I know this topic has been beaten to death, and probably rightfully so, but I'd like the peanut gallery's input (preferably if you've used it!). I'm in the market for an outdoors knife (general camping, mainly). I already carry a Benchmade folder that's going no where, and I'd like to compliment it with a sturdy fixed blade. For the sake of keeping the thread under control, I'm considering the following knives... please keep comments aimed at these. Thanks!

I already have:
-Full size Ka-bar
-5" Ka-bar
-Sog Seal Pup
-USN Pilot knife

The 5" is so far, my "preferred." But... I'd like something better. I'll probably sell the above to finance the next. I promise, it's coincidence that the prices and blade profile are all similar! In the running:

-Rat-5
http://www.buymilspec.com/8627.html
- SOG Northwest Ranger
http://www.absoluteknives.com/cgi-bin/commerce.cgi?preadd=action&key=S24
- Benchmade 10502
http://benchmade.com/products/product_detail.aspx?model=10502

So folks... what guidance? Just to nip some comments in the bud, I can't afford the RSK-3 (and actually, don't really like the design), so that's already out - sorry Mr. Ritter!

I was going to say "go get something from Chris Reeve", but I looked at your price range, so no go

If you're looking at the Ontario rat knives, consider real RAT knives (RAT Cutlery Co.). I have an RC-4 on order I'm anxiously awaiting after much research. Randall was the designer of the Ontario knives, but split off from the company, and is now fighting with Ontario over the name. In any case, the RC's are better knives, and supported by an ironclad no questions asked warranty.

I remember reading that somewhere. Thanks for the reminder!

I like the Fallkniven F1.

Hey there.

The Fallkniven S1 Forest Knife seems to fit all of your criteria except for price, but if you can save up another ~$50 its worth it. I really enjoy mine in the kitchen and on the trail and I know I can "trust it with my life" as Doug always says. If price is indeed a deal breaker you may want to try out a few of the Mora knives. The craftsman tri-flex seems to have the thickest blade however the classic red handled utility knife is great too.

Good luck on the decision. Its a tough one!

Cheers,
Logan.

Similar to the Fallkniven Forest knife is the Cold Steel SRK.
Forget the various incarnations of steels with the same secrecy of Col Sander's seasoning recipe or stabbing Buicks.
It's a decent knife (if you don't mind epoxy finish gumming up your diamond plates) and comes with a decent sheath.
I passed mine on to a nephew when I upgraded to Fallkniven.
Depending on make and condition, your present knives should realise enough cash to upgrade beyond your price point.
You can make a onetoime posting in the Campfire Forum of what you have and are asking.

Ditto! You won't go wrong with a F-1!

Ranger RD6, now being made by Ontario. Just got one recently, great rugged blade.

http://www.chestnutridgeknifeshop.com/ca...3eaa556d84b35ad

I own a Rant, 10502. I think it's a great value.

It's sort of like the two Cold Steel knives often mentioned, the Master Hunter and the SRK. But it's made by Benchmade.

The only "fault" I might mention is that the swedge on the back results in a somewhat smaller area on which you can baton -- it that's even a consideration for you.

Bear