Help picking my next custom...?

[Tyco]

Hello--
I own a few really nice custom folders but I'm still new to the game and can use all the advice/opinions that I can get.

Normally, I don't have too much trouble picking my custom knives. I just do some research on this board (thanks everybody for all the great info) and then buy what I like.

But I'm really torn when it comes to this latest decision. I don't own a blade hole opening custom folder (Spyderco style) and wanted to add one to my collection. The search lead me to maker Howard Viele and some of his knives, but I find myself truly stuck between the following models:

Howard Viele/Pirala "Fuzion" Tactical Folder--
http://www.knifeart.com/exfuzpirtacf.html

or

Howard Viele / Liong Mah collaboration -- "Push"
http://www.theknifecellar.com/moreinfo.asp?item_id=1305

Prices are pretty close. I like flippers like the one on the Fuzion, but it's really hard to know how well they flip and feel with out handling one. I'm also intrigued by the Push's ball lock mechanism and have read good things about it, but wonder if it may be a little gimmicky?

I'm also worried that the Push might be a little on the large side with a 4 inch blade (I mostly like knives in the 3.5-4 inch range), but the Push doesn't LOOK big, while the Fuzion, which is technically smaller, looks like it might feel and carry like a bigger knife (if that makes any sense).

At any rate, please chime in with any thoughts. I'm also open to hearing alternate ideas for other knives, just to confuse me more.

Also, if you've been considering purchasing one of the above knives, go ahead and pull the trigger. It may make things easier for me.

Thanks ahead of time.

 

[Tyco]

Naturally, from searching these boards extensively, I know the truly correct answer for this kind of question is always to simply buy both. :thumbup:

Believe me, I've considered it--but I probably am going to need to make a tough choice.

Anyone with opinions on Howard Viele, Pirela flippers, ball locks, or anything else that might help me would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[KamSingh]

Some other custom knife makers that use the Spyderhole:
http://www.ansoknives.com/
http://boblumknives.com/folder.html
http://www.wilkins-knives.com/start_e.html

 

[KamSingh]

Howard Viele makes some nice knives but the one I handled had lots of sharp corners on the handle. Looking at those links the "Push" looks like it has a few sharp corners at the front of the handle.

 

[SharpByCoop]

I wish I could show you a photo of MY latest acquisition: Its a classic Kasper folder from the team of Pat and Wes Crawford. (No time to shoot it yet) Yes, it has a 'spyder' hole as an opener, and it's a standard that has proven itself.

Crawford Kasper folders

Good luck in your choices.

Coop