Best Production Folder Value for EDC

D

diletante

Joined
Mar 20, 2002
Messages
389
I started another thread regarding a couple specific price points, but the responses got me thiking about the broader question--What is the best production folder value for EDC?

I won't try to define "EDC" or "value"--I think there's sufficient consensus out there for a great discussion. I also won't try to limit the question by blade length or lock type.

Obviously, the Sebenza has huge support, but more than one member has said the AFCK Axis lock is as good as it gets and I have heard others say Microtechs offer a great value for the money. I think you could even make an argument for the Camillus EDC in 154-CM at $50 . . .
 
A short list of "value" packed knives:
1 Sebenza
2 Camillus EDC
3 Buck 110/112
4 Spyderco Endura/Delica
5 Opinel
6 Victorinox SAKs


Several different price points, but all "multi-purpose" designs. All these knives offer versatility. All, except the EDC, has stood the test of time. The EDC offers a very good design that is very well made at a very good price.

Paul
 
Benchmade should also be on your short list imho.

Several price points, many good designs in two basic sizes (3" & 4").

I would suggest you look at:

The Griptillian series ($50-$60)

The TSEK series ($50-$90)

The AFCK series ($60-$100)

These are three very practical designs for EDC imho. I would feel comfortable recommending any version of the above. My favorite would be the BM806 AXIS AFCK in D2.

Mongrel
 
Got a small Sebbie, couple Buck 110s and a couple SAKs so we agree mostly.

I'd add a Kershaw Vapor to the value list as a really poor man's Camillus EDC. While the Cami is only $50.00, the Vapor is only $20.00 at Wal-mart. It's a frame lock like the EDC and the Sebbie with a pocket clip and a reasonable blade. The steel is not specified, but I'm guessing it's 420. It's not got the greatest for edge holding, but takes a razor sharp edge with little work. For $20.00 it's an amazing buy.

For relatively cheap and trick, the Gerber SL 3.25 comes to mind. Carbon fiber scales and an ATS-34 blade for well under $100.00 if you shop. The liner lock is a little thin, but if used correctly, this knife should perform well.

Did I mention that you can't really beat a plain small Sebenza? While premium priced for a 3" blade, you're paying almost nothing for pretense or aesthetics on this knife. What you're paying for is Quality materials, precision fabrication and fit, durability and ergonomics. To me this knife typifies great ergos, toughness and wicked cutting ability. I like it so much that I'm thinking of a decorated version with the new S30V balde steel as a purely self indulgent purchase because it can't be any more functional than my lil Sebbie, only prettier.

jmx
 
I'd second the notion on the Vapor.
I personally like the M16, perhaps it could fit (if people don't worry about what kind of steel was used.)
 
These are a few of my suggestions for value packed folders:

1. ANYTHING Spyderco!!! They are ALL value packed.
2. Almost anything CRKT (like mentioned earlier - if you don't mind the steel)
3. Kershaw Boa
4. Buck 110
5. Benchmade AFCK - look around. you can find 'em cheap.

Good luck on your hunt, and remember - the search is half the fun!
 
eknifeworks.com has the Spyderco Calypso Jr. in VG-10 for only $25 right now, and that is a hard to beat value.
 
BENCHMADE Griptiliann – 550 or 551, full sized or mini.
In my honest opinion it is really hard to find better buy for daily carry among production folders.
 
Originally posted by PWork
A short list of "value" packed knives:
1 Sebenza
2 Camillus EDC
3 Buck 110/112
4 Spyderco Endura/Delica
5 Opinel
6 Victorinox SAKs
Click to expand...

Paul has excellent taste in knives. I'd even add the BM710HS to the list.
 
Spyderco FRN Native
CRKT Crawford/Kasper FF
Cold Steel Voyager series
Leatherman Micra
 
I forgot to list the Outdoor Edge Magna. They are tough, well designed knives that would be hard to beat for the price.
 
SAKs are one of the best values out there. Spyderco, CRK&T, Cold Steel, and Camillus all make lower priced knives that are also great values.
Right now, I think the prize has got to go to the $25 Calypso Jr.'s over at www.eknifeworks.com , as James suggested. Don't miss out this is a great knife!
 
I carry an AFCK myself but I'm gonna have to say Spyderco Native FRN on this one. I just cannot fault that knife.
 
I like the Buck/Strider collaboration #880sp in BG42,
simillar design as the more expensive Strider.
 
Buzz,
The BM 710/705 should probably be added to the list. They certainly have a very strong following. The knives I listed are ones I have experience with. I have never even held a BM axis lock so can't offer an opinion one way or the other. I do like the looks of the design, especially the 705. If the axis lock proves to be (over time) what everyone says it is, then the Griptillians will make the list too. The axis lock is still fairly new. Only time, and endurance, will tell.

Paul
 
As far as I know, the best quality folding knife you can get in the $120 range is an Al Mar SERE 2000.

It is an awesome knife.
 
I you buy a small Sebenza used I think the only thing you are really out is the interest from the money if you were to leave it in the bank. You can literally spend a couple of hundred bucks, carry one for several years, sell it and have your money back. You may have to spend $20.00 or so for a refurb but if taken care of you may not have to. What better "value" is there?:D
 
IMHO;)
-Benchmade Griptilian
-Gerber Air Ranger II
-Camillus EDC
-Outdoor Edge Paragee (I have bought a few NIB on Ebay for about $25)
-Gerber slg/sl 3.25 (under $45 at www.dnrsports.net)

On the other end of the scale there are some great values in customs, not to mention the sebenza.:D :D
 
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