Good traditional folder for ~$25?

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I'm new to knives but the sickness is spreading quickly :) I just have 5 decent modern folders and a couple fixed blades. Initially I was against traditional folders, but I've learned to respect my roots. I'm thinking about getting my first traditional folder and I need some recommends. Only requirements is that the blade is 2.5-3" long, and the price is right around $25 (Or cheaper is fine). Thanks!!!!
 
I'd recommend the Case Sodbuster Jr. You can pick one up from Lowe's for ~$18 and it's 3 5/8" closed. Nice strong spring, basic handles that you won't mind scratching up.
adam
 
One of the new Brown Stag Colts would fit the bill, most can be had for under $20 shipped on the 'bay. And better quality overall than the Rough Riders.

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If its your first slipjoint and you want to stay under 25 bucks, I can't believe I'm saying this :D, but you might look at the Rough Riders. They make a lot of different patterns, and can be had a lot cheaper than 25 dollars. Do a search on the big auction site... There aren't a lot of choices for new knives in the price range you are looking at.

They are made overseas, but a lot of people on here have bought them and the reviews are actually good for the price.
 
My best recomendation is for you to go onto eBay and look at old Schrade USA knives. Get an 8OT or 34OT. They go for less than $25 all the time. I've gotten them for less than that alot. So that is my suggestion.
 
One of the new Brown Stag Colts would fit the bill, most can be had for under $20 shipped on the 'bay. And better quality overall than the Rough Riders.

Thanks for the input! I should have mentioned I would prefer a single blade though
 
If its your first slipjoint and you want to stay under 25 bucks, I can't believe I'm saying this :D, but you might look at the Rough Riders. They make a lot of different patterns, and can be had a lot cheaper than 25 dollars. Do a search on the big auction site... There aren't a lot of choices for new knives in the price range you are looking at.

They are made overseas, but a lot of people on here have bought them and the reviews are actually good for the price.

my mind is blown as to how many different designs there are!
 
My best recomendation is for you to go onto eBay and look at old Schrade USA knives. Get an 8OT or 34OT. They go for less than $25 all the time. I've gotten them for less than that alot. So that is my suggestion.

I might have to go with Schrade...my first ever pocket knife my dad gave me was a Schrade Old Timer. I was really young, never used it, and ended up losing it...now I feel really bad because not only was it of sentimental value, it was a pretty cool knife that I could have actually appreciated now :(
 
Hi,

I can second the Rough Riders. They are available in a wide variety of patterns. I don't have a Colt myself, but you can trust Absintheur's assessment.

A third possibility from auction sites, pawn shops, and such might be a lightly used older slippie. It might have some staining and discoloring, and might show some sharpening. But if you have a little patience you can get some US Schrade's or Camillus' knives for around that or a bit less.

Dale
 
If you're looking for a good single blade slippie for under $25, the 1st thing that comes to mind is a Sodbuster. Either Case's with CV blade steel or a Queen Country Cousin with D2. Both are under $25 & would make an excellent 1st time single blade slippie.
 
+1 vote for the Soddies!

A Soddie from Case or Queen won't let you down! I've also heard that boker's heat treatment on their 440c, though I haven't had one myself, makes it an excellent performer. From personal experience on case and queen I can comment that they are great, but the next slippie I'll buy will be from Boker.
 
I might have to go with Schrade...my first ever pocket knife my dad gave me was a Schrade Old Timer. I was really young, never used it, and ended up losing it...now I feel really bad because not only was it of sentimental value, it was a pretty cool knife that I could have actually appreciated now :(

I wasn't sure if you wanted to spend a little time lookin for a good pre-owned knife or not. If thats the case, as already mentioned, you can find a good old US made Schrade for reasonable $$$.
Their 1095 steel is almost legendary. They take a great edge, and are well made....

Not sure if you already know this or not, but Schrade went out of business in 04. There are still new knives being sold that carry the name, but are made overseas and from what I've heard ( I could never force myself to buy one), the quality is definitely not on the same level as the REAL Schrades.

If single blades are what you are looking for, the 12OT is a great one.
Here is one I picked up some time ago.
DSC00841-1.jpg
 
I would suggest a rough rider toothpick or case sodbuster. I own a couple of each and really like them both. Make sure to let us know what you decide. We love pictures!
 
I wasn't sure if you wanted to spend a little time lookin for a good pre-owned knife or not. If thats the case, as already mentioned, you can find a good old US made Schrade for reasonable $$$.
Their 1095 steel is almost legendary. They take a great edge, and are well made....

Not sure if you already know this or not, but Schrade went out of business in 04. There are still new knives being sold that carry the name, but are made overseas and from what I've heard ( I could never force myself to buy one), the quality is definitely not on the same level as the REAL Schrades.

If single blades are what you are looking for, the 12OT is a great one.
Here is one I picked up some time ago.
DSC00841-1.jpg

I had no idea that Schrade was out of business...as you can tell I'm a knife newb. Gotta start somewhere though right? And by the way, that may be the exact knife my dad gave me. If I can find it that would be a prime choice. How can I tell if it's a real Schrade though?
 
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They are still perrty easy to find... IMHO , its a great size.

Yes Schrade and Camillus are both gone. Very sad :(. They were around for many years.

As far as being a newb, ask all the questions you want. There are many very knowledgeable folks here to help you out.
We all started at one time, and I know I'm still learning
 
I will echo what several other people have said and recommend either a Case Sodbuster in CV or a Queen Country Cousin in D2. If you like stainless blades, Lowes carries the Case Sodbuster SS (black) for $18 ... saw a bunch at the local Lowes yesterday. There is nothing fancy about pattern, but it is one of my favorites. In fact, I've got a CV Sobuster in my pocket right now.
 
I had no idea that Schrade was out of business...as you can tell I'm a knife newb. Gotta start somewhere though right? And by the way, that may be the exact knife my dad gave me. If I can find it that would be a prime choice. How can I tell if it's a real Schrade though?

Just make sure the seller states that it was made in the U.S. and that it's marked on the blade tang. Good luck in the hunt. Old Timers are great knives to be sure.
 
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