High quality folder under $65

[Coduhhh]

Why is that?

I guess it's just me, but most people that I've seen that are new to knives that try to use a large blade for cutting tasks look awkward and unsafe and end up cutting something that they didn't aim to (including themselves). Not to say that I haven't cut myself plenty with small blades. Then again if he wants a large "tactical" folder then he probably wont be doing normal cutting tasks with it anyway.

 

[A.P.F.]

Spyderco Native would be my choice but there are several good quality folders at that price. Good luck.

I agree. A Native was my first Spyderco and is still one of my favorite knives.

 

[vonhizzle]

I recommend the Kershaw Lahar, VG10, flipper, thick G10, beefy construction and $50 shipped. Think it is discontinued but you can still find some floating around.

 

[mlanghornes]

Kershaw skyline is an absolutely fantastic knife, and comes in well under your price limit. Some people will say its not terribly robust, but its stronger than it looks, and really just a fine all around knife. Kershaw's 14c28n steel reminds me of a nice carbon steel, since it sharpens easily, takes a fantastic edge, and holds it for a decent amount of time. If you don't mind recurves, the Kershaw Groove is another goodie, extremely strong framelock and blade, with some style, but that may not be your thing. I also have to second the mini-griptilian, jsut a very fine all-around knife. I've also owned two Delicas, they didn't really "do it" for me, so I sold them, but I absolutely cannot fault the construction, steel, build quality, or anything else. It was more of a subjective style/feel thing to me. One thing I would suggest, considering you are 16 and have limited funds, is to use caution around companies without a lifetime warranty or reputation for good CS. Kershaw, spyderco, and benchmade will all take care of you if you have an issue, I can't speak either for or against anyone else, but it is something to consider.