folder - what to look for

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bukijin

Joined
Nov 4, 2002
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Hi there. I'm new to this forum and I apologize if this topic has been done to death... I want to buy a good folder - by that I mean good quality steel in the blade, a reliable locking mechanism (!), strong axle - basically rugged. I want to carry it all the time so I'm looking for about a 3inch blade length.

Rather than just telling me brand names, I'd like to know what I should look for in a good folder. Why is there such a large price difference between knives and are they worth it ??

(by the way, I'm in Japan so it may be difficult to find a specific knife here). Thanks.
 
Originally posted by bukijin
I want to buy a good folder - by that I mean good quality steel in the blade, a reliable locking mechanism (!), strong axle - basically rugged. I want to carry it all the time so I'm looking for about a 3inch blade length.
Click to expand...

Benchmade and Spyderco come to mind. I'm a Benchmade man myself. :D

Quality Steel: VG-10, 154CM, or D2 are great steels.
Reliable lock: I love the AXIS lock! Spyderco makes strong locks, but I prefer the AXIS.
Rugged: Can't really go wrong with a lightweight model spyderco or G10 of either brand.

I think you need a Benchmade 705. :D
 
How I select a folder

I first make sure it fits nicely into my hand and is confortable.

I visually inspect the knife for discolorations or problems in the fit and finish. I look srait down it lengthwise when it is both open and closed to make sure it is not warped or the blade is off-centered. I make sure the pieces line up and are firmly attatched and that all moving parts are in order, especially the lock. I also make sure there are no cracks or stains in the blade or handle materials.

I open and close the knife to test the lock. I do it very slowly and delibratly at first then I will open it at a more natural speed and then very quickly (if it is good manners, some merchants dont want you giving it a hard crack). I look for consistancy in lock up, and if it jams at any point. I hold the handle and the back-spine of the blade firmly in either hand and test to see if it has any wobble in any direction when it is opened and locked.

I look to see if the blade steel is designated on the blade and if not I will ask the clerk. Each steel has different advantages and disadvantages and I do research here to determine what steels will best siut my needs before I start shopping.

Other things I consider are the blade geometry, is it good at cutting, stabbing, chopping ect. I also check to see if I like the look of it, or if its looks are apropriate to those I will be around everyday....or if I even care about that;) I consider if it has a clip (if it is strong, might tear up my pants etc.) or if I will need to get a sheath for it.

I dont worry too much about the edge sharpness in the store because I know I am gonna sharpen her up as soon as I get to my house.

I will say that there are some very good knives that can be gotten at very reasonable prices. But you can definately feel and see the difference in the higher priced brands due to the better quality control and most often better materials. Once you have spent over 100 bucks on a knife it is hard finding anything considerably cheaper that will satisfy you. I think you can find some Japanese brands in particular that make good folders that are a great value for the price.



I almost forgot...Welcome to Bladeforums!:D

Hope this helps a bit....I am sure I prob missed some other important aspect.
 
No brands now, that's cheating. bukijin did ask preferably no brand names.:D

3,5 inch blade. Liner lock or frame lock for EDC. Lock-back for field use. No blade play. A metal blade that can cut, easy to sharpen and maintains edge reasonably. Preferably synthetic scales or wood if in field. Must be able to cut.hehehehehehe;)
 
basicly the same as what TheSkinwalkeR said except the fact that blade finish was left out, do you want a mirror polish? black powdewrcoat? beadbasted? something else to think on...


:D
 
Thanks a lot for those replies especially TheSkinwalkeR. Looks like I have a little research to do.
The laws here are pretty liberal when it comes to carrying knives. I've seen a lot of great knives here including traditional styles (also their cooking and fish knives are pretty awesome) but a folder is the most practical in Tokyo.
 
I look for fit and feel...good tight fit.. no blade wooble..high quality steel, good fit and finish.

And for me a Plain Edge..
 
Now that all the "what to look for" stuff is out of the way, go ahead a buy a FRN Spyderco Delica with the VG-10 steel.
 
Mate, As a first knife suggest you go simple &
dependable. No fancy gee whiz locks or steels.
Just simple......

Since you are in Japan look for a well made lockback with Aus-8 steel in about a 3" blade
flat ground. Just keep it simple and make sure
you like the feel of the knife more than what it
looks like. Remember, looks don't cut nothin. good
steel in a well made knife does.

good luck mate.
 
Thanks everyone for their advice. I looked at Spyderco delica and benchmades (couldn't find that exact model here though). The spyderco was excellent and very reasonable at 6000 yen.
BUT I made the mistake (?!) of trying an emerson mini commander. I tried not to buy it but couldn't ! Black, plain blade and cost an outrageous 25000 yen here. Guess I'm turning into a knife nut like you guys.

Next is a fixed blade. I looked at the SOG government officer (? here it's called a government boy !!) and the spyderco bob lum tanto. Both were pretty awesome - but that will have to wait for next payday.
 
It appears like you may just have a "little" knifenut in you!;) :) I don't own a Commander, mini or otherwise, but have read enough to know that you have done good. Welcome to the world of the knife!
 
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