Best EDC of these 7?

If I were to pick 2 from the ones you listed, I'd go with the Skyline and Link. The Skyline is a nice, slim, light, manual flipper, and the Link is a bit more robust assisted one. The Skyline makes for an excellent slicer due to its thin hollow ground blade, and the almost sheepsfoot-like blade profile on the Link is pretty versatile. The Cryo and RAT II are both pretty nice as well. The Persistence and Tenacious just didn't fit me well (although if you through the Delica and Endura into the mix, I like those two a lot). I haven't tried the RJ Tactical.

As for an inexpensive sharpener, something like the Lansky Turn Box might be a cheaper alternative to the Sharpmaker for a somewhat-guided system. Something like a DMT Diafold may be more versatile, but it will have a bit more of a learning curve, since it's all free-hand.
 
They all make decent options for edc, which is "better" will come down ti personal preferences, which yours will be different then many others...

Based on your previous thread, you want something smaller, 4" handle, that could serve as a potential self defense weapon in the event of an emergency, where your sidearm isn't available. That said, liner locks are inherently the weakest, and least reliable locking system under stress and twist, so in the event of self defense, (think stabbing during an intense struggle), you wouldn't want to rely on the least reliable locking system.

Also stepping outside of traditionals (your comfort zone), you will likely want something lighter...

The Rat 2 isn't a flipper, liner lock, and very thin blade.
The Link will be heavier >4oz. and larger with a 4.5" handle, also a liner lock.
Skyline is upper end of your budget, and also a liner lock with a very thin blade.
Tenacious is also a liner lock, and heavier (4oz.), and no flipper, and a larger handle (4.5")
Persistence is a smaller lighter tenacious, still a liner lock and no flipper.
-(they too are at the higher end of your budget.
The RJ Tactical 3.0 is also a liner lock, but checks every other box; 4" handle, &#8776;3" blade, <3oz.

The Cryo is the only one, based on YOUR wants (and needs), not mine or theirs, that checks every box, size, price, flipper; and is a frame lock, which still isn't necessarily "ideal", but is inherently stronger and more secure then a liner lock.

So of those listed, the best edc FOR YOU, based on what you said you were looking for, is the Cryo, RJ Tactical #2, since it is the only liner lock that checks every box as well...

Two other handsome Steel handle frame locks that come to mind, the Kershaw Nura 3.0 checks every box, and CRKT Pazoda is not a flipper, and non assisted, but has a hole similar to Spyderco for easy deployment.
 
If the store was out of Links, I'd grab the RAT.

I've had both the Spyderco choices listed, and gave both away. One of them right here on BFC.
 
none of the above! spend a little extra money and get yourself a domino or at least a native 5 G-10 version,both of these folders make a grate pocket EDC and would be a good replacement for that old case you own.
 
The Kershaw Cryo is a great knife. I was given one as gift. I love it. I love how it feels in the hand, flips open & sits in the pocket. It is a great knife.
 
I'd go with the RAT as a main edc. It's a nice size and will accomplish any task you throw at it.

I would also pick up the skyline because... well? It's a flipper! And everyone needs at least one flipper in their collection! The skyline can also be had with highest quality steels out of the bunch.
 
I'm going to dissent and say that you've been a knife carrier for 35 years. You deserve to have an edc with a nicer steel. If I had to pick a budget edc it would be the Dozier lockback or for something big a code 4 in cts. But really I would so he looking at something by crk, Spyderco, cs, benchmade, zt or Kershaw. For me as I do mostly like cutting out of your choices I would go with the Skyline.

But a nice boker kwaiken or mini kwaiken would be a solid edc as well.
 
Rat 2 first and second place I would pick the Rat II. If you need something bigger get the RAT 1
 
flarp said:
As for an inexpensive sharpener, something like the Lansky Turn Box might be a cheaper alternative to the Sharpmaker for a somewhat-guided system. Something like a DMT Diafold may be more versatile, but it will have a bit more of a learning curve, since it's all free-hand.
Click to expand...

I appreciate the info on the sharpener. That's more in line with what I was hoping to spend (<$25, and they even have one for $13.50 but I'm not sure what the difference in the two models are) and I definitely need one with a somewhat low learning curve.

Do I need some honing oil to along with that sharpener?

TripleB67
 
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Cold Steel mini American Lawman in cts-xhp steel is a great option if you are willing to double your budget.
 
I'm a Spydie fan, so I'd go with the Persistence and Tenacious (I've owned both, and they're high-value EDC folders).
 
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