Help me pick a new knife

T

timbo813

Joined
Jun 24, 2014
Messages
231
I just got $155 in gift cards to amazon and I am considering buying one or more new knives. I'd like some suggestions for knives to buy. Some background on what I have and like is below.

Other than junk knives, I have:
Delica 4 in ZDP-189 plain edge
Spyderco Salt 1 serrated
Buck 110
SAK Alox Pioneer
Several Mora knives

I normally carry either the delica or the salt1. I like them both a lot but I would prefer a deeper carry clip. I also think finger choils might be nice. I've been impressed with the spyderco models but I'm not opposed to trying something different. I also don't have a high quality fixed blade. I'm interested in them but I don't know much I'd really use one. I'm thinking something like an esee 4 or equivalent might be nice. Whatever I get I'd like it to be decent steel. Doesn't have to be top of the line but definitely not junk. Please give me some suggestions. Maybe some folders 3-3.5" with a deep carry clip and some 3.5-4.5" fixed blades that are tough. The fixed blades would probably be used for camping duties and skinning deer or hogs. I'm not crazy about the funky looking tacticool stuff that doesn't add anything to the functionality.

Thanks

Edit: I see the bark river gunny is available on amazon. How would that compare to the esee? I wish I could hold some of these before I decide but nobody around here carries them.
 
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For a folder at that price point I'd look seriously at a Sage 1 or PM2. The Sage 1 is a very refined folder IMO. Smooth action, light carbon fiber, S30V goodness, and a nice deep-carry wire clip that is almost invisible. The PM2 is... well, a PM2. 'Nuff said.

For a fixed I like the ESEE-4. It's a no-nonsense fixed blade that just the right size for use in the field.
 
I recommend the Spyderco Caly 3.5. It has a deep carry clip and a 3.5 inch blade. It has a thin, ergonomic handle similar to the Delica. It is only slightly longer than the Delica when closed. If you like your Delica, you might enjoy this knife too.
 
They don't get mentioned all that much here, but Hogue makes a number of folders in your price range and fixed blades that are just a little bit more. Their folders all appear to have 154CM blades, while some or all of the fixed blades are A2. I have an EX03 tanto folder with polymer handle, and it's definitely a solid knife, although I would have probably spent the extra few bucks for the aluminum handle version if not for the great deal I got on the poly model.
 
Manix 2 for < $100 and some $50 fixed blade. It lacks the deep carry clip but it adds a lot to your collection -- different lock and it's a beefy knife.
 
The gunny is excellent, but I prefer the bravo. I'd beat the ESEE more though. They're both users but the ESEE feels and looks more USER IMO. Also, get a second hand Sebenza 21. Treat yourself, you've earned it.

I second the Caly3.5. Also consider a stretch.
 
If you can manage another $40, you can hey I on the new benchmade 710-1401 from knifeworks. Nice blade size and m390 steel. At last check they had 225 of 250 sold on pre order, should ship this month.

Or there is the Becker bk15, 16, 17. Nicely sized fixed blade in 1095cro-van and Great knives for the price.
 
Remember that he said "gift cards to Amazon". KW or the used market (other than Amazon resellers) are not viable options.
 
I bet a friend or family member would exchange for cash or a visa prepaid/green dot card.

And the Beckers are still a viable option.
 
Esee 3 or 4 would be great. You could still afford to add a Recon 1 or Recon 1 mini, or a Rat folder and you'd be all set.
 
Get a paramilitary 2. Then get a deep pocket clip here Shown below is a paramilitary 2 w/ the long pocket clip from the link provided.

For fixed blade an ESEE 4 would do the trick.

Of course the CF scales are aftermarket.

Rff8r07l.jpg
 
fallkniven F1 for fixed,
spyderco paramilitary for folder (there were faked paramilitary on amazon, read review before bying)
 
I second the F1. I have a Busse Basic 4, but find myself using the F1 more (both are users). There's something so simple and magical about that little F1.
 
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