Help me choose my first custom >>

patrickb

patrickb

Joined
Dec 29, 2003
Messages
339
I've finally decided to pick up my first custom. I own a handful of production folders, Benchmade 770 CF, Spyderco Calypso and Kershaw Chive & Leek and two William Henry's, a Kestrel and Monarch in CF.

I read a post the other day that said something like (paraphrasing), "don't wake up one morning and realize that you've spent enough on production folders to get a really nice custom". Boy did that hit home. I really like all my folders, especially the William Henry's, but to be honest, I could take 'em or leave 'em.

So, rather than buy another production folder (almost bought a MT LCC, but it was a bit big), I've narrowed it down to the following models/makers. Some of my choices are based on what's available at the custom reseller's sites. I don't want to wait 6+ months so I've been perusing the 'For Sale' forums and the retailers (knifeart, bladeart, etc.).

- Lightfoot Max Velocity or 458 Mag
- Charles Marlowe Slimline or Bulldog
- JW Smith
- Aaron Frederick
- Tom Anderson

I'm looking for a tactical folder with CF scales/handles, titanium bolsters (i'd settle for stainless bolsters), liner lock, a sub 3.5" blade and blade shape can vary.

The Lightfoot seems to be leading the list, but I'd love to hear some feedback from those who own knives from the above makers. I'm sure I've missed some makers that have great offerings that meet my needs, feel free to offer a suggestion or two.

-patrick
 
Any of the makers you mention will get you a great custom.
You might want to check out D.B Fraley and Mike Erie.They have what you are seeking also.
Randy
 
All are very good makers. I find it best to give them a call first and allow a little creative license. That will bring out the results you seek!
 
I can only recommend JW Smith, which is the only knife I have in your list. In my opinion, one of the best makers out there bar non, and I find his tacticals very fairly priced.
 
Mike Obenauf's work is still a great value, high quality as well.
 
Based on your parameters, you can't really go wrong, as noted.

Interestingly enough, out of this group, only Tom Anderson and Greg Lightooft make their own clips (although I see Marlowe has been making a few). Marlowe, Smith and Frederick use the standard Benchmade clip.

I find that the Benchmade clips have a "numbing" effect on those knives - reducing their overall appearance. Kit Carson and Mike Obenauf also use BM clips. This must be a Kentucky thing (Nebraska notwithstanding).

From the group you selected, Tom makes the nicest clips, but I personally perfer Greg's blade grinds.

I have gravitated toward makers that integrate their clip designs with the overall design of the knife (or at least try). I would consider Larry Davidson as a candidate. He is not taking orders, but you will find one of his floating around for sale every now and then. Bob Terzuola has really perfected his clip designs. Although you will pay a premium for Bob's stuff from a dealer, they are pretty affordable on the secondary market - and there are literally tons of his folders with carbon fiber scales out there.
 
I love JW Smith's works. He was considered as one of the best knife makers in the world; there was an article about it sometimes ago. The rest of your list are also excellent knife makers.

FYI, Aaron Frederick is JW smith's son in law, so you'll see some similarities in their design.
 
I just bought my first custom, and before buying I considered many different makers, ultimately deciding on going with an Allen Elishewitz Silver Fox Flipper.

Very smooth operation, great finish, and extremely sharp blade. I think it compares favorably with with the names on your list who also make some beautiful knives.

I'm not sure how far you are from NYC, but there will be a Custom Knife show taking place the first week in March and I believe some of the makers on your list will be in attendance.

Good luck!
 
I don't think you could make a mistake with any of the makers on your list. My last custom folder was from JW, IMO he's as good as they get.
 
Well, I decided on the Lightfoot Max Velocity. I ordered yesterday and it'll be here this morning. I figured when spending this kind of money on a knife, what's another $30 in overnight shipping :)

Thanks for all the feedback guys. I'll be sure to post some pictures when it arrives.
 
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