Emerson CQC13 or CQC16?? Heavy duty folder for the trail and big EDC

[MTHall720]

I want a large heavy folder both for EDC (I like big) and for walking along some trails.
Are both of these Bowie type blades? The 13 a little longer than the 16?

I know Zero about Emersons so appreciate any thoughts.

 

[Siggyhk]

I've never handled a 16, but I think the 13 is just about the perfect folder design. I'm not fond of liner-locks, but everything else is great. Handle is very secure and comfortable, and the blade is useful and pointy. I always like clip-points, and this one appeals to me alot.
I think the 16 may have a slightly stronger tip, but they should be pretty close. I would assume that it, like the majority of Emersons, has a great feel to the handle aswell. I believe the 16 has a very similar handle design as the Comander, which is good.
I'd say get the one you think looks better. The locks are the same, the handles should both fit you similarly well, both have a clip-point, ect..

 

[Bryan J]

I would say the CQC-13 holds the edge for general purpose use. You can really make great use of the fine, clip point tip. But for self defense, I'd give the CQC-16 a slight advantage. But I'm really splitting hairs here as they're both great knives. It may even come down to ergonomics. I like the feel of both, but you may prefer one handle style more than the other.

 

[Kaizen1]

Unfortunately I don't know much about the 16 outside of what can be seen on pictures. The 13 is one of my favorite Emerson designs. I don't know how they compare at the tip, but I believe one of our members here did some testing with the 13 and found the tip to be relatively durable. Many folks in this forum in particular are leery about the security of liner locks. Statistically however, there doesn't appear to be much complaints about liner lock failure, at least not in recent years. I trust Emerson and Spyderco with their liner locks.

 

[Bryan J]

[video=youtube;woG2l1FWI3Q]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=woG2l1FWI3Q[/video]

 

[marcinek]

Planning on some close quarter combat while on the trails?

 

[longbow]

Well can't believe I am saying this but get a hold of a Meyerco Catch Dog if you can. You want a thick heavy duty blade that has stout liners and is easy to sharpen and stays sharp, this is the folder. Never ever thought I would recommend such a knife myself. But have been edc'ing one for a couple of weeks and have to to tell ya this knife is the real deal. Sharpens easily, stays sharp when it is sharpened and the lock up is superb. It is almost a full 3/16" at the spine and the spine continues pretty much all the way to the drop point. Tapers about a half inch back of the point. Build quality is pretty darn good too. Anyways for the 35 bucks I paid for it I am way more than impressed with it. I think it would make a great trail folder myself. Nice stout point too. keepem sharp

 

[Hammer27]

The CQC-16 is a Commander handle with a bowie style blade. I've had both and think you'll be fine with either. Choose off which fits your hand best.

 

[Esav Benyamin]

The 13 was designed as a tactical, that is, a utility knife. The 16 was designed as a skinner. Bowie/clip points are good general purpose designs in either case. Get the one that appeals to you esthetically.