Chinook vs Paramilitary vs Persion

Unfortunately, it depends a little bit. The compression locks, it seem, can be a bit sticky at times, but one that works well is one smoooth operator. The lock on the ATR is to me pretty much the lock Nirvana: Integral compression lock doesn't get better than that. Again some people have reported that they pinch themselves unlocking it. I have never really gotten to like the bladeshape of the ATR. Maybe I will change my mind, but sofar I am still hoping they will come out with a new knife that uses the integral compression lock (and hopefull has a Ti handle aswell...and a leaf blade.... :cool:, I can dream, can't I... ;) )
 
I have all three and you can't go wrong with any of them. Here are a few of my impressions:

The Chinook II was designed with self-defense in mind, but is also useful for a variety other tasks. It has the strongest lock of the 3 knives. It's a tank. It has a 4-position clip.

The Paramilitary is in my mind the most practical and useful knife of the 3 and the flat ground leaf shaped blade is great for slicing. The compression lock, however, is kind of a love it or hate it thing. Some find it difficult to operate. It works great for me, and I believe it is very reliable. The Para is the lightest of the 3 knives.

The Persian is beautiful. If looks mean a lot to you, it might be the way to go. The removable clip is right hand tip up only. Although the smooth micarta scales are not as grippy as the G-10 on the other 2, the ergonomic shape of the handle makes it feel very secure. The Persian construction is traditional pin and bolsters, so it lacks an adjustable pivot.

All 3 knives are well made and the steel used (S30V and VG-10) is excellent.
 
personally i would with the chinook, I own one and really like it. it has good locked position and handle, is easy to sharpen yet it holds the edge. Also the tip lasts.
 
well, I well tell you that for axis style flippablility, my benchmade 940 is leaps and bounds ahead of the compression lock. It is also a little better than other benchmades i have handled (520 and a tanto grip specifically). This said, once it is worn in it is easier enough. It takes a much more precise ammount of force, and more careful lock depression/release timing. It is very easy to not engauge the dent section (there is a cutout in the blade where the lock fits and holds in place instead of a ball detent) causing the blade to bounce back out.

That being said, I got my para on monday of this week and I am already decent at it.

Especially for the right hand, I find it a great compromise. I carry an axis because it excells for the small chores, flip it out cut and its gone, in most public instances, the knife is in my pocket before someone realizes I used a knife to cut something...which will make ppl go wtf but not get upset or threatened. However, ergonomics and a blades ability to cut are usually lower on a benchmade. I would say spyderco designs everthing else better...unless you want a pretty knife. The comp lock is easy enough and puts you behind the wheel of a good knife.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top