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overlord


Jan 11, 2004, 3:44 PM
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good outdoor/climbing knife
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im looking for a good and reliable knife. heres the requirements:

1. preferably folding (if folding the blade must be locking, one had usage)
2. i only need a single blade, but multiblade affair is also acceptable
3. about 10cm (4in) blade
4. durable, easy to maintain and sharpen
5. i would also like if it had something wich i could use to attach it to my harness

anyway, if you have a knife similar to what im looking for, post your experience.


j.bl
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Jan 11, 2004, 4:13 PM
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Did you already look at the new petzl knife? Looks like a good one to me.

Small version

Large version

I'm actually thinking of buying that one myself, when I walk into it.


maldaly


Jan 11, 2004, 4:30 PM
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I don't think that Petzl knife locks. I have always carried a small (2" blade) locking knife on a string around my neck. I think that it'ts made by Spyderco but lots of companies make knives like this. Because it's on a string around my neck I can open it one-handed if I need to cut a sling or something. It weighs nothing and doesn't add the all the other crap I carry on my harness. Swiss Army knife goes in my pack. Based on the recommendation by Aron Ralston I carry one with a saw blade;-)
MCD


overlord


Jan 11, 2004, 5:01 PM
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i also have a swiss army knife with a saw, but i cant use it with one hand.


celticelement


Jan 11, 2004, 6:11 PM
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Cold Steel makes very good blades of all types.

Here are their folding knives: http://www.coldsteel.com/folding-knives.html

I had a Voyager, the Tanto half serrated. I really loved it. It had a good edge; it was sharp and stayed sharp. Unfortunately, I lost it at a summer camp where I was working for a summer. The knife has a knob that allows you to open it with one hand. With practice you can flick that blade out fast. It also has a pocket clip. It would probably attach well enough to a harness. I always just carried the thing in my pocket.

After I lost the Cold Steel I got a Gerber, folding lock blade. It is a great knife. It has a hole in the blade for one-hand opening. It also has a superb edge on it. Many of their knives have pocket clips on them as well, which you could use to attach to a harness.

Here is Gerber's web site: http://www.gerberblades.com/


climber_osu


Jan 11, 2004, 6:22 PM
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gerber makes one called the international. It has a partial serrated blade, lock, one handed operation, and a belt clip. Also, they are reasonably priced and carried by lowes in their tool department.


hema


Jan 11, 2004, 6:30 PM
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The Petzl sort of locks, so no real Gerber/Psyderco like locking mechanism, but it does have a small clib-semilocking thingy, a bit like the one on Leatherman Wave.

I usuallu carry the Petzl one around, but I also have Spyderco Rescue, which is great if I have to chop a lot of ropes or small trees etc.


mike_the_sumo


Jan 11, 2004, 6:50 PM
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I'm really happy with spyderco knives - I've got 3 carry knives and a couple kitchen/utility ones http://www.spyderco.com/ One handed opening and closing, a strong lock and good steel.

Delica is a nice size and could be threaded with 3mm cord (it's in my self rescue bag that way). They used to have one with a small carabiner-like clip at one end but that may be discontinued.


I've no idea where you would find one in slovenia. I see them here (France) and a couple other places in the EU.


deke


Jan 11, 2004, 7:34 PM
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Definitely spyderco. I have a few of theirs....worth the extra money!

right now I've been using my little ladybug a lot. i have it on my keychain and then i just attach a biner to it when i go climbing.

check it out!


sfb


Jan 11, 2004, 8:03 PM
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I personally just use the same knife I use when hunting. If take care of and regularly sharpened it'll cut anything you'll need a knife for while climbing. Here's the one I carry. It's a little large for every-day carrying, but like I said, it'll cut just about anything.
http://www.buckknives.com/catalog/detail/224/223


jimdavis


Jan 11, 2004, 11:49 PM
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The Petzl knife sucks, I can't see how anyone can actually open it with one hand. I've also seen it open up when we didn't want it open. So it's not going near my gear.

CRKT knifes, Spyderco, Cold Steel are all good. I've had 2 CRKT and I love em. I use a Point Guard now, which opens/ closes with one hand and has 2 locks. Gerber's are cheaper and break easier. Spyderco's are more expensive but you get what you pay for.

Also check out some of the Buck Protege line knives.


chossmonkey


Jan 11, 2004, 11:58 PM
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I have a tiny folding Buck knife that I attach to the back of my harness with a short piece of cord and it stays out of the way until I need it. It has a serrated blade that easily cuts through crusty old rap slings for replacing. I have another larger Swiss Army type knife that I carry in my pack for doing odd jobs while at the crag.


gravitysucks


Jan 12, 2004, 12:48 AM
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I second jimdavis ^^^^^^. my Columbia River (CRKT) blade is choice.
I have the Point Guard (6763) 3.5 in serrated edge.

:) it's rugged but light...all metal "skeleton" type design
:) folding blade with security lock
:) lifetime warranty
:D has withstood many a fruit juice/ dirt bath backcountry adventure, opened cans of stew and can still slice a tomato and make fries
:D Special Forces & SEALS use them so it makes me look like a chick to be reckoned with
:D a carry-everywhere tight harness/ belt clip in case I ever have to go Joe Simpson on my partner's ass.

one of the best gifts I have ever received. I told my Uncle exactly what I wanted and this is what he came back with. and he spent a good spell during the 70's after the Army down in Columbia so you know he's savvy.


soleclimbr


Jan 12, 2004, 1:20 AM
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i second the spiderco the best is the clip it and itwill go on ur harness. allaround bad ass knife


grabngrip


Jan 12, 2004, 1:33 AM
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I use my Smith and Wesson "Extreme Ops" knife. Also use it for hunting. Fits all your requirments and more. Smith and Wesson also came out with the "Homeland Security" knife. pretty awesome. check them out

Daniel :)


ubotch


Jan 12, 2004, 2:08 AM
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I have this Buck Approach knife and I love it.

http://www.buckknives.com/catalog/detail/248/230

The blade is the perfect size, it is easy to open and close with one hand, it is made to clip to a biner and the blade is serrated which makes cutting rope or webbing super easy. I haven't tried a lot of other knives but I love this one.


epic_ed


Jan 12, 2004, 2:35 AM
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Spyderco. It's one of the most frequently used brand of knives by SAR people. There are several models that meet your criteria. A lot of people prefer the lady bug.

Ed


Partner coldclimb


Jan 12, 2004, 3:38 AM
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I have this one. Works better than you might think, as it's out of the way and nicely stowed until you put some weight on your harness. Got it from a guy on the street in the phillipines though, so it's not widely available. ;)

http://www.morffed.com/pics/knifebelt.jpg

Edit: I also have a ton of other knives. Whichever one I take up with me on a climb just depends on what I feel like that day. Generally I'll have this one clipped to my harness somewhere, because it weighs nothing and takes up no space.

http://www.schradeknives.com/simon.htm


scubasnyder


Jan 12, 2004, 4:02 AM
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i like spyderco knoives they have one that has a clip on it, that is what i use


kingman


Jan 12, 2004, 4:14 AM
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Spyderco, definitly the best in the business. Kershaw is also very good, but they tend to be even more pricy. I've used CRKTs and spyderco's. Loved them all.


redroxboy


Jan 12, 2004, 4:18 AM
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The petzl knives feel very weak and do not lock, but they are cheap. I would go with the gerber that looks like the petzl, but it is about tiwce as much.


mark_e_wallace


Jan 12, 2004, 4:28 AM
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I go along with the other Spyderco recommendations. In particular, I think the FRN-handled (Fibre Reinforced Nylon) Delica is a fine choice. It doesn't weigh much, keeps a good edge, opens easily (Spydie hole), and is economical.

-- Mark


Partner bouldertom


Jan 12, 2004, 4:48 AM
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I have a Kershaw folder. It's a one handed opener that locks. I've used this outside on all kinds of stuff (except on anything for climbing.) It has a very strong clip which would easily attach to a harness. I thought it was a good purchase at ~ $50. But what do I know?


tarzan420


Jan 12, 2004, 5:06 AM
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i also have the buck approach, i like it.

the one-handed opening is kinda stiff (it has gotten better)
my fiancee's short approach opens very smoothly, however.


dmr


Jan 12, 2004, 5:22 AM
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I carry a Benchmade for everyday stuff at work or car camping. Its a nice knife, easy onehand opening and closing, good steel,etc. However, for climbing I just keep a cheap Spyderco serrated in my chalk bag. I think its the Ladybug. Its small, light and does a good job cleaning up old slings. It has a clip and a hole to tie a loop of cord.

Here's a link to a Benchmade vendor, lots of good info, but they only carry a few models. https://www.expeditionexchange.com/benchmade/

Also, the Spyderco Ladybug. http://www.spyderco.com/...8L8HCTU0X6HH2X6Q82W3


jackscoldsweat


Jan 12, 2004, 6:23 AM
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If you want the best.....


www.benchmade.com


My father has collected knives avidly since serving in the military back in the 60's and 70's. I have attended several gun & knife shows with my father since I was a kid. So I like to think that I know something about what makes up a good knife. The ats34 steel used in most Benchmade blades surpasses any other blade makers prefered material. ATS34 steel maintains it's edge after extended use and is corrosion resistant. This means you won't have to sharpen it all the time. Other than custom made blades (of which you will pay a pretty penny), no other brand comes close to Benchmade's quality. Period.


JacksColdSweat


fasdy


Jan 12, 2004, 9:28 AM
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Coincidence: I bought the S&W Ex. Ops today. It's so hot man. I can't wait for it to arrive (I bought it online).. it's being shipped out this morning.

I'm a giddie girl when it comes to new "toys." :D


Partner rrrADAM


Jan 12, 2004, 9:42 AM
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Spyderco... I have 4 Enduras and one Rescue. All old style with the molded clips, not the new metal ones. I am also partial to the "Spyder Edge" (serated), as it'll cut through the thickest nylon in one cut, not to mention flesh... It's not easily sharpened by one's self, but I have a guy who does it for only 5 bucks each blade.

They have a hole at the back that will allow for a "key ring" or lanyard to be attached, and a biner can go to this.

Endura:
http://www.spyderco.com/...ges/medium/C10BK.jpg

Rescue:
http://www.copquest.com/17-1030.jpg
The Rescue goes with me when I climb, usually just on my pack, unless I'm doing Grade III's or IV's, as it has a "sheeps foot", and mine is bright yellow.

If you are into Kali, or any other Martial Art that trains with knives, they even have a great training blade (dulled)...
Endura Trainer:
http://www.spyderco.com/...ges/medium/C10TR.jpg



I also live in LA, so the Endura is my American Express Card, as I "don't leave home without it", and it's saved by bacon twice through the years. :wink:


danielb


Jan 12, 2004, 11:01 AM
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I'm a swiss army knife fan myself, got the basic spartan model atm. May upgrade to something with a saw on it later.

DanielB


overlord


Jan 12, 2004, 11:13 AM
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ok, ill try to get something from cold steel, spyderco or benchmade. bum im still undecided between a straight and serrated edge.

any additional info is still appreciated.


mike_the_sumo


Jan 12, 2004, 12:18 PM
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In reply to:
ok, ill try to get something from cold steel, spyderco or benchmade. bum im still undecided between a straight and serrated edge.

any additional info is still appreciated.

I've found a straight edge cuts cleaner but dulls faster while the serrated edge will stay sharp through more cuts.

One other consideration, my "walking around knife" is straight edged as it seems to look less menacing to police and coworkers.


overlord


Jan 12, 2004, 12:31 PM
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my main concern with a serrated edge is sharpening. i have no idea how to sharpen it (to maintain proper serration size).


j.bl
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Jan 12, 2004, 1:08 PM
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In reply to:
The Petzl knife sucks, I can't see how anyone can actually open it with one hand. I've also seen it open up when we didn't want it open. So it's not going near my gear.

Good thing I read this.


traddad


Jan 12, 2004, 1:51 PM
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Spyderco Ladybug. REAL small and light, cheap(ish) and sharp....all the things I need and none of the things I don't.


jackscoldsweat


Jan 12, 2004, 2:18 PM
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If you want a straight edge and a serrated.....

Although these knives are restricted to military and law enforcement personel only, you can still pick one up at a gun & knife show. And for much less than what it's posted as on the link below.

http://www.benchmade.com/products/product_detail.asp?model=9100

this is one 'bad' blade. It'll go through a car door (not that you'll need to but it will never break on you) and still hold it's edge. the style of blade gives it strength.

they do make other blades with both straight and serrated and available to the general public.

JacksColdSweat


tallelk


Jan 12, 2004, 3:32 PM
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I have a knife from Schrade. The blade is half smooth and half serrated. It works well. One hand operation both opening and closing. It is a locking blade and has a tether you can attach to belt loop or gear loop. You can buy it at Walmart for around twenty five bucks I believe.


galt


Jan 12, 2004, 4:54 PM
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Spend the money and get yourself a Benchmade. I love my Osborne and it's a trusty climbing companion. I know it cost a pretty penny, but it's truly one of the best. Stay away from the low end Gerber’s as that company has gone downhill in the past few years. (Note, they still carry some ok higher end knives.) You might also want to check out “Master’s of Defense” knives. Don’t let the name get you, they are quality knives designed by a bunch of guys who worked at Benchmade a while back. My ONLY beef with them is that they don’t have the best action out of the box.
If you are just looking for a knife to get you out of a tight spot I second the CRT KISS (I have one in my first-aid kit). Hope this helps.


mike_the_sumo


Jan 12, 2004, 5:31 PM
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In reply to:
my main concern with a serrated edge is sharpening. i have no idea how to sharpen it (to maintain proper serration size).
I thought about posting this when I mentioned the knife, the spyderco tool will sharpen anything with an edge. Don't let anyone use a grinding wheel (the only way they sharpen things here).

Also, I went 6 years without sharpening my serrated delica. It was still "acceptable sharp", ie I could cut rope or boxes and shave wood. I only got it sharpened when I moved across the street from the factory store. Later on I bought the sharpener.

http://www.spyderco.com/...9JP9KL5SENT9GG0V9NF9


brianinslc


Jan 12, 2004, 5:47 PM
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In reply to:
If you want a straight edge and a serrated.....
Although these knives are restricted to military and law enforcement personel only, you can still pick one up at a gun & knife show. And for much less than what it's posted as on the link below.
http://www.benchmade.com/products/product_detail.asp?model=9100

I thought the spring was a little "slow" in the Benchmade...although, the safety lock is something I wish my Microtech had....(even though mine's a tad "loose"...).

Have a Microtech UDT that's pretty snappy...(really a nice item...and the purple anodized handle looks pretty neat with the semi serrated blade, and a great size too).

But...I just carry a Spyderco Ladybug or Jester (neat-o blade design). I've worn these against my skin both climbing and canyoneering (the ladybug for around 8 years). No corrosion, blade stays pretty sharp. Been very happy with these.

Teeny Gerber (LST?) has a super sharp blade that cuts thru webbing/rope I think about as fast (or faster) than serrated, for some reason (thinner? sharper?). Good option too.

Benchmade's are great. Resharpen option for 5 bucks can't be beat. If they made a smaller version of their less expensive plastic handled model, I'd be there. Especially with a modified sheeps foot (has to cut both rope and cheese/salami). Their rescue hook is pretty cool, too, and if you really needed to be disconnected or simonized from your rope, webbing, or seatbelt, that'd be the winner. I use the detachable neck cord that comes with the rescue hook for carrying my Spyderco...pretty nifty design...bit of shrink wrap tubing...with a hard tug, comes right off.

Brian in SLC


celticelement


Jan 13, 2004, 7:48 PM
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In reply to:
im still undecided between a straight and serrated edge.

I really love having both serrated and straight on my knife. Many of the Cold Steel knives have the option of being un/half/or fully serrated. Just go with the half serrated version. I don't worry about sharpening the serration. I only use it to cut cords and rope. It stays plenty sharp, for my uses, for years.

Cold Steel is greatly superior to Gerber. Gerber is just cheeper.

Because the Gerber works for now, knives are far down on my list of things to buy. When I do get around to getting good knives again I want the Cold Steel Recon 1 folding knife (Tanto point, half serrated), and the Recon tanto fixed blade.

http://www.coldsteel.com/recon1.html
http://www.coldsteel.com/13rtk.html

My first knives were Swiss Army knives. After a while I discovered all I ever used was the blade anyway. Plus the blade would sometimes close when I did not want it to, and I cut my fingers a couple of times because the blade wouldn't stay put.


overlord


Mar 2, 2004, 11:10 AM
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bump

im going shopping for it in the next 14 days, so if you have any additional info...


jebel_andi


Mar 2, 2004, 1:51 PM
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if you want a good knife for climbing get the buck knife revalution xt

http://www.buckknives.com/catalog/detail/245/229

it is designed specificaly for climbers it can open one handed and it has all you will ever need; a sharp blade, a carribiner built in to the knife and a bottle opener for cracking open a few tall ones after a long day of climbing.

i got this as a christmass gift this year and i never leave home with out it.

p.s. the price listed on the web page is $90 but you can get it from a strore or online some where for between $50 and $65


zeus


Mar 9, 2004, 9:53 AM
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I'm Swiss, so i have to do some advertising for the Victorinox Swiss Army Knifes... :wink:

There's a new model which does everything a climber could ever need, it's called "Rescue". It features one hand opening, arresting blade, arresting screwdriver, very good qualitiy and it's a bit bigger than the "normal" Mc Gyver style Army Knife. Very sturdy, very practical AND not too expensive. Good customer service too. Victorinox knifes are designed to be used...

here's the picture: http://www.globetrotter.de/de/shop/jpg_xl_window.php?jpg_xl=/jpg_prod_xl/v/vi04060-.jpg

it's not yet on the official Victorinox homepage. I hope for you that it's available in the US...

regards

ps: stay away from "Wenger" Swiss Army knifes (name is marked on the blade)!!! These are made for the tourists who buy them on the Jungfraujoch...


racoon


Mar 9, 2004, 11:51 AM
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spyderco all the way.

delica (lanyard w/ carabiner & pocket clip) & clip-it (built in carabiner)

don't worry too much about sharpening the spider edge. It will stay sharp for years.

Then u can get a cheap kit or find someone to sharpen it. I also carry a really cheap serade(?) 1.5" b/c it was cheap and use this on things that would damage my spyderco.(prying, etc.)

coon


Partner oldsalt


Mar 9, 2004, 12:56 PM
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Overlord,

I recently bought the Gerber Ridge at Lowes. It is unbelievably light, with the serrated edge blade stowed flat against the steel frame, externally. There is no cover. The blade locks. I removed the clip and added a short lanyard and it hangs on my haul loop, along with a tiny led light, two cordelletes, two quick links, and my chalk.


moss1956


Mar 9, 2004, 1:22 PM
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I recently got the Petzl Spatha.

It should be noted that I am not a ``knife'' person. For instance, I don't sit around opening and closing the knife. This is important as the handle is plastic and obviously after a bunch of use it is going to open more easily than when its new. The complaint I saw about it coming open by itself probably has its basis in this issue.

However, it is light. There is a big hole that I can use to rack it on a biner, and the blade is really sharp and serrated. It also opens with this big gear wheel so I could get it open with one hand if I had to.

What I am saying is that in an emergency, I think the knife would do the trick, which is why I got it. On the other hand, I hope to never use it. :)

If you intend to get the knife to use it a lot, I don't recommend this knife. However, if you just need something light that will do the trick just in case, it seems like a very reasonable choice.


reprieve


Mar 9, 2004, 3:17 PM
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I'd say go with a gerber or spyderco, both brands are quality (spyderco may be slightly higher quality). I would also reccomend getting a blade that's half-serrated. It makes the thing almost twice as useful.


lordjim


Mar 9, 2004, 3:36 PM
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I don't believe I didn't think of this before. The next time a gun and knife show is near you (if they exist near you) stop in and look at the table full of $5 knives. You're bound to find something that works for you. And if you drop it 4 pitches up you are out a $5 knife not a $125 one.

M


bukel


Mar 9, 2004, 4:13 PM
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ok Im clueless. Why would you need a knife at hand while climbing?


moss1956


Mar 9, 2004, 4:15 PM
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Self rescue


reprieve


Mar 9, 2004, 4:17 PM
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seems like it would be useful on long, multi-pitch climbs. you never know what you may run into...


lordjim


Mar 9, 2004, 4:23 PM
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ok Im clueless. Why would you need a knife at hand while climbing?

Not to sound like an a** but try cutting webbing with a "sharp" rock, or come up on to a bunch of half rotted slings clogging up a belay station. Once you try that you'll know why you want a knife.

M


superdiamonddave


Mar 9, 2004, 4:34 PM
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Spyderco Ladybug. You won't even know you're carrying it but you will be glad you did. It doesn't meet your specs though. Super tiny!


boss


Mar 9, 2004, 5:49 PM
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I would recommend a Beretta Aluminum Airlight. It fits all of your requirements and is extremely durable. It has a full aluminum body, locking blade, strong clip, and with a little cord it easily attaches to your harness.


cobra652004


Mar 9, 2004, 6:07 PM
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Check out http://www.gunks.com/index.php?pageid=187&pagenum=1&smGroup=2&smID=7&PHPSESSID=6724f5d6b30dc1ac78b53958e68f3ed1
They just did a review of knives made for climbing/similar applications.


Partner coldclimb


Mar 9, 2004, 6:44 PM
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In reply to:
Check out http://www.gunks.com/index.php?pageid=187&pagenum=1&smGroup=2&smID=7&PHPSESSID=6724f5d6b30dc1ac78b53958e68f3ed1
They just did a review of knives made for climbing/similar applications.

Thanks for the link, very cool. They even checked out my personal climbing knife, the little Schrade Simon. ;) The Kershaw Ken Onion knives are very awesome though. One of mine managed to unclip from my pocket during a hard day of playing last summer and disappeared. :cry: :cry: Wish I had the cash to buy a replacement. Those things are sweet.


bbotello


Mar 9, 2004, 7:01 PM
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I recommend a Benchmade Osborne. I've owned a bunch of different brands and I've never been as happy as I am with this one. Part of the blade is serrated, it has a clip, and it locks. This knife has been through hell and back and I don't think it'll ever break, definitely worth the money.

http://www.benchmade.com/products/product_detail.asp?model=941


overlord


Mar 24, 2004, 11:40 AM
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ok, ive got spyderco endura lightweight.

it was preety cheap (considering the quality and name, i got it for less than 80$), its light, ambidexterous and has really smooth opening and closing action with solid blade lock.

i really like it.


qwert


Apr 7, 2004, 7:33 PM
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bump

I discovered this thread recently and since im too searching for a knife, i read it with big interest.
But im wondering why nearly everyone uses folding knives.
Im having somewhat araound ten folding knives, wich i all really like, especially the swiss army ones, but all have one big disadvantage: if you want to lever with them you have to fear that you will destroy them, so im searching for a small light nonfolding knife.
Ive got some picked out, you might have a look at them?
BOKER Bud Nealy
CRKT hammond ABC
CRKT Hawk K-AT

qwert


climbian


Apr 7, 2004, 7:51 PM
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i would strongly suggest looking at other knives than the 2 made by petzl for starters 2 hands are required, it doesnt lock, wont fit on certain biners due to the angle of the bend, and the handle is made of light weight plastic so the blade feels top heavy


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