I love 'em and so do a whole lotta' other folks! The Randall Model #3 is "still" the RMK shop's number "1" seller for a hunting knife. It's easy to see why. The trailing point blade skins, and butchers with outstanding results. It can butterfly backstraps and cut between the rib bones to pull your jerk meat out.
So...My everyday Model #3 has been shown on this forum more times then I can count (or recollect at my age). How about "yours"? What's your favorite Model #3: blade length, handle choice (shape "&" material). How about steel preference? Carbon or Stainless...and why?
Ya' got any oddballs, Wild-N-Wooly? Let's see them all and we may even conjure-up one to "build'!
What say you?
Stay Sharp, Capt. Chris

Don't have one to show. A build could help change that...

This is my latest endeavor...for the RKCC, along with a Model #4 to match.
Capt. Chris

A couple-a mine!

Thanks to you 2 for a response, at least. It is amazing as to the lack of participation here anymore. I'm done trying. If folks wanna' talk about Model 3's...have at it. I'll respond but I'm not about to waste another slot for a poorly-wanted RMK.
Best, Capt. Chris
PS: ...& to me "friends" who don't participate, you'll miss this shit when it's gone!
CCS

Patients grasshopper, some of us don't have our Model 3 pictures handy to post. I need a little time to put them together. I will hurry, but it will be tomorrow.

Pap

Has a model 3 been built here in the past? I ask because I've decided I "need" to order from the shop on my birthday in a couple weeks, and plan to in the future as well. While a catalog model would certainly work just fine, it would be great to see options and follow the thinking behind choosing them.

JerryG,
yes there has been a model 3 built here. I have it. I also have 4 more, including one that has stag as nice as the Capt’s. It took me 8 years to find what I wanted. And I do love my 3’s, They are all 3-5 , 3 with stag and 2 with black micarta.
Sorry Capt I just don’t have a way to make pictures except for a Iphone.
I do sincerely appreciate you and this group here. oldguy

Here's a nice'un....

Larry

Captain...here is my favorite Model 3-5"...Brass hilt..and Brass butt cap..it's real special to me 'cause I bought it from Perry Miller.

Here's my #3's. a variety of options

I really need to take better pictures. Both micartas are maroon and 2nd from top is a "recon" I got from Crutchtip

Mike,
My comments were not directed at you. To the contrary, Mike. You have "always" responded with + comments and info. People prefer Facebook these days...& I JUST DON'T GET IT! 20 minutes later your posts and all historical input (If there even "is" any) are gone! "BUT" make sure you respond with a "like"!
Thanks, Capt. Chris

Only model 3 I have is the recent RKCC offering.



Capt is just grumpy because he ain't out deer hunting.

Capt and Rob,I really like the wood handles

Mine is shop supplied Indian Rosewood.

Judging from previous conversations, there have been some less-than-stunning rosewood handles passed around.

I haven't had that experience. So far they've all looked really nice, starting with the pair of Sasquatches I bought back in 2018.

Bob t,
What is a recon?
Thanks
Walker

It was a limited run of 100 knives that crutchtip put together. It is on this forum. search "recon"

Got it!
Walker

My favourite (and only) Nr. 3. Received it about 3 weeks ago.

My favourite has:

5" tool steel blade, because it's about the ideal blade length (for me) for a multitude of tasks, and I like tool steel over stainless because of edge holding and fineness of edge.

Nickel silver guard and buttcap, because that really adds some class.

India stag (supplied by myself) because I really like natural handle materials and this stag has some nice texture.

Picture is not very good, but hopefully you get the idea.

=)

James!!!
I love it!!
off thread...I know
BUT I don't have a #3 to show off...poor me

:-(Rocky

I don't have a #3... "BUT" you posted the pic of my favorite #3 already! A build would definitely be a lot of fun!!! Especially on a #3.

Picture this in your imagination:
Model 3-6", Stainless, Brass Single Hilt, Brass and Black Spacers, Shop Supplied Stag, Compass Installed, Wrist Thong, Brown Sheath, and an additional High Ride Sheath.
I got the High Ride from Mitchell before the Blade Show and asked Gary Clinton to help me fill it with the right knife.
I received it in November and did not take a picture yet.
I am in the Florida Keys for my January escape from the cold and the wild fires of Colorado.
Went out with a guide from Marathon and my wife and I limited out on Yellowtail Snapper.
If I had my Model 3 with me, I would not have used it to cut up bait.







And of course, I can never go boating without a visit to check my legality

Oh my, yellowtail snapper!!! The most delicious of all the snappers, and that's saying something! Will you fix them or take to a restaurant that will cook your catch? Great pictures.

Pap

What Pappy asked!
Or get a restaurant to fix some; fix a couple more back at the house for you and the lovely wife; AND freeze and take home several pounds for the family, friends and buddies cookout. Beautiful catch!
Really making me long for another Hatteras offshore, inshore, Pamlico Sound, Alligator River outing.
Thanks for posting, David, and please feel free to post some more.

We rented a house with a grill and have had a couple of nights of grilled snapper. They also make great sandwiches the next day.
I got a quart of Lobster Sauce from Lazy Days Restaurant and my wife made a caper, lemon, butter sauce that both go well with the snapper.
All will be eaten before we leave, and there will be none for anyone back in Colorado, unless we go out again.
These are the days we dream about during the cold winter nights.

We could be using a Randall 3 for cutting bait, cleaning fish, cutting line, defending our catch from the Pelicans, cutting tomatoes for dinner, and scraping the barnacles off the boat(returning this thread to the subject)

Figured someone had better pull this thread back on track before that salty Cap shows up again!!

This is two of my 3-5's both with stag... Anybody recognize the top one?

Gonna need some help Mike...


https://photos.app.goo.gl/RecGaUT5o8chNjnU7

Not sure about the top one but the one on the bottom looks familiar.

Scott’s pic

DW .... Isn't that top #3 in the Catalog???

Bing! Bing!! Bing!!! Congratulations sir u have won an all expense paid trip to... Well...no where

Front cover knife, I had this made for a very good friend and avid hunter but he could not bring himself to use "such a work of art"...so I traded him an ugly 25-5 (as if there was one)!

This Model 3-5" is my favorite "user". It's shown along with another of my favorites!

Here is my user. It already had a lot of patina on it when I bought it, but I have added some.

Great looking knife. Premium stag, but it is the unique spacer arrangement that makes the knife special, IMO.

I agree Rod,
Cool spacer stack! Everyone else also...thanks for some input and ideas! More to come...
Best, Capt. Chris

Here's my 3-5's

Lots of 3-5's, some real beauties too. Why no love for the 3-6's, wasn't that Bo's favorite?

The recent RKCC model 3s (posted by Capt Chris and myself) are all 6" with #6 grind.

Brother Billy,
I thought you couldn't use the internet?
Huh? Good to see ya' back!
Capt. Chris

Randall Model #3-5" from the Captain's STASH! Handle material is stabilized green box elder.
Best, Capt. Chris

Just-cause JerryG was asking, here's another Captain's STASH Model #3. This time in 6" with nice popcorn stag. 6" should also be considered for this build. This one also has "two-tone" hardware.
Stay Sharp, Capt. Chris

Build?

What build?

Did I miss something?

Larry

Thanks for going to all that trouble to show me a #3-6" Capt, killer stag too!

Sure hoping this turns into a build, I'm in the market...

Here's 2 Vietnam-era Model #3-7 inchers...
Best, Capt. Chris

Thanks for posting those 3's in my favorite stag Captain. Gorgeous every one. I haven't seen a whole lot of vintage 3's with crown stag, and here is my only one.

Boy:
Thanks Will. After a slow start we have had some nice examples of my favorite hunting knife! Thanks to everyone and please, keep 'em coming!
Now: The possible build: If we're going to do this, we need to start with blade length. Here are the choices:
These are all available, currently:
A) 5 inch
B) 6 inch
C) 7 inch
ROLL CALL VOTE! Vote for one & one only...and feel free to state your case!
Thanks, Capt. Chris

Model #3-6" in red/blue micarta.
Best, Capt. Chris

That 6” looks good but I believe the 5 suits me better for carrying purposes.
Walker

I have aways thought the 5" had a more balanced look.

5 inch

A) 5-inch.

That is plenty of blade for most things.

Larry

The red and black is beautiful.

Would like to see the leading edges of the exposed red pointed toward the butt, "but" maybe a bit much to ask.

I know we are not in a selection mode yet, just commenting on the nice example.

Larry

5 inch

A) 5 inch

A- 5 inch

5 inch

Pap

A 5 inch

Swimming against the tide here, but my vote is 6”. Really like those 6” examples the Capt. posted.

And here’s another #3-6”, BUT with a #6 grind; and added a waxed sheath because I like ‘em sometimes. I think it turned out perfect this time, even with these not so great, straight outta’ the butcher paper pics.

C

Tom Flynn

A

Anybody got a picture of a #3-5” with a #6 grind?

A) 5”

Steve:
The 5 inch is not available in a #6. I have (& so does Mason, I think) in a 4"?
Best, Capt. Chris

Tom,
Here's 7 incher..."Dressed-In-Black". # 6 blade grind and squared hilt...
Stay Sharp, Capt. Chris

A) 5 inch

A) 5 inch

I think I will change my vote to a 6" to get the #6 grind. Was looking forward to a 5" with the #6 grind,but if that's not possible, then 6" for me.

Pap

B-6"

Thanks Cap; that's a beauty!

Tom Flynn

Cap is on the way to the oral surgeon and will return home
later today.He ask that I get a count.
A={5} 10
B-{6} 3
C-{7} 1

Looks to me we're building a 5"at this point, but I'm voting anyways.

B) 6 inch

DAMN!
(but thanks, Captain)
Please mark me down for 6" so it can be #6 grind.
_________________________
-Steve
RKCC CM-066
RKS #258

6” blade (for a #6 grind) for me.

We’re gaining on the “fivers”.

B- 6 inch

I'm flippen' for the #6 Grind! B...

I'll flip for 6" w/#6 grind

Sorry I've been out of pocket today guys. I'm undergoing some not-so-pleasant work and at it again @ 1040 AM tomorrow! I'll need to go in and "add-n-subtract" to get a final count. Let's wrap this tomorrow evening...what say you?
Best for now,
Capt. Chris

No Rush... Need some more Flippers!!!!!! #6 w.a 6 grind!!!!!!!

OK, you've convinced me...6" w/ 6-9 grind...

Model 3-6 with a Model 6 grind would fit my high ride sheath.
Count me in for 6"
Thank you for doing a build.

Alright!! Officially switching from a 5” to a 6”-#6 grind. I’m the guy who posted a pic of my #3-6” with the #6 grind, the only #3 that I have. So why not go with the size and grind I like most (for many reasons) instead of the 5” because l “don’t have one yet?”
SO, imagine we still need a few more “switchers?”
And no worries Dave. The good Captain’s Builds always include a sheath😉

B) 6 inch

Flip or flop...

It is still a nice knife.

Just to "maybe" be different, I will stick with 5" but would be happy with 6" if that's what leads the votes.

Larry

Like Duke, my only model 3 is the 6" with a model-6 grind (pictured above).

I'm sticking to my 5" vote. I already have a 6" built to how I like it!

OK Crew:
Well: Billy's count was incorrect, as best I can tell. We "had" 13 votes for a 5"...B-4 the revolution. Now: we have this:
5" 7
6" 15
7" 1
I'll give til tomorrow evening, then we'll build the majority vote and move on to "other" possible options.
Thanks, Capt. Chris

Enlighten me on the reasons for a 6" with #6 grind please. Thinner grind on the blade better for slicing I'm guessing?

for me, I dont have one

[quote=JerryG]Enlighten me on the reasons for a 6" with #6 grind please. Thinner grind on the blade better for slicing I'm guessing? [/quote

Yes Jerry, the #6 grind, to me, makes for a better all around, multi purpose model, than the Model 3 regular grind. Funny that the smaller Model 7-4" can be ordered with the #6 grind, but not the Model 3-5".

Pap

You know, to think about it, various models are similar.

The Denmark
The GTR
Model 7
Model 6
Model 21
Model 27
Model 27 Miniature

Proportions are within similar range as the Model 6 choices discussed here, blades having similar (but admittedly different) grind lines, but some are shorter than can be gotten on the Model 6.

"But" not all of them offer the opportunity to get options on the steel or the handle, etc., which is the reason to run a "build."

And cannot get the Model 6-9 grind with its thinner blade on some of them.

Which reminds me that I don't have all those other models yet....

Larry

Model 10s have a similar grind as well.

It really shows up in the 10-5s and 10-7s.

The 7-4 1/2" is available in #6 grind because it is, basically, a Model #6-4 1/2", Steak Knife. (to answer a previous post). I use a #3-6, #6 more than I do my #6-9" for carving, yet it is short enough for the woods..."OR"...The boat!
Best, Capt. Chris

I dearly like my 3-6 stag. It has the regular grind. A 3-6 with the #6 grind would be a beauty too.

Is it possible to get a #6 with a full single hilt?

Pap

What do you mean Mike? "Full single hilt"? You talking about squared top? A double hilt...Explain, thanks.
CCS

To kinda piggyback Mike/pappy19's question...

How much are you allowed to change on the #6 steak knife?

Good question--

If we order a 6 Steak Knife, can we get a single hilt on it instead of the reduced hilt?

Larry

Instead of the Steak knife just try the Denmark Special. It comes with #6 grind and single hilt with stag or any other shop supplied handle material. Plus it is a much sturdier knife. oldguy

I have no answer for these questions. Why would you want a single hilt on a steak knife? A #7-4 1/2", with a #6 grind already "has" a single hilt??
Just sayin',
Capt. Chris

So a Model 7-4.5" with a #6 grind is exactly the same a a Model 6 only the #6 comes with reduced hilt?

Pap

Capt. Chris--

I was just trying to understand the other questions that were posted.

One reason to "opt" for the Model 6 instead of the Model 7 is the Model 6 already comes in stainless, and with stag, but both of these would be chargeable options on the Model 7.

"But"...thinking of others, the GTR offers what looks like a similar grind profile as the Model 6...and comes in Stainless, Single Hilt, and Stag...as standard. That is "if" somebody wanted to get a blade that is 1-inch shorter than the Model 6.

Tradeoffs, tradeoffs.

Looks like some of us have strayed from the build, so I won't meander anymore.

Larry

Model #6 does "not" come with a sheath either...just a felt pouch (case: if you will). It sells for $515.00. Yes: #6-4 1/2" and a #7-4 1/2"-#6 are the same blade...Carbon "or" stainless is available on the #7.
CCS

So...obviously we're building a the following, thus far:
* RMK Model #3-6 inch
* #6 blade grind (Option #1)
Feel free to speak yer' peace on "what else"
Thanks,
Capt. Chris
PS: Per Scott (Thanks Scott) Model #3-5" with the #6 grind idea was abandoned with the introduction of the Denmark Special...as: "No need for both"!
Makes sense...CCS

Just a thought: Whatdoya' gonna use it for. Some talk about this "may" lead to some "light bulb" moments! For instance, if I were going to Northern New Mexico on an elk hunt, "I" (your mileage may vary) would want to consider camp use as well as skinning. I would "not" want a handle material that was "slick", nor too heavy, etc.
I would also like a compass...(Just-Cause) and a wrist thong to hang the knife up while I'm diving in with both hands, removing the cornucopia of guts associated with bigger critters!
But...That's just me.
What about you?
Stay Sharp,
Capt. Chris

The "cornucopia" suggests the Good Captain might also take along...

https://www.iherdsman.com/product/artificial-insemination-gloves

But, of course, he will pack them out along with all else not biodegradable.

Larry

What would I use it for? Everything! Camp knife, hunting and fishing (that #6 grind could have been handy for filleting the northern pike we got thru the ice last weekend!). I find myself more and more needing a thinner grind than is on the typical 1/4" stock knives I usually carry.

Compass for sure....just cuz! Rules out leather, thuya burl would match my single hilt 15. I don't usually find a need for a wrist thong, but I'm not opposed to it. Thumb notches because my thumb finds it's way there more often than not.

Cap
What are the latest shop micarta options and do you have any others to add from your "stash"? Also is a "Ward Gay" shaped handle possible on a Model 3?

Pap

Ward Gay is "only" available on the #20, Ward Gay...no exceptions. RMK shop-supplied micarta is as follows:
* Black
* Green
* Maroon
* Red & blue
...That's it! Ivorite has been discontinued.
Hope this helps, Capt. Chris
PS: Yes Mike...You "KNOW" I got stuff in my STASH!...CCS

OK...Show of hands: How many are "still in" for this build?
Thanks, Capt. Chris

In-Red & Blue Micarta

Tom Flynn

I’m interested in how it proceeds for sure. As always, I’m learning some important points!
Walker

in

I'm in....

In.

Larry

My hands up…..I’m in.

Hi, I already have a #3 stag with finger grooves. It's one of my favorites. So I'm still fence sitting. Half of the Randalls I own are Stag with finger grooves, regards, Mike

In

In like Flynn

Me

Pap

I have no idea if we will wind up with a stag, finger-gripped handle...or not? We'll see.
Capt. Chris

Hanging in like Gunga Din.
1-Stainless
2-#6 grind
3-Nickel silver hilt
Red spacers no charge
4-Red & Blue Micarta
5-Wrist Thong

Carbon steel-NC
NS hilt squared-1
All red spacers-NC
Blue/Red micarta-2
Wrist thong-3
Compass-4
Thumb notches-5

Pap

In.
.

#3-6 inch
#6 blade grind
Stainless
Nickel silver
Micarta or Ironwood handle
Finger grooves

I’m just joining in.

I’d like Green Micarta … I don’t see that much Green Micarta.
And Finger Grips.

Tony

I’m in and I’d like to see Stag and FGs.

I'm in!

I’m in. Black Micarta. With Finger Grips.

Just when you think your out... They pull ya back IN!!!! I like Billy P's Set Up!!!!!

All In

Hey Captain,

In.

What Tony likes is great.

Just to clarify preferences:
#3-6”, with #6 grind
SS blade
NS Hilt
Red/Blue micarta
Thumb Notches

Glad to see we still have a strong nucleus of support for this fine knife. Let's get started, from the blade back, and decide exactly "what" we're building.
I know a bunch of you have written out, in it's entirety, exactly what you want. That doesn't men it is what "we" are going to build. For members not familiar with the process, we "vote" on the options (or not) and the knife gets built to "those specs"...majority rules. This sometimes causes us to lose a few along the way..."BUT"...so would building the knife to a "few" members preferences.
Let's begin: We are building:
* RMK Model #3-6 inch
* #6 blade grind (Option #1)
How about steel? Which do "you" prefer? Stainless or Carbon? Let us begin with this option (or not, if carbon is decided) and move on afterwards. Remember: A total of "5" options "can" be used. That doesn't mean we "have" to use 'em all. Please state "why" you prefer your steel choice.
Some members are building their first project while others are seasoned veterans. It will be interesting and informative to see what we decide!
Stay Sharp, Capt. Chris
PS: If it were going to be "my" knife, I would only use "4" options....Just Sayin'...CCS

Captain is implying "carbon."

That is OK with me.

Larry

Stainless

Cap,

3-6 6-grind carbon steel-I do not have one and would like to pickle/olive juice finish the blade.

Tom Flynn

Carbon... for Pirate Pickling Preferences

Carbon

Pap

I was not Larry. I already have one on order for me and it has "4" options. In other words, I was implying there isn't "necessarily" a need to use "5" to make a great knife...that's all.
Capt. Chris

Carbon

Stainless

Capt. Chris--

OK. I understand.

I know you like carbon, so just speculated.

By the way, how many do you need?

Oh...I forgot.

"Need" has nothing to do with it.

Larry

Hi, Stainless, Mike

Late as usual.

"But In for the steel", carbon of course.

Carbon

Carbon

Carbon