Help me choose

5K Qs said:
I own both, and think that both are splendid knives, but they are certainly very different. Tribal Lock is bigger than average, has a single Zulu spearpoint blade, is a lockback, and mine is stainless; SBJ is smaller than average, has wharncliffe and pen blades, is a slipjoint, and mine is carbon steel.
So which you choose probably depends more on your preferences than on my recommendation. I will say that I'm surprised how much I like the Tribal Lock pattern, given that my "default" preferences favor knives that are under 4", multi-bladed, carbon steel, and not lockbacks. Despite having all these strikes against it, I found that I like it A LOT. Go figure!
Obligatory photos:
View attachment 1184132

View attachment 1184133

- GT
Click to expand...
Nice pics, but they make it even harder to choose! Both are just so good looking.

Eli Chaps said:
From a size point of view, is the Mini Copperlock up for consideration? It's a fantastic, super easy to carry knife.

hL0oJDq.jpg
Click to expand...
That was also on my radar for a while, but ended up leaning toward the TL more for the blade profile.

Ace Rimmer said:
The Tribal Lock fits nicely in a polyester Buck 112 sheath and I think it makes a nice alternative to the 112 or even the 110 if you want something lighter and slimmer but with a similar length.
Click to expand...
That's good to hear, because I've been wanting a 112 for years now but thought the TL would suit me better due to my preference for carbon steels. This is making me lean toward the TL a little more, thanks.
 
Although I always like to check out different knife patterns and construction, and the Tribal Lock sounds intriguing, I'd have to go for the swayback.
 
solphilos said:
That's good to hear, because I've been wanting a 112 for years now but thought the TL would suit me better due to my preference for carbon steels. This is making me lean toward the TL a little more, thanks.
Click to expand...

I'm not trying to talk you out of a Tribal Lock but the 112 is available in 5160 carbon steel with your choice of a Clip or a Drop Point blade.
 
I own 8 CASEXX Tribal-lock knives. I have one arm and it is the best folder knife for me. Super smooth to open. When you are over 60 , you are going to wish you bought more of them. Easy to open and to fun to use. Great for young and old hands. A perfect first knife for that special youngster too.
 
The Swayback gent is one of the best patterns case has come just with in quite some time.

The bareheaded single blade gent is by far my favorite. If I were designing a custom knife is make it a tad bit bigger but there isn't much I can't do with it as is.
 
As others have said there's quite a difference between the two.
The swayback jack to my eye is one if the most aesthetically pleasing patterns around. As an everyday pocketknife you will be extremely satisfied carrying the swayback for almost anything that may come your way.
The tribal lock on the other hand falls into the category of what I would call "what if." Do you feel the need for a larger blade? I tend towards the Tribal because of the blade shape. I use mine for food as well as most of my everyday needs.
I'm sure I'm not the only one who says to get both, but that's not really the answer. It comes down to size and needs. I have both and enjoy both.
 
I would like to see both of them made in a 3.5” size. That being said, I prefer the size of the Gent in my pocket when I am wearing dress slacks, which is most work days for me.
 
I have a swayback gent, but found it too small for my liking and no longer carry it.
I'll likely end up selling it.

I don't have a tribal lock, but want one mostly because it's a Tony Bose design. These Case patterns are a step above their regular offerings IMO. I plan on getting one of all of his Case collaborations eventually.

And if you don't own a lockback, I wholeheartedly suggest you get one. They're great designs. :thumbsup:
I vote for the Tribal Lock.
 
I try to respond to each post individually to let everyone know their posts are appreciated, but I can't keep up and am afraid of forgetting someone. Thanks for the suggestions and input guys, its given me some things to consider :thumbsup:

I still really like both, but am leaning a bit more towards the Tribal. Its still a difficult choice because the Swayback is one of the most aesthetically pleasing knives I've ever seen, but I may hold off until I can find the jack.
 
solphilos said:
Good afternoon gentlemen, I once again need help choosing between two knives I have my eye on. I see these two knives quite a bit on the porch so I'm interested in opinions.
I'm looking at the Case Tribal Lock and the Swayback Jack. Both barehead designs with beautiful jigged bone and single blades.

The Swayback simply looks elegant, and I quite enjoy knives in this size. Its similar in proportions to my Barlow, which is my favorite carry.

On the other hand I've never owner a lock-back, and the Tribal Lock seems to be a great example of this type. The blade profile also just seems so darn versatile.

What say he friends, what would you choose, or if you own both what do you prefer?
Click to expand...
LOL!

The ONLY answer is--Buy BOTH!!!
 
solphilos said:
but I may hold off until I can find the jack.
Click to expand...
The jack is where it’s at, but you’re dependent upon the secondary market. When you find one you like at a price you like, you should grab it, for sure! The TS is available now in a variety of covers, and in stainless or CV.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top