BM 940-2, PM2, Manix 2...which ONE?

[cchu518]

As an all around edc I'd go 940 or manix lw/PM2. Really if you can get all three. So what you don't like. All three are great edits though. The regular manix not so much. The military is an amazing edc btw if you are OK with bigger folders.

 

[Bill1170]

All three are very good knives. It is so hard to make an informed decision without holding each in hand and then using it. The 940 is very slim when folded, so less crowded in pocket than the Spydercos which are both wider. All three have great locks, PM2 is the only asymmetrical lock of the bunch. Many lefties have no problem operating the compression lock. I find the Axis lock easier to disengage than the Manix's CBBL.

I find the Spydercos have blade geometry that works better for cutting thick and/or stiff materials.

All three can be opened either by thumbing or by disengaging the lock and flicking open. Do you have a preference for thumb studs or the hole opener? Finally, the Manix lightweight is the lightest of the three. They are all good knives made by companies that stand behind their products.

 

[K.O.D.]

I own both the PM2 and a Manix 2. I have on numerous occasions handled a 940, every had blade play.

I absolutely hate S30V. The Manix is by far my favorite, but I would get the S110V version, as S30V microchips horribly.

 

[bikerector]

Just throwing it out there, there's a manix LW with blue handle for $65 in the classifieds I've been following (was thinking about getting the shallot but it sold recently).

http://bladeforums.com/threads/multiple-knives-spyderco-kershaw-chaves.1495326/#post-17190255

 

[Ero2]

It seems to me that you did a lot of research looking for the "Best EDC knife". Yes, for regular use In khakis & jeans you'd be hard pressed to find better EDCs than those 3.
HOWEVER, If you are mostly in gym shorts. I have completely different recommendations. Forget the PM2 & Manix2 (unless it's a LW) They will pull your pants down. The 940 will work fine, but I think you were on a better track with the Native. Look for knives with grivory, FRN or carbon fiber handles and you'll be happier with your choice than if you went with any of your original choices.
Here are a few you should definitely be checking out.

Spyderco Delica/Endura

Benchmade Ritter Griptillian/Mini Grip

Benchmade Freek

ZT 450CF

This is a hugely valid point, and somehow, one I didn't even think about/consider much. The 566 I didn't love because of "heft" weighs 5.3 ounces, but the Manix LW and PM2 are almost half that. The size didn't bother me at all, was just the weight of it when in "sports shorts". i actually like the blade profile of the ritter, but scales seem "thick" in comparison, and not sure from what I've read, the Ritter is double the price better than the regular mini grip.

A lot of this would be easier if I could HOLD a bunch of them lol, but ordering sight unseen makes it difficult, and I appreciate everyone's insight and recommendations! Open to more if there's anything we missed, but man, appreciate you all taking the time!

 

[Aquaholicc]

OP do you like small/sleek knives or bigger/substantial knives? That's all you gotta ask yourself when choosing.

When I first got into knives I went the lightest/sleekest route possible. My first knife was actually the BM 940-2 I fell in love with the thing. But sadly as any hobby goes you want more so I eventually moved up to something with a little more back bone (PM2) and god damn is it a beast of a knife (in pocket as well) which I can see why some people stay away from "bigger" folders. I now own a fixed G3 that I carry to work, that's perfect for any task given my profession as an electrician but yet every morning when I open my knife drawer I still grab for my 940 about 40% of the time.
I think that will all change though once my Benza shows up tomorrow hahah.

 

[GatorMedic]

If you truly want to have only one knife for the next decade or more, drive three hours to the big knife shop and handle everything that peaks your interest. Then make an informed decision based on YOUR likes and uses. A three hour drive is no big deal for something you are going to use as your only knife for a few decades in my opinion.

 

[Knives&Lint]

This thread, and namely marcus52AR's post, inspired me to pick up yet another Manix.

 

[onojoe]

I own all 3. The 940 is my favorite, but as you said, you should handle them all. All are great knives but how they feel to you is what is important.

As goldilocks would say

PM2... too long
Manix...Too wide
940...just right

 

[Ero2]

I think the, going with a lighter but still capable knife based on wearing basketball shorts a LOT when I'm not at the office makes sense. I also went to a knife store and held a Manix 2, a 940, and a Full Size Grip, so...I've tossed out the 940, just too small for my hands.

I gonna grab the Manix 2 LW, or a full size Ritter Griptillian. Taking out the fact that the grip may get discontinued, because I'm not collecting, but truly trying to find just one knife...any opinions between these 2 before I finally pull the trigger.

 

[KBA]

Which feels better in the hand? Which steel? The Manix 2 LW has a few different steel options. Not sure on the Grip.

 

[RevDevil]

One? One? Nope, gotta get them all. There is no such thing as one. Start with the Manix 2

 

[sharp_edge]

I don't like the aluminum handle of BM 940. The g10 or cf handle versions are beyond your budget, so I would go with PM2 or Manix 2. PM2 is always a safe choice, but Manix 2 is not a bad option either. It basically boils down whether you prefer the compression lock or ball bearing lock or lockback and the blade shape. Both have a bunch of steel options as well. I find the BB lock on Manix 2 often requires more strength to disengage, and frankly would choose Axis lock over it. In the end, I would choose PM2 among these three if I have to (BTW I have all three models), but again all of them are great folders.

 

[BD_01]

It's back to personal preference.

The Manix 2 LW is thinner, cheaper, and considerably lighter. IMO it will carry MUCH better in basketball shorts. If that's a priority for you, you have your answer. Pick one up in XHP or S90V.

If you can get past the Ritter Grip being heavier and fatter, it's probably a better all around knife (again IMO). That doesn't mean it's best for your intentions though.

 

[whp]

It's back to personal preference.

The Manix 2 LW is thinner, cheaper, and considerably lighter. IMO it will carry MUCH better in basketball shorts. If that's a priority for you, you have your answer. Pick one up in XHP or S90V.

If you can get past the Ritter Grip being heavier and fatter, it's probably a better all around knife (again IMO). That doesn't mean it's best for your intentions though.

Agree with this post, all points. I have the lw Manix 2 with xhp steel and the Ritter Grip with m390 steel. I would get both of those while you can. The Manix is a limited edition, and the Ritter has been discontinued.

 

[knoefz]

PM2 is hard to beat as an allround edc imho. Perfect size and weight. Many steels to suit your preference.

 

[Ero2]

The steel in the versions I'm looking at currently are CTS BD1, M390, and S30v...M390 wins I presume?

 

[KBA]

Of those depends on application I suppose. Id rather have M390 though Ive never seen it on a Manix 2. Maxamet may outshine it but it is not stainless.

The Grip has M390 I believe.

 

[aleforme]

As a fellow avid shorts wearing (mainly cargo shorts), I can't recommend the Manix or PM2. I've had both and still have the PM2. It's a great knife but rarely gets shorts time due to it's size and weight. Manix would be the same but even bulkier. If I'm not at work, I'm typically in shorts and heavier knives drive me crazy. With gym shorts, I go as light as possible and that's usually my old Native 1.

Of the 3, I would go the 940 route. If you're open to other knives, I would look at the ZT 0450CF, Native 5 Lightweight or Delica 4, Mini Grip or even a small CRK Sebenza if your budget allows. All of these are lighter, smaller knives with capable blades that will hold up just fine.

Again, nothing against the PM2 or Manix. They are both really good knives. But, given your needs and love of shorts, they just aren't the right "fit".

 

[Bill1170]

Between the Manix lightweight and the Ritter Griptilian, a lot comes down to pocket comfort versus in-hand comfort. The Manix LW is both lighter and flatter than the Grip, so it's good in pocket. They both have a nice feel in hand, edge to the Grip if you like bulbous hand-filling handles. The Manix grips well by having a tall handle (but not wide left to right) with plenty of texture.

Edited to add: if you are still on the fence, get the Ritter Grip while you still can. The Manix isn't going away anytime soon.