In this video, I compare 7 traditional pocketknives, as I look to replace my beloved Endura as my pocketknife for life. Let me know in the comments what your pocketknife for life is.
When I was an apprentice my Journeyman gave me a Case three bladed pocket knife. At the time it was expensive, very expensive. At $21.00 dollars it was too expensive for me. Journeymen where making around $4.15 an hour, us Apprentices well, we were around half that much. When he handed it to me, he said, "Take good care of this knife. The hardest part will be not losing it." I still think of him from time to time. It's been a good knife and has served me well. I've carried it and used it for over fifty years. As I think back, I find it hard to believe that it's been over fifty years. I still carry it today and use it all the time. My knife is like a very good friend who is always there to help.
Nothing beats a good Case knife. Growing up, all of my Dad’s friends and our relatives were farmers and ranchers. Every one of those wise old men (they were old to me at the time) carried a Case knife and kept them sharp. They used them often and would proudly tell you that there was nothing better than a Case.
I've carried a Case Peanut for 11-12 years. Recently lost it and bought another one. I'm going to get one more for a backup. The week or so I went without it, I really missed it. Perfect little pocket knife.
I agree with you. It's hard for me to use any other pocket knife since I've carried the case. It's going on 3 years now. I ended up using the pen blade more than the main blade!
On a trip to Germany when I was 15, my mother bought me a Puma traditional folder, German engineering and precision, 3 inch blade, brass and wood with a single blade. Absolutely exceptional knife and I have carried it all these years. I’m now 57. In 40 years it has never let me down. Great knife.
Been carrying a Queen Peanut for 12 years now, grandpas last gift to me. Don’t know how long he carried it. Just a damn good knife that I can always carry.
We have the Cult of the Peanut on Bladeforums, with so many followers. Been carrying a peanut for 7 years +, and still do. Best pocket knife, ever. It is perfection, in my humble eyes. Enjoy yours.
I love that curved blade with the curved handle connection, makes it like an U, acting as a recurved blade, as shown in the photo bellow, it's perfect for making apple slices, for example. ibb.co/fiZ0uH
Thanks for subscribing, and I returned the favor. Yes, I'm a big fan of the Cult of the Peanut over there. I'm liking the knife more than ever. I don't consider it the beginning and the end of all knives, but for pocket carry, it's pretty close!
I carry the Case Copperlock. I like the lock back feature and with this type you can pull it out anywhere and people don't freak out because you have a knife. Also Case is reasonbly priced so you can have a couple for different tasks.
I want one but with a wharncliffe blade. I dont like the "aladdin sword" look of the copperlock blade. Or if the case trapperlock was lockback instead of linerlock.
@Late to the Game lol. Just hat how much of a belly it has. Kinda feel the same with my sodbuster jr. too round of a belly, needs more of a point. Fixed that with a file though.
What a needy creature you are Joe, LOL ! What a great video explaining the problems of choosing a knife. It is hard to decide what you want the knife for when you will end up using it for everything. I enjoyed this very much!
I didn't get this one up until 4AM here Vinnie, but I thought you'd like it. No cutting trees down and shelter building with any of the knives shown. However, I've cut many trees with my various SAK saw blades, lol!
I'm going to do one on hunting knives and, hopefully, I can get you to do one on your hunting knives. I have a feeling I know what your main hunting knife will be.
Lately, your videos haven't been coming into my video feed, so I missed the last few. Right now, I'm watching the Irish ration pack vid, lol! It's pretty good! I'll be commenting on it later. I missed the SAK shelter too.
@@MrOtterdude I think you’ll like it. I don’t really like carrying a knife IN my pocket but this Single blade trapper doesn’t bother me for some reason. Now I did make a deer leather slip case for it which might have something to do with it. I really like the way the knife feels in my hand and it’s just plain classy.
Barlow for work, trapper for the weekend.👍TWO knives for life ,and maybe another one for the evenings, and another for watching telly, and definitely need one for the beach and another for.......................
@@MrOtterdude Genius ,yes need a few of those too. Think I have an unhealthy addiction😀. Joking aside, I can highly recommend a 2019 case barlow, rough ryder and others are not great, the nail nicks are badly done. Also the Otter Anchor knife is fantastic.I would recommend an Arthur Wright sheepsfoot but the pull is too heavy. Great video by the way.
@@storeboughtbones2 Yes, I've been looking at Barlows. We just had a thread on them on the Leatherwall traditional archery site. I was going to add one to my collection, but I held off, as I also need a canoe.
@@MrOtterdude well , as they say, many a good tune has been played on an old violin. My EDC was found in the gutter of my family home, and still works over 45 years later.
I think maybe you are on the right track. Try a Case Medium Stockman. Choose one with a Spey blade or one with a pen blade. I chose the pen blade version and it rides in the watch pocket of my jeans every day.
Great video! I have the Red Bone peanut, and also the Red Bone Copperlock. Love them both. They are companion pieces to my Victorinox Pioneer X in alox.
Really like the camillus muskrat as a modern traditional folder. I'm also glad to recognise the lies and bs I used to tell and believe about knives I used to carry. My favourite being it's half ounce heavier than the last two ounce knife I carried! Especially when you flush away a couple of pounds every morning!!!😆😂😆 Thanks for the laugh 👍
To be honest, a 3oz knife carries beautifully, if it has a pocket clip. Otherwise, it gets in the way. I've come to the conclusion, my personal weight limit, for a slip joint, is 1.6oz!
I just got a Case Stockman with synthetic red handles as my first traditional pocket knife. I wanted a sheepsfoot blade for opening boxes and bags without having to commit to a single-blade folder, and the spey blade's round shape is not intimidating. Kinda afraid to shell out more for bone handles and such. But I am already loving it, even though I was bummed out by the blade rub marks. And yes, you can never truly be satisfied with just one knife. It is a whole rabbit hole by itself! Cheers!
Too bad about the rub marks, but you'll love the knife! You'll like Delrin. If I had gotten the bone model, it would have cracked, the first time I accidentally dropped my peanut knife on cement. I picked it up, and there was no visible damage.
@@MrOtterdude Ooh! Thanks for sharing. I was scared of picking up those bone or other expensive handles because I thought they would be too fragile. And yeah, I guess blade rub is just part of the package when it comes to Case Stockmans. Not sure if it is the same with a Buck version. I was tempted to return my Case and get the Buck because it was cheaper, but backed out because I might not know the quality. And of course, my Case is red. Having it in my favorite color, like yours, made for a compelling arugment to keep it, scratches and all!
@@DJSerjaySvek They need to do a better job at Case, but it is a nice knife that will be a workhorse for you. My peanut is still going strong! I just added two SAKs I'll be doing videos on. One is the Walker and the other the Angler.
@@MrOtterdude Yes. I hope they do better. The reviews I see on Amazon and CZcams should be a big indicator of that. And good luck with your SAK reviews! They don't sell those models in my country so this will be interesting.
I have a lot of knives , but my favorite pocket knife is a Case fat stag peanut. Perfect half stops , perfect fit and finish. But I also carry Case medium stockman knives. I prefer them because they have rounded bolsters. They ride much better in your pocket. To me , the medium stockman is a perfect squirrel hunters knife. One of the reasons I own a lot of Case knives is because I like to support an American company. Proudly made in the 🇺🇸.
A Case medium stockman is the pocket knife I was thinking of moving into my pocket, to replace the peanut. It seems to be perfect! However, right now, I'm staying with the peanut in town and the Victorinox Walker when exploring in the woods. I need a saw blade in the woods.
Always got along with the Victorinox Pioneer never found the Alox grips slippy, enjoyed the Cadet and the Bantam too over the years. The Case Peanut is just a bit small.
Mine is a buck rancher. I've had it for 38 years. My dad carried slim case 2 blade knives and went through one every few years due to sharpening. We used knives daily for ranch work. I've collected knives for years, my overall favorite is the large case double blade trapper style; well made.
I too like the large case Trapper. I think it would be a great work knife. My only Buck folder is the 110. If you want maximum blade life, sharpen infrequently with stones or a sharpener but steel them often. I only use a steel on mine.
It was purchased in May of 1998. It's still a great carry knife, due to how flat it lays up against the inside of the pocket, and it is heavier and sits much more securely than the Delica. The old Delicas were easy to lose.
Knife for life? If worn on my bent it’s the Buck 110. Pocket carry? The Old Timer Stockman. My only Case is beautiful & it definitely cost but it’s a tad too tiny. Wilderness survival? The Victorinox Ranger SAK.
I like all of your choices! However, if I had to wear one on my belt, I'd forget the 110 and carry the Vanguard. It would also work for wilderness survival. They weigh about the same.
@@MrOtterdude Cool, it also has a good weight, heavy enough that you won't forget it is there but light enough that you won't mind. It's one of the BUCK models made in China but it is well made. It has that BUCK steel tempering, the blades are sharp. A very solid little pocket knife. About $30 and worth it. Mine is jigged bone, grab it if you can find one, most are Rosewood which is fine. As far as a kinfe for life..I like so many so for me it is part of my knife rotation. I sometimes use it for apples so I lube it with coconut oil.
@@porkfat8109 I'll look at it. I have to agree it's about impossible to carry one knife for life. Not only do you need different knives for different tasks, but life would be boring with the same old knife, day after day, lol!
Ha ha great story and I can definitely say I have the bug worse then you! I have probably 300 or more knives currently and probably had thousands over the years. I really like the peanut it's a great deep carry or coin pocket knife. You may want to look into the case medium Jack or Texas jack. The medium Jack is pretty much a beefed up peanut. Just overall a little bigger. Currently I tend to prefer a stockman pattern I really like having 3 blades and find myself using the clip point for food, sheepsfoot for utility. And spey for a sharp backup or peeler. I currently have a case yellow handle medium stockman in my pocket with CV steel. #3318. At around 3.5 inches it really is the perfect all around comfy carry knife. Plus the yellow handles are a true classic work knife. My grandfather carried a yellow handled Slimline trapper years ago that I still have. Thanks for sharing your story! -Kevin
You sure do have the bug worse than I have it, lol! I'm your 1,550th subscriber, and thanks for subscribing to my channel! My hard drive is on the way out, so when I get it replaced, I'll be working on my latest video, long overdue, on making primitive arrows. I hope to do some improved knife videos too. Right now, I'm looking at your suggestions and considering a medium Case Stockman for my next pocket knife for life. I like the spey blade but am also looking at the Stockman with punch.
I own a Case medium stockman, in stag handles, and I like it a lot, I enjoy my Buck 301 more, been carrying it for probably 5-6 years now. As far as you getting bit while closing the knife while distracted, that's no fault of the knife, that's definitely your fault, and unfair to criticize the knife for.
@@MrOtterdude The 301 has very soft springs, and the spey blade can be proud of the scales after a few years of sharpening, but it fits my hands like a glove and I would be lost without it
@@johnhildenbrand2642 After a few decades of sharpening, the spey blade and any other blade, on any knife, should look like new. There's no reason to sharpen them down! You must start using a steel! Never use a stone on a knife blade, unless you are re-profiling. Use a steel and preserve razor sharp blades!
@@MrOtterdude Steels still remove material, and the design on the 301 leaves very little wiggle room on the spey blade, a steel may take longer to get there, but sooner or later given enough time/use, it will become a problem
@@johnhildenbrand2642 This is a myth I'm going to discuss in a CZcams video later this summer. I'm on a special mission to save your knives and all knives into the future! Now, a grooved steel does remove a tiny amount of steel, but so tiny it isn't noticeable.
You make some good points. Settled on the Peanut this year, too, after carrying stockmans all my life and a few SAKs. Peanut fits in my jeans watch pocket for all my cutting, a 2 layer SAK in same pocket on a pocket clip for the tools. If you don't mind a little longer configuration, the Texas Jack looks interesting. Like a larger Peanut, bone handle. The Oldtimer 340T USA made was a great middle ground. I have 2 I carry occasionally. 3 5/16" long, just fits in watch pocket still. Can still be found on some sites. I put a patina on my blades and they don't rust. But, as you said, if you like knives it's tough to stick with one.
All the knives you mention are great candidates for a pocket knife for life! It depends on tastes and on how much/what type of cutting you do. If I lived in a rural setting, I'd probably go with a SAK Farmer or something bigger. I do so much light cutting, I don't need a saw or larger blade most of the time. I'll be honest and say I did not believe the Case Peanut would be good enough. However, it's still in my pocket, and I like it more than ever, lol!
MrOtterdude Ditto, I wondered what the fuss about such a small knife. Then we realize we spend most of our time carrying it, and only occasionally have to cut something like a package, a thread, a zip tie, a quill. Then realize all it takes is small knife that doesn't fill the pocket. If I were a farmer I'd probably carry a large stockman or a sodbuster.
@@Tilbily Agreed. When I deer hunt, I have a few hunting knives in my pack. When I need a saw, I grab my SAK Hiker or Hunter XT. When I anticipate needing a knife, I make sure I have the one I want, but always in my pocket needs to be small and high quality.
Drea Jeffries I own more than know to do with and collection slowly growing. Can help myself!! Love a nice polished case knife! I see one I start counting my wallet! Too much info!! Keep collecting them you won’t be sorry!!
If you don’t like the Solo, I’d be happy to buy it off you! I love the Solo. I’ve been using a K55K for a long time now but the folded sheet metal has sharp edges and puts holes in my pockets. Plus the blade is just about an inch too long.
I plan to give the Solo another chance, as inattention caused it to bite me. My Case peanut got me good, after having it in my pocket for 1.5 years. Cause was inattention when closing the blade.
@@MrOtterdude I carry the solo and after watching your video I had to get it out and try it a few times. I tried to switch to a SAK tinker small with more functions but this alox keeps finding it's way back into my pocket for EDC. I truly only really use a blade and the fit and finish of the solo is perfect. Plus I'm a huge fan of the steel. It works great for me.
I like carrying a Case pocket knife and have one pocket knife, and one fixed blade hunter from their company. I don't use either of them as they are in my collection and have to get another one to hopefully carry around with me. I have many knives from several companies, but Case is my favorite.
I like them too! I too have the one pocketknife and one fixed blade hunter from Case. I have the Slab Side Hunter. You might want to consider their medium stockman with punch. I like it because it has clip point and sheepsfoot blades and the leather punch. On the other hand, the stockman with 3 sharpened blades might be more useful.
@@semco72057 Ok. You'e all set, lol! Got me beat! A guy from Texas gifted me a Canadian Belt Knife he made from 1095 carbon steel. He put my initials on the blade and sheath, but it's still not a Case! I bet you have a Buck with your name on it too?
I have a MOP Case Russlock which to me is the ultimate everyday carry pocketknife because it's beautiful, it opens with one hand but it's still traditional and it's made in USA.
I always though the Russlock would be a nice knife to own, but I held off due to the "tail" one hand opener sticking out. I thought it might catch in my pocket or wear a hole in it.
You clearly know knives! Yeah, it's hard to beat a peanut. I used to think the stockman was the ultimate, but I've come to prefer the smaller jacks, or even the single blade patterns such as the small cigar jack (out of production for 40 years from Case), the mini trapper (especially the Wharncliffe version), the swayback jack and swayback gent, the Buck 500 series, the slimline trapper, the peanut, etc. Or, if you still want to go with the stockman but stay small (but not too small), the Case 6344. Remember: "You can never be too thin or too rich, or have too many knives." ;-)
I believe you'd find either the Case 4 blade medium congress pocket knife or the 4 blade schrade old timer workmate pocket knife to be what you're looking for. -I've owned and carried numerous folding knives. Kept a made in USA schrade old timer trailblazer nearly thirty six years that saved my life twice before gifting it to my best Army brother. It was my favorite pocket knife ever.
Interesting video! Probably you will become a knife-guy and that's only the beginning :) If you are going to try a Case Stockman please have in mind: the "Medium Stockman", which I think is an ideal size for edc, is available in many different configurations (handle materials and blade types/variants, but not every model is available in both steels) AND: sizes ! (all called "Medium Stockman"), I think there are at least 4 slightly different sizes.
My dad gave me a medium stockman for highschool graduation. Over the years i lost it and just recently bought another. Only thing is i remember my old one being slab sided and kinda chunky, the new one i have is slender and the handels are rounded instead of being flat slabs of delrin. Starting to think i originally had a large stockman instead of a medium?
I enjoyed the video very much and I can definitely relate. I see you´ve got plenty of recommendadtions, so here´s mine too: I started my knife journey with standard-size (91mm) 3-layer Victorinox Camper. I have always admired and enjoyed its utility. Problem is that it is uncomfortable for me to carry in the pocket as it wants to lay across on the bottom of my pocket. I dismissed it, went through modern pocketknives stage, realized I do not like pocketclips and wibe they have, came back to traditionals. Discovered Opinel No.06 and I loved it. It is the best pocket knife for me period. I actualy like its weight/bulkiness combination as bulk makes my pocket grip on it and low weight prevents it to slide to horizontal position. Cuts like a lightsaber. Problem is that it lacks functionality I need. Back to Victorinoxes I went and for 2-3 months I noted all the tools I used or needed to use. After that I evaluated most needed implements and tryied to fit most of them into smallest possible package. I came up with Victorinox Sportsman which is slightly smaller (85mm). And behold, theory met practice. I have been carying it for over a year and its just perfect. Blade just long enough for my cutting tasks, knife small enough to fit confortably to 5th pocket (no lying across bottom of my pocket) and it has just utility I need. Astonishing price/quality ratio too. Opinel is still 100x better knife, but Sportsman is better tool. Yes, boredom settles over me from time to time and I might slip some fancy GEC to other pocket too, but Sportsman holds its place in my 5th pocket. I cannot think to leave it behind. A true "companion for life" as they say at Victorinox. I suggest you give it a try when you´re finished with peanut, or Vic Tourist (mini Spartan) if you need more blades or say small Tinker for phillips screwdriver and better ergos. Just some 2-layer 85mm Victorinox that suits your needs. And moreover, they are all RED!
Hard drive problems have kept me out of CZcams, so I'm thrilled to finally get back in! I agree with you on the usefulness of SAKs. I like my Hiker! Believe or not, the saw is my most used blade! We're gonna change out my iMac HD, this weekend, and I hope to be back to responding, right away, and also put up a new video. It'll be on primitive arrow making.
I’m right there with ya, Brother. I love the Peanut. Case Medium Stockman is wonderful, too. Have you tried Great Eastern Cutlery? Superb craftsmanship, you can get the 1095 blades insanely sharp, and they have a wonderfully nostalgic feel to them.
Very interesting story. You were almost “there” with the SAK Alinox Solo. Had you just opted for a 2 or even 3 blade model w/ a few extra goodies. But yes that handle/scales profile is way too thin. Never have owned an Opinel. I’d like to and you just saved me from starting lower than the six. Thank you
My current favorite knife is my Opinel #8 but I am also rather fond of my Case peanut and if I were to wear pants with smaller pockets my preferences could easily reverse.
There's 2 things every American male needs to have at some point in their life. One is a good pocketknife. The other is a cap that has a Cat Diesel Power emblem. Until you have those you ain't crap. Lol 🍺😎👍 Still have my Cat cap too.
Watched this video again today and went thru my knife collection. I keep them in an old doctor bag. I can't believe I'd forgotten about one. My first lock back knife. A Schrade LB7 still in the original leather sheath. I bought that thing in 1981. It's identical to the Buck 110 but I don't think it was as popular. About 10 yrs ago I put it away for good because I didn't want anything to happen to it and I got a new Buck 110 to replace it but I shouldn't have. I don't hunt, fish, or go camping so I really don't have need of one that big, I just wanted it. Carry it once in a while but not very often. Too big.
I've been thinking about adding a Damascus steel knife to my collection. I've always liked the way the blades look. If I can find one that's not too big. I'd like to find one the size of a large slip joint at most. Something that will fit in my pocket comfortably. Are Damascus blades hard to maintain? Do they rust easily?
@@johnnypetty7931 Back around 76', my mom gave my brother John an LB7 for Christmas. He had asked for a Buck 110. He was disappointed. He still has that knife and developed an appreciation for it, though he doesn't hunt.
IMHO, an everyday carry pocket knife...to be used day in & day out...must have a locking blade for safety. I know all the arguements against that statement, but if we can accept anything from our modern knife industry, let it be a locking main blade. The traditionalists can look at copperlocks or tribals, they look good and still lock. Even trappers are available with a locking blade.
@@Lumpy_Peter I honour your loyalty to slip joint knives, as I too have many & love the look & simplicity of a slip joint. But as I write this I'm playing with my Case Tribal lock & my Case Copperlock mini and honestly I see no reason to carry a slip joint when such knives as I just listed exist are being made by a master traditional/sliplock knifemaker (Case). To each his own, but I would never give my grandchildren a slip joint...because I HAVE been cut by a blade closing on my fingers, and do not want to be the person that gives them a knife that is inherently dangerous to use. But if you, after many years of experience, feel completely safe in using your slip joints, then by all means please go ahead. Many are beautiful knives, but for me they are not users considering the many locking options available today.
Been off CZcams for a week due to HD trouble with my iMac. I like both slip joints and locking blades. I will admit, I'm wearing a bandaid on the tip of my index finger. After over 1.5 years of daily carry, my Case Peanut finally closed on my finger, lol! I had it like a razor and it cut me bad! I got careless, wasn't looking at the knife, and I closed it by pressing it against my thigh, while I worked on a task with my other hand. I can't blame the knife, because the cut was due to carelessness. @@blueeyeswhitedragon9839
@@MrOtterdude I find case peanut Blade shape to be very odd. And if you like small Blade, Victorinox Electrician have a fantastic sheepsfoot Blade which is great for box cutter and opening packages. But to each is their own.
Try Sod Buster Jr., also Rough Rider knives are decently made and do not cost a lot. They have some decent stockman models you might want to consider. I myself recently picked up a small Imperial Sod buster with yellow synthetic handles for $8 and I love it. I have been carrying it more than my other more expensive knives.
Only 7? I think I'm on my 115th knife and still haven't found the perfect one for life. I've own a similar Case and they are great. Stockman's are one of the most useful patterns, but I prefer the Congress pattern over it.
The Victorinox Harvester is likely my keeper. It is discontinued but can still be found. The Harvester is an Alox 3 layer modified Farmer. Standard blade with AWL on opposite side. A saw, the bottle opener and the can opener is replaced with the pruner, hawkbill, blade that is great for draw cuts. If the would make this as a four layer and add scissors would be perfect for me. The Victorinox Field Master has the scissors but has a smaller standard blade instead of pruner. Again swap that small blade for a pruner would cover my daily cutting tasks.... Large blade, pruner, awl, scissors, saw with thickness to increase grip area. Lets face it my knife for life is a multi tool. The retired Leatherman KF4 (yellow handle), another multi tool is also almost perfect with multiple blades for different tasks.
You know, for the longest time I struggled to find a knife for life. I carried just about every type of knife under the sun from your traditional folders to the crappy tacticool mall ninja assisted stilettos. The nearest I came to a favorite pocket knife for life was probably my Victorinox Pioneer Alox or TL-29. Now I set after more than a decade of trying different knives and never finding the one that was quite right for me. My most recent endeavors included the Mercator K55K and a Colonial TL-29, neither of which passed muster. The Colonial came as dull as a mall Kiosk Katana and the Mercator had was the perfect thickness, weight, and even size but it hurt to use due to the rivets used on the handles creating several hot spots in your hand. Two underdogs in my recent knife batch surprised me thought. The Victorinox Solo Alox shown in this video which I thought was fantastic but lacked the lanyard ring I like on victorinox knives so they don't get lost in the pocket, something I really worry about since the Solo is so light. The true winner though and I think my pocket knife for life is surprisingly the Kershaw Culpepper. A large single blade Barlow made in china, it fits my hand well. It is slick, smooth, light, and came razor sharp. I'm not worried about losing it in my pocket as it is light enough to carry but you always know where it is. Finally, it is the best affordable knife I've ever owned. I got it on sale for $20 and have since ordered 5 more. Not for gifts or collecting. Simply because I love the knife so much I carry it every day and when I wear it out I want a spare and enough to last me a lifetime should they decide to discontinue the line
I checked it out and can see why you like it. It's a nice knife! That 3 inch blade can handle any tasks expected of a pocketknife! I really like the 3 blade version too!
Awesome video & your views are explained very well.👍🏼👌🏼 But let’s all be honest here. There’s way way way to many beautiful pocket knives out in the world for us to settle for just one! Maybe have a pocket knife for each day of the week FOR LIFE!😄
I carry an L.T. Wright Patriot every day in my pocket. Nothing like a fixed blade; no moving parts or tolerances, with materials and craftsmanship for lesser price than an equivalent folder.
@@MrOtterdude I'm really considering that one too but I want to wait until I can find a sheepsfoot version. The GEC factory is shut down right now because of Covid 19. Whats for sale online right now is all thats available until they open up shop again.
You need to pay attention when you close your knives. Get yourself a Case Med. Stockman 63087. Just a little larger than the Peanut and sits well in your pocket.
The Victorinox solo has been nothing but useful and fun for me. If you say your first Victorinox in the lineup is too long for the blade, then how come the Solo is too thin lol, if it were thicker it would just be bigger and heavier for no reason. As it stands it is very light and in one year of everyday use it has never bit me once. I mean there is a safe way of folding a slipjoint and it is failsafe. Light weight and small size come with compromises but just the look of it is worth it imo 😍
Well, if it wasn't so slippery it's ready to slide out of your pocket and be lost forever, I'd say its's the pocketknife for life for you! It's inferior to the Case Peanut, in my opinion.
I guess we have to factor in price then. In Europe I can get the Alox for 16 Euros while a Case would cost me 2.5-4 times as much. That seals the deal for me but you know how it goes, liking knives is like liking women, you soon get bored and want to move on to something else, not necessarily better, just different. And since I don't have to marry my knife for life I'd say I don't see myself using just one for life wink wink
@@christosswc LOL! Excellent analogy! I really do agree the Solo is a great knife However, it has a huge fault. It's so nice looking, like a fine woman, I don't want to wear away the paint on the shield! That's why I keep it in the box.
What happened to the locking ring on the small Opinal? It should have one like the larger one. The Case Peanut looks like red bone. I don't think it's delrin. You sure?
Only size 6 and up have the lock-ring on Opinels, though they all need one. Size 5, with a lock, would be a great pocket knife! It's Delrin, 100% sure! I could have gotten red bone for a few dollars more, and it's nicer looking, but the Delrin, with this shield, is rare. Also, for over 70 years, Delrin has proven to be the most durable grip material.
A year later but still relevant:- I prefer a Boy Scout style camp knife. The Swiss Army Soldier, Pioneer and Farmer are all acceptable, but I like something more traditional. Boker makes a couple, Case & Queen used to make this camper pattern. Camillus made the U.S. army version & Sheffield makes a few versions for the British military. But what I'm looking for is scout knife with a micarta or packwood scales. I can't get by without a screw driver/can opener/cap lifter...just my thing right now. (I use the can opener to grab the side bail on my coffee pot when camping. The top bail I can grab with my hand, maybe wearing gloves, but I need something to help tip the pot to pour the camp coffee).
@@MrOtterdude :- when I was a kid (60 years ago) I had three or more hobo/camp knives, two of which separated into fork, knife & spoon. Now there just seems to be one or two manufacturers. But as to your quest...I believe tha A. G. Russell has a nice one in his catalog. His knife is called the "Boxcar Jack" a real beauty, and they also carry the Case Hobo. The Boxcar Jack separates into it's various components. Both have that "traditional" look.
@@MrOtterdude :- For my grandson, I bought him a genuine Boy Scouts of America "camp style" folder by Victorinox. Official Crest and all. A pretty decent knife for a first pocket knife.
That being the case, your pocket knife should be a bit larger and pointy and still stay out of the way of things in your pocket. The Spyderco Endura is what I use. My old Endura is also only 2.9 oz.
Stockman is used by most companies to describe a variety of three- bladed knives, the most common being what you describe. However, it is also used to describe knives where one blade is a punch or a pen blade.
Sorry for the delayed response. Hard drive problems with my iMac. Changing the HD this weekend. Yes, the early Spyderco knives, at least the Delica and Endura, had molded clips. It's great on my Endura, but my brother lost his Delica and blamed the clip.
You are sacrificing so much by choosing any of those knives. If you want a lightweight, small knife that has a great blade and is actually useful I recommend either the Mini Bugout in CF elite, or the Mini Gtiptilian. These are lightweight knives that feel good in the hand and are actually useful. You will love them both!
When I was an apprentice my Journeyman gave me a Case three bladed pocket knife. At the time it was expensive, very expensive. At $21.00 dollars it was too expensive for me. Journeymen where making around $4.15 an hour, us Apprentices well, we were around half that much. When he handed it to me, he said, "Take good care of this knife. The hardest part will be not losing it." I still think of him from time to time. It's been a good knife and has served me well. I've carried it and used it for over fifty years. As I think back, I find it hard to believe that it's been over fifty years. I still carry it today and use it all the time. My knife is like a very good friend who is always there to help.
That's a great story! Yes, your knife is like an old friend!
Its wee stories like this that make me scroll through CZcams i just find them so interesting thanks for sharing Sir :)
Nothing beats a good Case knife. Growing up, all of my Dad’s friends and our relatives were farmers and ranchers. Every one of those wise old men (they were old to me at the time) carried a Case knife and kept them sharp. They used them often and would proudly tell you that there was nothing better than a Case.
I've carried a Case Peanut for 11-12 years. Recently lost it and bought another one. I'm going to get one more for a backup. The week or so I went without it, I really missed it. Perfect little pocket knife.
I agree with you. It's hard for me to use any other pocket knife since I've carried the case. It's going on 3 years now. I ended up using the pen blade more than the main blade!
On a trip to Germany when I was 15, my mother bought me a Puma traditional folder, German engineering and precision, 3 inch blade, brass and wood with a single blade. Absolutely exceptional knife and I have carried it all these years. I’m now 57. In 40 years it has never let me down. Great knife.
I've never heard a bad word about Puma knives!
All you need is a Barlow. My uncle gave me mine when I was 10 I am 75 and still carry it.
Yep. My dad carried a Barlow for decades!
I carry an old timer 34ot
Been carrying a Queen Peanut for 12 years now, grandpas last gift to me. Don’t know how long he carried it. Just a damn good knife that I can always carry.
Nice! Don't ever lose it!
We have the Cult of the Peanut on Bladeforums, with so many followers. Been carrying a peanut for 7 years +, and still do. Best pocket knife, ever. It is perfection, in my humble eyes. Enjoy yours.
I love that curved blade with the curved handle connection, makes it like an U, acting as a recurved blade, as shown in the photo bellow, it's perfect for making apple slices, for example. ibb.co/fiZ0uH
Thanks for subscribing, and I returned the favor. Yes, I'm a big fan of the Cult of the Peanut over there. I'm liking the knife more than ever. I don't consider it the beginning and the end of all knives, but for pocket carry, it's pretty close!
I carry the Case Copperlock. I like the lock back feature and with this type you can pull it out anywhere and people don't freak out because you have a knife. Also Case is reasonbly priced so you can have a couple for different tasks.
It is a beautiful knife!
I want one but with a wharncliffe blade. I dont like the "aladdin sword" look of the copperlock blade. Or if the case trapperlock was lockback instead of linerlock.
Nothing compares to a case. Most collected knife in the world.
@Late to the Game lol. Just hat how much of a belly it has. Kinda feel the same with my sodbuster jr. too round of a belly, needs more of a point. Fixed that with a file though.
Love this video! Been on this quest for 30 years!
Yes, it seems to be never ending!
If you want a cross between the stockman and the peanut try the Case Sowbelly. It's my personal favorite pattern.
The sowbelly is really a neat knife. I might well go in that direction.
I think your looking for the medium stockman with pen blade. Used to own one and it was awesome
Yes, I'm thinking about. Medium stockman with pen blade and maybe the punch.
My Boker Barlow (gold series) could be my knife for life.
Yay Barlow.
Hard to go wrong with a case medium stockman.
I think you're right.
I have a Ka-bar #1047, identical too your case.....great little knife
Case medium stockman for life
That's probably the best!
"... So, here are seven more knives."
😂That's my story too, bruv
I carry a Case xx(tested xx) on the side,bone 2 blades hunter.great knife
I’m a fan of the peanut as well. Solid knife, really all you need for most tasks.
What a needy creature you are Joe, LOL ! What a great video explaining the problems of choosing a knife. It is hard to decide what you want the knife for when you will end up using it for everything. I enjoyed this very much!
I didn't get this one up until 4AM here Vinnie, but I thought you'd like it. No cutting trees down and shelter building with any of the knives shown. However, I've cut many trees with my various SAK saw blades, lol!
No, you hit the nail on the head with this one
I'm going to do one on hunting knives and, hopefully, I can get you to do one on your hunting knives. I have a feeling I know what your main hunting knife will be.
Lately, your videos haven't been coming into my video feed, so I missed the last few. Right now, I'm watching the Irish ration pack vid, lol! It's pretty good! I'll be commenting on it later. I missed the SAK shelter too.
Arrrgh! This cannot be. You must fix this post haste!
Buy a Victorinox Climber. All the tools you need for Urban EDC use and even a scissors and tweezers. Nice video 👍
I agree the Climber is an impressive knife!
Or a victorinox compact..then you get a pen too
Case slimline trapper is amazing
I have a Case “Slimline Trapper” I really like. You’re right you need it to be something you will and want to use as well as it to be classy.
The slimline trapper is nice! I've been thinking of getting one or the medium stockman.
@@MrOtterdude
I think you’ll like it. I don’t really like carrying a knife IN my pocket but this Single blade trapper doesn’t bother me for some reason. Now I did make a deer leather slip case for it which might have something to do with it. I really like the way the knife feels in my hand and it’s just plain classy.
@@danielkleinheksel8853 Yes, the classic pocket knives have that class lacking in more modern designs.
Nice video, enjoyed hearing your logic.
Barlow for work, trapper for the weekend.👍TWO knives for life ,and maybe another one for the evenings, and another for watching telly, and definitely need one for the beach and another for.......................
How about a SAK? Something like the Farmer or Hiker will handle work, weekends, tv watching and so forth.
@@MrOtterdude Genius ,yes need a few of those too.
Think I have an unhealthy addiction😀.
Joking aside, I can highly recommend a 2019 case barlow, rough ryder and others are not great, the nail nicks are badly done.
Also the Otter Anchor knife is fantastic.I would recommend an Arthur Wright sheepsfoot but the pull is too heavy.
Great video by the way.
@@storeboughtbones2 Yes, I've been looking at Barlows. We just had a thread on them on the Leatherwall traditional archery site. I was going to add one to my collection, but I held off, as I also need a canoe.
The knife you found by the river is YOUR knife!
God gave it to you for you to find.
LOL! I wish God would have given me something with more class, lol! That old piece of junk has good steel! It works well trimming fat off of venison.
@@MrOtterdude well , as they say, many a good tune has been played on an old violin.
My EDC was found in the gutter of my family home, and still works over 45 years later.
Yep. A little patina doesn't hurt a knife, it enhances it! @@mikesmith8187
I think maybe you are on the right track. Try a Case Medium Stockman. Choose one with a Spey blade or one with a pen blade. I chose the pen blade version and it rides in the watch pocket of my jeans every day.
Yep. I'm going to try one. I too am thinking pen blade, as I use it a lot.
I carry a Col. Littleton my wife gave to me. I keep it sharp.
I find the pen blade my most-used blade. If I could find a half Congress with a pen blade and a Wharncliffe blade, I'd be a happy camper!
Yes! I use mine more than the main blade.
Great video! I have the Red Bone peanut, and also the Red Bone Copperlock. Love them both. They are companion pieces to my Victorinox Pioneer X in alox.
You have all bases well covered!
I see mention of the Pioneer X in Alox and I like it. Awesome Swiss Army Knife.
Love this video! Boy can I relate
I think I'll be looking for a pocket knife for life until the day I die, lol!
MrOtterdude me too... And having fun doing it 👍
Really like the camillus muskrat as a modern traditional folder.
I'm also glad to recognise the lies and bs I used to tell and believe about knives I used to carry. My favourite being it's half ounce heavier than the last two ounce knife I carried! Especially when you flush away a couple of pounds every morning!!!😆😂😆 Thanks for the laugh 👍
To be honest, a 3oz knife carries beautifully, if it has a pocket clip. Otherwise, it gets in the way. I've come to the conclusion, my personal weight limit, for a slip joint, is 1.6oz!
I just got a Case Stockman with synthetic red handles as my first traditional pocket knife. I wanted a sheepsfoot blade for opening boxes and bags without having to commit to a single-blade folder, and the spey blade's round shape is not intimidating.
Kinda afraid to shell out more for bone handles and such. But I am already loving it, even though I was bummed out by the blade rub marks.
And yes, you can never truly be satisfied with just one knife. It is a whole rabbit hole by itself! Cheers!
Too bad about the rub marks, but you'll love the knife! You'll like Delrin. If I had gotten the bone model, it would have cracked, the first time I accidentally dropped my peanut knife on cement. I picked it up, and there was no visible damage.
@@MrOtterdude Ooh! Thanks for sharing. I was scared of picking up those bone or other expensive handles because I thought they would be too fragile.
And yeah, I guess blade rub is just part of the package when it comes to Case Stockmans. Not sure if it is the same with a Buck version. I was tempted to return my Case and get the Buck because it was cheaper, but backed out because I might not know the quality.
And of course, my Case is red. Having it in my favorite color, like yours, made for a compelling arugment to keep it, scratches and all!
@@DJSerjaySvek They need to do a better job at Case, but it is a nice knife that will be a workhorse for you. My peanut is still going strong! I just added two SAKs I'll be doing videos on. One is the Walker and the other the Angler.
@@MrOtterdude Yes. I hope they do better. The reviews I see on Amazon and CZcams should be a big indicator of that.
And good luck with your SAK reviews! They don't sell those models in my country so this will be interesting.
@@DJSerjaySvek I'm hoping to get three videos up in April. I'm also doing one on primitive arrow shaft making.
Bro, you carried that opinel for 4 years determining it wasn’t the one!?!?
Remarkable
Well, I gave it a fair try, lol!
I carry a case slimline trapper, I love it
I have a lot of knives , but my favorite pocket knife is a Case fat stag peanut. Perfect half stops , perfect fit and finish. But I also carry Case medium stockman knives. I prefer them because they have rounded bolsters. They ride much better in your pocket. To me , the medium stockman is a perfect squirrel hunters knife. One of the reasons I own a lot of Case knives is because I like to support an American company. Proudly made in the 🇺🇸.
A Case medium stockman is the pocket knife I was thinking of moving into my pocket, to replace the peanut. It seems to be perfect! However, right now, I'm staying with the peanut in town and the Victorinox Walker when exploring in the woods. I need a saw blade in the woods.
@@MrOtterdude I understand perfectly. I also carry an old SAK Alox Farmer. It has a saw.
And yes it's hard to beat a Case Peanut.
@@bruce-qm5fl You have good taste in knives! The Farmer is my favorite SAK that I don't have!
Always got along with the Victorinox Pioneer never found the Alox grips slippy, enjoyed the Cadet and the Bantam too over the years. The Case Peanut is just a bit small.
The Case peanut will "grow" on you though!
Very interesting!
Mine is a buck rancher. I've had it for 38 years. My dad carried slim case 2 blade knives and went through one every few years due to sharpening. We used knives daily for ranch work. I've collected knives for years, my overall favorite is the large case double blade trapper style; well made.
I too like the large case Trapper. I think it would be a great work knife. My only Buck folder is the 110. If you want maximum blade life, sharpen infrequently with stones or a sharpener but steel them often. I only use a steel on mine.
Dang that’s a vintage endura!
It was purchased in May of 1998. It's still a great carry knife, due to how flat it lays up against the inside of the pocket, and it is heavier and sits much more securely than the Delica. The old Delicas were easy to lose.
Knife for life? If worn on my bent it’s the Buck 110. Pocket carry? The Old Timer Stockman. My only Case is beautiful & it definitely cost but it’s a tad too tiny. Wilderness survival? The Victorinox Ranger SAK.
I like all of your choices! However, if I had to wear one on my belt, I'd forget the 110 and carry the Vanguard. It would also work for wilderness survival. They weigh about the same.
The Spyderco PM2 is my desert island folding knife. I just got back into slip-joints, and the GEC/Tidioute #93 “ram’s foot” is amazing.
I'll check out the #93. I'm with you on the Spyderco.
Give the BUCK Canoe a try. When closed all edges are smooth, rides good in the pocket. One large blade, one small.
I've been looking at Bucks. I use the 110. I'll check out the canoe.
@@MrOtterdude Cool, it also has a good weight, heavy enough that you won't forget it is there but light enough that you won't mind. It's one of the BUCK models made in China but it is well made. It has that BUCK steel tempering, the blades are sharp. A very solid little pocket knife. About $30 and worth it. Mine is jigged bone, grab it if you can find one, most are Rosewood which is fine. As far as a kinfe for life..I like so many so for me it is part of my knife rotation. I sometimes use it for apples so I lube it with coconut oil.
@@porkfat8109 I'll look at it. I have to agree it's about impossible to carry one knife for life. Not only do you need different knives for different tasks, but life would be boring with the same old knife, day after day, lol!
You need to try a 2 blade Barlow!
Ha ha great story and I can definitely say I have the bug worse then you! I have probably 300 or more knives currently and probably had thousands over the years. I really like the peanut it's a great deep carry or coin pocket knife. You may want to look into the case medium Jack or Texas jack. The medium Jack is pretty much a beefed up peanut. Just overall a little bigger. Currently I tend to prefer a stockman pattern I really like having 3 blades and find myself using the clip point for food, sheepsfoot for utility. And spey for a sharp backup or peeler. I currently have a case yellow handle medium stockman in my pocket with CV steel. #3318. At around 3.5 inches it really is the perfect all around comfy carry knife. Plus the yellow handles are a true classic work knife. My grandfather carried a yellow handled Slimline trapper years ago that I still have. Thanks for sharing your story! -Kevin
You sure do have the bug worse than I have it, lol! I'm your 1,550th subscriber, and thanks for subscribing to my channel! My hard drive is on the way out, so when I get it replaced, I'll be working on my latest video, long overdue, on making primitive arrows. I hope to do some improved knife videos too. Right now, I'm looking at your suggestions and considering a medium Case Stockman for my next pocket knife for life. I like the spey blade but am also looking at the Stockman with punch.
@@MrOtterdude look forward to watching your new videos!
-Kevin
I own a Case medium stockman, in stag handles, and I like it a lot, I enjoy my Buck 301 more, been carrying it for probably 5-6 years now. As far as you getting bit while closing the knife while distracted, that's no fault of the knife, that's definitely your fault, and unfair to criticize the knife for.
I'm going to add a 301 to my collection. Yep, I should have taken more care in closing the poorly designed thing!
@@MrOtterdude The 301 has very soft springs, and the spey blade can be proud of the scales after a few years of sharpening, but it fits my hands like a glove and I would be lost without it
@@johnhildenbrand2642 After a few decades of sharpening, the spey blade and any other blade, on any knife, should look like new. There's no reason to sharpen them down! You must start using a steel! Never use a stone on a knife blade, unless you are re-profiling. Use a steel and preserve razor sharp blades!
@@MrOtterdude Steels still remove material, and the design on the 301 leaves very little wiggle room on the spey blade, a steel may take longer to get there, but sooner or later given enough time/use, it will become a problem
@@johnhildenbrand2642 This is a myth I'm going to discuss in a CZcams video later this summer. I'm on a special mission to save your knives and all knives into the future! Now, a grooved steel does remove a tiny amount of steel, but so tiny it isn't noticeable.
You make some good points. Settled on the Peanut this year, too, after carrying stockmans all my life and a few SAKs. Peanut fits in my jeans watch pocket for all my cutting, a 2 layer SAK in same pocket on a pocket clip for the tools. If you don't mind a little longer configuration, the Texas Jack looks interesting. Like a larger Peanut, bone handle. The Oldtimer 340T USA made was a great middle ground. I have 2 I carry occasionally. 3 5/16" long, just fits in watch pocket still. Can still be found on some sites. I put a patina on my blades and they don't rust. But, as you said, if you like knives it's tough to stick with one.
All the knives you mention are great candidates for a pocket knife for life! It depends on tastes and on how much/what type of cutting you do. If I lived in a rural setting, I'd probably go with a SAK Farmer or something bigger. I do so much light cutting, I don't need a saw or larger blade most of the time. I'll be honest and say I did not believe the Case Peanut would be good enough. However, it's still in my pocket, and I like it more than ever, lol!
MrOtterdude Ditto, I wondered what the fuss about such a small knife. Then we realize we spend most of our time carrying it, and only occasionally have to cut something like a package, a thread, a zip tie, a quill. Then realize all it takes is small knife that doesn't fill the pocket. If I were a farmer I'd probably carry a large stockman or a sodbuster.
@@Tilbily Agreed. When I deer hunt, I have a few hunting knives in my pack. When I need a saw, I grab my SAK Hiker or Hunter XT. When I anticipate needing a knife, I make sure I have the one I want, but always in my pocket needs to be small and high quality.
I own two case stockmans, one small in tru sharp and a large in crv. I can honestly say I dont regret dropping almost 60 for the large stockman.
Yep. It would be a VERY capable knife!
Drea Jeffries I own more than know to do with and collection slowly growing. Can help myself!! Love a nice polished case knife! I see one I start counting my wallet! Too much info!! Keep collecting them you won’t be sorry!!
I got a buck 307 stockman in a trade a while back and its amazing and perfect for me for edc. Its been discontinued from what i understand.
Sorry for the delay in responding. HD trouble with my iMac. I like the 307! I might get one!
I've carried a Case stockman for 4 years now. It's worked great!
Yes, it's a great one! However, I think I just found the greatest! I'm going to do a video on it!
@@MrOtterdude Please share
Then the perfect knife for you would be the case pen knife . It is exactly between the peanut and medium stockman.
I'll look at the pen knife.
If you don’t like the Solo, I’d be happy to buy it off you! I love the Solo. I’ve been using a K55K for a long time now but the folded sheet metal has sharp edges and puts holes in my pockets. Plus the blade is just about an inch too long.
I plan to give the Solo another chance, as inattention caused it to bite me. My Case peanut got me good, after having it in my pocket for 1.5 years. Cause was inattention when closing the blade.
@@MrOtterdude I carry the solo and after watching your video I had to get it out and try it a few times. I tried to switch to a SAK tinker small with more functions but this alox keeps finding it's way back into my pocket for EDC. I truly only really use a blade and the fit and finish of the solo is perfect. Plus I'm a huge fan of the steel. It works great for me.
I like carrying a Case pocket knife and have one pocket knife, and one fixed blade hunter from their company. I don't use either of them as they are in my collection and have to get another one to hopefully carry around with me. I have many knives from several companies, but Case is my favorite.
I like them too! I too have the one pocketknife and one fixed blade hunter from Case. I have the Slab Side Hunter. You might want to consider their medium stockman with punch. I like it because it has clip point and sheepsfoot blades and the leather punch. On the other hand, the stockman with 3 sharpened blades might be more useful.
@@MrOtterdude I have the regular size stockman pocket knife with my name put on the blade.
@@semco72057 Ok. You'e all set, lol! Got me beat! A guy from Texas gifted me a Canadian Belt Knife he made from 1095 carbon steel. He put my initials on the blade and sheath, but it's still not a Case! I bet you have a Buck with your name on it too?
I have a MOP Case Russlock which to me is the ultimate everyday carry pocketknife because it's beautiful, it opens with one hand but it's still traditional and it's made in USA.
I always though the Russlock would be a nice knife to own, but I held off due to the "tail" one hand opener sticking out. I thought it might catch in my pocket or wear a hole in it.
You clearly know knives! Yeah, it's hard to beat a peanut. I used to think the stockman was the ultimate, but I've come to prefer the smaller jacks, or even the single blade patterns such as the small cigar jack (out of production for 40 years from Case), the mini trapper (especially the Wharncliffe version), the swayback jack and swayback gent, the Buck 500 series, the slimline trapper, the peanut, etc. Or, if you still want to go with the stockman but stay small (but not too small), the Case 6344.
Remember: "You can never be too thin or too rich, or have too many knives." ;-)
Seems to me you're the one who knows knives! Every knife you named would be great!
I believe you'd find either the Case 4 blade medium congress pocket knife or the 4 blade schrade old timer workmate pocket knife to be what you're looking for.
-I've owned and carried numerous folding knives. Kept a made in USA schrade old timer trailblazer nearly thirty six years that saved my life twice before gifting it to my best Army brother. It was my favorite pocket knife ever.
I've been eyeing a Sodbuster Jr. Right now, it's still the Peanut for around the house and the Victorinox Walker for woods hikes.
Interesting video! Probably you will become a knife-guy and that's only the beginning :)
If you are going to try a Case Stockman please have in mind: the "Medium Stockman", which I think is an ideal size for edc, is available in many different configurations (handle materials and blade types/variants, but not every model is available in both steels) AND: sizes ! (all called "Medium Stockman"), I think there are at least 4 slightly different sizes.
Yes, the medium stockman is my favorite Case stockman. In particular, the stockman with punch.
My dad gave me a medium stockman for highschool graduation. Over the years i lost it and just recently bought another. Only thing is i remember my old one being slab sided and kinda chunky, the new one i have is slender and the handels are rounded instead of being flat slabs of delrin. Starting to think i originally had a large stockman instead of a medium?
I enjoyed the video very much and I can definitely relate. I see you´ve got plenty of recommendadtions, so here´s mine too:
I started my knife journey with standard-size (91mm) 3-layer Victorinox Camper. I have always admired and enjoyed its utility. Problem is that it is uncomfortable for me to carry in the pocket as it wants to lay across on the bottom of my pocket. I dismissed it, went through modern pocketknives stage, realized I do not like pocketclips and wibe they have, came back to traditionals. Discovered Opinel No.06 and I loved it. It is the best pocket knife for me period. I actualy like its weight/bulkiness combination as bulk makes my pocket grip on it and low weight prevents it to slide to horizontal position. Cuts like a lightsaber. Problem is that it lacks functionality I need.
Back to Victorinoxes I went and for 2-3 months I noted all the tools I used or needed to use. After that I evaluated most needed implements and tryied to fit most of them into smallest possible package. I came up with Victorinox Sportsman which is slightly smaller (85mm). And behold, theory met practice. I have been carying it for over a year and its just perfect. Blade just long enough for my cutting tasks, knife small enough to fit confortably to 5th pocket (no lying across bottom of my pocket) and it has just utility I need. Astonishing price/quality ratio too. Opinel is still 100x better knife, but Sportsman is better tool. Yes, boredom settles over me from time to time and I might slip some fancy GEC to other pocket too, but Sportsman holds its place in my 5th pocket. I cannot think to leave it behind. A true "companion for life" as they say at Victorinox.
I suggest you give it a try when you´re finished with peanut, or Vic Tourist (mini Spartan) if you need more blades or say small Tinker for phillips screwdriver and better ergos. Just some 2-layer 85mm Victorinox that suits your needs. And moreover, they are all RED!
Hard drive problems have kept me out of CZcams, so I'm thrilled to finally get back in! I agree with you on the usefulness of SAKs. I like my Hiker! Believe or not, the saw is my most used blade! We're gonna change out my iMac HD, this weekend, and I hope to be back to responding, right away, and also put up a new video. It'll be on primitive arrow making.
Also sportsman
I’m right there with ya, Brother.
I love the Peanut.
Case Medium Stockman is wonderful, too.
Have you tried Great Eastern Cutlery? Superb craftsmanship, you can get the 1095 blades insanely sharp, and they have a wonderfully nostalgic feel to them.
No. I haven't tried GEC but intend to. I like their orange-handled folder called something like the Farm and Field.
Very interesting story. You were almost “there” with the SAK Alinox Solo. Had you just opted for a 2 or even 3 blade model w/ a few extra goodies. But yes that handle/scales profile is way too thin. Never have owned an Opinel. I’d like to and you just saved me from starting lower than the six. Thank you
The Opinel #6 is best for pocket carry. If you have big hands, the #8 is best.
My current favorite knife is my Opinel #8 but I am also rather fond of my Case peanut and if I were to wear pants with smaller pockets my preferences could easily reverse.
I like the #8! I bought one, in beautiful French walnut, and gifted it to my brother who won't carry it. A waste!
💫🧸💫🙂👍
There's 2 things every American male needs to have at some point in their life. One is a good pocketknife. The other is a cap that has a Cat Diesel Power emblem. Until you have those you ain't crap. Lol 🍺😎👍 Still have my Cat cap too.
LOL!
Watched this video again today and went thru my knife collection. I keep them in an old doctor bag. I can't believe I'd forgotten about one. My first lock back knife. A Schrade LB7 still in the original leather sheath. I bought that thing in 1981. It's identical to the Buck 110 but I don't think it was as popular. About 10 yrs ago I put it away for good because I didn't want anything to happen to it and I got a new Buck 110 to replace it but I shouldn't have. I don't hunt, fish, or go camping so I really don't have need of one that big, I just wanted it. Carry it once in a while but not very often. Too big.
I've been thinking about adding a Damascus steel knife to my collection. I've always liked the way the blades look. If I can find one that's not too big. I'd like to find one the size of a large slip joint at most. Something that will fit in my pocket comfortably. Are Damascus blades hard to maintain? Do they rust easily?
@@johnnypetty7931 Back around 76', my mom gave my brother John an LB7 for Christmas. He had asked for a Buck 110. He was disappointed. He still has that knife and developed an appreciation for it, though he doesn't hunt.
@@johnnypetty7931 I haven't tried Damascus steel, but modern Damascus is forged from stainless steels and should be rust resistant.
You need a nice Buck 110
I have one. Nice knife. However, I don't pocket carry it. It's a belt knife.
IMHO, an everyday carry pocket knife...to be used day in & day out...must have a locking blade for safety. I know all the arguements against that statement, but if we can accept anything from our modern knife industry, let it be a locking main blade. The traditionalists can look at copperlocks or tribals, they look good and still lock. Even trappers are available with a locking blade.
I do not agree. I have been using a slipjoint all my life and never cut myself because of the blade closing on my fingers.
@@Lumpy_Peter I honour your loyalty to slip joint knives, as I too have many & love the look & simplicity of a slip joint. But as I write this I'm playing with my Case Tribal lock & my Case Copperlock mini and honestly I see no reason to carry a slip joint when such knives as I just listed exist are being made by a master traditional/sliplock knifemaker (Case). To each his own, but I would never give my grandchildren a slip joint...because I HAVE been cut by a blade closing on my fingers, and do not want to be the person that gives them a knife that is inherently dangerous to use. But if you, after many years of experience, feel completely safe in using your slip joints, then by all means please go ahead. Many are beautiful knives, but for me they are not users considering the many locking options available today.
Been off CZcams for a week due to HD trouble with my iMac. I like both slip joints and locking blades. I will admit, I'm wearing a bandaid on the tip of my index finger. After over 1.5 years of daily carry, my Case Peanut finally closed on my finger, lol! I had it like a razor and it cut me bad! I got careless, wasn't looking at the knife, and I closed it by pressing it against my thigh, while I worked on a task with my other hand. I can't blame the knife, because the cut was due to carelessness. @@blueeyeswhitedragon9839
@@MrOtterdude I know the feeling, the finger cut like a razor, and the cut like being an idiot...both hurt. I have scars from that hurt. Stay safe.
This one won't leave a scar, but I learned a lesson, lol!@@blueeyeswhitedragon9839
Same thing my swiss bit once.⚓
Lol, of all the blades on my swiss tinker, i was only ever cut by the freaking can opener. Idk how but yea.
After going around buying multiple folding knives, I decided to have the Victorinox Electrician and Pioneer X as my daily rotation.
Those are two of my favorites! I've stuck with the Case Peanut, since the video, but I like both you went with.
@@MrOtterdude I find case peanut Blade shape to be very odd. And if you like small Blade, Victorinox Electrician have a fantastic sheepsfoot Blade which is great for box cutter and opening packages. But to each is their own.
@@falkenvir To be honest, I felt the sheepsfoot blade was the best box opening blade shape. However, I found the pen blade on the peanut to be better!
Try Sod Buster Jr., also Rough Rider knives are decently made and do not cost a lot. They have some decent stockman models you might want to consider. I myself recently picked up a small Imperial Sod buster with yellow synthetic handles for $8 and I love it. I have been carrying it more than my other more expensive knives.
Yes! The Sodbuster and Sodbuster Jr. are classics! The only thing they lack, for me, is a pen blade.
Pick pick pick😏
I carry a classic sd 😁😁😁works for me
Only 7? I think I'm on my 115th knife and still haven't found the perfect one for life. I've own a similar Case and they are great. Stockman's are one of the most useful patterns, but I prefer the Congress pattern over it.
The Congress pattern has a lot going for it!
115 knives ? Well done. I have more knives that I need, but the temptation to buy more continues.
I carry a schrade USA medium stockman, a great edc knife!
I've been eyeing them! They look about perfect!
The Victorinox Harvester is likely my keeper. It is discontinued but can still be found.
The Harvester is an Alox 3 layer modified Farmer.
Standard blade with AWL on opposite side. A saw, the bottle opener and the can opener is replaced with the pruner, hawkbill, blade that is great for draw cuts.
If the would make this as a four layer and add scissors would be perfect for me.
The Victorinox Field Master has the scissors but has a smaller standard blade instead of pruner. Again swap that small blade for a pruner would cover my daily cutting tasks.... Large blade, pruner, awl, scissors, saw with thickness to increase grip area.
Lets face it my knife for life is a multi tool. The retired Leatherman KF4 (yellow handle), another multi tool is also almost perfect with multiple blades for different tasks.
The Harvester is a good one! I like SAKs as multi-tools. Never owned a Leatherman, but I know many who carry one daily, usually on a belt though.
You know, for the longest time I struggled to find a knife for life. I carried just about every type of knife under the sun from your traditional folders to the crappy tacticool mall ninja assisted stilettos. The nearest I came to a favorite pocket knife for life was probably my Victorinox Pioneer Alox or TL-29. Now I set after more than a decade of trying different knives and never finding the one that was quite right for me. My most recent endeavors included the Mercator K55K and a Colonial TL-29, neither of which passed muster. The Colonial came as dull as a mall Kiosk Katana and the Mercator had was the perfect thickness, weight, and even size but it hurt to use due to the rivets used on the handles creating several hot spots in your hand. Two underdogs in my recent knife batch surprised me thought. The Victorinox Solo Alox shown in this video which I thought was fantastic but lacked the lanyard ring I like on victorinox knives so they don't get lost in the pocket, something I really worry about since the Solo is so light. The true winner though and I think my pocket knife for life is surprisingly the Kershaw Culpepper. A large single blade Barlow made in china, it fits my hand well. It is slick, smooth, light, and came razor sharp. I'm not worried about losing it in my pocket as it is light enough to carry but you always know where it is. Finally, it is the best affordable knife I've ever owned. I got it on sale for $20 and have since ordered 5 more. Not for gifts or collecting. Simply because I love the knife so much I carry it every day and when I wear it out I want a spare and enough to last me a lifetime should they decide to discontinue the line
I checked it out and can see why you like it. It's a nice knife! That 3 inch blade can handle any tasks expected of a pocketknife! I really like the 3 blade version too!
Try a case medium stockman.
It's next on my list.
They opinel as a twist lock
The Victorinox walker looks like it would be good for you.
Yes, I like the Walker too!
The 6th knife handle design looks cool and I've seen it on many traditional knifed anyone know what there called?
The 6th from the left in the lineup is called stag. In this case, it's fake stag.
"So I rejected it!" Lmfao
Lol!
Awesome video & your views are explained very well.👍🏼👌🏼 But let’s all be honest here. There’s way way way to many beautiful pocket knives out in the world for us to settle for just one! Maybe have a pocket knife for each day of the week FOR LIFE!😄
Great idea! You should consider doing a video on a pocket knife for each week or month. That wouldn't require owning 365 knives, lol!
MrOtterdude 🤣 I’m gonna start recording. But I think that would be 7 knives since there’s only 7 days In a week. I might be wrong though.
I'll subscribe. You'd carry the same knife for a week and then carry a new one each additional week. 52 knives in all, lol! @@mr.delacruz559
MrOtterdude Sounds good! Just need buy about 30 more knives. 😄👍🏼👌🏼I’ll tell my wife it’s for my viewers!🤣
Great! You'll get plenty of subscribers! Check out Vinniesdayoff below this post. He has a fun knife channel. @@mr.delacruz559
That Spyderco quite a collector's piece now I expect
I think other models are way more valuable, but this one does have the molded pocket clip.
I carry an L.T. Wright Patriot every day in my pocket. Nothing like a fixed blade; no moving parts or tolerances, with materials and craftsmanship for lesser price than an equivalent folder.
Fixed blades are my favorites. Still, a little pocket knife is super handy.
Get a victorinox small tinker or sportsman
Good choices! I've been staying with the peanut but taking the Victorinox Walker on woods walks.
You’re a little opening knife that metal part slides to keep the blade in place
You must be talking about the Opinels? The larger #6 has the locking ring. The tiny #4 does not. No lock at all.
Ok sorry did not know that
@@landonschulze5887 No problem. They really all should have the lock, but sizes 5 and down have none. Only size 6 and up have the lock.
I wonder if you have considered a GEC Barlow? Beautiful knife and 2 blades.
That's a good one! I'm also looking at the GEC Farm & Field.
@@MrOtterdude I'm really considering that one too but I want to wait until I can find a sheepsfoot version. The GEC factory is shut down right now because of Covid 19. Whats for sale online right now is all thats available until they open up shop again.
@@codybrookehanson2346 The sheepsfoot blade would give you a lot of utility. I'd wait on it too.
You need to pay attention when you close your knives. Get yourself a Case Med. Stockman 63087. Just a little larger than the Peanut and sits well in your pocket.
Have to agree with you!
The Victorinox solo has been nothing but useful and fun for me.
If you say your first Victorinox in the lineup is too long for the blade, then how come the Solo is too thin lol, if it were thicker it would just be bigger and heavier for no reason.
As it stands it is very light and in one year of everyday use it has never bit me once.
I mean there is a safe way of folding a slipjoint and it is failsafe.
Light weight and small size come with compromises but just the look of it is worth it imo 😍
Well, if it wasn't so slippery it's ready to slide out of your pocket and be lost forever, I'd say its's the pocketknife for life for you! It's inferior to the Case Peanut, in my opinion.
I guess we have to factor in price then.
In Europe I can get the Alox for 16 Euros while a Case would cost me 2.5-4 times as much.
That seals the deal for me but you know how it goes, liking knives is like liking women, you soon get bored and want to move on to something else, not necessarily better, just different.
And since I don't have to marry my knife for life I'd say I don't see myself using just one for life wink wink
@@christosswc LOL! Excellent analogy! I really do agree the Solo is a great knife However, it has a huge fault. It's so nice looking, like a fine woman, I don't want to wear away the paint on the shield! That's why I keep it in the box.
give the case slim line trapper a try
It's a beautiful knife! I have it high on my list! Also the stockman with punch. So far, I like the little peanut more than ever, lol!
Swiss army knife spartan could do the job
What happened to the locking ring on the small Opinal? It should have one like the larger one. The Case Peanut looks like red bone. I don't think it's delrin. You sure?
Only size 6 and up have the lock-ring on Opinels, though they all need one. Size 5, with a lock, would be a great pocket knife! It's Delrin, 100% sure! I could have gotten red bone for a few dollars more, and it's nicer looking, but the Delrin, with this shield, is rare. Also, for over 70 years, Delrin has proven to be the most durable grip material.
Get a trapper it has 2 blades and it’s great
The Trapper is really nice!
A year later but still relevant:- I prefer a Boy Scout style camp knife. The Swiss Army Soldier, Pioneer and Farmer are all acceptable, but I like something more traditional. Boker makes a couple, Case & Queen used to make this camper pattern. Camillus made the U.S. army version & Sheffield makes a few versions for the British military. But what I'm looking for is scout knife with a micarta or packwood scales. I can't get by without a screw driver/can opener/cap lifter...just my thing right now.
(I use the can opener to grab the side bail on my coffee pot when camping. The top bail I can grab with my hand, maybe wearing gloves, but I need something to help tip the pot to pour the camp coffee).
I don't have one but would like to get one. I've been looking at Hobo knife patterns.
@@MrOtterdude :- when I was a kid (60 years ago) I had three or more hobo/camp knives, two of which separated into fork, knife & spoon. Now there just seems to be one or two manufacturers. But as to your quest...I believe tha A. G. Russell has a nice one in his catalog. His knife is called the "Boxcar Jack" a real beauty, and they also carry the Case Hobo. The Boxcar Jack separates into it's various components. Both have that "traditional" look.
@@blueeyeswhitedragon9839 I'll go take a look at it. I'm also thinking of getting one for my nephew when he graduates from HS next year.
@@MrOtterdude :- For my grandson, I bought him a genuine Boy Scouts of America "camp style" folder by Victorinox. Official Crest and all. A pretty decent knife for a first pocket knife.
@@blueeyeswhitedragon9839 That would be a good one!
Try a sway back jack
Yes. It's about this coolest jack!
With the world being the aay it is these days....i gotta have something im able to kindof defend me and my family with...
That being the case, your pocket knife should be a bit larger and pointy and still stay out of the way of things in your pocket. The Spyderco Endura is what I use. My old Endura is also only 2.9 oz.
The knife you call a stockman is rather a cattleman, stockman knives have clip, sheepfot and spey blades and have square ends...
Stockman is used by most companies to describe a variety of three- bladed knives, the most common being what you describe. However, it is also used to describe knives where one blade is a punch or a pen blade.
My EDC is a Nontron they been making them since the 1500's. The other is a Mercator K55k they been making them since Lincoln was in office.
I've seen the Mercator and will look up the Nontron.
Want to rid yourself of the SAK solo...?? Let me know Joe.
Mark- I decided to hold onto it, as it's a neat knife and getting harder to find.
@@MrOtterdude good decision IMHO...ILL do some look in around...😀
@@tikkidaddy I'll look for you too.
@@MrOtterdude well thank you sir! I appreciate that!
@@tikkidaddy Check out eBay under victorinox solo. They have silver, blue and green Solos for $31 to $36.
Lot of problems bro...😜😜😜
Try a buck 55
I'll check it out. I'm still loving the Case peanut.
MrOtterdude it is a half size 110
Right. A nice knife! @@michaelgeswin5349
I'll study this one.
A spyderco with plastic molded pocket clip!? hmm mm a true unicorn I'm sceptical
Sorry for the delayed response. Hard drive problems with my iMac. Changing the HD this weekend. Yes, the early Spyderco knives, at least the Delica and Endura, had molded clips. It's great on my Endura, but my brother lost his Delica and blamed the clip.
You are sacrificing so much by choosing any of those knives. If you want a lightweight, small knife that has a great blade and is actually useful I recommend either the Mini Bugout in CF elite, or the Mini Gtiptilian. These are lightweight knives that feel good in the hand and are actually useful. You will love them both!
I disagree! I nice little slip joint with a few blades does the job well!
Oh boy you're so fickle of a chap. Its Christmas time soon and I'll be a happy owner of your Victorinox Cadet Alox if you'll gift it for me
I was just ready to gift it to you. Then, I realized it's a Victorinox Solo, not a Cadet, so I'm keeping it!
Case sucks