It's probably safe to say that few, if any, of our readers are unfamiliar with LT Wright Knives. If you've seen them at Georgia Bushcraft, Blade Show, or online, then there is a really good chance you've seen one of their most popular models, the GNS.

The GNS is a great all-around camp knife capable of tackling camp chores, bushcraft tasks, and pretty much any cutting needs you might have. Before we dive further into the features of the GNS, we wanted to get some background on this modern legend, so we went straight to the source. Mike Henninger of LTWK is the designer of the GNS, and he provided some insight into how this blade became a reality. 

GABC: Before the inception of the GNS, how did you get started at LT Wright Knives? 

Mike: I have been working at BHK/LTWK since 2010. I started doing marketing and quickly transitioned into running the SRI magazine as well. I was invited out into the shop in 2013 and have been splitting my time between the shop and office ever since. I enjoy creating something from a pile of materials that is a tool that you can rely on to make it through any situation you find yourself in.

GABC: What was the inspiration for the GNS? 

Mike: LT and I were discussing several things we got on the topic of a knife for the magazine. LT started asking me what I wanted in a knife and I began describing the mental image of the GNS to him, and he started drawing and that is how the Self Reliant came to be. It became the GNS during one of the Blind Horse monthly specials when they wanted to run a less fancy version (sort of a sleeper) and that is where the Go No Show name came to be.

GABC: Given there are many variations, what is your favorite variation of the GNS? 

Mike: I really like AEB-L as a steel, so that for sure, and the A2 variant that some of the dealers is pretty cool as well, but nothing beats a well-earned O1 patina.

GABC: Agreed! The O1 version we tested has been great. Thanks for taking the time to give us some insight into the origins of this great model.

READ MORE: 5 BEST BUSHCRAFT KNOTS

LT Wright GNS Review

It should come as no surprise that we've been nothing but happy with the two GNSs that we've been testing. As a matter of fact, it's made me miss the full convex version I had several years ago. Of the two versions, I think I prefer the saber ground LTAC. It is thin enough for slicing and carving but has more than enough backbone for batoning and heavy use. The blacked-out full flat grind is just as capable, and I find that it slices a bit better, but it seems to want to bite into wood more than the saber ground version. In all honesty, the natural micarta scales may be what pushes the LTAC version into the lead. 

Admittedly, I'm usually not a fan of contoured handles. Give me a broomstick, barrel-shape, or even slab scales, and I'm happy. However, the contouring of the GNS has been great across a variety of tasks. The swell at the front of the scales doesn't get in the way when you want to choke up for detailed work. On the opposite end, the slight curve of the pommel locks your hand in, and it provides a confident grip during heavy use. 

With an overall length of 9.5 inches and a blade measuring 4.45 inches, I categorized the GNS as a mid-sized knife. It's nimble enough for detailed carving, like the pictured line holder, but you can also baton wrist-sized wood with ease.

For a mid-sized blade for backcountry or everyday duties, the GNS would undoubtedly serve you well. It's available in a variety of thicknesses, steels, grinds, and handle materials, so you can surely find one that fits your needs.