If you’re new to MKC, you might look at our Speedgoat blade and Blackfoot blade and think that the only difference between the two is their handles.
It’s true that both models are alike in weight, dimensions, and intended purposes — but each knife has subtle differences the discerning owner will appreciate. So, which of the two is the best lightweight knife for you?
Let’s compare these well-crafted knives and help you determine which is best for your next hunting trip.
Blade Geometry
Many knives are overbuilt for their intended jobs, and this is especially true of the best lightweight knives. One common drawback is that they sacrifice strength for reduced weight.
Despite being so light, the Speedgoat and Blackfoot blades hold up in the field. Their sharpness and sturdiness surpass heavier knives while shedding valuable ounces.
The Blackfoot blade is slightly stronger and thicker than the Speedgoat’s. However, that doesn’t mean it works as a prybar.
The Blackfoot’s blade length is about a quarter inch shorter than the Speedgoat’s, but the overall length is the same. Because of that, the Blackfoot is easier to choke up on and control.
Both knives have a lot of tip, which is handy for caping out animals, going around the base of horns, working around tight skin, or cutting out the notoriously difficult tear ducts. (As someone who once worked in a taxidermy shop, I know what a pain those tear ducts are, and I considered that when crafting these blades.)
Comfort Handle vs. Paracord Wrap
Speedgoat Knife
Pros
Each one of the Speedgoat’s seven feet of 550 paracord is useful.
I often hunt a long way from my truck, and I had a bootlace break on one of my recent trips. I restrung my boot with the Speedgoat’s paracord, and the trek back was much more bearable than it would have been if I had to hike for miles without a bootlace.
You can also use the Speedgoat’s extra cordage to tie down your tent before a windstorm or hang meat away from bears and mountain lions.
Alternatively, you can tie your trophy’s horns to your pack to keep them from flopping around during your hike back to camp. If you’re dressing out an elk yourself, you may hold the cavity open with the paracord and a tree to manage the animal. You can do all that while still using the Speedgoat’s blade.
The Speedgoat even fits into its sheath without the cord handle. This knife works well in the hand with or without the paracord.
Another benefit of the paracord handle is its thinness. A thin handle helps the knife lay flat against your body without protruding. That’s a big advantage for those who like to carry concealed. Plus, if you’re a hunter, the Speedgoat will lay flat against your pack and won’t snag on your gear.
Cons
Unfortunately, the paracord is a pain to clean when it gets bloody and dirty, and you have to take time to rewrap the handle after you use it. That’s why we designed the Speedgoat to be easily rewrapped.
If you don’t want to rewrap your Speedgoat yourself, you can take advantage of the MKC Generations® promise and send it to us instead. We’re happy to clean it up, rewrap it, and even sharpen your blade free of charge.
Blackfoot Knife
The Blackfoot’s G10 handle consists of plastic polymer. It sheds dirt, blood, and grease like nobody’s business and is impervious to soap and water. If you plan to use your knife for tough tasks, you may appreciate how easy it is to clean the Blackfoot.
The Blackfoot’s handle is thicker and sticks out a little more than the Speedgoat, but in exchange, you get more area to grip. Knife owners with larger hands may find the “real” handle more comfortable. You’ll also have a smaller chance of getting blisters or hot spots with the Blackfoot.
An Extra Consideration
While we don’t skimp on the quality of our paracord handles, it’s unavoidable that cloth will fray long before G10 breaks down. While replacing a paracord handle is easy, the Blackfoot may be a stronger choice if you don’t want to deal with that extra variable.
Weight and Feel
The Speedgoat and Blackfoot are light, but at only 1.7 ounces, the Speedgoat is ultralight.
The Blackfoot is also particularly light compared to similar knives. If you’ve never used the Speedgoat, you’ll think the Blackfoot is the lightest knife you’ve ever held.
If you’re the kind of backpacker who counts ounces, the Speedgoat is the best lightweight knife for you. It’s the perfect blade to keep strapped to your hunting or backpacking supplies. If you’re not worried about weight, go with the Blackfoot, especially if you plan to use it for extended periods.
Variations
The Speedgoat and Blackfoot come in enough variations to please any knife enthusiast. We don’t just mean colors, either — both knives have multiple cosmetic and functional versions to choose from.
Durability
Let’s say you love the Blackfoot’s design, but the best lightweight knife for you is a little more durable. You need a blade that stands up to rain and moisture better than the original’s black Parkerized finish.
If that sounds like you, choose the MagnaCut Blackfoot 2.0. Thanks to the stainless blade, this variation maintains everything you enjoy about the original but with more environmental resistance. (The Speedgoat comes in a MagnaCut variation, too.)
Portability
If you think the Speedgoat is the best lightweight knife but want a more portable blade you can stash in your pocket, the Mini-Speedgoat 2.0 is perfect for you.
Other Variations
If you don’t want a paracord handle, try the Speedgoat Ultra, a MagnaCut version of the Speedgoat with a featherlight carbon fiber handle.
The Blackfoot comes in a Traditions Edition with a throwback desert ironwood handle.
Final Thoughts: The Best Lightweight Knife for You
When MKC fans ask me what the best lightweight knife is, I ask them what kind of person they are. What types of jobs do they do? What percentage of time will their knife spend on their pack versus elsewhere? Where and how often do they plan to use it?
The Blackfoot is great for heavy work and heavy use, like carving wood. For simpler jobs where you want to carry light, go with the Speedgoat.
It’s hard to go wrong with either knife, but I hope these subtle differences make your decision a little easier.
by Josh Smith, Master Bladesmith and Founder of Montana Knife Company
