Multitool.org Forum
Tool Talk => Edged Tools => Topic started by: Grant Lamontagne on April 13, 2015, 04:16:18 PM
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As you all know, I am a big fan of the CRKT Neckolas knife designed by Terry Renner for kayaking, and have purchased several of them over the years for myself and to give away.
(http://gallery.multitool.org/pbmirror/2011-07-10_14-35-28_436.jpg)
This was the idea kayaking knife as it was small, light, easy to orient in the hand without looking, blunt/rounded tip, brightly colored, secure in the hand and locks into the sheath securely. Frankly, I am hard pressed to think of any knife that would be any better. The other knife that has seen a lot of time in a kayak is the Boker Canoe Kayak Knife designed by my buddy Abe Elias of Diving Sparrow Knifeworks.
(http://gallery.multitool.org/pbmirror/Personal/Kayaking/Four%20Lakes%20Run/October%2019%202014/20141019_104535_zps111d94db.jpg)
This knife is purpose designed for kayaking but is a bit bigger than I am comfortable with and a bit bulkier than I like. This is just personal taste though, and I admit I have probably been ruined by the compact Neckolas. I'm also not convinced Boker did this knife justice either- the kydex sheath should be a foldover type so it takes up less space and the steel is not a stainless type and so I have experienced some corrosion with it, although it has been quite minor. Overall, a good knife and a good contender, but not quite what I want.
CRKT also makes (or made since it is discontinued now) the MUK or Marine Uitility Knife which is also a very good option.
(http://gallery.multitool.org/pbmirror/CRKT%20IDWorks/Multi%20Utility%20Knife%20MUK/Front.jpg)
I really do like the feel and ergonomics of this knife. It was designed to be a fishing knife and feels really good in the hand. Unfortunately it is discontinued, has a bit too much of a point for me to feel totally comfortable with and, as it was meant to keep in a fishing tackle box, does not have much of a sheath. I have thought about getting Eric at On Scene to make me one, but the sheath and the mail to him and back would end up costing a lot more than the knife does in the first place.
So, I am faced with getting a new knife since none of the fallbacks I have are ideal choices. I am looking at two possibilities- the Gerber River Shorty and the CRKT Bear Claw.
The River Shorty now comes in green, which I am more likely to opt for since the black is oddly enough not really that highly visible.
(http://www.gerbergear.com/var/gerber/storage/images/frontpage/outdoor/knives/river-shorty-green_31-002645/4702418-2-eng-US/River-Shorty-Green_fulljpg.jpg)
I had one a while back and gave it to my father. I don't know if he uses it or not, but at around $30 it won't break the bank to give it a shot. Cost is an important factor when working with equipment around the water as sooner or later something is bound to drop in the drink.
I've looked at the Bear Claw off and on for a variety of reasons over the years- I like it, but I'm not sold on it if that makes any sense.
(http://www.crkt.com/crkt/content/images_inv/g/i/68/2500_xlarge_68.jpg)
The Bear Claw is a few dollars more expensive ($43 locally) which isn't the end of the world, and comes in orange so it has the high viz aspect covered. I have heard rumors that either the sheath doesn't secure properly (not a big deal as I wear them as neck knives) or the knife occasionally falls out- a real deal breaker for this kind of thing. Plus the plastic sheath looks a lot bulkier, which I don't want.
Does anyone have any experience with either of these knives, or have any other suggestions I should look at?
Def
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I know nothing about these but just out of curiosity: what are the specific properties of a kayak knife?
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It's a lot like an emergency or rescue knife really since there is a good chance it will be used as such.
In a nutshell you need:
High visibility so when it falls in shallower water you can find it again.
A blunt tip is preferred so you don't puncture yourself, the boat or any other flotation equipment.
Needs to be easily orientable in the hand so you always know which way the sharp bit is going.
Needs to be VERY easy to grip as your hands are likely to be wet.
Proper securing sheath and knife are highly important so it's there when you need it. It's hard to retrace your steps on a lake and locate something you've dropped.
Serrated or partial serrations are important because you will likely need to cut rope and or webbing.
Corrosion resistance is absolutely necessary as it will be used wet and put away wet.
It also needs to be immediately accessible- no securing straps, no folders, nothing. You need to be able to grab it and use it.
While I hope to never use my knife to save myself or someone else, I do often take people who have never kayaked before with me, and I do sometimes like to hit some dangerous spots myself, so not being prepared is pretty stupid.
It does however get used almost every time for a variety of regular type tasks like opening food packages, making minor repairs to boats and other equipment etc, so it should also be all around handy too.
Def
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The shape of the Gerber is similar to the knives that are kept on our SAR Helicopters liferafts. Though the Gerber is MUCH nicer looking!! :D
(http://i1077.photobucket.com/albums/w472/derekmachfx/Knives/42615D4E-700B-46D2-8DB0-0AD30BCF2FB4.jpg) (http://s1077.photobucket.com/user/derekmachfx/media/Knives/42615D4E-700B-46D2-8DB0-0AD30BCF2FB4.jpg.html)
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Thanks for the info. Corrosion resistance was the only one I could come up with myself :facepalm:
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Is that a wood handle? If so, does it float? That seems like a good idea on a liferaft, although I'd think the color would be brighter just to make it easier to see if it's dropped.
Def
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Although I have no experience kayaking I do have a NRS pilot knife for swift water rescue use. I love it, the only issue is the steel is a little soft but the sheath works great and is extremely fast to extract the knife from. It has a blunt/pry tip, serrated blade, and a high vis grip. Here is a picture from google since mine is at the station in my locker lol. (http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/13/e76cfb659a99b53b56e3690d5a8039cf.jpg)
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Is that a wood handle? If so, does it float? That seems like a good idea on a liferaft, although I'd think the color would be brighter just to make it easier to see if it's dropped.
Def
It is wood, and I just checked, and yep, it floats. :D They are kept in a red pouch that is right by the mooring lines, and they are tethered to the raft.
Here's a small pic (not mine) of it attached to the raft.
(http://i1077.photobucket.com/albums/w472/derekmachfx/Knives/knife.jpg) (http://s1077.photobucket.com/user/derekmachfx/media/Knives/knife.jpg.html)
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Did I miss the part where you mention how you carry it?
(Pocket, strapped to Life-Preserver, neck, etc....)
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Although I have no experience kayaking I do have a NRS pilot knife for swift water rescue use. I love it, the only issue is the steel is a little soft but the sheath works great and is extremely fast to extract the knife from. It has a blunt/pry tip, serrated blade, and a high vis grip. Here is a picture from google since mine is at the station in my locker lol. (http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/13/e76cfb659a99b53b56e3690d5a8039cf.jpg)
I've been looking at those too, but have shied away since I haven't heard of the brand or know anything about them. I have seen far too many cheapos like that in big box stores that I really didn't look closely at them. If you say they are good then I will take another, closer look.
Def
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Is that a wood handle? If so, does it float? That seems like a good idea on a liferaft, although I'd think the color would be brighter just to make it easier to see if it's dropped.
Def
It is wood, and I just checked, and yep, it floats. :D They are kept in a red pouch that is right by the mooring lines, and they are tethered to the raft.
Here's a small pic (not mine) of it attached to the raft.
(http://i1077.photobucket.com/albums/w472/derekmachfx/Knives/knife.jpg) (http://s1077.photobucket.com/user/derekmachfx/media/Knives/knife.jpg.html)
Crude but effective! Doesn't look like what I need, but it does appear to be exactly what you would want in a life raft!
Def
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Did I miss the part where you mention how you carry it?
(Pocket, strapped to Life-Preserver, neck, etc....)
Typically I wear it as a neck knife.
Boker:
(http://gallery.multitool.org/pbmirror/Personal/Kayaking/20141026_100746_zpsuthl719c.jpg) (http://s253.photobucket.com/user/Multitooldotorg/media/Personal/Kayaking/20141026_100746_zpsuthl719c.jpg.html)
Neckolas:
(http://gallery.multitool.org/pbmirror/Personal/Kayaking/Birch%20Cove-%20June%2008%202014/20140608_125426_zps0a89425f.jpg) (http://s253.photobucket.com/user/Multitooldotorg/media/Personal/Kayaking/Birch%20Cove-%20June%2008%202014/20140608_125426_zps0a89425f.jpg.html)
I have started wearing a more typical style paddling vest instead of the inflatable one you see in the photo above, and it has a mounting doodad on it for knives like this one:
(http://www.crkt.com/crkt/content/images_inv/f/h/67/NeckolasDraw.jpg)
I could use that, but for some reason I prefer to wear it around my neck.
Def
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You may look into "Scuba" classified knives as well.
For basic PADI certification had an older Scuba Max KN-141 on my BCD. It was perfect. Needed some sharpening out of the box but it was 10 USD. It might be a little too much "edge" for you though.
Here is an amazon link.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0084HGH0I/ref=pd_aw_sbs_sg_12?refRID=123CX3MX6JXGD0N4KGDX
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Although I have no experience kayaking I do have a NRS pilot knife for swift water rescue use. I love it, the only issue is the steel is a little soft but the sheath works great and is extremely fast to extract the knife from. It has a blunt/pry tip, serrated blade, and a high vis grip. Here is a picture from google since mine is at the station in my locker lol. (http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/13/e76cfb659a99b53b56e3690d5a8039cf.jpg)
I've been looking at those too, but have shied away since I haven't heard of the brand or know anything about them. I have seen far too many cheapos like that in big box stores that I really didn't look closely at them. If you say they are good then I will take another, closer look.
Def
I got mine at REI, I have had good luck with it so far but it is not one I use all the time so I can't speak to long term wear and tear. The steel seems to be a 440 or 420 it wears a lot like my leatherman wave. I got it mostly because of the sheath which works amazing, just check it out next time you see one.
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They have them at Mountain Equipment Co op just a few blocks from my house so I'll be sure to check it out the next time I'm there.
Def
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What about something like a Becker Necker or something similar? I know there not dedicated water knives, but there a lot more useful should the worst happen and you need shelter or a fire going :)
The new TOPS Overlander 2 looks like a great little knife to use in an emergency :)
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I have a Becker Necker that someone gave me a few yeas ago :D and I really love it as an EDC or woods knife but it really isn't suited for use in the water due to the lack of serrations, the point on the end and the fact that it really has no resistance to corrosion. That having been said, I usually pack it with any equipment I'm taking when I go into the woods because it and the Grohmann (also a gift from someone! :P) are perhaps the best outdoor blades going.
I have also been somewhat interested in the Benchmade river knife (can't recall the name at the moment) but if I recall it's a bit pricey.
Def
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Also discontinued. And at $100+ dollars, wouldn't be much of a contender anyway:
http://www.benchmade.com/products/110H2O
Def
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I have a dive knife. It has all the things you listed except it is black. But you can change the handle inserts to a bright color.
You want a pic?
That's us mobile
Nate
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Oh I remember the blades mate ;)
I figured the coating would protect the blade to a fair degree.
My favourite river knife would be the Spyderco Caspian but I'd expect its big money ???
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I have a dive knife. It has all the things you listed except it is black. But you can change the handle inserts to a bright color.
You want a pic?
That's us mobile
Nate
I'd love to see what it is.
Def
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Oh I remember the blades mate ;)
I figured the coating would protect the blade to a fair degree.
My favourite river knife would be the Spyderco Caspian but I'd expect its big money ???
Sadly also discontinued and more expensive than the Benchmade.
http://m.spyderco.com/catalog/details.php?product=288
Def
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Biker did a double edged dive knife with a blunt tip but I can't remember what it was called?
Give me a mo...
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http://www.bladehq.com/item--Boker-Plus-Diver-s-Knife-Fixed--12137
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(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/13/fca0a26a5e5e22549facb4eba0c2f95b.jpg)(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/13/7b309dbd5082d114512b2e9866f8d80a.jpg)
That's us mobile
Nate
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The holster on that thing is a monster!! ^^^
Looks awesome.
But I see a Kydex Sheath better suited for neck carry might just be because I'm a Kydex-aholic
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Grant,
did you ever decide on a new kayak knife ?
for those looking for a neck knife the mora eldris might be an option, though i don't think suitable for kayaking . . .
eamon
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Really love that Böker (was looking at that as a rescue knife). Can we have more pictures? Please?
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Grant,
did you ever decide on a new kayak knife ?
for those looking for a neck knife the mora eldris might be an option, though i don't think suitable for kayaking . . .
eamon
I have a couple I am trying. I found the Benchmade knife mentioned above and bought it. It's a nice knife and I like it a lot, but it's not really what I was after, and not just because of the pricing.
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41UaPdri2oL.jpg)
It doesn't orient in the hand as well as the Neckolas did, and the cutter on the back seems like a bad plan for trying to cut away something that has you tangled up. You would either use the blade and hook/tear yourself open or you would use the hook and slice yourself open. :ahhh
I also picked up the CRKT Bear Claw- I got the orange Rescue version instead of the black one pictured above. It has a nice curve to it so it is easy to orient, rounded tip so no stabbing, curved, serrated blade, is high visability, pretty much everything I want in a kayak knife.
But it's no Neckolas..... :ahhh
The Boker is a nice knife as well, but I found it a bit bigger than I wanted. I've been talking to Abe Elias, the designer of the knife and mentioned my input on it- it needed to be about 1/3 smaller and made from a more corrosion resistant steel. He agreed and insinuated that there may be a next generation of the knife more in line with what I suggested.
I'll see if I have some more photos. The knife is with my kayak gear a thousand miles away so there's little chance of any new ones any time soon.
Def
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I came accross a UK site which appeared to have the neckolas in stock for £32 (I think) plus p+p.
edit - i can't find the link so i must have confused it with the bearclaw :facepalm: :oops:
What are your thoughts on the nrs co pilot ?
Pricewise also about £30 or so but looks more versatile then the neckolas ? Or is versatility even something I should be thinking of in a kayak/boat/dive knife ?
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I came accross a UK site which appeared to have the neckolas in stock for £32 (I think) plus p+p.
edit - i can't find the link so i must have confused it with the bearclaw :facepalm: :oops:
What are your thoughts on the nrs co pilot ?
Pricewise also about £30 or so but looks more versatile then the neckolas ? Or is versatility even something I should be thinking of in a kayak/boat/dive knife ?
I don't have a lot of experience with that knife although I do know a few people who have them (including DKS I think? ) and they are quite find of them. I don't think you would go wrong with them, but they aren't my choice.
Every one is different though!
Def
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I came accross a UK site which appeared to have the neckolas in stock for £32 (I think) plus p+p.
edit - i can't find the link so i must have confused it with the bearclaw :facepalm: :oops:
What are your thoughts on the nrs co pilot ?
Pricewise also about £30 or so but looks more versatile then the neckolas ? Or is versatility even something I should be thinking of in a kayak/boat/dive knife ?
I don't have a lot of experience with that knife although I do know a few people who have them (including DKS I think? ) and they are quite find of them. I don't think you would go wrong with them, but they aren't my choice.
Every one is different though!
Def
yeah my problem is i have very little experience - i expect/hope to be doing a lot of kayaking over the next 12 months so i think i'll wait a few weeks and i might have a better idea what my needs are.
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I came accross a UK site which appeared to have the neckolas in stock for £32 (I think) plus p+p.
edit - i can't find the link so i must have confused it with the bearclaw :facepalm: :oops:
What are your thoughts on the nrs co pilot ?
Pricewise also about £30 or so but looks more versatile then the neckolas ? Or is versatility even something I should be thinking of in a kayak/boat/dive knife ?
I don't have a lot of experience with that knife although I do know a few people who have them (including DKS I think? ) and they are quite find of them. I don't think you would go wrong with them, but they aren't my choice.
Every one is different though!
Def
yeah my problem is i have very little experience - i expect/hope to be doing a lot of kayaking over the next 12 months so i think i'll wait a few weeks and i might have a better idea what my needs are.
Experience doesn't matter so much as a 'canoe' attitude Eamo. I'll get my coat.
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Sadly I agree with Magentus.... :ahhh
I'd rather adopt a Ready, Fire, Aim policy rather than a wait and see policy when it comes to kayaking. Grab something that looks useful now, then decide what you like/don't like about it, and if necessary, grab something more suitable along the way.
The Gerber River Shorty (http://www.gerbergear.com/Knives/Fixed/River-Shorty-Green_31-002645) is back in production and quite inexpensive, and also a very good choice. I had one and liked it, but I gave it to my father before it got too many miles on it.
A good knife is something you don't want to head out without. Maybe it won't be something dramatic or lifesaving (I hope it isn't!) but repairing and jury rigging equipment, making lunch etc, you'll definitely want one.
As soon as I get my kayak box from Halifax I'll go through it and let you know all of what is in it- I keep a number of things in there to set up for whatever I might encounter. A short list of what is in there is:
- Stretch and hold silicone tape
- Duct Tape
- Adjustable wrench
- Numerous waterproof boxes of various sizes, styles and types
- Zip ties
- WD-40
- Sunscreen
- Bug Spray
- Bungee cords, nylon straps
- Boat emergency kits
That is mostly stuff that is left on shore, but I can take what I need out of it before I head out, plus I can tighten/adjust/modify any of my boat carrying racks on the trailer with this setup.
In the boat I carry the standard emergency kit, which is mandatory in Canada for any boat. That includes a floating rope, whistle, flashlight, signaling device and a bailing device.
I also wear an inflatable pfd, or a paddling pfd. You can't wear a standard type pfd in a kayak as it is very uncomfortable and you'll probably end up taking it off or it will chafe the smurf out of your armpits. It is well worth getting the proper type pfd.
If you have any other questions I'd be happy to answer. I'm not a pro, but I have logged an awful lot of time in a kayak!
Def
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Sadly I agree with Magentus.... :ahhh
Seriously ?
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If you have any other questions I'd be happy to answer. I'm not a pro, but I have logged an awful lot of time in a kayak!
thanks Grant appreciate that. Some good advice there :tu:
Its a bit of a story and not an interesting one, so short version - initially, I will be in a group with instructors etc - in a school type setting I dunno would any type of knife be frowned upon in this pc age. (all the students are adults but even so). So until i start I need to wait and see. Personally, I would be more comfortable having one, but
a) incredibly unlikely i'd need one starting off
b) i'll bring an MT for now
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Here's Grathr's Kayak thread that I hijacked to talk about the Boker knife:
http://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,52909.msg915777.html#msg915777
Def
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once again overthinking this . . .
between the NRS copilot and the Gerber river shorty i'd go with the copilot because -
its smaller overall with a smaller blade - i want a small unobtrusive tool
it's cheaper - unfortunately, a factor
it's slightly heavier but i don't think that matters (17 grams i think)
blade material is the same.
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Sadly I agree with Magentus.... :ahhh
Seriously ?
Ha! Take that eamo!
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The more I've read in this thread, and the more I've researched based on everybody's suggestions, I'm thinking the Gerber River Shorty with a new kydex sheath would be a great addition to my inflatable, permanently attached for all my on-water uses. For $25-$26, it looks like the best option, even as a necker.
Thanks... :2tu:
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Sadly I agree with Magentus.... :ahhh
Seriously ?
Ha! Take that eamo!
But why Mags ? Why ?
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once again overthinking this . . .
between the NRS copilot and the Gerber river shorty i'd go with the copilot because -
its smaller overall with a smaller blade - i want a small unobtrusive tool
it's cheaper - unfortunately, a factor
it's slightly heavier but i don't think that matters (17 grams i think)
blade material is the same.
Cheaper is absolutely a factor when you are talking about something you are using around water. I bring my snorkel gear most of the time so anything that drops 10-15 feet might be recoverable but the odds decrease significantly beyond that. I'd suggest a 24-30" lanyard, clipped to your pfd as well, although I never use one. I take my chances, although I know I'd be pretty angry seeing the knife disappear in the water.
If the Copilot seems like the best choice then by all means get it. It will be miles better than not having a knife handy!
Def
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Grant, any thoughts on folders ? other then the fact it is a folder and not a fixed - i think fixed is better, but having a knife in public view will likely be frowned on.
This seems a nice tidy knife which fits the bill (literally it's only £12 shipped) . . . .
http://palmequipmenteurope.com/product/folding-knife-0
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Have you considered a folder or fixed blade with cork scales Eamo? I'm sure I saw one on a thread here. Or an ordinary knife with a cork on a lanyard so it'll float?
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Have you considered a folder or fixed blade with cork scales Eamo? I'm sure I saw one on a thread here. Or an ordinary knife with a cork on a lanyard so it'll float?
no, i hadn't . . . criteria are it needs to be blunt tip, it needs to be serrated as in an emergency, rope/webbing is most likely what it'd be cutting, preferably fixed but a) they're £30 ish plus shipping for anything decent, and b) unfortunately, it has to be unobtrusive, so i'm thinking folder in a pfd pocket.
i'll have a search for cork handled knives though infairness, the folder i linked to pretty much fits the bill and is only £13 inc shipping to me here, how bad ??
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Have you considered a folder or fixed blade with cork scales Eamo? I'm sure I saw one on a thread here. Or an ordinary knife with a cork on a lanyard so it'll float?
no, i hadn't . . . criteria are it needs to be blunt tip, it needs to be serrated as in an emergency, rope/webbing is most likely what it'd be cutting, preferably fixed but a) they're £30 ish plus shipping for anything decent, and b) unfortunately, it has to be unobtrusive, so i'm thinking folder in a pfd pocket.
i'll have a search for cork handled knives though infairness, the folder i linked to pretty much fits the bill and is only £13 inc shipping to me here, how bad ??
That 13 quid one looks good. You could always consider a cork scaled one further down the line when you're not collecting kayak knives as well as all the other (Mora, SAK, Bieber Barbies) you're not collecting.
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That 13 quid one looks good. You could always consider a cork scaled one further down the line when you're not collecting kayak knives as well as all the other (Mora, SAK, Bieber Barbies) you're not collecting.
NO WAY ! ! ! ! you're getting me a Bieber Barbie ! ! ! ! ! Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaayyy
and i only possess one swiss army knife :P :P :P so still not a collection nor am i a collector.
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A fixed blade is better than a folder, but a folder is better than none. If you don't think you can get away with a fixed blade then by all means get a folder. Spend some time grabbing it at different angles and flipping it open safely without looking at it just to be sure you can do it when you need to.
In all honesty you will probably never need your knife to rescue you, as these types of situations are rare, and most people paddle their entire lives never needing to do a serious self rescue. But then I've also never burned down my kitchen either but I still have a fire extinguisher there. :D
Def
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as usual, and like most of us, i agree with you Grant.
A fixed blade is better than a folder, but a folder is better than none. If you don't think you can get away with a fixed blade then by all means get a folder. Spend some time grabbing it at different angles and flipping it open safely without looking at it just to be sure you can do it when you need to.
sound advice, for reasons you've outlined i'd prefer a fixed blade, and I think i've settled on the NRS co-pilot, nice, small, tidy. But it can wait, when i'm off on my own i can carry what i want :D
In all honesty you will probably never need your knife to rescue you, as these types of situations are rare, and most people paddle their entire lives never needing to do a serious self rescue. But then I've also never burned down my kitchen either but I still have a fire extinguisher there. :D
exactly, and kind of one of the reasons i don't want a bear claw but something more multifunctional - this is afterall a "multi" forum :rofl:
have you ever gotten your knife snagged on anything while wearing it on your pfd ?
I'll get my coat.
please do, Mags, please do
That 13 quid one looks good. You could always consider a cork scaled one further down the line when you're not collecting kayak knives as well as all the other (Mora, SAK, Bieber Barbies) you're not collecting.
ok, for £13 inc shipping i ordered one of the palm equipment folders. Should be here next week so happy days. When will my Bieber Barbie be here ? Is it the leatherman or sak version ?
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Have either of you seen the Meyerco Necklance River Rescue knife designed by Blackie Collins? It is 6 inches overall with a 3 inch blade and it has a blunt tip and a rather aggressive serrated edge. It is cheap on E bay (under $10 U.S.) and is covered by a lifetime guarantee. I'm not endorsing this knife, it's just another possibility that I've found while searching for "rescue knives."
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I think I might have to give that one a shot. The price is certainly right, although I hoe it comes in different colors.
Def
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that is an interesting looking knife alright !
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ok, for £13 inc shipping i ordered one of the palm equipment folders. Should be here next week so happy days. When will my Bieber Barbie be here ? Is it the leatherman or sak version ?
wooooo my order has shipped ! hopefully with me monday or tuesday . . . .
Mags, has my Bieber Barbie shipped ? i do so want the leatherman version :dd: :dd: :dd:
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ok, for £13 inc shipping i ordered one of the palm equipment folders. Should be here next week so happy days. When will my Bieber Barbie be here ? Is it the leatherman or sak version ?
wooooo my order has shipped ! hopefully with me monday or tuesday . . . .
Mags, has my Bieber Barbie shipped ? i do so want the leatherman version :dd: :dd: :dd:
Shipped this morning Eamo - I had to order in extra leather.
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ok, for £13 inc shipping i ordered one of the palm equipment folders. Should be here next week so happy days. When will my Bieber Barbie be here ? Is it the leatherman or sak version ?
wooooo my order has shipped ! hopefully with me monday or tuesday . . . .
Mags, has my Bieber Barbie shipped ? i do so want the leatherman version :dd: :dd: :dd:
Shipped this morning Eamo - I had to order in extra leather.
EPIC
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Have you thought about attaching one of these to your kayak knife in case it goes overboard?
https://www.amazon.co.uk/LandNSea-530-Davis-Instruments-Buoy/dp/B000ZOV6TU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1468701685&sr=8-1&keywords=davis+key+buoy
It was on dragons den a few years ago and got funded.
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Maybe too large to wear as a neck knife but this would be my choice if attached to a safety vest.
Mora Companion Rescue Knife, blunt tip, serrated, light weight, stainless & cheap!
http://www.worldknives.com/products/mora-clipper-companion-rescue-knife-ft11828-2899.html
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Have you thought about attaching one of these to your kayak knife in case it goes overboard?
https://www.amazon.co.uk/LandNSea-530-Davis-Instruments-Buoy/dp/B000ZOV6TU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1468701685&sr=8-1&keywords=davis+key+buoy
It was on dragons den a few years ago and got funded.
I've seen those for keys and things, but no, I never wanted anything fiddly on it.
Maybe too large to wear as a neck knife but this would be my choice if attached to a safety vest.
Mora Companion Rescue Knife, blunt tip, serrated, light weight, stainless & cheap!
http://www.worldknives.com/products/mora-clipper-companion-rescue-knife-ft11828-2899.html
I think I'd like that a lot more if it was a sheep's foot.
Def
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Have either of you seen the Meyerco Necklance River Rescue knife designed by Blackie Collins? It is 6 inches overall with a 3 inch blade and it has a blunt tip and a rather aggressive serrated edge. It is cheap on E bay (under $10 U.S.) and is covered by a lifetime guarantee. I'm not endorsing this knife, it's just another possibility that I've found while searching for "rescue knives."
a question on a blade such as this - the serrations seem very deep, would a blade like that snag on stuff you're trying to cut ?
Have you thought about attaching one of these to your kayak knife in case it goes overboard?
https://www.amazon.co.uk/LandNSea-530-Davis-Instruments-Buoy/dp/B000ZOV6TU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1468701685&sr=8-1&keywords=davis+key+buoy
It was on dragons den a few years ago and got funded.
i'd (once again) agree with Grant, keep it simple, a flotation thingie would only get in the way i'd think
Maybe too large to wear as a neck knife but this would be my choice if attached to a safety vest.
Mora Companion Rescue Knife, blunt tip, serrated, light weight, stainless & cheap!
http://www.worldknives.com/products/mora-clipper-companion-rescue-knife-ft11828-2899.html
i like moras but i dunno, i prefer small for a PFD/BCD knife.
Been looking at a lomo for my youngest for her BCD, nice, small and handy (and cheap)
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I agree with you there eamo, the Lomo compact BC knife looks a lot more suitable than the Mora.
https://www.ewetsuits.com/acatalog/Lomo-bcd-knife-bc-compact-hi-vis-yellow.html
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wooooo my palm equipment knife arrived ! :mail: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:
pics when i have time
but . . . . no sign of my leatherman bieber barbie from mags . . . . :wait: :wait: :wait:
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(http://i1159.photobucket.com/albums/p639/eamonf/20160718_175043_zpskrtpljbb.jpg) (http://s1159.photobucket.com/user/eamonf/media/20160718_175043_zpskrtpljbb.jpg.html)
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The Boker is a nice knife as well, but I found it a bit bigger than I wanted. I've been talking to Abe Elias, the designer of the knife and mentioned my input on it- it needed to be about 1/3 smaller and made from a more corrosion resistant steel. He agreed and insinuated that there may be a next generation of the knife more in line with what I suggested.
1/3th smaller sounds about right. This is the reason why I haven't ordered one yet.
I was also looking at the Fox Composo Neck Knife (http://www.foxcutlery.com/n/en/product/613/compso_neck_knife_-_desig.html)
For me, this one has the right size, however, the serrations are at the wrong end of the edge.
(http://www.foxcutlery.com/n/files/SHwY2l/compso_neck_knife_-_desig.jpg)
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I'm glad it got there safe and sound Eamo! I can't wait to hear your thoughts on it!
Beat, that Fox knife does look pretty good, even if they did install the serrations backwards....
Def
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wooooo my palm equipment knife arrived ! :mail: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:
pics when i have time
but . . . . no sign of my leatherman bieber barbie from mags . . . . :wait: :wait: :wait:
Patience young padawan - I didn't know you were so excited about it.
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Hey team, saw this and thought I ought to share...the NRS Pilot knife for under $20...just ordered this off the West Marine website: http://www.westmarine.com/outlet/buy/nrs--pilot-knife-with-sheath-orange--15999576
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Hey team, saw this and thought I ought to share...the NRS Pilot knife for under $20...just ordered this off the West Marine website: http://www.westmarine.com/outlet/buy/nrs--pilot-knife-with-sheath-orange--15999576
yup, they have some sweet deals but by the time it gets to my part of the world, just aint worth it :(
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wooooo my palm equipment knife arrived ! :mail: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:
pics when i have time
but . . . . no sign of my leatherman bieber barbie from mags . . . . :wait: :wait: :wait:
Patience young padawan - I didn't know you were so excited about it.
:wait: :wait: :wait::wait: :wait: :wait::wait: :wait: :wait::wait: :wait: :wait:
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i never did get my leatherman bieber barbie . . . . perhaps it's traveling with Dolly ?
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I don't know if these would qualify as kayak knives;I got them years ago and understood they were diver's backup knives.These are the only two I've ever seen. Can't remember if they are marked or not;will have to dig them out and check.Background is as usual 1"(25.4mm)squares.
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Those look pretty cool. Any identification marks on them?
Def
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Just to revive this one a bit- I have been using the Benchmade 110H2O model for kayaking and other outings this year, and although I have had too few trips in the boat, I have come to really like this little knife.
(http://67.media.tumblr.com/1ca6da3861ca5fb058e255dc50aeb111/tumblr_mgpyvrR4LG1ql6waho1_400.jpg)
I have the yellow version, and, while it doesn't meet all my criteria (especially price, I paid over $100 for it! :ahhh) it is a very nice knife. Naturally, since I like it, it is also long since discontinued. :facepalm:
Of course I am also looking at other knives that might work, and I came across the Gerber Epic (http://www.gerbergear.com/Knives/Fixed/Epic-Knife_31-000368) which also looks interesting. If only it came in a non tactical, high visibility type color, like orange, yellow or a really, insanely bright green.
(http://www.gerbergear.com/var/gerber/storage/images/frontpage/knives/fixed/epic-knife_31-000368/8478915-8-eng-US/Epic-Drop-Point-Sheath-Serrated_fulljpg.jpg)
But, as the season is over (for me at least, I am a fair weather kayaker and proud of it! :P) and my boats are put away for the year, I am more planning for next year than actually expecting to pick something up.
I looked at the NRS models, and I am not sure I am comfortable putting my life in the hands of a 420HC knife, and, while there is a titanium version, I don't really want to drop $100 on on- they just don't seem that exciting to me. I'll probably try one eventually, along with another Gerber River Shorty.
Def
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Both Mora and Hultafors do stainless rope knives. Cheap and with good reputation, what's not to like?
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I'm certainly hard pressed to find something I don't like about them, but I'm not really sold on the configuration for kayaking.
Def
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Never having kayaked.... is that a word? .....I don't understand what does make for an appropriate knife. On the canal boat, it was all about rope cutting. What are the three primary features you need for it to be a decent kayakable.... I'm doing it again :ahhh ...... knife?
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Three main things huh? Simple enough:
1- Easily and securely attaches to a PFD or can be hung around your neck without worry of losing it.
2- Safe tip and serrated blade for cutting rope or webbing that may get tangled.
3- Easily oriented in the hand from any angle so you can be sure that the rounded tip and serrated blade are pointed the right way.
Much of this is oriented towards whitewater and I don't (usually) just go for whitewater, but the kind of kayaking I do, you can encounter just about anything, including whitewater. When you are paddling on the ocean or flasmurfer (lakes etc) there really isn't any need for a knife. When you stop for lunch or to make camp you can use the kayak knife or you can bring a secondary knife, especially since weight doesn't matter as much in a boat as when you are climbing or hiking.
But, when you hit whitewater you don't know what is under you so if you roll and get snagged you want to get out quickly since you may not have had there ability or wherewithal to have taken a breath on the way down. A couple of years ago Megan got snagged on a rock, right next to a submerged telephone pole which also had the steel climbing pegs in it. Since everything is tied to the boat, there are lots of ropes to get snagged on something like that, plus the straps on your PFD, and the rigging on your boat.... plus there can be old ropes, fishing lines, nets, weeds etc, all capable of grabbing you. If you can't quickly get yourself free, someone else may get a free boat. :ahhh
Def
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Anyone considered the HHA MUK-01G? :P
http://hardcorehardware.com.au/hardware/muk01-g.php
(http://hardcorehardware.com.au/webinc/hardware/TOOL_0000_MUK01-G.png)
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Nice knife, but it looks a little big, a little darkly colored and a lot too expensive for a kayak knife. I'm not sure how comfortable I'd be watching $270 sink to the bottom of a lake or river! :ahhh
Plus if I get tangled in something and need to cut myself free I'm a bit worried about what that tip and the sawback teeth are likely to do to my precious flesh and organs. :ahhh
Def
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I'm not sure how comfortable I'd be watching $270 sink to the bottom of a lake or river!
It's got a lanyard hole ;)
Plus if I get tangled in something and need to cut myself free I'm a bit worried about what that tip and the sawback teeth are likely to do to my precious flesh and organs.
It just needs a little cover for the saw, a-la GAK.
(FWIW - I don't really like HHA stuff (although I've only ever used one of their D2 knives....)
I discovered this bad boy whilst reading a Hatchet review listicle, that, aside from being a bunch of random words strung together to pass as an article - They managed to review the same HHA hatchet TWICE, in different colours, without apparently noticing.
(I'm guessing the "article" was written by doing an image search for "tactical hatchet" , picking 10 images, and writing some stuff that made it look like they'd ever actually be in the same room as a hatchet (much less the ones they were "reviewing" )
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Grant, any success with this ?
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Grant, any success with this ?
I haven't picked up another River Shorty or the Epic yet, but either way my boats are put away for the season and I doubt I'll be getting them out again before the spring.
Def
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any reason you go for a fixed over a folder ? i can think of a few obvious reasons, but i'd be curious to hear yours.
I carry the palm equipment folding knife, only used it for maintenance tasks and thankfully so far haven't needed it in an emergency. In ireland (and i think the UK) fixed blades unfortunately are frowned on due to the "rambo" phenomenon/public perception :( :(
i think i asked you before, few months back, have you ever looked at the NRS co pilot knife ? it's a bit pricey but looks a nice knife if fixed is what you need. but, i have never played with one.
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As someone who has been upside down in a whitewater boat I am surprised that you would ask why I prefer a fixed blade! :D
When your kayak/paddler ratio inverts it can be very disorienting and the fewer complications you have while trying to learn to breathe underwater the better.
Def
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As someone who has been upside down in a whitewater boat I am surprised that you would ask why I prefer a fixed blade! :D
there is this thing called inexperience :D - yeah, i get the easy to deploy, but then theres the risk of it snagging on something, etc.
one of the things drilled into us from day one is "trees are not your friend" when it comes to rivers and kayaking. a lot comes back to advice you gave me a few months back, make sure i can access and open my knife with either hand, and eyes closed etc. And the rapids i've been playing on so far are only grade 2 so not particularly hazardous.
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You are right of course, but the reality is that moving water can always put you places you don't want to go, and bump you into things you don't want to bump into. Megan had a couple of experiences that made her quickly realise how dangerous a current can be. One was when she was in a fairy fast but shallow current and her boat fetched up on a rock and started to turn. She quickly jammed her paddle in and pushed herself up on the rock for more stability and used her paddle to keep from turning.
Another time was further up the same waterway when the water was only a few inches deep on a sandbar. The current was rushing out for the day (the Shubie Canal ends at the Bay of Fundy, home of the highest tides in the world, and the tide was going out) and dragging us along with it. Unfortunately there were some shallow spots, and the water was rushing so fast that it only took a second or two to fetch up, turn sideways and roll. Luckily it was only soft sand and extremely shallow, so no real danger, but that's not what you are thinking about when you are being almost forcefully ejected from the boat.
In the first scenario if she had rolled she would have hit many rocks, and it would have resulted in many broken bones a long way from help. The second situation wasn't as grave, but happened much faster.
Don't underestimate what can happen in a current, even a relatively slow and safe one. The areas we were in were Class 2.
Admittedly in either case a knife wasn't going to do a damned bit of good, but it's more to give you an idea of how quickly things can change, and I wouldn't want something underneath or any of my rigging keeping me from the oxygen I have been addicted to for years.
As for it snagging, I haven't found that was a serious problem yet. The Benchmade rides quite flat on my PFD, and the other knives I have had were hung around my neck and tucked inside my PFD. Anything is possible, but I'll take the chance of having them snag over not having them at all. Especially with a neck knife, as if I did get hung up by it, it means I still have it with me, and can find it easily enough to free myself.
I still haven't tried the CoPilot knife. I have been looking at them and I'm not sure I want to take the plunge (so to speak) on it. I think I prefer the larger Pilot's knife and I recall thinking I preferred the titanium version (for some reason) and decided to write it off as I have no interest in dropping $200 for it.
Def
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You are right of course, but the reality is that moving water can always put you places you don't want to go, and bump you into things you don't want to bump into. Megan had a couple of experiences that made her quickly realise how dangerous a current can be. One was when she was in a fairy fast but shallow current and her boat fetched up on a rock and started to turn. She quickly jammed her paddle in and pushed herself up on the rock for more stability and used her paddle to keep from turning.
Another time was further up the same waterway when the water was only a few inches deep on a sandbar. The current was rushing out for the day (the Shubie Canal ends at the Bay of Fundy, home of the highest tides in the world, and the tide was going out) and dragging us along with it. Unfortunately there were some shallow spots, and the water was rushing so fast that it only took a second or two to fetch up, turn sideways and roll. Luckily it was only soft sand and extremely shallow, so no real danger, but that's not what you are thinking about when you are being almost forcefully ejected from the boat.
In the first scenario if she had rolled she would have hit many rocks, and it would have resulted in many broken bones a long way from help. The second situation wasn't as grave, but happened much faster.
Don't underestimate what can happen in a current, even a relatively slow and safe one. The areas we were in were Class 2.
Admittedly in either case a knife wasn't going to do a damned bit of good, but it's more to give you an idea of how quickly things can change, and I wouldn't want something underneath or any of my rigging keeping me from the oxygen I have been addicted to for years.
As for it snagging, I haven't found that was a serious problem yet. The Benchmade rides quite flat on my PFD, and the other knives I have had were hung around my neck and tucked inside my PFD. Anything is possible, but I'll take the chance of having them snag over not having them at all. Especially with a neck knife, as if I did get hung up by it, it means I still have it with me, and can find it easily enough to free myself.
I still haven't tried the CoPilot knife. I have been looking at them and I'm not sure I want to take the plunge (so to speak) on it. I think I prefer the larger Pilot's knife and I recall thinking I preferred the titanium version (for some reason) and decided to write it off as I have no interest in dropping $200 for it.
Def
again, you're right, i have always treated water be it sea or river with a VERY healthy respect. Some good advice there Grant :2tu:
One thing to mention is I am always on the river with instructors who are very very good at what they do.
and yeah, titanium is crazy money, for me anyway.
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Found this... looks like a good knife for the job
Edelrid RESCUE CANYONING KNIFE (https://www.edelrid.com/us/sports/diverses-en/rescue-canyoning-knife.html)
Not really much information
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Since I don't whitewater per se, I have been winging it with regards to the knife I carry when kayaking. If anyone happens have a CRKT Neckolace for sale, I would love to try one. Looks pretty good but they don't seem to make them anymore.
That Benchmade is crazy expensive for something that may find its way into the drink and lost to the elements the first time I have to use it, but that's just me. Otherwise seems nice.
Anyone had any experience with the Gear Aid Akua? I have not, but found it while researching. 420 steel, Titanium coated. Serrated and plain edge. The blunt end is flat enough to be used to pry clams. Bright green yellow handle. Drainholes in sheath. Removable side clip. I think it is under $30 USD.
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Found this... looks like a good knife for the job
Edelrid RESCUE CANYONING KNIFE (https://www.edelrid.com/us/sports/diverses-en/rescue-canyoning-knife.html)
Not really much information
Interesting, but the handle looks a little slick and awkward? Of course, so did the Neckolas, but now it is hands down the best kayak knife I have owned.
I don't see any pricing info on that page- in fact the whole website seems a little wonky, like they just threw in a bunch of features and never looked to see if any of them were working. :facepalm:
Def
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Since I don't whitewater per se, I have been winging it with regards to the knife I carry when kayaking. If anyone happens have a CRKT Neckolace for sale, I would love to try one. Looks pretty good but they don't seem to make them anymore.
That Benchmade is crazy expensive for something that may find its way into the drink and lost to the elements the first time I have to use it, but that's just me. Otherwise seems nice.
Anyone had any experience with the Gear Aid Akua? I have not, but found it while researching. 420 steel, Titanium coated. Serrated and plain edge. The blunt end is flat enough to be used to pry clams. Bright green yellow handle. Drainholes in sheath. Removable side clip. I think it is under $30 USD.
Rule #1 of kayaking is "If it's not secured, it's not yours."
Rule # 2 is "Always have a knife."
You are right though, the Benchmade is quite expensive for a knife that is used around water, and that is usually against the rules. However, that having been said, I am liking the Benchmade very much, although it is also discontinued, so if it goes, I won't be able to get another. :facepalm:
That Gear Aid one you posted looks like a potentially useful blade for the water, and I may have to get one and try it out. Unfortunately the season is pretty well over here, so I'll probably wait till closer to spring to pick one up. The concern I have with it is the image of the guy using it as a screwdriver. As a knife guy it makes me cringe as it means either the blade isn't properly hardened meaning it won't take a decent edge, or it is properly hardened and they are encouraging people to break their knives, since screwdrivers are usually much softer. Still, it looks like a good alternative to the Benchmade, with a very similar blade style.
Thanks for the heads up!
Def
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Found this... looks like a good knife for the job
Edelrid RESCUE CANYONING KNIFE (https://www.edelrid.com/us/sports/diverses-en/rescue-canyoning-knife.html)
Not really much information
Interesting, but the handle looks a little slick and awkward? Of course, so did the Neckolas, but now it is hands down the best kayak knife I have owned.
I don't see any pricing info on that page- in fact the whole website seems a little wonky, like they just threw in a bunch of features and never looked to see if any of them were working. :facepalm:
Def
Edelrid has a good reputation in the climbing world... so I'm a bit surprised that the knife costs less than 40$ (canyonstore.eu (https://www.canyonstore.eu/belgium/product/edelrid-canyoning-knife/))
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That's not a bad price either. I think I may try that one out too for that price.
Def