Crowell/Barker Browning knife: Collectible Chopper

Published on October 23, 2008
Duration: 15:37

This video reviews the Crowell/Barker Competition Knife by Browning, highlighting its potential as a collectible due to its unique history and presentation. While acknowledging its robust build and chopping capabilities, the reviewer emphasizes its high maintenance requirements due to the uncoated 1085C steel blade and potential rust issues under the Micarta handle. The knife is presented as a good value for its price, suitable for chopping tasks, but less ideal for rugged outdoor use without significant care.

Quick Summary

The Crowell/Barker Competition Knife by Browning is primarily considered a collectible due to its unique collaboration history and presentation. It features a 10-inch, 1085C steel blade that excels at chopping but requires high maintenance to prevent rust, especially under its riveted Micarta handles.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction & Knife Preference
  2. 00:18Crowell/Barker Competition Knife by Browning
  3. 00:30Philosophy of Use: Collectible vs. Utility
  4. 00:57Packaging and Presentation
  5. 01:14Signed Slip and Maker Background
  6. 01:48Production Knife with Added Value
  7. 02:03Overall Aesthetics and History
  8. 02:14Price and Collectible Potential
  9. 02:52Raw Steel Blade and Maintenance
  10. 03:331085C Steel Properties and Rust Risk
  11. 04:37Rust Prevention Methods (CLP, Rim Oil)
  12. 05:01Challenges in Outdoor Use
  13. 05:14Handle Construction and Moisture Issues
  14. 05:57Manufacturing Origin (Taiwan)
  15. 06:12Primary Classification: Collectible
  16. 06:21Blade Specifics and Capabilities
  17. 06:35Utility Function: Survival Knife
  18. 06:51Outstanding Chopping Performance
  19. 07:18Convex Edge and Sharpening
  20. 07:47Out-of-Box Edge Sharpness
  21. 08:04Collectible vs. Field Use Debate
  22. 08:20Size Comparison: Cold Steel Trail Master
  23. 08:32Size Comparison: Cold Steel Laredo Bowie
  24. 08:53Size Comparison: Ontario SP-10 Marine Raider
  25. 09:51Durability in Wilderness Scenarios
  26. 10:08Blade Shape and Design
  27. 10:13Sledge and Drop Point Design
  28. 10:21Unsharpened Swedge and Tip Strength
  29. 10:37Minor Imperfections (Tip Grind, Pitting)
  30. 10:52Self-Defense Role Considerations
  31. 11:15Construction: Quarter Inch Bar Stock
  32. 11:20Blade Tapering Towards Tip and Handle
  33. 11:43Tang Design
  34. 11:51Preference for Thicker Blades
  35. 12:08Laser Etched Logos
  36. 12:16Handle Design: Black Micarta
  37. 12:23Handle Comfort and Edge Radiusing
  38. 12:56Handle Length and Ergonomics
  39. 13:10Lack of Thumb Ramp and Jimping
  40. 13:17Grip Enhancement Ideas (Skateboard Tape)
  41. 13:30Lanyard Point Techniques
  42. 13:50Sheath Review
  43. 13:52Sheath Color and Carry Options
  44. 14:13Sheath Retention
  45. 14:19Sheath Quality and Construction
  46. 14:32Overall Balance and Steel Confidence
  47. 14:47Heat Treatment Expectations
  48. 14:51Future Use and Performance Predictions
  49. 15:07Potential Improvements
  50. 15:17Marketed Purpose: Competition Knife
  51. 15:25Final Thoughts and Appreciation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary purpose of the Crowell/Barker Competition Knife?

The reviewer suggests the Crowell/Barker Competition Knife is primarily a collectible due to its unique collaboration history, signed presentation slip, and overall presentation. While it possesses significant utility as a large chopper, its uncoated steel and handle construction make it high-maintenance for rugged outdoor use.

What type of steel is used in the Crowell/Barker Competition Knife and what are its implications?

The knife features a 1085C steel blade. This is a high-carbon steel that requires diligent maintenance to prevent rust, especially in humid conditions. The reviewer notes that the uncoated blade and riveted Micarta handles increase the risk of rust if moisture gets trapped.

How does the Crowell/Barker Competition Knife perform as a chopper?

With its 10-inch blade and 17.5-ounce weight, the Crowell/Barker Competition Knife is an outstanding chopper. The reviewer states it is designed to cleave wood effectively, making it suitable for tasks like shelter building and batoning.

What are the potential drawbacks of the Crowell/Barker Competition Knife for outdoor use?

The main drawbacks for outdoor use are the uncoated 1085C steel blade, which is prone to rust and requires constant maintenance, and the riveted Micarta handles, which can trap moisture and lead to rust. The handle ergonomics are also noted as potentially uncomfortable for extended use without modification.

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