HINDERER XM-18 OR HOBACK KWAIBACK

Joined
Oct 27, 2018
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I want to get one of these knives. Witch one would you get? Don't over think this. Light utility work or fidget. Thanks...Gary
 
Both are good knives - get whichever appeals to you.
I carry my A15 more than my XM18
If it helps your decision, the kwaiback is a larger knife...more comparable to an XM24.
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I believe the kwaiback is a tiny bit shorter than the A15; but this should give you an idea.
 
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I’ve got both, I carry the Hoback more than the Hinderer. Both are good for light use and to fidget with. The Hoback is a thicker, heavier knife with a thicker blade. I like the weight of the Hoback, the tanto blade. It’s also, IMO, a better flipper than the Hinderer. The Hinderer I have is an earlier model that aren’t known for their flipper quality. I’ve read they have become more consistent with the later generations. The latest with the tri pivot options looks interesting. You have more options to personalize a Hinderer than a Hoback.
Can’t go wrong with either choice.

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The thing with hobacks is there a religious writing/line on every of his knives (Ps23) if its not something that doesn’t bother you, his knives are rather more overbuilt than Hinderer. BUT, fit and finish is a bit lackluster. For instance, my Kwaiback blade isn’t asymmetrical on both side. In fact, one side is way off than the other. But, other than my Kwaiback, my Husky, which is another Hoback’s, was perfect.

My only issues that i’ve encountered with hinderers was the usage, back then, of Teflon washers and weak detent, especially on my xm24. But, it seems, the issue was fixed with gen6 Tri-way.

Additional note: Jake Hoback is a huge fan of RED loctite. Just to let you know.
 
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I would go with the Hoback considering the price.

As a former XM-18 owner, I would get the ZT 0562 instead. With Hinderer...you get Toyota quality for Lexus prices. The ZT is Lexus quality for Toyota prices. Many others hold the same opinion.
 
Kwaiback is closer in size to the XM-24 but they are all nice knives. I used to not like the religious overtones, but, I am over it and think it adds character now. For what it's worth, my Kwaiback is perfect. You can't go wrong with either brand.
 
Never owned a Hinderer but I did have a CF Kwaiback a few years back. It was impressive in terms of fit and finish. Also, I would add that I dropped it once on tile and the CF frame cracked and split. It was still functional but Hoback warranty covered it and replaced the scale. All I covered was shipping. Only reason I sold mine is that it was too big.

Regarding fidgeting, it’s pretty awesome if you like a big “thwack”
 
Thanks guys for the input. I have a shot show Millie. Carbon fiber one side and titatuim frame lock. I feel like i need 1 more large knife
 
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