Guys I am in need of a good filet knife. I need one that maintains its edge and is durable. I would prefer smooth edge blade not serrated.
There are lots of choices out there, and I own some good ones. My favorite is the Dexter-Russell Model 133-9. It has a very long, ultra thin blade. It keeps its edge, too. Smooth edge.
Dexter Russell is all I use and all the pros use. High carbon steel blade that is easy to sharpen and is very durable plus they won't break the bank. Dexter-Russell, Inc.
I use the rapala soft grip 9" blade 5" handle. It costs about $25 and comes with a sharpener. Can't beat it
BTW, Dexter really has two companies: Russell and International. The International knives are about 35% cheaper than the Russell knives, and they look the same. But they're not! The International line is made overseas, China, I think, but they are not of the same quality. Don't buy a Dexter International believing that you're getting a great deal.
Dependingo on the fish, but always dexter russell. I buy a box every two years or so. 1376- i use this knife 90% of the time filleting anything from seabass, blackfish, tuna, etc, any round fish. 1378- Skinning fish S133-8- for filleting and skinning fluke, or other flatfish.
Here's my custom filet knives made by Tony Baker Knives. I'm actually getting a matching sheath made right now for my pliers (I'll post some pictures soon). The blade is S30V with a G10 handle.
I just keep a bunch sharp and ready for action. I dump them on my tailgate and go for it. Mrbill, I think you have enough knives for the time being.. great collection. I am pretty happy with my forschners.. they seem to hold up pretty well as long as you are not hacking with it...
I bought a set of 3 Dexter Internationals from BPS that came with a case. They are actually made in Japan and seem to be good quality. But I have no idea how they'll hold an edge... They were a pretty good deal. But I don't really care if they won't standup. I also got a wider 8" American Angler knife from Academy. (made by Douglas Quikcut) Says that it's German Steel, whatever that's worth. Seems to be a decent blade too. Looks like Mr. Bill has several of the American Anglers too... I've always had very good luck with both Japanese (Seki) and German (Solingen) steel and that's really the only reason I went cheap and decided to try both of these... But I do realize these are big countries and these may just be marketed to sell, and not high quality. So should I keep and use these or return while still new and try again?
So should I keep and use these or return while still new and try again? you should keep your higher quality steel and return the cheap steel a good steel blade can cut through bones and remain sharp for a much longer time a good 'extreme' example is comparison between a High Speed Steel router bit vs. Carbide router bit the first one will burn up after about 4-6 cuttings through 3/4" MDF, the latter will last 20-40 times longer