[ctrout]

I recently posted a thread about my Gerber Applegate-Fairbairn Combat Folder. The knife is fairly large and not well suited to daily off-duty carry so I was thinking of dumping the Applegate for something in a reasonable price range. I am looking for something in either D2 or S30V. So far I have come up with this knife http://www.wildeals.com/lone-wolf-lc17305pln-harsey-t1-tactical-rosewood-plain-p-70.html I can get it with either the rosewood as shown (which I really like) or with G-10 grips. Can anyone recommend a comparable folder for a comparable price in D2 steel? I am having a bit of trouble finding one.

[Boats]

The Ka Bar Dozier D2 folders are the only ones I am aware of available in D2 and below $100.00

http://www.knifecenter.com/knifecenter/kbar/images/4060_large.jpg

[ctrout]

That is a beautiful little knife! Thanks. I also found this one. http://www.myknifesource.com/MVC-00456S.JPG
Both of these look really nice for around $60. Can anyone here attest to their quality? Also, of the three knives, which would probably be best for normal day-to-day general pocket-knife type use? S30V or D2?

[Kacerdias]

I've been very happy with my daily carry knife. It's a Benchmade "Gaucho" 12800 folder. It's an Osborne reverse tanto design and keeps a wicked edge. The axis lock is a great feature and worth it. Though the knife has an MSRP of mid $150's, I got mine for about $100 new.

[7ranquilcitizen]

Some Walmarts carry the spyderco native in s30v for i think $40 or $50 which is quite a steal. Lonewolf makes some nice knives but I had noticed some folks complaining about the fit and finish a few months back. Then again most companies have slip ups here and there its about their customer service that matters. The benchmade 710 in D2 is a real nice knife but at about $100 usually. Cabela's has the popular benchmade griptilian and mini-grip in D2 for a good price. For a little more you can get the griptilian in s30v from doug ritter.
I like the Dozier thorn mentioned above and always wanted one but questioned it because of the handle material, might be a little bit slippery.

[glockman19]

a Classic Buck #110

[Glock22]

Benchmade Mini-Griptillian

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w18/180graingoldot/100_1757.jpg

[Hunter0924]

I agree with glockman19 about the Buck 110. My favorite lockback and my daily carry knife.
http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h264/Hunter1911/2006_04150016.jpg

[borrowedtime69]

i have a CRK&T M16-12Z with the tanto point. it has never failed me, the blade lock hasnt ever let the blade fold at the wrong time, it has a nice combo blade, and fits the hand well. also, its a 3" blade so its legal to carry where i live. -
Eric

[timmyb21]

There are just so many options and opinions for a good daily carry knife, so I'll just say that I have carried the Spyderco Endura for the last two years and it has been the best knife I have ever had. I live on a farm so I've carried a knife on me since about age 8. 20 years and a bunch of blades later, I'm buying another spyderco...Tim

[.cheese.]

A little more than the one you're looking at, but for $107 you can get the Doug Ritter Benchmade Mini Griptillian.

S30V steel

http://www.aeromedix.com/images/aeromedix/knives/minimk1_xl.jpg

For $8 more than that ($115) you can get the full size Doug Ritter Benchmade Griptillian:

http://www.aeromedix.com/images/aeromedix/knives/rskmk1full_xl.jpg

one of my daily carries is more or less the same as above, just with a combo edge (serrations) and a black coating:

http://www.aeromedix.com/images/aeromedix/knives/comboedge_xl.jpg

If not carrying that, I carry my regular Benchmade Griptillian (154CM steel), or my Buck Rush assisted-opening knife which I'm not even sure what steel it is, but I doubt it's super high-grade. I usually also carry a small knife too which is either a Leatherman Micra, Gerber mini-something-or-other, or swiss-army knife.

[Monty]

Love my Benchmade Griptilian and Benchmade 670 Apparition but I think both are 154CM.

Monty

[oregonshooter]

154CM is S30V

I've been packing the larger Ritter Griptillian for over a year. Awesome folder.

[.cheese.]

oregonshooter - say whaaaa?

154CM and S30V are not the same. Similar perhaps, but not the same.

Take a look here for the difference:
http://spyderco.com/edge-u-cation/steelchart.html

both are listed on that chart.

If I recall correctly, 154CM was originally designed for aircraft engine turbines whereas S30v was designed specifically for knives. S30v in my opinion is better than 154CM, but I like both.

[coelacanth]

I know Doug and a lot of experience went into those designs and from the samples I've handled the execution is nearly flawless. The KaBars are decent little blades but probably not suited for prolonged heavy use. D2 is an excellent choice but a bit less rust and stain resistant than the S30V if that is a consideration for you. Good luck - let us know how it turns out for you.

[kd7nqb]

my daily knife is a S&W Extreme Ops. I have it in 2 different variations. I love them both. They are inexpensive but I love them, they hold an edge nice and deal with most materials just fine. I have looked at the benchmade auto's that I like a lot too and cost me way more but I cant carry it at work so I have resorted to using the S&W's for both on and off-duty carry.

Both knives for retail under $30, but handle like 100+ knives.

[mister_wilburn]

Daily EDC is Benchmade 9050 auto. 154CM and sharp as a razor. Its a really good knife that go nowhere without.

[kgriggs8@yahoo.com]

"154CM is S30V
I've been packing the larger Ritter Griptillian for over a year. Awesome folder."

You don't know what you are talking about.

Check out the Benchmade 960. It is a little more than $100 I think but it is D-2 and it is not too large. I had one and I wish I had kept it instead of trading it.

[koja48]

I favor a Benchmade Osborne . . . light, thin, and a "you don't even know it's there" carry.

[12GA00buck]

I bought a gerber gator for $50 a few years back, its been in my pocket ever since. 3.5 in blade, half serrated, 154cm steel, decent knife for the price. The new "gator 2's" are made with cheap 420, so be warned.

[Chris Rhines]

I have several of those Doug Ritter Griptillians. Very good knife.

- Chris

[poor_richard]

Benchmade used to make a Griptillian in D2 (I think it was a Cabela’s exclusive). There are also the Ka-Bar Doziers that have already been mentioned. There aren’t a lot of folders being made in D2 (I think the reason is that it’s difficult to properly heat treat. Dozier is known as the expert in heat treating D2).

There is a lot of other variables that go into the performance of a knife blade other that the blade steel. Heat treat, edge geometry, and blade grind are all contributing factors. Buck’s 420HC (normally used on the 110, unless you custom order it) is a great example. It’s got very good edge retention. Another great example is the Boker Plus Subcom Folder (the original 420 SS version). The blade steel was 420, but it performed as well or better than some of the premium steel. People who actually tried that blade (including myself (were pleasantly surprised by it’s performance).

There are a lot of good, premium steels out there. 154CM, S30V, ATS-34, ATS-55, VG-10, ZDP-189. All are good. While I do own 154CM, S30V, and VG-10, I’ve only used VG-10. I like VG-10 because it’s easy to sharpen, yet is excellent at holding an edge. This has been with VG-10 knives from two different companies (although that doesn’t mean it’s a different manufacture).

I’ve heard a lot of people say that S30V is hard to sharpen. I’ve also heard people of the Queen subforum over at knifeforums say that D2 is hard to sharpen (think diamond hones). I haven’t tried S30V, so can’t speak on that. However, I have sharpened my Queen, and it is tough.

Can't go wrong with a Spyderco or Benchmade, although Spyderco's are a little less $$$.

[rbmcmjr]

154CM is S30V

As numerous others have noted, this is not true. 154CM is the same chemical composition as ATS-34, however. One is Hitachi, the other is American. CPM markets its own version, CPM-154, which supposedly gives 154CM the benefits of powder metallurgy, but I don't know if there are other tweaks.

[islandphish]

I've been carrying a Benchmade mini-Griptilian in D2 for several years now. I did buy it at Cabelas and it was about eighty bucks. This one has a post opening system instead of the hole. I would rather have the hole but it wasn't available at the time. She gets really sharp and stays that way longer than any other knife I have owned, but it does take a diamond stone for me to get it that way as I am not an expert sharpener.

This has been a great knife. I'm not nice to it but I don't abuse it either. I have cut wire and stuff like that. The blade has never had any major nicks that didn't come out on sharpening. I have also used it to field dress several deer but I did cheat and hatchet the pelvis. I'm not too into cutting out around the rear. The blade is still in fine shape although the black is wearing off quite a bit.

I recommend that knife.

[ctrout]

I have several knives in premium stainless (154CM and S30V). I didn't see much difference in blades until I got these knives. The 154CM is a Gerber Emerson Alliance and the S30V is the Gerber automatic 06. Both are excellent knives but I think that the 06 is a bit better quality. The S30V did not seem too difficult to sharpen and the edge is noticeably sharper than my Browning knife which is AUS8. Now that I have seen what a premium steel is capable of, I'd really like to find something that is reasonable for daily use. Having used the S30V, it has become my favorite and I will not downgrade to a lesser steel no matter how similar it may be. I am considering D2 because I have read that it performs better than any "true stainless" and is nearly stainless itself. Father's day and my birthday are about a week off so I'm waiting to see if my wife and kids have been paying attention but if not, I'll probably be picking up the black Ka-Bar Dozier Thorn sometime in July. I'll let you all know what I think.

[DogBonz]

I have been carrying a Benchmade/ Emerson CQC7 for over 10 years. Best folder ever made, IMHO.

[hso]

The Applegate Covert is a smaller sibling to your current duty knife.

The Dozier D2 Kabars are an excellent choice.

The Doug Ritter Griptilians (they're made for Ritter by Benchmade using Doug's blade design and therefore more properly called Ritters instead of Benchmade) are an excellent choice.

D2 and S30V are excellent blade steels. They are not the only excellent blade steels out there, though. A new CPM154 that Walter Brend has been trying out looks to be very impressive with near ideal properties (according to Walter). Others include S3V, M2, the European nitrogen steels and on and on. As said, 154 CM and ATS 34 are the same composition, with ATS 34 being Hitachi's version of 154 CM.

http://www.cutleryscience.com/reviews/blade_materials.html#T_D2

[rbmcmjr]

I want to try something in 3V for my next purchase. I am curious just how it compares with D2 and A2.

[ctrout]

The local Cabela's has seven of the Minigrips in D2 in stock. My wife knows that I have been looking at them. We'll see how things pan out after father's day and my birthday this week.

[rantingredneck]

I carry a CRKT Crawford Falcon. Good knife. I think it is either AUS 6 or 8. Can't remember. Too lazy to look it up.

[Jason_G]

My newest one:
Benchmade Mini-Griptillian. Mel Pardue blade design. I wanted the plain edge, but all they had was serrated at the store.
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e15/itsthewhitmans/jason/pic2.jpg

Jason

[Q-Lock]

I've got that same knife Jason. My father gave me mine for Christmas last year. It's been great so far, done everything I've asked of it. How's it treating you?

[retrieverman]

I have carried a Benchmade AFCK for several years, but I recently found a Benchmade 710 at a pawn shop for $30 and have carried it since. I am awaiting the arrival of an Emerson CQC-11 that should be here today. I bought it sight unseen off the internet, and I hope I like it at least as much as my Benchmades.

[Jason_G]

I've got that same knife Jason. My father gave me mine for Christmas last year. It's been great so far, done everything I've asked of it. How's it treating you?
I really like it, but it's new and different than what I've always carried. I'm used to liner locks, so the Axis is a bit different. I'm still reaching for that liner that isn't there, but I do really like it alot. I was leary of the lock at first, but it's a good strong lock. I really like the blade design too, and the knife is comfortable to hold. I'm used to the clip being attached to the other end of the knife though, so it takes me a little longer to get it out and opened. I wish the clip was reversible from end to end like it is for right to left. Other than that I've had no negative impressions from it. The edge was surprisingly sharp for a factory edge, I accidentally cut my fingerprint off of my right index finger when I first got it because I still hadn't gotten used to how it closes. The Axis lock gives it a little push on closing that I wasn't expecting. This is the first Benchmade I've owned. I like it alot, I wouldn't hesitate to buy another one if I needed a new folder.

Jason

[Mad Chemist]

Spiderco waved Endura, VG10 steel. I absolutely love this knife. It's almost as good as a fixed blade and has solved some legality of carry issues for me.

[cracked butt]

Spiderco waved Endura, VG10 steel. I absolutely love this knife
Me too. I feel almost naked or something's missing now if I pocket my standard Delica in the morning since I got the waved Endura.

I have a Spiderco Karambit in my pocket now that I just got a few days ago that I'm trying to get used to. Pros: its tight, solid, sharp, and very well made. Cons: its sharp, its scares me a bit, and a big shiny scare the sheeple portion sticks out of my pocket.

[Q-Lock]

I accidentally cut my fingerprint off of my right index finger when I first got it because I still hadn't gotten used to how it closes.

I found that out the hard way as well. You'll get used to it, and come to love it. Enjoy!

[trueg50]

Sorry to go slightly off topic, but you are looking for a knife for daily carry and not one to go on a commando mission into Iran correct?

Might I reccomend the CRKT Pointguard with a full, nonserated 3" blade. I got mine when I joined Boy Scouts 8 years ago, and have had nothing but good things to day about it. It is very well built, sturdy, confortable to carve, or open stuborn envelopes with. Plus it takes about 5 minutes on a good stone to put a razer sharp edge on it, and about 6 months to remove it. If it can survive 8 years of torture and have nothing but some scratches on the clip from me scraping against things, along with a total of 24 weeks of constant gritty work at a camp, it can survive anything.

http://www.crkt.com/ptguard.html

They also make a model called the M-16 which is another knife I have fallen in love with. All their knives come in a short variety good for everyday office carry, and a larger (usually 4"-5") flavor that is good for field carry. they also usually come in half serated or full "razor" blades.

http://www.crkt.com/m16edc.html

[Coronach]

For EDC/light use, I carry a Spyderco Calypso Jr. If I anticipate heavier use (going outside to work, going camping, etc) I carry a REKAT Carnivore. The REKAT is no longer made, but the Spyderco is available in multiple forms, including a laminate steel.

Mike

[wheelgunslinger]

I use the CRKT Van Hoy folder.
The shape makes it a good tool for pressure point strikes when unopened, and it's difficult to employ if you aren't familiar with it's opening/closing method. So, I worry less about someone taking it and using it on me if things go that way.

It's gets demerits for needing to be cleaned frequently, especially when I take it backpacking and cut lots of fruit and such with it. To be cleaned, it requires a couple of small tools (allen wrench and pliers/robogrips), but other than that it's a great knife for 30 bucks.
And, if I lose it, I'm not that worried since it's not a 100+ dollar knife.

[mljdeckard]

CRKT M-14 tanto full-size folder. Certainly the best folding knife I've ever owned, and it is with me ALWAYS.

[p35]

As a Philistine, I keep finding myself reaching for my SuperKnife. For most cutting jobs, a utility blade works fine.

[Coronach]

Including kicking off WWIII.

Sorry. Had to.

Mike

[p35]

That went over my balding head. You talking about 9-11?

[raginrednek]

i carry a spyderco native, paid $33 new on ebay. sharp, durable, well enough constructed to do the job, not so expensive that i would cry over its loss.
all spydercos are good knives, i have others. their cheapo Byrd line are decent knives as well.

[Cannonball888]

My wife packs it in my daily lunchbox when I go to work.

http://www.riversidepapercompany.com/images/jansan/plastic_knife_white.jpg

[sm]

I normally carry a yellow handled Case Bare Head Trapper with carbon steel blades.

Been testing and carrying a SAK Bantam for EDC for a bit now...


Most reached for is the $1.79 Carton Cutter bought at the hardware store.
One handed use, cuts boxes with strapping tape real well, easy to re-sharpen (flip razor blade over, or replace) and I just remove the blade , insert into handle and have scraper to get bugs off windshield , scrap off paint from windows, stickers and I sometimes find myself piddling with it at red lights, stop lights , slow traffic and other times while driving...

[eliphalet]

Buck Stockman all day everyday.
I don't carry a gun or knife for self protection. At least not 99.9% of the time. Even then I don't plan on bringing a knife to a gun fight.

[sm]

Even then I don't plan on bringing a knife to a gun fight.

Agree.

[HiWayMan]

Schrade Old Timer Stockman, and a CRKT M16-13Z. I predominatly use the the stockman for most cutting tasks, but I like having a single blade lockback for cutting pipe and small trees down on the job.

All this talk of my knife steel is better than your knife steel is really just mental masturbation.

[Stainz]

I ventured to Wally World yesterday afternoon - almost came home with a Spyderco 'Native' (S30V)
#C41PBK $39.48 - may yet have it. Later, I found them from that price on E-Bay up to $91.95 at another site, despite Spyderco's site indicating $74.95 as MSRP. It is made in Golden, CO - and comes by itself in the box, ie, no money wasted on a nylon holster. Wally World on-line lists the Spyderco as 'O.O.S.', so you may just have to try a few stores to find one.

Last week found me picking up some closeout Puma's from the local 'Academy Sports/Outdoors' chains. One was a manmade/steel lockback - a 'Sportec' I have seen at $49.97 from a familiar mail order supplier - $18.88 closeout locally. Odd how addictive knives are... I bought a few more, all with stag handles. If I cut the grocery bill close this week - maybe a return trip to Wally World this AM...

Stainz

[KINGMAX]

Kershaw Ken Onion Blackout w/ straight edge. Open assisted for forty-nine dollars.

[whited]

I carry a variety of fixed blade knives.

[3 gun]

Daily for me includes a Cold Steel Voyager and Leatherman Wave.

[Stainz]

My wife made a dash to Wally World (~.5 mi) to meet her mom to look over shirts and sandals while I was watching 'The Closer' last Monday evening. Upon returning, she put that Spyderco in my lap... $43.03 with s/t. I smiled... still smiling. Very sharp - well made - states 'Golden, Colorado USA Earth' on one side, 'SPYDERCO CPMS30V' on the other side of the blade. I've never warmed up to clips - easily removed for side reversal - or, in my case, to be left in the box, with the hollow bolt/nut replaced in the knife. Good everyday carry, although the Kershaws & Benchmade Gryptillian are a bit faster to open upon presenting. Still, it's in my pocket now.

Stainz

[Griff]

At work:
SAK Rambler http://www.newgraham.com/detail.aspx?ID=4608
with a small LED flashlight on the lanyard http://www.newgraham.com/detail.aspx?ID=7163
and a Spyderco Dragonfly http://www.newgraham.com/detail.aspx?ID=3811

At elsewhere:
Benchmade AFCK http://www.zknives.com/knives/folding/benchmade/bmafck.shtml

Sorry, can't do pics at the moment.

[ctrout]

I realize that I'm resurrecting an old thread but I started it so I figure it's mine to do with as I please. Anyway, I finally broke down and got the Ka-Bar Dozier folding hunter in D2. I found a good sale and got it for $55 to my door. I immediately reprofiled the edge to 20 deg with my Lansky and it just didn't seem to be as sharp as I had imagined so I tried it at 17 deg and that made a huge difference. Hair popping sharp! I used it to cut a qesadilla on a paper plate on a wood cutting board and the blade became tangibly and visibly dull. What a disappointment. I've only had it for two days so the jury is still out but I'm wondering if Ka-Bar just doesn't have the heat treat process on D2 down to a science yet. I'm guessing it may be too hard and with a fine edge it is too brittle to stand up to what I consider average use. I thought that a 17 degree edge on this small (3 inch) knife in a premium steel wasn't unreasonable. Ka-Bar recommends a 15 deg edge but my Lansky only goes down to 17. Looks like I may have to spend the $75 and thry the Lone Wolf Harsey T1 next.

[Stainz]

My KaBar #4062 Dozier Drop Point Folding Hunter, made in Taiwan, was a bargain several years ago. It was $21 - and sharp - and resharpenable - by someone other than me - I had miserable luck. I paid $3 at a gunshow, and it was returned to it's 'sharpness' - for a while. Last summer found me succumbing to the Spydie 204 Sharpmaker - now, it's sharp. I believe it is a 420-ish steel - probably AUS6. The heat treating is the key - Buck's 420HC heat treated by Paul Bos is super - a $25 Wally World Buck 110 is a hard act to follow.

As I said in an earlier post, my wife shocked me last June with a Spyderco Native in S30V. It became my instant EDC. I looked the edge over with an 8x loupe when it arrived - it has a slightly uneven edge, displaying the grit lines to the dage from it's sharpening. I said to myself it needed time with a hone or strop. It still does... one day, I'll get around to it! It still shaves armhair.

It has a thumb hole in place of the KaBar's stud - and more pronounced thumb grip notches on it's spine. It's edge is ~ 3/8" shorter in length - at least as thick at the spine - and S30V steel. Made in the USA - on Earth, too. A better grip than the Dozier, which has little to keep your forefinger from slipping across the blade, while you can place it in the finger groove in the blade or back on the grip. Check it out at Wally World. Seriously, a buy.

Oh, the Sharpmaker hs 15 and 20 degree settings.

Stainz

[ctrout]

I have looked at the native and it just doesn't do it for me. I can say without hesitation that it is a high quality knife and the build quality is outstanding. It's kind of like Glock vs 1911 though. I know that the Glock is an exceptional design and almost indestructable. I just don't personally like the feel. I would never try to steer a prospective buyer away from one though because I know that it is a great firearm. I prefer the 1911. Most of my cutting is done opening packages or cutting strings and 550 cord so I'll give it 6 months or so and see how this blade holds an edge. If I am less than thrilled after that time, I will probably go for the Harsey. I'll probably end up getting the Harsey anyway. I only went with the Dozier first because I really wanted to try D2 and I already have S30V. So far, it seems to me that the S30V holds the better edge in the knives that I personally own.

[FourNineFoxtrot]

Gerber Applegate-Fairbairn Mini-Covert folder. $20 on eBay, hasn't failed me yet.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31v-LgPQxCL._AA280_.jpg

[MaterDei]

Kershaw Scallion.

[pbhome71]

I carry Gerber Resolve. It is actually a multitools.

http://www.gerber-tools.com/Gerber-resolve-22-09462.htm

http://www.gerber-tools.com/images/Gerber-Resolve-Multiplier-22-09462-350x350.gif

[the iron horse]

A Gerber Paraframe II

[Bat22]

I've got a Kershaw Scallion. It's compact with a pocket clip and a smooth, speedy unfolding.

[mossberg]

There may be several good knives, but a great knife has a hole in the blade. Maybe a wave as well.

[Ought Six]

I carry an Applegate-Fairburn Covert daily (the regular, not the mini). I am quite pleased with it.

[sm]

Since this thread started it dawned on me I forget to mention a Case Peanut, yellow handle with Chrome Vanadium blades.

See I was born in '55 , and a Case Peanut was tossed into my dresser draw crib along with a revolver when I came home from being born.

I've always used a Peanut, and most times had one with a Case Slimline Barehead Trapper, Stockman, Sodbuster ....or Hen & Rooster, Boker or one of the custome jobbies I had with Carbon Steel Blades, with Ivory handles or whatever.

My circle of travels change, as they do, and I only EDC this Case, yellow handle Peanut with CV blades.

If, I can do that.

Metal detectors, subject to search, wands, restrictive policy...

One is not going in with anything...unless its meets what is "legal".

Sure glad I was raised to not depend on gun, knife and all.as my only options.
As I and folks like me, know about harms' way, and not having a gun, or knife.

Peanut and I do just fine...we once did 4 weeks in Canada canoing and portaging...
We have done a minimalist survival dealie for a week...

A Peanut of mine has done a emergency trach..medical person needed a sharp knife, I had one...

[Frandy]

A June 2007 question and nearly a year later, I say - Get it...cause I just bought one myself. :evil:

And for those who asked, the box and Lone Wolf Web site say that it's rosewood. Some think that it is "cocobolo rosewood" (Dalbergia retusa), but I don't have a clue.... I do like the wood though, and on my iMac, the color in the photos is quite accurate.

http://homepage.mac.com/franman/.Pictures/knives/Lone_Wolf_Harsey_T1_Tactical_April_24_2008_1000.jpg

[Pilot]

Frandy,

Nice Lone Wolf T1! I've got the T2 Harsey but with the synthetic grips. I love the cocobolo!

I mostly carry my Benchmade 941, Combat Elite RRF or Lone Wolf T2.

I ventured to Wally World yesterday afternoon - almost came home with a Spyderco 'Native' (S30V)
#C41PBK $39.48

That's one of the best deals going. Its a great little knife.

[Sniper X]

SOG Pentagon Elite II or a Teranni Streider in ATS34....got the Terani Streider today,, well this week! Sometimes carry my GT auto but paronoid cause it is a prototype worth a bunch of dough!

[jahwarrior]

try the spyderco native,as seen here: http://www.spyderco.com/catalog/details.php?product=20. i bought mine at walmart for a lot less than MSRP. it's s30v steel. i have no trouble sharpening it, or my other blades made from the same steel.

[sadlsor]

Interesting that 3 Gun is the only Cold Steel carrier/respondent., and otherwise Cold Steel hasn't been mentioned.

Ever since I "discovered" Lynn Thompson, his philosophy, and his company, all my other knives have retired to a protective knife sock in the safe. I never started out to be a collector, and still don't consider myself one, but I must confess I have acquired over a dozen of his products, through the years. Busted or broken? Zero. Lost? One. :uhoh:

I carry a medium Voyager as a work-knife, but also an XL Voyager tanto-point for defensive purposes. Hopefully it will NEVER be used.

If you've never seen Cold Steel's Proof (DVD) or More Proof (DVD), you owe it to yourself. I have no stock in the company, and have never been an employee. Just sayin'...

As the years go by, I will tell you - I wonder, over and over - why hasn't any one of the 'big boys' stepped up to accept the Cold Steel challenge? It's been open to everyone for quite a number of years now. Wuzzup, Benchmade? Buck? Gerber? Emerson? Spyderco? Hello? Anyone out there? :confused:

Again, I'm not married to Cold Steel or anything, but it's just real curious...

[Huckle2]

Benchmade 812

[alaskanativeson]

Frandy's picture of his Lone Wolf made me want to show my own. I'll say this for them, they know how to pick good looking wood and use it well!

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g235/Rodgersplace/LoneWolf.jpg

[Frandy]

Hey Alaska...

There is one thing I don't like about my Lone Wolf T-1. My thumb was getting beat up from the nice-looking but awfully sharp-edged liner lock ridges. I took a dremel to them and softened those edges. Now, I can close the knife all day long without my thumb aching! :p
http://www.thehighroad.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=77226&stc=1&d=1209218354

[The Tourist]

why hasn't any one of the 'big boys' stepped up to accept the Cold Steel challenge?

I've seen the DVDs myself. Most of it is simply tests that most cutlers have to pass to get into a guild.

I've also owned CS knives, or bought them for my clients. Frankly, any Strider I own is stronger than any knife in the CS line. And asking +400 dollars for a Black Sable that's made out of some pretty mundane steel is simply hubris (it's a laminate, hard steel in the middle, cheaper steel on the outside). And their Rhino knife is just AUS-8A.

My question is much the reverse. Why does Thompson have to shout at the top of his lungs to sell knives. As we all know, MercWorx sold knives in secret to soldiers and working mercenaries and never advertised at all. In fact, they didn't want civilian business.

Oh, I would buy a Voyager, I'll admit that. If I had to go to California I would buy a something like a four-inch, plain edge, clip point Voyager. After a decent sharpening, I would send it ahead to the hotel where I was staying. After my meeting/vacation, I would either ship it back or just give it to a friend there.

If it got broken, lost, stolen or discarded to avoid a metal detector, so what? At least it wouldn't be one of my Emersons.

[auschip]

Interesting that 3 Gun is the only Cold Steel carrier/respondent., and otherwise Cold Steel hasn't been mentioned.

Ever since I "discovered" Lynn Thompson, his philosophy, and his company, all my other knives have retired to a protective knife sock in the safe. I never started out to be a collector, and still don't consider myself one, but I must confess I have acquired over a dozen of his products, through the years. Busted or broken? Zero. Lost? One.

I carry a medium Voyager as a work-knife, but also an XL Voyager tanto-point for defensive purposes. Hopefully it will NEVER be used.

If you've never seen Cold Steel's Proof (DVD) or More Proof (DVD), you owe it to yourself. I have no stock in the company, and have never been an employee. Just sayin'...

As the years go by, I will tell you - I wonder, over and over - why hasn't any one of the 'big boys' stepped up to accept the Cold Steel challenge? It's been open to everyone for quite a number of years now. Wuzzup, Benchmade? Buck? Gerber? Emerson? Spyderco? Hello? Anyone out there?

Again, I'm not married to Cold Steel or anything, but it's just real curious...

Folks talk about Cold Steel here regularly. Heck, a quick search will show you that. Many here don't like Lynn's ethics, specifically with regard to where his knife designs come from.

As an aside, I believe several have taken and beat them in the "Challenge". Busse comes to mind, but I couldn't find the link.

[The Tourist]

There is info on Busse beating CS at rec.knives if memory serves.

Frankly, Thompson ought to be glad people don't challenge him. The knife community is the "biggest little small town" in the world. I think less of Thompson simply because of his stance on Mick. Ya' know, sometimes it's better to just shut up and appear stupid then open your mouth and remove all doubt.

[JShirley]

Busted or broken?

Actually, I've seen a Cold Steel Bushmaster broken. Fellow staff member Byron Quick was also present.

I used to own quite a few CS products, and have given them to friends and family. I'll still buy them if I find them discounted heavily enough- i.e., practically free.

John

[motorep]

For daily carry- I'm kind of partial to Spyderco, with a bit of Chris Reeve thrown in. Working around the house, I usually have a Native in my pocket. Wearing business pants/Dockers I carry a Viele or mid size Goddard, the micarta is easier on the pockets. Wearing jeans I generally carry a large Sebenza in my back pocket or a small sebenza in front pocket. I have a couple dozen Spydercos, the Native is still my favorite.

[JShirley]

I don't have that many Spydies, but G10 certainly is hard on pants! I prefer aluminum, FRN, or micarta myself, and the Native is my all-around favorite, as well. :)

John

[Dksimon]

I carry a buck collegue, Its pretty small buy I live on campus and carrying a knife is legal but it gets you funny looks and I dont want to print it and have the UPD called.

[The Tourist]

Its pretty small

The last two knives I have purchased are under two inches. One was an Emerson Snubby, and the other was a Graham Brothers Stubby.

Do not let their small size fool you, they are among the strongest, most durable knives offered.

The Graham is made from S30V, it wears a polished edge and it cuts like a razor blade.

[alaskanativeson]

I don't have a problem with the liner lock ridges on my Lone Wolf but I don't like the feel of the thumb stud opener. I doubt it's the knife itself, it's probably more that I have gotten so used to the big hole on my Spyderco Native III, my Spyderco Centofante III, or either of my Benchmade Pikas, the larger one or the smaller one. That's one thing that worries me about getting a Sebenza. I'll probably drive by Chris's shop this summer while I'm down in The World (as opposed to being up here near the Arctic Circle teaching) to handle one and see what it feels like. If Chris'd put a large hole in one of his blades to open it I'd plunk down whatever he asked for the price of it. (Maybe I could find someone who could just make me a replacement blade for my Lone Wolf and a Seb?)

One other thing I don't like about the Lone Wolf is the position of the clip. I prefer to carry the knife tip up in my pocket. The other folders I listed above either have tip-up carry clips or, in the case of the Centofante and the Pika, they have clips that reverse for either carry.

As for handle material, put me down as one who dislikes G10. I really hate the feel of it in my hand. I like zytel, kraton, micarta, wood, just about everything else I've handled but I really dislike the feel of G10.

[hso]

Let's not drift too far away from the original direction fo the thread and into "why do/don't you love CS".

As to why Lynn does what he does? Marketing. One word, 3 syllables. It catches customers. Why don't other companies "take the test"? They have their own marketing approach and don't need to intrude on Lynn's shtick.

[The Tourist]

the original direction of the thread

Agreed. I would like to make one observation.

In this type of thread, the underlying idea is for the OP to get ideas for upcoming purchases, or perhaps avoid making a mistake. Maybe the OP has some extra cash from over-time pay and simply wants a new toy.

Honestly, I cannot make a recommendation without touching on the CS myth and shadow.

For example, if a client came to me and wanted "the best for the least," I would simply get him a Spyderco Native. (BTW, we're assuming here a local guy who's already is a client.)

For that man, it's a blend of positives and negatives.

First, the pros, then the cons. Because of limited funds and my buying power, I can get him more bang for the buck. A Native comes in S30V, which is a tremendous deal for a guy on a tight budget. Three, if he's my client, he gets "life sharp."

If I simply stop the conversation there, I am still an influence on the purchase.

However, HSO, I will warn him of the cons, or the negatives.

If his money is tight, he's going to guard his purchasing power, he is assuming that the knife will last forever--or at least until something better comes along or his current assignment is over.

In that scenario, I also warn him about hype. The idea of hype also influences his purchase.

[sm]

hso wrote:
Marketing. One word, 3 syllables. It catches customers.

The Tourist wrote:
In this type of thread, the underlying idea is for the OP to get ideas for upcoming purchases, or perhaps avoid making a mistake. Maybe the OP has some extra cash from over-time pay and simply wants a new toy.


The Tourist wrote:
If his money is tight, he's going to guard his purchasing power, he is assuming that the knife will last forever--or at least until something better comes along or his current assignment is over.

In that scenario, I also warn him about hype. The idea of hype also influences his purchase.



Agree with above quotes.

Back in the day, we as a society, was less "civilized" and were tool users.
Money was tight, and one did not have a lot of choices to choose from , as the selections were limited and locations near folks is what they had to choose from.

Try before you buy and investigate and verify was the way things were done.

$2 for a knife was a lot of money! So a farmer for instance, would actually ask to see knives other farmers were actually using.
While he handled each, farmers each shared the pros and cons of that knife.

"Well I am getting older and hands and fingers get stiff with arthritis, so I took a half round file to remove some handle, so I could get to the nail nick better to open it".

"My hands are big and fingers fat, my knife fits me, but you got small hands and fingers, try Joe's knife, his is like mine, just a bit smaller".

"Oh I drop knives and set them down, them yeller handles makes it easier for me to spot them"

etc.

Needs vs Wants comes into play.
Some folks lived their whole like and only had one knife, $2, a lot of money, and that pocket knife was used, still it was not abused.
In needing to pry a paint can - knife stayed in the pocket, and they got up off their butt, and went a got a screwdriver , and if really lucky a paint can pry tool.

Folks approached how a task needed to be done, and being tool users, they had skill sets.
If all they had was a pocket knife, they thought it through, and went slow and easy.
If all the lady had was a small pen knife, she cut that apple different for a kid than how she would back home with a paring knife.


WE got civilized.
WE did not have to do some tasks we used to, folks had city jobs, and as time passes, some tasks were already done, by them "store bought" items.
Buy that package of apples already cut small, for a kid, and a lady don't need a small pen knife.

WE lost skill sets, because if you don't use it, you lose it ,and if you don't need to cut a apple for a kid, you get out of practice, and can't.

Marketing kicked in, Credit Cards allowed folks to buy stuff.
Radio and TV "said" you "gotta have this to do that".

Oh I have nothing against pride of ownership, having nice stuff, heck even using a credit card to get something, instead of saving up, or doing lay-a-way.

I understand a wife, husband, even a kid don't really "need" that knife, but that wife just made over something pretty in MOP handles, that husband wants a handsome knife , or that kid just thinks that knife is so cute or pretty and "just my size, can I have it?".

Global Society with Internet.

One has to laugh, if they are honest, as folks are getting knives that were and still are tools , used from other places around the world.

I mean a Opinel looks a lot like a Sodbuster.
They are both the "working persons knife", of the peoples that made and used them.

Old Hickory Butcher knife resembles a Green River...

I carry a Case Peanut, just a early 1900 pattern design.
Case patterns like Stockman, Trapper, and Sodbuster have been around a long time as well. Other Companies make these patterns.

I guess I was in HS, before I saw and handled a Swiss Army knife , and Buck knife.
First thing I noticed on the Stockman, Buck had the blades in the wrong order.
My Case had the blades in the right order, so did some other brands.
Buck still has these in the wrong order according to how I come up.


The Tourist , hso, and I are on the same page, even though we "read" we are different.

Daily carry, and restrictions said some folks could not have a knife over 3" closed, it could not lock.

I was talking to hso and he suggested Rough Rider and Buck's knives made in China, to let folks handle and see if the pattern was for them.
I had Peanuts, which some already had, and use, but some wanted something different.
Tried that China Buck like a Buck Lancer made in USA.
So some folks leave the nice sentimental Peanut at home and use a Lancer.

The Tourist comes into play too.
A lady was wanting a nice kitchen knife, her husband asked me, and I don't know, but I know The Tourist does.

So I did a search using The Tourist , not only here on THR, other forums too.
I had some ideas and names and - I have no idea what this stuff is, honestly I don't.
That wife went to a cooking deal, a fun deal with some other ladies.
She got to handle some knives.
Her husband said "Here are some ideas that come recommended but honey, I don't know, but a starting point".

She was "armed" with education , a little bit, still she went in informed.
She found one that fit her hand, it was good looking and she liked it.
She wrote down all the information. It is not the most expensive, but it fits her and that was a non gift giving day gift.

Oh some of the other gals got more expensive ones, and time passes and they don't really fit their hands and ...they bought because it was expensive and everyone else was buying them.
I understand some of these knives, now never get used, or have been sold.

I have had some custom knives, darn things look like old patterns, with carbon steel blades, but still custom with nice handles.

Lots of folks I come in contact with have new, fancy knives, or SAKs.
That is fine for them...
Just that ain't me, and I was never one to have to the newest or most marketed stuff.

I currently have some "needs", can't get them.
I have some wants, maybe someday, but for me, I have needs.

The Tourist assists folks with his expertise.
hso assists with his.
Valkman his .

You need a dumb old southern boy to give input on a traditional knife you saw in a Case knife display at the hardware store, tractor supply , or feed and seed, I can offer some input.

It is all good...

Try before you buy, investigate and verify, but get what fits you.
Get quality for monies spent...
Not Hype.

[JTW Jr.]

Try before you buy, investigate and verify, but get what fits you.
and that folks sums it all up right nicely !! :)

[The Tourist]

The Tourist , hso, and I are on the same page, even though we "read" we are different.

I have come to the conclusion that we three are "brothers by different mothers." In many ways our responses could be, been there, done that, invented half of it.

That's the problem here. How can you provide info without seemingly preaching and without being too negative? After all, the knowledge we might have comes from getting kicked in the head, so why not let the next group of folks have that same "benefit."

Simply, I define the main thrust of thread as an information gathering debate. From most of the posts I see a suggestion on a knife, but also an editorial comment.

As you have mentioned, some choices are not so clear. I love Opinels. In one case I carried a four-inch Opinel as my only knife to demonstrate its good points to my friends. To be sure, an Opinel and a Strider will look very different to a newb.

In making a statement on Cold Steel, I'm not trying to depict myself as a CS hater. I've owned CS knives as my personal choices.

Let's say this. Suppose a newb wanted to leave town on his motorcycle on a highway to which I am familiar. I knew from experience that a curve in the road was often covered in silt from winds in that area. I would caution him, "Hey, bro, watch for sand in the corners."

I wouldn't belittle his judgement, his bike, his choice of roads or his common sense.

I make the same opinion on this topic. CS has some useful knives. A client of mine uses one of their folders in VG-1 and it's his favorite knife. I have had some experience with others.

I offer suggestions, and I suggest caution.

In fact, if the decision was up to me, I'd simply tell the OP to garner the classics in the knife industry. For that, get a Buck 110, a Buck 102, a CQC-7, an Opinel, a Spyderco of a good alloy, a Japanese laminate Gyuto, a filet knife for fish costing more than 15 dollars, and a jar for left-over daily change.

When the jar was full, buy a Strider.

[Valkman]

What we all want is quality, whether it comes in a $20 Case or a $400 Strider it doesn't matter to me. Listening to hype and reading mall-ninja ads won't get you the best but gathering info like SM said and getting a starting point will let the buyer make his own choice once he can "see" what is quality and what is not.

Most here won't buy a $400 Strider, but what about a $1500 Todd Begg folder? Most of the guys who make custom folders are booked for years because some people know they're buying a knife that'll never go down in value and that means a lot. One Strider is all I can afford and is great for daily carry (along with a Case and a SAK) but I wish I could invest in some of the good stuff as it will go up in value.

[The Tourist]

invest in some of the good stuff

When I was 23 years old, more than 60% of my yearly income went for customized Harleys.

I see lots of boys in threadbare jeans with Sebenza's, and Emersons and Striders. Truth be told, I shouldn't be buying Striders, I'm on a fixed income.

I watched a TV show a few nights ago where a gansta rapper was tooling around in a brand new Lamborghini. Like most these "singers," his career will be tomorrow's news shortly or he'll be shot or jailed or just go broke. But for right now, he needs and wants the status--and he does have the money.

When my Father passed away my brother had the job of liquidating eight decades of stuff piled to the rafters. Now, my Dad was always picky, and downright cheap in some areas. In other categories, he bought some nice stuff. I believe a church wound up this huge Wurlitzer or Hammond electric organ.

To some, it was all treasure, to my brother it was months of dealing with auction houses to move the junk.

My wife has told me that selling my Harley should bring enough cash for her to get to the Bahamas and scatter my ashes.

[sm]

What is one getting for monies spent?

This is important, and applicable to not only knives, anything!

Back in the day, before Marketing and folks had credit cards and all.
A Sale was a honest to goodness Sale.

Folks, knew what clothes were priced, and knew when winter was over, winter coats went on sale to get ready for Spring/Summer.
Getting ready for school, Stores had honest to goodness "Back to School" Sales, and shoe stores had honest sales on shoes for the kids.

Some changes were made, good and bad in regard to business practices, and as a result "Sale" lost credibility.

Do not insult my intelligence by taking a $20 oxford shirt, marking it up to $40, then running it on a "50% off Sale" and telling me I am getting a $40 short for $20.

For $20, I got quality for monies spent.
$40 is too much for that shirt, I will pay $40 for another item, of quality that is worth and honest $40.

I knew folks in the clothing business.
One fella said 4 different buyers for 4 different stores bought his shirts.
He showed me the paper.
Each store had their label in the shirt, and one paid 4 different prices for that shirt, depending on which store they purchased it from.

Individuals have a right to spend monies however they want, and if it means that much to have that shirt with that label , bought from that store, then the extra money for same shirt is "quality for money spent" to them.

Marketing drove this, with Peer Pressure and other factors.

Now using that same $20 shirt example, if the store says "we are getting in Spring/Summer shirts and marking down long sleeve shirts $10," and I get $2 off, and pay $18, that is a honest sale.

At one time the "law" in some places said an item had to be on the shelf/rack for so many days, at the "retail" price before it could have a "sale price".
I recall ladies and gents, needing nice shoes, and I mean nice, and the only place to get them local was one store.
[I will not mention the store, as they got busted and fined and was one reason some changes were made].

The price was too much! If one went out town they could them cheaper, and that added gas, time and travel to price of shoes.
Some had to have, and in essence paid too much.

The days clicked by, and then this sale "was legal" and folks paid what the shoes were really worth - the retail price.
Oh this caused an uproar!
This store had the exclusive rights to carry, and these were good shoes, and admittedly "popular".
It was the shoes to wear for a business professional and Marketing had affected the business setting.
One got fussed at for not wearing the current business fad shoe.

I remember if a guy did not wear a Gant shirt, his company fussed at him as the was giving the company a bad image.
Dead Serious.

Bond Daddy Era.
By golly one had to wear a two tone Rolex and drive a BMW, Benz, or some other "approved" car.
Around here, that Rolex had to have a blue dial.
Once one hit a certain level, they had to upgrade to a President.
If married, by golly the wife had better be wearing a Rolex too.

If one did not, it meant one was not a successful Bond Daddy and that reflected bad on the company.

You show up one morning in a Ford, you had better have a good reason, like it was your dad's car, and going to have it looked at.

Any of this sound familiar with today's society and marketing?
How about this, staying with Bond Daddy's.

One Bond House's "Image Rules".

-Pen knives on key chains and pocket watch chains, had to be 14k yellow gold or Sterling silver by B.A.Ballou.
That pocket watch had to be a real antique by the way and in the vest pocket with some clients and functions.

-Puma was the Lock Back knife, the stainless with black handle model, which came in a couple of sizes.
One used these in the office, at the hunting and fishing camps one paid big money to be a member of.
You gave that client you took to this club a Puma.

-Your wife, girl friend, mistresses...used Pumas too, as you made sure they had one, as you did your kids, nieces and nephews.

-BMW was the motorcycle.
Forget Harley, Honda, Kaws, Suzis...Bimmer was the Bike.

Puma meant that Bond Company and was a marketing tool to let the public know - whom YOU and YOURs were dealing with.

I am dead serious.
Office Supply company boxes typing paper comes in, were filled with NIB Puma knives, and one never left to meet a client over drinks or lines of cocaine without taking some , to pass out.

EDC, from cars, motorcycles, watches, clothes, shoes, sunglasses, eye glass frames, fountain pens, ink pens...

You were not spit, you did not fit in, you were out of fashion, you were not company material , and so much more if you did not have, own, use and do these things.

"What is that Buck 110 doing in this building!!" Bond Co Mgmt.
"I am going to have the handles done in 14k yellow gold and hand engraved for the client that just dropped a wad of cash with us" - Bond Daddy replied.
Hey, the coke dealer liked Buck 110s...*truth*


Today one has to have what is the current knife, marketed and targeted.
If one does not, one is not matriculated into whatever image, or role, or anything else.

Just like the Pumas, and other things that company had, it can come back to bite you in the butt.
Bond co is gone.
Lots of folks went to prison.
I know, how very well I know.

Don't tell me a Case Peanut is a $72 knife and it is on sale for "50% off" and I am getting a deal paying $36.
Local hardware, feed and seed, sell these out of displays for $32-$36.
The Case small Arkansas Hard stone is anywhere from $5.99 to $7.99 around here.

So a grandpa and grandson make that special trip , to let that boy stand on that wooden step up stool to grandpa again that Peanut he thinks is sooo neat and grandpa has one like it.

"Oh give me $36, I'll eat the tax, and toss in that stone".
Quality for monies spent, not to mention one cannot put a value on a grandkid...
Dang kid's feet were not touching the floor and his head almost hit the top of door exiting the store.

I can go places now, and Glock and Benchmade is the deal, another place is HK and Emerson, another is Sigs and Kabar ( Doziers).

One lady almost got fired for having a Glock 26 and Griptillian.
She had just changed jobs...
She had 30 days to get with the program...

They heard what she said about the minivan, still it would be better for the company if she had SUV.

She told them where to stick it and went self employed.

[sadlsor]

Wow, sm... thanks for that answer!

ummmm.... now, what was the question, again? :confused:

Oh yeah:
Can anyone recommend a comparable folder for a comparable price in D2 steel? I am having a bit of trouble finding one. :)

If I contributed to going OT, well... I guess I did. But here, as everywhere else on Interstate A. Gore, and in Anytown, USA for that matter, some folks just have an opinion that is not subject to change. Admittedly, in some areas I'm purty dang stubborn, too. (No need to ask my wife, I just confessed.)

But after hardly a week of posting around here (and a couple of just lurking), I'll give a tip of the ballcap, a smile and a friendly wave to the forum moderators AND to all of y'all keyboard conversationalists for keeping it real around here, and mostly G-rated. Heck - my ole flame suit is starting to get dusty! :neener:

But doesn't this really line up with where we as pro-gunners and right-to-carry advocates see ourselves? To wit: an armed society is a POLITE society.

Hey - I still like Cold Steel. :p

[Valkman]

One lady almost got fired for having a Glock 26 and Griptillian.


Good! 1911 and Strider is the way to go! LOL

[sm]

Can anyone recommend a comparable folder for a comparable price in D2 steel? I am having a bit of trouble finding one

Not me.

The Tourist, Valkman, hso or someone else might be able to assist.

[The Tourist]

(SM, you made your point when you began your treatise with "back in the day." My first Harley cost a little over two grand. This year the modifications on my bike cost five grand. It's a different world. But as I have said, I've trained to be the best. I want to be paid. If some collector brags that he has a "Tourist Edge," that's a statement he makes to the world. I suffer from "sticker shock" myself.)

Can anyone recommend a comparable folder for a comparable price in D2 steel? I am having a bit of trouble finding one.

Check out Knives of Alaska. They use a lot of D2, and they just began making folders.

[hso]

TT,

He might be able to find a KOA Denali in D2 in his price range, but I got the impression he didn't like hole openers.

(out of price range sidetrack - The new friction forged D2 from KOA's sister company DiamondBlade (http://www.diamondbladeknives.com/frictionForging.aspx) is supposed to be amazing stuff. Only time will tell if it's amazing enough. I'd like to see what a folder of it would do.)

[The Tourist]

He might be able to find a KOA Denali in D2 in his price range

Hmmm, you might be right. But a singular feature should not disuade a guy from buying a great knife. I'm amazed every day at some of the fantastic things KOA has done to bring quality to the brand.

I love their little Bear Cub. Having said that, I'm not a big fan of "gut hooks," and some appear in the pictures of their folders. But it's a great knife.

I wasn't a big fan of The Wave on my Emersons. Either I couldn't always "flip it," or the thing was coming half-open at the wrong times.

As usual, the problem was "me." After I learned about the knife, the problem went away and The Wave has become a useful feature.

If you like D2 (and I do) there has to be something in the KOA line that fits your needs. Heck, even Microtechs were made for a short while in D2, and probably can be found on the secondary market.

I must admit, I get to play with them all.:D

[JShirley]

I'm only a big fan of the Wave when coupled with a Speed Dialer sheath (http://www.mnsi.net/~nbtnoel/speeddialers.htm), and mounted to IBA. I think that provides about an optimum combination of size, retention, strength and access speed for deployed combat troops.

[alaskanativeson]

But a singular feature should not disuade a guy from buying a great knife.

I'd disagree with that to a small degree. I think you have to weigh how much that one feature means. If you're in a place where it's illegal to have a knife with a blade over 3.5 inches, a 4 inch blade could dissuade me from getting it. I can't stand the feel of G10 handles, if I could get a Sebenza with a thumbhole opener (my ideal pocketknife) but I had to have G10 handles on it I'd pass. I've heard several others here talk about how good Striders are, I refuse to buy because of his falsification of his military record. I know others don't agree with all of my opinions, I wouldn't ask any of you to. I just think that it's understandable to NOT buy for one reason, if that one reason is strong enough for you personally.

[JShirley]

I saw an absolutely awesome spear Mick made a few years ago, but I think his knives are ugly and there are too many knife guys I respect to buy his stuff...

[The Tourist]

Mick...I think his knives are ugly

So do I. In many ways, some of the ugliest and poorly finished knives I own.

The problem is, when a buyer is in the market for this type of tool, should esthetics be part of the equation? For example, are most AK-47 style rifles finished as nicely as a Weatherby? Of course not.

When I buy a Strider I'm looking for strength and utility. If I want beauty and polish in a knife I buy an early Microtech or a Woodard.

[Dr. Tad Hussein Winslow]

My medium-large folders, when I'm in the mood, are the (a) Kershaw "Spec Bump" S30V, (b) the CRKT "Desert Cruiser", (c) Gerber "Gator 2" (hunting only), and (d) the Gerber "Applegate-Fairbairn Combat" folder.

My medium folders are (a) the Kershaw "Avalanche" S30V, (b) Imperial/Schrade "Oldtimer 70T Cavebear", and (c) Kershaw "Needs Work" Sandvik 13C26.

My small folders are (a) Kershaw "Leek" S30V, (b) Outdoor Edge / Seki "Pocket Lite", (c) Gerber "Applegate-Fairbairn Mini Covert", and (d) another Kershaw "Leek" with 440A.

The most common carry are all Kershaws: Spec Bump, Leek, and Avalanche.

Spyderco should sue Benchmade for that one version of the mini-Griptilian where they are clearly leeching off of Spyderco's distinctive blade geometry with the big hole.

[SUPERMAN .45]

My EDC knife is an Emerson CQC 13 on my right pocket and Emerson Combat Karambit on my left pocket. My neck knife is a cold steel push dagger knife.

[The Tourist]

Superman .45, clearly you have considered defense an important issue for knives.

While I love everything Ernie makes, because of his personal Q/C, I look at the CQC-13 as having too much of an upturned snoot, ala James Keating and the Chinook.

If you get a chance, try some slicing with a knife that has smoother cutting geometry--that is, the expanse of the curvature of the belly is one smooth arch, like it was laid out by a compass.

Even in my personal life I'm finding I cut more in the kitchen with santukos and gyuots of more modest length.

Today my EDC pocketknife will be a Spyderco Native in S30V. It is a test mule for a fellow forum member who experienced some chips in his personal knife. I must admit, before I repaired mine, it had some very uneven grind lines.

[ScottyT]

When I have my usual belt load on I carry the Buck X-Tract Multi-Tool. Everything on it can be opened, used and closed using only one hand, I use it daily and love it!
http://www.buckknives.com/index.cfm?event=product.detail&productID=2931


My "dress" knife that I wear in more formal situations (like when I have to wear a suit) is the Buck Nobleman, very good looking:
http://www.buckknives.com/index.cfm?event=product.detail&productID=3125



I may or may not have connections at Buck, and I may or may not have gotten these two wonderful knives for free :neener:

[The Tourist]

I may or may not have connections at Buck, and I may or may not have gotten these two wonderful knives for free.

I may or may not be German, however my cousin Alan may or may not be driven in a black stretch and doesn't speak German. :neener:

Seriously, you don't have to apologize for Buck. They have taken on Paul Bos for HT, and possibly some design issues (I don't know for a fact), but I think the Q/C is up over the last three years.

Bass Pro Shop got a run of the Buck 110s made in 154-CM, and I wish that Buck would offer such choices to the public at large. I did buy a knife from Buck's custom knife shop in BG-42, and the knife was extremely well made and finished.

[hso]

TT,

Looks like I'm headed back to the land of sand in July/August so I should be able to send my Sebe to you for your loving care (heck, why wait? It's not like I don't have other knives to carry.)

[The Tourist]

HSO,

Deployed soldiers/Marines are not charged for services. Contact me PM and I'll get it back to you as a top priority.

[Maia007]

Everyday: Benchmade Osborne axis lock in 154 CM, 3" blade.

For the field: Morseth, in laminated steel, 5" blade.

[gripper]

EDC?? Cold Steel Spike. For a skinny man, I am good at making steel do a disappearing act.