high end user folder similar to Leek?

mariposa

mariposa

Joined
Dec 31, 2013
Messages
20
Hey guys, been mostly lurking around here a few years. . . long enough to learn quite a bit and pick up some nice knives here and there. . . ZT/Benchmade/Emerson/Esee etc. But my most often carried EDC really remains one of a couple Leeks that I have had for a while, mostly because of the slim profile. My work pockets often require something discreet and slim. I also like the assist and the blade profile.

Can you guys recommend a few choices on the higher end to try that are similar in feel? I generally buy in the $100-200 range unless it's something special, but for this purpose that should be plenty. Just looking for something nice in production. Thanks!
 
There is an Elmax Leek out now. You could also try out a Titanium/Damascus Spyderco Delica.
Benchmade 707 might be a good option too.
 
ZT 0808, Spyderco pm2 s110v if u can find one.
 
Small Sebenza.
 
Ajack60 said:
Zt0450
Click to expand...

This^^^, especially if you want to stay with a design that's similar to a Leek in the $100 to $200 range. Oh, and in case no one mentions it, the 0450 (ZT) and the Leek (Kershaw) share the same lineage. They're both manufactured by KAI Corporation.
 
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If you are looking for a slim and light folder, my choice would be a Benchmade 531. Very light and slim.
 
LionSteel TRE. Nice smaller knife. Very well made.
For around $200 you have 3 or 4 choices for scale color.
Here are some specs and a couple borrowed pics.
(pics are from sale ad on an auction site.)

Features:
Approx. 6-7/8" open length, 3" blade, 4" closed. Weighs approx. 2.4 oz.
3.5mm thick blade and is made from Stonewash finished Bohler M390 stainless steel and has a hardness of about 60-61 HRC.
Flipper opening blade with IKBS ball-bearing system for smooth operation.
Titanium frame-lock system.
OD Green G-10 handle.
Frame lock bar has a reinforced hardened steel replaceable tip.
Titanium pocket clip that can be mounted for either right or left hand carry.
Black G-10 handle spacer.


 
Thanks guys, these are looking really good. That ZT 0808 is speaking to me visually. . . I'm not sure I like the ZT lock as much as the Benchmade. Have thought about picking up a 531 for sure. Never been much of a Spyderco guy.

I have had my eye on a small Sebenza too. . . I could stretch up there but it's not beyond me to lose an EDC. Hmm. . . is it really that far above the rest?
 
that lionsteel look fantastic too. . . not familiar with the brand but love the clean lines.
 
20151019_210055_zpslodg4k9y.jpg
 
how does the axis-assist compare to the kershaw?

oh, I'm definitely going to give a 0450 a shot, but may pick up a couple so grateful for any and all suggestions. Now that I have found a closeup shot of the 0808 and 0450 side by side, I prefer the smaller size for a pocket carry.
 
You'll love either a BM 940, 943 or a ZT 450......both simply amazing knives, perfect for EDC!! Step up from the Leek for sure!
If you're thinking of the 450, check out usamadeblade here on the forum.....he has some already anodized!
Good luck!
Joe
 
Yeah man, I actually have a 943 and it's great for sure. Just picked up a 450 too, from a sponsor. Still thinking about that Sebenza. . .
 
940/943. Or to stay at your 3" point, BM707.
I really like my 707, even though it's overpriced for what it is. Actually, unless you really want to stay at the 3" mark I would highly recommend a 943.
If there's one thing I like better than assisted, it's a non-assisted Axis lock folder.

Edit: Oops, sorry, didn't read close enough, you already have one. My bad.
 
If you're willing to stretch in price the small sebenzas should be high on your list. I have to say that it wasn't love at first for me. I would carry it for a week then switch to another knife. But every time I went back to it it felt better and better. It's an old friend now. Nothing I have held compares. Good luck in your search.
 
I know what your talking about finding that blade shape, as someone already suggested the ZT 0808, or my personal pick is the Random Task.
 
The axis assist work great, have the BM 5000...but it does take some getting used to when compared to the regular axis locks. As far as what your looking for I only have the 5000 and some Infidels that are auto...generally I like non-auto and non-assisted blades.

If your into big knives I highly recommend the BM 808 Loco.
 
I'm another zt450 vote. I like the zt808 too because it's a little beefier, but if the goal is to stay slim like the Leek, but higher quality, the 450 is the way to go.

I've only got one Benchmade at the moment, so I can't really speak to them. But if you like the Leek, you'll LOVE the zt450.
 
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