CAMPING POCKET KNIFE

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Aug 4, 2013
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I've been looking for a larger pocket folder as a back up for my fixed blade. Going up Mt. Whitney for a week. Camping, hiking, fishing... And all related activities.
Help me choose between the Blade HQ Exclusive Spyderco Military 2 CTS 204P and Zero Tolerance 0308 in 20CV. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Stay safe.
 
If you can find a Spartan Harsey Folder on the secondary, it would be a good contender as well based on what you described.

And as a CRK fan boy, I of course have to suggest an Inkosi or Umnumzaan, but those climb out of the price range you've listed here.
 
Millie for me. Much lighter and no bearings (or that dumb hole in the scale near the pivot) to get full of fish guts and the like

If you're looking for a fixed blade replacement, the overbuilt 0308 is probably better, but as a companion to the fixed blade, the Military is the play.
 
Millie for me. Much lighter and no bearings (or that dumb hole in the scale near the pivot) to get full of fish guts and the like

If you're looking for a fixed blade replacement, the overbuilt 0308 is probably better, but as a companion to the fixed blade, the Military is the play.

I second this, but will also suggest a Stretch 2 or Stretch 2 XL by Spyderco as alternatives. Very similar in size and profile to the Military, but a bit lighter and has a lockback. They are readily available in SPY27, H2, and K390 from most dealers.

My Stretch 2 in K390 is my go-to heavy use folder when size and weight are concerns.
 
Something you can get dirty without loss of function ( bearings and springs collect dirt and get gritty quick ).

Spyderco, Emerson, Buck and Cold steel make excellent dirt / water / grime proof options.

The cold steel recon full size can be battoned if need be 😂.

Out of the two choices you mentioned, I’d go for the spyderco if camping, or actually cutting things.

The ZT for everything besides camping ( dirty / gritty bearings piss me off ).

IMG_1873.jpeg

The military model cuts far better than most folders I’ve tried, including that ZT
 
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I have done the Mt. Whitney summit trip several times, and my advice is go as light as possible. Most of the terrain is at or above treeline, no fires allowed except backpacking stoves, and the trail is very steep and rugged.

I would not recommend taking a large heavy fixed blade or an axe/hatchet.

For the Mt. Whitney journey a medium size Victorinox folder like the Hiker is ideal, and for a fixed blade a lightweight Mora Companion or Mora Bushcraft is ideal.

Good luck and have fun.
 
Something you can get dirty without loss of function ( bearings and springs collect dirt and get gritty quick ).

Spyderco, Emerson, Buck and Cold steel make excellent dirt / water / grime proof options.

The cold steel recon full size can be battoned if need be 😂.

Out of the two choices you mentioned, I’d go for the spyderco if camping, or actually cutting things.

The ZT for everything besides camping ( dirty / gritty bearings piss me off ).

View attachment 3207958

The military model cuts far better than most folders I’ve tried, including that ZT
Your doggo’s face is classic!!
 
I've been looking for a larger pocket folder as a back up for my fixed blade. Going up Mt. Whitney for a week. Camping, hiking, fishing... And all related activities.
Help me choose between the Blade HQ Exclusive Spyderco Military 2 CTS 204P and Zero Tolerance 0308 in 20CV. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Stay safe.
All good options given so far, I’d go with Military between the two you mentioned!
We brought a White River Backpacker Pro, Rock Jumper, And Manix 2. Be safe and have fun!IMG_1044.jpegIMG_1087.jpegIMG_1185.jpegIMG_1056.jpegIMG_3199.jpegIMG_1153.jpegIMG_3201.jpegIMG_1156.jpeg
 
Not to sway the conversation too much, but have you tried the S35VN variant RAT-1. Is it worth the price increase?
It's a double upgrade. G10 handle. S35VN blade steel.
No longer a "budget" knife, but, IMO, the basic design by Jeff Radall and Mike Perrin is excellent and it is enhanced by the improved performance of the upgraded materials of construction.

htC4SSm.jpg
 
Since you're bringing a fixed blade, I'd go for the Spyderco (of the two knives mentioned). Meanwhile, from down here in flatland (our tallest spot of land is 4,973 feet), enjoy the trip and stay safe.
 
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