Best custom tactical folder sub-$400

Joss

Joss

Joined
Nov 20, 2001
Messages
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The title says it. In your opinion, what is the best custom tactical folder out there below $400.

I realize J W Smith can sometimes be found at that price but it's exceptional...

Thanks,

Joss
 
He does excellent work, and is a forumite.

I would love the hear what others have to say on the subject.

Best Regards,

STeven Garsson
 
I've picked up tactical folders from Pat Crawford, Aaron Frederick, Kirby Lambert, and several older Allen Elishewitz pieces all for between $375-$405 each give or take. As for the "best" I picked up a new Elishewitz Omega folder for $350 a few years back and it's well worth that price to me. But as always, "best" can be a very subjective term. About 5 years ago I ordered a custom Spectre folder from Allen as well and it ran me $400 even if I remember correctly, and is a great mid-size tactical.
 
Aaron Frederick makes a nice knife for the money, and has a unique flipper design. From what I have heard Mike Obenauf makes a great knife too, he is on my list if I ever have some money.
 
Mayo. If he gives you the special "half-price discount" :p :D ...

just kidding.... :D
 
Kirby Lambert has become my favourite tactical custom knife maker in the last couple years... exceptional quality and customer service. He still does the customization at reasonable cost that you don't see with the bigger name guys. Meeting him at the CKG show has only impressed me more with his work.
 
I don't think you can beat JW Smith or Rick Hinderer. John's knives are more expensive new, but can easily be found used for under $400. Rick's knives start at around $325 and are simply amazing IMO. I carry a Firetac with me everyday and I love the knife more then any other I've ever had.

I've had knives go through my hands (lots of buying and selling) from a lot of the top makers lately and these two have risen to the top of my list of favorites without a doubt. There are many other really good makers, but these guys are simply great. Not only in the products they produce but also in just being nice, easy to work with people.
 
If you can find a JW Smith under $400, they are smooth as silk.
I have one of David Mosier's (DMKnives) knives and love it as well- a big chunky folder, liner lock is very strong. I think all his folders are under $400.
 
I agree with J. Smith and Rick Hinderer.I do'nt know if Tom Anderson is still making folders for under $400 but he makes a hell of a folder. :)
 
Eddie Baca will let you choose all your own blade/handle materials, blade shape and even give your input on the design for right at that price. :eek: He's GOOD too! ;)
 
Rick Hinderer, definately. And not just his FireTacs, I'm talking with him about one of his smaller models (Flashover) with a Tanto and a Flipper. He says he's never done one with that setup but he ain't afraid. That's cool. :cool:

oily

oh ya, I've got some FireTacs too. :D
 
I've been looking for a nice edc custom folder as well. Something that is a little bit tactical but with some upscale fanciness added to it.

After reading the posts here and looking at the various recommended knifemakers' knives, I called John Smith and we talked for quite awhile.

I asked him to put me on his waiting list. :)
 
There are 3 makers who pop into mind for me in this price range. Rick Hinderer (especially the Firetac), JL Williams (especially the Crux), and Mike Obenauf (especially the Model 1). All three makers do flawless work that IMO is unsurpassed.

Oh, I forgot to mention a couple of other guys who fit in this company as well, Charles Marlowe and DB Fraley, their work is awesome too.
 
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