Benchmade Lerch/Pro-Tech Runt j4?

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Larryb1939

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I recently lost my idc Benchmade Lerch and am having no luck replacing it--unobtanium. So I have looked for a Pro-Tech Runt j4--also unobtanium. Suggestions re. either of these knives OR suitable substitute? This is a carry knife for me, so I'm not going to spend a ton for something that would make a better safel-queen. Nonetheless, I do want the feel and function of a well-designed and executed knife. I keep praying the lost Lerch will return but fear if fell from my pocket while exercising at the Heart Center, and someone decided they needed it more than I do. Whatever. Bring on the suggestions.
 
Here are a few possibilities. (Disclaimer: Autos are not my strong suit so these suggestions are not informed by personal experience. Hopefully someone else can chime in... I just didn't want to leave you in the lerch.)

- Pro-Tech Runt 5 (wharncliffes--dealbreaker?)
- Hogue A01-Microswitch 24124 (longer handle than you might prefer?)
- Kershaw Launch 9

I hope you find what you're looking for!
 
Protech is the best at these types of knives, and they do have a wide variety over the years. It just takes a little luck and a little hunting to find what you're looking for. I really like the current Runt with the tall rectangular blade, but it might be different from the aesthetic you're looking for. If you can't find that J4, they've also made the Sprint with carbon fiber inlays.

Kershaw is most of the way there at a lower price. I'd look at the Launch 12CA especially (or the regular Launch 12 if 2.5" is carry legal for you). It's compact but you get a full grip on it, and it looks a little nicer with the carbon inlay.
 
Used in good shape J4s are available at Arizona Custom Knives. Can’t give you a link because they are not a sponsor.
 
Tsujigiri said:
Protech is the best at these types of knives, and they do have a wide variety over the years. It just takes a little luck and a little hunting to find what you're looking for. I really like the current Runt with the tall rectangular blade, but it might be different from the aesthetic you're looking for. If you can't find that J4, they've also made the Sprint with carbon fiber inlays.

Kershaw is most of the way there at a lower price. I'd look at the Launch 12CA especially (or the regular Launch 12 if 2.5" is carry legal for you). It's compact but you get a full grip on it, and it looks a little nicer with the carbon inlay.
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Thanks, I'm not familiar with the Sprint but will check it out. My biggest problem has been finding a small enough knife with the quality I want. I sure liked my little Lerch. Someone else is probably enjoying it now; hope they appreciate it.
 
Larryb1939 said:
To me, the trouble with Arizona is their price point. I like much of what they have but they are a little proud for my blood.
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You have to remember, they don't set their prices. They're a consignment shop, so the people selling there set the price. If you find something you like, it pays to add it to your cart, because there's a chance the price will drop if the item doesn't sell.

Also, last year they had a couple Benchmade Impels for sale for pretty cheap, so it doesn't hurt to keep an eye on the site from time to time.

Arizona Custom Knives currently has a Lerch Impel for sale. I'm not sure how much you're willing to spend, but it has a coated blade and looks unused.
 
Also a little known tip is that you can email ACK and make an offer on something. They will pass it on to the owner and reply with their answer.
 
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