FAO XL and others-Great Knives@Great Prices

[Vikram]

I did not want to sidetrack Mack's Gunny thread.

I am not a knife collector or even a regular user,except in the kitchen.I am not knowledgeable in the art of knife making or the nuances of knife designs. However, I do like a good knife, and if I can get one at the price I can afford or someone gifts it, I would not say no. Of course, price and affordability are relative as we know. These are some of the very good knives that I learnt of from the sages of sharpened steel.

These are all hunting knives,BTW.

1. Beretta Loveless Hunter and Skinner knives. Designed by R.W.Loveless- Made for Beretta in Japan. I have not heard a single criticism about them. The Hunter is a half-tang and the Skinner a full tang.They would cost both your kidneys if they are original Loveless made.

You can get these for $45. But, they are getting rarer by the day as either they are not being produced anymore or being bought out faster than the production.



If you want to get fancy- About $120-140



2. Helle Odel

Usually retails for around $130-150.



But, you can get the blade for $30 and build the handle and make the sheath for yourself. If you want, kits are available.

http://www.discountcutlery.net/HE15BLD- ... 35969.html



3. Like Helle Odel-Another Knife kit

Karesuando Knife kit

http://www.heinnie.com/-Knife-Kits/Kare ... -884-3526/



4. Mora Knives from Sweden

http://www.moraofsweden.se/products/adventure

You can google about these knives and find out for yourselves how well regarded these knives are.

This knife can be had for under $20! That does not mean that they are cheaply made. Many experts concur that they are great knives, punching way beyond their price tag.



The Bushcraft Survival knives can be had for about $35! Again excellent value.



All the Mora knives are, as the reviewers put it, scary sharp!

These are just some of the knives that can be had without hurting your wallet too much. I am not saying that these are the best. But, if you can't or won't spend over $100, these are great alternatives.


Best-
Vikram

[knifejunkie]

u missed the sog fusion , cold steel night shade and glock knives series.

[Vikram]

u missed the sog fusion , cold steel night shade and glock knives series.

That was not meant to be an exhaustive catalogue of good knives.If you think that you know of a good knife at a good price, post the name,make and a link to it.Thanks.


Best-
Vikram

[shooter]

Thanks vikram.
moras rock.
I am speaking from the hunting perspective. A knife needs to be affordable. Many folks think that a well made knife may be expensive but will also last a lifetime. This is theoretically true. Its no hidden secret that knives get lost. They should cost low enough to not feel the pinch. Anyone who has tried to gut deer in the field in the dark (and/or in snow) know what I am talking about.

Opinel are also good but chances of cutting ones fingers as there is no finger guard and blood+ wood handle is the most lubricating combo.

I'am starting a review of products in the field use. It wont include making techniques or "tech-specs" or investment opportunities. It will be about performance only. Reviews by a common user with common needs, common expectations and common budget. Watch this space.

[only32owner]

Hi Vikram,
Thanks for this post.

I have a similar Mora Knife, but with grey sheath and handle.
Very happy to see it in your list also.

Regards.

[only32owner]

Hey,
All IFGians and more perticularly knife expert friends here,

Its a wonderful post keep it alive, please.

As pointed out by Vikram and shooter also, a good knife need not be an expensise one with a brand name.
I am also a total novice in these matters,
I imported few and got mora localily here.

Even I use to think , more the cost better the knife will be. But when we can get Great Knives @ Great Prices with your help, Why not?

So experts kindly chip in.

Regards.

[brihacharan]

[quote="Vikram"]

I am not a knife collector or even a regular user,except in the kitchen.I am not knowledgeable in the art of knife making or the nuances of knife designs. However, I do like a good knife, and if I can get one at the price I can afford or someone gifts it, I would not say no.
Best-
Vikram

> Thanks Vikram - You just echoed my sentiments too re: Blades
> Am sure you'd agree with me - Blades have a character of their own!
> Thanks again for sharing
Briha

[xl_target]

Opinel are also good but chances of cutting ones fingers as there is no finger guard and blood+ wood handle is the most lubricating combo.

Amen!

When reaching inside the body cavity to cut the esophagus of a deer, you are generally working by feel. It is not the time to have a knife slip.