HARPY/MERLIN ?'s

S

STAYSHARP

Joined
Nov 15, 2000
Messages
53
DOES ANYONE HAVE EITHER OF THESE KNIVES, AND IF SO HOW DO YOU LIKE IT? I'M STUCK BETWEEN THE ZYTEL OR G10 VERSION. I WOULD USE IT AT WORK TO CUT PLASTIC STRAPPING AND PLASTIC WRAP THAT THE SKIDS COME IN WRAPPED IN. I ALSO NEED TO FIND A GOOD DEALER TO BUY FROM. IF YOU HAVE ANY COMMENTS OR DEALERS TO SHARE LET ME KNOW.
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KEEP EM SHARP OR IT'S USELESS
 
I have had a Merlin for about a month or so... Real nice knife, great for cutting open boxes etc... I like the zytel a lot and find it provides a very nice light handle that allows the user to put a firm grasp on the knife...However if I was going to abuse this knife as a heavy work one I would probably go with the G-10 handle, it just seems stronger...Hope this is of some help.
 
Like I have said before, the Harpy/Merlin is such an excellent knife, it really doesn't matter what handle you get. I had carried a Merlin for about a year and gave it plenty to cut and it worked like a charm. The G-10 handle is lightweight and is strong, but I like the SS handle because of the considerable heft it adds. It should be more than sufficient to cut plastic straps and similar materials. As far as finding them, you can find them pretty easily and they aren't that expensive. It's up to you, but anyway you go, you can't go wrong!
Jazzman
 
I've used the Harpy/Merlin as a general utility/rescue/MBC piece, in all its variations, since Spyderco first came out with the SS Harpy. An outstanding little worker! If weight is a consideration, go with the Merlin. If you want robust, go with the G-10 if you can get one. The blade is a little thicker than the Merlin and the G-10 gives a nice no slip grip when wet. Hawkbill blade is very efficient.

Mike

[This message has been edited by Mike Sastre (edited 02-12-2001).]
 
Just wanted to add my two cents. Whereas it is difficult to find a plain-edged G10 Harpy, the Merlin is currently available in plain edge. The Harpy is tip down and the Merlin is tip up. The Merlin is lighter in weight, is a thinner carry, and has a reversible clip. The G10 Harpy has a thicker blade and IMO a more comfortable and sure grip. I do not own a SS Harpy--you have to ask Hannibal about that version.
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I've got a G-10 Harpy and I'm very impressed with it. This knife is more solid for its appearance, and more serious for its size, than any other knife I own. I got it for $50 shipped, and I consider it to be worth much more than that, and I've seen it for less on the for sale forum.

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Jason aka medusaoblongata
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"To give is a need, to receive is mercy." - Thus Spoke Zarathustra
 
Staysharp, after reading your original post more carefully I think you should consider the following factors as well. The plain-edged Merlin has merit: The rationale being that you will probably have heavy cutting demands everyday--thus, more frequent need to resharpen the blade. Others may disagree with me but IMO resharpening a plain-edged blade should be easier than a serrated one. On the other hand, those nylon straps can be slippery and should be easier to cut with a serrated-edge blade. Sorry, just adding to the confusion.
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THANKS FOR THE INFO, I'LL KEEP ALL THIS IN MIND. I THINK I WILL GO WITH THE SERRATED EDGE. THANKS TO ALL WHO RESPONDED....

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KEEP EM SHARP OR IT'S USELESS
 
I'd pack the Zytel Merlin anytime and would like to aquire the G-10 and SS Harpy.. They are simply AWESOME!!!
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Sam

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have spydies
will travel...
AKTI Member #A001148
 
I bought a G-10 Harpy a while back, and was delighted with it.I've handled Zytel and SS versions, and prefer the G-10.
I consider the Harpy to be the "little sister" to my Civilian.
By the way, Mike Sastre, who posted above in this thread, manufactures and markets an excellent necksheath for the Harpy. On my last overseas trip that Harpy was around my neck virtually 24/7, and you almost forget it's there, until needed.


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Check Six...
Dennis

 
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