I have a Spyderco Gayle Bradley, Looking at a ZT 0560

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May 14, 2012
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The GB replaced some really good knives that I used to EDC.
I like the looks of the 560, but I already have a great knife.
How do they compare in terms of-
Carryability- I wear dress slacks most days. The GB disappears in my pocket, slim, not overly heavy, easy on the pockets (wear wise). 560 looks thicker, is only .03 oz heavier...
Steel- M4 has become my favorite. Durable, holds a good edge through heavy use, the edge is easy to maintain and get scary sharp. I read about the toughness of Elmax but don't know about the other qualities.
Usability- I am a southpaw, so this is important. The GB has good ergonomics, ambidextrous, does just about everything I want from work, yard/house work, kitchen, etc. the 560 blade looks pretty thick, is it ground thin enough to be everyday useful?

Should I wait for the 566 or just stick with the GB?
 
Well, I had a 560 and it felt too thick to be a comfortable EDC blade. Not to say it was bad in any way, it just felt beefy in my opinion. But they've sold a ton of em cause people really like them. But it's tough to beat Spyderco's quality and value. It sounds like the GB was a knife you really liked...
 
I've owned a 550BLK and a 560 at one point (while I was looking for my best EDC rotation);

How well it carries - Neither carried will with slacks; it was like having a lead ball chained to your pocket. Carries fine in jeans however, but most knives do...(+1 for their deep carry clips). Carry clips are easy on the pocket and don't shred.

Steel - S35VN on the 0550 was great; the Elmax on the 0560 wasn't tested much...I would read up on ZT Elmax from other reviewers, take it with a grain of salt though..

Usability - Both very usable; 0550 has a blocky feel, 0560 fits better in hand due to G10 machining. The reason I got rid of the 0560 was due to an annoying, sticky lock up which may be normal, but might be a pain to disengage as southpaw. 0550 was easy to disengage. Both will perform well in yard work as they felt solid and stable in hand. They could slice adequately, but you're better off with an FFG spyderco for thin slicing.

Good luck in making a decision!
 
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