Freeman Outdoor 451 Flipper or Spartan Blades Pallas

[McCleaven]

Hey guys,

I've always been a huge fan of plunge lock/button locks, but it seems like the only maker that made them non-auto was hogue, and I never liked the handle or blade designs. Now, within the last month, I've seen two plunge lock flippers come out of the works. First, the freeman 451 flipper and the Spartan Blades Pallas. Does anyone here have a review of either of them? Or have both? Any input will be greatly appreciated. Price isn't really a factor, as in not sure the purchase will be soon, but I want to get some opinions. Thanks!

Steven

 

[matus]

Please buy both and let us know

Seriously - I have briefly had the Freeman 451 flipper and it is amazingly well done (for half the price of a Sebenza). Very strong blade, very smooth to flip and lock was 100%. But I can not comment how well it stands use and abuse. I loved how it felt in hand (much better than a sebenza). The F&F left nothing to be desired. The detent that kept the blade closed could have been a little stronger for my taste, but at the same time it was the first flipper I have ever handled, so do not put too much weight int that. I returned it as it is a serious working knife and I did not have use for it. I still miss it (and keep looking for an excuse to buy one). I can hardly imagine someone being disappointed by it.

EDIT: Plus the Freeman is made out of proper steel (disclaimer - I have a lot of respect for D2 and its Japanese equivalent - SKD)

 

[Redhills]

I'm not familiar with the 451 so I can't do a comparison. For that matter, my Pallas arrived just yesterday so I don't feel qualified to do a full review. But I can make a few comments. First, I like it. It is the biggest folder I own and it feels good in the hand. It is very solid; fingers have plenty of handle to grip (I don't have large hands).

The action is very smooth. Possibly too smooth. I found almost by accident that I can open it without touching either the thumb studs or the flipper. Just flipping my wrist in the right way will open the knife. I have to check state laws to see if I can still legally carry it, given that. I might be able to tighten it up a bit.

The blade is perfectly centered, solid lock-up. It opens very easily with either thumb stud or flipper.

Have you seen the paper cutting test that virtuovice does on his YouTube channel? Most people slice paper in a straight line. He does that, but also uses a wavy cut. I have never been able to get a knife sharp enough to duplicate that wavy cut. The Pallas almost does it out-of-the-box. It snags in the back-cut part of the wave but that may be due to my lack of experience. Just mean to say, it came pretty sharp.

 

[goldie]

I saw 2 vidoes on youtube,both very favorable. Im interested in the 451 as well, just wish the blade was stonewashed not ceracoted.I emailed him about trying to get one without the coating on blade and scales,but he feels they would corrode or rust. Ive never had an issue with d2 or hardened aluminum.If you googe freeman 451 you can see the 2 videos and a review from a magazine as well.