I recently made a decision on a knife but was wanting something more affordable than a custom and no longer than I would care to carry on my match costume. I have other huge Bowies and a machete, if serious about using the knife for chopping. Basically I wanted a practical skinning knife,, if ever needing to actually use it. Happily I found something Made in USA and a true Bowie shape. I passed on a number that did not have a full cross guard. I already owned a 6" Triple K sheath, not cheap, so that defined what blade length and width I needed. The best fit I found was a Buck from MidwayUSA, so when they appeared with the second price reduction, I went for it, no regrets. The handle looks a bit modern and decorative, but I prefer it, and the brass butt could actually serve for pounding. This will replace a 4" Baby Bowie by Remington, a really nice little knife and sheath.