$299 or less knives

[sabre cat]

I knew I would get out voted. I picked Benchmade knowing that Spyderco would be ahead. Benchmade's Axis Lock is why I keep buying their products but, I did not see
much to get excited about in their 2017 line up.

 

[PURPLEDC]

of those specific brands spyderco. They have the most consistent quality with lots of options. Great useable knives.

 

[Viajames]

I believe under about the $150 mark, spyderco without a doubt, over the $150 mark up to the $300 ZT without a doubt. Hard to beat a 620 ZT if your an emmerson guy and they are close on the heels of Hinderer with his ZT line if your so inclined to save $2-$300, 19-3Ben said it first, but I believe BOTH Spyderco and ZT are punching above their weight so to say.

 

[FullMetalJackass]

None of the above.

Emerson.

 

[Wolverine666]

Although not on the list (but clearly mentioned here) , ZT seems to have made quite an impression in the sub-$300 category.

I don't like flippers at all. But the ones that I've tried were all ZT's. And their quality was great. The one ZT I have left is the 0550 and it's an awesome knife.

So I'm excited with the announcement of some of the new 2017 models like the 0850 and even the 0055 with its "hidden" trigger.

 

[evilgreg]

Spyderco, but only so I could buy a Southard. Probably Kizer otherwise.

 

[Yo Mama]

Also unfortunately in the none of the above group. Spyderco and Benchmade have gone crazy, CRKT doesn't make any offerings I like, and unless you really want a custom Buck you can get a decent knife from them much cheaper than 300 dollars.

My vote at that price point is Protech all the way. They are bringing designs that match their price point for what you get IMO. They also have non-auto versions if you are limited by laws in your area.

None of the above.

Emerson.

This is my second voting option!

 

[madcap_magician]

That's a tough one because my answer would vary at multiple price point splits under $299.

Right at the $299 level I'd say that Spyderco gets the nod for the Slysz Bowie specifically, but the Carey Magnitude would also fit.

Some other strong contenders between $250 and $300 would be ZT, the base model Reate knives, Lionsteel for the TRE, WE Knives, and Kizer.

I would exclude Emerson and most Benchmades, but that's a matter of taste. I feel Emerson and Benchmade are generally overpriced for what you get, and while Benchmade has some high-value, high-quality offerings, I don't see any at the just-under-$300 mark.

 

[bikerector]

None of the above.

Kizer.

Another for Kizer. I like spyderco for function but I feel kizer has better looks and good function, especially their bladesmith series. Benchmade is over-priced but I still like them and buy them but often searched for used so the price doesn't hurt so much.