Damascus Steel

[xssve]

I like both those knives, but I'd be afraid to use either one of them - I don't hesitate to abuse my cheapo Chinese folder, if it breaks, what am I out? $10?

For a disposable knife, it's survived an uncommon amount of abuse.

 

[Techomancer]

My grandfather used one of these all his life for just about everything, I've been carrying on for a few years and I have to say that it's one of my favorites.

You can get them from Lee Valley if you can't find a local source. There is also some history on the pattern and privilege to make them that you can read here.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laguiole_knife

 

[SeaCat]

I like both those knives, but I'd be afraid to use either one of them - I don't hesitate to abuse my cheapo Chinese folder, if it breaks, what am I out? $10?

For a disposable knife, it's survived an uncommon amount of abuse.

It's funny but I have this thing about knives. They have to be sharp and hold an edge for at least a couple of uses. I've had the el cheapos and ended up sharpening them at least once a week. (Usually until the blades vanished.)

My favorite knife was another Gerber. It was a short wide bladed thing with plastic handles and a Laminated Blade. (Very hard steel sandwiched between two layers of milder steel.) That thing held an edge forever and because of the shape of the blade I could use it to do just about anything. Too bad Gerber doesn't make those blades any more.

One of the reasons I don't go after makers like Benchmade is because of their price. Ultimately all pocket knives are disposable. (The same as Sunglasses.)

Cat

 

[SeaCat]

My grandfather used one of these all his life for just about everything, I've been carrying on for a few years and I have to say that it's one of my favorites.

You can get them from Lee Valley if you can't find a local source. There is also some history on the pattern and privilege to make them that you can read here.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laguiole_knife

Nice looking knife but I don't know if that would work for me. Looks to be a bit too long for what I need it for.

Cat

 

[SeaCat]

Well I broke down and picked up a knife today. Nothing fancy but one I think will work well. It's a Buck Mini Trapper.

Two blades neither of which is over 1.5 inches long. Just what I need.

I'm still thinking about ordering the other two but at least now I have the knife I need.

Cat