Custom folder help

G

gbaker

Joined
Sep 20, 2005
Messages
297
I never owned a custom and hope to get one ordered sometime thisyear or next. Intend to take my time because I doubt I’ll ever get more than one. My current main interest is in the Rick Hinderer XM-18 or Flame Generation two, or a Ralph Darrell gunhammer, or a RJ Martin contender.

The RJ Martin contender concerns me because the raised overlay on the handle appears like it would be rough on pants pockets or would easily catch on the pockets. Comments on this would be appreciated.

I was wondering if any similar folder makers could be suggested.

Preference is a folder with 3 to 3.5 inch blade, drop point preferred but definitely NO tanto, like recurve but not a must have, prefer a wave over a flipper, I like finger grips and a choir (sp?), lock not sure. Also a maker who is willing to redo the handle a few years after original purchase, with a different material, would be a plus.

Knifemakers suggestions would be welcome as well. Thanks
 
After buying three custom fixed blades, I am only going to buy fine production knives from now on. The reason is there is no cutting difference between the two. The good production knives are more than sufficient in my opinion. Now if you desire a special design & can't find it in a production model... I would say go for it! The custom makers do not have a leg up on cutting performance only in knife design do they shine! Just my opinion.:thumbup: The folders are no exception in my opinion.:thumbup:
 
Hey Pogo,
So your saying that a custom knife from a Mastersmith will not cut any better than a production knife?

This time I'll get the popcorn ready!
 
I cannot see how you could be into knives enough to warrant spending the extra money for a custom knife,and are planning only to get one.The knifemakers are artists and craftsmen,and each has thier own style,and characteristics.If you got yourself one nice folder,you could handle it,carry it,use it,and then you could go look at all the others you may like,and think about what you are missing.Does this make any sense.I think that you are only kidding yourself when you say that you are only going to buy one.You will have to make this journey on your own,good luck.
 
All the knives you mentioned are excellent!! You cannot go wrong! You CAN get the XM-18 in a 3 inch blade.
 
I don't think that the overlays on RJ Martin's folders cause any problems with the pants pockets, but I guess that it's an individual thing.

Something like customs being "worth it". I guess that you live in a generic house made outta "ticky-tacky"--after all, it'll keep you dry. What kind of car do you drive? Any one of 'em will get you where you wanna go.

:rolleyes: :D
 
Rick Hinderer's knives are awesome. His edges are on par with Spyderco NIB, which to me is really the tops with its balance of hair popping sharpness and bite. Not all custom knives will please, so caveat emptor. If you're looking just for pure performance, I agree that certain productions will suffice in the category of pocket knives. Except for folding prybars. I think Striders (semi-custom) have a leg up, altho' Manix supporters will say that they're equal.

Customs - you get them because of the designs/materials, a known person's handiwork that goes into it and simply because you can get them.
 
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