(
Pros: Blade Material, Blade Sharpness, Ease of Opening, Handle Feel, Handle Material, Lock Ease of Use, Lock Type, Overall Quality, Pocket Clip
Cons: None
The best bushcraft folder?
Did Real Steel finally nail the scandi folder design? I have to admit, I had a bad experience with their Pathfinder. The edge crumbled the first time I tried to use it on wood. I returned the knife. However, the YAK is a different beast altogether. When it arrived, the first thing I did was test the edge on a hardwood dowel. The edge was keen and it did hold up. I noticed a tiny (very tiny) secondary bevel which I'm sure added strength to the edge. However, I did run the blade over some mouse pad backed 1500 grit to give it a wee bit of convexing, then stropped it on a mouse pad backed piece of leather, then I did a few passes on a small unsewn buffing wheel. The result was a screaming sharp edge that held up nicely when I did more carving with it. Carving fuzz sticks was a breeze. Excellent. The handle is large and very comfortable for carving. The backlock is solid. The spine is slightly chamfered so more comfortable for carving but not designed to make sparks from a ferro rod. No complaints from me on that issue. All in all, this is the folder that I think many bushcrafters will appreciate. And the price is awesome. A true bargain. Great job Real Steel!