"Why Big Knives Don't Suck" by Nutnfancy

[@godspi4609]

I love the fact that unlike almost all other KZbin based knife channels this video doesn't just hold up it outdoes the others...years later. ...and your the only one that brings up calories and that's huge I dropped my small hatchet cuz after a 16-20 mile day the knife was always easier to use and battoning fine for a knife I however don't think prying should be done with a knife but that's besides the point great video sir love all of you videos keep up the good work

[@gideonstactical]

Bad guy needs a Life Coach!!! Nutnfancy you slay me with your hilarity!

[@TheHiddenWoodsmen]

I agree with you. I am a back packer i rather bring other items then a ax. I can get all i need done with is a knife and a laplander. Thank u for the voice of the person who is walking miles with there gear on your back and not the guy who is in the woods hanging out 2 min in the woods

[@oakleyd36]

I love THE PROJECT, and never buy any outdoor gear/ knifes/firearms without seeing if there is a Nutnfancy Review first. The guy puts some serious time and thought into reviews. Thanks Nutnfancy

[@lokukinacherokee9594]

I grew up on a mountain, and our only source of heat is wood splitting. We use axe' and spliten mauls, but when I am packing it out in the woods, I carry a few small knives to play with but I take a huge blade for wood and protection. I understand that many do not prefer the larger blades, but I go no where without mine. I love my larger knives. We can't forget, intimidation worked for Mick Dundee..."That's not a knife, This is a KNIFE".

[@stevenkage4397]

Until you run into somebody who says "That is a knife, but this is a GUN!"

[@MKD.357]

I never used a large blade until I saw what you did with them Nutn. I still lean towards the saw & axe combination when I am preparing firewood. If I was in the elevation that you are I might rethink that combo, but for what I do it certainly works well for me. I find that I can process/split wood a lot faster with my camp axe then with a knife. However I do find it easier to process the kindling w/ the blade. Thanks for the great vids Nutn!

[@flyingwondercat739]

Large knives are probably more useful than a hatchet. Sure, both would be ideal if they are needed, but I think this video exists to show that you don't need both to get the job done.

[@Rakadis]

I carry a medium fixed blade and a medium axe. Serves me well. This is a good and well presented video, but my set-up is right for me here in Norway. Carry on the fight Nuttin.

[@DJSERVANT777]

finally a knife review of a guy that actually goes out in the shit! and then make review! there are to many knife reviews where guys pull knifes out of a box and make a review in their back porch in the snow(prepared preper 101), thanks for being a Tru outdoors man! thanks man!

[@DJSERVANT777]

I meen prepared mind 101 this guy is a poser. finally the real deal!

[@jumpmedic22]

Have to say, I would never want to skin my deer with a large, heavy fixed blade. Nor would I want to build a shelter with my 3" blade skinning/dressing knife. With that said, I believe that each tool ( and yes knifes are tools) has it's "best use" and place. I carry both a large heavy knife and a small hunting knife. Anyone that says only one tool is the best for every job has never spent any time doing and living in the out door world. You make perfect sense !! Also, love your dog !!!!!

[@kierankinnear5968]

i dont mind carying a bit of weight if its worthwhile weight..., i carry a small working knife, a large survival knife, and a small forest axe... plus a good quality folder in my backpack... but thats just me..., i fully believe a knife is the most important tool in the wilderness, theres very little that cant be acomplished with a good blade...

[@akeeperofoddknowledge4956]

Hey Nutn! I'm a proud, satisfied owner/ user of the RTAK II. I raved about this knife after seeing videos by you and Aaron of Gideonstactical ( gotta give credit where it's due). A very good friend bought one for me since he felt he owed me money and I denied that he did. He passed away in May of 2015, but I still have the RTAK II to always remember him by. It will certainly last longer than the money he owed me. Needless to say, this knife is very special to me.

[@roybinson6460]

A lecture told with great passion, you have convinced me to try out a BIG knife. Its a climate and weight issue, in Sweden we see the same environment as the one you are used to. Minus the great mountains, though. I am used to axes myself, bur I dont fancy to schlepp them around anymore. Thanks for a thorough video!

[@ShaunWitt]

Rtak2 man.

[@roybinson6460]

Thanks, buddy, will check it out...

[@BlueBadger2011]

Check out the Tahoma Field Knife by Top Knives. I consider it one of the best all time wilderness knives.

[@roybinson6460]

Thanks for the tip, Aaron, it looks awesome!

[@TheSuburbanExperimentalist]

You hit the nail right on the head in the first 7 minutes of the video. I really appreciate humble, experienced people that talk about thier real experiences!

[@toddklekotka3340]

I like your large knife philosophy. I love large knives. My favorite so far, is my TOPS Condor Alert. I practice a lot with it. With enough practice, I see no need for a smaller knife. I also like to bring my hatchet, that is when I go to deer camp. I agree your situation and environment dictates a lot on the tools you will want to use. I dont usually go hiking, but when I hunt, I have walked a long way from camp. I have dragged a deer long distances and it kicked my rear!

[@ArmedVegan]

I have not backpacked much but I like that Nutn takes all views into account (knife, axe, saw) and thinks scientifically of weight, distance and calories. His experience and videos are a testament of his conclusions. Size does matter. Thanks, Nutn and crew!

[@nutnfancy]

@CalcityAirsoft "I Love your attitude when it comes to haters" Every once in awhile I will address some criticisms and I will lay it on when the mood strikes. The guys that say I should be packing an axe up in the mountains, that my technique sucks, etc. get owned in the logic review that I go through here. This refuting needed to be put in official form in TNP as it drives to the heart of my big blades reviews and their POU. It was funny too...I laughed so hard I cried when I reviewed it.

[@nreedbuffalo]

When I was in scouts we were told that the BSA didn't want us to use sheathed knives. I never understood that. I like how you bend the rules. I wish I was in your troop (I'm 18 and an Eagle now by the way)

[@Biggestbruhs]

I love your dog.

[@brevardrioux]

When I watched this video, I had my heart set on an RTAK II. I got a 5160 steel version for 80 dollars and I love it. You've sold another one for Ontario.

[@paulie4x1]

Lt.Col. NutN, what'sa matter for you, you promote knives with Full Flat Grind, and use alot of WD-40, we'll when I found out how much better the Saber Grind preformed over the Full Flat Grind, I don't use as much WD-49, the Saber Grind pushes the wood apart, because of the relief area of the blade, check it out, and prove me wrong, Saber Grind's are much better for wood processing than a Full Flat Grind, hands down, Happy Holiday's Nut'N.

[@EvanN108]

Nutnfancy, I just wanted to tell you how much your videos have changed me. I love your philosophies. Your a very wise person and I believe in your POU's. I lack a lot of experience in wilderness. I have yet to do a serious backpacking trip yet I really do want to. I also want to be in the wilderness using just a backpack. I'm sadly constrained of what I can do. I've watched your trips and can't wait to finally do something of the sort. Thanks Nutnfancy!!

[@corbinmeier5582]

I thought I would settle this debate by comparing the pros and cons of a big knife versus a small axe. Big knife: Pros: Lighter; easier to carry; safer (more blade area for bite, less chance of missing); smaller learning curve; better for trail blazing; better deployment/sheath; better for last stand predator defense (cougars, bears, wolves), albeit you’re going to have a shitty day. Cons: More energy required; not as robust; less power (one handed chopping); public perception views more as weapon (think Rambo. You never know, may come across skittish campers). Small axe: Pros: Stronger (thicker steel); easier to sharpen (less blade area); can change balance of axe with choke up; better for skinning large game; can use as hammer; more powerful swings (two handed chopping); less energy expelled; viewed as a tool in public perception. Cons: Heavier to carry; slower deployment/sheath; requires more skill and concentration. So in conclusion, a big knife is used for surviving and an axe is for thriving. What I mean by that is, if I want to go into the woods as light as possible and get by, I’ll pack the big knife. If I go into the woods and don’t want to fuck around, I’ll bring the small axe. Difference here is the mentality, both are great tools, but in my opinion, to get the big knife up to the level of the small axe, it needs to be paired with a folding saw. Big knives/machetes were designed for chopping through dense vegetation. An axe is specifically designed for wood processing. Ask yourself, what are you going to use these tools for? And the answer should be fairly clear.

[@michaellr2002]

I really appreciate your in depth reviews of the rtak ii and the tenacious both are with me everyday. The rtak in my truck and the tenacious as my edc. Both have saved my life multiple times. Bought them because of your recommendation. Thanks!

[@WildOrchid9991]

I'm Sorry but dude... This Guy just ROCKS bro!!! He is Dead On about thé "internet warrior" thing too ....... I DO NOT BUY OUTDOOR GEAR W/OUT A NUTNFANCY review . Period Nutnfancy Totally reminds me of One of my scout masters when i was a young Boy Scout

[@Tiger_Zass]

Thank you for the volumes of information shared in this video. Weather or not one agrees with all of the data shared regarding these blades, by listening to the experiences you share, we can think these thing through before hand and learn some things the easy way instead of the hard way. Thanks

[@galactikvibes9482]

hahahaha "Rambo Complex" so funny,give thanks

[@codenameDaedalus]

Every time I watch one of your videos I learn something new! Today I was reminded of something that I learned awhile ago. I'm a big fan of large fixed blades, like yourself, but I honestly never owned a quality, large "wilderness steel" knife. I owned a cheap RAMBO KNIFE when I was younger, but that's it. I am reminded that certain things don't work in all places. I HAVE a great blade already, and don't need to fret about constantly changing my system. Change will come on it's own. Thanks Lt Col

[@JackKrei]

I spent 3 years in Ft Wainwright, Alaska spent out every weekend and sometimes a week on leave in the mountains camping with my wife and friends snowshoes and all carrying between 60 to 150 lbs. packs including large caliber weapons and ammo. We always carried hatchets. The snow pack down to form the base you need to chop and split if not rocks work well too. If your cold you find a way for sure. Stripped downed hatchets weigh very little. Never carried an axe. too heavy Always had many knifes on me and the others just for the survival factor. and guns cause well bears very large bears. Lots of food with high starch and calories and beer. as well as lots of fire starters. and we used big blades all the time back then.

[@MikeCharlieAlpha]

Thanks for doing this video nutnfancy! You gave some great insights into big knives. I have to watch my budget, so I appreciate your value considerations and comparison of all of the price points. I watched this video about a week ago and decided to order an Ontario SP10 Marine Raider. I received it yesterday and went to the woods today to give a test run. You were right! This is a great knife for the money!

[@raygun4468]

I love the full-tang big blades. I got my 1st Recon-tanto because of Nutnfancy. I have 3 now, 2 x AUS8A (black toughex) and a VGI san mai III version. I also have a full-tang 5160 kukhri that has a 9 inch blade / weight 876gm (kukhri house). I would be happier with these blades around a camp than any 4 inch blade folder you want to show me. I am more of an impact weapon / blade guy, they do not run out of ammo / jam. I have ASP / ESP 21 inch batons / blades and my 400gm solid silver duster (in my avatar) that is custom made. I have some other toys but ............

[@raygun4468]

www.liveleak.com/view?i=778_1406899495 Ignore the rest of the video (it was for a hater on a board)

[@raygun4468]

Ray Gun www.liveleak.com/view?i=337_1406899047 Ignore the rest of the video (it was for a hater on a board)

[@idontplayeveryday]

FYI cold steel is not full tang

[@raygun4468]

Toby dog I see youtube is still full of semantic-addicted, argumentative types who like to split hairs. Do all Cold Steel knives have a full tang? Full tang construction is an important consideration when evaluating the strength of a knife. Originally, "full tang" meant a handle in which the edges of the tang are visible all around the outside of the hilt, so that the tang is fully as wide as the knife handle. However, with the advent of "driven-on" Kraton handles, full tang has come to mean that a very substantial tang extends completely through the center of the handle right to the back of the pommel. This describes the tangs on all premium Cold Steel knives. Let us put it this way, I would put an edge on my Recon-Tanto San Mai III VG1 with silicon carbide (2500 grit) then finish it with jewelers polish / a leather strop and cut you to ribbons with it. Followed by some 'ice pick' grip stabs, with zero fear of the blade coming free of the handle. A rat tail blade IT IS NOT! Does that quantify it for you !? It has a full/substantial tang !!

[@longrider42]

And just what Cold Steel knife is not full tang, details man.

[@hammerlykins]

I like alternating...one hike I'll take a small axe along with a decent belt knife and then the next I'll take a big knife. Both are indispensable in the bush...awesome video nutn!

[@OnlyZunkin]

The only problem I see with this video is all he is demonstrating is splitting logs that have already been processed from a tree that was either cut down with an axe or a saw. It would be far more impressive if he showed us how to chop those trees down and segment them into logs using just his knife. You can certainly process even a good sized tree from standing to kindling with just an axe. I would like to see the same thing done with just a knife. That would really prove his point that large fixed blade knives can do everything an axe can but better. All I see is log splitting. I think both tools have their merits.

[@GeezerDust]

Enjoy all your videos. Informative, educational, entertaining. As far as the big knife issue, I have found for backpacking (for myself at least), carrying two knives, a large 10 in. blade for wood processing, and a smaller 3-4 in. blade for other stuff takes care of 99% of my needs. I have a nice 2 1/2 lb. hatchet that I use to carry, however that 2 1/2 lb. feels like 10 lb. after a while on the trail. Keep up the excellent videos.

[@whybecauseman]

Says efficiency, method has two people splitting a single piece of wood. If you like it, fine. However, the arguments you use suggest that the knife requires less work, which is simply not true. That's why you are criticised, a knife requires at least 3 times the effort of an axe, and yet you claim it requires less. Plus it doesn't help to call people 'basement-dwelling lying nubs' for stating basic facts.

[@weez82]

I've used an axe and a big blade from fire prep, yes splinting wood is easier with a heavy axe but its heavier by a lot. This video is mostly about backpacking. Hiking miles in the wood. You have to hike that weight in there. That heavier axe or hatchet is going to use more calories that a saw/knife combo just from the hike and you still have to fire prep. If you want to hike in a heavy axe or hatchet, more power to you. I'll stick with the saw/knife combo. Not to mention the saw/knife combo is safer, it takes very little skill and anyone can do it

[@whybecauseman]

weez82 . Having preferences is fine, no one disputes that. And no doubt it is a useful skill to practise survival situations with only a knife. However, the problem is in suggesting that a knife is anywhere near as efficient as an axe (and because nutnfancy seems to have this vendetta against axes). There is simply no comparison, and the argument of wasted calories through carrying an axe does not hold up because you end up wasting all those calories you 'saved' in the first half-hour or hour of knife hacking and pounding. Your body has to become the leverage you lose from not having an axe, and you use all those extra calories. This is demonstrated clearly in the video when they have two people working on splitting a single piece of wood. How could it possibly be more efficient when it is shown that a knife takes ten times the amount of work? And in terms of safety, this is extremely unsafe. Pounding with a huge round of wood nearly results in an injury, it is hard on the body, uses extreme amounts of calories, you would sweat like mad (hypothermia risk skyrockets), and in cold situations you are unlikely to ever process enough wood to stay warm. In all respects this is a much more dangerous method than an axe, and pounding next to someone's hand with a four pound round of wood is just stupid. It is also a misconception that an axe is that heavy. Many of these knives weigh between one and two pounds, whereas the Gransfors forest axe weighs only 2.6 pounds. The difference of a pound is nothing when already trekking in 30-40 pounds of weight (looks like he carries upwards of 70 pounds, so any arguments to save a pound on the most important winter tool would be just an excuse). And in winter conditions you very quickly enter a calorie deficit over the axe by the choice of a knife. A general purpose axe is the best choice, but if one is overly concerned with weight the small axes and hatchets are between one and two pounds, A small hatchet or tomahawk can still outperform a big knife by two to five times at the same weight. The other question is, why the obsession with splitting so much wood in the first place? If this is how you start fires in winter conditions you are wasting a huge amount of time and calories (thus rendering the calorie-saving argument irrelevant). There is no reason to be splitting so much wood unless you're trekking in a wood stove. If you know how to build a fire, and are surrounded by coniferous trees - as you should be if it is so cold - then splitting wood is a minimal concern. Dead branches and large trees are the primary materials, so you need to be able to fell trees. In a survival situation you need half a cord to a cord of wood every couple of days (perhaps every day when really cold). How are you going to get that much wood with a knife? Simple, you will not. If you are in a cold environment and are surviving with a small fire then your sleeping bag is the primary tool. The knife is just for show. The large knife or machete is best in jungle-type scenarios, and for some reason has been brought into use in winter/boreal/boreal scenarios. It seems this is largely due to KZbin and survival television shows. The axe is superior in the woods, and far superior in the cold, there's no argument apart from preference. When it comes down to efficiency though the people who say knives are better are simply making things up.

[@whybecauseman]

whybecauseman And he also carries two big knives, so he's carrying more weight than an axe. Bottom line, his argument makes no sense.

[@christophersober612]

man i absolutely love your videos and your attitude and the whole "philosophy of use" thing, its great. a lot of the gear i have ive gotten based on how ive seen you use the equipment in the field, the most recent of which being the Kelty red cloud 110 (awesome pack). i really enjoy your winter camping videos they are just awesome, im with you, winter time is probably my favorite time to get out there as well. keep up the with the great videos, i look forward to more awesomeness!

[@jamesritchie6899]

As soon as someone uses the phrase "armchair critic" you know they just mean anyone who disagrees with their silly opinions. No, big knives don't suck. But those who buy and use them almost always do.

[@vassal11]

as a serious comment, I hear alot of anger and resentment in your tone while addressing the "haters." I'm sure they are many and loud, but PLEASE don't let them drag you to them - directly or INDIRECTLY. Don't even mention them! I love the info, the gear, the philosophy,,NOT your private business and enemy talk. Thanks for what you do.

[@insidiousengineering]

WTF??? Is this a big blade review or a tantrum about everyone else?

[@loytaylor75]

thats what i was thinking! kinda defensive.

[@nate_6163]

I love the small blades, but when I saw this video it change my view of knives forever. When I found this video I bought the rtak II and I love it. Thank you nutnfancy for the best knife reviews ever!

[@grog1122]

I have almost come full circle on the big vs small knife issue. I started small, went big, now I've gone back to small knife and a trail hawk. Good video.

[@donjoe4155]

I would recommend the gramsfors bruks mini hatchet. It weighs less then most knives of that size and from my own experiences it will out preform a lot of them for any chopping needs but not spliting I agree you should use a knife for that.

[@ariesj84]

Gotta say, Nutnfancy has a good point here. I live in the Midwest and a good, large knife comes in very handy; especially in the humid summers. Anything that minimizes calorie expenditure is a godsend. In Oklahoma summers, where wind direction quickly becomes a big factor in choosing a campsite (unless you want to wake up in a puddle of sweat), nobody wants to try to crash out after swinging an axe all evening. I personally use either an Ontario OKC Kukri or a 5150 steel blade made by a local smith that is similar in size & shape to a BK7. Completely different POU for each, but they both split & chop very well. Always a worthy companion on my hip or in my pack.

[@eatapeach2677]

dude....really really appreciate the videos. just ordered an Esee Junglas

[@42StevoStyle]

Nut ...I have been watching you a couple years and I love your brutal honesty...keepin it real..I use an axe a lot at HOME..or... CAMPING..but hiking in the woods where you carry all your supplies in ..you are right....

[@tinyphantazma]

Great vid again. I carry a large blade survaval knife when im hiking. I live in Finland and I mostly go to the national parks for my hikes. They have excellent services, good network of cabins and camp sites, and most have firewood on site. (Restocked once a year). Some of the cabins have emergency phones/radios and heating with stoves or fire places. Sort of the city slickers survival option. I usually go once or twice a year for a week or so. Mainly easy hikes, 15-25km per day.

[@robed5277]

I love knives (mainly for the 2nd kind of cool), but do use them when I go camping. I am lucky where I go camping as most woods where I go almost always has stumps where trees have been cut so normally use them as chopping blocks (also in Great Britain don't really get any snow), but because of you in the places where there is no stumps have started batoning. Thanks nutnfancy. Keep up the great work. Love the vids.

[@CashFirearms]

I spent most of my life between 8,000-14,000ft in CO and love your winter footage, makes me home sick everytime! Spending more than a month at a time in the woods I've come to appreciate a large fixed blade for nearly everything I do. Love how you brought up calorie expenditure, overlooked so often and never a second thought for one of the internet warriors. I've got a Cold Steel Katana machete coming and can't wait to beat the tar out of it, gonna try for a review despite my cheap camera.

[@HughBLongAuthor]

Awesome video! Based on your reviews, I purchased both a large knife (Becker BK-9) and an axe (Gransfors a Bruks Small Forest Axe), so I can do my own evaluation. Keep these awesome videos coming, brother!

[@famas626]

Love the big blades. i do alot of wood processing with my Cold Steel Gurkha Kukri and its just a BEAST. Thanks so much again nutn for your take on things and great recommendations.

[@schlooonginator]

I think you are about the best source for reviews because you are knowledgable and walk the talk! You explain all your points very clearly and its just nice to know that someone who knows their shit is talking.

[@littlebear6497]

Love that you went camping with scouts dude. I'm a scout working on eagle right now, and It would be awesome if we had a guy involved in our area with the same experience and knowledge. Thanks for helping out.

[@druid189189]

I've always been an advocate of carrying multiple blades during my pack/hiking trips. Big fan of large blades for their intended uses but I also carry a[n] [old] large blade Case folder for game processing in the field. My teacher [father] always taught me to carry the folder in a pocket but pack the larger one[s]. We never carried an axe, we kept it at the cabin. Remember though, this teaching was 30+ years ago and Kydex/ConcealX [plastic] sheaths were unheard of. Falling on a large blade and risking it cutting through a leather sheath and into your leg was a huge concern out in the wild....however now-a-days, Kydex/ConcealX makes safety a better belt option.

[@outsidetheboxthinker1223]

One of the MOST helpful videos on backpacking knives out there...would def like to see one on backpacking firearms. Thanks NutnFancy

[@zaktaisho]

I have been watching your videos for a little over a year now, and this is the first time I've commented on one. Just like you, I have tried many different systems in the wilderness and I have come to the same conclusion. Big blades rule. I love my ESEE Junglas, it works great here deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains where I live. Keep up the good work man.

[@paulliane49]

I have one and I love it. I have it on my 500xt it is my tool when trail riding and camping. Great steel and easy to sharpen. It can do all I need to do while camping. Great tool !!!

[@christophervinson2947]

I'll admit I hate your EDC videos and almost swore off your videos but this video has made me a fan and you earned your self a subscriber well done

[@roguefurion]

I agree whole heartedly. I just got back from a camping trip with a group of friends and they said what do you need that cold steel recon tanto for? And they laughed at me. By the end of the trip they understood. Rock on Nutn

[@jct19122]

I've been following your presentations for some time now and am happy that you made this particular video. My favorite big knife is one I found at a gun show which was probably a kit knife but to mr it had something beautiful about it. 10" damascus drop point w/ a false edge half way down the dull side. Brass hilt/guard and bone scales for grips. I got it for 60 bucks because there was a spot on the blade near the hilt where the weld did not take when they forged the blank for the knife. Th

[@IIDASHII]

I totally agree with your philosophy here. Used to do a lot of camping in the Adirondack high peaks (high is relative ;) ), and we carried the same stuff. A couple BIG knives, and a collapsible bow saw. Generally less energy and potential for serious injury if properly used, though I can say from experience that a bow saw can REALLY get you if you are not careful! My left index finger still bears the jagged scar from when my saw jumped and sliced me open when I was a kid. A lesson learned.

[@ZyPhReX]

This was worth every minute. Thanks for taking the time doing this. Its definitely extremely helpful. Thx again!

[@nutnfancy]

@brad6479 Fun comment, thanks. Yes they are very capable. If you pair it with light camp knife you have your bases covered. When real work needs to get done, going smaller makes your life tougher up there.

[@DominiDiscord]

The high snow is about the only environment that I would definitely want to take a large knife. I'm on the middle east coast, so going out is a walk in the park compared to 8 ft of snow. I don't split wood while I'm camping. I might take a bow saw, but I rarely use them because I collect dead fall even in snow since the snow it's a huge issue here. As far as axes go, my favorite splitting axe is a Jersey bit axe head. It also excels in chopping if you keep it plenty sharp. It has a nice broad edge. Council tool makes a good one.

[@cheff2389]

Glad this works for you. I prefer to baton a small camp axe. I use a cheap Fiskers that was purchased from Lowes. It is comperable in wieght to these large blade knives 28oz.

[@austindurgan3246]

Bought the rtak 2, the rat 1, and the streamlight stylus all off your recommendation and the all are even better in person love all your vids nutnfancy thanks for the great and may I add from my experience 100% true reviews keep doing whatever it is that makes u do these vids and thank you for your service to our country and on top of that everyone that watches your vids that is now better equipped Than before due to your time and effort that you put into these vids.

[@seantnper881]

I have gotten out and done this with my ka-bar marine fighting knife and I would not recommend it for chopping... there's not enough weight to get it done. it works but it transfers a lot of energy to your hands. it works OK for slitting though. and after I got enough wood for a fire using that knife my hands and arms were pretty tired... I've since moved to the RTAK II witch chops very well!

[@knifeofsteel]

dude your awesome and right. im a big believer in large fix blade knife. axe got there place a small knife got a place but a large knife goes all around and great videos man keep it up

[@brad6479]

I used to not really like big blades until I started watching your vids and saw everything you do with them. Now I wouldn't be caught without one. I keep 1 in my car, one in my wife's car, & an extra in my backpack. My buds & I have a camping trip planned & they think I'm crazy for loving the big blades now. I can't wait to show them what a REAL blade will do.

[@dtownknives]

You make very good points in this video. I am a small knife fan though, admitedly I dont thump as hard through wood as you do. Most of that comes from the east coast boyscout leave no trace philosophy, we mostly use fallen sticks and such for our fires and dont need to cut up or split that many logs except when we are car camping and have saws and splitting mauls. Also the scouts dont like big fixed blades for some stupid reason. And I can EDC a small fixed blade. But whatever works for you.

[@tacticalfreedomfighter7777]

You should try ESEE over RAT nutn, I find them to be much better performers. I also suggest the esee 5 as it is a tank being a 1/4 in thick. Its also smaller than the junglas or the rat version as well. Thx

[@toddklekotka3340]

I always carry my large knife. I do everything with it. If I need to fall a 4-8 inch tree, I will use my hatchet. The knife can do it, and thats using a Tops Condor Alert, which has a 9 inch blade and weighs 26 oz. My hatchet weighs 2 1/2 lbs. Its not a comfortable to carry but it does come in handy. No tool is better than the other at everything, but rather the users skill level and knowledge to use it effectively, safely, and comfortably.

[@Nordicrelaxationn]

the large fixed blade is great for overall woodworking i think i chop down small trees, split wood some carving and i sometimes do food prep with my rat 7 from ontario great knife comming up to almost a year of use now and im really happy with it , thanks for doing what you are doing you are just simply awsome!

[@Tbrunscheon]

AWESOME video. Really hits the mark on a line of thinking I have followed for a long time. I personally carry a Ka-Bar ZK War. Great chopper. Deep recurve in the belly. Only cost me $45 or so. I like to carry a light Tomahawk as well, but thats more a redundancy deal. Thanks for everything.

[@OutdoorEnthusiest]

Portaged canoe up to a little lake in west canadian mountains to moderate elevation, about 100kms from nearest civilization. Just two of us, and brought a full axe and a hatchet. Got caught in a blizzard, would have been better off with a kurkri and saw combo. That Gen II SP50 or trailmaster looks good too.Wish I'd watched this vid first. Swinging that axe just exhausts your reserves, definately looking to go saw with big knife combo on the next adventure. Thanks Nutnfancy

[@Kparris7]

@LokiEvryn In my use it really depends on how much force you can put through it. If you're at home you'll probably be using a thick, purpose built wedge since you can just whip out a sledge and get it in one shot. A thicker wedge splits quicker because it separates the wood faster, but requires a lot of force. Using a machete will work but (might get bent) you'll probably have to baton it all the way through the log to get it to split.

[@redwhiteblue7831]

Great knives and they do work for splitting wood. I bought the RTAK11 still holding up well... if you can't afford to buy any of these knives check out a Schrade knife... I have one and have beat the hell out of it, and it is still kicking ass... lifetime warranty as well. My buddy has a Buck hoodlum and it has broke twice already.

[@depravedone]

The title was changed since this morning, it used to be "Why Big Knives Suck". I just assumed there was a bit of sarcasm in the title. I do love to see people flip out based on a title without having watched the video though. Another keeper, Nutn.

[@Macsheen1]

Don't know how I missed this vid. I've always been pro big blade. Thanks for all your work. I may not always agree, but I always appreciate your view.

[@nutnfancy]

@varolachner They provide serious value for sure and the current Ontario Spec Plus Gen IIs have quality beyond their price levels when you understand the steel quality. Congrats, thanks for watching.

[@berettajim2932]

wow man, wicked video. very comprehensive and bring the knowledge,experience and facts needed to make your point convincing. very well done

[@1337lVl4574]

the dogs face! so cute... his eyes are saying "please take me home now I'm freeeeezing"

[@marodriguezsr]

Thanks for all your great vids, reviews, advise and opinions. My boys and I carry @ least one big knife. I went to a 10" blade Condor Kumunga and my two boys each carry their Cold Steel Trail Master. We each carry other knives, a small saw and a hatchet. Our part of the country we have no water and a lot of Mesquite (thats hard wood) we carry @least a gallon of H2O each. We will not go out in the wild without a big knife!!!!!!!!! Keep up the good work & keep enjoying the great out of doors bro.

[@pesarirooni62]

Nutn, I totally agree with you. I've tried carrying the weight like you do and it's just HARD. it's really really hard. it's no joke.

[@jackitfast]

I carry a Trail Master for about 12 years now & used an old big bowie knife before that. Your right large knife works the easiest period. I always have a small knife like a swiss army knife & use an ax or kukri or tomahawk. But what ever combo I carry I always have a large knife on my side. I'm 55 and been hunting since I was 6 years old.

[@N8morob]

Great vid. I always carry a machete my dad got for me in new guinea. It works great for wood processing. I've always loved the big fixed blades ever since I saw Rambo as a kid. My high school buddies and I would take these camping trips to try and survive off the land by hunting or fishing. Making wilderness shelters to sleep in. A big blade was very handy to have on those trips. My mountain man friend always used a tomahawk for wood work which worked well too. Thanks for the videos

[@jordub]

Had the KA-BAR BK7 down in Arches. , First outing and I LOVE this knife!! So useful for fire making, and gave me some peace of mind with it in my tent. One note, Park Ranger "Joe" was checking our camp site reservation while I had my BK7 on my hip after starting the fire. He told me "there's no place for that knife in here." I didn't want to debate with the old man, but told him what I used it for (fire making) and he just walked off. I was a bit frustrated at the time, but what-ev.

[@gregp701]

Being pretty new to the survivalist scene, I first learned wood craft from watching Nutn's videos. I have to say that the techniques and tools he advocates work as advertised. I've had nothing but success splitting wood and fire making with large fixed blade knives and the sawvivor. It's quick, efficient, and to me seems safer than swinging an ax. Keep up the great work Nutnfancy!

[@Sleepyjackable]

While disagree with your stance on guns, Nutnfancy, I do enjoy your gear reviews. You have some great insight into gear that could help in a wilderness survival situation not to mention recreational backpacking! Thank you for the hard work you put into your videos.

[@BuffaloWarrior7]

SRK + Sawviver XL seems like a good option for shorter hikes in less extreme conditions. Regardless of what your using cutting across the grain is easiest with a small light saw in my opinion. Never been in any life or death situations just casual bonfires/camp outs so don't have much experience but I've used a wood maul, done a some battoning, and of course a saw. And as for splitting smaller logs battoning ftw but for cross cuts the cost, limited skill set, and cost of a saw makes it ideal.

[@deancounts5620]

I am a long time SAR veteran and a outdoor survival trainer, I would never go into the wilderness without a "Big Knife" you are absolutely correct Nutnfancy.

[@polanmi]

Ive been using a KA Bar cutlass. It cost around $60 and worth every bit of it. It clears an area for a campsite chopping down small brush and grass. Used like a machete and an axe cutting down trees and vines. I even used it as a skillet and a plate. It cuts chunks of meat on a grill like a butcher knife making a nice meat pile. And it feels like a small sword when I wield it. The best part is it’s a perfect size to strap on a pack and is very accessible;-)

[@justgonnastay]

DUUUUUUUDE!!! I got three minutes in and went to start organizing my winter gear! Awesome compilation of adventure clips. Thank you for that alone! Now to watch the rest of the video...

[@AussieMark909]

The intimidation factor of a large blade was demonstrated in my part of the world just this week. A baker working at 0430 was confronted in his store by two men with knives demanding cash. He told them the money was in back of the store and he'd get it. Instead he returned with two very large knives, seems he did not feel inclined to give up his hard earned money to these low lifes. He did not have to use the blades, the bad guys got out of there in a hurry!

[@nagere1]

Nut'n - Another great episode of the TNP. Don't let these negative folks get you down, and cause you to be negative as well. I look forward to your upbeat tone, and generally happy demeanor. Bitterness can be contagious,and it affected you on this vid. Thanks for the education!

[@j2112c]

Keep up the good work nutnfancy, entertaining as always and this video has some cool links for the other videos. Cheers! Your videos just motivate me to chuck the gear in the car and take a couple of days out on the hills. Rock on mate. My Cold Steel San Mai was pricey like you say, but what a knife, its for life!

[@SilentSnake1209]

Hey Nutnfancy, i am a fan large fixed blades and have many myself. my dad has one that i have never seen you make a review with. its called the british mod survival knife. its a 7 inch blade and its 1/4 in thick and full tang. it comes with a dull edge but once you sharpen it and get a great edge its a chopping and batoning beast. it does great.. if you can get one i think you would like it

[@thegadgetguy2367]

I recently bought one because of this video, love this knife built many fires

[@GabeMacDonnell]

A lot of the love of 4" "survival" knives originates with Mors Kochanski & Ray Mears. Both are incredible experts and rely on smaller knives. However, both men usually have access to saws and axes as well, and advocate their use. The simple fact is that if you are looking for a 1-tool option, (which will always be a compromise,) a large knife is the most versatile choice. If i can bring a 3/4 Axe or longer saw, i much prefer a 4" Scandi knife, but it would never be a 1- tool choice for me.

[@nutnfancy]

@Mainsail1975au It's cool just to own these big blades for collection too; totally valid reason to have them.

[@longrider42]

My father has been using an axe to split firewood for 40+ years. He gets his axes from the local hardware store, I think he's on his third axe. As for getting the head stuck, that is all due to the edge angle grind. A flat grind on a axe is the most useful 28 to 30 degree's. I was glad to see you talk about saws, I always carry a small folding saw, and a tomahawk. I have just recently bought the Condor Golok, I believe this will be the most useful blade I own. Take a look at it. As for your knives, they are all great for self defense. I have many friends in the military who carry big knives like those, into combat zones. Any ways, I started out wondering if you knew what you where talking about, and you seem to be very knowledgable. Keep up the good work.