do-everything edc knife?

mlanghornes

mlanghornes

Joined
Apr 24, 2009
Messages
798
Hey everyone, I'm on a quest for a do-everything edc knife. Now I know one knife can't actually do everything, but I want a knife that can do many things. This will be my principle edc. If I need a utility knife, this will be what I have with me. If there's an emergency and I need a cutting tool, this will be what I have with me. If I need to defend myself or others, this will be what I have with me. Because of these requirements, it must be sturdy, yet easy to carry. I'm not too worried about tactical capability, since that's a rare situation, and any sharp piece of metal would probably do the job, given the right training and attitude. I'm looking hard at the Blur in S30V, the Benchmade 930, 940, and 950. Any input about these knives, or any other suggestions? Price cap is $180, but cheaper is better (to a point).
 
ESEE DPx H.E.S.T. is kindof a multi-tool of fixed blades. You didn't specify fixed or folder so I'm just going to leave this here.

P9020088.jpg


Oh and its around 100 bucks give or take.
 
MarineAir beat me to it. The IDEAL do it all EDC is the HEST. Battoning, skinning, you name it. The flat grind in combo with the big belly makes for an extremely efficient slicer, yet the 3/16ths inch spine makes it plenty durable for abuse. Good tip, good belly, the best grip I've ever seen on a knife this small.
 
What he said, plus a bottle opener, pry bar, wirebreaker, and a small compartment between the scales.
 
mlang,

Out of the Benchmades you listed I'd probably go with the 950. The 930 and 940 are very nice knives, but more to the "Light EDC" end of the scale IMVHO.

Although the 950 has a great blade and grip shape, in the BM category I'd lean more towards the 520 Presidio or the Large Bone Collector as slightly heavier duty EDCs without an excessive amount of weight.

The blades on the 520 and LBC are both a bit more robust than the 950 and overall strike a good balance between weight, size and sturdiness.

However, I'd suggest an even better choice: The ZT 0350. Beastly strong, flat, good belly and thickness to the blade. I think it's the best thing going for an EDC that may see who knows what use.

Best,

Heekma
 
Personally, I'd take a look at the Vic Farmer. It's not any good for defense, but it's a great EDC.
 
For EDC...Paramilitary 2, or for lighter use the Caly 3.5. Both have my eye at the moment. Try to get to a brick-and-mortar store and get your hands on some of the knives you are considering. Simply handling a knife, inserting it into your pocket, taking it out, opening and closing it can really get you in touch with your preferences much more rapidly than a lot of "internet conjecture". It's fun too...good luck.
 
Just a suggestion: for decades several European armies issued their soldiers a Victorinox Soldier or Wenger SI. Both are sturdy and versatile knives, due to their size they are also easy to carry and they are still carried a lot.

In my EDC system, a SAK of some kind is always with me and added to that a second knife.

I agree with wmcbride that getting hands on experience with knives you like is the best way to find out what suits your needs best.
 
Anything "all purpose" or "do everything" is a compromise. Decide which features or uses are most important to you and choose accordingly. I carry a Spyderco Endura clipped IWB, a Leatherman Blast in a belt sheath, and some slip joint in my pocket. Today, it's a Buck stockman, yesterday a Vic SAK Farmer because I expected to need the saw. Any three of these would be well under your $180.
 
There are so many great knives in your price range that you could get. :eek:
 
Fixed blade recommendation (if you don't mind a hefty knife): Becker BK-2
Fixed blade recommendation (if you do mind a hefty knife): Becker BK-11
Folder (locking) recommendation: Ka-Bar Dozier
Folder (non-locking) recommendation: SAK (I like the Huntsman, but think the Farmer is most popular)
 
Let me add some clarification. I'm not looking for a multitool or fixed blade, as I personally find them too hard to carry every day. I also usually carry a sak as backup anyway, but I'm looking for a folder to use as my primary knife. Thanks for all the good responses so far, though.
 
mlanghornes said:
Hey everyone, I'm on a quest for a do-everything edc knife. Now I know one knife can't actually do everything, but I want a knife that can do many things. This will be my principle edc. If I need a utility knife, this will be what I have with me. If there's an emergency and I need a cutting tool, this will be what I have with me. If I need to defend myself or others, this will be what I have with me. Because of these requirements, it must be sturdy, yet easy to carry. I'm not too worried about tactical capability, since that's a rare situation, and any sharp piece of metal would probably do the job, given the right training and attitude. I'm looking hard at the Blur in S30V, the Benchmade 930, 940, and 950. Any input about these knives, or any other suggestions? Price cap is $180, but cheaper is better (to a point).
Click to expand...

mlanghornes said:
Let me add some clarification. I'm not looking for a multitool or fixed blade, as I personally find them too hard to carry every day. I also usually carry a sak as backup anyway, but I'm looking for a folder to use as my primary knife. Thanks for all the good responses so far, though.
Click to expand...

You need a stockman. Three different blades, each shaped for a different task.
Main blade - general cutting
Spey blade - portable scalpel
Sheepsfoot - starting a cut in the middle of a piece of cardboard, opening a box, etc.

The universal cool-tool.
 
Hi,

Knarfeng's suggestion is a very good one. A good Stockman with it's three blades is able to tackle anything you might face 99% of the time. And they are available in different sizes. From small 2 7/8" closed sizes to large models over 4" closed. With blade steels from 420HC to 1095 to D2.

Check some out. You might very well become hooked on them.

dalee
 
Most days I carry a Vic Farmer and a Cold Steel American Lawman. Today is a S60v Blur and a Vic Farmer

You could buy all three of these and still stay well under $180
 
Last edited:
heekma said:
mlang,

Out of the Benchmades you listed I'd probably go with the 950. The 930 and 940 are very nice knives, but more to the "Light EDC" end of the scale IMVHO.

Although the 950 has a great blade and grip shape, in the BM category I'd lean more towards the 520 Presidio or the Large Bone Collector as slightly heavier duty EDCs without an excessive amount of weight.

The blades on the 520 and LBC are both a bit more robust than the 950 and overall strike a good balance between weight, size and sturdiness.

However, I'd suggest an even better choice: The ZT 0350. Beastly strong, flat, good belly and thickness to the blade. I think it's the best thing going for an EDC that may see who knows what use.

Best,

Heekma
Click to expand...


Great minds do think alike! I have to figure your mind is great, because I know my mind is great, and I agree with everything you just posted!!:eek::)
 
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