Is the Native FRN being Discontinued?

[The Deacon]

The current FRN Native is already $70... with upgraded steel, lock, and grind, it doesn't sound as if the Native V lightweight will be much less expensive than the G10 version. I hope I'm wrong.

Think you may be. AFAIK, there's not much, if any, difference in price between S30V and S35VN. The Native 5 lock's geometry is different from the older Native's, but it has the same number of parts, so I can't see it having an impact on price. As for grinds, Sal has stated in the past that, with rare exceptions, they don't affect the price of the knife. For example, MSRP of the saber and FFG versions of the Delica 4 are the same. One could argue that, if anything, the Native 5's grind is simpler than the older Native's.

 

[Rhyno37]

What is everyone's opinion on the pinned pivot on the Native FRN? I love the knife so far, but the pivot being pinned worries me. Is likely to loosen over time and develop blade play? Tempted to trade for a Manix LW black with the non-pinned pivot

 

[rycen]

Pin construction knives are just fine, been around for a long time without issues. Some might even see it as a benefit as there's no screws to come loose or lose.

 

[B.F.U]

What is everyone's opinion on the pinned pivot on the Native FRN? I love the knife so far, but the pivot being pinned worries me. Is likely to loosen over time and develop blade play? Tempted to trade for a Manix LW black with the non-pinned pivot

I was wary too, but mine is rock solid and ive used it pretty hard.

 

[Dan57]

Think you may be. AFAIK, there's not much, if any, difference in price between S30V and S35VN. The Native 5 lock's geometry is different from the older Native's, but it has the same number of parts, so I can't see it having an impact on price. As for grinds, Sal has stated in the past that, with rare exceptions, they don't affect the price of the knife. For example, MSRP of the saber and FFG versions of the Delica 4 are the same. One could argue that, if anything, the Native 5's grind is simpler than the older Native's.

Good to hear, and good points!
I'd prefer the Slipit version of the Native, just for simplicity's sake, but I'll buy whichever version of the knife comes out first. That's looking to be the Lightweight, at the moment.