Let’s Talk About Knives of Alaska Trekker Whitetail Hunter/Cub Bear D2 Knives Combo
The Knives of Alaska Trekker Whitetail Hunter/Cub Bear D2 Knives Combo represents a thoughtful pairing for the serious hunter who appreciates having the right tool for every stage of the game processing. Knives of Alaska has built a reputation for rugged, dependable knives, and this combo promises to uphold that standard. This combo aims to provide a versatile and lightweight solution for skinning and caping, all housed in a quality leather sheath.
My aging Buck 110 just wasn’t cutting it anymore when it came to finer detail work on deer and elk. I needed something smaller and more maneuverable for caping, and the combo set approach seemed like an efficient way to tackle both tasks.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the heft and feel of both knives. The Trekker Whitetail Hunter felt substantial without being unwieldy, and the Cub Bear was perfectly sized for detail work. The fit and finish were excellent, and the Suregrip handles provided a secure grip even with wet hands.
I considered a few other options, including individual knives from Benchmade and Gerber, but the Knives of Alaska combo ultimately won out because of the value proposition and the reputation for edge retention using D2 steel. The included sheath also streamlined the decision-making process.
I was definitely excited. The knives felt like tools built for serious work, and I couldn’t wait to put them to the test in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Knives of Alaska Trekker Whitetail Hunter/Cub Bear D2 Knives Combo to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to use the Knives of Alaska Trekker Whitetail Hunter/Cub Bear D2 Knives Combo came during a late-season deer hunt in the high country of Colorado. The weather was cold and snowy, creating challenging conditions for handling equipment. I used the Trekker Whitetail Hunter to skin and quarter a mature buck.
The knives performed admirably, even with my hands being cold and somewhat numb. The Suregrip handle truly lived up to its name, providing a secure grip even when wet. There were no slips, and I felt confident in my control of the blade.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including processing two more deer and a pronghorn antelope, the Knives of Alaska Trekker Whitetail Hunter/Cub Bear D2 Knives Combo has proven to be incredibly reliable. The D2 steel has held its edge remarkably well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain sharpness. There are no signs of wear and tear on the blades or handles.
Cleaning the knives is simple; a quick wash with soap and water followed by drying and a light coat of oil keeps them in top condition. Compared to my old Buck knife, these knives are significantly easier to maintain and provide a much better grip in demanding conditions. They outperform in both edge retention and overall comfort.
Breaking Down the Features of Knives of Alaska Trekker Whitetail Hunter/Cub Bear D2 Knives Combo
Specifications
- Blade Material: D2 Steel provides excellent edge retention and wear resistance. D2 is a high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel known for its toughness and ability to hold a sharp edge for extended periods.
- Knife Application: Fixed Blade design ensures maximum strength and reliability. The fixed blade construction eliminates any folding mechanisms, resulting in a sturdier and more dependable tool.
- Included Accessories: Leather Sheath offers safe and convenient carry. This protects the blades and provides easy access when needed.
- Handle Material: Suregrip provides a secure and comfortable grip even in wet conditions. This synthetic material is designed to prevent slippage and reduce hand fatigue during extended use.
- Blade Finish: Tumbled finish offers a non-reflective surface and helps resist corrosion. This helps to minimize glare and protect the blade from the elements.
- Handle Color: Black provides a neutral and professional appearance. It helps with keeping a low profile.
- Sheath Material: Leather offers durability and a classic look. Over time, the leather will age and become more flexible.
These specifications are important because they directly translate into the knife’s performance in the field. D2 steel provides exceptional edge retention, while the Suregrip handle ensures safe and comfortable handling, even in adverse conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Knives of Alaska Trekker Whitetail Hunter/Cub Bear D2 Knives Combo excels at its intended purpose: processing game. The Trekker Whitetail Hunter is perfectly sized for skinning and quartering larger animals, while the Cub Bear is ideal for caping and detailed work around the head and antlers. The D2 steel blades hold an edge incredibly well, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
The only minor weakness I’ve noticed is that the Cub Bear’s smaller handle can become slightly uncomfortable during extended use, but this is a tradeoff for its increased maneuverability. Overall, the combo exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of both knives is exceptional, with the Suregrip handles providing a secure and comfortable grip. The weight of the knives is well-balanced, making them easy to handle for extended periods. There’s no learning curve; the knives feel natural and intuitive to use from the first time you pick them up.
Durability & Maintenance
The D2 steel blades are incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, these knives should last for many years. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and sharpening.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Knives of Alaska Trekker Whitetail Hunter/Cub Bear D2 Knives Combo comes with a high-quality leather sheath that holds both knives securely. There aren’t many customization options available directly from Knives of Alaska, but the knives can be easily sharpened using standard sharpening tools.
Pros and Cons of Knives of Alaska Trekker Whitetail Hunter/Cub Bear D2 Knives Combo
Pros
- Exceptional Edge Retention: D2 steel holds its sharpness through multiple uses.
- Secure Grip: Suregrip handles provide excellent control, even in wet conditions.
- Versatile Combo: Includes both a skinning knife and a caping knife, covering all your needs.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand years of use in the field.
- Quality Leather Sheath: Provides safe and convenient carry.
Cons
- Cub Bear handle can become uncomfortable during extended use.
- Limited Customization Options: Not many aftermarket accessories available.
Who Should Buy Knives of Alaska Trekker Whitetail Hunter/Cub Bear D2 Knives Combo?
The Knives of Alaska Trekker Whitetail Hunter/Cub Bear D2 Knives Combo is perfect for serious hunters who process their own game. It’s also a great choice for anyone who values high-quality knives with excellent edge retention and secure grips.
Someone solely looking for a lightweight backpacking knife might find the combo to be heavier than necessary. Also, beginner hunters who aren’t ready to invest in higher-end knives might want to start with something more affordable.
A sharpening stone and honing steel are must-have accessories to maintain the edge of the D2 steel blades.
Conclusion on Knives of Alaska Trekker Whitetail Hunter/Cub Bear D2 Knives Combo
The Knives of Alaska Trekker Whitetail Hunter/Cub Bear D2 Knives Combo is an excellent investment for any serious hunter. The D2 steel blades provide exceptional edge retention, and the Suregrip handles ensure safe and comfortable handling in all conditions. The price is justified by the quality of the materials and the overall performance of the knives.
I would highly recommend this combo to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile set of knives for processing game. Invest in the Knives of Alaska Trekker Whitetail Hunter/Cub Bear D2 Knives Combo and experience the difference that quality knives can make.