smurf, he would be Hefty. Lots of knife in a small package.



Hikers Backup 4-inch- Knife 4 ½ ounces, 6 ½ ounces w/leather sheath
Blade 01-4-inch, cutting edge 3 3/4
Overall-8 3/16
Thickness-1/8
This is the heavier of my choices but also the one of the bunch that could easily fill out the Bushcraft all around role; this is mainly due to the full size handle. And larger blade that does well when it comes to baton use.

Breeden knives


PSKK II- Knife 2 1/2 ounces, 4 ounces w/kydex sheath
Blade 01-3 7/8, cutting edge 3 3/4
Overall-7 5/8
Thickness- 3/32
I did an extensive review on this knife where I whittled and used it to baton the 3/32-inch thick blade into large wood. This may be my most used knife around the house along with the JK Nessmuk.
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=547103




Koyote Knives
sietchtabr@gmail.com
http://www.koyotemakesstuff.com

JK Handmade Knives
jkiedaisch@sbcglobal.net
708-479-9328

Bryan Breeden
tacklebreeden@yahoo.com or
402-300-0058
Posted by: sabre11004

Re: Ultralight Knives - 02/17/09 01:54 PM

Obviously the Mora is a much better built knife. It becomes obvious when you compare the handles. (where my hands always are) The handles on the Mora is much more substantial than the other knife.

On the other side of that thought, a knife is something that I refuse to go ultralight on. Just doesn't seem the right thing to do....I just may have to stick it in a cougars butt and I don't need no screw-ups when that comes to pass....Just my thoughts on the subject...sabre11004...


The first step that you take will be one of those that get you there !!!!!!! grin
Posted by: bigfoot2

Re: Ultralight Knives - 02/17/09 02:12 PM

Here we go again! Now Jimshaw will chime in and tell us about his unsharpened scissors and how he skinned one of Phat's "swamp donkeys" with them! thanks sick

BF cool
Posted by: TAH

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/14/09 02:24 PM

I like knives! grin Thought this would be a good first post.

I've been backpacking (mostly in Indiana and Kentucky) since 1989. I've tried many knives over the years. Here's what I've decided is about the best combination...

Victorinox Classic - 1.3 ozs with scissors and a tweezers for splinter and tick removal.


Benchmade 556 Mini Griptilian - 2.5 ozs, compact, and a strong lock. Stainless blade and Zytel handle make it impervious to weather. Perfect size for all cutting, whittling, and food prep chores.


Sawvivor - 9.5 ozs. A little heavy, but cuts firewood like a chainsaw.


This forum is awesome











Posted by: JWE

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/14/09 04:11 PM

Depending on where I'm hiking/camping depends on what I carry as far as blades. The Victoronix Swiss Champ is always in my pocket and some sort of fixed blade is on my belt. Usually the partially serrated K-bar. Both are heavy but I feel prepared to face most situations with these. I carried 5 in the service.
Posted by: TAH

Re: Ultralight Knives - 04/15/09 10:14 AM

I use to carry larger SAKs, but I discovered that the Classic is all I need as long as I have the Benchmade, which makes 95% of all my cuts.

If I carry a fixed blade, I leave the Benchmade at home and take a Frosts Mora 860 Clipper from Sweden. $13.00, 3.5 ozs including sheath, clip on sheath, 12C27 stainless blade, and the most comfortable handle that I have ever held - and I've held a lot of knives. grin



Posted by: Ken the Bear

Re: Ultralight Knives - 02/26/10 02:02 PM

I love my victorinox swiss army spartan. I never leave home without it. I also have a swiss army classic in my med kit.
Posted by: Jim M

Re: Ultralight Knives - 12/14/17 11:59 PM

I think the Spartan is nice simple tool that doesn't weigh too much. However isn't the classic a rather redundant? A light weight pair of scissors at most would do the job. Or, better yet, just take the Classic and forget the Spartan. You have to ask your self how many times have you really needed the extra features. the "just in case" scenario is a slippery slope that can add a lot of unnecessary weight.
Posted by: Talthing

Re: Ultralight Knives - 10/01/18 08:13 PM



Leatherman Juice S2 (4 oz) and worth every bit of it.