Auto-assist, M390, folder under $250?

N

Namuna

Joined
Aug 24, 2012
Messages
21
Hi everyone,

Was hoping for some recs on an auto-assist, M390 folder in the $250(US) or under range.

So far I know about the:
* Benchmade 710-2 Knifeworks exclusive (but does it have the auto-assist?)
* ZT 0560/0561 in Elmax (not M390, but very close)
* Spyderco milli with the M390 (but no auto-assist, and only available aftermarket)

I've got a Blur S30V and a ZT 0550. I love the auto-assist on the Blur, but like the bigger size of the 0550 and S35VN blade so its' my edc. I've read how awesome M390 is and I'd like to put one in my collection.

Thanks.
 
The only one available as far as I know is the limited edition benchmade barrage. You may also be able to find an assisted htm ddr gunhammer in m390, but I believe they are quite rare.

None of the others you listed are assisted, and elmax isn't really very close to m390 at all. The only real similarity between elmax and m390 is that they are both extremely corrosion resistant. M390 will hold an edge MUCH longer, but elmax will be a bit tougher.
 
Benchmade 581. I don't think it is a limited edition, it has four variations of plain/combo and coated blades.
 
You guys are right, the 581 isn't a limited edition. I thought it was, my bad. But yeah... Just go with the 581 if you want assisted opening and m390.
 
Thanks for the heads-up on the BM 581 folks, it looks like just the ticket! I'm hunting the internets for best price now. :thumbup:
 
Yeah man, I've not been disappointed with my 581 Barrage at all...GET IT.

Opens up lightening quick/hard and M390 is even better than I expected. Was a bit skeptical at first based on all the hype, but it really does take such a ridiculous edge with just the right amount of bite/tooth (I stop at Naniwa 5K SS) and holds onto that sucker better than any other steel I've used.
 
BM 581 ordered! Thanks again for the recs...The Southard and Para2 look sweet, will keep an eye out for those as well.
 
Chipped Karambit said:
Wait a bit for the Spyderco Southard. It is an assisted flipper with steel thats edge retention beats M390.
Click to expand...

CTS-204P does not beat m390 in edge retention, CTS-204P is carpenter steel's take on bohler's m390. They are the exact same alloy, the only difference being 204P is made in the USA by carpenter steel, and m390 is a European steel made by bohler-uddeholm.

But yes, I agree, the spyderco southard is going to be an excellent knife.
 
You made up your mind fast!

I was about to suggest that HTM Gun Hammer in M390. That's my current EDC. Darrel had some problems with QC (QC team has now been replaced), but I figure if you get a bad one, just send it into HTM and they'll take care of you.

2012-06-22142639.jpg
 
+1 on the HTM GUNHAMMER in M-390,love mine, I will probably get the Southard also and the Torpedo HTM GUNHAMMER in M-390. I just cant help myself.No self control. Just paid for my GSO-10 3V CHOPPER preorder.
 
Mr. Grimm, surprised you didn't get in on the forum Gun Hammer in stonewashed S90V... If Darrel's making extras, you might be able to get in on one of them still.
 
mkjellgren said:
CTS-204P does not beat m390 in edge retention, CTS-204P is carpenter steel's take on bohler's m390. They are the exact same alloy, the only difference being 204P is made in the USA by carpenter steel, and m390 is a European steel made by bohler-uddeholm.

But yes, I agree, the spyderco southard is going to be an excellent knife.
Click to expand...
They are at different HRC. Different HRC yeild different effects. The CTS-204P will be run higher then the average M390 (59-61) from what I have heard giving it the proverbial Edge

crimsonfalcon07 said:
You made up your mind fast!

I was about to suggest that HTM Gun Hammer in M390. That's my current EDC. Darrel had some problems with QC (QC team has now been replaced), but I figure if you get a bad one, just send it into HTM and they'll take care of you.

2012-06-22142639.jpg
Click to expand...

I am still waiting on him to reply to my email. 62HRC M390 seems nice but I am afraid to use mine. Got some front to back blade play and I plan to break it in Boar hunting which I either need a fixed blade or a sturdy folder. It is smooth with no side to side play.
 
Chipped Karambit said:
Wait a bit for the Spyderco Southard. It is an assisted flipper with steel thats edge retention beats M390.
Click to expand...

Something to clarify, I don't believe any Spyderco knives are assisted opening i.e. "spring assisted". Not that a spring is needed for most of them.

The Southard has a flipper and ball bearings in the pivot washers so it will be extremely smooth. I personally don't really like spring assist knives, sure they open fast but not really much faster than a well designed folder. The problem is closing them with one hand, I cut myself pretty bad once trying to close a Leek one handed when it slipped in my hand while compressing the spring.

Just my opinion.
 
I missed the deadline for the Forum Gunhammer.I would love to get my hands on one.Might have to sell a knife or two though, I have been spending more than I planned on lately on knives. My M-390 GUNHAMMER was advertised as being 62 HRC.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top