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Posted: 6/10/2008 5:09:23 PM EDT
Not sure if this is a dead-horse issue, but... Pros? Cons? Something in the 6-7" range, lo-pro, semi-affordable... I'd love me a Strider WP DP, but that might be a bit excessive. But a similar full-tang knife would be ideal. any input? |
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The only problem with a fixed blade knife is concealability. In general, I would rather have a fixed blade than a folder for every situation. However, fixed blade knifes take a lot of room, and trying to carry one around without looking like you are a rambo-wannabe is a little difficult with larger fixed blade knives. I do have several smaller EDC blades that have an overall length of around 4-5 inches. As for Strider knives go, they make a decent knife, but they don't meet your Semi-affordable category. Look at a Fallkniven. Great knives at a great price. |
I carry a Scrapyard Yard Guard in a Kydex IWB sheath. As others have said, concealability is difficult with a larger fixed blade. Some days I go a slightly different route, like today... I'm carrying it in a cordura nylon tactical sheath, hanging off my belt right down into my RF pocket. This method actually works pretty well. Here is the knife: You might want to take a look at the Kershaw Zero Tolerance ZT0121. This is next on my purchase list:  And then there's the TOPS Interceptor 351 River Hunter. This one is 2nd on the list: 
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What's affordabe to one isn't always to the other, but either way there are just so many choices out there you really need to either expand on your exact material wants more. I just got a RAT7 from a member here and had been admiring them for a while and even though I haven't put it through the paces yet, it's easy to see it would be fine choice for just about anyone. I still do prefer premium stainless steels overall but 1095 is still a good general steel that's tough, holds a great edge and will last you a long time with a little more oil. I carried a SpecPlus Fighter on my LBE for years in the 82nd and know Ontario can make a pretty durable knife if they do it right. For a 6 to 7 inch general use blade the RAT7's are a nice value for the money. Pick which steel you want for use is all. D2 for more of a cutter and 1095 for more of a chopper. Ontario Rat's Knife Center  |
+1 I like the Daggers for self protection but most of them come with BIG SHEATH |
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I also like a fixed blade for EDC. Size and concealability are a concern, as is legality! (knife carry is not covered under my NY CCW, so no automatics and no double-edged.) I keep the blades small and carry either IWB, high-ride on my weak(left) side, or cross-draw in the small of my back if I'm not carrying my 1911 in my IWB rig. Of course when I'm deployed (as I am now), all the "rules" are out the window and it is "whatever works". I stick with the same blades and carry locations for continuity, but also have several larger blades I will carry as the situation dictates. Here are two of the "EDC" fixed blades. Top to bottom: Mission MPU (Model 107) Ti, Busse Combat Game Warden (just got it, love it!)  Here are the carry rigs:  And this is what I just ordered: Mark X Tactical Custom from Eddie White at Shadow Knives  I have a few others back home in the safe (RAT-3 D2, CRKT Stiff K.I.S.S., Gerber Guardian Backup) but what's pictured above are my main carry blades. Not exactly bargain basement, but not terrible either. The Mission and Busse were around $225 ea, and the Mark X was just under $200. For a slightly lower budget, I'd recommend the RAT-3 D2, which can be found for around $75 shipped or less. All above is just my .02, best of luck!  |
| I carry a RAT3 in the factory kydex sheath. I carry it on my left side blade forward IWB. It rides well and I can get it out very fast. I use to carry a Cold Steel Kobun in the same position but the 5.5" blade got to where it was just too uncomfortable. Here in TX we are only allowed single edge and up to 5.5" blades so to stay legal that restricts selection but the RAT3 serves well. I've looked at trying one of the Boker's that is already pictured above or a CRKT Triumph. |
| I like the Kalista. Goes for $150. multiple carry options are available from Blackhawk! |
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I had a Moccasin Ranger for a while and even though I sold it because it didn't quite fit my needs it was still a high quality made knife. TOPS has expanded their selection since then and I would buy another one no problem. You should give them a good look as they may have a blade perfect for you. TOPS Knives |
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