BTW,

I also have no problems employing a Havalon. I have two that are part of my kit.

When I was bear hunting in NM a couple years back, all the guides and game wardens carried HAVALON knives. Consequently when I got back home I ordered two different sizes and three different blade patterns.

Havilon Piranta

http://www.havalon.com/piranta...-knife-xt60edge.html


Havilon Barracuta

http://www.havalon.com/havalon...--fillet-knives.html



They have become part of my kit.

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Basically like a folding lock-blade scalpel. However I do not try to pry with them.

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They are reasonably inexpensive for both the knife base/handle and the replaceable


They will work great on hogs. We do not field dress, but bring all animals that will be skinned back to camp. We hang from hind legs on a gambrel. One has to be careful not to cut the leader/tendon. Also hogs in the hill country usually are covered with fine grit that is almost like concrete. I use the Havalon for my starting cut just below the ankle joint where the skin is thin.


If I'm concerned about keeping the cape and not piercing the hide I do not use the Havilon. I use a semi-skinner or something with an upsweep to the blade. The havilon is just too thin and sharp and if you are not very very careful you will cut/poke a hole in your cape.


The blades are easy to change, just be careful and use a pair of pliers or a table surface to install/take off.


Another consideration. You might want to keep a fingernail brush in your kit in order to clean the knife/blades.


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I figure there is a time and place for most any blade.


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One of the leases I'm on requires that the lower jaw of any doe taken to be logged in with a data card. The small Havalon sure made short work out of the process, aided with the Ken Honeycutt Dorado and Cold Steel Outdoorsman for medium and heavier lifting!

Best,


GWB

A Kill Artist. When I draw, I draw blood.