Bark River STS Blades by Nutnfancy

Published on April 19, 2013
Duration: 21:12

This review focuses on the Bark River STS series of fixed blade knives, particularly the STS-8, STS-5, and STS-4. The presenter, Nutnfancy, discusses their construction in 154CM steel, their intended uses as wilderness or tactical blades, and their unique features like convex grinds and handle materials. He also touches on modifications and the collectible nature of these limited production knives.

Quick Summary

The Bark River STS series knives, including the STS-8, STS-5, and STS-4, are constructed from 154CM stainless steel, known for its rust resistance. While robust, this steel can nick or chip under hard use. The knives feature a convex grind, but handle scales may require modification for improved comfort during strenuous tasks.

Chapters

  1. 00:09Introduction to Knife Guys & Steel Knowledge
  2. 00:43Massive 154CM Steel Slab - STS-8
  3. 01:15Bark River STS-8 Fixed Blade - Wilderness Knife
  4. 01:37The STS Series: STS-8, STS-5, STS-4
  5. 02:17STS Series Meaning & Philosophy of Use
  6. 03:35Weights and Sizes: STS-8 vs. STS-4
  7. 04:27Handle Discussion & STS-4 Versatility
  8. 05:30STS-8 for Chopping Logs
  9. 06:04Collectibility of Bark River Knives
  10. 06:25STS-5 Coloration and Sheath
  11. 07:01154CM Steel vs. Carbon Steels
  12. 08:11Blade Shape & Sharpening Difficulty
  13. 09:09154CM Steel: Old Style vs. CPM
  14. 09:37154CM Steel Limitations: Nicks & Chips
  15. 10:18Comparison: SR-101 vs. 154CM
  16. 11:17Unsharpened Swedge: Pros and Cons
  17. 12:09Tactical Blade Design: Wicked Tip
  18. 12:31STS-4 Zombie Killer Coloration
  19. 13:11STS Knife Aesthetics: Color & Grind
  20. 14:04Handle Negative: Sharp Transitions
  21. 14:47Handle Modification: Dremel Work
  22. 15:37Traction Issues with Polished Micarta
  23. 16:42Sheath Review: Kydex Excellence
  24. 17:10STS-8 Sheath Fit
  25. 18:08Durability and Maintenance of 154CM
  26. 19:10Skateboard Tape for Traction
  27. 20:03Collectibility and Value of STS Knives
  28. 20:22Overall STS Series Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What steel is used in the Bark River STS series knives?

The Bark River STS series knives, including the STS-8, STS-5, and STS-4, are primarily constructed from 154CM stainless steel. This steel is known for its good balance of edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for various outdoor and tactical applications.

What are the main differences between the Bark River STS-8 and STS-5 knives?

The STS-8 is presented as a larger wilderness knife with a thicker blade (0.27 inches) designed for heavy-duty tasks like chopping and splitting. The STS-5 is described as a more tactical blade, though it's noted as being potentially heavy for that role, and comes in various handle colorations.

Are the handle scales on Bark River STS knives comfortable for hard use?

The reviewer notes that the handle scales on the Bark River STS series can have sharp transitions, which may cause discomfort during hard use. However, since they are attached with screws, users can modify them by sanding or reshaping to improve ergonomics and comfort.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of 154CM steel in a large fixed blade knife?

154CM steel offers good rust resistance, making it ideal for wet environments. However, it is not as tough as some carbon steels and can be prone to nicks, bends, or chips under extreme stress, such as striking rocks while batoning wood. It holds an edge adequately but may require careful use.

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