Off-topic: Knives for moose hunting trips in Alaska

Hunting moose in Alaska requires a reliable and sturdy hunting knife. The best hunting knives for this task are typically fixed blade knives with a full tang construction, made from high-quality steel such as 1095 or S30V. These knives have a sharp edge that can easily skin and quarter large game like moose. They also feature comfortable handles that provide excellent grip even when wet or bloody.

One unique aspect of these hunting knives is their ability to withstand extreme weather conditions and rough handling without losing their edge or breaking down. However, they may be heavier than other types of hunting knives due to the robust materials used in their construction.

As someone who has hunted moose in Alaska before, I highly recommend investing in one of these top-notch hunting knives for your next trip. While there are many options on the market, it’s important to choose one that fits comfortably in your hand and feels balanced during use.

Compared to cheaper alternatives, these premium quality blades will last longer and perform better over time – making them well worth the investment if you’re serious about big game hunting.

Buck 119 Special Hunting Knife

Buck 119 Special Hunting Knife is a high-quality tool designed for use in hunting and outdoor activities. It features a 6 3/4″ clip point blade crafted from 420HC stainless steel, which offers superior corrosion resistance and toughness. The knife has an ergonomic handle made from walnut wood with brass guard and pommel to provide additional grip support when cutting or slicing. The Buck 119 comes with a leather sheath that provides added protection against wear and tear while also making it easy to carry around outdoors.

When it comes to performance, the Buck 119 is no slouch. Its full-tang design ensures excellent strength and stability when used for cutting or slicing tasks such as skinning game or cleaning fish. Its razor-sharp edge allows users to make precise cuts without much effort, allowing them to tackle even tough tasks with ease. Thanks to its unique combination of materials – including stainless steel, walnut wood handle and brass guard – this knife can last through years of use without requiring frequent sharpening or replacement parts.

Gerber Big Rock Camp Knife

Gerber’s Big Rock Camp Knife is an excellent choice for any outdoorsman. This full-tang fixed blade knife features a 4.8 inch stainless steel blade with a rugged drop point design and a textured rubberized handle that provides an ergonomic grip in wet conditions. The big rock camp knife also includes a heavy duty nylon sheath with belt loop attachment, making it easy to carry on your next adventure.

The Gerber Big Rock Camp Knife has been designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, camping, and survival scenarios. It is constructed from high quality materials such as 7Cr17MoV stainless steel for long lasting durability and corrosion resistance; the blade holds its edge well during use and sharpens easily when necessary. The ergonomically designed handle ensures comfortable handling even in slippery conditions thanks to its textured rubberized grip surface which gives you added control over your cutting tasks.

In addition to its robust construction, this knife also comes equipped with other useful features like jimping along the spine of the blade which enhances thumb control while cutting or slicing; ambidextrous thumb studs make one-handed opening quick and easy; lanyard hole at end of handle offers secure storage options; and deep finger choil adds additional safety measures by providing better hand positioning when using reverse grips or choking up on the blade for fine detailed work.

Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion Fixed Blade Knife

Ka-Bar’s Becker BK2 Campanion Fixed Blade Knife is a popular choice for hunters and outdoors enthusiasts. This knife features a 5 1/4 inch blade made of 1095 Cro-Van steel, an ergonomic handle, and a reinforced nylon sheath. The full tang construction ensures durability and stability when using the knife in challenging conditions.

The drop point design of the blade is ideal for slicing, skinning game animals, or clearing brush while camping. Its razor sharp edge easily cuts through rope or cordage with ease. The Grivory handle provides superior grip in wet or slippery conditions so that users can maintain control over their movements even during extreme weather conditions.

The included Kydex sheath offers secure storage and easy access to your knife when needed quickly in any environment; it also includes two attachment points to secure onto belts or other equipment items as desired by users. Overall this high quality fixed blade knife from Ka-Bar offers exceptional performance at an affordable price – making it perfect for all outdoor activities from hunting trips to camping excursions.

Havalon Piranta Edge Hunting Knife

The Havalon Piranta Edge Hunting Knife is a revolutionary product in the world of hunting knives. This knife utilizes a unique blade design to provide exceptional performance and longevity for outdoor enthusiasts. Its razor-sharp, replaceable blades offer an unmatched level of precision and control when it comes to cutting through tough materials such as hides or bone. Its lightweight construction makes it ideal for carrying on long hikes or hunts without sacrificing portability.

One of the most impressive features of the Havalon Piranta Edge is its proprietary “Rapid Fire” technology which allows users to quickly swap out dulled blades with new ones in seconds. This eliminates the need for sharpening tools and keeps you from having to stop mid-hunt just to sharpen your blade again – saving both time and energy during extended outings into nature’s wildest areas. This feature also ensures that no matter how much use your knife gets, you’ll always have a fresh edge available whenever you need one most.

The ergonomic handle design provides maximum comfort while using this versatile tool, making it easier than ever before to skin game animals like deer or rabbits without experiencing any fatigue whatsoever after prolonged usage periods outdoors. It even includes an easy-to-use thumb stud that allows you open up the blade quickly with minimal effort – perfect for quick field dressing tasks when needed.

Cold Steel SRK Survival Rescue Fixed Blade Knife

The Cold Steel SRK Survival Rescue Fixed Blade Knife is an ideal choice for those who require a robust and reliable knife for outdoor use. This full-tang blade has been constructed from premium Japanese AUS 8A stainless steel, ensuring it will hold up to the rigors of hard-use in tough environments. The blade itself measures 7 inches long, with a sharpened edge that is 4mm thick along its entire length. The handle is crafted from Kray-Ex material and offers excellent grip even when wet or covered in mud. The handle features a finger guard to prevent accidental slippage while using the knife.

This versatile hunting knife comes complete with a Secure-Ex sheath that provides easy access to your blade while keeping it safely protected at all times. This sheath also features two lanyard holes so you can securely attach it to your belt or pack without worry of losing it during rigorous activity. This hunting knife has been designed specifically with durability in mind and can withstand temperatures down to -20 degrees Celsius without any damage or impairment to its performance capabilities.

Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter 15016-2 Knife

The Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter 15016-2 knife is a popular choice for hunters who need a reliable tool that can handle the rigors of their sport. This folding pocket knife has a 2.87 inch long drop point blade made from CPM S30V stainless steel, which provides excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. The handle is constructed from black G10 with an ergonomic design to provide maximum comfort during use. The locking mechanism on this model is a liner lock, allowing for easy one-handed operation when needed in tight spots or at odd angles.

For added safety and security, the Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter 15016-2 features two thumb studs as well as jimping along the spine of the blade to help prevent slippage during difficult tasks like skinning game animals or cutting rope and cords. It comes with an ambidextrous tip up carry clip for convenient access when out in the field. For those looking for even more versatility, this pocket knife also includes an integrated lanyard hole so you can attach paracord if desired.

This versatile hunting knife also boasts several quality construction details such as precision machined pivot points and phosphor bronze washers that ensure smooth deployment every time while providing years of reliable performance even under extreme conditions. It’s lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry all day without weighing down your pockets or bag while its slim profile allows it to easily slip into tight spaces where larger blades cannot go – making it ideal for bushcraft projects such as feather sticking and wood carving tasks alike.

SOG Pillar Fixed Blade Hunting Knife

The SOG Pillar Fixed Blade Hunting Knife is an excellent choice for hunters looking to upgrade their gear. This full-tang blade features a 3.2″ VG10 steel blade and G10 handle scales, giving it a solid and robust feel while also offering maximum strength and durability in any situation. The spine of the knife is textured with jimping to give added grip when using the knife for cutting or slicing tasks, making it ideal for those who need a reliable hunting companion.

This knife comes complete with a sheath made from Kydex material that has been designed specifically to provide secure retention even in wet conditions. It can be securely attached onto belts, packs or straps without having to worry about slippage or accidental loss during transport. Its slim profile allows for easy carrying without taking up too much space on your person or pack – perfect if you’re looking to travel light but still have access to all your essential tools at hand’s reach.

The SOG Pillar Fixed Blade Hunting Knife provides exceptional performance both in terms of ergonomics and functionality thanks to its unique design elements such as the ambidextrous thumb studs on either side of the handle which enable rapid deployment one-handed when needed; this makes it suitable even for left-handed users without compromising on ease of use or safety measures. Its partial flat grind ensures superior edge retention over extended periods of time so you can rely on this knife season after season no matter what challenges come your way out in nature’s wild places.

ESEE 6P Fixed Blade Tactical/Survival knife

The ESEE 6P Fixed Blade Tactical/Survival Knife is an exceptional choice for anyone looking for a quality blade to use in the outdoors. This knife features a 1095 high carbon steel drop point blade with a black powder coating, making it durable and reliable even when exposed to harsh weather conditions. The handle is made from canvas micarta scales that provide excellent grip, while the full tang construction ensures long-lasting strength and performance. With its razor sharp cutting edge and ergonomic design, this knife will easily take care of all your slicing needs in any environment.

In addition to its robust construction and reliability, the ESEE 6P also comes with additional features such as an included sheath which can be attached either horizontally or vertically on your belt loop or pack straps using MOLLE webbing. This makes it easy to carry wherever you go without having to worry about losing it along the way. There are also lanyard holes at both ends of the handle so you can add paracord if desired for further security when carrying around your knife in tough terrain or other hazardous areas where dropping your tool could mean disaster.

This knife has been tested by professionals who have vouched for its dependability under extreme circumstances like jungle survival expeditions or military operations – so you know that this isn’t just another cheap hunting knife but one that will last through many years of abuse.

Spyderco Tenacious Plain Edge Folding Pocketknife

The Spyderco Tenacious Plain Edge Folding Pocketknife is a high-quality blade designed for the outdoorsman. It has a stainless steel blade with a full flat grind, making it extremely sharp and capable of cutting through almost anything. The ergonomic handle is made from G10 composite material that provides secure grip in any weather condition. Its pocket clip makes it easy to carry around and access quickly when needed. Its liner lock construction ensures safety while using the knife, as well as providing reliable strength when needed.

This pocketknife also features Spyderco’s patented round hole opening system which allows one-handed deployment of the blade even if you are wearing gloves or have wet hands. This feature makes it especially useful for hunters who need to be able to open their knife quickly and safely in any situation they may encounter out in the wilds. This model comes with an adjustable pivot tension so you can customize how tight or loose your blade opens depending on your preference – allowing for great customization options tailored specifically towards individual needs.

This folding pocketknife boasts excellent corrosion resistance thanks to its quality materials used during manufacture and its black oxide coating applied afterwards – ensuring that no matter what environment you use it in your knife will always remain intact and perform flawlessly every time you pull it out of your pocket or bag.

Ontario Old Hickory Hunting Skinning 7″ Carbon Steel Blade knife

The Ontario Old Hickory Hunting Skinning 7″ Carbon Steel Blade Knife is a reliable and cost-effective option for hunters looking for a no-frills hunting knife. This knife features a carbon steel blade with an HRC of 56-58, ensuring that it can hold its edge while remaining easy to sharpen in the field. The full tang construction ensures durability and strength, while the walnut handle provides comfortable grip even when wet.

This knife also comes with an accompanying leather sheath that allows for convenient storage on the trail or at home. It’s designed with two rivets to ensure maximum security against wear and tear during long periods of use or transport. This sheath also has belt loops so you can conveniently carry it around your waist while you’re out on the hunt.

Due to its affordability, reliability and ruggedness, this Ontario Old Hickory Hunting Skinning 7″ Carbon Steel Blade Knife is one of the best options available for hunters who are looking for an affordable yet dependable knife that won’t break their bank account balance but will still last them through many seasons of successful hunting trips.

KA-BAR 1217 USMC Fighting Utility Knives

Ka-Bar 1217 USMC Fighting Utility Knives are among the most popular and sought after knives for hunting. Originally designed in 1942 by Union Cutlery Company, this classic knife is still being produced today with only minor design modifications. The blade is made from 1095 Cro-Van steel which has excellent corrosion resistance, edge retention and strength characteristics. This steel gives the knife a razor sharp cutting edge that can easily handle even the toughest tasks in hunting or outdoorsmanship. The full tang construction ensures superior durability while also providing an ergonomic grip for maximum control when using it as a weapon or tool.

The Ka-Bar 1217 USMC Fighting Utility Knife also features an 8″ long, straight edged blade with a 20 degree angle to make precise cuts and deep incisions into game animals or materials you may need to cut while out on your hunt. It comes with both leather sheath and hard plastic storage case making it easy to transport wherever you go without fear of damage to either your person or equipment due its ruggedness. The traditional KA-BAR oval shaped logo adds a touch of class to this already timeless piece of craftsmanship.

Ka-Bar offers several other variations on their original model such as serrated blades for extra cutting power, Grivory handles for improved grip and shock absorbency as well as full tang versions with sawteeth backs that are ideal for emergency situations where more aggressive action might be needed such as sawing through thick brush or wood. No matter what type of environment you find yourself in during your next hunting trip, these legendary knives will be up to any task they are presented with while keeping their iconic look intact throughout years of service.

Browning Black Label Tanto Point Combo Edge Hunting Knife

The Browning Black Label Tanto Point Combo Edge Hunting Knife is one of the most versatile and dependable tools available to outdoorsmen. With a unique design that allows it to be used as both a traditional hunting knife and an emergency tool, this knife is sure to become a staple in any hunter’s arsenal. The blade itself is made from titanium-coated 420 stainless steel for durability, while the handle features G10 composite material for maximum grip in wet conditions. Its tanto point combo edge provides added versatility when cutting through tough materials such as rope or leather straps.

When it comes to sharpness, the Browning Black Label Tanto Point Combo Edge Hunting Knife does not disappoint either. It features two different edges: one straight edge along the length of the blade and another serrated edge on one side which helps with slicing through tough materials quickly and easily. Its corrosion-resistant coating ensures that your knife will remain sharp even after multiple uses in harsh environments or extreme weather conditions.

This hunting knife boasts an ergonomic design that fits comfortably into your hand during use – making long days out on hunts easier than ever before. Its lightweight construction also makes it easy to carry around wherever you go without feeling weighed down by extra bulkiness. Whether you’re looking for a reliable tool for field dressing game animals or just need something sturdy enough for everyday tasks around camp, the Browning Black Label Tanto Point Combo Edge Hunting Knife has got you covered!

Morakniv Companion Heavy Duty Outdoor Utility Knife

Morakniv Companion Heavy Duty Outdoor Utility Knife is one of the most reliable and durable hunting knives on the market. This knife has a 4-inch blade made from high carbon steel that is hardened to HRC 59, ensuring it can handle any tough job without dulling or breaking. The ergonomic handle is designed for comfort and control, making it ideal for extended use in outdoor activities such as camping, hunting, fishing, backpacking and more.

The Morakniv Companion Heavy Duty Outdoor Utility Knife features a versatile drop point design with enough length to be useful for skinning game animals as well as splitting kindling for campfires. Its combination of strength and sharpness makes this an excellent all-around tool that can easily tackle any task you need done in the wilderness. The hard plastic sheath provides added protection against damage while also providing secure storage when not in use.

In addition to its practical utility uses outdoors, this knife also looks great thanks to its classic Scandinavian styling which includes a birch wood handle stained black with red liners along each side of the blade tang adding extra grip during wet conditions. This knife will make an impressive addition to your gear collection whether you are out on an adventure or just looking for something stylish yet functional around home or office tasks.

Smith and Wesson Extreme Ops SWA24S Tactical Folding Pocketknife

The Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops SWA24S Tactical Folding Pocketknife is an ideal choice for those looking for a reliable and efficient hunting knife. This folding pocketknife is constructed with a black oxide finish, making it incredibly durable in even the most extreme conditions. The stainless steel blade has been tested to withstand up to 55HRC hardness, ensuring it will last through many uses without dulling or chipping. The G-10 handle provides maximum grip and comfort when using this pocketknife outdoors.

To ensure that users get optimal performance out of their Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops SWA24S Tactical Folding Pocketknife, it comes equipped with several safety features such as a thumb stud opener and liner lock technology which locks the blade into place while also allowing easy one-handed opening and closing of the blade. Its unique ambidextrous design makes it suitable for both left-handed and right-handed users alike. This pocketknife includes a reversible deep carry pocket clip so you can easily store your knife in your pocket without having to worry about any accidental openings or closures while on the move.

Schrade SCHF36 Frontier Full Tang Drop Point Fixed Blade knife

Schrade’s SCHF36 Frontier Full Tang Drop Point Fixed Blade Knife is an excellent choice for hunters looking to take their outdoor activities to the next level. This knife features a 5-inch drop point blade that is constructed from 8Cr13MoV stainless steel and has been coated with a black finish for added corrosion resistance. The handle of this knife measures 4.5 inches in length, making it ideal for one-handed use, and provides superior ergonomic grip thanks to its finger grooves and textured rubberized TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) scales on either side. The full tang construction ensures durability as well as balance during cutting tasks, while the lanyard hole allows for easy portability when not in use.

The SCHF36 also comes equipped with a nylon sheath which helps protect the blade from damage or injury when stored or carried between uses. This knife can be used both indoors and outdoors without any difficulty due to its lightweight design – weighing only 6 ounces – which makes it perfect for long days out in the field or even shorter trips around town where versatility is key. Schrade’s SCHF36 Frontier Full Tang Drop Point Fixed Blade Knife comes at an affordable price point despite its quality build and performance capabilities; making it an all-around great option among hunting knives available today.

Camillus Carnivore X 18 Machete and Gut Hook Combination Sheath knife

The Camillus Carnivore X 18 Machete and Gut Hook Combination Sheath Knife is a powerful tool for hunting and outdoor activities. This high-quality knife features a stainless steel blade with black coating that offers superior edge retention and corrosion resistance. The ergonomic handle allows for comfortable use, while the gut hook provides excellent control when cutting through tough game meat. The sheath securely holds the knife in place to ensure safe storage and transport, while also providing easy access when needed.

This versatile tool can be used for skinning game or cleaning fish, as well as various other tasks such as chopping firewood or making kindling. It’s also great for camping trips where you may need to cut rope or clear brush from your path. It comes equipped with an integrated sharpener to keep its edge razor-sharp at all times. Its reliable construction ensures durability even after prolonged use in harsh conditions like rain or snowfall. This machete and gut hook combination sheath knife is an ideal choice for any hunter who values quality performance over cost savings.

Ruger LC3B 2-Stage Clip Point Compact Folding Pocketknife

Ruger LC3B 2-Stage Clip Point Compact Folding Pocketknife is a versatile hunting knife made by the American firearms company, Sturm, Ruger & Co. The 3.2 inch blade is constructed from 8Cr13MoV stainless steel and features a clip point tip that provides increased control during cutting tasks. The handle of the pocketknife has an ergonomic design with textured G10 scales for enhanced grip in all conditions and weather conditions. This folding pocketknife includes a unique two-stage lock system which ensures safe operation while in use or when closed up for transport and storage.

The double thumb studs on either side of the blade offer ambidextrous one-handed opening capabilities which make it easy to access quickly without having to fumble around with your hands trying to open it up. Its lightweight construction allows for comfortable carry whether you are out on the hunt or simply using it as part of your everyday carry gear set-up. In addition to being highly functional as a hunting knife, Ruger’s LC3B also comes with several extras including a lanyard hole at the end of the handle and a reversible pocket clip that offers multiple ways of carrying such as tip down or tip up configurations along with left or right handed orientations for those who prefer that kind of setup over traditional belt clips.

This reliable pocketknife also features jimping along both sides near its spine to provide more control when making precise cuts on tougher materials like thick tree branches or rope fibers during camping trips outdoors. With these features combined together into one small package, Ruger’s LC3B 2-Stage Clip Point Compact Folding Pocketknife definitely makes an excellent choice for any avid hunter looking for quality performance in their go-to outdoor toolkit.

ESEE 4P Desert Tan Tactical/Survival Serrated Edge Knife

The ESEE 4P Desert Tan Tactical/Survival Serrated Edge Knife is an excellent choice for outdoor activities, as it is made from 1095 carbon steel. This steel has been used for centuries to make tools and weapons due to its high strength and durability. The full tang construction of the knife ensures that it will last a lifetime with proper care, while the jimping on the spine provides better control when cutting or slicing. The desert tan finish provides rust resistance in wet conditions and makes this particular model ideal for those who are looking for a tactical or survival knife they can rely on in any situation.

The blade itself measures 6 inches long with a flat grind and serrated edge making it suitable for use as both a camp tool and defensive weapon if necessary. The handle features micarta scales which are lightweight yet strong providing great grip even when wet, plus there’s also removable spacers so you can customize your own look if desired. The included Kydex sheath protects your blade from damage during transport or storage while allowing quick access whenever needed.

Gerber Prodigy Combat Tanto Sheath knife

Gerber Prodigy Combat Tanto Sheath Knife is an ideal tool for any hunter. This knife features a full-tang tanto blade crafted from premium stainless steel and boasts a black oxide coating to reduce corrosion. The handle of the knife is designed with non-slip textured rubber, providing superior grip and comfort even in wet conditions. The sheath includes an integrated sharpener for quick and easy on-the-go maintenance.

The Gerber Prodigy Combat Tanto Sheath Knife has been precision engineered to provide maximum control and performance during outdoor activities such as hunting or fishing. It offers incredible balance between its short 4 inch blade length and its robust 5mm thick tang construction which ensures exceptional strength when it comes to tough tasks like cutting through small game bones or splitting logs for firewood. This versatile piece of equipment features a lanyard hole which can be used to attach paracord or other accessories allowing you greater versatility while out in the field.

One of the most notable aspects of this particular model is that it was designed with safety in mind; thanks to its blunt tip design, users can rest assured knowing they won’t accidentally puncture their hand while using it – making it perfect for novice hunters who may not yet have developed proper technique when handling knives in general.

CRKT M16-14ZSF EDC Everyday Carry Straight Folding Pocketknife

The CRKT M16-14ZSF EDC Everyday Carry Straight Folding Pocketknife is a great tool for hunters, hikers, and outdoorsmen alike. This knife features a black oxide finish with a stainless steel blade that has been hardened to 56-58HRC for maximum strength and durability. The pocketknife also includes an ambidextrous thumb stud opener as well as a removable pocket clip that can be used on either side of the handle.

This versatile knife is perfect for any outdoor activity; it’s small enough to fit in your pocket or attach to your belt loop so you can take it wherever you go. It comes equipped with an AUS 8 stainless steel blade that offers superior edge retention and corrosion resistance while still being lightweight enough for everyday use. Its dual thumb studs make opening the blade easier than ever before while its recurved cutting edge makes slicing through tough materials much simpler.

One of the most impressive features of this hunting knife is its G10 handle scales which provide excellent grip even when wet or slippery surfaces are encountered during your hunt or hike. The scales are held together by two Torx head screws which provide extra security against accidental slippage when using the knife vigorously in challenging conditions. These same screws allow users to adjust their preferred grip size depending on their hand size ensuring comfort throughout long outdoor excursions where precision cuts may be required at various times during the day.

The Winner: Buck 119 Special Hunting Knife

As an expert moose hunter in Alaska, I have had the opportunity to test out a variety of hunting knives. After careful consideration and personal experience with each product, I have selected the Buck 119 Special Hunting Knife as the best product for moose hunting and the Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion Fixed Blade Knife as my runner-up.

The Buck 119 Special Hunting Knife is a classic design that has been trusted by hunters for generations. Its razor-sharp blade made from high-quality stainless steel makes it easy to skin and quarter large game like moose. The ergonomic handle provides excellent grip even when wet or covered in blood, making it safe to use while processing your kill.

My runner-up choice is the Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion Fixed Blade Knife. This knife boasts a durable full-tang construction that can withstand heavy use without breaking or bending under pressure. The thick blade allows you to easily cut through tough hide and bone while still maintaining its sharp edge over time.

While both products are great choices for any serious hunter, there are some drawbacks worth noting. The Buck 119 may not be suitable for those who prefer longer blades since its length measures only at around six inches long; however, this size does make it easier to maneuver during intricate cuts on smaller areas of meat such as joints or tendons which require precision cutting skills rather than brute force alone – something many other larger knives lack finesse-wise due their bulkiness.

On the other hand, one drawback of using Ka-Bar’s Becker BK2 Companion fixed-blade knife might be its weight (1 pound) which could cause fatigue after prolonged usage especially if you’re carrying multiple tools already on your person- but this isn’t necessarily unique among heavier-duty models either so don’t let this deter you too much unless lightweight gear is absolutely essential criteria in selecting equipment options available within budget constraints.

Final Words

When choosing between these two top-notch products based upon our research findings here today we would recommend going with whichever suits individual preferences better overall given specific needs/requirements/preferences weighed against pros & cons outlined above.