Recommendation? Thoughts on the BRK Ultralight Bushcrafter (Elmax)

[Deinos]

Considering picking one of these up and wanted to know what you guys thought of it for light woods work (hiking, bushcraft, etc.). I find the elmax and size/weight appealing (already have plenty of 3v, a2, etc. in the arsenal).

Note: I know there are "opinions" on BRK as a company, I ask if you hold those opinions, suggest a preferable alternative instead of turning this into a bashing thread.

Thanks!

 

[ecallahan]

I have the Ultra Lite Bushcrafter in 3V. So I can’t speak to the steel, but this is my favorite smaller fixed blade. I carry it while hiking and camping. I have medium to larger hands and the handle fits me well in length and I find it very comfortable to hold. If you are doing extended or heavy duty chores you may want a larger knife. But for anything I encounter hiking and camping this knife is awesome. I actually have two and keep one in my work truck that’s how much I like it.

 

[KingMC]

Considering picking one of these up and wanted to know what you guys thought of it for light woods work (hiking, bushcraft, etc.). I find the elmax and size/weight appealing (already have plenty of 3v, a2, etc. in the arsenal).

Note: I know there are "opinions" on BRK as a company, I ask if you hold those opinions, suggest a preferable alternative instead of turning this into a bashing thread.

Thanks!

Since the problems with Bark River as a company are something you are willing to dismiss, the knife itself seems to fit what you seem to be looking for.

As for an alternative, since you are looking for a light, tough stainless bushcraft knife that isn't in 3V or A2, there aren't really any realistic alternatives besides the Bark River (barring any manufacturing problems with the knife). However, the Fiddleback Forge production Hiking Buddy in S35vn is less expensive, the same blade size and overall size, a more usable grind, and only 1oz heavier. Plus, it's Fiddleback Forge so you know you're going to get a good knife.

 

[353]

Great knife, only negative I can come up with is the handle is very thin.

If the handle was a little bulkier it would have been perfect.

 

[Deinos]

Since the problems with Bark River as a company are something you are willing to dismiss, the knife itself seems to fit what you seem to be looking for.

As for an alternative, since you are looking for a light, tough stainless bushcraft knife that isn't in 3V or A2, there aren't really any realistic alternatives besides the Bark River (barring any manufacturing problems with the knife). However, the Fiddleback Forge production Hiking Buddy in S35vn is less expensive, the same blade size and overall size, a more usable grind, and only 1oz heavier. Plus, it's Fiddleback Forge so you know you're going to get a good knife.

Not necessarily willing to dismiss. Just wanted to hear objective pros and cons of the knife itself and alternatives (in case it does bother me). The business side of BRK has been discussed ad nauseum.

On a side note... really wish LTWK did Elmax... love their stuff, but alas.

 

[kemikos]

Since you asked for alternatives, I'll make a suggestion, though it's not because of anything to do with Bark River.

You might check out the knifemaker's area of the exchange here. There are guys working in Elmax if that's what you're looking for, or lots of other steels too. You should be able to find something in a style you like if you watch the forum for a while.

You'll get a unique knife and support a small business owner. I picked up this one a few months ago, and it's nicer than any of the Barkies I own and cost less to boot:
https://bladeforums.com/threads/e4v1-edc-in-nitro-v-cocobolo-w-scout-sheath-reduced.1637265/

Holds an edge like crazy, too. I've since bought a couple more knives, basically less traditional designs from other makers, and haven't been disappointed. (This one's a beast and I love it: https://bladeforums.com/threads/bullnose-camper-redux-sold.1638344/ )

I'm not trying to turn you away from the Bushcrafter if that's what your heart's set on, but the exchange is definitely worth a look if you're open to other options...
https://bladeforums.com/forums/for-sale-fixed-blades.754/

 

[353]

I'd like to add that I have both the UL Bushcrafter and the regular Bushcrafter. Love the regular, fantastic knife!