Episode Summary: Live Wild with Remi Warren – Ep. 153 | All About Hunting Knives - Interview with Josh Smith from Montana Knife Company
In Episode 153 of Live Wild with Remi Warren, host Remi Warren delves deep into the essential topic of hunting knives, accompanied by special guest Josh Smith from Montana Knife Company (MKC). This comprehensive discussion explores the intricacies of hunting knife construction, material choices, sharpening techniques, and ergonomic design, providing invaluable insights for both novice and seasoned hunters.
1. Introduction to Hunting Knives and the Guest
Remi Warren opens the episode by introducing Josh Smith, a seasoned knife maker with over 43 years of experience in the craft [02:33]. Josh brings his extensive knowledge from MKC, highlighting the significance of hunting knives in a hunter's gear arsenal—a subject often overshadowed by discussions on other gear like rainwear or optics.
Notable Quote:
"People talk so much about gear in the hunting world, but nobody really ever deep dives or spends a lot of time thinking about their knife." – Josh Smith [03:45]
2. The Importance of Quality in Hunting Knives
Josh emphasizes the decline in knife quality over the years due to mass production and outsourcing. He reminisces about an era when knives were predominantly handmade, ensuring durability and functionality.
Notable Quote:
"We lost some quality and some of the things that make a really good knife... with replaceable blade knives and the Chinese stuff being made didn't have the heart and soul." – Josh Smith [04:00]
He underscores the sentimental value of knives, often passed down through generations, unlike other gear that is easily discarded [05:14]. This legacy aspect sets quality knives apart as enduring tools.
3. Construction and Material of Hunting Knives
Edge Geometry
A key topic Josh discusses is edge geometry—the shape and sharpening of the knife's edge. He explains that the angle and bevel of the blade significantly impact its performance and maintenance in the field.
Notable Quote:
"How the blade is ground from the spine all the way to the edge is basically that angle or that bevel as it rolls in." – Josh Smith [06:00]
He points out that a thinner, well-ground edge reduces resistance when cutting through hides and hair, essential for a successful hunt.
Steel Types: Carbon Steel vs. Magnacut
Josh contrasts traditional carbon steel with MKC’s proprietary steel, Magnacut. While carbon steel is easier to sharpen, it is prone to rust and loses its edge faster. Magnacut, on the other hand, offers superior toughness and edge retention without compromising the ability to resharpen in the field.
Notable Quote:
"Magnacut is extremely tough and has long wear resistance, holding an edge for a long time. But with high hardness, it’s harder to sharpen." – Josh Smith [08:38]
He explains the balance between hardness and toughness, crucial for ensuring the knife can withstand rigorous tasks without becoming brittle [09:34].
4. Sharpening Hunting Knives
Traditional vs. Reverse Sharpening Techniques
Remi shares his struggles with traditional sharpening methods and learns from Josh about a more efficient reverse technique. Josh advocates for dragging the blade backwards on the stone to create a burr, ensuring a sharper and more durable edge.
Notable Quote:
"You're dragging that edge across the stone, and you can actually feel a burr rising on the other side." – Josh Smith [17:01]
This method allows for more precise sharpening, preventing the edge from being overly worn or unevenly sharpened [19:45].
Sharpening Tools
Josh discusses various sharpening tools, including diamond stones for field use and finer bench stones for home use. He emphasizes the importance of selecting the right grit based on the knife's condition and the type of use it will endure.
Notable Quote:
"A nice little fine diamond is perfect for the field because you don't want to carry oil or water." – Josh Smith [31:38]
He also introduces MKC's custom-designed sharpening stone, tailored specifically for their knives’ edge geometry [26:16].
5. Knife Design and Ergonomics
Custom Knife Design Process
The conversation shifts to the design elements of MKC knives, particularly the Elkhorn Skinner developed in collaboration with Remi. Josh explains the meticulous process of refining the knife’s handle and blade to match Remi’s specific needs as a guide and hunter.
Notable Quote:
"This handle feels like it was custom ground on a belt, giving it a peaceful, natural feel." – Josh Smith [40:34]
Features of the Elkhorn Knife
The Elkhorn Knife is highlighted for its shorter blade, larger belly, and ergonomic handle designed for comfort during prolonged use. Its robust build ensures it can handle tasks like skinning and quartering without compromising control or safety.
Notable Quote:
"This is so much different than all of our other knives. It’s like a shorter, stubbier skinning knife that’s absolutely badass." – Josh Smith [50:19]
Remi praises the knife’s performance, noting its seamless integration into his hunting workflow and its immediate effectiveness in the field [52:52].
6. Sheaths and Carrying Solutions
Josh addresses the often-overlooked aspect of knife sheaths, which are crucial for safe and accessible carrying. MKC’s sheaths are designed for versatility, allowing hunters to attach their knives securely to pack straps or belts with reliable retention screws.
Notable Quote:
"The sheath snaps into place with a retention screw so you damn near can't get it out." – Josh Smith [46:04]
He emphasizes the importance of secure sheaths to prevent accidental loss and ensure the knife is readily available when needed, sharing anecdotes of how improper sheaths can lead to dangerous situations [47:55].
7. Launch of the Elkhorn Knife
The episode culminates with the announcement of the Elkhorn Knife's release. Josh and Remi discuss the knife’s limited availability and encourage listeners to act quickly during the drop to secure their own MKC Elkhorn knives.
Notable Quote:
"These knives are made in America and fully handcrafted by American workers, ensuring top quality." – Josh Smith [54:29]
Josh invites listeners to join MKC’s email list for future releases and emphasizes the unique features that set the Elkhorn Knife apart from mass-produced alternatives [55:35].
8. Conclusion and Additional Gear Recommendations
In the closing segment, Remi shifts focus to another essential hunting gear—Stone Glacier packs. He shares his favorite models, highlighting their capacity and durability, essential for carrying large game like elk during multi-day hunts. Remi endorses the Skytallus 6900 and Sky Guide 7900 packs, offering listeners a discount code “livewild” for free shipping [56:10].
Notable Quote:
"Having a quality pack that can carry the weight and distribute it makes a big difference." – Remi Warren [56:10]
Remi wraps up the episode by emphasizing the importance of a reliable knife and accompanying gear, encouraging hunters to stay sharp both literally and figuratively for successful hunts.
Key Takeaways
- Quality Matters: Investing in a well-constructed hunting knife like those from MKC ensures longevity and reliability in the field.
- Edge Geometry and Steel Type: Understanding the balance between hardness and toughness in knife steel is crucial for performance and maintenance.
- Sharpening Techniques: Adopting effective sharpening methods can significantly enhance a knife’s usability and lifespan.
- Ergonomic Design: A knife tailored to a hunter’s specific needs can improve efficiency and safety during hunting tasks.
- Secure Carry Solutions: Proper sheaths and carrying methods are essential to keep the knife accessible and safe.
Final Thoughts
This episode of Live Wild with Remi Warren serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding the complexities of hunting knives. Through insightful discussions with Josh Smith, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind quality hunting tools and the practical aspects of maintaining and using them effectively in the wild.
For more detailed information on the Elkhorn Knife and other Montana Knife Company products, listeners are encouraged to visit JMitsubishi Warren's website and subscribe to MKC’s email list for updates on future releases and special offers.
Stay sharp and happy hunting!