View Full Version : BCNW-O1 or Skookum Bush Tool?
Hi all,
I'm on to go to choice between this two knives, they seems (I have read a lot about them!) both really effordable and good tools
BCNW-O1 http://shop.bushcraftnorthwest.com/product.sc?productId=27
http://img39.imageshack.us/img39/5786/bcnw01.jpg (http://img39.imageshack.us/i/bcnw01.jpg/)
Skookum BT http://www.skookumbushtool.com/
http://img121.imageshack.us/img121/2813/skookumbushtool.jpg (http://img121.imageshack.us/i/skookumbushtool.jpg/)
as far as I know BCNW-01 is made just in O1 steel, while Skookum is made in O1, A2 or CPM 3V (this last steel would be my choice probably).
Cost is not a big problem, the gap is 70USD or so, not a world of difference.
What will be your choice between them? And why?
Thanks in advance, regards Alfredo
Of the two, I would go for the Skookum Bush Tool. I have both knives and they are both extremely good tools. However, the SBT is a 3mm blade whereas the BCNW is 4mm - I prefer the narrower guage of blade. I also found that the bamboo slabs on the BCNW became a little wobbly after a while. This wasn't a huge problem - and one easily sorted by Ben Orford, who rehandled the knife with blue liners and olive ash as well as making another sheath for it. I have found that the blade shape of the SBT to be more versatile and the fact that you get a choice of steels is also persuasive. Rod made one for me out of S30V - absolutely superb! Both my SBTs have been my main users now for a number of years and they have never let me down. The BCNW is a good, sturdy knife and the scalloped bits on the handle are surprisingly useful. In many ways, you are spoilt for choice here and it will come down to which you like the look of better (never thought I'd ever say that!).
So, for me, SBT. Why? Because it is a beautifully thought out blade, superbly made that is delightfull to use in all cutting situations. I suppose the only real down side is that you might have to wait a little while before you get yours delivered!
I've been trying to contact Rod via the email address on his website but no response. Anyone know if he is still making the SBT?
Siberianfury
09-08-2010, 12:09
get a Northwest, they are absaloutly cracking knives, ive modded mine to make it perfect for me, had Bernie G replace the Scales and Duncan Re do the Grinds to 22deg, its the best knife i own. its still bloody good without mods though, very sturdy and capable knife.
http://i207.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/siberianfury/greyfeildwoods029.jpg
http://i207.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/siberianfury/greyfeildwoods026.jpg
marcusleftthesite
09-08-2010, 12:40
Bushtool would be my choice.Robevs73 has a cracker for sale at the moment.
http://www.bushcraftuk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=59864
Hedgehog
09-08-2010, 17:03
Hmmm, after reading the above I'd lean towards the SBT 'off the shelf' (if you can wait) simply because of the two BCNWs referenced here one needed re-handling (any more details on why the scales came loose?) & the other has been modded.
Siberianfury
09-08-2010, 17:06
Hmmm, after reading the above I'd lean towards the SBT 'off the shelf' (if you can wait) simply because of the two BCNWs referenced here one needed re-handling (any more details on why the scales came loose?) & the other has been modded.
the origional scales on mine where great, solid and durable, i just hated the look, so i pimped them.
Hedgehog
09-08-2010, 17:28
the origional scales on mine where great, solid and durable, i just hated the look, so i pimped them.
Sure thing.
You did get the bevel re-ground though? I understand this was just out of personal preference & not any fault in the original design - I'd likely do a similar thing as I find 4mm with a single bevel a little chunky for this size of blade.
Not trying to rustle any hedges here, I think they both look to be well designed & useful tools as they come.
Siberianfury
09-08-2010, 17:39
Sure thing.
You did get the bevel re-ground though? I understand this was just out of personal preference & not any fault in the original design - I'd likely do a similar thing as I find 4mm with a single bevel a little chunky for this size of blade.
Not trying to rustle any hedges here, I think they both look to be well designed & useful tools as they come.
yeah i got the bevels done, they where origionaly 28deg, same as the woodlore, i prefer them a bit thinner so i got duncan to do them at 22deg, much better
yeah i got the bevels done, they where origionaly 28deg, same as the woodlore, i prefer them a bit thinner so i got duncan to do them at 22deg, much better
While you had the scales off, you coulda tried some different steel while you were at it. :D
Siberianfury
09-08-2010, 18:11
While you had the scales off, you coulda tried some different steel while you were at it. :D
LMAO, yeah its not realy the same knife anymore, but it was a good template
I'm sure they're both great knives. I've not owned either, so couldn't really comment too much.
I suspect at the end of the day, it'll come down to what you prefer the look of, although the butt plate on the SBT would probably sway me a bit.
Chris the Cat
09-08-2010, 18:30
SBT, hands down.
Apart from a Dave Budd 'Greenman Pro' ( 3mm ) the SBT is the best bushcraft type knife I have ever used.
BCNW is a damn fine knife tho.
Rod is a real gent, altho. you could have a bit of a wait .
My O1 SBT is very good but for me the A2 just edges it.
My best.
Chris.
Hedgehog
09-08-2010, 18:51
While you had the scales off, you coulda tried some different steel while you were at it. :D
:lmao:
I've had this axe for 60 years, its had three new handles & two new heads. They just don't make 'em like they used to eh!
rapidboy
09-08-2010, 18:59
BCNW-O1 would be my choice, having handled a few skookum's i really don't see what all the fuss is about.
robevs73
09-08-2010, 19:43
I was told at the moot that Rods waiting list is 2years. mines 3 months and £100 less.
xavierdoc
09-08-2010, 19:47
I love my SBT in 3mm CPM3V; my default bushcraft knife. The wait is long these days, though.
Can't compare it to the other knife as I've never had one.
rapidboy
09-08-2010, 20:08
I was told at the moot that Rods waiting list is 2years. mines 3 months and £100 less.
Ahh but does yours come with the ugliest sheath ever made ? :)
Paganwolf
09-08-2010, 20:09
bush tool, or you could get the other one and completely change the whole knife its that good ;)
Paganwolf
09-08-2010, 20:13
Ive just cried ive laughed so much PMSL!!!! cheers Josh lol ;)
how about a a woody style blade with a SBT style handle, i have one and it's great
robevs73
09-08-2010, 21:07
Ahh but does yours come with the ugliest sheath ever made ? :)
yes it is an ugly sheath, I do them with either a leather, kydex or leather kydex mix.
If your going to get an original SBT get it in 3V . I have one in A2 and 3v great knives but I am not a big fan of micro bevels, thats why my grinds are shorter and zero ground.
here ya go.
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii109/vulcan2000_photo/123.jpg
rapidboy
09-08-2010, 21:33
Along with one of Mr Hull's creations :)
The BCNW looks a very comfy handle. Probably make one in 3mm O1 and it'll be spot on I reckon.
The BCNW looks a very comfy handle. Probably make one in 3mm O1 and it'll be spot on I reckon.
Do you think 3.2mm will be ok? :D
The ugliest sheath ever made comes with the Spyderco Bushcrafter. The BCNW is not a vast amount better. Rod's sheath for the Skookum is quirky but works extremely well.
Not sure you will be able to get a SBT. I emailed an order over a year and a half ago, no reply, no notice, no knife. No changes to the website since then either. Not sure there is a SBT any more.
I have two of robevs73's excellent Bushtool model and they are an excellent knife and a great value. I like the grind, the 3mm blade and the sheath is also well done. Rob is both a fine knifemaker and a truly nice person to deal with. I highly recommend his work.
I also have a BCNW-01 knife, bought it recently to try out on a course. Mike at BCNW was really helpful and rushed me the knife so I would have it in time. I had the knife in plenty of time and I have had time to work with the knife a bit. The course is later this month, so it will get a proper workout then. I like the BCNW knife, it is sturdy, fits the hand well and super sharp. I am waiting to see the 2011 model which is probably going to be 3mm, which I may prefer for the lighter weight.
As far as the laminated bamboo, well it is not a pretty wood like spalted maple or curly birch but it is strong, has a good feel in the hand and reminds me of my Chouinard-Frost 70cm ice-axe with a laminated bamboo shaft that I used for many years of mountaineering in the Pacific Northwest, Alaska and the Alps. I appreciate the bamboo more because of the classic axe!
As for a recommendation, I think one of Rob's Bushtools or a BCNW-01 would each serve you well, tough choice to pick only one. Cheers!
Both look nice but this looks as if it should be a contender; the Bushfinger
http://www.bushcraftuk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=59915&highlight=Bushfinger
how about a a woody style blade with a SBT style handle, i have one and it's great
does anybody actually use the welded butt cap and the lashing holes ( mine has the holes but no welded cap )
http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o109/FGYT/Sharps/DPKFamtrio.jpg
they do seem to ave a very pointy point
the other a stubby but strong point
so i guess it really depends on your style an the way you use a knife wether its lots of digging and prying or lots of fine detail carving and pickin your toenails :D
why not get a blank of both to handle and see if you like either that would cost less than buying one then you could sell them or you will havea user toll the waiting list thins out a bit if you got for the Tool
ATB
Duncan
5.10leader
10-08-2010, 10:34
As far as the laminated bamboo, well it is not a pretty wood like spalted maple or curly birch but it is strong, has a good feel in the hand and reminds me of my Chouinard-Frost 70cm ice-axe with a laminated bamboo shaft that I used for many years of mountaineering in the Pacific Northwest, Alaska and the Alps. I appreciate the bamboo more because of the classic axe!
I agree with your thoughts about laminated bamboo. I also used a Choinard-Frost axe cut down to 45cm for many years, in fact I still have it. I found the shaft to be lighter and more durable than the standard hickory and would have no hesitation in using this for a knife handle. I agree that laminated bamboo is not as attractive as many available options but imo it stands up well against "standard" micarta.
SouthernCross
10-08-2010, 11:49
G'day Duncan
...
http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o109/FGYT/Sharps/DPKFamtrio.jpg
I like the look of these.
Did you make them?
Kind regards
Mick
Chris the Cat
10-08-2010, 13:26
Yes Mick, they are Duncans work.
My best.
Chris.
I agree with your thoughts about laminated bamboo. I also used a Choinard-Frost axe cut down to 45cm for many years, in fact I still have it. I found the shaft to be lighter and more durable than the standard hickory and would have no hesitation in using this for a knife handle. I agree that laminated bamboo is not as attractive as many available options but imo it stands up well against "standard" micarta.
I too still have my Chouinard-Frost. I no longer do any mountaineering, but the axe is part of each climb and each memory. I will have it till the end!
I have come to the conclusion that any knife with micarta scales is heavy. I wonder what the real weight difference is over a nice wood?