Case Knife Suggestions?

celticpride2133 · Mar 14, 2013

So I finally decided I want a case knife, now the issue is their seems to be so many types and names and sizes and they all kinda look the same! I need a suggestion for what one I should get! This will be my first one so I need your help and opinions on what knife would be a good first case! Thanks

Blade = roughly 3" and that all you get!

goodeyesniper · Mar 14, 2013

you can't go wrong with any of them. Do you have any preference in blade styles, handle materials, stainless or carbon steel? Also number of blades and springs?

the only one I have is the swayback jack, which is amazing. But the main blade is under 2.5 inches.

Actually I have a trapper, too. bought to give as a gift, then never gave it haha. but I also have never carried or used it. Also a fine knife, and a bit closer to your size specification.

I'd head on into the traditional subforum, look at the "what are you carrying" threads and get an idea of what speaks to you.

BOrrell · Mar 14, 2013

Bought a Trapperlock with clip and stud; have been carrying it, it is great! so I bought a Trapper slipjoint, haven't carried it yet but it appears to be a fine knife; have and have had other Case's, all good. I happen to prefer the Yellow Delrin but don't see how you can go wrong with any of them.

Ken44 · Mar 14, 2013

They make alot of knives !

Every hardware store here has a Case display. They more than likely do there too.
I would suggest you go to one and check them out to see what feels best to you.

The Case mini Trapper is a safe bet if you can't handle any. Get one with a CV blade.
If you want something a bit smaller the Chestnut Sway Back Jack with CV is hard to beat IMO.

mley1 · Mar 14, 2013

I like the full sized trappers and stockman. There is such a variety of bone colors, textures and materials for their grip scales. My favorites are stag and pocket worn green. Plus amber bone looks nice too. On the cheaper side of Cases line you could also try a Sodbuster. I agree with others on CV steel. It is nice, and easy to sharpen. CV will take on a nice patina too. But you do have to keep a light coat of oil on it or it will rust on you. I like using vegetable oil on mine as it's food safe.

cncpro11 · Mar 14, 2013

I have a swayback gent and a small texas toothpick.
They are a bit smaller than you prefer, but my traditional collection is quite young and that is all I have.
One thing I like about them is that the smaller knives disappear in your pocket.

hank_rearden · Mar 14, 2013

been collecting slip joints for some time now and i came to one conclusion (purely mine of course): the best configuration is the jack. two blades each with their own springs, each centered inside their own channels, pivoted on the same end of the knife.

Franciscomv · Mar 14, 2013

I'm not very fond of stainless steel Case knives, but I love their CV (carbon steel) ones. Out of the ones I've got, my chesnut bone swayback jack is probably the best one in the fit and finish department. The blade is shorter than 3", but still worth a look.

The trapper and stockman patterns are a good place to start if the swayback is too small. My favourites are the ones with amber bone handles and CV blades.