Knife Showdown: RoseCraft Otter Creek Barlow vs. Sequatchie River Muskrat

RoseCraft Blades just dropped two fantastic new traditional slip joint knives: the Otter Creek Barlow and the Sequatchie River Muskrat. These beauties bring together the craftsmanship of Andy Armstrong with timeless materials, and both have their own unique charm. So, which one is the perfect fit for your collection? Let’s dive into the details and compare these two stunning knives.

Otter Creek Barlow: A One-Blade Wonder

The RoseCraft Blades Otter Creek Barlow is a compact powerhouse with a lot of style packed into its 3.5″ closed frame. With a 2.9″ D2 clip point blade, this one-blade slip joint delivers excellent utility for everyday tasks. The D2 steel, known for its durability and edge retention, makes this knife ready for anything from cutting rope to slicing an apple.

Its brushed satin finish adds a sleek, elegant touch, and the half-stop and swedging on the blade ensure that you get a smooth, precise feel every time you open it. Weighing in at just 2.7oz, this knife is light enough to carry comfortably all day, but still feels sturdy in your hand.

What truly sets the Otter Creek Barlow apart is its stunning handle. Made from genuine Yellow Sandalwood, each knife has its own unique grain pattern, making every piece a one-of-a-kind collectible. The brushed steel bolsters and steel liners add durability, while the signature Otter Print mark is a charming nod to the knife’s namesake. At just $58.99, the Otter Creek Barlow is a beautiful, affordable addition to any traditional knife lover’s collection.

Sequatchie River Muskrat: Double the Blades, Double the Versatility

If you’re someone who likes having more options in your pocket, the RoseCraft Blades Sequatchie River Muskrat might be calling your name. Based on an old traditional Muskrat pattern, this knife features not one, but two 3″ D2 slim clip point blades, one on each end. That’s right—double the cutting power! Each blade has heavy swedging, half stops, and the same brushed satin finish as the Barlow, ensuring a consistent, premium look and feel.

Measuring 3.88″ closed and 6.88″ open with one blade out, the Sequatchie River Muskrat is slightly larger than the Otter Creek Barlow, making it perfect for those who prefer a bit more knife in their hand. The black Micarta handles are durable and moisture-resistant, offering a rugged, workhorse vibe. Combined with brushed steel bolsters, steel liners, and the sleek Spade shield, this knife is both tough and stylish.

Despite its larger size and dual blades, the Muskrat weighs only 3.4oz, making it lightweight enough for daily carry but offering the versatility of two blades. At $61.99, it’s slightly more expensive than the Barlow, but that extra blade makes it a highly functional tool for anyone who needs a versatile EDC knife.

Design Details and Personal Touches

Both the Otter Creek Barlow and the Sequatchie River Muskrat are the brainchildren of Andy Armstrong, whose extensive background in knife design brings precision and beauty to every piece he creates. Armstrong’s designs, like the Clinch River Swayback, which won the 2023 BLADE Show Imported Knife of the Year, are known for their perfect blend of tradition and innovation.

With the Barlow, you get that classic, pocketable, one-blade look with a bit of flair, thanks to the Yellow Sandalwood handle. On the other hand, the Muskrat’s two blades give you more cutting options and a slightly more modern feel with its black Micarta covers. Both knives offer excellent build quality with D2 steel, half stops, and brushed steel bolsters, ensuring that you’re getting top-tier craftsmanship no matter which model you choose.

Which Knife is Right for You?

Now that we’ve laid out the details, it’s time to pick your side. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• If you love classic simplicity, the Otter Creek Barlow is the way to go. Its single clip point blade and compact size make it a great everyday knife with a stylish, traditional touch. Plus, the Yellow Sandalwood handle makes each knife truly unique.
• If you want versatility and more cutting power, the Sequatchie River Muskrat is your perfect match. With two blades and a slightly larger frame, it’s a bit more knife for those who like to have options. Its black Micarta handles give it a modern edge, while still maintaining that traditional slip joint charm.

Either way, you can’t go wrong with a RoseCraft Blades knife. Both the Otter Creek Barlow and the Sequatchie River Muskrat are fantastic options, whether you’re a collector, an outdoor enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates a finely crafted tool.

Head over to RoseCraft Blades and pick up your new favorite knife today—whether you choose the sleek one-bladed Otter Creek Barlow or the versatile two-bladed Sequatchie River Muskrat, you’re in for a treat!