Benchmade's AFCK vs. Spyderco's Military

T

Turgid

Joined
Oct 15, 1999
Messages
6
I've narrowed my selection to the AFCK and Military, unfortunatly my knowledge of knives is somewhat limited. Does anyone have any suggestions about which knife to buy and why. I would be using the knife for general chores, daily carry, and outdoor use.

Thanks
 
This is going to be fun.

I will through in the first curve and ask if you are considering the M2 or ATS-34 version of the AFCK? There is going to be a lot said about the steel used in the Military, 440V, vs the AFCK in either of its steel choices.

I would also consider the difference in construction. Some people love the ultra light single nested liner of the military, while I prefer the dual liners for a more solid feel in a heavy working knife.


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James Segura
San Francisco, CA


 
I think I made my single longest post to date here:
http://www.bladeforums.com/ubb/Forum1/HTML/004246.html

I'll refrain from adding to it, though Sal, Vince, and Patrick at Spyderco had some interesting points when they quizzed me on it
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-Drew
 
Of the two you mention, I would go for the Military. However, I believe that a better comparison would be that of the AFCK and the Wegner. Both have great ergonomics and are good quality knives. I would go for the Wegner in this scenario. The Wegner is being marketed as a folding hunter but dont let that fool you. It is a great "tactical" knife in the same class as the AFCK. There are some great threads about the Wegner in the Spyderco forum.
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-Dennis




[This message has been edited by shootist16 (edited 16 October 1999).]
 
I don't feel that the two knives listed are exactly comparable.You may want to refine your list of requirements,such as size, weight, blade configuration,type of steel, etc. before choosing.They are both great knives, but I favor the Military for my needs.

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AKTI Member #A000934
"To grow older is inevitable.To grow UP is optional"


 
I like the Military best.They are both long knives,but I think the Military carries better.The AFCK has that curve in the handle that was somewhat uncomfortable to me.Military has a thicker blade but has a full flat grind with a thin edge and the AFCK has a thinner blade with a saber grind.I feel that the Military cuts better when making deep cuts,like heavy cardboard.This is sort of a tough question.They are both darn good knives.The Military just seems to work better for me.
scott w
 
I prefer the Military due to the weight, blade shape and the better steel. I have ACFKs in M-2 and ATS-34, and the CPM-440V Military seems to hold an edge better and longer.
 
I don't own a military but I would love to get one (it's on my list-would love to see a mini military). I've only recently purchased a mini AFCK and I've got a few complaints about it but...I have to admit that there is something about the looks and styling of the AFCK that just clicks with me. I have a mini axis lock that I think is much smoother to operate and a mechanical design wonder. I love the looks of it but the AFCK styling has a little stronger aesthetic appeal for me. There is just something satisfying about it's overall geometry.

I think it's safe to say that the AFCK is a "classic" by most standards, much like the Buck 110 is a classic. And a great part of what makes something a classic is style.

I can remember when we used to brag about cars that lasted over 100,000 miles. Like a 57 chevy for instance. A real classic, but mechanically, not in the same league as today's autos that routinely run 150,000+ miles without touching the engine. But nevertheless, is there anyone out there who doesn't love the looks of a 57 Chevy (besides curmudgeonly old Ford fanatics
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)?

I think the AFCK is like a 57 Chevy or maybe more appropriately, a Mazda Myata (sp?). I'd take one for a test drive.



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Hoodoo

Cogita tute
 
I have both an AFCK and Stryker in M2. Awsome blades. I know that the Sryker was not included in this thread but .....
I've carried my friends Military for about a month. He left it at my house and he would do the same with one of my knives!!!
I have a large hand and for me the Stryker has the best feel, second would be the Military followed my the AFCK. For the best all around blade I would have to go with the AFCK. The Military is a well made kife but.... Once the Military goes back to its owner, I dont see myself running out to buy one like I would if I lost one of the Benchmades.
Neil

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Lots of Pics!!Please be patient......Moving to a faster server soon!
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I have also been debating this issue internally for some time: Military vs. AFCK. I own neither but wish to purchase one of the two. This week I'll get a Military. I think the Military is just a step above the AFCK; not to say that the AFCK isn't a great knife, but the Military is on a different level. It's materials and construction are very innovative and it's design seems more well thought out. Plus, little details like the laser etched blade and ribbed choil are really appealling. Everyone here agrees that both knives are very good, but I've found that some forumites seem to almost worship the Military model.
 
I carry both daily and each are very good but, I've found the Military model is more to my liking. No matter which you decide on make the other your next purchase.
 
I'm going against the popular vote and go with the AFCK. I've got both, but to me, the AFCK's ergonomics are the tops. I also prefer the clip placement on the AFCK. Let's face it, the Military is a pretty big knife (IMO, large compared to the AFCK).

I've taken my beloved Dremel to my AFCK, and "Kasper-ized" it - and it fits my hand perfectly.
 
I replied more fully in the string that Corduroy referenced. My choice between the two is the AFCK. The ergonomics on the AFCK work much better for me, the very large handle is still a bit smaller than the military's (better carryability for me), and I like the AFCK's conventional belly better than the Military, though the Military's excellent flat grind makes up for it.

In real life, I've chosen the Benchmade Axis over both these knives, and the choice wasn't even that difficult, I like the Axis that much better. When Spyderco puts their next-generation lock on the Wegner and Starmate, then it'll be a horse race again.

Joe
 
I'd vote for the AFCK, but as StJames and a few have mentioned, the M2 verison would be my pref. I have the ATS-34 plain edge and it's a very handy knife. I carry a different knife on the belt and the AFCK in the right front pocket and it really opens quickly and has a strong lockup. Almost got the Custom version that was on the Auction by Drew with the M2 blade! nuts, but I'm looking to get the M2 blade soon and sell the ATS-34 to a fellow here at work.
Where's the best place to get one in M2?

G2

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I don't have a solution,

But I admire your problem.

www.geocities.com/Yosemite/Cabin/7306/blades.html

 
I've owned both knives. Both are great knives, so its a tough choice. I would get the AFCK. For me I prefer the higher clip placement of the AFCK. It allows the knife to sit lower in the pocket. The Military sits high in the pocket. The AFCK also has a slimmer "footprint" in my pocket. For me its easier to carry. The Military's 440V steel is better but, the AFCK's ATS-34 blade is good enough to get the job done. Good luck in choosing. Definately handle both before buying.
 
I too have owned both knives including an AFCK in M2. Bottomline for me and my hand is indicated by which one I still own.... the Military in CPM440V
smile.gif
!


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-=[Bob Allman]=-

I did NOT escape from the institution! They gave me a day pass!

BFC member since the very beginning
Member: American Knife & Tool Institute
......... Varmint Hunters Association
......... National Rifle Association
......... Praire Thunder Inc.
......... Rapid City Rifle Club
......... Spearfish Rifle & Pistol Club
pending: Buck Collectors Club (prime interest: 532s)
Certified Talonite(r) enthusiast!

 
Well it looks like it all boils down to ergonomics here so far.

I have both and my AFCK has served me well, but something better came along in the form of a Spydie Military.
For me, it feels better in my hand (after I doctored the grip ala Bladeforums advice), and I much prefer the 440V. Not just because it's the steel of the week, it just performs better than ATS34, plus I've always felt that a full height flat grind works better on a "do all" knife. Hey, it works for me.
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The individualist without strategy who takes opponents lightly will inevitably become the captive of others.


 
Shrike9,
A thread was posted a while back (first year Archive is where it is, I believe) telling how to deepen the finger groove on the Military's liner to make a finger choil. This greatly increased the feel of the folder for me as well as making it safer for a commited thrust should the need arise. It really makes a world of difference. Worth checking out. Sorry I don't have time to do it right now. Dolphin game is on.

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The individualist without strategy who takes opponents lightly will inevitably become the captive of others.


 
I've been a fan, and carried, the AFCK for a long time, but after receiving a Military from Spyderco, the AFCK has taken a backseat.

The action seems to be smoother, I like the long flat grind, the liner lock is easy to operate with gloves, and the whole mechanism doesn't seem to gum up as easy.

Headed out the door within the hour to catch a plane to Peru for a couple of weeks in the jungle. The Military's going on this one.

See you guys in a couple of weeks. - Jeff

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Randall's Adventure & Training
jeff@jungletraining.com

 
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