My first experience with Busse was years ago. I happened to be trolling the interweb for a super tough, apocalypse ready Blade for my preps. Don’t remember the exact time, but when I found my way to the sight, the legendary Gladius was for sale. I had no idea how Busse operated, and that it would only be available for a short while. All I knew was that it was way out of my budget at the time, and that it caused some serious lust. Something about the handle and double guard visually appealed to me. Satin/CF with either Black or Blue&Black G10 was what I wanted. I also remember seeing a video of some guy showing how tough the edge was by slicing an old 55gal drum with one. Years later, I come across Busse again. Been slowly building a respectable collection, though the Gladius still isn’t part of it. Maybe one day.... what is part of the collection is the Forsaken Gemini I scored in the last round of Grab Bags. Muddy Brown with Tan&Black G10. While a cool blade overall, it just didn’t do it for me. The handle is different from what I’m used to and slightly uncomfortable, the G10 has some sharp edges, and the double guard seems more visually pleasing than physically. Just my personal opinion/preference, and in no way a dig on the blade. Decided to list it for trade, and I might be relistingfor sale. At this point, I have already have two of the TGULB on order, and with my initial Gemini experience not being to my liking, I contemplate canceling my order for the sake of an unfortunate hog or two that might have missed out. I ultimately decided to keep my order, check out the differences, and sell/trade them if I find as unfavorable as the FG. I even started fishing around for trades with a few of you before they even shipped! I’m Glad I kept the order, because the TGULB feels very different in hand. I find it Much more comfortable, even though I assumed the proud tang would prove otherwise. I like it so much, it made me kind of appreciate the FG. Just not enough to keep it. As an added bonus, the double guard/logo/black G10 section is reminiscent of the Gladius. It definitely rubs that lust muscle in just the right way. Very “second kind of cool”. Glad I got one for using and one for viewing.
Normally, I’m the kind of person that wants everything looking shiny and perfect, but I actually enjoy the factory installed scratch under the logo. Gives it a tougher look, like a big facial scar, and makes it more unique. The TGULB is definitely one of my favorites. Thanks to the Busse family and crew for all the work they’ve done over the years that lead to this knife.
