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Adding a new line! Need advice..

C

ceylonc

Eberlestock Dealer
Commercial Supporter
Full Member
Minuteman
Jun 26, 2006
3,475
1
Memphis, TN
Hey guys,

Since deltaoutdoorsman.com opened its doors a few years ago, the 'Hide has been a BIG influence in what we sell, brands carried, etc. So, it makes sense to come here, asking what new gear YOU want to see us offer.

As many of you know, we launched a line of "SHTF / Bug Out" bags about a year ago. Along with basic survival equipment & gear, we also offer half a dozen or so different pack and gear setups that address different perceived needs, situations, etc. These have been good sellers and a lot of thought was put into the particular gear & pack combos. However, they aren't perfect and one noticeable void has to do with the lack of a blade/survival knife, multi-tool, and breacher axe. So, while I've spent some time researching different brands, models, and offerings, I need YOUR help in narrowing down what YOU want us to add to deltaoutdoorsman.com's Bug Out Bag lineup.

Here is a prelim list of some brands I'm looking to add. Depending on the make, there are either 1-2 models of interest. With a few (such as Zero Tolerance), we're going to add the entire lineup. Here goes:

Knives:
Bark River
Becker
DPx
Emerson
Esee
Gerber
Ka-Bar
Kershaw
Ontario
SOG
Spyderco
Zero Tolerance
Benchmade

Multi-Tools
Gerber
Leatherman
SOG
Victorinox

Tomahawks
Cold Steel
Ontario
SOG
Ranger
United

Here are a few questions...
1) are there any particular models from the list above that are "must add" or avoid at all costs;
2) are there any brands not listed above that I need to consider adding;

I appreciate you taking the time to read this thread. Just trying to get a conversation started that will help deltaoutdoorsman.com continue to grow & serve the community here.

Thanks!
Ceylon
deltaoutdoorsman.com
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

Esee and benchmad are my preferences for knives. In addition to carrying hawks, Gransfors Bruks and Wetterlings make good axes.
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

Leatherman multi tools are the only way. I have seen way way way to many SOGs that have bent tools and they really aren't worth the cost. The knives, I would look at adding a few of the Benchmade folders and maybe an auto or two. Zero Tolerance, get all that you can, they are bad ass knives. They have suceeded in removing all Benchmades from my pockets. Just for shits and giggles here is a picture of one of my Zero Tolerances
wink.gif


ZT0001.jpg
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

Leatherman and benchmade. You should do a poll Ceylon...
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

Victorinox Huntsman, Benchmade Nimravus 140 & Presidio 520 are a few ideas that I personally favor.
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

I would definitely consider CRKT I have had the knife below for a good 10 years or so and I havent been gentle to it this knife has been use to do everything and still holds up.
ec0ed403.jpg

As far as knives from the brands that should be considered must haves I would say the Gerber Infantry is definitely one to consider for a survival type situation. They are quite beefy solid knives but not so expensive you feel bad when you use a rock to beat it through a tree or something like that.
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

I think you should consider adding a cheap mora to go along with whatever you choose to include. For the cost they're super functional, and cheap enough that you don't worry if you break or lose it.

I use a mora for almost everything and break out one of the big guns if it's just too tough a task.
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

ESEE knives are rock solid. I have a DPX folder and I've used it as a church key to open beer cans.
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

Another line to consider is Fallkniven. Their F1 and S1 are about indestructable and standard issue for many countries. Superb survival knives!
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

Zero Tolerance, Emerson, Esee for knives

Leatherman for multi-tools

Cold Steel for hawks

check the results from the Atlanta Cutlery Show and see who ranked #1 etc---results will be in the knife mags soon---probably the largest knife show anywhere
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

I've used all four of the listed multi-tools. I thought the Victorinox was the best with Leatherman second. The SOG was a piece of junk! (Which really surprised me.) I've had a couple Gerbers- the older ones are good quality, but the newer ones are not nearly as nice.

Jacob
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

Knives: Benchmade, 550 in particular, Kershaw was pretty good its been years, Gerber the ones I've had seemed decent for the price not especially ergonomic and basically unremarkable.
Multi-tool: Leatherman
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

Some great suggestions here, MUCH appreciated. We are definitely bringing in Emerson, Esee, Benchmade, and Zero Tolerance. My daily carry is a ZT 0350ST that is the cat's ass! I also REALLY like the Gerber LMF II knife. It is affordable, holds an edge, and is very durable. There are lots of other offerings that will be considered as well. If it is what YOU want us to offer, then we'll look at bringing it in...

With regard to the CRKT suggestion, their catalog us huge. Are there any particular models you'd recommend? I have been considering the line but didn't know where to start...

It looks like Leatherman has a devoted following here. Are there any models you want to see? The Super Tool 300, Wave, and Charge TTI seem to be well regarded. Any others to look at?? The Victorinox Swisstool seems to be popular as well. Anybody have experience with one?

Finally, the FastHawk, TrenchHawk, SpikeHawk, and Vietnam models from Cpld Steel seem to be well made and affordable. I really don't have any "high end" offerings in the works. Any suggestions?

Thanks again guys!
Ceylon
deltaoutdoorsman.com
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ceylonc</div><div class="ubbcode-body">It looks like Leatherman has a devoted following here. Are there any models you want to see? The Super Tool 300, Wave, and Charge TTI seem to be well regarded.
</div></div>

Don't forget the newer MUT...
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

Another vote for the Leatherman. Wave model in particular.

Benchmade knives are great.
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Sean the Nailer</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Nobody has suggested the Rock River 'Hide Fighter yet. How come? </div></div>

Very nice blade. That being said it is a custom and not a "everyday" kind of blade. YMMV
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

Gerber tools and DEFINITELY the ZT line. My EDC is a 302 and I love it. My strider sits in the drawer (not intending to start a debate on this). Spartan blades too maybe.
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

Hey Ceylonc

I would suggest the leatherman MUT all the way . I use mine on the range all the time you cant beat it for a firearms multi-tool. I really like the DPx folder and Zero tolerance folder. I do know that Spartan blades is coming out with a folder and would suggest that and Microtech both of there product lines are just awesome. My microtech is one of the best blades I have ever had and American made!!! MHO

http://www.microtechknives.com/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9f27x2cIVc
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

Resurrecting this thread, as I'm moving forward with a framework of additions for this new line of gear. It is still evolving, and I'm hoping to get some more feedback & suggestions from you guys.

I'm still tweeking (and researching) both the fixed blade / "survival" knives to be added, but the Tomahawk additions have been selected. Granted, these aren't "premium" or custom priced models, but I think what is offered here is a good place to start. What do you think??? Here is the lineup:

<span style="font-weight: bold">Cold Steel:</span>
--Spike Hawk;

<span style="font-weight: bold">SOG:</span>
--Tactical Tomahawk;

<span style="font-weight: bold">United Cutlery:</span>
--Vietmam Tomahawk;
--M48;

I'm strongly considering the Trench Hawk from Cold Steel and the Fast Hawk from SOG. Anybody have any experience with these 2 models & how they compliment/compete with the others listed above? I'm also going to add some higher priced tomahawks and hatches, with brands such as Ranger, Condor, Estwing, Wetterlings, and American Tomahawk.

One reason it is taking longer than expected to launch this new segment has to do with the multitude of options in the knife/blade catagory. I don't want to offer everything under the sun, just gear that is tough as hell, a great value, and has a company that stands behind the product. I like Gerber's LMF II Infantry knife, and think that offerings from Becker, ESEE, Zero Tolerance, and SOG will occupy some spaces in the lineup. Are there any particular models out there I NEED to look at adding? I'd like to cover price points up to $250.00, so feel free to recommend anything you think deserves consideration.

Thanks again for reading this thread. Hope to be "live" with this lineup soon.
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ceylonc</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Resurrecting this thread, as I'm moving forward with a framework of additions for this new line of gear. It is still evolving, and I'm hoping to get some more feedback & suggestions from you guys.

I'm still tweeking (and researching) both the fixed blade / "survival" knives to be added, but the Tomahawk additions have been selected. Granted, these aren't "premium" or custom priced models, but I think what is offered here is a good place to start. What do you think??? Here is the lineup:

<span style="font-weight: bold">Cold Steel:</span>
--Spike Hawk;

<span style="font-weight: bold">SOG:</span>
--Tactical Tomahawk;

<span style="font-weight: bold">United Cutlery:</span>
--Vietmam Tomahawk;
--M48;

I'm strongly considering the Trench Hawk from Cold Steel and the Fast Hawk from SOG. Anybody have any experience with these 2 models & how they compliment/compete with the others listed above? I'm also going to add some higher priced tomahawks and hatches, with brands such as Ranger, Condor, Estwing, Wetterlings, and American Tomahawk.

One reason it is taking longer than expected to launch this new segment has to do with the multitude of options in the knife/blade catagory. I don't want to offer everything under the sun, just gear that is tough as hell, a great value, and has a company that stands behind the product. I like Gerber's LMF II Infantry knife, and think that offerings from Becker, ESEE, Zero Tolerance, and SOG will occupy some spaces in the lineup. Are there any particular models out there I NEED to look at adding? I'd like to cover price points up to $250.00, so feel free to recommend anything you think deserves consideration.

Thanks again for reading this thread. Hope to be "live" with this lineup soon.


</div></div>

The SOG line I have had issues with. Yes they always stand behind their product, but in a SHTF event I doubt you will be calling in to get a replacement. I have since gone to cold steel and been a good switch so far. I do my fair amount of tossing it around in the woods. I'm glad to see you guys have the ZT stuff... love their knives. Have you thought about adding a machete at all? I have a ontario saw back and LOVE it!!!
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

Definitly the ZT 300 series. Also the fixed blades are awesome. I am in the market for a new 301 so i'll hold tight until you get them in stock.
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

I'd certainly give the following Benchmades a hard look. BM's carry a hell of a warranty too, should one ever be needed.

BM 550/551. An economical, yet tough knife with the Axis lock.

BM 520. Overbuilt like a tank. Aggressive scales that grip your hand in all conditions. Argueably one of the toughest folders in the current BM lineup.

Fixed models - 140/147

All the above models would fall well under your $250.00 cap.

You may also wish to consider some of the DMT diamond sharpening tools, such as the double sided Dia-folders, credit card sharpeners, or the Magna-Guide system. These items take up very little room and are perfect for keeping an edge at home or in the field.
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

Definately CRKT. Hard to beat for the money. Carry one in the front of my body armor at work.
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

I think you should have a few lefthand or ambi folders. Being lefthanded, I'm limited on most "tactical" folders & I know I'm not alone. Plus a lot of confused (righthanded
grin.gif
) people carry a folder on their off side. I have a lh Emerson Commander, Benchmade 710 & a lh CRKT M21 and have no complaints about any of them. I also like the lh Spyderco Military.
 
Re: Adding a new line! Need advice..

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Jacob J</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I've used all four of the listed multi-tools. I thought the Victorinox was the best with Leatherman second. The SOG was a piece of junk! (Which really surprised me.) I've had a couple Gerbers- the older ones are good quality, but the newer ones are not nearly as nice.

Jacob </div></div>

That makes sense, I've had the same Gerber Multi-tool for about 15 years and it's still going strong. BTW I beat the crap out of my stuff!!!!!
 
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