Centofante models

[James Y]

Recently read the article in Tactical Knives on these knives, and was wondering how they stack up. In particular, does it work for general use, despite the lack of belly, or is it designed as more of a weapon?
I like the flat grind, but being flat grind, long, narrow tip, and ATS-34 steel, is the blade brittle or tough enough for simple utility?
I like the idea of the securelock. It seems like a sleek package, but I'm still leaning towards getting a Viele for regular use. Any comments welcome.
Jim

 

[Dennis Wright]

When you stop by the store to check out the Viele, you can check out the Centofante too. I just got some in. I may have some Starmates by the time you get there too.

Dennis

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Isn't it amazing how 2 cents worth of opinion takes up a quarter's worth of paper???

wrightknife@ixpres.com

 

[David Rock]

I read that TK article too. I'm no expert in knife combatives, but I don't regard the Centofantes as good defensive knives, in spite of what Van Cook says. I think you would want more curvature to the edge if you plan on slashing your attacker, and if you plan on stabbing you risk having your hand slide forward onto the blade.

I want to get one of the smaller Centofantes, in plain edge, but not for defensive applications. I'm a big fan of flat ground blades and fine points. I think this will be a great knife for precision cutting, where brute strenghth and a thrust-safe handle are not all that important.

"Just one man's opinion, but look how smart he is!"

David Rock

 

[Brian Lavin]

I got to handle one of the new Centofantes at Dennis' store last week and was really surprised at the size; somehow I had mentally pictured it as a smaller knife. I also liked the secondary lock. This gives you the ease of closing of a liner lock with the added security of the slide lock. This knife reminded me of the BM "Spike", but somehow I liked this one better.

 

[Corduroy]

I haven't read the article, but this knife is no weapon. Firstly, Spyderco isn't a company that makes weapons - with one special exception, geared towards defense. Secondly, the knife has no guard to prevent your hand slipping onto the blade and very little belly to slash with. Like the Benchmade Spike, it would make a decent shank but a lousy fighter - but I'm sure that wasn't Spyderco or Mr. Centofante's intent. Also, the small hole partly covered by the back scale precludes the rapid "drop" opening method, despite the clip orientation.

I've frequently heard folks say this knife "cuts like a laser." It's blade grind isn't well-suited for heavy duty, especially in a relatively brittle steel like ATS-34, but it is ideal for more "gentlemanly" tasks. Spyderco has said that the knife may be released in 440V.

Compared to the Viele:
I think both have grips that make thrusting unwise but are fine for utility. Both have small holes and are unwise to open with the "drop," though carried tip-down. The Centofante is in a better steel in terms of edge-holding, but the Viele blade is probably slightly more robust. I don't know which size Centofante you are looking at, but the Viele may be heavier than either - I can't find its weight listed, but it's quite beefy. The Viele is one classy knife, very attractive and suitable for dressing up. I personally find rough G-10 very utilitarian, but the Centofantes almost make it look good. I think the SecureLock is a moot point, because Spydercos are well-fitted and won't close on you without it.

Its a tough call. Either one's a fine knife. I'd get a Centofante, but that's only because I've spent a lot more time with Vieles and always lean towards the less familiar knife

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-Corduroy
(Why else would a bear want a pocket?)

 

[Sal Glesser]

I don't think that either Frank Centofante or Howard Viele were thinking "Martial Bladecraft" when designing these models.

Both of these custom knifemakers have "Knifemaker's Knifemaker" status. Their designs are funtional, more to the eye of the collector and in that, they are very pleasing. Very well made, good action and comfort are their forte. We find them challenging to build to their standards.

In all collaboraations designs, the designers have their own reasons for the particular designs. They are all different and that is why we began doing this in '88. We wanted to provide that variety and beauty (which my own designs do not capture in the same way).

The Keating and Ayoob collaborations have more "martial" use in mind and that is evident in the designs, and also demonstrate differences in styles.

I still maintain that any "sharp pointy thing" can be used in a defensive situation. Training requires diffeent tools. One of those new little spare tires work in a "pinch. Better than no spare, though perhaps not as effective as the standard tire designed for the vehicle.
More thoughts to banter.
sal