Kizer Velox 2 vs. ZT0456?

C

CkBlades

Joined
May 5, 2016
Messages
3
I'm looking at getting a new folder in the $150-$250 range and my two favorites so far have been the Velox 2 from Kizer and the ZT0456. Which would you recommend, and why? I'm already leaning a little toward the Kizer just for the price difference. But I'm staying open minded until I hear some of your opinions. Thanks!
 
I have a Kizer, and I can tell you that the fit and finish is amazing. People here may (and rightly so) tell you to buy the ZT because it is American made, but not everyone can afford to that. I am amazed at the materials that Kizer uses for the prices. I am an American knifemaker, and still own a number of Chinese made knives (American made being my preference)
 
Kizer Velox 2 ($195) is actually more expensive than ZT 0450 ($160)! The ZT is also smaller and lighter. My favorite is ZT 0450CF for $180 and it's even lighter.
 
Kizer doesn't enforce MAP, so if you look around you can find the Velox 2 for $159.95. It's hard to find a ZT for less than MAP, so you're pretty much stuck with paying $240 for the 0456 unless you buy used.

I don't own the ZT0456, but I do own the Velox 2 and I find it hard to believe the ZT is $80 better. I also have a hard time with a 3.25" blade weighing 6.5 ounces. I have a feeling it would be a bit of a pocket brick, as that's a lot of weight packed into a small area. I like the look of the 0456, but I really can't see myself ever WANTING to carry it.

The Velox 2 is a sweet little knife. It's got a unique flipping mechanism, so if you like big flippers with lots of torque, you might want to try to get your hands on a Velox to see if it works for you. I almost discounted the Velox 2 because I already had a Kizer Gemini and the knives look very similar. They're very different knives though and I think I prefer the Velox in hand over the Gemini.

If I had to choose between the two, I'd have to go with the Velox 2 vs. the 0456. If it was the 0450, 0450CF, 0562, 0801 or even an 0808 you were considering, I'd probably call it a toss up.
 
I have had my ZT0456 in my pocket now for just over a month now. It is my absolute favorite knife I have owned in a very very long time. The knife fits my XXL sized hands great, ultra smooth opening and the edge retention has just blown my mind. I have owned other ZT's with M390 and CTS-204P but have to guess that ZT has dialed it in a little more. I have not sharpened it one time and only hit it on a strop about once a week and it is still razor sharp. Considering how many boxes I cut up on a daily basis, that is impressive.

I don't own a Kizer so I have no advice to give there. It appears they are nice, but obviously not something I am going to own or carry.

https://flic.kr/p/GEsVEw https://www.flickr.com/photos/57703464@N02/
 
Personally I would pay a little more for the ZT. It comes with some benefits that the Kizer does not: better warranty, free sharpening, large brand following (read: resale value) and while I don't like the all metal scales on either one, the ZT scales don't appear to be quite a sleek and slick as those on the Kizer.
 
If you decide to go with the ZT0456, make sure to check out some of the anodized models they have a USAMadeBlade. For no additional money, they sure make the knife look even sweeter!
 
Thanks so much for the responses! I think I will go with the Kaiser, but the ZT will definitley be on my list for future purchases.
 
whitty said:
I have had my ZT0456 in my pocket now for just over a month now. It is my absolute favorite knife I have owned in a very very long time. The knife fits my XXL sized hands great, ultra smooth opening and the edge retention has just blown my mind. I have owned other ZT's with M390 and CTS-204P but have to guess that ZT has dialed it in a little more. I have not sharpened it one time and only hit it on a strop about once a week and it is still razor sharp. Considering how many boxes I cut up on a daily basis, that is impressive.

I don't own a Kizer so I have no advice to give there. It appears they are nice, but obviously not something I am going to own or carry.

https://flic.kr/p/GEsVEw https://www.flickr.com/photos/57703464@N02/
Click to expand...

Thanks so much for the response! I follow your Instagram and its really nice seeing you interact with the community. Says a lot about you and your business. I really like when a knife has a smooth action, so the ZT does sound good in that aspect.
 
echo whats said about ZT warranty. Recently sent in a ZT0562CF with a tiny blade play. Received the knife back in perfect condition in about 10 days.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top