470-131 Emissary is it worth it.

[Ford1911]

Is this knife worth it or would I be better off just buying a 581 barrage or 586 mini-barrage?
I have never owned a knife with a damascus blade. Are they a pain to take care of? Do they scratch or wear easy?
Thanks for any info.

 

[tatfiend]

I like mine but have enough other knives, including a regular 470, so treat it as a "gentlemens dress" knife. In that role no signs of corrosion or other problems with the blade, which I consider to be beautiful. Whether ANY Gold Class Benchmade is worth the cost is a personal decision. I suspect that many are more collectors safe queens rather than EDC and heavily used knives.

 

[P_Meticulous]

Whether ANY Gold Class Benchmade is worth the cost is a personal decision.

Pretty much.. If you love the design, then by all means go for it. If your 50/50 , then maybe hold off. It's a cool design, but nothing that really get me crazy excited.

I have never owned a knife with a damascus blade.

+ You'll have plenty of future opportunity to own a damascus blade, that's gold class for ya', hold out for a favorite model - then you'll really appreciate it

 

[CrialJLA]

I like the 470 Emissary, but the gold class version is bland IMO. You pay an extra 200+ for a damascus blade and micarta inserts that look like poop. If you like the 470, buy the regular version.

 

[CWIN]

I have a regular 470 and it sees plenty of pocket time. I love it's size and lightweight. I'm not a huge fan of the Gold Class version or even damascus blades. I'd say buy the regular version unless you're absolutely in love with the Gold Class.

 

[Rubicon_Joey]

I bought a regular 470-1, had it a week before I decided to sell it. Just didn't feel right in my hand. Seemed like it needed another 1/2" in length and maybe some Ti handles to make it feel right. I loved the design and looks but, it just didn't feel quite substantial enough in the hand to justify keeping at the price I paid for it. Not that it was a flimsy knife in anyway, but it just didn't feel right to me. If you like a lightweight knife then it might be the knife for you. I suggest trying to hold one for yourself before dropping the dough on it.