hmm nice pics bro

I think it should only be fair to point out the Yard Keeper has a full height grind! compared to the Howler's 2/3 height grind.

You can't see that in the pictures above.

I haven't measured the primary grind angles, but I assume the full hieght grind helps keep the angles similar to the Howlers while offering thicker steel (???).

.

Howling Fat, indeed. I have been thinning the edge a little on mine. Knives like the Dumpster Mutt and Yard Keeper are difficult to put fine edges on because of their thickness. A 1/4" thick blade makes sense on a big Bowie, but I do not see the purpose of it on small knives. Maybe its just my own personal preference, but I like the thinner blade on the HRLM better. It makes for easier sharpening and a better slicer IMO. When the standard version comes out, I will probably get one of those just for the 3/16" thick blade. I can always strip the paint off.

I like the full height grind. I also like thinner knives for slicing and big meaty ones for hacking.

howling fats have a full height grind too. they're great little knives, but so is the 2/3 grind 3/16" howling rat.

i'm looking forward to getting my yard keeper <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

The Yard Keeper is a very fine knife. It is just overbuilt. I like to think of it as a mini-survival knife. You could chop down small trees with it by beating on the back of the blade!

Ahhh! but, maybe it's the Howling Rat, that's underbuilt. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> I really like the personal comfort factor of the thick blades.....if I want a thin blade.....the kitchen is full of them.

Either way, you CAN get a pretty decent edge on a Yard Keeper with a little help from the belt grinder.
BEFORE:

AFTER:

Honestly I think of the YardKeeper as a collector knife. The CG version in 3/16th will be an awesome user though. The Howlers are awesome knives both as users and quite good looking.

My Yard Keeper (when it gets here ,thanks again Jason)will probably end up as a safe queen.

That is why I have two. One to look at and one to use.