Good ZT Alternative? Need some recommendations on "overbuilt" folders for less

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Navyblu

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Jan 11, 2013
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What if I had a craving for a beefy, overbuilt folder? But one that didn't carry the price tag that a manufacturer like ZT carries? My mind automatically goes to the Utilitac, but I was wondering if there were any others out there. I know that I'll eventually get around to buying the real thing, but for now I wanna spend less.
Many thanks, have a good one :thumbup:
 
To narrow the responses, what ZT model did you have in mind and how much do you want to spend?
 
RamZar said:
To narrow the responses, what ZT model did you have in mind and how much do you want to spend?
Click to expand...
I shouldve added more info in the original post. My apologies.
Something with a 0350 feel, but I was mostly looking for anything built like a tank, simply for less money. Somewhere in the $50 range (or less).
 
BM Adamas.

Hogue EX-02.

Spyderco Manix2 XL.

I presume you're looking for a big folder...since that's all you've given us to generate suggestions. At the price point you've got, I'd say CS Recon 1.

^^^Those came to mind immediately.
 
Check out the Cold Steel Tuff-Lite Series with blade lengths of 2"-2.5" of AUS-8A for under $50!

My Tuff-Lite 20LT with a 2.5" blade was about $30!
 
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This is the only "economical" rough-duty folder that I own...and it's a good one. You can shop for good prices...as low as about $70.
It's very smooth; very tough. I've had three NIB and gifted two to friends.

Kershaw Junkyard Dog 2.2 Manual Knife w/ Composite Blade 1725CB
 
Hands down the Böker Resurrection Gen 2

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Kershaw Knockout. It's been called the "poor man's ZT" by many fans and reviewers.

Cold Steel Recon 1 or American Lawman.

And I can't say enough about the Utilitac II. The round-handled, drop point version is as close as you're gonna get to an 0350 for around 30 bucks.
 
Unfortunately quality materials costs money. If it didn't every company would be making knives with S30V, G10, and in the USA. I'd say get a blem from Kershawguy or save your bills. I don't think you'll be able to get a US made knife with S30V for $50 unless it's a user.
 
The 0350 blems used to be a good deal, but now $95 is hardly economical, nor worth it when $10 more can get one with a warranty.

The Junkyard Dog is pretty awesome. I've been meaning to pick one up.
 
Best I have used for the money, thus far is the Kershaw JYD 2.
Has been an excellent addition to my collection.
Big beefy solid as a rock.
Not to mention the CPM D2 edge holding capabilities.
 
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