Commander info needed

[L.O. Little]

First, some history. In the past, I carried a BM Stryker for several years. After that, I carried a Sebenza for about 18 months. July of this year, I discovered Striders. I now am the proud owner of a DB, BT-SS, and a AR. The AR has been my EDC since the day I rec’d it, August 1. I’ll probably buy a SnG next year. The AR will be remain my EDC. I mean no offense to you Emerson guys when I say that.

Now, my dilemma. Every once in a while, I need a knife that’s a bit more PC than my AR. Based on the opinions of Nyeti, a fellow forumnite that I respect, I think an Emerson Commander might fill my needs. Now, I have questions.

1. Are both sides of the blade sharpened at the same angle? I realize it’s not chisel cut. BTW, I use an Edge Pro Apex.

2. From the FAQ on the Emerson site, it seems like it’s OK to field strip a Commander for cleaning, etc. Is this true? Are there any special procedures involved?

3. Where might I find a (new, 2002 model) "waveless" Commander for a good price? I’m not entirely comfortable with the wave feature…

 

[Commanderfan]

I think I can answer question number one with some pictures.

The blade is V ground but the sharpened edge is chisel ground.

First the sharpened side:

now the opposite side:

I would follow the sharpening advice on the Emerson site. I use a regular kitchen knife sharpener such as the one shown on a regular basis. For a blade in fairly good shape it keeps the edge really sharp.

Question #2. I haven't needed to take mine apart yet but I understand it is very easy.

Question #3. My understanding is that all Commanders come with a wave unless you buy one of the special editions from Emerson.

 

[Crayola]

Lynn,

It is my understanding that you do not need to use the wave. The wave only works if you draw the knife into the corner of your pocket so it can catch the pocket lip as the blade is pulled from your pants. If you just pull straight out and not up and back, then the wave won't engage. Of course if you still don't want the wave and you want a Commander, you could remove the wave. Careful use of a grinder, or a dremel and a bit of sandpaper could remove the wave and clean up the area nicely. There may be someone here even who could do the mods for you.

 

[DANJ]

I have a commander and pretty much up until now never ever used the wave. I really didn't understand how it worked and i couldn't get it down. The wave does not hamper your conventional draw in the least bit.
It took some time but i just got really good with the wave, now it is the only way i deploy this knife. I am really awsome with the reverse icepick grip from my weakside. I suggest you do not buy the commander without the wave. You may just decide that you really like it.

 

[Derek]

Hi Lynn,

Just to make it clear, the non-waved Commanders are the older style. I think we did them back in 2000. We do still have a few but I wanted you to know they are not a new item.

"1. Are both sides of the blade sharpened at the same angle? I realize it’s not chisel cut. BTW, I use an Edge Pro Apex."

Only one side of the blade is sharpened at all. The other side is simply stropped after a burr is raised on the "sharpened" side. Even though it is not a true chisel grind, you will sharpen it pretty much like one.

I like to use a Sharpie to color in the sharpened bevel so that I can see where I am removing metal from the edge. Since your Edge-Pro is infinitely adjustable, you should be able to do a good job with it. I don't know how well it will follow the recurved edge though. Havn't used one.

"2. From the FAQ on the Emerson site, it seems like it’s OK to field strip a Commander for cleaning, etc. Is this true? Are there any special procedures involved?"

Yes, you may dissasemble the knife for cleaning at anytime WITHOUT voiding our warantee. As a matter of fact, we encourage regular upkeep.

It is really straight forward. If I can do it, anyone can. I just recommend that you pay attention to how it comes apart.

"3. Where might I find a (new, 2002 model) "waveless" Commander for a good price? I’m not entirely comfortable with the wave feature…"

Can't be of any help on the first part . While we have released a few (5-6) to one particular dealer for a special order, we have all of the rest.

I think that you should give the Wave a try. If any percentage of the reason you are carrying the knife is rescue or defense, it is absolutely with out a doubt, the fastest way to deploy a folding knife that there is...period. Learning a non-wave opening with the Commander is easily accomplished.

I hope this helps you out some.

 

[L.O. Little]

Thanks, Derek. That about covers it all.