A few Folder Questions

R

Rifter

Joined
Dec 15, 2001
Messages
774
Ok im going to be getting a cheap folder, IO've narrowed it down to either the Kershaw Vapor I or II or the CRKT M16-Z. My questions are, which has a better locking mechanisim? what has better steel? and whixh one would you get and why? thanks for your time guys.
 
Dang, why couldn't you ask an easy question?
I like the design of the M16 (in fact I like a great many of Kit Carson's designs) and I wouldn't be surprised to hear of it having the better lock, but i've also heard alot about CRKT's AUS6M not performing to acceptable levels - it was enough to scare me away from the F4 I was originally planning on getting.
The kershaw is a little different, it's a small frame lock - frame locks are usually strong but to be honest I haven't examined this one personally, I would hypothesize that because of it's dimunitive dimensions, the frame isn't much thicker than the average liner-lock... the blade as far as I know is a well-heat treated 420HC, not the greatest stuff in the world but don't be fooled, a well heat treated 420HC can whoop badly heat treated AUS6M anyday of the week - as my Camillus 420HC Arclite clearly proves.
And speaking of Camillus products... let me throw something in the pot you perhaps didn't consider: how about a Camillus Sierra? Those knives are fantastic folders for the money - the only really downside is they can't be one-hand closed in a particularly practical manner, but the quality of their heat treat is so excellent Camillus 420HC acts more like 440A! Also i'm almost sure that the Sierra would have a stronger lock than the Vapor or M16-Z. Just something to consider.
 
Thank you for your input, i will do some reasearch into the camillus now, thanks! Anyone else got some info to share?
 
Just ordered a CRKT M-16 13Z(big plain edge) as well as a Vapor II, So i will compare them and then use whatever one i like more, and give the other to my GF, she has been pestering me for a folder. Thanks for the help guys.
 
stjames,
no offense, but you are misinformed - the Vapor is made in Japan, which is why it is labeled "Kershaw International" on the blade. All CRKTs are made in Taiwan, all Camillus models are made in the good ole US of A, think about it...
 
YC, thanks for the clarification, I was unsure.

So the answer is Cammilus EDC!
 
Heh, I love the EDC too, but I felt it was outta the price range Rifter was lookin' at, which is why I suggested the Sierra instead.
 
Is an M18 out of the question? I would recommend it over the M16 because it has the LAWKS system making the lock virtually unbreakable. However if you don't like the shape of the blade it is a moot point.
 
Originally posted by YoungCutter
The kershaw is a little different, it's a small frame lock - frame locks are usually strong but to be honest I haven't examined this one personally, I would hypothesize that because of it's dimunitive dimensions, the frame isn't much thicker than the average liner-lock...
Click to expand...
A frame lock's strength doesn't really come from its thickness. A frame lock is a "naked" liner lock, so when it's engaged, your grip is holding it in place, too. The handle scales of a liner lock knife shield the lock from this advantage. Also, because the grip of your hand on a liner lock knife is on the scales, if a strong grip shifts, "white-knuckling" the handle, your finger may actually push the liner open.

I would match the strength of my tiny integral lock CRK Umfaan against any liner lock.
 
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