"Knives of Alaska: Elk Hunter Greatness" by Nutnfancy

Published on October 28, 2012
Duration: 11:35

This expert review of the Knives of Alaska Elk Hunter (model 161FG) highlights its exceptional performance as a hunting and skinning blade for large game. The reviewer, Nutnfancy, praises its D2 steel for superior edge retention, ergonomic design with double finger choils for safety, and lightweight carry. While the traditional leather sheath has drawbacks, the knife's overall quality, fit, and finish at its price point make it a highly recommended wilderness tool.

Quick Summary

The Knives of Alaska Elk Hunter (161FG) is a highly capable fixed blade knife, praised for its D2 steel's exceptional edge retention and ergonomic design with a double finger choil for safety during skinning. It functions effectively as both a dedicated hunting/skinning tool and a versatile camp knife, though its traditional leather sheath has some functional drawbacks.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Introduction & Packaging
  2. 00:55Elk Hunter Model & Initial Impressions
  3. 01:44Philosophy of Use: Hunting & Skinning
  4. 02:06Ergonomics & Safety Features
  5. 03:12Gimping & Grip Options
  6. 03:50Extended Philosophy of Use: Woods & Camp
  7. 04:47Weight & Carry Convenience
  8. 05:30Steel: D2 & Edge Retention
  9. 06:03Blade Grind & Finish
  10. 06:30Sharpening Experience
  11. 07:12Semi-Stainless Nature of D2
  12. 07:35Handle Construction & Material
  13. 08:35Sheath: Vegetable Tanned Leather
  14. 09:19Sheath Wishlist
  15. 09:56Competitive Offerings & Price
  16. 10:43Overall Capability & Recommendation

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Knives of Alaska Elk Hunter a good hunting knife?

The Elk Hunter excels as a hunting knife due to its D2 steel blade, which provides exceptional edge retention for processing large game. Its ergonomic design, including a double finger choil, ensures safety and control during skinning tasks.

What are the key features of the D2 steel used in the Elk Hunter?

The D2 steel in the Elk Hunter offers superior wear resistance and edge retention, making it ideal for demanding tasks like skinning. It is a semi-stainless steel, meaning it requires proper maintenance to prevent rust, especially after exposure to blood or moisture.

How does the Knives of Alaska Elk Hunter perform as a camp knife?

Despite its primary design for hunting, the Elk Hunter is also a capable camp knife. Its 3.25-inch blade is suitable for food preparation and light tasks such as processing small amounts of firewood, making it a versatile tool for the outdoors.

What are the pros and cons of the included leather sheath?

The included sheath is made of traditional vegetable-tanned leather and is aesthetically pleasing. However, it has disadvantages such as not draining water effectively and the potential to loosen over time, leading the reviewer to desire a more modern Kydex or polymer option.

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