Can't decide between cf and g10 civilian for edc

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Perilous Truth

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May 20, 2001
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I am planning on trading for or purchasing a spyderco civilian, but I can't decide between carbon fiber or g10 scales. I know the cf looks better, but I am worried about it chipping or scuffing, or being too slippery. Does anyone have either of these knives in particular? if so I'd appreciate some discussion. (I'm going to get serrated since it is for edc, otherwise I would get plain and put it on display) Thanks guys.;)
 
You may be underestimating carbon fiber: it's very tough. It may be a bit more slippery when wet than G-10, but compensates with a generally agreed better appearance. However, I have the serrated G-10 version, and when I pull it out to show someone, all they seem to see or comment on is THE BLADE!!! G-10 costs a little less, too.
 
My civie is G-10 and I like it a lot. I do like Carbon Fiber and will be getting a knife with CF scales soon.
When people see the civvie all they do is :eek:

I carry it on duty as a back up knife attached to my body armor. My MT L-UDT is in the pocket for cutting use.
 
The CF is a lot more "slick" than the textured G10, but I don't see that as a liability in a knife that is strictly designed as a slasher. Your fingers are not going to slide up on it, since you are not thrusting with it.

Mine is CF and although it does not get alot of carry time, I can easily see it as a great back-up weapon for a LEO.
 
I personally think that the CF handled civie would be a good choice for a non-LEO if everyday carry is an important factor. It looks less tactical--if that's possible with this knife--than the G-10 version. The smoother handle surface means less wear on your pocket and allows for easier insertions and extractions. Some people report that the G-10 causes skin abrasions if the knife is carried IWB next to your bare skin. I also personally feel that the CF version has a nicer balance and more comfortable grip than the G-10 version. Oh, and did I mention that I think this is the prettiest knife that Spyderco makes.

If I needed a large hawkbill for EDC, I would prefer to carry the Matriarch. Compared with the Civilian it's lighter in weight and easier on the pocketbook if it gets lost or broken. It is only slightly smaller than the civie. If I didn't need a large hawkbill, my choice would be a plain-edged Merlin--strong enough for utility work, lightweight, inexpensive. Harpies? Don't get me started on them. My personal favorite is the PE Merlin--try it out; it may be all the knife you need.

Edited for spelling.
 
My choice would be the G-10. I really like the texture of the G-10, and it will grip when the handles get wet. I'm sure the CF is tough, but in my opinion the G-10 is tougher.
 
It might be worthwhile to think about the things that could get a knife handle wet during a knife fight.

Yes, it could be raining, particularly if you live near me. So, plain old water.

You could slash a guy in the groin area. That could get you blood thinned by urine. Other slashes could produce only blood. Blood is fairly slippery stuff. Just play around with some raw steak for awhile, or buy a couple living chickens or rabbits and butcher them yourself.

The right slash could produce vomit which would project onto your knife hand. I haven't handled any more than obviously necessary, but think puke could be fairly slick.

Of course, the potential that diarhhea (sp?) could happen to you or your opponent and that could get onto your knife hand, exists. Up around the face, there is saliva and snot. And puke. And blood. And eyeball fluid.

For me, self defense knives should have the maximum traction available in the grip. Losing your knife in the middle of a knife fight probably means you die. Pure and simple.
 
i too personally prefer the matriarch for the price, heck i think you can still get them for about $60, or less - but to answer your q', i would definitly get the CF - much better looking/harder wearing/just as'grippy' as G10 any ol' day.....


sifu
 
I just bought a g10 serrated right hand model. I decided that I wanted the extra grip, i figure if I every do use it, I may need the extra traction, I still want a plain edge cf for display though. Anyone got one for trade? im all out of cash !:eek:
 
Quite the choice in scale material. . . Both are very durable and functional.

Personally. . .my pick would be carbon fiber. Love the look and feel ! :D

Besides, (and seriously) how many time have you guys and gals actually used your existing blades in a "real knife altercation ?"

If you're so concerned with the grip characteristics of CF and G10 ~ ya need to go out and buy some duct tape along with your knife. Having your knife or knives securely duct taped in your hands will relieve all doubt of it leaving your hand(s) as you're slicing and dicing your opponent(s) !

Only problem ~ trying to get your gun out with your hands tightly bound with duct tape ! ;)
 
I have both and, aside from the greater friction of the G10 surface, can't feel much difference in balance, stiffness, etc.. Because of the handle shape, I think either would stay in your hand pretty well, with a slight advantage to the G10.

With regard to plain vs. serrated, I've seen the CF in both but I don't think you can presently get the G10 in plain edge.

As for the Matriarch, I heard that Spyderco had to bump the price and I think the new ones are more than $60.
 
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