I'm haunted by an all black Manix 2

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Jun 10, 2015
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About 8 months ago I ordered an all black Manix 2, something that I'd been curious about for a long time. The knife that I received had a little blade play and I found the lock really stiff, so I returned it. (Not suggesting that play is typical, I think I just got a bad egg).

In addition, I don't really like black blades. I've heard people call them "mall ninja" here and I kind of agree (just my opinion). I feel like maybe they look a little too aggressive for me.

Also, I found that the coating attracted fingerprints and oil and things like that in a way that I really didn't like.

With all of that being said...

I look at pictures of all black manix 2's all of the time

It's crazy. The model wasn't really for me and both aesthetically and functionally I don't care for coated blades, but for some reason I just absolutely can't stop staring at them. On a deep level I find them gorgeous even though my previous experience showed that it just wasn't for me.

Has this happened to anyone else with any other models?

Also, help! What do I do?

Sincerely,
Manic for Manix's
 
I wanted to try a PM2. I knew the size was a little bigger than what I'd normally like to carry but wanted to see what all the fuss was about. A blacked out PM2 came up on the exchange at a very reasonable price so I bought it. I've been a shooter all my life and I'm really not into the tactical thing but some reason I really like the looks of the black handle and hardware with DLC blade. I haven't use the knife a lot, other than handling it and cutting some paper, but so far I like the low maintenance of the DLC blade. I'm the type that doesn't like to see finger prints all over a satin blade so the DLC takes care of that phobia.

The Manix is a great knife and I say who cares what people think. If something makes you happy then buy it. If you find one with a satin blade for a price you can afford buy it too. Then you'll have the best of both worlds. I have 3 Manix 2s now and they really are great knives. The locks are a little stiff but I got over that quickly. I thought I didn't like blades over 3" but I carry them more than I thought I would. I typically carry them IWB and really can't tell they are there. Then I carry a smaller blade like a SAK Cadet or Dragonfly in my watch pocket that's more sheeple friendly.
 
Of all the coatings DLC is my favorite. You can wipe it down with oil and it drinks it in and looks great. With S30V you don't need coating, it is stainless enough unless you use it saltwater or something.
 
I had/have the exact experience with the blacked-out Southard. Bought one, had Steve Ketchen pimp it out, never carried it, and sold it.

But every time I see one on the Exchange, I get so close to pulling the trigger. Every. Single. Time.
 
I like the look of the black blade too, but at the same time I don't really like the coating because once it starts to wear the blade does not look as nice. But that being said I still have a few blades that are black, that I could not resist buying
 
I've had a Black/Black Manix 2 Lightweight in my cart from time to time, but I haven't pulled the trigger yet :D
 
I love my Manix2 blackout! I also love my PM2 blackout. I think I really like how the all black color brings your focus to the textures and shadows between the jimping on the blade and the jimping on the handle liners.
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and the wear doesn't really bother me. I don't like any other coatings though .
 
I like a black blade for a little variety, and everybody says the Spyderco coating is very good quality. I also like the XL version.

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Interesting thread. I don't buy knives with black blades or black handles. I decided a while back, however, that if I were to buy a black knife it would be the blacked out Manix. I'm not sure what it is about it, I skip right over all others.
 
Hehehe.

I have a PM2 and a Manix that are all BLACK.

DLC holds up real good.

I wish the other knife maker would get on the DLC
instead of paint.
 
I can understand the "mall ninja" comment but I've had a different experience with a black blade, although a small one (~2.8", Micro Praetorian). When using it in a retail setting, breaking down boxes, cutting twine etc. it seems to attract less attention and/or comment than a shiny blade of similar size (Mini Samaritan, Dice or Dua). I guess YMMV.
 
For the longest time, I've wanted an all black Manix 2 XL. Wonder when I'll finally pull the trigger.
 
I feel the same way about the Vallotton. Beautiful knife with great lines, and quite unique within the Spyderco line-up... but even though I keep staring at one and considering picking one up, I just know it isn't for me and I'd probably rarely carry it. But I still enjoy looking.


As far as your black on black Manix 2 - I don't see that one as "mall ninja" at all... if you're scared of being labeled a mall ninja just look at any m-tech knives, then you'll realize you're all good with the Manix 2's utilitarian shape in comparison.
 
I can understand the "mall ninja" comment but I've had a different experience with a black blade, although a small one (~2.8", Micro Praetorian). When using it in a retail setting, breaking down boxes, cutting twine etc. it seems to attract less attention and/or comment than a shiny blade of similar size (Mini Samaritan, Dice or Dua). I guess YMMV.

Same experience here in an office setting. A black blade disappears in hand or is seen more as some kind of tool, if that makes sense. When a shiny blade comes out, everyone reacts like you just unrolled Dexter's kill kit.
 
Those of you with coated blades, how do you feel about food prep? Not sure why but this weirds me out too...

Also, you've all inspired me. Currently trying to sell a Native to fund an all black Manix!
 
Like a holster-worn 1911 or S&W revolver, the coating just gets prettier with honest wear.

 
Those of you with coated blades, how do you feel about food prep? Not sure why but this weirds me out too...

Also, you've all inspired me. Currently trying to sell a Native to fund an all black Manix!

I have no issues with it.

Its not PAINT. So no worry about it flaking off.
 
I have no issues with it.

Its not PAINT. So no worry about it flaking off.

Thanks! I think I was more interested in how easy it is to clean, say, peanut butter or something off of a dlc blade version a satin one. Or something sticky like residue left over from fruit. Either way, though, as soon as I can sell something for funds a black manix will be on the way...
 
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