spyderco paramilitary 2 or emerson CQC 15 mini

[skinner2008]

I am looking for a knife for EDC I will use it some to cut rope, open boxes things like that but I am really wanting it to carry as a backup to my concealed carry gun for personal protection. I have read that both these knifes are good but which one is the better of the two. thanks

[Franciscomv]

I'd go with the Paramilitary. The steel is better, lock is stronger (although Emerson's linerlock is plenty strong) and the price is considerably lower. I also prefer Spyderco's flat ground blades to Emerson's chisel ground blades for utility tasks (even Emerson's V ground knives have chisel edges).

For self defence use, the Mini CQC-15 has the advantage of the wave.

Don't get me wrong, I like Emersons (in spite of those sodding chisel edges) but I think the Para 2 gives you more for the money.

[Sonnydaze]

You can get a nice Para2 for a hair over a hundred. Do that. My opinion.
Sonny

[viper89]

I would also suggest the paramilitary 2. It is such a smooth knife, and they aren't too expensive.

[syntaxerrorsix]

The Para is a better knife for your intended cutting tasks and the Emerson will be better suited to your defensive needs. Having owned several of both and as an armed citizen I find the Para to win out due to it's utilitarian nature.

[kawr]

I've come to love Emersons, however, I do not think they are worth the money. You are paying a premium for their outstanding warranty and their reputation among the armed forces. If this is ok with you I would say go with the Emerson. If you just want the knife that is objectively better in all regards than go with the Para2. Keep in mind that a Para 2 can also be waved out of your pocket with a ziptie on the spyder hole if you are concerned with tacticool applications. I kept my Emerson Horseman and sold multiple Para 2s off but I dont think the Emerson is the better knife. I just like it better.

[michaelm466]

I really like some Emerson's designs/ergonomics, but the I agree with the above posters, the Para 2 compared to most Emerson's you're getting better steel, stronger/easier to use lock, better cutting/edge geometry, better fit and finish and as good (IMO) ergonomics for half the price.

[6leafdom]

para 2 excel in cutting tasks because of the ffg. emerson is more heavy duty and can take more abuse.

[jkwithawave]

Since primarily you want it as a backup to your pistol, I'd say get the mini 15. I'm right handed and wear mine in my back left pocket. it waves out perfectly in a reverse grip from there. I would also suggest maybe a Spyderco Dragonfly as a small slicing knife to go with it.