First good edc folder

M390 is basically the same steel as 20cv or CTS-204p. They are all the same recipie just manufactured by different companies.

I don't know what it is about this family of stainless steels but for some reason the sharpen surprisingly easily for how well they hold an edge. Apparently it has to do with the fact that the steel doesn't tend to develop stubborn burrs.
 

If you get a benchmade buy one in person so you can inspect it for qc issues or ask one of the vendors here if they'll inspect it for you before shipping.

M390, 204p and 20cv differ slightly but are basically the same composition. Each company uses a different heat treatment on them. Benchmade does 20cv well. Also m4.

I do like spydercos better because they don't have wide spread qc issues, and they are mostly all slicers... tho every company has its issues.
 
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ZT/Kershaw: You’ll love it. Make sure to get the pocket clip you want and check its weight in your hand and carry spot. KAI has an excellent warranty and is an American product.

I have to throw CRK out there. It literally could be your last pocket knife. They’re workers, for sure and even if you have to save just a bit longer, you’ll be really happy you did.

Good luck and Haply Holidays!
 
HST said:
KAI has an excellent warranty and is an American product.
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Kai is the parent company of the two and it is Japanese. Zt is usa made products. Kershaw are 75% made in China and have some models usa made. But indeed they are in the USA and have a good warranty and have warranty service for even there Chinese made stuff in the USA.
 
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Brsutton86 said:
And now to research sharpening tools and techniques.....
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I would buy another cheaper knife to practice sharpening on. Don't practice with your new more expensive folder. Sounds like you already have cheaper pocket knives, so whatever works for you.
 
Looked up Benchmade dealers in Louisville, KY this morning because I had to make a delivery there. Find a knife shop 10 mins from my destination decide to stop in so I can handle some in person. The shop had blade forums tee shirts. I told him that was funny cause that's where I got my advice for the knife I wanted to buy. Come to find out he owns this forum. Small world. He had a mini barrage m390 which I came so close to buying. But he ordered a mini grip cv20 for me. He carries the spyderco sharpmaker in stock as well so ill probably bring it home with my knife when it comes in. Thought you all would enjoy that story.
 
I did enjoy the Story, Brsutton.... One Stop Knife Shop is my preferred dealer. Wish I was close enough so that I could drop in on Kevin from time to time, but I'm stuck with the ol' interwebs.

That Mini Grip will serve you well. I like the idea of practicing your sharpening technique on some cheaper blades while you perfect your methods. Even if you don't you'll be okay. The Sharpmaker is easy to master and I think you'll come to like it just fine.
 
Wow!! How cool was it running into Kevin!! B Brsutton86 !! Too cool!
You are going to love the Grip brother! Excellent knife with one of the best locks and action out there!
Sorry if I missed it, but which model did you get......which blade shape??
When you get the sharp maker, watch the enclosed DVD! Sal does a good job on it and it will definitely help you.
Good luck, but be warned........you’ll probably start looking for your next one very soon!!
Joe
 
Brsutton86 said:
Looked up Benchmade dealers in Louisville, KY this morning because I had to make a delivery there. Find a knife shop 10 mins from my destination decide to stop in so I can handle some in person. The shop had blade forums tee shirts. I told him that was funny cause that's where I got my advice for the knife I wanted to buy. Come to find out he owns this forum. Small world. He had a mini barrage m390 which I came so close to buying. But he ordered a mini grip cv20 for me. He carries the spyderco sharpmaker in stock as well so ill probably bring it home with my knife when it comes in. Thought you all would enjoy that story.
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That's awesome, what's the name of the shop? Do they have an online portal?
 
palonej said:
Wow!! How cool was it running into Kevin!! B Brsutton86 !! Too cool!
You are going to love the Grip brother! Excellent knife with one of the best locks and action out there!
Sorry if I missed it, but which model did you get......which blade shape??
When you get the sharp maker, watch the enclosed DVD! Sal does a good job on it and it will definitely help you.
Good luck, but be warned........you’ll probably start looking for your next one very soon!!
Joe
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Pretty crazy indeed how it worked out. I got a drop point with cv20. Bbk1 I believe was the model. It's the one with the grey g10 and blue spacers.
 
Brsutton86 said:
Looked up Benchmade dealers in Louisville, KY this morning because I had to make a delivery there. Find a knife shop 10 mins from my destination decide to stop in so I can handle some in person. The shop had blade forums tee shirts. I told him that was funny cause that's where I got my advice for the knife I wanted to buy. Come to find out he owns this forum. Small world. He had a mini barrage m390 which I came so close to buying. But he ordered a mini grip cv20 for me. He carries the spyderco sharpmaker in stock as well so ill probably bring it home with my knife when it comes in. Thought you all would enjoy that story.
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Of all the places and shops to visit, you managed to find the one we all support here. That's fantastic!
 
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