3" or less folder - Which one to buy?

Joined
Nov 30, 2000
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860
I'm looking to buy my next knife. I'd like to get a non-tactical looking knife for my pocket, to go along with my BM 710s. I would like it to be around 3" or less, and plain edged. I'd also like the blade not to be super tactical, as I'd like to be able to get this one out on a regular basis and not get a commentary from my family/friends/coworkers.
Unfortunatley, budget is an issue. I have only about $60 to spend, and would very preferably spend more like $40. Basically, I'm looking for an everyday carry to go alongside my 710, that is comfortable to use, and not too expensive.
So far, the one I've liked the most have been the Spyderco Michael Walker lightweight. I've looked at CRKT and others, but havent found what I'm looking for. The BM 350, BM 856, and BM 905 look ok, but are a little over budget (which could increase - it just means I'm going to have to wait for a while). Any other suggestions? Thanx!
-- Rob
 
Have you looked at a BM330? They seem to fit your constraints and are a very nice smaller knife IMHO. They are incredibly smooth to open/close and work nicer than most small blades. I wasn't fond of them due to the lack of a clip, but it doesn't sound like you require one on your blade, and they are supposed to introduce a 335 that is quite similar with a money clip. They have excellent lock up, ATS-34 steel, and the BM warranty to back them up too. The retail is $100. I sold one a while back on here for $60 shipped I believe, and I would imagine that you can find one at or below that if you keep your eyes open and post on the wanted list.

If I were you I would also look at a Spyderco Native. They are supposed to be an excellent knife, and come with a 440V blade. They are a lock back with an FRN handle, but for the price, I don't think you can beat it. Retail price of around $70 with and internet price of $40-45+shipping.

[This message has been edited by tique (edited 01-08-2001).]
 
I'd have to recommend the Spyderco Calypso, Jr. It's not "tactical looking" and it has a great VG-10 blade. My second choice would be the Spyderco Native.
 
I just ordered the Native. Now I'm playing the waiting game
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Seems to be very much knife for the money.

Seb
hey, this just was the first time I GAVE advice instead of asking for it... coool
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My second knife is often a sak.These alarm almost nobody,there cheap,and the screw drivers and other tools are very usefull! For example my friends wife is a public defender,and very liberal(anti-gun bigtime)I gave her a sak as one of their wedding presents,guess what she loves it and carries it!!
 
For $40 (maybe a little less), you can get the Spyderco Dragonfly with SS handles, and ATS-55 blade.
Mine usually accompanies my AFCK, 940, or 710, and that little thin, flat ground blade cuts all out of proportion with its size. It's purty too.

Fits in the watch pocket on jeans, btw.

[This message has been edited by OwenM (edited 01-08-2001).]
 
CRKT Urban Shark with 2.5" blade. I bought one for use in Chicago and have been giving the 3" length as gifts. For about $30US, the value can't be beat and I have yet to see one with problems.
 
Buy yourself a Cold Steel Medium plain-edge Clip-Point Voyager. I have one (it's my carry "utility" knife), and I really think that this is a GREAT, under-rated folder.
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Dann Fassnacht
Aberdeen, WA
glockman99@hotmail.com
ICQ# 53675663
 
All the sugjestion so far are great ones. Take a look at a stockman also. The Opinel #6 would also fit the bill.
 
BM330 by all means. It is a knife with excellent blade geometry, a honest to gosh frame lock, and will fit on a credit card. Put some rosewood scales on it, and it is beautiful AND functional. One thing; BM uses green Loc-Tite on the screws, so touch them for a second with a hot soldering iron if you ever decide to disassemble it. Here is a pic:

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Walt
 
i'd suggest at least taking a look at the Gerber SLG 3.25.
it pushes the limit of 3 inches.
IMO it's underrated.
great lockup, fairly lightweight, G-10 scales, one stainless steel liner which is only on the locking side, ATS-34 blade.
i think on 1 stop knife shop it's like $55.
i found mine on ebay for $30 including shipping.
the best part i think is the looks. it's more of a gentleman's knife and doesn't scare people, but u can still use it for medium cutting (i've never tried heavy cutting with it, only carboard, string, tape etc.)

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~Fumbler
the crazied knife weilding Sarah McLachlan fan =)
 
The Benchmades are very nice knives to be sure. Our prices up here are rather different, but what about the William Henrys and Case. My personal choice for small but useable knives that won't shock polite society are the small sebbenza and the Umfaan. But they're a bit expensive. My next choice are older Case and even Boker pocket knives, available at any number of antique shows and dealers, usually pretty inexpensive, good knives and never raise an eyebrow because they are so classic looking.
I also like the Kellam folders.

[This message has been edited by HJK (edited 01-08-2001).]
 
Two suggestions in your price range:
1. CRKT Mirage Gray Ghost-3" blade with aluminum scales. Very nicely made. A quality item.
2. CRKT Point Guard- the smaller version with 2 7/8" blade. This was Blade Magazine's Imported knife of the year.
Good Luck!
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i got a mirage for 20 bucks.plastic (kydex???) scales.good knife for an even better price.
 
Baraqyal,

My favorite non-threatening knife is a Mirage Gray Ghost, in the lower price range.

But the BM330 is a beauty, a bit more than you want to spend, but look at it...just what you want.
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Steve-O
 
For the money, you just simply can't beat a Spyderco Native, Calypso Jr., or Delica in FRN. Get what is the most comfortable for you. Better yet, get all three!
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Paul
 
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