So I did promise you guys a small review once I got the grunt.
Note, this is a very, very short test. I only did the very simple tasks. Once Cloak gets his DMDC, we might do a more extensive test including the RMD, Grunt, CSK, Nimravus, and other medium/small blades that we have. We will also do much more than just the usual. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />
The test I did yesterday night was just between the RMD and Grunt. It was wet and I was really satisfied when I finished the test. Both knives were stropped and were very sharp.
At the time, it was fairly dark.
Just before the test I was able to catch the flock of geese in the picture above. They flew right over me.
On with the simple test.
Here are the two knives side by side on the test log.
First was the 25 chop test.
Then I did a little fuzzing up.
RMD fuzziness.
Grunt fuzziness.
When I finished it was still quite dark.
That was about it for the test. As I said it was quick and simple test. I also did the test with leather gloves.
Conclusion:
On the 25 chop test, the grunt was better. It is a larger knife and can generate more force. The convex ground was amazing at this area. It bit really deep and was fairly quick at chopping. If the Grunt can out chop the RMD, it will definitely out chop the DMDC. The handle on the grunt was comfortable as long as my hand did not slip to end. The RMDs handle was also very comfortable, however, I would frequently slip as I was wearing gloves.
On making the fuzzy sticks, the convex grind failed me. The RMD, possibly because it was been stropped so much, was much easier in slicing wood. The convex ground would bite, proceed along the log for a fair amount and just pop out the slice of wood. It was annoying.
I really like both knives. I have finally found the perfect replacement for my CSK. The Grunt is larger and probably better than my CSK. I also really do like the convex ground on the knife. It is very well done. Cloak was also nice enough to give me some 600 grit wet&dry sand paper for me to sharpen on. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />
My only complaint is the handle on the Grunt. The sudden drop in the last bit of the handle is really annoying when I chopped with it. My pinky finger would get constantly jammed. The Res-C handles of has remedied that problem with a more shallow slope and a stickier grip. The Kraton handles are well molded and are still comfortable.
If I have time today or tomorrow I might do a little more testing on these two knives. Specifically whittling points and batoning.
I'll also do a more formal and elongated conclusion once I do a little more extensive testing.
(little side note - Cloak and I WILL do more testing on the smaller knives that we have. He's hoping to be getting his DMDC soon so we can test it <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crossfingers.gif" alt="" /> )