Print

Please login or register.
1 Hour 1 Day 1 Week 1 Month Forever
Login with username, password and session length

[seldomseen]

  I did a search and couldn't find this exact topic discussed before, if it has been than I apologize. I've been searching for years for a tactical folder that meets my requirements, but have been unable to find it.

Here it goes...

Must be under $100.00 U.S. dollars
Lightweight ( I have a Cold Steel AK 47 that's like carrying a gun it's so heavy )
Clip must be able to be moved for different pocket carries
One handed operation (many claim this, but are not)
Quality blade (easily sharpened)
Partially serrated
Durable
Relatively slim (doesn't catch on everything that you brush up against)

I appreciate all opinions.

Jason

[Hock]

There is a whole section in my new book on this...
http://www.hockscqc.com/shop/product391.html

* The clip on the knife must be screw-able into all four corners - which is the more precise way of saying "changing pocket carries." (knife makers can be dense and need this really explained. Also, the military and police often clip their knifes all over their vests and gear, not just pockets.

* The knife must be used as a fighting palm stick when closed, when the person cannot open it under rush and stress. The ends should be exposed on the top and bottom of the hand and the closed blade must be seated into the handle in such a way that it does not hurt your hand when you punch with it. (also a whole section in my book)

* The handle must be of a maximixed texture! To over come blood, sweat and whatever other slippery liquids one encounters. Most folders do not have this texture.

[Benjamin Liu]

Going by your criteria, I'd suggest a Spyderco Endura.  You can get them with a Wave as well.

Going further, I'd suggest that rather than getting partially serrated, to get one serrated and one plain, and set the clips up so you have one for each side.  IMO serrated knives are more for utility than fighting, so the serrated one will probably get a lot of use.

From my experience, the Spyderco opening hole is the most reliable method of opening a knife.  Waves are nice but not necessary.

[Hepcat]

I would also recommend the Spyderco Waved Endura.  I picked up one with a trainer version as well for $115.00 CDN Dollars.  I carry two and the clip is adjustable to all four corners.

[seldomseen]

   Thanks, I will def check that Spyderco out.  My problem is I've bought most of mine off of the internet coz we don't have many knife stores around here (southern Colorado). I bought a Boker a few years back that advertised " quick one handed operation." It showed a picture of a button on the side that appeared to be a "quick release", almost automatic operation.

It actually is a "safety" that has to be depressed before the blade will even release. So, it's a two handed deal. I thought maybe the blade just needed to be worked and eventually it would be able to be flicked open with one hand, but, that isn't the case.

I've got some Cold Steel's, but they are heavy. I've actually had some luck with some cheapos, but eventually they fall apart.

Anyone like any of Kershaw's model's?

Jason

[Wizard]

I have the Spyderco Delica wave, love it.  Not the best for using as a kuboton/striker.  However, the Endura's blade is longer than street legal to carry in MI, so it's a no-go for me.  Very easy one-handed opening, both with the hole and the wave that catches on the pant as you pull the knife out--does the work for you, it's open once it's out.

MH

[Hepcat]

Had a Ken Onion Leek, fast opening, nice knife.  Too smooth handle wise for me and a brittle tip I snapped off in training.

[seldomseen]

    Hepcat,

    Yeah, I had a CRKT knife blade tip snap on me with just some moderate pressure. Thanks for the input, guys.

    Jason

[Wizard]

By the way, the Delica Wave's blade is like 2 15/16, keeping it under the typical 3 inch legal limit.  I also like that there's an identical trainer, so once gets used to deployment and use in practice, under pressure.

Of course, Hock's preference for that big, double edged blade is preferred.  But who can carry that to work? 

[Hock]

"Of course, Hock's preference for that big, double edged blade is preferred."

You can't carry it! Its iliegal almost everywhere. Because it is so good. But, You might find some that are...ALMOST...double-edged.

Hock

[Kaliman33]

I love the Cold Steel Voyagers, perfer the large or extra large. the recon is awesome to. If you have not seen the spartan it is a bad knife and fits surprisingly well in your pocket. The new locks on the cold steel knife hold over 600 pounds, and they did for over a week. The blades stay sharp, and can pierce a car door. In my opinon Cold Steel is the best and the only knives i carry

Marc Halleck

[seldomseen]

    Marc,

    I do like Cold Steel products. I have the AK-47 and a neck knife. I checked out (online) that Spartan model you suggested, I hadn't seen that one before, that might be a little easier to carry than the AK-47 for sure.

    Thanks,
    Jason

[metz57]

The Benchmade Griptilian 550hg is worth considering. Little wider than the endura but the blade is superb. Pocket clip can be moved to either side but you are limited to a tip up carry. Has a jury friendly name, fills the hand really well and you can get a trainer if you want to go that way. Also has one of the best locks on the market and is comfortable in the hand when closed. If you like the wave feature a zip tie through the hole does the job. 

http://www.benchmade.com/products/550HG

[seldomseen]

     Yeah, I'm likin that Benchmade at 3.2 oz. Nice and lite.

      Jason

[Kelly Knight]

I'd like to throw my hat in with the Spyderco sub-brand, Byrd.

I have a Meadowlark model (all black) that I've used as an ice pick, screwdriver, box opener, to whittle with, hammer nails into the wall and other completely abusive uses. I even cut my dog out of a seatbelt when she got twisted up in. The belt cut like butter.

It still looks brand new, too. Paid under 20 bucks for it about 7 or 8 years ago, I think. It doesn't have the 4-way pocket clip, but there are plenty of Byrd models that do, like the Cara Cara. I don't like the FRN on the Cara Cara as much as I like G-10, but it's still pretty snappy.

Dang it. Now I've got to get one!

Nearly 90% of the people in the Japanese sword club that I train with own and carry Leeks, though. They are a marvelously lovely knife. A little too expensive for me, though.

Kelly Knight