[savage22]

Hello Everyone. I am looking to buy a new pocket knife, one that I can carry everywhere with me and has a clip on it so i can clip onto my belt or the inside of my pocket. Obviously because of this I want a knife with a folding blade. But I do not know much about knives. I have to talked to a couple of people about what knife to buy, and I never get a specific model but what I do keep hearing is buy something made by Gerber, or Shrade, or Kershaw, or Old Timer. I would prefer to keep the price around $50 or less. I am very curious on what everyone on here has to say and I am thankful for any help offered! So...does anyone have any suggestions or advice??

[Apac84]

I have this Buck knife and love it

http://www.knifecenter.com/item/BU750BKX/buck-knives-redpoint-
Sent from my SCH-I500

[Jason_G]

I haven't bought any of the ones you mention in a really long time except Gerber, so I can't say for sure what the quality is like these days. In the production knife world, some brands have moved to China, some have come back, some have gone up in quality, and many have gone down, and I haven't been keeping track.

My opinion on Gerber:
I used to like Gerber as a cheap "lose it, oh well, get another" type knife, mostly when I was doing construction, and didn't want to ruin or lose my nicer knives. They were decent quality, for the price anyway, but the most recent ones I bought, I'd say early 2000's vintage, were crap. One was an EZ Out that wouldn't hold an edge. Then I broke the first quarter of the blade off of a Gerber Gator just trying to lift a staple out of a 2x4. Not a heavy duty staple either, I'm talking about the ones that hold the little plastic tags on the ends of PT lumber. I know a knife is not a pry bar, but come on, a staple? And that's a fairly thick blade. I won't buy another.

To be honest, I've quit construction, so I don't have to worry about being so hard on my knives anymore, so I carry a Benchmade Mini-Griptillian most of the time. It's been a great folder. The Axis lock is very quick to open and close one handed, and the steel is good. More expensive than what you are looking at, but I'll put it this way: if I lost this one, I wouldn't replace it with anything other than another Benchmade.

Jason

[NMBrian]

I have this Buck knife and love it

http://www.knifecenter.com/item/BU75...ives-redpoint-
Sent from my SCH-I500

+1 for the buck knife.

I got one last year as a stocking stuffer. Its a great little knife, I think you can get them at walmart or big 5.

[klutchless]

As much as I hate his show I just got a Bear gryles folder at waly world and it seems to be a decent knife so far.Forgot about the kershaw leek was my edc till i lost it wading for turtles.

[Apac84]

As much as I hate his show I just got a Bear gryles folder at waly world and it seems to be a decent knife so far.

I've been wondering how good his brand of Gerbers was.

Sent from my SCH-I500

[zoom6zoom]

Kershaw Leek (http://www.amazon.com/Kershaw-Onion-Folding-Knife-Speed/dp/B0009VC9Y0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1313016717&sr=8-1) is the one I carry daily. Very slim and easy to carry in a pair of dress slacks or jeans. Holds an edge extremely well.

[klutchless]

Never mind the bear junk like his show a total fake just broke the blade cutting a switch what a piece of junk.Go with the kershaw leek.Mine will be here in a week thank you ebay I guess the old case xx will have to come out of retirement.

[hso]

The people telling you to buy Schrade/Old Timer are several years out of date as the company went out of business and the name was sold.

Buck, Spyderco, CRKT, Kershaw, Benchmade, .KaBar..

Get a Griptilian from Benchmade or a Tenacious from Spyderco or a Leek from Kershaw or a Dozier from KaBar...

[Jaredoutdoors]

I have a Kershaw Onion,centofante that I carry daily. It is assisted opening holds an edge for ever and you can actually shave with it right out of the box. It also has a safety lock to keep it from opening on its own. I have a number of knives and this is my favorite pocket knife.

[moxie]

Here's a good choice:
http://www.knifesupply.com/eshop/10Expand.asp?ProductCode=BY03GP2

And another: http://www.knifesupply.com/eshop/10browse.asp?category=kershaw zing knives&ReturnTo=http://www.knifesupply.com/kershaw_knives.html

One more: http://www.knifesupply.com/eshop/10Expand.asp?ProductCode=KS1725BLK

[ArfinGreebly]

Hi, my name is Arfin, and I'll be your Buck Knives fanboi this evening.

:D


Have a look at the Buck Vantage (the large one). Available in three configurations, the Select, Avid, and Pro, it will fit pretty much any wallet.

The Select is done in 420HC steel, with handles of FRN or PaperStone. I have both kinds, and actually prefer FRN, even though the PaperStone is lighter and more grippy.

The Avid is done in Sandvik 13c26 steel, with handles of Dymondwood, which is a satisfyingly warm and smooth material which won't tear up your trousers.

The Pro is done in S30V steel (really hard stuff), with handles of G-10, which is really grippy, but which is also hard on fabric unless you coat the surface on the clip side with something like nail polish to smooth it out a little.

I have the Select in FRN & PaperStone, as well as the Avid. I prefer the Avid, as the steel is one that I'm familiar with and I know exactly what I can expect from it, and the handle is easy on my clothes.


Now, if you suddenly have an attack of the I-don't-care-what-it-costs, I can also recommend the Buck Paradigm. The Paradigm is basically an assisted open version of the Vantage. It's the same size, and the blades are essentially the same. Thing is, now you're looking at $100 for the Avid version (the one I have), so this might price it out of your selection. Excellent knife, though. Very "energetic" when it opens, so I will often use my other hand to ease it open when I'm around other folks. No need to alarm people.



Oh, as long as we're mentioning assisted openers, you might also have a look at the Kershaw Packrat. Splendid knife with a well designed handle and a blade shape that's good for all kinds of stuff.

Also done in Sandvik steel (14c28n), and available in orange or black.

Mine is orange. I like it a lot.

All of the above mentioned knives are in my EDC (everyday carry) rotation.

Hope this is of some use to you.

[jef2015]

+1 on the kershaw leek for edc. It's fits nicely in a pocket, opens very fast, takes a nice edge and is made in the USA. The only downside for me is the blade doesn't compare to s30v, but I don't think you'll get s30v for less than $70. Also can be slippery when wet. Last time I looked the Leek was around $30 on amazon.

[JTW Jr.]

Best under $100 folder , Benchmade Griptillian , blade of 154cm , which I like better than S30v.

I did like the Buck folders, until I handle them at this years SHOT Show , their entire line of folders , other than the Buck/Mayos left me cold.

[Strykervet]

I have a Gerber Applegate/Fairbairn, the tiny one. I like that it has half serrated and a nice sharp point. Useful for all kinds of stuff. I've been using it since '06 and I love it, I use it for everything. I wasn't necessarily looking for one of these, but I lost my Cold Steel, and this was cheap at a gun show. Ended up being better (more useful) than the superior Cold Steel that I lost. I prefer the Cold Steel blades to the Gerber, they hold the edge better, but the Gerber is fine if you stay on top of it. It takes awhile to get the angle on it where it will hold an edge though, I think the Cold Steel is better out of the box.

[sigarms228]

The Benchmade Mini Griptilian is close to your price range and an outstanding knife. I have the Benchmade 556 variation. I recently purchased it for $60 plus shipping. I really like Benchmade Axis Lock. There are a ton of good knives in your price range but this is my favorite but you really need to find a store that sells a nice variety of knives to see and hold and to try clipping to your pocket if they will let you. With my Benchmades I can reach into my jeans pocket to retrive keys, phone, change, etc without having to take my knife out first which is important for me. I am sure that probably would not be the case with a Spyderco for instace because of their extra width though they are great knives.

Others to consider for a little to lot less would include Kershaw Blur, Kershaw Skyline, Kershaw OSO Sweet, Kershaw Leek, Spyderco Tenacious, Spyderco Delica4, and Ontario RAT-1 among the other great suggestions already given. I know Buck makes some great knives too but I am not that familiar with their product line. The Leatherman Expanse e33L looks very promising also though I never held one and for around $32 it comes with 154CM blade steel. Anyone else have thoughts on the Leatherman Expanse e33L ??

If you go to you tube and search for any of the above you will find several knife reviews and be able to see most in action.

Benchmade 556 Mini Griptilian is the top one in my picture of my small collection, has a blade length of 2.91", folded length of 3.87", and 154CM blade steel. It comes with handles in different colors including yellow and blue. Some handle color other than black could be less intimidating to others nearby when using your knife if that is a concern such as in certain work environments while something like a Zero Tolerance 0200 with its very tactical look could very well intimidate others - just something to think about.

http://i669.photobucket.com/albums/vv60/kk9zz/BM2.jpg

[Owen Sparks]

Look at the Kershaw Blur assisted opening knife at Wall-Mart. It is FAST because for all intents and purposes a legal switchblade with a great grip and just the right size to carry daily. It also has a very sharp point for stabbing and a serrated section on the blade that can save your life. You can even reverse ends with the pocket clip if you like.
I just don't think that they make a better knife for the money.

If money is not an option look into an Emerson. I carry the model 11.

[heron]

My EDC knife is a Kershaw Scallion, half-serrated. I'm thinking of getting another with plain edge, because the transition point of the serrations tends to snag when cutting some things. Other than that, I like it a lot. I prefer a shorter blade.
I also have a Leek in all-stainless, but I didn't like the way it slips around in my hand. I put some texture on it with an engraver and a Dremel, and it now rides as emergency backup in my motor-scooter, wrapped up in a couple of handkerchiefs with a disposable lighter.
Both are very nice, made in USA, both less than $50 from the Kershaw Store online. Solid, precise, and sharp.

[22-rimfire]

Walmart sells the Kershaw Leek. That is the one I would choose. There are lots of choices as you well know. You didn't mention size, but the Leek is a nice comfortable pocket knife. Just about any of the Spyderco line are good. For something more traditional, the Spyderco Native. The Delica and Endura are very popular depending on the size you are looking for.

[JohnnyOrygun]

Cant go wrong with Benchmade, I absolutely love their knives. I have two griptillians, a plain edge and a half plain/half serrated. They are great knives. I need to get a mini-grip. The 154 steel is great stuff, takes a wicked edge and holds it, plus most Benchmade knives are made in the U.S., Oregon to be exact and they stand behind their products. Plus they offer free sharpening, you only have to pay for the shipping, $5. Kershaw knives are good too, I have a chive I carry on Sundays when going to church and sometimes when I just feel like it.

Good luck, part of the fun of knives is you buy one and then you see another one that attracts your attention and you end up buying it, pretty soon you have a whole drawer full of knives. Although, it does drive my wife a little nuts.

Have fun.
John

[Zeke/PA]

I am in love with the Opinel stuff so much so that if I were you I would purchase an Opinel,then attach a clip/sheath of some kind.
I use my Opinels daily in my Gardening/Orchard chores and I love 'em.
The price of the Opinels are reasonable, and the Carbon Steel versions are REALLY all the "knife" anyone needs.
However, to each his own !!

[sm]

Hi, my name is Arfin, and I'll be your Buck Knives fanboi this evening. *snort-grin*

Mine is orange. I like it a lot. *figgers*

Get a Griptilian from Benchmade or a Tenacious from Spyderco or a Leek from Kershaw or a Dozier from KaBar...
Agree, though I am partial to the Dozier...

Actually the best idea is to actually handle some, and find one that fits you. Whups, that makes sense. Can't have that...nope, not at all...

Just wipe out your savings and run up your credit cards, and "buy the whole set".

Now you "really" know why some spend so much time in Non-Firearms.

"Hey! I ain't gots that one yet!"

Soundtrack: Born to be Wild- Steppenwolf.


*grin*

[savage22]

Hey Everyone! Thanks for the advice. I am looking into everyone knife that you guys have mentioned so far. I have been looking at the Benchmade knives and for whatever reason the Benchmade Griptillian Sheepsfoot knife, http://www.knifesupply.com/eshop/10Expand.asp?ProductCode=BM550SBKHG, and the Griptillian 551 knife, http://www.benchmade.com/products/551, seems to be sticking with me. Does anyone here have these knives and input about them? Also, as I mentioned I am new to knives and do not know a lot, what is the difference between a regular Griptillian and a Griptillian Sheepsfoot-is it just the name??

Also, what is easier to open, a knife with a thumbhole in the blade or a knife with thumb studs on it?

As for size, I just wanted something that is small enough to fit in a pocket, somehere between 2 to 5 inches. Please keep the suggestions coming, it can't hurt to have too many opinions!!

Thanks!!

[hso]

Look at the shapes of the blades. The sheepsfoot blade shape has a straight edge and a curved spine.

[Steel Talon]

Get a traditional folding pocket knife Such as a "Stockman" model three blade. I carry a Buck. But, Case, Boker and others also offer Stockman models. They ared sturdy knives that are meant to work. No pocket clip ,but pocket carry. You can alsways have a leather . belt carrier made for it. Pretty simple and straight forward.

Here's a Buck 301 a model I carry. http://searchforlinks.com/aimg/41f47jaxT7L.jpg

[JohnnyOrygun]

I have the Benchmade 551 with the plain edge and it is my absolute favorite EDC knife. It is well made and I highly recommend it, you can't go wrong with BM 551. Good luck!

[sigarms228]

Hey Everyone! Thanks for the advice. I am looking into everyone knife that you guys have mentioned so far. I have been looking at the Benchmade knives and for whatever reason the Benchmade Griptillian Sheepsfoot knife, http://www.knifesupply.com/eshop/10Expand.asp?ProductCode=BM550SBKHG, and the Griptillian 551 knife, http://www.benchmade.com/products/551, seems to be sticking with me. Does anyone here have these knives and input about them? Also, as I mentioned I am new to knives and do not know a lot, what is the difference between a regular Griptillian and a Griptillian Sheepsfoot-is it just the name??

Also, what is easier to open, a knife with a thumbhole in the blade or a knife with thumb studs on it?

As for size, I just wanted something that is small enough to fit in a pocket, somehere between 2 to 5 inches. Please keep the suggestions coming, it can't hurt to have too many opinions!!

Thanks!!

I have the BM 556 - Mini Griptilan and love it.

At the price you can get the BM551 for right now I would say GO FOR IT. Benchmade quality, Axis lock, and 154CM steel for that price!!

I prefer the plain edge myself.

Check out getting it at the link below and put in the promo code BR549 to see the very nice price. They also have very fast shipping.

http://www.knifeworks.com/benchmadegriptilianmodifieddroppointplainedge.aspx

[Duble Naught Spy]

Being a lefty I only carry either of two clippies. One is a Kershaw Chill inverted or a Spyderco Tenacious. Both are 8cr13mov.

I like the 8cr13mov since its a good edge, not subject to chipping, and not hard to sharpen.
I also always carry a slipjoint in the other pocket. Can't carry too many knives. ;)

[JohnnyOrygun]

You asked about thumb hole versus thumb stud, with BM's axis lock, it doesn't matter. You will soon learn to open it with a flick of your wrist. Pull back on the axis lock and give the knife a little flip and its open. Almost as fast a switchblade, I almost never use the thumb stud on my 551 or the thumb hole on the 550 (I think that's the right number)
The 154CM blade material will take a scary edge and hold it.

I have a Spyderco Delica, CRKT Laredo, I have a couple of Cold Steels, 3 or 4 Cases, 3 or 4 Bucks, several Swiss Army knives, a Leatherman Knife and several LM tools and of all, Benchmade is my favorite. BM seems to offer an excellent blend of quality construction, quality materials, and good prices.

Good Luck with your choice and whatever you choose, I am sure more will follow... knives seems to get lonely and pretty soon you have to buy another one to keep the others company :P
John

[DaisyCutter]

I bought a $7.99 Chinese "Remington" knife at Big 5 today. Allegedly, it was marked down from $30, but we all know that price is inflated.

It'll be my primary do-all knife on patrol as a Deputy Sheriff until I lose it or break it. The previous one lasted 1.5 years, and last Tuesday night I left it lying on top of the Redbox dispenser. I never even went back for it. I'd be pissed at myself if I lost a $50 knife.

The new one is black with a 3" blade, thin and light, so it can ride clipped inside in my cargo pocket and not cause discomfort.

It's not a Benchmade, but it's reasonaby well built.

I also carry a CRKT Kiss in my boot, a Leatherman multitool on my belt, and a Kabar TDI.

The CRKT and TDI are a PITA to re-holster, and the Leatherman is a PITA to deploy. So I'll use the cheapo as my primary.


I use knives hard, and there are deals for far less than $50. Really examine the quality of what you're looking at, so you don't buy something dangerous to YOU. Does it lock positively? Are the scales going to flex or break under pressure? Does the blade have lateral play? I prefer cheaper knives. I don't mind sharpening them a bit more frequently, or taking them apart to clean out the lint and tweak the liner lock.

When I go to the lake, I'll clip the $8 knife in my waistband, so I'll have it in a pinch if needed, and never worry about the replacement cost if I drop it in the drink... or if some ham-handed buddy uses it to open a can of beans.

EDIT:

I'm a lefty.

I use a blade down wrist flip to open all folders.

I prefer liner locks, because for me they are easier to close one-handed.

[sixgunner455]

I would get a nice slipjoint folder, either an SAK or a good jackknife/stockman type, and then the larger single-blade lockblade. I really like my new Spyderco Tenacious, and my wife likes her Spyderco Native. The Kershaw Leek is really good, too.

The Griptilians are very popular, but I just don't get that excited about them.

Thumb studs can get in the way of actual cutting, depending on where they are placed on the blade. They have to give you a certain amount of mechanical advantage, so they can't be too close to the joint, so on some knives, they are out too far on the spine of the blade and when you are slicing with the knife, the stupid stud is right where it shouldn't be.

That is something I really appreciate about the Spyder Holes, especially on my Tenacious. The Tenacious and its siblings are flat ground, so slicing is really quite easy to do. Hollow ground blades may not slice as nicely.

Just some stuff I think about when I open the drawer and try to decide what knife/knives to carry for the day.

[Sheepdog1968]

I am a big fan of the Victorainox Swiss Army knives. For years I carried the Tinkerer model. Not that long ago, I upgraded to something a bit bigger from then because I wanted a saw blade on it. It's not a quick deploy knife but I've been very happy with the cost and quality. Many to choose from in the $30 to $60 range.

[sixgunner455]

And hey, what about the Ontario Rat folders? They're decent, and not expensive.

Just a thought.

[sm]

I like the way you think my friend.
*grin*

Sending best-
Steve

[sixgunner455]

Thanks, Steve. Howya doin'?