My top Five Knife Brands

I guess you could say these are my favorite brands. It's based on what i like to collect and what I like to carry and use. Several things went to the decision making. But the factors were my interest in the brand, the affordability of the brand and my likelihood to actually use the brand. As you can expect myfocus is on traditional pattern pattern slip joints.

[@ranik8890]

Great informative material . learned a lot, thank you , and thank you for not being a knife snob, "a knife needs to cut" is something that's been forgotten by many collectors

[@jimmyj4811]

I want to thank you for your tireless efforts to share your knife knowledge! What about doing a video regarding choosing a knife size and pattern for EDC pocket carry (for example a shape and size that won't shift horizontally in your jeans)? Also, a video recommending ways to store and organize your collection? And perhaps a video relating to which blade shapes you find the most useful, and why you like the patterns and sizes that you do? Again, I really enjoy your productions. Thanks, and keep up the good work!

[@TylerSnyder305]

My favorites in order are Buck ( US only) Case Victorinox Camillus ( US only ) Schrade ( US only ) I've currently got 13 from Buck 7 from Case 7 from Victorinox 3 from Camillus 4 from Schrade For me the 2 layer 84mm is max for me with Victorinox because I like smaller easy carry ones. Out of the 13 Case knives I've had over the years I have not had a single one I would send back. With RR I have tried them a few times just to see what everyone was talking about and could not get a good example. Buck is my absolute favorite company and I'm just talking the company itself, they care about their knives their history and their customers. I only own one GEC which I absolutely love, and it's a $35 H20 belt knife. I could never bring myself to pay what the rest of their lineup costs, nor do I like the idea of chasing availability and model runs.

[@bdh3949]

Thanks for making me think hard about this Tobias. I will say I too had trouble with #5 until I used math, lol. So: 1. GEC, I have several for a collection and several I edc. 2. Case, same. 3. Victorinox, same, I love restoring them to like almost new & have all sizes. 4. Queen/Schatt & Morgan, they made some good HD traditional especially their work knives. 5. CRKT, because I have history with them, I own: An M16-10kz that was carried by my stepdaughter in the military in Korea - I then EDC’d it for 6 years 2 modern folders (Shenanigan & Cruiser) I used as a backcountry guide for several years 2 modern folders that I EDC’d after retiring (Squid, Pazoda) 5 Classic Traditional slipjoints made in 2010 (their only run of traditionals, in burnt stag bone: Trapper, Mini Trapper, Congress, Whittler, Stockman). They also made a large and small Toothpick that I would love to add to the others. Currently I EDC the CRKT mini Trapper rotated with mini trappers from Case, GEC, S&M, & RR.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

BD H, it’s funny how there’s four that are almost no brainers but then number five becomes problematic. I’d bet money a year from now my top five brands will change. Thanks for watching and thanks for giving your top five! Always like to hear what others like/dislike, especially when it is a reasoned response.

[@boatbuilding2706]

Everyone is in to steel now. No excuses, only steel. And then function, flicking usability....love them all

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Spend $300 for the latest super steel that will be become yesterday's super steel in six months just so you cut paper and brag about it on KZbin. Okay, a little cynical. I know for some people the better steel actually does help with what they're doing but for the other 90-95%...

[@specterm2149]

Great video I enjoyed it very much

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Specter m glad you enjoyed. Thanks for watching!

[@arctodussimus6198]

Some day I would really like to sit down and talk Knives with you. My Camillus “U.S.M.C.” scout knife is stamped 1992 on the blade. And I got one of the last Spyderco Mariners with the Stainless Steel handle scales in 1994. I used it so much, it isn’t serrated any more.

[@jydymyyyr9630]

Very much enjoyed viewing your favorites... thanks for sharing.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Thanks. I need to revisit and see if anything changeD

[@garethbaus5471]

I don't really have a top five list, but my favorite brands are Opinel, Case, and Rough Rider in roughly that order.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I really need to give Opinel a closer look.

[@terrillschneider3778]

This type of video is what brought me to your channel and I was hooked Thanks

[@fossilimprint2954]

I like that you say why you like a brand.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Thanks. How can you pick a favorite and not give a reason?

[@LarryReynolds591]

Watching your videos and starting my own collection, I'm really a fan of Case knives. I agree it's the best US made you get for the money. I hope to build my collection over the next 10 years!

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Case catches a lot of flak these days in the Knife community. But the bottom line is they are the tradtional pattern knives that almost every other traditionals are compared to. if you're going to collect Traditional knives you at least need to known something about Case knives.

[@BigRedEDC]

Very interesting Top 5 Tobias! Very cool that RR made it in! Spyderco was a bit of a surprise! Thanks for sharing some fantastic looking knives!

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

BigRedEDC, I’m guessing when I revisit this in a year or so it could very well change. It’s easy to pick your top two or three but then things get a little murky. Among things I was looking at but didn’t mention was one defunct USA brand, one current USA Brand, one off shore production, one made in another country, and then one other knife. I’ve got close to 200 brands represented in my collection so plenty to choose from.

[@BigRedEDC]

Yeah...mine changes from time to time for sure!

[@tleek]

I bought a couple of GEC knives back between 2012-2014. They were nice and I sold them for way too cheap on forums, but I wasn’t as blown away by the quality as some people were. The fit and finish was great but the grinds were pretty rough and I had to reprofile them. I miss my bullet jack in buffalo horn with a big fat spear point though.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

My experience with GEC has been mixed at best. I have about nine of them. There are a few others I would like to have but I feel the prices have reached a ridiculous level and the scarcity is also problematic. There are other knives that are truly scarce that are actually rich in history that I would rather seek out compared to GEC. I'm happy with the few I have and can live the rest of life without ever purchasing another GEC.

[@RafaelSantos-vg3jd]

I really enjoyed your top five. It's a shame what's happen to great knife manufacturers like Camillus and Schrade. Although I have seen that Camillus/Acme offers a few fixed blades made in the USA. I think they are made by Tops but am not sure. I collect them all. In my opinion Case makes better knives today than most of the old ones I own, and I know a lot of collectors may disagree but fit/finish are really up there. I love the Russlock. Rough Riders are a great bargain, glad to see you added them to your five. I have a few Victorinox and Wenger and they get used a lot. My collection lately has leaned toward Buck, Boker, Hen & Rooster, RR, and Case.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Rafael S., It is a shame that so many old, great companies are no longer around. But there are plenty of great new options and several new companies out there. Sounds like you’ve got a great selection yourself in Buck, Boker H&R, and Case. Hen & Rooster is proof the Jim Frost can put out quality knives.

[@RafaelSantos-vg3jd]

Well the recent H&R's I have seen made in Spain have been really bad quality. I bought two folders and both had to be returned due to gaps and really bad grinds. But their fixed blades are well made. I would only recommend the traditional folders made in Solingen and not Spain.

[@mr.breeze9473]

I'm not a big collector, about 35 knives. I like Buck USA, Schrade's USA, rough rider, Victorinox, and Case. I too will not pay high prices for a good knife. And there are a lot of great low cost knives out there.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Mr. Breeze, great choices. I’m with you on cost. I can’t see spending hundreds of dollars for a knife when there are several great knives at a more affordable price. And cost is a major factor in how I chose my favorite knives.

[@mdunawaym]

I just bought a Spyderco Tenacious today with a giftcard I got. I also have a Boker Castle Barlow. The handle is made from the oak beams of an ancient German castle.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

The more I sue my Spyderco the more I like it. I have a nice Boker Bartender knife with old wine barrel staves for the covers. Boker is really inventive with its wood handles. I like that about the company.

[@kevinbradleygardeningandou9767]

Good Choices, like them all. My most carried knives, which translates to my favorite brands are: Puma ( Pathfinder ), Victorinox( Clasic and Walker ), Opinel ( No8 ), Spyderco ( Delica ), and Ontario knives. ( Rat 1 and 2 ). The Puma is a bit like your Spyderco, it was a one off purchase, German made knife, used for 30 years and worn out, it is honorably retired but I could never afford or justify replacing it. I collect Victorinox but nothing specific, I want/like them all. LOL Like your channel, good information, thank you. :-)

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I really need to give Opinel another look. Hard to go wrong with a Victorinox. They are fun to collect!

[@peterpuleo2904]

The Spyderco Delica is still an excellent EDC, but I think the price now is a bit high for the model. It is slim, light, sturdy, adequate for light and medium tasks. It is a "no nonsense" type EDC.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Peter Puleo, my problem with the Delia is the choil on the blade. But then the Para 2 and Para 3 are similar to the Delica but have a finger choil similar to the Dragon Fly. In the end, I went for lower cost and grabbed a Byrd Meadowlark instead. LOL!

[@peterpuleo2904]

Good compromise. Whatever floats your boat !

[@r1ckgr1m3s8]

Honestly I just bought some Chinese bucks from Walmart and it is my favorite knife right now very sharp comfortable in the hand and it just works

[@garydhartley]

I truly enjoy your videos and partially blame you for my knife collecting addiction. On my limited budget I have cut myself back and limited myself to 3 brands/patterns to collect; 1) all things Schrade. Old Timer, Uncle Henry, Imperial, Ulster, Craftsman, S. Walden ect. 2) Swiss Army Knives Victorinox or Wenger primarily my favirite 58mm are my Midnight Mini Champs. 3) Sunfish/Elephant toes. I first saw an Elephant Toenail knife on one of your videos and I couldn't believe that not only had I have never seen one, I have never even heard of one. Now I Have fallen in love with that pattern in all house names Finally, my number 1 favorite brand without hesitation is Old Timer. I've tried Rough Rider/ Ryder knives following your recommendation and I mean no disrespect to you when I say that I am not nearly as impressed with them as you are with that line of knives. Other than the Toenail knives, I wont buy another RR knife.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

To be honest, I've become somewhat disenchanted with the newer Rough Ryders. Some are real dogs. For instance, I find the older Rough Rider Canoes without the halfstops better than the newer ones with a half stop. I also like their older scout knife better than the Kamp King. I' need to give Schrade another look. There is definitely something about Sunfish/Elephant Toenails.

[@davids9549]

GEC is top of the tree as far as I'm concerned, so thanks for giving it a mention! I daresay Queen is/was in the same league but as they're out of business now I'm unlikely to find out - that Queen you showed is stunning. Victorinox? I'm sure you're right, but they make me feel I'm still in school (where everyone had one). I'd put Opinel in there too.

[@peterfreidel7721]

I collected GEC before they became so popular! The quality of workmanship and materials, is what attracted me.

[@acid6urns]

@@peterfreidel7721and now they’re absolutely ridiculously priced and use artificial scarcity as their business model.

[@powerplay4real174]

1/ Cold Steel 2/ Ontario Knife Company 3/ BUCK 4/ Ka-Bar 5/ Condor Tool & Knife 6/ Mtech USA 7/ Gerber 8/ Kershaw. but I also really like Rough Rider & Klein Tool knives. and favorite style of knife is Bowie or Clip Point blade and Kukri or Khukuri of verious makers, especially from Nepal.

[@powerplay4real174]

I own one Spyderco and have one more on the way , both the Chinese made versions ,but I find other Spyderco knives to be a bit costly at the monet ,so I prefer Cold Steel because of the quality lock up they product.

[@jesterskull38]

Excellent picks, thanks for the chat

[@briand563]

nice knives! I really need to get a scout knife or two. I love rough ryders. probably the most i own of one brand. i really liked that rr sod buster looking work knife you showed 👍

[@Lumpy_Peter]

"If Victorinox is not somebody's favourite, then I don't know what you are doing." Amen! For me: Victorinox, Morakniv, Opinel and GEC. If I only could own 1 knife, it would be Victorinox Sportsman without a shadow of a doubt. I do own 1 Case, which is excellent, but I have been hearing quality is inconsistent. I have 2 Rough Riders, one is utter junk and other one is meh, OK I guess for the price (keep in mind that those cost more than double before they reach customer in Europe). And I do have 1 Spyderco, but I find that broad blade very impractical.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I'll be revisiting this very soon but you can rest assured that Victorinox will still be among my favorite brands. Love them.

[@BaaSicStuff]

Love your thoughts on Case.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Thanks. Case has its issues but I still like the company. I just choose wisely!

[@BaaSicStuff]

Tobias Gibson gave you a shout-out on one of my videos a way back, it’s the recent Schrade video

[@Dmhlcmb]

5)Tuna Valley 4)Schatt & Morgan 3)Case (pre 1978) 2)Queen City 1)Great Eastern +honorable mention: Rough Ryder😂 I know, but I’ve learned so much from RR. Patterns I like, how to re-peen a joint, re-finish bolsters, cut easy open and nail divets, swap out blades and dye bone. For the price I never mind destroying one to learn a new skill or discover a pattern I like.

[@hitchpost5822]

Tobias I really enjoy your videos if I didn't say that all ready I also appreciate you responding to My comments and questions. That doesn't seem to be a common practice by many channels.

[@jenniferbauman4802]

Good video. God bless. From Glenn CATT in Massachusetts.

[@kylec166]

That's a cool knife case rust lock neat

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I will try to make it to the premiere to answer questions and comments.

[@blueeyeswhitedragon9839]

I am a bit embarrassed to say, but I might include a Buck...I own the 110 from 30 years ago, but due to weight, it is only taken camping on occasion. But the new "light" models, and the Buck 112 pro light in micarta with S30v (Bos heat treat)... that has become my "Lanny's Clip" budget style & is in my pocket daily. I'm sure the Buck 110 crowd would want "recognition" in their lists. PS :- my Buck 112 pro lite (micarta/S30v) has no thumb studs, uses a nail nick...very clean looking blade.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Sharp Knife, I’ve got a Buck Fillet and a Buck Bait Knife that is in my fishing tackle. Buck isn’t known for its fishing knives but they should be!

[@Dmhlcmb]

Tobias, I could never justify high knife prices either until I happened to buy a GEC in 2012. It was $90 and I didn’t shop fora knife for months after that. About four years later I sold it on eBay for $560 after a bidding war out of my control. I wasn’t price gouging, I just got lucky. I used that money to buy a schatt and Morgan and 2 more GECs. I would say I’m still swapping my way through that $560 and keeping the profits in knives I like. As well as you care for your knives you could do the same. Buy one and put it away for 2 or 3 years and watch how much it sells for on eBay. It’s Case in fast forward.

[@knifecharlatan8912]

I'm with you on case and victorinox. I also am in love with a spyderco manix2 and I'll have to put benchmade way up there. I got a benchmade bailout that knocked my spyderco from the pocket

[@hitchpost5822]

I definitely agree on Victorinox and Camillus but as far as collecting I like scout/ utility/ camping knives. But I am not Sure that having a lot of a particular brand should determine favorites? I have a couple Benchmade because of there axis lock. I have a couple spyderco because of there serrated blades and H-1 steel. I have a Schrade Walden American officer knife with a beer can piercer that is the best SAK style knife I have Ever seen. I think you pick your five favorite knives from five different brands to determine five best brands. But that is how I would go at it. By the way is Winchester actually a brand aren't there knives made by someone else like modern Remington knives I think were made by Camillus or Buck ? Unlike the early Remington's which I believe were actually made by Remington

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Hitch Post, you have point about Winchester. They were made by Queen. I’m not sure who is making them now. As for scout knives, that’s a good chunk of my collection which means I’ve got quite a few knives made by Ulster, Imperial, Colonial, Utica, etc. you can collect scout knives without these brands! I primarily collect fishing knives, large Toothpicks, and scout pattern knives. And no doubt that had a major influence on my choices. Thanks for watching. I really appreciate your feedback!

[@raymondwilliams2609]

I noticed you addressed the Schrade: Imperial brand, Tobias. Personally I've found them to be faultless, and that's the reason I keep buying them. They look really good and any imperfections can be overlooked, especially if I go right back to the early 70s and the knives I have from back then. They were just simple pocket knives you could actually pick up from your local newsagents! I have one from back then, plus other knives from back in the 70s, never seen a drop of oil and they are still rust free! They don't make 'em like that anymore. 😢

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Raymond Williams, I do like imperial as well as Colonial and I’ve got quite a few of both. Between the two, I think Imperial was better. You can feel and see better quality when comparing the imperial Matterhorn collection to the Colonial Swiss Master Series. And when you consider all of the Imperial Scout Knives, it’s hard to collect BSA knives and not have an appreciation for imperial. The variety among their knives is amazing!

[@isaacs_knives_and_knowledge]

Great picks. I too just own a single Great Eastern. It's a great knife. However cost and availability are huge issues. They all sell out in minutes after being posted for sale. Do you own any of the Rough Ryder knives in their T10 Carbon steel?

[@abarkcanoe]

Really happy to find this channel. I'll be hanging around! If you have a Rough Ryder A Stroke of Luck canoe or whittler word love to see your u do a video like the 5" toothpick.

[@peterpuleo2904]

Nice nostalgia here with these knives. Congratulations on your collection and enduring interest. Great final tribute to Spyderco, but it is not really a "slipjoint" because it has a back lock.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Peter Puleo, you are correct about the Spyderco not being a slipjoint. But the lock back (as well as the liner lock) is old school technology pre-dating the current “modern folders.” But no doubt, the Spyderco adapted the back lock for a modern folder.

[@Tracy81258]

I actually LIKE the new version of the Camilus “demo knife”. It has a MUCH better reamer/punch than the older models, and the blades are much easier to get out, with far less danger to ones thumbnails. They’re also producing the new “official” Boy Scout knives, and they’re actually a darned great little knife for the price.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Tracy81258, this is new to me! I’ll need to check them out . Thank you! I’ve got a couple of the Acme United Camillus knives and for the most part I’ve been happy with them. I have recent Chines Made Boy Scout knives stamped China/Stainless and those are excellent knives. I did a video about them. Pretty sure these were made by Taylor Brands but nobody is talking about them. Off to the Boy Scout Store!

[@michaelmartin4883]

Respect,my favorite knife is a early 70s no.11 camillus amazing blade....

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Camillus was just a great company. Affordable, well made knives.

[@rmoraespinto]

GEC, S&M, LIONSTEEL, BOKER and ROUGH RYDER. All slip joint knives. I like the fixed blades by Lionsteel, and Boker

[@jackdillon4467]

Great top 5! I LOVE Rough Ryder and I wish also that they made more scouts and more toothpicks!

[@chrisosh9574]

I think Rough Rider are amazing value for money and they seem to be improving with each new series they bring out. I use the large carbon stockman and the carbon sowbelly stockman a lot, the T10 steel is a really good steel for work and being an old geezer, I grew up with carbon steel knives so I don't have the issues a lot of younger people have about rusting. SAKs are also a must have, I use the Farmer and the 111mm Outrider. My only other favourite in slip joints is Ruike, I have the large L 11B and the San ren mu original WA 711 with the 2 3/4 blade.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

chris osh, my Outrider goes on ever fishing trip and any hike I take. Won’t go in the woods without it. A fantastic knife! Rough Ryders are just all around great. Low price, decent quality, and so many choices. Thanks for watching. I really appreciate your thoughts!

[@timvest8141]

Great video. You seem to have a very solid top 4 and for my #5 it would probably be a Schrade variant of some sort, Old Timer or Uncle Henry.

[@myimorata7678]

You aren't kidding about GEC/Northfield. Love mine. Bought about six of them back when I could comfortably afford them. Now I'm retired and there is no way I can buy one now. Case are good knives at a comfortable price point. Best value, as you mentioned, is Rough Ryder. Nice video TG!👍

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I need to revisit this video. Chances are my opinion probably won't change much!

[@jdnotariano]

My top 5 value brands: Rough Ryder, Ganzo, Sanrenmu, TwoSun… 5th place is a tie between Kershaw, Buck, Ontario, and Victorinox.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

That's a lot of brands in the tie! Thanks, and thanks for dropping by!

[@UKLegalCarryKnives]

Great selection! I'll have to grab a Camillus & a Case to try them out as well!

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Most contemporary Camillus (Acme United) knives are made in China or Taiwan with a small number made in USA. Almost all pre-2007 Camillus are made in USA. Camillus also made knives for a variety of other knife companies (depeniding on pattern) including Buck, Case, Sears, Klein Tools, etc. This is why they were known as the "knife makers knife maker!" They were also a chief supplier of knives to the U.S. Military which might be what killed them. While it was a lucrative contract, the profit margin was razor thin! Finding the older unused, mint, USA made Camillus knives is getting trickier even in the United States as they have been out of business for 12 years! As for Case, my bet is you will find similar quality European made knives for a better price in the UK. Mercury and Maserin come to mind.

[@UKLegalCarryKnives]

@@KnifeChatswithTobias very much appreciated good sir! I'll look into them as well, I know Slick Slicers has been enjoying his Maserin!

[@tommytruth7595]

Please do a video showing how you store those 600 knives. I don't have nearly that many and storage is a problem.

[@Prometheus1111]

Wonderful picks, oddly likely it would be the same for me even down to Spyderco, I have the Tuff and it in my opinion is just as tough as a coffin nail and I like the ergonomics and forward cant of the "barongesque" blade. Really starting to dig the Rough Ryders and getting back into Case, I have a beauty coming soon I plan on sharing.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Spyderco remains one of my favorite brands. I don't own many of them unless you consider the multiple Dragonflies. I'm not sure what it is that draws me to Spyderco. I know part of it is the story of the company but I think part of it is there was a practicality to what they were doing with their designs. Yes, they have strayed off the path from time to time but they have not forgotten where they started.

[@Rascal77s]

Not exactly traditional but Twosun makes excellent quality slipjoints at very affordable prices. Most of their knives are framelock but they make quite a few interesting slipjoints. You might want to check them out on eBay.

[@peterpuleo2904]

I really like that tortoiseshell sod-buster. It is classy, and even locks. What's not to like?

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

It is truly a beauty. My favorite sodbusters as well as my tortoiseshells. I guess that's why I keeping pulling it out

[@peterpuleo2904]

It is hard to find it nowadays with the liner lock feature.

[@ramblers69]

Great video and top 5 picks, :)

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Thanks, buddy and thanks for stopping by!

[@michaeldickerson873]

Heh Tobias. I have a question on a Camille’s knife that was a presentation knife with a big fixed blade, polished guard and a fairly bulky stacked acrylic (maybe) handle in the Red, white and blue. Ever heard of such a knife. As said it might have been customized as a one-off for presentation. Also I have a folder with the notch for cutting parachute cord. Not sure of the value of each.

[@GlockNinja]

take a look at the Native model by Spyderco. I am considering that as my EDC.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

If I didn't have the Para 3 I'd probably get the Native. Definitely more left friendly.

[@BladeObssession]

For me I would have to say my favorite brand is Cold Steel and Mora. I own more of them than anything else. BTW if you've never tried a Spyderco tenacious you're missing out

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I've got a Dragonfly and a Para3. I actually prefer to carry and use the Dragonfly. When I get a chance, I'll give a Tenacious a look over. Not sure I will buy it however. One of my favorite things on Spydercos is the forward choil. What I will say is Spyderco makes great knives with options for just about everyone!

[@terrillschneider3778]

Another fave

[@dtdtm231]

Hi, Buck knives are USA made and are a collector favorite. Surprised you don't have a few and are not high on the list. Schrader Stockman (pre China) is also high quality. With and Wesson knives were also high quality. The S&W Blackie Collins knives are timeless. The S&W 6060 folder is arguable as good or better than the Buck 110 or Schrade 250t.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Buck has 95% of it knives made in the US, so says their literature. However the Fine print now reads Made in the USA from US and Foreign products. They have had their sheaths made in Mexico for sometime. Almost all of their traditional slip joints are currently made in China. Now with that said, my Bait knife is a USA made Buck. My fillet knife is also a USA made Buck. I think the reason I don't have more Bucks is because of the Buck 110. It's a fine knife and put it Buck on the map but it is not a pattern I'm crazy about. For the weight, I'd rather just carry a traditional fixed blade. The only True Buck 110 I own was given to me. And I will be the first to say, the knife is extremely capable and the build quality is also exceptional. I also own a Buck 119. It used to be my brother in laws. He was an avid hunter and carried the Buck 119 or a Ka-Bar. Both were and are excellent knives. I can 100% understand why Buck fans are extremely loyal to the company.

[@MrRebus777]

I really had a time back in 95 to 05 when Smokey Mt. knife works where selling all the Camilus and Camilus made knives for cheap. Some of them where seconds. Now that I 've been thinking about it, I'm wondering if that was just a big clearance of inventory before they sold the company. I was really sorry to hear it when both Camilus and Shrade suddenly where gone.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

It may very well have been that. US knife companies were really struggling at that time.

[@jjcahill8934]

I'm sure that was a very tough decision; at least the final 2 choices. I find the majority of my favorite brands are US companies that no longer exist. Camillus is certainly in there as well as Robeson and Cattaraugus. Thanks for sharing from your wonderful collection!

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

JJ Cahill, it’s tough looking at all the old brands. I was trying to mix it up. I could easily have gone with five brands that are no longer around. Sounds like a thought for a future episode.

[@jjcahill8934]

@@KnifeChatswithTobias That would be interesting, too!

[@menacewithaknife4045]

I was recently stockman shopping and saw some Bear and son knives that looked good, have you tried any of those?

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I've got a few Bear and Son Knives. I really need to talk about them.

[@blueeyeswhitedragon9839]

I use all of my knives (out of embarrassment, I won't say how many in my collection) and for the most part still have 70% -80% of every knife bought in the past 30-35 years, BUT I will not include any "one hit wonders* " or expensive collector knives in my top 5 list. A knife is a tool, and one can collect old wood saws or axes, but they were users at one time, but a knife that is meant to be fondled and stored in a safe... that is not in the running for my top 5. ( I 'm not even sure if you can call such a safe queen a knife, it maybe should be called "art" or museum pieces) (* no hand mades, or knives released by companies where the company went out of business shortly thereafter) My most expensive knife is worth about $2000.00 and I carry it on occasion, and if a knife is so rare or expensive that I won't use it to cut out a dandelion...then it can't be in my top list.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Sharp Knife, I agree with you. If it cost so much that I’m afraid to use it, then I don’t buy it! I do have knives that I don’t use but they tend to be historically important in my opinion. And in most cases have been used in the past and I have used them lightly but They aren’t EDCs.

[@blueeyeswhitedragon9839]

@@KnifeChatswithTobias :- Agreed !

[@bdh3949]

Just hope that you don't get traffic stopped, or otherwise, in some states whereby a officer that recognizes such a knife WILL confiscate it. I have no experience with this myself but Yikes!

[@blueeyeswhitedragon9839]

@@bdh3949 :- Always follow the traffic regulations, look clean cut, gentlemanly, inconspicuous. And don't break any laws! That was my mantra when riding my motorcycle, and once when I put a too noisy exhaust system on my bike, I was always paranoid of being pulled over. The "Grey Man" theory.

[@UR_Excluded]

No Buck? Not a single 110? 44 bucks for a legend.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Not really crazy about the 110. I know it has its loyal followers and there is no denying its capabilities. Just not the knife for me. I really do need to do a video on the 5 in. LB...and I need to give the Buck 110 the credit it deserves. I actually consider it the father of just about every modern folding knife with a locking blade. I think it is fair that it is milestone in knife development. It wasn't the first locking folding hunter but it definitely popularized and updated the pattern.

[@peterpuleo2904]

Just curious. How old were you when you first started collecting knives? I started a few years before I retired! Better late than never, I guess.

[@StephenWorth]

I'm exactly the same as you, but instead of Spiderco, I would choose Buck. The stockman is my favorite pattern and Buck's stockman is great. And of course the 110, which I much prefer to modern style knives, even if it is bigger and heavier. I just don't like the looks of "scary" "sci-fi" knives. I have a Buck stockman in my watch pocket every day.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Good choice! Many of the old buck traditional knives were out sourced to Camillus and Utica but still made to Buck standards. What I like most about Buck knives is they are for the most part, no nonsense knives that get stuff done. What I like most about Buck knife fans, is for the most part they defend Buck knives but they don't feel a need to put down other brands while doing it! My most used Buck Knives are a Clearwater Bait Knife and Mr. Crappie Fillet knife. Both made in USA. The Bait knife is my go to camp knife. Despite its looks, the thing is just about indestructible! I've never been a big fan of the 110 but I give Buck props for reinventing the Folding Hunter. It is an American Icon!

[@jaybewan5447]

Tops Esee Benchmade Mora Western - pre 84 We all have different tastes and different top 5 list

[@sameeralazawee7524]

I wish you all the best >>>>>>> Thank you .

[@mauricefrancis4078]

Hi, I wanted to know if you can send me a list of the knife manufacturers . Thanks.

[@kjgas6945]

As many videos as I have seen on case I think they're true Sharp is from what most people say is a version of 420 HC with a nice heat treat! And their CV is something like 1080 to 1095! Well that and two dollars will get you a cup of coffee LOL thank you for the video! And yes I do realize how old the videos LOL! PS I loved Clem cadiddlehopper, I'm black and white TV, when I was a kid! And now you know my age!

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Case used to use 1095 CV and then went to 1086CV. This was verified by folks at Case. Their Tru-Sharp went through many iterations but Case and others have verified that it is indeed a 420HC similar to Buck's 420HC. What is also of interest is Queen and Schatt & Morgan also used 420HC for their stainless unless otherwise noted. Thanks for dropping by and taking the time to look and this old one. I really need to revisit my top five brands.

[@kjgas6945]

@@KnifeChatswithTobias cool thank you sir

[@kjgas6945]

@@KnifeChatswithTobias is 1086 better or worse I really do not know. The old ones used to cut like the Dickens!

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

@@kjgas6945 ,it has less carbon in the steel which means 1086 will be slightly tougher ( softer) and less prone to chipping. However, 1095 is a harder steel with more carbon will hold a better edge with less chance of the edge rolling. This is the theory if you push the steel to extreme limits. I think most people will see little difference between the two steels for most day to day jobs. The amount of chrome vanadium added to the two steels and the heat treatment would also play an important part in edge retention, strength, and durability.

[@kjgas6945]

@@KnifeChatswithTobias thank you sir

[@terrybest8973]

ihave a queen tooth pick a tiny one with genuine stag that cost me 135 bucks it is a inch and a half long i gotit for my wife lol lol very high priced but i know she loves it yes my wife collects knives and vintage daisy bb guns and air rifles like i do and our son to lol lollove your videos my brother cool stuff bud

[@terrybest8973]

ilove all the sod busters coolknives the eye brand german sod busters are very nice knives bud

[@propblast82nd]

Has your top 5 brands changed at all ?

[@kylec166]

Love cold steel knifes and swiss army knifes

[@jimmyj4811]

What is the best way to contact you regarding a video suggestion?

[@melvintanner5300]

I have steel Warriors what's wrong with steel Warrior

[@dennishein2812]

To some of us poor folks $20 can be awful hard to come by. Case is way too expensive. In my opinion they are going after the collectors that want every style and finish. I like collecting using knives. Can’t afford a new knife very often any more but every once in a while so I go for the inexpensive ones. My wife hasn’t been able to add to her collections either. 440 A ain’t great but look at all the 3crs and 5crs out their. I’ve seen ones that are 420 j2. Many just advertise stainless steel or high carbon stainless steel. Old Timer used to make some really good knives. When I stopped buying case knives I went to Old Timer and loved them. Fixed or folder they took and held a good edge. Don’t know about the new ones. I bought a woodsman a few years ago in 7cr but I don’t hunt anymore so I don’t know if I could clean, split the breast bone and skin 4 deer before sharpening. I can’t compare them as I had to sell most of my knives 30 yrs ago (divorce) and then I became disabled so it’s been slow to get new blades. That new woodsman did com razor sharp. I don’t care for most of the Victornox or Spydercos.

[@MrRebus777]

I nominate Boker for no. 5 position. German and Chinese

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I really need to buy more Bokers. They've never let me down!

[@onementality9781]

Who else 😬 when he hits the knives together?

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I'll try not to do it on camera. Somebody might have a weak heart!

[@rockymountainlockpicker9606]

GEC, schatt &Morgan, buck, bark river, frost

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I like how you went from GEC to Frost! There is absolutely nothing wrong with having a favorite top quality brand and a budget brand within your top five brands!

[@doctoruttley]

1. Spyderco 2. Böker 3. Victorinox 4. Rough Rider 5. ?🤷🏻‍♂️

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I do believe the hardest one to to choose in number 5! Great selections!

[@2371Anita]

Top 5? Rough ryder Case Great eastern cutlery Schrade old timer ?

[@jamieryall8341]

I believe Boker has 3 levels of quality & seem to cover all types of knives.

[@stevepenney2073]

Victorinox-opinel-mora-rough ryder-boker

[@pauljosephbuggle3722]

Try Joker Knives from Spain

[@justmike2944]

1 . Victorinox .2 Kershaw 3 Mercator .4 Buck .5 Schrade All affordable edc knives .

[@terrybest8973]

i never liked the turtle shell knives just something about them but still kinda cool

[@1OFGODSOWN]

I am not a fan of Swiss Army knives.I like a Traditional One or Two bladed knife.I’d much rather have a good multi tool than any Swiss Army knife.For me a CASE XX is my Favorite and they always will be.I still have my very first pocket knife that I got New and it’s a 1972 Trapper.It’s still in great condition.I don’t need or want Any Chinese knives.👍👏❤️🇺🇸

[@kelamuni]

Case's steel is very close to a good 420 HC.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Yep. I've mentioned this in numerous other videos. They do a good job with it but the current TruSharp is a 420Hc similar to Buck.

[@jimbo3214]

Why would price determine your list? They are either good or not.

[@terrybest8973]

yes i understand about to much money for a knife im a stay at home dad so yeh i make money off of building custom knives and restoring vintage daisy bb guns and i do leather work to

[@savoeungkep8506]

VALOR #175 LBX ? JAPAN HOBO made handle bone. So old and rusty except the big spoon and fork. It doesnt comes apart. 11 attachments.... It is not practical to use

[@Eliel7230]

Spider co ?

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Spyderco.

[@Bluenkight]

HAHA.. Case Sodbuster is DIRT cheap..LOL

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

LOL

[@kelamuni]

Queen quality dropped significantly.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Agreed. There was a drop near the end of Servotronics, and then again when Daniels Family took over. To me, these were somewhat minor but then I don't own a lot of older Queens to compare this change to. The real drop was when it went from an actual brand to just a Trademark owned by SMKW. At that point it just became another $15-$20 knife made in China or a Clone of a USA Bear & Son and not an actual Queen knife. I've bought a couple of the Chinese made Queen and they are excellent examples of Rough Ryders but are nothing like an actual Queen knife out of Titusville.

[@s.e.hebert7307]

Very punny - the sodbuster is dirt cheap LOL

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

LOL!