Benchmade Griptilian or Spyderco Manix 2 XL

T

TheTacticalMatt

Joined
Jan 24, 2013
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Hi guys I'm new here, and fairly new to knife collecting, and was wondering what knife I should go with for my next knife purchase. I was wondering what your experiences were with the knives, and which lock you preferred. Thanks, Matt
 
I think the Griptilian is the better edc knife, while the Manix 2 XL is more suited to heavy use. Both good, but very different knives.

Although I have much more expensive knives, I probably carry a Griptilian more than any other knife. I really love the sheepsfoot models with the opening hole and s30v steel.
 
Alright thanks! Do you think the handles are wimpy on the Grip? Do you prefer the ball bearing lock or the axis? Thanks, Matt
 
Axis lock is much smooth...good for EDC. MXL ball lock is much stiffer and you gotta pinch it.
 
Damn...that's a rough comparison. I have both and I'll say for an average EDC type use, the griptilian wins. The locks on both are similar and have similar capabilities but the axis is smoother. The handles on the griptilian are fine. If you manage to break them in use, you probly have a severley damaged hand as well. The Manix 2 XL is significantly bigger and heavier but I spose if you had to take it to the limit, it is probly a bit tougher than the griptilian. If size is no hinderance ot you carrying, I guess go with what ever steel you like most. Or you could split the difference and look at the regular manix 2. Kind of like Spydercos griptilian and also with 154cm steel. I love both however.
 
Thanks guys! I think I will be picking up the Grip, but will let you know when I do decide. I really wish Spyderco would offer the regular Manix in FFG.
 
I like the axis lock better, much smoother. The Manix was stiff and hard to operate.

From what I have read on these forums I am one of the few people who don't mind the handles on the grip. I like light weight so it is actually a plus. The mini grip doesn't fee sub-par to me at all. I see it as being something that is in one's head as the "cheap-o" handles won't fail. Some judge it because it feels like it would.

I have never handled a grip with custom handles, haven't consider buying any as the price is more than the knife. I do have a 2013 shot show grip coming so I will get to feel one in g10.

The mini grip is my EDC, some models come with "super steel" blades which appeals to me and I really don't like anything bigger in my pocket. I rotate larger knives in on occasion just to remember I don't like getting poked in the hip bone when I bend over.
 
I absolutely love the axis lock, I've had a lot of griptilians over the years, I love em. Solid knives, no complaints with them
 
I had a Manix 2 (for a short period of time), I actually bought it alongside a Griptilian. Both knives were smooth. While the locking mechanism on the manix is stiffer, the blade glided open and closed like butter. Once you have the technique down, there is no problem. Either is a solid choice, it comes down to personal preference. I ended up selling the Manix not long after.

The Grip's stock scales were okay. Nothing structurally or functionally wrong with them, and I don't see them breaking anytime soon. But I traded for some Cuscadi CF scales and it feels much more solid now. Peace of mind more than anything else.
 
Yes. Very different animals. The Manix 2 XL is very big and really rather heavy. But it's flat. I have a couple of Benchmade Adamas and they are very, very thick beasts. The Manix 2 XL carries like a smaller knife in my opinion. I EDC in rotation an Endura or a Delica which are just about the flatest of the flat. Yet when I do swap in the Manix 2 XL, I don't frankly notice the extra size. It carries well.

I don't have a Grip but it is probably the Benchmade version of the Delica/Endura thing, optimized in just about every way for EDC. I am speaking from its reputation, not my own experience.
 
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