It seems that I've been wrong about tantos

F

Franciscomv

Joined
Feb 7, 2005
Messages
2,892
I've always thought tantos were not practical (Americanised tantos, that is). Up until now I'd never owned one that I felt like EDCing, my muay thai coach gave me a Fox Folgore for my birthday but it's huge and heavy.

Anyway, fast forward to a week or so ago. I bought a Spyderco Double Bevel, just to add something different to my collection. I've been carrying on and off since I got it and I've got to admit the tanto blade works just fine for most of the stuff I use a pocket knife for. Actually, the secondary edge near the tip came in handy for a lot of detail work.

I've prepared food, cut open boxes, cut plastic bottles, string, hoses, zip ties, etc. I didn't feel hindered by the tanto blade shape at all. Sure, there were times when a different blade shape would have been better, but that happens with almost any knife, none can excel at everything.

Anyway, I'll be getting a few more tantos in the future. Which ones would you guys recommend?

20140302_134908.jpg
 
I just got the 9100 Auto Stryker in a trade a little while ago and I love it. Although that model is long discontinued, the 9101 is its replacement. If you can't carry autos then the manual, Nitruos, or Axis Strykers will probably suit you well!
 
I've been strongly considering getting the Utilitac II Tanto with coffin grip. Price and ergos aregreat
 
The 909 Stryker caught my eye. I am hesitant to get a tanto, which is why I'm trying to convince myself to look at it's practicality instead of self defense.
 
The crkt m16-14zsf is nice. Opens fast, plus if you carry it tip up the flipper works like an emerson wave. It does rust a little bit easier because of the finish. Plus it's like $40.
 
I don't care for blade shape. Thankfully they aren't the only style offered.
 
Kowan said:
I don't care for blade shape. Thankfully they aren't the only style offered.
Click to expand...

Most of my knives are drop points or spear points, simple traditional designs that work great. But I've got scores of those and want some variety.
 
If this knife was a combo edge, I might get one.
Get a CRKT M16. Great folder at a great price.
rolf
 
ZT 0700 is a fantastic tanto. Super smooth action, solid ZT lockup. Each edge has the slightest curve to it. The only tanto I would carry. Until the new ZT/Emerson comes out that is.
 
I love tantos if the angle is more obtuse, like in the Stryker. I have a Kershaw Zing tanto which I love, especially after the edge rounded a bit after sharpening. Would not hesitate to get another, but the new ZT Emerson is first on my list before I make any other purchases.
 
This is my first tanto blade in 45 years of knife buying. I bought it specifically for wood work to use the flat, straight edge of the point as a chisel blade for finer wood work. It works spectacularly, better than I would have ever believed. This particular model is extremely well made, has decent steel and excellent grinds. It came razor sharp, too.

Image borrowed from knifecenter.com



I was going to buy another tanto, but this one fits the bill so well I haven't found a need to.

Robert
 
+1 for the Sebenza or Umnumzaan Tanto and another +1 for the BM 906. I have owned both CRKs and loved both of them. (still have the Sebbie tanto) Next on my list is a BM 906 to replace my auto Stryker. Emerson does the tanto well, too. I have an old Benchmade 975 that I also love. (basically an Emerson Super CQC 7)
 

Attachments

  • Sog Night Vision.jpg
    Sog Night Vision.jpg
    3.8 KB · Views: 51
  • Microtech Delta Satin.jpg
    Microtech Delta Satin.jpg
    39.4 KB · Views: 56
  • 20130414_115028 (2200x1551).jpg
    20130414_115028 (2200x1551).jpg
    91.6 KB · Views: 72
  • 20130414_115058 (2200x1517).jpg
    20130414_115058 (2200x1517).jpg
    83.4 KB · Views: 55
  • 20130414_115109 (2200x1521).jpg
    20130414_115109 (2200x1521).jpg
    95.2 KB · Views: 53
I like my Mini Stryker a great deal and while the transition between the small edge by the tip and the main edge has blurred and rounded with sharpenings, I like how the edge by the tip is like a much beefier xacto-style blade. I can use the point for very small details and even pare things very evenly with the flat edge.

The look doesn't do anything for me like it used to, but it will work once you figure out how to use it best.
 
Most people don't like tantos based solely on aesthetics. Glad you decided to actually use one and saw the light. :D
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top