Hello everyone. I've decided to order a new Randall for kayaking. So far, I've narrowed the choices down to three, a 5-4,a 10-3, or a tri-athlete. It'll live on my PFD, and be used for cutting whatever needs cutting. I live in northern Michigan, so I'm not worried about undesirable critters trying do a hostile takeover of my vessel. It'll be used mostly for day fishing and day trips. As always,all thoughts and comments are welcome. Let the discussion begin.

Brent,

The Triathlete would be great. I would see if you could get a kydex sheath made for it or maybe just a universal nylon with a velcro flap. I think Uncle Mikes makes one.

The triathlete's best qualities are that it's thin or you can have someone throw a handle on it.

Since it doesn't sound like you particularly need a knife with a thin-profile in the handle, I'd go with one of the other two.

I'm really liking the 5-4 I picked up recently, wear it almost daily with a pouch sheath from Warlander Leather.

For boating, the 5-4 is best optioned with the stainless blade and WT.

Or.. the 10-3 comes with that by default.

Can't go wrong with either, really.

(ETA) Warren snuck one in while I was replying. I'm not specifically disagreeing with Warren, just my opinion on the triathlete.

For me,it would be a Model 5-5" with the Bradford Angier setup. Hands down the best for any occasion one might encounter. Second choice is a Cattleman's, comes with a pouch sheath. Also consider a Model 7-4 too. One never knows what situations you might run into, but anytime you are around water, a wrist thong is invaluable,not to mention having a compass on your knife on a cloudy or foggy day. Been there.

Pap

I may help if you told the decision-helpers your price range.
Just sayin', Capt. Chris

Thanks Rob.

Brent,

Just my opinion but fastening the sheath should be your primary consideration no matter what knife you choose. . A standard belt loop probably won't work very well to a PFD. If you do decide on a Triathlete the clip might work out well. You will probably want to wax the heck out of the stock leather. Also drill a drain hole in whatever sheath you decide. Water is going in that sheath guaranteed.

Brent, I'm thinking I'd rather have too much knife rather than not enough knife. The 5-4 would be my choice.
Doug

I'm really leaning towards the 5-4, but the suggestion of the Cattleman has merits, namely the sheepfoot blade, less likely to poke myself.

How will it be carried: belt, backpack, vest attached with D-ring, pocket

I'm thinking it'll be attached to the vest with a D ring.