Over the years I have had a few different knives, but never one of "real quality". I have already done a search through previous posts but couldn't find ones that answered my questions. I am looking for a sturdy yet small folding knife or pocket knife that can withstand the abuse of woodworking / whitling (I am currently making some walking canes). I have been using my SuperTool200, but would like to have a multi duty knife as well, that would be more ergonomical. So here goes:

1. Is the Gerber Ridge worth getting? Is it comfortable for extended use? (1-3 hrs at a time)
2. Which is better for wood working / carving, a serated/scalloped edge, or regular drop point or tanto blade? In other words, which cuts faster and easier?
3. I am looking for a knife that's $50 or less, and preferable 3.25 inches or less in blade length.

If anyone has any suggestions please respond...budget is a constraint but I know there are excellent quality knives within this price range...but would like some feedback or thoughts before purchasing one...thanks a million.

Black Ops

When I think of "whittling", I consider it something done out of necessity on the spur of the moment with the tool (knife) I always have on hand, or a pleasant way to pass the time while making something for the whimsy of the moment.

What you describe would be better left to planes, chisels, lathes, and belt sanders to get the job out of the way as quickly as possible.

Bountyhunter

www.ragweedforge.com go to the section on swedish knives( Eriksson.). Ragnar sells a small drawknife and two curved knives along with the inexpensive sheath knives and a farrier's knife that can be remade into a classic crooked knife ( used for woodworking by many northern peoples.) The classic puukko of scandinavia translates into "woodworking knife."

I agree with Chris, you'll want to go for a fixed blade, preferable a thin, scandinavian blade. Definately a plain edge blade, probable with a drop point or maybe a warncliff style blade. If i were you i'd go for one of the mora wood working fixed blades, either the 120SB or 106WS, and a mora hook (crooked) knife and Draw Knife.

Well, the 2 canes I'm making at the moment are both a way to pass the time and being done out of whimsy. Plus I'm in no real hurry to finish the items. Both are still somewhat green and I have been debarking one of them today.

I had recently trimmed our lemon tree in the backyard before the weather starts getting hot again, and came out with a 4-5 foot branch which is pretty strong and has a few curves in it. I also cut out a "volunteer citrus" (they make no fruit) that was taking up space in the backyard, and cleaned off the entire trunk. When it is turned upside down, one is putting their hand where the roots came out of the bottom, and strangely enough it is weighted almost like a baseball bat, and is very balanced. Planes and chisels? Lathes? No Way <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> I don't have the money, nor do I want the items to look too professional. Think hobbits and elves. <img src="images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" /> Plus I'm looking to hone my skills as far as building field expediant weapons and staves, cutting branches for cover and shelter. No way am I gonna carry a lathe in my BOB! <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

But thanks for the input BountyHunter. Maybe you would be able to tell me how to laquer the finished pieces? Should I wait until the wood is completely dry? I'm afraid if it dries out too much it will crack before it can be finished off. It is Lemon Wood, so should I just soak it in Lemon Oil instead? <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Black Ops

Chris,

Thank you for the link, these knives look well made and are within my price range. Have you owned any of them? Just wondering how they would hold up over time. I will definately add that link to my "Favorites"! <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Edit: Just realised I was looking at the wrong section, yes those woodworking tools do look good, and fairly cheap too. I had originally looked at the Norwegian Helle Knives section...hey it's Sunday, I'm still asleep!

Black Ops

Got one of these when they were $13 at Target. You definitely would not want to use this knife for hours at a time. Sharp enough out of the box, but the minimal handle just isn't that comfortable to me. I threw it in a drawer, haven't used it since.

Mmm...I was afraid of that. It does look cool though! I guess that's why it doubles as a money clip! HaHa! <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Have you tried the Gerber Spetre? Much more comfortable looking handle, though it runs about $100...which is out of my price range at the moment...

I have one of those. With the money clip removed it is a very light and thin knife that fits well in a small PSK.

Those scandinavian knives are excellent "work boots" tools- I wouldn't choose a $3500 one with damascus blade for working in the shop, even if it will take the abuse- Still, plenty to choose from.
Now, for your aplication, look for those with a rather heavy blade. Some are nor very well suited for rough work and will not hold well a sharp edge for long time- A pleasure to prepare a salad with them, though, over and over, without them getting any blunt.

Or, if you want a nice challenge, you may make your own with tough Finnish blades

look at www.brisa.fi- nice site, fun to explore.

YMMV....