Today I took possession of my new Yard Keeper LE <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />!

I wanted to provide a qualitative review of it for my fellow Dogs that might not ever get a chance to behold such a magnificent blade!

Here's the technical information:

BLADE LENGTH = 4.5"
BLADE MATERIAL = SR-77
FINISH = Satin (GORGEOUS!!! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/bowdown.gif" alt="" />)
THICKNESS = .267" <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif" alt="" />
HANDLE = Res-C
RELEASE: 2007 Blade Show

Onto my impressions:

First - this knife fits my hand PERFECTLY! The handle size and design is incomparable. The knife feels like an extension of me!



Second - the balance is exactly how I want a knife to feel: solid in the handle, but a little blade heavy. The knife feels oddly light, yet "hefty" at the same time. This incredible balance conveys a sense that you could chisel thorough an engine block or delicately carve a Fillet Mignon at Ruth's Chris.

Third - this is a gorgeous knife. Its clean lines and impeccable satin finish contrast beautifully with its brutality. I think this blade would look equally welcome on a industrial foreman's hip or accompanying a gentleman to the country club.

Fourth - This knife is SCARY sharp!!!

In summation, this is as close to "perfect" as a "general purpose" fixed blade knife can be. I didn't think the RMD would be easily knocked from my "favorite knife" pedestal, but the YKLE has done it. If Dan released these today, I'd order at least 3 more (probably 4 or 5). Why so many of the same knife? Because a full flat ground satin finish SR77 with a nicely proportioned Res-C handle would never EVER leave my side....I would EDC that blade to meetings with clients and long range hiking trips alike.

Since I only have the one copy, she will remain safely nestled in my Safe.

Before you look at the pictures, I want to give a very big and public THANK YOU to Tom (aka Private Klink) for sharing this fine blade with me. Tom, thank you very much - this knife is everything you said it would be and much more <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />. To everyone reading this I can say: Tom epitomizes the spirit of the Yard!

Since you're all here for the pics <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />









Dan is a master - LONG LIVE THE YARD!

Great looking blade. I bet you will really like it. I still want to get my hands on one of these.

Sumo,

Don't give up hope!

This is a hard hand to beat....

Nice knife, I really like the Yard Keepers but haven't ever pulled the trigger on one. There was a Thick Bama Clay YK at Blade West I held on to it for a long time wanting to buy it, In the end I proxied it for someone else.

Congrats on the score.

Love the G20 and YK blade pic. Are those casino cards or are the holes from the 10mm?

Congrats...I ended up selling mine, as the handle was a bit small for me. I do agree it's a pretty knife. Enjoy!

Sethro,

You won't regret getting one!

Sumo,

I've never gambled in my life, but knew a "Pit Boss" from our local casino. He gave me those cards when I sold him a 302 Boss engine years ago.

Digs,

My hands are "medium large" for a guy. The handle fits me how I like...no excess <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

I have been to a casino in IN. IIRC, it was on a river boat called the Argosy. Beautiful country. I could see why the need for good blades are needed in those woods---and a .308!

Sure it wasn't AZTAR?

Oooh...like that last family pic.

However, I have to say it (before someone else does)...go get'em dirty! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" /> Hehe, not trying to be negative...moreso trying to support you in knocking the polish off those knives <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

Speaking of which...I wonder what the standard "break-in" period is for a SYKCO?

And that makes me think a great t-shirt slogan for the Yard: "How do you break-in a SYKCO? (flip to back) Stick it, Poke it, Chop it!"