Best?

I don't have one, but the Gayle Bradley is a very nice knife. It has excellent quality materials, but it also has an oversized handle like the Para and it's kinda heavy. So you have to decide exactly what qualities you're looking for.

The Caly 3 and Sage models have great ergonomics as does the Native series. The Sage 1 has fantastic CF scales while the Sage 2 is titanium w/ a frame lock (RIL).

The Military is another really great knife. Everybody should have one, but is it the best? I don't know.

You're not likely to have F&F issues w/ any Spyderco from the Delica/Endura on up. Try to let us know what features you are looking for and what use you have for it and maybe we can be of more help. But in truth you can't really go wrong w/ any of the knives mentioned in this thread.
 
I like the ATR, of course I like dozens of models just as much. They all are really good from cheaper to higher priced.
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I am a big back lock fan. Every one I have owned has developed a small amount of blade play over time. Every one except the Caly 3. The quality construction of this knife has amazed me after continued use of over a year.
IMO the quality of a knife can only be seen after long term use. Just because a knife looks of quality dosn't mean it will hold up to the test of time.

The Caly 3 is top notch.
 
1- Military s30v (haven't dealt with other models yet)
2- ParaMilitary D2 (Recently found one and bought it, I love this thing)
3- Native/Caly3/Sage 1......
I could go on and on and on... :)
 
In no particular order. (Again, the OP asked about quality of build, specifically.)

-Orange Millie
-Manix 2 (any of them)
-Gayle Bradley
-Sages I and II
-Bob T. Slip-It
-UKPK

In my experience, all of these have been exceptional in terms of fit and finish.

Never owned or held a Paramilitary I was happy with, and all of the FRN models seem to slot in a level or two below any of the above. (Still nice though.)
 
Best = millie
Second best = endura/delica
 
after MILI , I would put Manix 1 and Manix2 also Police Classic and Delica , PARA,
it is way to hard to pick just one they made so many great knifes !!!:thumbup:
 
berserk87 said:
That question is a toughie. Sort of like asking which is the best guitar, or motorcycle.
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Obviously Jackson Randy Road V is the best ;]

[not bias bc I own one or anything.]

I guess Les Pauls are nice..and some Scheters and ibanez...



Sage 2 is quite nice...I agree with cgmblade to start there ;]
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Alann45 said:
In your opionion/experience which is the best made and highest quality Spyderco folder in current production?

Here I'm thinking of design, materials, workmanship...emphasis on quality.
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Top materials: CF/ZDP-189
F&F are outstanding
design is almost perfect.
Legal to carry almost everywhere in US.
 
Everything put out by Spyderco's better Taiwanese maker (Sages, Chokwe, Terzuola Slipit, Bradley) has been top notch in terms of build quality, fit & finish etc.

The Cat and Chicago are also made in Taiwan, but by a different maker.

A particular Japanese maker, who marks blades simply "Japan" rather than "Seki City Japan", is also known for very high quality (Caly 3, Persian, JD Smith, Barong, Khukuri, and others).
 
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catamount123 said:
A particular Japanese maker, who marks blades simply "Japan" rather than "Seki City Japan", is also known for very high quality (Caly 3, Persian, JD Smith, Barong, Khukuri, and others).
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Not sure about JD Smith, Barong, Khukuri, but know for sure that Caly and Persians, along with Kopas and probably Kiwi made by Moki.
 
Not my favorite model by a long shot, not even close, but strictly on a materials and workmanship level, I'd put the Viele Phoenix at the top of the heap among current production models.

Paul
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My Personal Website ---- Beginners Guide to Spyderco Collecting ---- Kiwimania ---- Spydiewiki
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i just got the new white goddard and it is really nice.
its the perfect size and weight (2.7oz) for everyday carry.
im a sucker for micarta.
they're on ebay for $90 which i think is a steal. i think i paid $140 for my original c18 back in 97.
 
Alann45 said:
To be at the top of a quality list there definitely should be no blade play, smooth action, good detent, excellent fit and finish. Internal and external materials should reflect the quality.
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And away we go!

Superhawk: Near perfect combination of construction, ergonomics, and materials. (technically discontinued, but still on the market at great sale prices)

Manix 2: Very well made and versatile knife, especially for the price. Keep an eye out for sprint runs.

Military: They've been making these for 14 years now and they're only getting better. Consistently cited by forum members as the linerlock that they trust the most. Also look for sprint runs in new steels.

Stretch 2 CF/ZDP-189: I don't have one, but I know many think it's a hidden gem in Spyderco's lineup. Expect smooth action, precise construction, and high overall useability.
 
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