First Emerson

I guess I'll find out when I get my Journeyman. :D

Like I said, it didn't happen instantly for me. But the more I put them to use, they become an old friend. I particularly love to detail strip a well-used Emerson down, clean it in CLP, put it back together and touch a good-as-new edge on the 154cm - at that point I like it better than when brand new.
 
Excellent choice in maker. I love my Emerson's.. They aren't for everyone though. There is a break-in procedure to follow and keep them tight. You may have already read all about this, just know going in, follow and you'll end up with a buttery thing of beauty.

Lots of really great models out there. It really depends on what your EDC tasks are that will determine size, blade shape, etc. Or you could just buy what you think looks cool, nothing wrong with that. I'm a big fan of the 15 and Commander models. I also have a 7V I really enjoy. I just got a buddy a 8 for graduating the police academy. While making sure it was in order I may have fondled it a bit too long, because now I want one for myself. My Commander gets most of the carry b/c it was a gift from my wife, and the blade is just B.A.

Here was my carry today though:
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If you're looking for a smaller knife I would suggest the CQC 7A if you want a larger blade I would go with the Horseman.
 
They make a lot of blade shapes, pick one that you like the best, or what you think will provide you the best utility/defensive value.

I would recommend getting a V ground model like the CQC 7-V, commander or something like that.

A couple of people recommended the horsemen, that might be a really good choice.

Best of luck and be sure to show us what you decided on!
 
Here are some side-by-sides of the Manix 2 next to my Emersons, as well as some of the KAI-Emerson collaboration pieces.

Left to right: CQC-5K, CQC-6K, 0620, CQC-7AW, Mini-Commander, Horseman, Manix 2

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1268015_comparison1_closed_800x308.jpg


1268015_comparison1_length_800x415.jpg
 
While some have mentioned the Emerson/ZT collaborations, I have to say--if you wish to have an Emerson, go Emerson... not collab. I just returned the ZT 0630--it was beautifully made, but the tension on the lock bar was very light, and perhaps more importantly, the ergos/ balance were all off for me. The knife felt "front heavy" and the handle tapered at the end so much that I felt my purchase diminishing. That said, I'm sure it will make a fine knife for someone else.

Emersons are my favorite--the materials and the ergos/ balance work for my needs perfectly; I love the Emerson formula. I've never had a problem with fit and finish, but then again, all my Emersons have been 2013 and later. Yes, I got into them late, but now, they are all I care to carry... my SNG sees less and less pocket time. And... to take the place of the need for a new knife that the 0630 was to fulfill, I just received my new cqc-15. Love it for edc--pic of that to come. For now these (see below)--as for an edc recommendation... a full (regular) sized Commander. Can't go wrong.

Ubr Commander, Super 7, cqc-13
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and the SNG & the zt 0630
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Here are some side-by-sides of the Manix 2 next to my Emersons, as well as some of the KAI-Emerson collaboration pieces.

Left to right: CQC-5K, CQC-6K, 0620, CQC-7AW, Mini-Commander, Horseman, Manix 2

1268015_comparison1_open_800x448.jpg


1268015_comparison1_closed_800x308.jpg


1268015_comparison1_length_800x415.jpg

Thanks for throwing the Maix 2 in there for the size comparison helped out a lot!
 
Alright guys after reading all of your comments and suggestions I think I have decided on getting the classic CQC-7BW or mini. It was a tough choice but I feel like this would be a great first step into Emerson knives. I chose this b/c it is a proven design being around for so long and because I like the wave feature. Still really interested in the Commander and CQC-8 as well though, probably number two and three right there.
 
Alright guys after reading all of your comments and suggestions I think I have decided on getting the classic CQC-7BW or mini. It was a tough choice but I feel like this would be a great first step into Emerson knives. I chose this b/c it is a proven design being around for so long and because I like the wave feature. Still really interested in the Commander and CQC-8 as well though, probably number two and three right there.

Agree, you need all 3 :D
 
Alright guys after reading all of your comments and suggestions I think I have decided on getting the classic CQC-7BW or mini. It was a tough choice but I feel like this would be a great first step into Emerson knives. I chose this b/c it is a proven design being around for so long and because I like the wave feature. Still really interested in the Commander and CQC-8 as well though, probably number two and three right there.

Excellent choice! I wanted a CQC-7 about halfway through high school and all the way through college! The second I could afford one, I bought one. Don't be afraid to use that sucker - they can take it.
 
I have a cqc7 and a kershaw/emerson cqc8k. I will say this, even though its not completely "Emerson" the cqc8k is a very nice knife. Ive owned a commander, raven, and currently a cqc7. And to be perfectly honest, the 8k is my favorite. Its affordable and you wont worry about beating the hell out of it. I actually bought 2 more after I got the 8k in the mail bc i liked it so much.
 
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