How well does it keep its edge and stay sharp assuming clean wood? Notable differences between wet(live) and dry wood?
1759655
one large oak was enough to dull it, but that is cutting the tree down and trunks and branches to manageable pieces. All in all I would say it stayed sharper longer than any other chain I've used.
939236
It is a great knife, I generally use it in the kitchen or for skinning and butchering large wild game. The newer models aren't as sturdy as the older models but they are still a good full tang knife with a sturdy handle. Easily sharpened but blade thickness is slim so not practical for wood and they rust easily.
844328
It's a great, sharp blade; but will tend to rust if not kept dry and maybe oiled. I've had mine for years and it's still rockin!
494311
the blade seems to hold an edge, and is very quiet. My only complaint is that it is a pain in the butt to clean, meat seems to get everywhere.Hope this was of some help to you.Dean
1768528
Like others have said, no knife is truly maintenance free. Because it is a carbon steel blade, it can rust or discolor. Just a light swipe with just about any type of oil and wipe it dry and you will have no problems. Naturally, the more it is used, the more it will need to be sharpened. It is easy to sharpen and keeps a nice edge. That is why these knives are so popular.
1438035
Not "sharp" edges, but you do have to press them a little firmly to operate. I like that, so you aren't accidentally turning on/off during use. Maybe it's worth a trip to a sporting goods store for you to test out before you buy?
1393248
No splintering or other problems with this board. Scrubbing with a brush and periodic oiling are worthwhile maintenance.
1239240
I've had it for a month today, the 11th. It came to me out of the box, Sharp as a razor. It is used daily for random little things. As of today it is still sharp enough to take the hair off my arm. I am not too sure as to how well it Sharpens, but it stays pretty sharp for a long time. If you want a knife that wont cost you a fortune, then go with this one. You will not be let down by it.
1605768
Sorry for the delayed answer, but no the edge are not sharp. It is quite comfortable to handle. Cheers!
664226
I have found the straight edge to be a great tool when it is secure to the wood being cut. However, the straight edge needs some support or you are trying to balace the additional length of the straight edge during your cut. If your work surface is sufficient, in my experience this is not a problem. Overall, the instrument is light weight and very useful for its intended purpose.
1098285
IIRC, out of the box the blade was good and sharp.If you sharpen your own, you'll *love* the way this thing takes an edge. My Zetsurin is just about the sharpest thing I own. After a bit of work ;)
1605059
it is very durable a normal sharpner should do the trick. and always clean and oil it asap after each use.
2217209
It is good for choppin' and dicin'. Feels a lot sharper than my other knives. I try to avoid whackin' bones or cutting bolts and keep it clean and dry.
91448
It is smooth. As you said, it supply's a straight edge to tear it. It does give a very clean cut.
258111
I haven't done it personally, but it's definitely a great machine and should have no problem with the right blade. Cuts through thick, hard wood with no problem - probably more taxing than thin metal done slowly?
885210
it's incredibly smooth on everything i've cut. i've cut oak, pine, poplar and ash. I recently went to cabinet making shop and they use this same blade in all their saws. They're great blades!
939237
Heavy blade is easy enough to sharpen and stays sharp. Handles are tough. Its kind of big but it will take a beating. Not sure as I use it in the kitchen. If I wanted an outdoor survival style knife Id spend a bit more and go with a U.S. made k-bar style. Just my 2 cents. Good luck Ron