The LE is more versatile and it chops just fine. It is fast in the hand, so it could serve as a weapon or as a machete better than the heavier CG model, imo.
Had not considered machete work. DFLE has an advantage there due to extra 3/4" length and full flat grind.
But, my BR has been satin for so long, I temporarily forgot I had to strip it and work on it for so long to make it satin.
I love the look of satin and prefer it when I can get it. DFLE has an advantage there as my BR is coated. I will get around to stripping my BR eventually as I planned to do that when I bought it as a user. Is SR101 dimple-prone like Infi?
This thread has confirmed my inital feelings that any of these three are a great big knife. The DF LE is probably the hybrid amongst these three, and as such has slightly more versatility.
In a VERY tight personal race, I think that the DF LE wins for me. Here's why...
- 3/4" longer than the BR
- almost the same weight as the BR
- full flat grind is nice and keeps the blade narrow
- satin finish is beautiful and easy to refresh
- 2'nd place travel friendly (behind the BR)
- 2'nd place chopping (behind the DFCG)
- 1'st place batoning
- 1'st place machete work
- 2'nd place fighter (behind the BR)
- 2'nd place detail work (behind the BR)
- 2'nd place toughness (behind the DFCG
The DF LE wins because it does a lot of things well without any big weaknesses.
I would be happy with all three in the bush! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />
