- Joined
- Jan 2, 2014
- Messages
- 342
I wanted to post this thread for those getting into the knife addiction. There are models of knives that are exciting at any price point but most folks who are unsure of whether or not they want to get into knives often don't want to make a huge investment up front. Most folks also generally have an idea of what they interested in style-wise and are looking for something specific. The purpose of this thread. What would you recommend to those thinking about getting into knives as a hobby in the following 4 categories. Has to be under $50.
1. Modern/Tactical folder
2. Traditional Folder
3. Fixed blade
4. Multitool
My recommendations for those thinking about getting into knives is as follows
1. Modern/ Tactical folder - Buck Vantage select - around $30. Great one handed opening and closing. Buck 420HC is inexpensive and well executed. This is a great entry piece and gives you ideas about features you like that more expensive knives might do better. Has a thumb hole and a flipper so your exposed to two different kinds of opening mechanisms. Swappable low carry pocket clip, adjustable torks screws, and knife can be taken apart. Zytel is pretty resilient.
2. Traditional - Opinel No.8 - great blade geomtry, very simple, and the locking ring works. It kind of blows me away how well the lock ring works. It's so simple, all it does is prevent the knife from opening or closing depending on if the knife is deployed or not. But it works, they nailed it. This is also a great example of the importance of edge geometry and how it effects cutting performance, it's a no frills flat grind that works.
3. Fixed Blade - I could say Mora's here but I won't. I'll name the Kershaw Diskin Hunter for around $45. Sandvik 14c28n is a fantastic steel and looking at that thin handle of g10 you wouldn't think it would feel as good ergonomically as it does, but it feels amazing in hand. Being a hunter I personally wouldn't recommend this for batoning or chopping and would keep it to light woodwork, food prep, or (duh) hunting.
4. Multitool - Leatherman wingman for around $30. Definately gives you an idea of what Leatherman is all about. I feel that leatherman nails the pliars on their multitools. I also find for myself that I use the pliars when I carry it almost as much as the blades. Charge Tti and Wave are much nicer tools with more options but this gives you the feel of the nicer tools for less than half the price. (Note: I gave these away to my groomsman when I got married as they were my wingmen that day. Get it)
So let the community know, what are knives in each category you feel would grab those new to the hobby and keep them with it?
1. Modern/Tactical folder
2. Traditional Folder
3. Fixed blade
4. Multitool
My recommendations for those thinking about getting into knives is as follows
1. Modern/ Tactical folder - Buck Vantage select - around $30. Great one handed opening and closing. Buck 420HC is inexpensive and well executed. This is a great entry piece and gives you ideas about features you like that more expensive knives might do better. Has a thumb hole and a flipper so your exposed to two different kinds of opening mechanisms. Swappable low carry pocket clip, adjustable torks screws, and knife can be taken apart. Zytel is pretty resilient.
2. Traditional - Opinel No.8 - great blade geomtry, very simple, and the locking ring works. It kind of blows me away how well the lock ring works. It's so simple, all it does is prevent the knife from opening or closing depending on if the knife is deployed or not. But it works, they nailed it. This is also a great example of the importance of edge geometry and how it effects cutting performance, it's a no frills flat grind that works.
3. Fixed Blade - I could say Mora's here but I won't. I'll name the Kershaw Diskin Hunter for around $45. Sandvik 14c28n is a fantastic steel and looking at that thin handle of g10 you wouldn't think it would feel as good ergonomically as it does, but it feels amazing in hand. Being a hunter I personally wouldn't recommend this for batoning or chopping and would keep it to light woodwork, food prep, or (duh) hunting.
4. Multitool - Leatherman wingman for around $30. Definately gives you an idea of what Leatherman is all about. I feel that leatherman nails the pliars on their multitools. I also find for myself that I use the pliars when I carry it almost as much as the blades. Charge Tti and Wave are much nicer tools with more options but this gives you the feel of the nicer tools for less than half the price. (Note: I gave these away to my groomsman when I got married as they were my wingmen that day. Get it)
So let the community know, what are knives in each category you feel would grab those new to the hobby and keep them with it?
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