Knives of Alaska Bush Camp Cub Combo Suregrip Knives Review

Let’s Talk About Knives of Alaska Bush Camp Cub Combo Suregrip Knives

For over a decade, I’ve handled countless knives, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Today, we’re diving deep into the Knives of Alaska Bush Camp Cub Combo Suregrip Knives, a pairing designed for the demanding tasks of field dressing and camp cooking. The Bush Camp Knife boasts a robust 6-inch blade, while the Cub Bear Caping Knife tackles the finer details, promising versatility in the field.

My quest for a reliable and comprehensive knife set for extended backcountry hunts led me to this combo. I needed a large knife capable of handling the bulk of game processing, paired with a smaller, more precise tool for delicate work, all in a durable and easy-to-maintain package. Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the solid, full-tang construction of the Bush Camp Knife, radiating an immediate sense of durability.

Compared to similar combos from brands like Gerber or Buck, the Knives of Alaska stood out due to its D2 steel blade and the promise of superior edge retention. While others often opt for softer steels, the choice of D2 indicated a focus on performance over ease of sharpening, a trade-off I was willing to make. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; the knives looked the part of serious tools, but only field testing would reveal their true worth.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Knives of Alaska Bush Camp Cub Combo Suregrip Knives to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test came during a week-long elk hunt in the Colorado Rockies. The conditions were challenging, with fluctuating temperatures, occasional rain, and the ever-present dust of the high country. The Bush Camp Knife immediately proved its worth, effortlessly tackling the initial field dressing of a mature bull elk.

The Suregrip handle provided excellent purchase, even when wet, and the blade’s geometry made quick work of separating muscle and joint. The Cub Bear Caping Knife shined when it came to skinning around the antlers and eyes, offering the precision needed to avoid damaging the cape. After the initial field dressing, I was impressed with how easily the knives cleaned up, even with dried blood and grime.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use across multiple hunting trips and numerous campsite tasks, the Knives of Alaska Bush Camp Cub Combo Suregrip Knives have held up remarkably well. The D2 steel has lived up to its reputation, maintaining a sharp edge through considerable use. Minor surface scratches are visible on the tumbled blade finish, but there is no sign of chipping or significant wear.

Maintenance has been simple, consisting primarily of cleaning with warm water and soap followed by a light coat of oil. I’ve only needed to strop the blades a few times to maintain a razor-sharp edge. Compared to other knives I’ve used in similar conditions, the Knives of Alaska set has outperformed in terms of edge retention, grip, and overall durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Knives of Alaska Bush Camp Cub Combo Suregrip Knives

Specifications

The Knives of Alaska Bush Camp Cub Combo Suregrip Knives features the following specifications:

• The Bush Camp Knife is 10-1/2 inches in overall length, with a 6-inch drop-point blade and a 0.14-inch blade thickness.
• Both knives feature D2 Steel blades, known for their excellent edge retention and wear resistance. D2 steel is a high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel that offers a good balance of hardness and toughness, making it ideal for demanding cutting tasks.
• Both knives utilize a Suregrip handle, a black rubberized material that provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet or cold conditions.
• The Cub Bear Caping Knife is designed for fine work with a smaller blade, complementing the larger Bush Camp Knife.
• The combo includes a Leather Sheath for convenient and safe carry of both knives.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the knives’ performance and durability. The choice of D2 steel ensures that the blades hold an edge for extended periods, reducing the need for frequent sharpening. The Suregrip handles provide a secure and comfortable grip, even in challenging conditions, enhancing safety and control.

Performance & Functionality

The Knives of Alaska Bush Camp Cub Combo Suregrip Knives excel at their intended purpose: field dressing game and performing camp chores. The Bush Camp Knife handles the bulk of the work with ease, while the Cub Bear Caping Knife allows for precise cuts and detailing.

The blades are well-shaped for their respective tasks, and the Suregrip handles provide excellent control. The primary weakness lies in the D2 steel’s relative difficulty to sharpen compared to softer steels, requiring more effort and skill to achieve a razor-sharp edge. Overall, the combo meets and even exceeds expectations in terms of cutting performance and durability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Knives of Alaska combo features a practical and functional design. The full-tang construction provides strength and stability, while the Suregrip handles offer a comfortable and secure grip.

The knives feel well-balanced in the hand, although the Bush Camp Knife is noticeably heavier due to its larger size. The design is user-friendly with minimal learning curve; anyone familiar with using fixed-blade knives will find them easy to handle.

Durability & Maintenance

The Knives of Alaska Bush Camp Cub Combo Suregrip Knives are built to last, thanks to their D2 steel blades and full-tang construction. With proper care and maintenance, they should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only regular cleaning and occasional sharpening. The Suregrip handles are also easy to clean and resistant to wear and tear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Knives of Alaska Bush Camp Cub Combo Suregrip Knives come with a high-quality leather sheath designed to carry both knives securely. While there are no direct customization options offered by Knives of Alaska, the handles could theoretically be replaced with aftermarket options. Be aware that doing so would void any warranty and likely require professional gunsmithing.

The knives are compatible with any standard sharpening equipment suitable for D2 steel. No specific accessories are required, but a quality sharpening stone or system is highly recommended to maintain the blades’ edge.

Pros and Cons of Knives of Alaska Bush Camp Cub Combo Suregrip Knives

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Who Should Buy Knives of Alaska Bush Camp Cub Combo Suregrip Knives?

The Knives of Alaska Bush Camp Cub Combo Suregrip Knives are perfect for serious hunters, experienced outdoorsmen, and survivalists who demand reliable and high-performing tools. Those who process their own game or spend extended periods in the backcountry will especially appreciate the versatility and durability of this combo.

Beginners or casual campers might find the price and sharpening requirements to be a barrier. A must-have accessory is a quality sharpening stone or system designed for D2 steel.

Conclusion on Knives of Alaska Bush Camp Cub Combo Suregrip Knives

The Knives of Alaska Bush Camp Cub Combo Suregrip Knives are a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize performance and durability in their field knives. The D2 steel blades, Suregrip handles, and thoughtful design make this combo a reliable companion for any outdoor adventure.

The price is justified by the quality of materials and construction, and the performance surpasses that of many competitors. I personally recommend the Knives of Alaska Bush Camp Cub Combo Suregrip Knives to anyone seeking a versatile and dependable knife set for demanding tasks. If you’re ready to invest in quality and performance, this combo won’t disappoint!