Best titanium frame lock under $250

[BMCGear]

I don't care a ton for flippers so ZT is out for me. I also don't like how thick the grind behind the edge is.

So far the Chef is the best I've found under $250.

 

[abbazaba]

 

[silvaticus]

Fox Terzuola FX-525TI for me.

 

[Icky Thump]

Lion Steel TRE Flipper G10 (not the convertible)

Ti frame lock w/ Steel insert, OTS, crowned spine and M390, sculpted 3D machined Ti clip..under $200

 

[sharp_edge]

OP said framelock but not necessarily flipper. I say Spyderco S90V TI/CF Military (was $200 after discount, but no longer available) or ZT 0562CF (was $240 before price increase).

 

[Pharmagator]

Fluted ti millie

 

[Argle]

In that price range, I'd go with the Pro Tech TR-3 Integrity.

 

[rexromic]

Spyderco Techno 1

 

[brando555]

I think the 0470 is one of the nicest ZT knives I own.

 

[bflying]

I don't care a ton for flippers so ZT is out for me. I also don't like how thick the grind behind the edge is.

So far the Chef is the best I've found under $250.

The ZT 0850 may be worth checking out. Though not a full framelock (called a sub-framelock), I'd still count it. Not a flipper, and although not on bearings either, smooth as butter. Because it's been discontinued, they can now be found at discounted prices below $250, and substantially below their original MAP.

And just for fun, mine rings in at 0.025 behind the edge. So not a deep hollow grind edge, but very useable for most purposes. Not necessarily saying it's the "best" framelock, but because of current pricing, well worth checking out.

Would also give props to the Massdrop/WE collabs. The few I have are pretty spectacular for the price.

 

[falar]

The 0393 is also on discontinued closeout and is under 200 anywhere that has it in stock still. Lots of value there as well.

 

[Mako109]

For under $250, these are some excellent ones in my collection:

ZT0562
ZT0095
ZT0452
ZT0220
Spyderco Advocate (CQI)
Massdrop Brad Zinker Dogtooth
Massdrop Ferrum Forge Dao

 

[blades&wrenches]

I’m a big fan of the Spyderco Advocate!

 

[Yo Mama]

Spyderco Southard = best for 250, Discontinued and getting harder to find knifeworks has one in stock it looks like right now though.

 

[Stumpy72]

If you’re OK with a large framelock flipper with a great action, Ti scales and an M390 blade, check out the Real Steel Megalodon. IMO it’s an underrated, quality piece for ~$210.

 

[sixfeetdeep]

Zero Tolerance 0220 Anso model is a great choice with money to spare. Currently on Blade HQ for $169
I know you said that ZT might not be what your looking for, but it's a hell of a deal on a very solid knife. Just a suggestion.

 

[Sonnydaze]

...highly agree with the Massdrop Keen/Laconico.
I have a grooved bronze and I've carried it since I got it new. Outstanding knife, and
it's the first Chinese model that sparked my fancy. Awfully difficult to beat for the .money

 

[yamsi12]

ZT 0801ti

 

[Mako109]

If you’re OK with a large framelock flipper with a great action, Ti scales and an M390 blade, check out the Real Steel Megalodon. IMO it’s an underrated, quality piece for ~$210.

I agree, this one has been highly rated by several popular Youtube knife reviewers.

 

[BD_01]

All my top pics have been mentioned!
ZT 0801 (Ti) or 0450
Spyderco Spydiechef or (disco’d) Southard.
Based on what I have read, very few people are unhappy with the Spydiechef. Without specific guidance, it’s probably what I’d recommend someone purchase.

The Southard is my favorite of the lot, however.