First Midtech/Custom

[amg137]

Hey guys! So I'm likely going to be leaving my graduate program and getting a job in January or February of next year, and I want to pick out a midtech or lower priced custom folder to celebrate the occasion when it happens (pretty much any job I get in my field will result in more than doubling my current salary). I realize this may appear to be a "counting your chickens before they hatch" situation, but having my sights set on a shiny new knife should be a big motivator for me to get my thesis written quickly. Not to mention having a knife-related goal will make it easier for me to save up some cash which I can dip into should the job search drag on longer than planned.

So for those of you that have a lot of experience collecting midtechs and customs, what do you recommend? Absolute price maximum is $1000, though $500-800 would be preferred.

Preferences (not requirements, just things I like)
3.25-4.25" blades
3-6 oz weight
Liner and frame locks
High corrosion resistance stainless
Flippers
CF or Titanium Scales
Wharnie or drop point blade shape
Narrow blades (think BM 710 or Boker Kwaiken)

Dealbreakers:
Blade play of any kind (especially if fixing it isn't covered for free under warranty)
Flippers that don't flip
Super thick blade stock (Medford or Direware)
>8oz weight
Compound grinds (also prefer no recurves)
Closed books (or wait periods longer than 2-3 months)
Makers that have "diva" or unsavory reputations
Pocket jewelry that I'll be afraid to use (gem/gold inlays, polished blades, think the fancier William Henry models)
Frame/liner locks without carbidized lock faces or lockbar inserts

I realize that's a pretty specific list, thank you all in advance for your assistance!

 

[OBL]

Shirogorov or curtis f3

 

[amg137]

Shirogorov or curtis f3

I love Shirogorovs, they're definitely on my short list. It seems like it can be a bit of a pain to get your hands on them here in the states, but I can always watch the secondary market. For some reason the F3 just doesn't do it for me design-wise, couldn't tell you why. Maybe it's the spanto tip, but then I don't really like his wharnies either.

I'm also thinking about a Southard AVO. They're pretty understated though, I think for my first midtech or custom I might want to go for something a little more dramatic/eye-catching.

 

[Sonnydaze]

Congrats a bit ahead of time on "getting out." It will be fun for you to be able to once again read a fiction novel. I remember.
Here is your quote: "I'm also thinking about a Southard AVO. They're pretty understated though, I think for my first midtech or custom I might want to go for something a little more dramatic/eye-catching."

Some of the AVO dimensions are:
grip thkness: 0.460"
blade thkness: 0.140"
0.024" behind the edge
3.33" blade (tip to grip)
4.5" grip length


These have been pretty available in the Exchange, which is where I bought mine. $500 is about the going price.
I am carrying this knife for a week now, and my several-year Zaan is back in the safe. I have been thru lots of fine folders, up thru various customs and Hinderer XM-18's.
This AVO is a great knife...very similar to the Spyderco (collab) Brad Southard flipper...except that the AVO is "just right" in the hand. Not as long as a Zaan or large Sebbie; much slimmer grip than the Spyderco Southard (0.460" vs 0.520"), and a 0.140" blade spine (as is Zaan).
I'm not really a flipper person, but this one (manual on bearings) just works, smooth as silk, and is unobtrusive. The choil is also designed so as to allow you to "get up" on the blade without cutting your fore-finger...unlike many flippers. Here is also a pic to show that the flipper is helpful and NOT obtrusive as some are...and supports your index finger when you need close-up work.
And yes, I was magically nicked immediately with my first manipulation of the very sharp slicing blade. Had no clue until I saw blood. This one is MINE.
I actually describe my AVO as "graceful." And, it is. It does not appear aggressive at all, and doesn't scare the ladies. I reco it very highly.
Don

 

[DAVE_M]

I might want to go for something a little more dramatic/eye-catching.

How 'bout a Debt Collector?

 

[Scurvy092]

I would keep an eye out for something from Chuck Gedraitis that's he posts here in the makers for sale place. His quality is great and his prices are reasonable.

There aren't many makers who have open lists with 2-3 month wait times.