Recommend an EDC like a Delica?

[chrisb507]

I know this topic has been done to death, but I would love some suggestions on my next EDC. I've looked all over, and nothing is really exciting enough to spend up to $125 or so on. I'd use it pretty lightly, opening packages and cutting the "everyday" things that need to be cut...it doesn't have to lock.

My ideal knife is:

• Around 3", ideally 3" or less
• Ideally a one-handed opener
• Relatively thin and fairly light
• Decent steel

My current EDCs include a Delica, a small Sebenza, a Kershaw Vapor and a Scallion. I'm looking for something like a Delica...what do ya'll like in that ballpark?

 

[Searcher1970]

Check out the Kershaw Skyline. I carry one everyday. http://www.thekershawstore.com/Kershaw_Skyline_TFK_Plain_Knife_p/k1760.htm

 

[hso]

You have a Sebenza and you're looking for something like a Delica, but you already have a Delica?

I'd say you have the two ends of the spectrum covered already.

Help me understand what you're looking for? Do you prefer the thumb hole to a thumb stud? Are you looking for something very flat and very light weight? Are you looking for an assisted opener over a manual or perhaps an auto? Dress, tactical or techno?

As to not having to lock, I can't recommend anything that doesn't lock (all respect to the slip joint fans).

 

[chrisb507]

Ah, sorry I wasn't quite clear. The Delica is my current favorite folder, but I'm looking for a little variety in my next purchase...so, yes, something like a Delica, but not a Delica. I'm open to other folders that might be similar.

I'm not looking for an assisted opener or an auto. Dress/tactical, I suppose, would be the style. Black or tacti-cool is not a requirement. I'd like something lightweight-ish, though flat is not a requirement. (Everyday carry would be in a dress pants pocket.)

I like the hole, but a Delica and Native are my only Spydercos, so I'm not stuck on a brand--or on opening style.

The Kershaw Skyline is one I've never seen/considered...thanks, Searcher.

 

[skwab]

I just picked up a kershaw Needs Work with the G10 handle. It's a great blade, and it looks a little funky but the ergos are actually pretty nice.

 

[Storm]

I wish my Needs Work had a G-10 handle.

If you could go just a hair over 3 inches to 3 1/8" I would very strongly recommend that you consider the Kershaw R.A.M.. I'ts one heck of a knife and is as flat as a pancake. It opens with a flipper (not spring assisted) and is extremely fast. Below is my black coated smooth edge. I have ordered a second one with partial serrations.

 

[hmphargh]

Maybe you'd like an Al Mar Hawk? The Ultralight models are a little more tacticool IMO, but all of them are very nice knives.

 

[hso]

If you would jump up in price there are a couple of Spydercos using the Sebe type frame lock. They also happen to be a bit dressier.

Of course, you could just send your Sebenza in to Chris and have them customize it.

 

[Omaha-BeenGlockin]

Benchmade Mini Grip----or if you want to spend a bit more a 525.

 

[chrisb507]

Great suggestions, thanks all! Several options and knives I hadn't considered...

 

[The Highlander]

Benchmade Osborne 940. Depending on where you look you can get it for close to $100. Wicked blade.

 

[atomd]

I think you already have some of the best out there. I mean, the Sebenza is like the holy grail of EDC pocket knives. I really like the Delica too.

I guess for variety I'd get one of the Benchmade models with the axis lock. I really like the axis. It does tend to get some crap like pocket lint and stuff stuck in it sometimes though. My mini grip has taken a beating (including saltwater/rust type of abuse) and the lock is still fine. I'd go for the 940 if you want to spend the money though. Fantastic knife.

 

[Madcap_Magician]

What's wrong with what you've already got?

 

[Storm]

BTW, as much as I like the Kershaw RAM the EDC that ends up in my pocket the most is my Benchmade 550 Special Edition. It has a feel that is really hard to beat and carries so well. I really have no idea why I am drawn to it a lot more than most other knives. I also have no idea why this knife is a special edition (143 of 200).

 

[skwab]

Yeah Storm - my EDC is a RAM - it's a great knife - I'll need to check out that benchmade since our tastes seem to be pretty similar.

 

[chrisb507]

What's wrong with what you've already got?

I like what I have, but no one knife is quite perfect for me. I want a small piece of cool, sharp, functional art to carry around. I know the “perfect” knife likely isn’t out there, but it’s fun to keep looking.

I’m also looking for a good value at my price point (which would exclude almost all of the custom stuff out there). Value is one place I think the Sebenza falls short. I’m glad I have it, and I appreciate it, but—to me and the way I use a folder—it doesn’t seem worth the price. While it’s smooth and solid, it’s not $300 smoother or more solid than the cheaper knives I have. I know it’s a got great materials and a solid design—and someone who uses it or appreciates it differently might think it’s an incredible value. I don’t have the same opinion.

Based on the suggestions here, I’m now leaning toward one of the dressier Spydercos (maybe a Kopa) or a mini-Grip or similar Benchmade. I'd like to give the Axis lock a try.