Model 3

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Gregmsimpson

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May 18, 2016
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Team:

I don't know much about old Randall's so I have I question. Was the Model 7 "Fisherman-Hunter" ever made in a 4 inch version? If so how long ago? I see 4.5 and 5 inches in the current catalog but I like a shorter knife. If available and common I may try and find one.

I just picked up a model 8 and have a 27 mini in the mail. One of these will turn into a user for backpacking. I'm still in search of that perfect knife.

Cheers!!!
 
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To me 4.5 and up is perfect for a fixed blade, unless you want a skinner than a shorter blade works. Randall seems like they agree and make their smaller blade models a little bigger over the years. Folding knives cover a shorter/just need to cut something quickly role....Just get it, is all i'm trying to say
 
I'm a backpacker and literally count ounces so the lighter the knife the better. I'm not a fan of folders and love Randalls so I'll carry an extra ounce or two in a knife. I have a 5-5 for canoe camping and find it way to big for hiking. I'd like to get a 7 if I can get one in 4 inches. Just don't need 4.5. I'd even consider vintage.

Thanks for the reply.
 
Greg, going back through the catalogs, I found no listing for a 4" model #7, going back to its introduction in 1945. Model's # 5, 8, 11, and 26, yes, but not a #7. Hope that helps...
 
Greg, why not consider Gary Randall's special knife, the GTR? It is quite small and light, and should answer most of your needs. (CLICK HERE)
If the 4-inch blade is mandatory, then look at the Model #26 - Pathfinder (though the weight is a couple ounces more than the GTR)>
...and a couple of 3.8-ounce knives: 27 mini-Trailblazer and 27M Copper miniature.
 
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Gregmsimpson said:
I'm a backpacker and literally count ounces so the lighter the knife the better. I'm not a fan of folders and love Randalls so I'll carry an extra ounce or two in a knife. I have a 5-5 for canoe camping and find it way to big for hiking. I'd like to get a 7 if I can get one in 4 inches. Just don't need 4.5. I'd even consider vintage.

Thanks for the reply.
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I get it, part of the backpacking hobby is counting weight...in reality, on a weekend trip, a Victorinox cadet won't weigh you down that much.....
 
Melvin-Purvis: Thanks you for checking the catalogs. Greatly appreciated.

Cut & Run: Thanks for the suggestions. The mini is the winner so far.

Extrastout: You are correct, counting weight is part of it. I'm in my 50s and a few ounces adds to a few extra pounds and a whole lot less fun. I try to do 150 miles on the Appalachian Trail at a time. I usually carry a little 2 ounce knife, but there is something special about a Randall and I haven't found the perfect one yet. On my desk is a copper mini, 8-4, and 5-4. An 11-3 is in the desk - three of these will be sold in the next few weeks. Part of the fun is finding the perfect knife. Either the mini or 5-4 will make it into my pack. I was thinking the 7-4 would be like the mini just a bit bigger. I appreciate everyone's thoughts. I just wish I could get a 7-4 instead of a 7-4.5. The pathfinder never appealed to me and I was told the GTR is tough to resell as it isn't as popular. Although the Randall shop did recommend the GTR.
 
Gregmsimpson said:
Melvin-Purvis: Thanks you for checking the catalogs. Greatly appreciated.

Cut & Run: Thanks for the suggestions. The mini is the winner so far.

Extrastout: You are correct, counting weight is part of it. I'm in my 50s and a few ounces adds to a few extra pounds and a whole lot less fun. I try to do 150 miles on the Appalachian Trail at a time. I usually carry a little 2 ounce knife, but there is something special about a Randall and I haven't found the perfect one yet. On my desk is a copper mini, 8-4, and 5-4. An 11-3 is in the desk - three of these will be sold in the next few weeks. Part of the fun is finding the perfect knife. Either the mini or 5-4 will make it into my pack. I was thinking the 7-4 would be like the mini just a bit bigger. I appreciate everyone's thoughts. I just wish I could get a 7-4 instead of a 7-4.5. The pathfinder never appealed to me and I was told the GTR is tough to resell as it isn't as popular. Although the Randall shop did recommend the GTR.
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I just ordered the Denmark Special from the non catalog knives, but its 4.5"......I tried lol....My friend is a through hiker of the Appalachian trail and this is where I learned of the weight thing. Its a huge deal, I appreciate and give you credit for actually getting out there Gregmsimpson...You sir deserve the best!
 
The Denmark is a great choice; super light with that #6 blade grind, and a real cutter. Good call. :thumbsup:
 
Gregmsimpson said:
An 11-3 is in the desk.
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I'm 56, a Randall nut, and have backpacked for 30 years, so I clearly understand your quest to eliminate weight, but your desire to carry a Randall. IMO, you might already have the perfect knife.

You mentioned that you have an 11-3. That knife doesn't exist. You either have an 11-4 or a 10-3. If it's a 10-3, I think that is the perfect Randall backpacking knife. Lightweight, full tang, stainless, Micarta scales and plenty of blade length for food prep and other camp chores.

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Tom, wasn't the original Nordic Knives Special a (what became a) Model #11-3? I've had two, and the OAL blade length was something like 3.25" and 3.375", roughly speaking... o_O
 
The 10-3 would make a nice little hiking knife for sure. Also the Triathlete is a good option. The leather stacked handles are very light weight in any model. My 3-5 is a really nice knife but the 23 Gamemaster with leather handles would be a awesome choice too
 
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