Not "traditional" but....

[mongrel]

As soon as my checking account recovers from the price tag of a complete new rear end in the truck (amazing what probably started as a single sheared gear tooth inside a transfer case will do, after a few days of not realizing that occasional "clunk" and slight thumping sensation was NOT something shifting in the bed of the truck), one of these three variations of the same model will be my belated Christmas/birthday present to myself.

These are Blackjack Model 125 hunting knives, which come standard with 5" slightly-drop-pointed blades. The variations shown are natural micarta, ivory micarta, and leather. When the time comes it'll be a matter of what's available at the best price -- I don't have enough of a serious preference that I'll hold out for a specific one of the three. Though the ivory was the first to catch my eye, and still does....

The one quibble I have with these knives is the amount of contrasting spacers they've used where the guards and pommels meet the grips, but it is what it is and I will very cheerfully live with it.

These are near-copies of the Randall #5 Camp And Trail knife, which to my way of thinking is the perfect hunting knife except for the minor details of a $360 price tag and a several-year wait to order a new one straight from Randall (used ones for sale tend to run much, much higher). The blades of the Blackjack versions are hollow-ground A-2 tool steel, 1/4" thick, the price somewhat less than half what a Randall runs. Soon....

[Papa]

Mike,
Although I also like the ivory micarta handle, The spacers are not as prominent in the leather handled knife. Tough choice, nice knives. Hope you and the family have a wonderful Chtistmas and a safe, happy and healthy New Year.
Mark

[beowulf]

yep! that would be a tough choice indeed , but I would also lean more to the ivory micarta ! although the leather would also be a good choice !  which ever one you end up with you`ll be getting a fine knife ! 

[graybear]

All nice knives. The ivory does look good but I would probably get the leather washers. But your knife, your choice. That's why they have different models & handles.

[mongrel]

I am advised by a hunter who has dressed out many more deer than I have, that leather over time breaks down and becomes bacteria-friendly -- not a good thing on a knife that's going to be converting a carcass into my next several months' worth of meat. Even if this is unlikely in any kind of normal usage, it's easy for me to heed that advice -- I like the two micartas better anyhow.

[Papa]

Mike,
The last sentence is the best reason to get a micarta handle.
Mark

[Mongo40]

After checking out all there knives, I think I like the stag handled one myself.

[mongrel]

About the only one I DON'T care for is the green micarta, and even that I'd probably (sigh) force myself to live with if for some reason that's what I ended up with.