I don't have specific pictures (except for the two below), but Ban reshapes and replaces handles pretty often. I've seen a lot of people smooth out their machined handles.

Here's a set he replaced on his AK.

Wow...Hey Mr. Pink havent seen Ban in the forum for awhile? Hear from him lately?

That is very nice work. Is the NMSFNO grip like the HR?

Yeah, he's been real busy with everything. He has his family business he needs to help run and he started a new job with his friend, plus his two daughters (one newborn), so knife stuff isn't his priority, but things are getting less hectic and he should be getting more time in the shop now. I'll see him sometime this week and see what's up.

You are welcome. But, that is not a CGFBM. That is the NMFBM which is about 1.5" longer in blade and oal compared to the CGFBM.

Both the CGFBM and the DFLE have 10.0" blades.

The NMFBM has an 11.5" blade.






Me too. I am a pretty big fan of INFI as a knife steel even if it wasn't as UBER-tough as it is. It takes and holds a great edge and isn't unreasonable to sharpen. Although it will rust, it is better than most any non-stainless steel.

I still say SR-101 has similar edge qualities, but not as tough and nowhere near as corrosion resistant. But, SR-101 is still PLENTY tough IMO as I have never seen one break. And I find I can maintain it plenty well - even stripped <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> .





<img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" /> - I can't say I understand. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />

A lot of people LOVE the HHFSH. I used to have one and sold it. I remember thinking I just thought it was a little too thick and massive to carry and not quite the chopper or versatility of my Battle Rat. It felt more like a short sledge hammer .... Although, a VERY cool one. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" /> .... I loved fondling it. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

After selling, I kept having sellers remorse and never really had a good opportunity to buy another. Then the Full Flat grind became available on the VetDay Ganzaaa. I bought and I LOVE the full flat FSH. The HHFSH may have been more prone to get drooled on, but I am convinced the full flat FSH is better for me as a user. The Full Flat FSH has an AWESOME feel and balance in the hand. I am VERY confident it will be a good user - Camp/chopper/large all-arounder for me. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> I can't wait to get it stripped and a good convex edge on it. Although, my FSH came with one of the better Busse edges I have ever received. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />




Yes. I actually had two DFLE's, but due to finances, I had to sell one. I had two Battle Rats at the time as well and felt I had 4 very similar knives and my one Battle Rat was already my primary chopper. I since had to sell my spare Battle Rat and am now down to 1 each of the Battle Rat and my DFLE. There are just certain knives that are so good, I like having a spare of. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/loopy.gif" alt="" />





Probably because you haven't seen one stripped yet. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> Give me time. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />


Seriously though, I think a LOT of people had mixed expectations from pictures until they received it and handled it. Very similar to the SARSquatch. People thought it looked odd... until they have handled and used it.

Whenever you hear anyone say something negative about either the NMSFNO or the SARSquatch, find out if they have ever used either. I bet not. I bet those who have used either will praise both. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />




Well.... worth / value / cost and similar terms like most terms are relative. To some - yes.

To me, honestly, no. I own the NMFBM and I am not sure if I will keep or sell in the long run. For now, I will keep. But, in the back of my head, I can't convince myself I will keep it forever.

I probably only own it because I am a Junkie. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/paperbag.gif" alt="" /> In NO WAY shape or form can I justify having purchased it or owning it with my current finances. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

I don't need it and as I mentioned, I honestly believe I already have quite a few other better users (IMO - for my uses) that I already own and for WAY less.

I told myself and got bashed here for stating my thoughts about the NMFBM back then about it being WAY too expensive. Then I bought one anyway and still feel the same..... I still feel it is WAY too expensive and I still feel it is heavier than I care for..... Did I mention: Junkie! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/paperbag.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/loopy.gif" alt="" />



Yes, and while I have to try to stop myself from calling that cheap or a bargain, in Busse/INFI terms and considering how nice I feel the knife really is, I have to concede the NMSFNO to be a bargain.

I bought 2 (Junkie - But, don't ask me for my spare .... yet). I actually thought one might be worth holding on to for investment purposes. I had always wanted a regular SFNO with saber grind and thought that someday I might be able to trade. .... Then Jerry released the SFNOLE's.... I bought that too. (Junkie) <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/paperbag.gif" alt="" /> .

So, now, I have most of the Busse blades I want. I would really like a SHBA with no sharpening choil. But, I will NEVER pay the secondary market asking prices I have seen. So, I will just have to cross my fingers that Jerry might release an anniversary edition or something.

I would like an Uncle MOFO, but same thing, I don't see myself paying the secondary market prices I have seen.

I would like a AD, but ONLY if it is without the horrible choil and preferrably without the Talon Hole... Like my concept I have posted a few times. But, I doubt it will happen.

Kukri sounds like fun, but I imagine it will cost more than the NMFBM cost. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif" alt="" /> .... in which case I think I can control myself and let it pass (????) ... I might pick up a Camillus Kukri blank for about $20-$30 and grind it myself. I am sure it will be plenty tough.

.

Thanks... now that it fits my hand much better, is satin and has an edge that will cut some things and wedge open everything else <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />, I like it. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

.

I saw when Ban posted that on Bladeforums... I saved the pics along with quite a few other pics of Ban's work. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/bowdown.gif" alt="" />

I am not big on the swirly micarta. But, NO DOUBT Ban's workmanship is VERY good and that blade is freakin' gorgeous. I wish I could afford an AK...... with a blade like that! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

.

Not exactly. But, they are very similar.

They have pretty much the same "shape" just mostly different in size. The NMSFNO has just a slightly larger grip than the HR.

I measure the grip on my NMSFNO's at about 1/8th inch longer and about 1/16th inch (.06" - .075") taller at various points along the spine.

I measure the NMSFNO at about 0.975" thick at the thick parts of the mags and about 0.645" thick at the thinner parts of the mags.

Vs. the HR at about 0.91" thick at the thick parts of the mags and about 0.585" thick at the thinner parts of the mags.

I don't have a picture of my NMSFNO with my HR on file. I could take a picture later if you need one, but I think for what you are asking (assuming you have the HR), the info listed with measurements should be more informative than even a picture.

Otherwise, the shape of the contouring sides, top and bottom are all about the same with just slightly larger proportions for the NMSFNO.

The Pommels are different, the thumb ramp is taller on the NMSFNO and the thumb notch is longer on the HR. I like the lower ramp and longer thumb notch on the HR and will probably slightly modify that on my user NMSFNO. I have had to modify a LOT of thumb ramps and notches on Busse and kin knives. Most don't fit or feel right to me. The HR is one of the few ramp/notches that works for me.

I don't like the pommel on the HR. But, I could probably grind the HR's pommel to make it look "similar" to the NMSFNO's - not the same since the holes line up differently.

To me, the handles for both the HR and NMSFNO both feel good and both feel appropriately sized for each knive's overall size. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

.... I am still not a big fan of CBT. But, for some reason the grooves don't bother me as much on the HR <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />

.

KnifeGuy, excellent posts! Very imformative and thorough, thanks again. I had a HR and sold it, again I made some money and it just wasn't my cup of tea although a great knife.

The plan now I guess-I'm so confused- is to wait for a release of another CGFBM or DF/DFLE. Then again as was pointed out I could just grab a decent machete for 30 bucks. But alas, I don't have a single Busse at this point. Just Rats and Dogs for this guy. So maybe a NMSFNO would be a good companion to the DF/FBM if I can ever find a deal on one. Secondary market prices are usually more than I can bare unless you stumble upon a user or someone looking to trade.
If I had more Strider folders I have found they are often the subject of request amongst Busse knife users.

The CGFBMs deep belly has always been appealing to me. The company store has those NMSFNOs just sitting there tempting me though.

Best handle mod I have seen was , if my memory serves me well, done by knifemaker Scott Gossman on someones Swamprat M6. It was an awesome wooden handle if anyone can find the pics. Only problem was that he also convexed the blade down and left it a little too thin for tough work and during a knife test it deformed quite badly !!!!

Thanks and your welcome. I don't know if I helped or not, but I try. - It sounds like I created confusion. Sorry if this is the case. But, I better to think it through, than make a hasty purchase on certain things. Especially if about to plunk down a lot on an inflated secondary purchase. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/ooo.gif" alt="" />




Sorry I can't help much. I am honestly not a big "Chopper" kind of guy.

95%+ of my knife carry/use is actually a folder. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />

But, about 95% of my knife collection is fixed blades. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/loopy.gif" alt="" />


If camping, hiking or out in the woods, I like fixed blades, but then about 75% - 85% or so of my knife use is with a 4.0" ( 3.5" - 4.5") blade or so.

I still like having a larger knife, but I don't like carrying around a large chopper.

Honestly, while the NMSFNO and FSH are options, they are really pushing my limits for size/weight.

The Camp Tramp and SARSquatch are really about as large as I like to go.

My modified SJTAC is another common companion with my smaller knives. It is not a great chopper IMO. But, again, I don't chop much and the SJTAC is a great all-arounder mid-size in my book.





Many probably still cringe at the thought of a machete competing with big Busse choppers. But, while not exactly the same, they really can do a lot of work for cheap. Talk about Bang For the Buck! I assume Vic and I don't do comparison chop offs between machetes vs. big Busse and kin choppers as it tends to undermine the value of Busse and kin choppers. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" /> Still.... machetes are a different type of tool. So, not exactly apples to apples.... although they often weigh pretty close to the same if comparing carry value.



-----------


Waiting for those to be re-released is a BIG PRAYER item. While possible, I wouldn't hold my breath too much. Although, eventually, I am sure Jerry will release more "comparable" knives of some sort or another. 10" +/- choppers will always be in demand. So, while he might not duplicate, he will likely release something similar - better or worse is unknown???? and how long till a comparable release is also unknown.... could be 2-6 years (?????) Many factors could create the possibility of never. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

Other things to consider:

Knob Creek and Blade. If you can't make it, see if you can arrange a proxy to scout for a particular blade you are interested in. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />






I don't know what to recommend about filling your Busse niche/fix. Everybody has different opinions.

For me, I actually like INFI in the mid-sized knives like the Skinny ASH1, SJTAC, HR, SARSquatch, FSH and NMSFNO. These size knives benefit quite a bit from both the toughness and edge qualities of INFI.

For choppers, INFI just gets too expensive and the return in value just isn't justified for me. The DFLE is ultra tough and edge qualities are plenty good for a chopper as I don't need my choppers to maintain an edge the same as smaller knives.

I am sure I have mentioned, but I still like SR-101 in most sized knives as the edge qualities are VERY good and toughness is pretty much all I need and since I still haven't really seen any SR-101 blade broken, I would argue that SR-101 is really plenty tough for most anyone. Plus, at a much better price point than INFI.






Hmmmm.... I have a hard time veiwing the NMSFNO as a "companion" knife to the DF or FBM. It fills a niche in my collection. But, in the field, I would never carry both. The NMSFNO is a BIG knife in my book. It is not quite as large as a DFLE or FBM, but still large. The NMSFNO is larger than a Ratweiler/Chopweiler, Camp Tramp/SOD or similar.


Consider:


NMSFNO………………….= 21.5 ounces; .25” thick; 8.1875” blade; 14.0” oal

FSH (full flat grind)..= 22.0 ounces; .27” thick; 8.1875” blade; 14.4” oal


Camp Tramp............= 14.5 ounces; .236" thick; 7.325" blade; 12.5" oal
Ratweiler (orig.)……. = 20.1 ounces; .25” thick; 7.5” blade; 13” oal
Chopweiler - Micarta = 19.1 ounces; .25” thick; 7.5625” blade; 13.1875” oal
Chopweiler – G10….. = 20.5 ounces; .25” thick; 7.5625” blade; 13.1875” oal


Dog Father………….. = 20.1 ounces; .275” thick; 10” blade; 15.125” oal
Dog Father LE…….. = 17.0 ounces; .250” thick; 10.0625” blade; 15.125” oal
Battle Rat……………. = 16.5 ounces; .250” thick; 9.375” blade; 14.4375” oal

FBM CG……………… = 27.1 ounces


The FBMCG is clearly the heavy beast among the above knives.

But, the NMSFNO and FSH are both easily heavier than the DFLE, DF or Battle Rat.

I am pretty convinced both the DFLE and Battle Rat are better choppers than either the NMSFNO or FSH or any smaller blades for that matter. But, it can get hard comparing Res-C knives to micarta knives. The Res-C knives always have some weight savings advantages.

The NMSFNO and FSH are still GREAT mid-sized choppers and both a bit better at all-around duty than most of the larger choppers. So, compromises tend to have to be dealt with. There will NEVER be ONE perfect knife as most of us consider various uses - not ONE use.

If you want a PURE chopper, the DFLE and FBMCG are hard to beat.

But, if you want to carry the knife and have the mentallity of the only worthy knife is the one you have with you. Then the PURE choppers start to have less appeal - for me anyway. And for me, knives like the NMSFNO, FSH, Ratweiler/Chopweiler, Camp Tramp/SOD start to have more value.

It basically comes down to each individuals habits. What do you do out in the woods?

If you hike and backpack a lot, weight becomes a significant issue.

If you park an RV and hang out around a camp-fire without going on significant hikes and like to chop wood a lot, you will likely enjoy a good PURE chopper more and not care about weight as much.


Everybody is different with different habits, needs, etc.






+1 I hate paying more than I feel I should. But, every now and then a reasonable deal will come up. But, you have to be fast and check regularly for those. I used to, but it can be a hassle. Plus, I am sitting pretty well with what I have.






Again, I think the NMSFNO is a REALLY nice knife with lots of all-around potential. And, I think for INFI, $327 for the NMSFNO is a pretty decent value compared to most any other INFI pieces. But, that is my opinion.

Personally, I have to recommend that if you have the means, buy it. I really feel it is one of those knives you appreciate more when you have handled it vs. just looking at pictures.

However, as mentioned above, if you want the BEST chopper and not concerned about weight, carry or versatility in use - just want a chopper. Then the NMSFNO is probably not as good an option as the CGFBM, DFLE or certain other PURE choppers.

But, as with many pieces of INFI, if you don't like it, you can resell it. - As opposed to deciding a few weeks from now that you wished you had picked up an NMSFNO at cost while you could and having to face paying MORE on the secondary market. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/banghead.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/doh.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

When a known item like Busse/INFI knives have such a predictable pattern of appreciation, certain pieces that "might" have appeal are better to purchase at cost when you can.

Since the NMSFNO was available for so long at the store, I don't expect it to appreciate quickly. But, inevitably, new people will always be finding out about INFI and I believe the NMSFNO is one that will appreciate well over time.

<img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />



.

Nice job KG! Well put.