Jack Pyke Skinning Knives

I’ve probably tested all knives in the Jack Pyke range but never these two – the only skinners they supply. The first is the aptly named 3.5” Skinning from their general range of blades, and the second is the 4” Skinner from their Platinum Range; this latter knife has a higher grade of Stainless Steel.

NECK KNIFE

The 3.5” Skinning is 5 ¾” long with a 3 ½”blade, it has a 1” diameter forefinger hole and weighs 2.6oz unsheathed. The handles look like rosewood but the company are honest enough to state ‘polished hardwood.’ It’s quite an attractive little design helped by what is termed a ‘black crackle granite effect blacking finish’ on the blade. It comes with a polymer sheath and neck lanyard. It’s sensibly designed as when you slip the skinner in a ‘lug’ engages with the finger hole and locks it in position. So no worries about it accidentally falling out unaided!

As an airgun hunter first and foremost, I’d say if you need a blade that offers ease of access and can quickly ‘unzip’ a rabbit or hare in the field; this is certainly one of the best I’ve used in this price range.

BIGGER, BETTER!

Now to the 4” Skinner from the Platinum Range, which by the way includes a lifetime warranty; not bad at all! The English Oak Camo pattern handle stands out giving this a cosmetic appeal if you like the look! Like its stablemates in the Platinum Range it comes in a foam-lined presentation tin. This also holds the sheath with belt loop also in camo which is a theme that runs through the range. The handle scales are made from a textured synthetic while the blade is robust and heavy duty – not surprising as it’s manufactured from 440HC Stainless Steel.

Measuring 6 ½” long with a 4” blade it weighs 3.3oz and feels a lot more substantial and handy. I think the extra 0.7oz and ½” more blade just gives it the edge over the smaller model. The over-large finger hole is ideally placed just forward of the deep (1”) stop. This will ensure there’s no possibility of you losing grip and your middle finger accidentally sliding forward onto the sharp edge.

Further security is offered by the line of deep jimping above and behind the finger hole. This will offer added purchase for your thumb if you need to exert extra pressure for heavier cutting tasks. Even though the blade dominates the handle it’s a skinning knife that even the most discerning hunter would be happy to own and use.

FOR
Well designed and manufactured with good edge retention

AGAINST
Camo finish might not be for everyone

VERDICT