Commander vs. Mini-Commander

Semper Fi

Semper Fi

Joined
Feb 23, 2002
Messages
2,634
Hi all.
I'm new to Emerson knives but like what I've read about them.
I am thinking of getting the Commander or Mini-Commander and would like an informed opinion from the forumites. The specs look very close and I especially want the wave feature. There seems to be a substantial price differential between the two. (with the mini being a little cheaper in price) I will use it for every day carry. What are your thoughts about the two knives? Or should I consider something else?

Thanks in advance for your help.

Semp --
 
The small difference in specifications is a fairly big difference in handling to me. I carry the Mini to the office but carry the Commander for most other occasions.
 

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Bob
Thanks for posting the picture. The 3.75 blade next to the 3.40 blade is a bigger difference than I expected.

As far as handling, do both knives function the same with the wave feature? Is one slower or faster than the other? I have big hands and now am wondering if the mini might be too small. I can see a difference in the handles too.

A couple more questions, do you prefer the Black T finish over the satin or does it matter? Serrated or not?

Thanks for your help.

Semp --
 
Bob

Good picture.

The size is small on picture, but it's amazing how much 1/4ish inch makes.

Due to the lighter blade on the mini, it's faster/easier to wave open (but "faster/easier" is relative, the regular Commander is a breeze).

Big hands may be a issue, if at all possible, try before you buy. If not, choose a dealer with a return policy if your not 100% pleased with the size. Blade Art and TAD are great choices, check with they.

The Retail (no one pays retail, but I'll use it as a ruler) on the full sized Commander is $220 and the Mini-c is $170. The mini-C is a bargin in my mind. I couldn't believe the price when I head it. You should be able to get a Mini-C for $130ish.

Finish. Personally, I like the HC Satin finish. I've found it almost impossible to oxidize, even here in Florida and it is very wear resistant. The Black-T is nice, but it is a more fragile finish. As I said before, my current job doesn't have me sneaking up on many Sentries in the dead of night, so a dull silver blade serves me well.

Serrated is nice for cutting/ripping fiberous material like rope, but a good sharp knife will do pretty much the same job. Again, personal preference.

My opinions only, good luck to ya.

John
 
Semper Fi: I would buy the Emerson regular size Commander. I own two of them and they are a perfect size, weight etc. Of course if you live in an area where legal concerns are deciding factor, maybe then a mini is better.

You can find the regular sized Commanders, on line, for about $150.00.
 
Jayharley

After considering everything, I've decided on the full size version. Kaintuck has concealed carry permits so carrying it on me shouldn't be a problem for the cops. Anyway, they would probably frown first about my Glock 21, I think. :)

Semp --
 
Semper Fi,

I think you will really like the Mini-C best. Its my favorite right now.

Mini is a misnomer in this case. It should be the slightly smaller commander :)

As John said its a real bargin at $130 ish.
Either way your going to be happy with it. Heck you know once you get the first one, your just going to buy the other one anyway.:)

Not trying to dissuade you from the full sized, youll end up with a mini anyhow!

Kyle
 
Ordered a Mini-Commander last week, expecting to receive it in 6 weeks or so.

For me, the choice was pretty simple. In PA where I live, I can carry anything that isn't a switchblade. However, I live close to the WV border, and can't exceed 3.5 inches when I am there. There are other states with 3.5 inch (or even 3 inch, which I why I own 2 Mini CQC7-A's) blade limits. I'd rather have a knife I can carry in more places than a knife with a 0.35 inch longer blade.

The wave opening feature was a big factor in the decision to buy one. When I ordered it, I told the person taking the order that if they ever make a Mini CQC7-A with a wave feature, I will buy one.
 
I also favor the mini Commander. It's not as small as you think. I kind of wish the mini Commander was smaller than it is. A lot of people look at it and consider it a large folder. I have five of them in different blade configurations and handle colors. (Green and black) Personally I like the satin finish blades the best. I carry a partially serrated satin finish model everyday.
The green handle models are the coolest. The guy on ebay has the green handles, satin finish, partially serrated models available for 99.95 I thought about purchasing another one. Green seems to be a little more difficult to find.
You cannot go wrong with the mini Commander. You should at least try one before buying the larger standard Commander. Most users are quite happy with the mini-C and for $99.95 you cannot go wrong.:D
 
After taking everyone's advice (and adding up the cash in my wallet) I went with the Mini-C. Just received it today and it is very nice! Feels larger that I thought it would. Satin combo blade opens in a flash! Haven't stuck myself yet either. :) I've got a feeling a full size version won't be too far off in the future. Between the khukuries, knives and guns, I'm just about busted! (But at least I'm well armed):) Besides, it's really a smart investment, right? :D
 
I carry my satin finish combo blade mini-Commander almost everyday. A mini-CQC8 would be the ultimate if it ever goes into production.:D
 
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