I don't like the fact that the Northwind has no guard of any type <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbdn.gif" alt="" />.
The handle is long enough that I can hold it in the back or at the front of the micarta with about 1.5 inches of hand placement. The first 1.5 inch of the blade in front of the micarta is not sharpened on mine. But, I do feel there is too much potential for an accident.
It may feel secure enough at times, but like you mentioned, it CAN be slippery and there is the potential to strike something in such a way that the blade could be forced back and cause my hand to slide up a VERY sharp blade <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" /> .
One accident like that would probably end my ability to use ANY knife with that hand <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/sad.gif" alt="" /> .
I don't like to think about that!
I am trying to come up with a better option than the Northwind! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crossfingers.gif" alt="" />
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