Iconic and archetypical modern folder

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Luke_Chambers

Joined
Jan 10, 2022
Messages
132
Hello,
I’ve always liked pocket knives and over the years I’ve accumulated a number of nice ones, all traditional, with a few SAKs thrown in. In 2020-2021 lockdown time, I avoided Covid, but caught the knife bug instead. The knife count has doubled, and I’m starting to consider these two dozen EDCs to be a small collection.
Now, for comparison to the traditionals, and as a conversation starter, I’m looking to add an archetypical modern knife.
I have no clue about modern knives, and I’ve never bought one. Now, if someone should ask me for the archetypical traditional knife, I should tell him to go with a stockman with jigged bone.
Could you please suggest an iconic modern knife to me? Something like the Buck 110 or Buck 112 of the modern folder class?
What seems typical to me:
  • Blade flips open single handedly and then locks
  • High tech scale material like G10, carbon fibre or titanium
  • Handle has a polygonal shape with some angles and corners
  • Handle color is black, sand, olive or camouflage
  • Stainless blade has a dark coating or is stonewashed
  • Blade is partially serrated
  • Pocket clip
  • Martial impression, a backup weapon of last resort
What knife to pick? Thanks in advance!
 
Any of the CRKT/James Williams kwaiken-style folders, or the CRKT/Jim Hammond Cruiser.

Some of the early Zero Tolerance knives? The 0302, I think might work.
 
I said this on another forum:

I have a Benchmade and quite a few Spydercos. I must admit that, when it comes to knives and tequila, the story is important, and I really admire the Spyderco story. It's the best version of American entrepreneurship, and Sal Glesser is someone whom Benjamin Franklin would recognize and understand. I am referring to a curiosity and a liveliness of intellect. Probably the knifemakers on this forum are similarly engaged with their work.

In short, Spyderco makes the knife to meet your collecting parameters, and it comes with a story that can't be beat. If you're a collector, I'm sure you value the story.
 
The first two knives that popped into my mind when I saw your title were the CRK Sebenza and the Spartan Harsey Folder. I suppose you could also look for a Bob Terzuola ATCF, since that is the "original" tactical folder, and would fit many of your requirements, but as a custom, it is harder to obtain.
 
Agreed on the Chris Reeve Sebenza or Inkosi, as well as the Spartan Harsey Folder. Don't gloss over the Hinderer knives either, especially the flagship XM18. These 3, for many, exemplify what a modern folder that will stand the test of time could and should be.
 
I’d say top three most iconic modern folders would be the CRK Sebenza, Hinderer XM-18, or the Spyderco Para 2 or 3. These are probably the most highly regarded, and sought after knives currently in existence.
 
Thanks for all the answers. In my jurisdiction, automatic knives or one-hand knives with blades larger than 8.5 cm (about 3.25") aren't legal. I took a closer look at the hinderer XM18 3", Chris Reeve Inkosi, CRKT Heijo, and Spyderco Paramilitary 2. All very pricy and hard to find (apart from CRKT). When I checked the forums on these knives, another one was caught my eye because it was mentioned so frequently, that is the Benchmade Bugout. From the size and price appeals to me. From a collectors point of view, am I right to say that this is turning out to be a modern classic, too?
 
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Luke_Chambers said:
Thanks for all the answers. In my jurisdiction, automatic knives or one-hand knives with blades larger than 8.5 cm aren't legal. I took a closer look at the hinderer XM18 3", Chris Reeve Inkosi, CRKT Heijo, and Spyderco Paramilitary 2. All very pricy and hard to find (apart from CRKT). When I checked the forums on these knives, another one was caught my eye because it was mentioned so frequently, that is the Benchmade Bugout. From the size and price appeals to me. From a collectors point of view, am I right to say that this is turning out to be a modern classic, too?
Click to expand...
Check out the Ritter RSK if you are interested in the bugout. Also, why partially serrated? That definitely limits your search. I'd also suggest the CRK Umnumzaan or the Spyderco Gayle Bradley 2.
 
Luke_Chambers said:
Thanks for all the answers. In my jurisdiction, automatic knives or one-hand knives with blades larger than 8.5 cm (about 3.25") aren't legal. I took a closer look at the hinderer XM18 3", Chris Reeve Inkosi, CRKT Heijo, and Spyderco Paramilitary 2. All very pricy and hard to find (apart from CRKT). When I checked the forums on these knives, another one was caught my eye because it was mentioned so frequently, that is the Benchmade Bugout. From the size and price appeals to me. From a collectors point of view, am I right to say that this is turning out to be a modern classic, too?
Click to expand...

The Bugout is a very popular knife and has become more popular largely due to the aftermarket parts and customization options available. Definitely a decent knife, but leaves something to be desired with the stock models (ie cheap materials and overpriced for what it is). IMO the Hogue Deka is very similar in its design but better in every way. So if you want a popular knife that you can pay even more to customize the bugout is a decent choice. If you have no interest in customizing and want a knife with a similar design but better materials the Deka is the way to go.
 
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