Emerson Super Commander BT or Zero Tolerance 0300 BW?

J

Johann Trollip

Joined
Oct 31, 2013
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38
Hi guys. I want to ask the guru's to assist with my choice. I want to buy either the Emerson Super Commander BT or Zero Tolerance 0300 BW. It will be a EDC blade that will cut any and everything. I love the 4" blade of the Emerson and the stonewashed look of the ZT (wish I could combine the 2 :D ).

I cant' figure out how to post a freakin pic in this post, but you know what they look like, I'm sure.

Thanks a bunch.
 
Both big and heavy, in my eyes it is an assisted opener versus wave decision for you to make.
 
Big Red,

Thanks for the comment. I am partial to the wave opener, although that is not my concern. I have read a few complaints about Emerson's durability. There were some for ZT as well, but it seemed less to me.

Your thoughts?
 
If your looking to work the knife depend on it and go to it no matter the condition even after it's in the muck packed with snow or other... Then pick up an Emerson. Since I picked one up and started thumping it I've come to realize it's ability to perform under any conditions.
 
The zt0300 is a beast. That'd be my choice.
 
The two knives are pretty much equal in terms of function and strength, so, in my opinion, you should consider other factors to help you make your decision.

How much blade do you really need?

The larger a knife is, the more real estate it takes up in your pocket.

The Emerson is not as wide as the ZT, but it is longer. For me, a wide knife is more awkward than a long one, because I have other stuff in the same pocket, and I have to reach past that chunk of metal (I also like a blade that holds itself firmly closed :rolleyes:).

The way I figure it, the best folder in the world is useless if it's awkward to carry, so how it stores is just as important as how it cuts.

There are legal questions, and... "acceptability issues", also. Knife laws often leave plenty of room for interpretation, so a 4" blade folder, even in the hands of Mister Rogers, could be reason for the friendly officer to start writing tickets.

Keep that in mind....
 
300bw for sure. It's a beast of a knife. Had to many issues with Emerson to recommend them anymore. Lock slip, stripped liners, etc. ZT I've had zero. Lol
 
The super commander is an awesome blade I've owned a few....that being said the Zt 0300 is probably the stoutest folding knife I have ever owned. I've had striders and other "hard use knives" , but the 0300 really is in a league of its own . Compared to the super commander you get a rock solid frame lock vs a hit or miss linerlock, excellent f&f on the Zt where is the Emerson is gonna be hit and miss. The 0300 has s30v steel and a regular v edge vs Emersons 154cm with a v ground chisel edge. I love Emerson knives I do I've owned almost all the knives in the lineup, but for the money the zt is in a league of its own. Its a big heavy beefy knife, but it will handle anything you can throw at it and cone back for more..
 
Without a second thought, the Super Commander. However, a preference for Emersons is something you have to develop. Once you do though, you can't get enough.

I have both ZTs and Emersons, and they all work great. Ergos favor the Emerson, materials go to ZT. As far as serviceability and ruggedness, I'd pick the Emerson.
 
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Thanks guys, I'm now more confused. :confused:

In a nutshell it seems both are hard workers and the determining factor will be either brand-loyalty or aesthetics.

I always wanted a Commander since it came out. Currently my EDC is a Cold Steel large Espada, so I am comfortable with big blades. In fact I reckon bigger is always better. :cool:

I however started leaning towards ZT after reading the forums and when this stonewashed look came out it just spoke to me. I first wanted the ZT 0560BW but the size of the blade on the 0300BW just looks stronger overall.

Anyho, I will keep on over thinking this until D-day.
 
I might be a bit late, but here's my opinion. Both companies put out a good product. I think that ZT has a bit of an edge when it comes to materials, fit and finish and some extra features. Plus they all have a proper edge bevel sharpened on both sides, which is much better for precision cutting than Emerson's chisel edge.

With the ZT 0300 you get a titanium framelock (with the Hinderer lock stop), S30V blade, nicely machined handle. And it costs LESS than the Super Commander which has a 154CM blade (not bad at all, I just think S30V is better) and plain G-10 handle. The chisel edge might or might not bother you, I've got to regrind Emersons to be happy with them. Both will be plenty strong.

IMHO, the 0300 gives you more for less money.
 
Hi Francis,

It's never too late :)

The Commander however does not have a chisel grind but a "V"-grind. Most of the other models have the chisel grinds.

I agree on the quality of fittings on the ZT.

Thanks for the input.
 
Johann Trollip said:
Hi Francis,

It's never too late :)

The Commander however does not have a chisel grind but a "V"-grind. Most of the other models have the chisel grinds.

I agree on the quality of fittings on the ZT.

Thanks for the input.
Click to expand...

Not exactly.

All Emerson knives have a chisel edge, and depending on the model, have either chisel ground or V ground main bevels.

My personal preference would be the Super Commander mainly because it has a flat profile and I am able to carry it for 10 - 12 hrs. at a time.
The one on top.
ADC81319-11A5-4E0A-8AEC-CC6A0399B160-1506-00000262779D1A86_zps40ae03f1.jpg
 
Johann Trollip said:
Hi guys. I want to ask the guru's to assist with my choice. I want to buy either the Emerson Super Commander BT or Zero Tolerance 0300 BW. It will be a EDC blade that will cut any and everything. I love the 4" blade of the Emerson and the stonewashed look of the ZT (wish I could combine the 2 :D ).

I cant' figure out how to post a freakin pic in this post, but you know what they look like, I'm sure.

Thanks a bunch.
Click to expand...

There are arguments for each but the Commander design was/is a legit SEAL knife so that would be my choice. I own several Emerson's and I really wish that I had a Super Commander.
 
Personally, I would much sooner buy the ZT because it's cheaper in most places (by about $30), has better steel (S30V compared to 154CM), looks better IMO, will have Kershaw's customer service, and with the ramp on the blade, you should still be able to wave it. I do that all the time with my 0200 and it works flawlessly.

0300 all the way!
 
I would say get the ZT, but it depends on how you like assisted knives. I really hate the fact that it is assisted but the titanium blackwash finish is so nice. You could always buy the Super Commander and send it out to be pimped, but then you are also moving up in price range.
 
Emerson.

remember fit and finish always prettier on a zt. Keep that in mind if pretty is important to ya. Both will perform well....neither will let ya down.

looks wise the commander beats the 0300 zt imho. Ergos I give to emerson. Ymmv...but that is mine.
 
Johann Trollip said:
Hi Francis,

It's never too late :)

The Commander however does not have a chisel grind but a "V"-grind. Most of the other models have the chisel grinds.

I agree on the quality of fittings on the ZT.

Thanks for the input.
Click to expand...

The main blade grind is a "V" grind, but it still has a chisel edge. That might or might not be a big deal to you. In my personal experience, it hinders precision cutting. I tried it and didn't like it, I reground my Emerson Persian to a wicked convex edge (symmetrical, not chisel) and LOVE it. But I know that any Emerson I buy will need to be sent to be reground (added expense on an already pricey knife) or do it myself.
 
Thanks guys. At this rate I think I should buy both and carry one every other day :o , but then I won't be able to get the fixed blade I want to get as well; The Winkler II Belt knife. Now don't get me started on that one :D
 
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