Caly 3.5 laminate/carbon fiber: worth the extra money?

S

Stiletto Raggio

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Jan 29, 2000
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546
The title pretty much says it all. I am looking to get my first Caly and have decided on the 3.5 out of a general preference for large knives and their respectively larger handles. There is about $40 difference between the base VG-10 model with G-10 handle and the ZDP-189 laminate model with carbon fiber handles. Is the upgrade worth it? My last 2 EDC were a Military and an Endura, if that makes a difference.
 
I would say the steel alone is worth it!! Yeah the CF is cool although Im carbon fibered out but the ZDP is just an amazing steel!! In my experience it holds a very sharp edge and lasts!! One of my fav steels!! Another sweet Caly is the Super Blue model! But they seem like they are getting rare! I have one and did an awesome patina on it!! For 40 bucks get the ZDP!!!
 
Worth the price for just the blade steel but I like CF better as well although the one on the Caly (somewhat smooth) is not as grippy as those on Sage 1, Domino or Bradley (textured).
 
I owned the standard and now own the CF version. I like them both, the upgrade is worth it if you appreciate ZDP and CF...that is up to you. You can view the G10 as the user/beater and the CF being the dressier version. I actually use my CF as I would the G10 and am happy with it. Love ZDP.

About the standard, it is a fine knife I just can't stockpile knives so I cut it lose as I own a couple Superblues and the ZDP. On its own though you will be very happy with what the VG10/G10 version has to offer also. It has its own advantages such as vastly superior grip and ease of sharpening.
 
I gave my ZDP Carbon Fibre version to a (really good) friend. Recently replaced it with the VG10 version and I tend to agree with the previous posts - the CF version feels a bit more special, the G10 a bit more utilitarian.

I'm perfectly happy with the VG10 G10 variant but YMMV...

Ben
 
It sounds like the steel really is impressive. I have never had a CF-handled knife before and I guess slickness is my main concern there.
 
If slickness is a concern, then go for the G10. I love my CF/ZDP Caly 3 for its aesthetics, superb ergonomics, and because mine is the pinnacle of production knife fit and finish.

If you want more practicality, go for the G10. I appreciate the laminated appearance of the ZDP and the fine edge, but in my opinion it is an inferior steel to VG10 simply because of the relative annoyance of sharpening/reprofiling. It isn't impossible, but it is not as enjoyable as VG10 and I personally doubt that the average user needs more performance than VG10 (there are exceptions, of course).
 
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