BM 556 or 814?

mistakaroo

mistakaroo

Joined
Mar 20, 2003
Messages
166
Ive reading a lot these past few days on the forum and soaked up a bunch of knowlege. For small folder knives, ive narrowed it down to the 556, 814, 705, Spyderco Delica, and Camillus EDC. All cost about the same (minus the 705) but I think the Delica and EDC will stand out too much so its not an option anymore unless you really persuade me. So basically now, I need to choose between the 556 and 814. What are the pros and cons of each? Ill be getting the 705 no matter what. These will be my first knives. Thanks.
 
That's a tough one. I don't see how you can go wrong with either. I'd put the 814 as more of a smaller Self Defense knife and the 556 as more on the 'Utility' side of things, but both would work well in either role (in their smaller weight class) I like the Axis Lock very much, makes for a smoother opening knife, but not so much so as to rule out the liner lock on the 814. I have carried a full sized AFCK for years now and I just got a 551 for my Wife and I like them both very much.

In a showdown, I'd break it down like this:

STRENGTH - about the same
COMFORT - 556
SMOOTHNESS - 556
STEEL - 814 (though 440C is GOOD Stee, too)
WEIGHT - 556
EASE OF CARRY - 814

I guess it comes down to the old "handle both and see which 'fits' you better..." advice, which is good advice.

Good luck,

-John
 
This is a tough one. Having had and carried both for extended periods of time, I would have to go with the mini AFCK. You can't beat a time proven design like the 814. The only thing that it lacks is the axis lock :mad: Hopefully BM will rectify this soon. I wish I had never traded my AFCK's away:(
Matt
 
I used the 812 (former model) and would go with the 556, because of ergonomics, the super dooper AXIS LOCK and utility.

I just if you like diferent blade steels, look out for a knifemaker to get one in the steel you like, but why changing 440C?
 
I agree, get the 556. Looks like you now have the option of getting the 556 with a D2 steel blade thru Cabela's.
 
I suggest the 556. I have a 555 which has proved to be a great little general purpose knife.
The 440C sharpens up to scary very easily, although it won't hold an edge like the VG-10 Delica.
Whichever knife you get I suggest that you get a Spyderco Sharpmaker to keep it nice and sharp.
 
These are both great knives. the 556 is more sheeple-friendly. But the mini-AFCK is better for self-defense purposes. For me, these would be the deciding factors to consider between the two.
 
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