Posts Tagged ‘Survival’

How To Care For Bowie Knives

Tuesday, July 6th, 2010

Your bowie knife represents a considerable investment. When you purchase a quality blade, you’ll find that these are anything but “cheap.” However, you’ll also find that your knife is a reliable, trusted companion during any situation that you might face, whether hunting, fishing, camping or just working around the house. That said, these knives must be well cared for if you expect that investment to stand the test of time. What goes into proper knife care?

Proper knife care for your bowie knife actually starts with proper use. Remember, your knife is not a screwdriver. It is not a hatchet or a hammer, either. While you can certainly use your knife in these capacities in a pinch, it’s really not recommended that you do. Using your knife correctly will ensure that it holds up better and lasts much longer.

Proper sharpening is another concern. Without the right sharpening tools and procedures, the edge of your knife will give out eventually. This is true no matter what type of metal you choose for the blade of your bowie knife. Make sure that you know how to sharpen that blade, though, or you could find that you actually cause more harm than good in your efforts. Use a whetstone or a high quality all-in-one knife sharpener for the best benefits. Also, if you’re forced to use an emergency sharpener (such as a rock in the wilderness) always make sure that you sharpen the knife properly at your first opportunity.

Another important point to consider during care and storage of your knife is sharpening the blade. A dull blade is very dangerous. Make sure that you keep the blade sharpened correctly, using a whetstone and strop, a series of whetstones, or using an all-in-one knife sharpener. Keeping the blade sharpened will help ensure that any cuts made are clean and not ragged, and it will also ensure that the blade is in top condition.

These are just a few areas of concern when it comes to caring for that bowie knife. You’ll find that your particular care regimen might include several other things, depending on the actual uses to which you put that knife. Take care of that blade and it will be with you for a long time.

Dave is the owner of an online bowie knives and glock grip extensions store.

What Metal Is The Best For Blades Of Bowie Knives?

Sunday, July 4th, 2010

If it’s time to buy a new knife, then you have a world of options at your fingertips. You can choose almost any size bowie knives possible, from a mere six-inch blade to a whopper that’s more than a foot long. You’ll also have a few other considerations to make about the knife before you purchase it. For instance, you’ll need to know what sort of design you want; traditional, modern military derived and fantasy knives are just three of the options. You’ll need to choose what sort of handle material you want, as well.

However, one of the most important questions that you will need to answer is what sort of metal you prefer for the blade of your bowie knives. What are your options? Why does it matter? Isn’t metal basically the same? Actually, the metal used in knife blades varies considerably. You will find literally hundreds of types of metal on the market, each offering pros and cons to its use. For instance, one particular metal might be ultra hard and hold the best edge, but it might be brittle when used in a longer blade. You might find that some metals are much more resilient and tough, but they do not hold as sharp an edge as other metals.

As you can see, the choice of metal for your knife blade is very important. What should you choose? What are your options? You can break your decision down into a few different categories to make it somewhat easier. You’ll find steel (surgical), stainless steel and high carbon steel. Some knives offer carbon fiber blades, but these are gimmicks that should be avoided, as they either don’t hold up well, or are so expensive as to be prohibitive.

So, do you want stainless, high carbon or surgical steel in that blade? Stainless steel offers significant benefits if rust is a concern. However, high carbon steel comes in a lot of different varieties that are almost as rust resistant as stainless steel. Surgical steel offers an excellent edge, as well as a lower price point than stainless or high carbon metals.

Choosing the right bowie knives for your needs will also depend on where you’ll use the knife. For instance, if you’re hunting on the East Coast, as opposed to in Alaska, you’ll need very different things from that knife, so consider your usage needs as well as the metal type.

Dave is the owner of an online bowie knives and glock grip extensions store.

How Can I Fix A Bent Bowie Knife Blade?

Thursday, July 1st, 2010

A bent knife blade is more than just an inconvenience. It can render even bowie knives virtually useless, depending on the severity of the bend, as well as the location of the bend. Common areas for bends to occur are at the tip of the knife, as well as on the edge and even the midsection of the blade, itself. These are usually the result of accidental drops onto hard surfaces, or they might be the result of intentional misuse on the part of you or someone to whom you lent your knife. Regardless, bent blades are usually not covered by the manufacturers or bowie knives.

What should you do, should you realize that the tip or blade of your knife is bent? How do you repair bowie knives with bent blades? The very first thing you need to do is scrutinize where the bend is located. The most common area of damage is to the point of the knife. This might be because you dropped the knife point first onto a hard surface, such as a rock or cement. It might also be because someone attempted to pry with the blade or use it as a screwdriver. Bowie knives should not be used thus.

If just the tip of the knife is bent, you can try to bend it back as well, using a pair of pliers. Usually, this will result in the tip snapping off the blade, though. If this happens, it’s possible to use a whetstone to reshape and sharpen the damaged portion of the blade. Obviously, this is not a great scenario. While you will have a usable knife, it certainly will not look the same ever again.

What should you do, then? Your best option is to reheat the blade tip and then reshape it. This will require some serious heat, a hammer, an anvil and some pretty specific knowhow. In fact, you might not be able to accomplish this task on your own at all. It’s a better idea to find a cutler who can repair your knife. Why should you opt for professional help with bent bowie knives?

A cutler will ensure that the blade does not lose its heat temper and will also be able to ensure that the blade regains its proper dimensions. Conducting such repairs at home, on your own, can be an excellent way to ruin that knife blade through incorrect repair techniques.

Dave is the owner of an online bowie knife and glock grip extension store.

Can I Pack A Bowie Knife In My Suitcase When Flying?

Tuesday, June 29th, 2010

Being able to carry your personal belongings with you when you travel is of the utmost importance. Why wouldn’t you be able to carry your bowie knife with you on an airplane? Well, after the backlash of 9/11, it seemed that you couldn’t carry anything aboard a plane, without being suspected of terrorism. However, the TSA has eased some travel requirements. So, can you carry that bowie knife with you on a plane?

The answer to that question is “yes and no.” How can that be? First, you have to understand the difference between carryon and checked baggage. For instance, any carryon bag must be sent through a metal detector, before you are allowed to board a plane with it. In addition, any item within that bag will be within easy reach during the flight. Therefore, you cannot carry your bowie knife in your carryon luggage.

Next, you will need to pack your knife appropriately. You would think that just placing it in your suitcase would be enough, but the TSA demands more stringent measures. You’ll need to make sure that your bowie knife is sheathed, first and foremost. You will also need to make sure that the knife is secured within the sheath in some way. Some sheaths have a buttoned strap for this purpose. However, even a simple piece of twine can serve your purpose here.

Next, you will also need to wrap the bowie knife in something – bubble wrap works well. Actually, if you can manage it, you should box your knife, wrapping and all. This will provide the utmost protection for baggage handlers and inspectors who might come into contact with your luggage and the knife itself. As long as you follow these precautions, you can carry anything in your suitcase from a bowie knife to scissors, swords and even firearms (broken down into component pieces, of course).

You should also understand that your bag will likely be inspected during the loading process. No matter how well packaged it might be, it will show up in the x-ray machine. Therefore, having bowie knives wrapped securely will prevent injury to the inspectors, as well as potential injury to baggage handlers. You will find that traveling with bowie knives or even with swords and other bladed weapons is not a problem so long as you follow the proper procedures.

Dave is the owner of an online bowie knives and glock grip extension store.

Characteristics Of Bowie Knives

Friday, June 18th, 2010

Bowie knives are some of the most sought after and prized knives in the world. Their rugged good looks, impressive size and incredible durability and usability make them ideal for numerous situations, from clearing brush to personal protection. However, what actually qualifies as a Bowie knife? To answer this question, you’ll have to understand a little bit about the history of this popular knife. Where did the knife get its start? What did the first versions look like?

Because of the intense popularity of Bowie knives, you’ll find a wide range of different styles. In fact, there are so many different types, that it can be hard to tell what is real and what is not. For instance, you’ll find knives from the Rambo movies that are derivatives of the Bowie knife, but feature a serrated back (spine). You’ll find “Bowie” style machetes, as well. The real determining factor in the equation is your own personal tastes. For instance, if you are a purist, then the Rambo and Predator editions are certainly out of the running for true Bowie status.

The “original” or “true” Bowie knife today is actually based on the “Sheffield” Bowie, which differs from the version used by James Bowie at the Alamo. Today’s version has a much less pronounced clip at the front, with a longer, though shallower, curve leading from the tip of the point to the top of the spine. The knives are also usually thinner than the one that James Black produced and the false edge is usually sharpened (though not always).

The classic look is what most purists accept as a true Bowie knife, though even here, there is much disparity. Some collectors even accept Sheffield Bowies as true Bowie knives (these feature a sharpened back curve on the point, where the clipped portion curves up to meet the knife’s spine).

Obviously, determining what is a real Bowie and what is not can be a complicated process; however, let your own preferences be your guide. If you purchase a Rambo-style knife and feel that it qualifies, then that should be good enough.

Blake is a business consultant for an online store featuringbowie knives for sale and survival bowie knives.

Can I Carry A Bowie Knife In Public?

Thursday, June 17th, 2010

So, you’ve just purchased that beautiful new Bowie knife and now you want to wear it out on the town. You’ve purchased a nice new sheath that matches your belt and can’t wait to go out with your knife. However, before you head out the door with that knife strapped you should know whether or not you can actually carry it. Why wouldn’t you be able to carry your knife in public? As surprising as it might be, there are numerous states that will not allow you to carry that knife, whether it is sheathed, or unsheathed, concealed or unconcealed. How do you know?

Your first step will be to investigate your state’s particular laws. For instance, in Alaska, you can carry any type of knife concealed or unconcealed, except for automatic knives (there are a few provisions, of course). So, if you live in Alaska, carrying that Bowie knife around on your hip is perfectly fine. However, should you decide to visit Washington DC, you should not carry your knife with you. The nation’s capital does not allow any knives to be carried unless they are folding knives with a blade of 3 inches or less. This includes fixed blade knives, folding knives, dirks, daggers, etc, as well as concealed and unconcealed knives.

The state of Delaware on the other hand, allows the carrying of fixed blade knives such as Bowie knives, dirks and daggers, so long as they are in plain sight. If they are concealed, you must have a permit to carry a concealed weapon. However, Delaware does prohibit the use of balisongs or automatic knives whether concealed or unconcealed.

In addition, you’ll find that Arizona lets individual cities and towns create their own laws governing what knives can be carried and how they can be carried legally. Therefore, should you travel from Flagstaff to Tucson, you might find that your knife is not legal. Check ahead to avoid legal problems.

As you can see, determining whether or not you can take that Bowie knife with you out of the house can be a bit confusing. Speak with your local police station, or consult your state’s specific website to find out what laws govern your ability to carry a knife in public, whether concealed or out in the open.

Blake is a business consultant for an online bowie knife store featuring hunting bowie knives.

How Do I Sharpen A Bowie Knife?

Tuesday, June 15th, 2010

Sharpening Bowie knives need not be a frustrating procedure. In fact, while these are certainly larger than many other types of knives, you’ll find that you sharpen the blades in much the same way. How should you go about doing this? What should you do or not do in order to ensure that you are able to achieve a clean, sharp, straight edge on that knife? Here, you’ll learn a bit more about the knife sharpening process, as well as what not to do when sharpening Bowie knives (or any other knife for that matter).

However, because Bowie knives are quite large, you might find that many of the all-in-one sharpening systems are not ideal for use. In fact, your knife might not even fit the slots of these gadgets. That said, you can find all-in-one solutions for larger blades, you just have to look a little harder.

The process of sharpening a knife is all about removing metal from the blade, but doing so in a controlled pattern. The angle at which you hold your knife will determine some of how much metal is removed, as will the duration of the sharpening process. If you choose to use a sharpening system, make sure that it offers several different angles in the guide, so that you can achieve the sharpness and blade shape that’s right for your knife.

Using an all-in-one system, all you really have to do is position the angle guide, and then pull the knife through the device. Some of these systems rely on grinding your knife in circles, with an upright supporting the knife at the proper angle, though.

Once you have ground down one side of the blade and raised a burr, you will need to flip the knife over and grind the other side. This will raise a burr all the way down the blade (including the tip of the blade). Once the burr has been raised, you should use a fine whetstone or a strop to remove the burr and reveal the true edge of the blade. Further stropping or honing will polish the edges, as well.

Blake is a business consultant for an online bowie knives store featuring combat bowie knives.

The Survivalist’s Guide To Being Prepared

Tuesday, June 15th, 2010

One of the most responsible and mature decisions a gentleman might make is creating a emergency checklist. Many know that this is considered a smart idea, but often it can be overwhelming to try to determine how to do this. The following is an overview of what should be included in an emergency preparedness checklist.

The first basic step is to put together what is often termed a disaster supply kit. This kit should have items that would be necessary or beneficial to have on hand while an emergency is taking place. It is important that the item be easy to carry and portable. Some good suggestions might be a larger sized backpack or a container made from plastic with handles.

After the nature of your kit is determined, you need to locate the many things it will require. Information is very important. Putting together a list of your family information, like who your family doctor is and different contact numbers is important. If children live in the home, remember to include their age and names, too.

First aid items and supplies are mandatory. Accidents can and do happen during emergencies, especially drastic ones such as floods, avalanches, or earthquakes. If you or a loved one is taking a prescribed medication, they should be included in the kit as well, along with any additional aid, such as glasses or hearing devices.

Water is a vital part of existence, and it needs to be inside or next to your pack. It is often suggested that you ensure you have a single gallon for each individual in your family per day. Along with other nonperishable foodstuffs, such as granola and protein bars and canned meats, make sure you have a hand-crank can opener in your kit.

An extra change of clothes is a good idea, plus any rain gear and durable footwear, too. Other things, like a blanket, sleeping bag, flashlight, and battery powered radio with extra batteries are all great survival items to have on hand. Two other overlooked things that need to be in the disaster pack are money and a set of car keys. If there is a baby or young child within your home, think about keeping other supplies that are relevant to their care inside the pack.

Escape plans are necessary, for without their use a lot of accidents can happen during disasters, primarily as a result of a lack of communication. To do this, just draw out the basic interior of the house, paying close attention to the fundamental floor plan. Other points of interest, like doors, windows, and stairs should be included in the escape plan, too.

Appliances need to be noted in your plan too. This is primarily because these items, such as refrigerators and stoves, will become hazardous in an emergency. Another important piece of information that should be included in your plan is the location of the emergency kit. A minimum of two escape routes need to be detailed from each room and area of your house. A meeting area also should be agreed on where everyone in your home meets after they are out of the structure.

Having an emergency preparedness checklist and kit is one thing. Knowing how to use the kit is another. Everyone in your home should be well versed as to where this survivalist kit is and how to use its contents. It has the potential of saving the life of your family, and you as well. Regardless what your situation is, it is vital that you know what to do when an emergency happens.

One of the most important things that need to go into your emergency bag is a good Survival knife. You will find more and more uses for it than you ever thought possible if you find ones self in an emergency situation. Even something as small as a pocket knife can be very useful in an emergency.

How To Remove Rust From A Bowie Knife

Wednesday, May 12th, 2010

Owning and using a knife have been a part of human life for millennia. However, since the dawn of metal blades, several things have had ill effects on knives. While there are numerous things that can occur, such as bending, scratching, dulling and more, rust is perhaps the most insidious threat. If your Bowie knife has become rusty, then it is only a matter of time before it is rendered useless to you. How do you clean rust from your blade, though?

One obvious method is to use oil. Bowie knives with expensive blades should be oiled regularly, anyway. Not only does oil prevent rust, however, but it removes it. Clean off any excess dirt or flaked metal off of your Bowie. After this is done, apply a thick coat of oil to the blade. The next step requires patience. Let your knife sit for a minimum 72 hours. After it’s sat for a while, take a toothbrush or a sharp tool and, after wiping off the oil, use that tool to remove any remaining rust spots. Remember to lightly oil the blade before putting it back in the sheath.

Any type of steel can rust. The bluish-grey spots that develop on knife blades are not rust; they’re oxidization spots and they’re not harmful. Rust is a reddish color and it comes off in flakes. It can be removed. The good news is that you don’t have to use any harsh chemicals to get the rust off of a Bowie knife. In fact, you can do it with white vinegar, citric acid or simple blade oil. Any of these products will remove the blemishes from your blade and get it back into like-new condition.

It will take time for any agent you apply to the blade to work on the rust. Plan on leaving a rusted Bowie knife sitting for at least a few days while the agent does its work. If you’re using citric acid or white vinegar, you’ll need to soak a cloth with it, wrap it around the blade and leave it to sit. Oil is used in the same way. After the blade has sat for a while, you can remove the cloth and work on the rust. Much of it will have dissolved with exposure to the solvent used. You can usually scrape away the remaining rust with a stiff toothbrush or a small metal tool, taking care not to hurt the blade.

These blades can last much longer than a lifetime if they’re cared for, and will generally last less than a year if they’re not. Knives are elegant tools and are often made of very expensive steel. This makes them durable, even when their blades have become rusted from improper care or disuse.

Blake is a business consultant for an online bowie knife store featuring the jim bowie knife.

Taking Care Of Your Knife

Tuesday, May 11th, 2010

Bowie knives are almost too cheap these days. People forget what they’re buying and, rather than taking pride in what they have, oftentimes fail to take care of them and just buy new ones. This defeats the whole purpose of owning a fine bladed tool or weapon. The best versions of these knives are among the most beautiful blades in production. The design of the knife is connected to the American Frontier and to some of its most notable figures.

Keep It Dry: It is inevitable that your Bowie knife will eventually come into contact with water. In fact, you might clean it with warm water if the blade becomes dirty. However, it is essential that your knife stays out of prolonged contact with water. You might think that because your blade is made of stainless steel, that it will not rust. This is misleading – stainless steel will rust, it just resists corrosion better than other metals. Therefore, make sure that your knife stays as dry as possible.

Bowie knives need to have their blades taken care of properly. There are numerous different oils you can use to coat your blade, and you should. Oil displaces moisture on the blade and protects it from rust. You should keep your knife in your sheath, when possible, but not with a dry blade. Remember never to store your knife in a damp area or in an area where there are solvents which attack metal or the materials used on the handle and other parts of the knife, including the sheath.

Proper Storage: Another vital element of maintaining your Bowie knife is proper storage. If you will be using your knife every day, and caring for it properly, then you can store it in its leather sheath without any ill effects. However, if you will be using your knife only periodically, then storing it in an airtight container is the best option. Leather absorbs moisture and this can lead to rust starting on the blade, so take care when storing your knife.

Bowie knives can be excellent tools for your needs. They can be used for hunting, fishing, camping and myriad other uses. However, learning how to maintain your knife is essential. Without the proper care and maintenance, your knife will not last very long.

Blake is a business consultant for an online bowie knives store featuring bowie knives for sale.