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3 inch folder?

G

GGD

Joined
Sep 20, 2014
Messages
25
Hello, I am looking for a camping/outdoor folder with a blade of no more than 3 inches. I would like to get something of good quality, but not spend more than $85. I was looking at a Benchmade Mini Griptilian, but I am wondering what other options I have. Any suggestions?
 
Cold Steel's mini recon 1 is a great little blade (30-40 dollars I think--it's been a while); it's tough and fairly resistant to the elements, very easy to sharpen in the field, and if you damage while putting it through its paces, inexpensive enough that you will not feel bad. I have the clip point and have to say that it has impressed me.
 
Any size Griptillan works awesome for this mission. Whittles and makes shavings like a charm. Made hundreds of fires, snares, tent stakes, plus processed fish and game. The 154CM would be my choice. The Axis lock is perhaps one of the most rock solid locks on the market making it one of the top choices for this mission. Strong and solid.
 
Another vote for Cold Steel. Look at the Voyager model, usually pretty cheap. You could also get yourself a Mora if you needed a fixed blade and still be within budget. You could go super cheap and get a Mora and Opinel, or a Case knife. You really shouldn't have to spend $85 on a folding knife for your uses.
 
I'm Going with the mini grip at the high end of your price range but a cold steel recon 1 or mini recon 1 at half the price is one heck of a value.
 
I really like my Delica 4. A nice bonus for outdoors are the bright FRN scales. Mines orange even in lo light and heavy brush its pretty easy to find.
 
The mini-grip is a good blade for the size, but I find the handle a bit small due to the design.
For outdoorsy stuff I'd prefer a flat grind for lateral stiffness in carving, so go with the drop-point style blade rather than the sheepsfoot (which is hollow).

I like my new Kershaw Camber in S30V, but you'd have to drop the tip a bit to make the 3" limit (which I did). Bonus is you get premium steel for your budget. (and can de-assist if you don't like that feature)

I believe Buck has a Vantage model right in your size/price range, which would be a good bet.

A Vic farmer or camper is actually hard to beat too, but doesn't optimize for blade utility.

3" knives are awesome as long as they have enough handle to hang onto.
 
I recommend the Buck vantage. Super strong and user friendly. Lots of options.
 
Or a Buck 112. Sure it weighs a little more and you can't pocket clip it. But you won't loose it if it's on your belt and it is one heck of a good general purpose outdoor (or in) knife. I carried mine daily through my military tours.

Cheers, ED
 
That SAK farmer looks like a winner. A leatherman wouldn't be out of place either. You could even get a Leatherman and an opinel and still be within budget.
 
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