Ladybug ZDP-189 question

[Lacerdo]

Hi guys!
I need your experienced opinion - how brittle is the tip on ladybug ZDP-189?
I'm thinking to get LB in that steel but after I handed one (and V-toku2 one) I'm doubt that ffg ZDP is a good idea. No hard use though. I have LB H1 SE - the tip is thick and strong. I used to have MB in HAP-40 - the tip is thick and strong. Can't say the same about FFG LB...
Any experience with loosing the tip on ZDP's little Spydies?
Thank you! Every input is appreciated!

 

[Quiet]

Candidly speaking, if you're abusing a Ladybug, which was clearly meant for lighter chores, you either need to reevaluate your knife-use habits, or else get a bigger knife. (shrug)

 

[Lacerdo]

Candidly speaking, if you're abusing a Ladybug, which was clearly meant for lighter chores, you either need to reevaluate your knife-use habits, or else get a bigger knife. (shrug)

I don't think I'm abusing them no hard use as I said. But I just don't feel that I'll be able to do same "light chores" with FFG ZDP like I do with saber grind VG-10/H1. There are so many reports that "ZDP is brittle and prone to chip" and the tip on FFG ZDP is just needle thin.

 

[Quiet]

I don't think I'm abusing them no hard use as I said. But I just don't feel that I'll be able to do same "light chores" with FFG ZDP like I do with saber grind VG-10/H1. There are so many reports that "ZDP is brittle and prone to chip" and the tip on FFG ZDP is just needle thin.

Right, because it is. They make great cutting tools, so...? What light chores, or rather, what do you consider to be "light chores" that would break the tip off of any of Spyderco's FFG ZDP189 offerings?

P.S. I've used multiple Spyderco ZDP189 knives and have never had an issue. I currently EDC the Delica in that steel, and have a Stretch as well. Have had and sold others.

 

[WValtakis]

There are so many reports that "ZDP is brittle and prone to chip" and the tip on FFG ZDP is just needle thin.

In my experience, those reports are exaggerated and outdated. I love ZDP-189, and have never experienced any problems...but I use my knives for cutting

 

[Quiet]

Also, I should probably have stated that I'm not trying to attack you, so if my tone offends, I apologize as that's not my intent. Frankly, I was baffled from the outset, because your first post mentions the Ladybug. I've owned a Ladybug (and a Manbug) at various times, and they aren't what I would consider general use knives at all. I kept one on my keychain, and would open envelopes, or maybe snip a thread off a shirt. Anything else, and it was using my actual EDC knife.

There HAVE been cases where people have reported snapping the tips off their Spyderco FFG knives, with PM2s and Enduras being the usual suspects. However, in virtually every case, the tip snapped off while the user was attempting to pry at something. So, my takeaway is, don't try to pry with that tip, and you'll be fine!

 

[The Aflac Duck]

I pried open paint cans with a ZDP Ladybug. It’s fine.

 

[Lacerdo]

Also, I should probably have stated that I'm not trying to attack you, so if my tone offends, I apologize as that's not my intent. Frankly, I was baffled from the outset, because your first post mentions the Ladybug. I've owned a Ladybug (and a Manbug) at various times, and they aren't what I would consider general use knives at all. I kept one on my keychain, and would open envelopes, or maybe snip a thread off a shirt. Anything else, and it was using my actual EDC knife.

There HAVE been cases where people have reported snapping the tips off their Spyderco FFG knives, with PM2s and Enduras being the usual suspects. However, in virtually every case, the tip snapped off while the user was attempting to pry at something. So, my takeaway is, don't try to pry with that tip, and you'll be fine!

I didn't feel like your tone was offending or something And I probably had to mention that I'm thinking about ZDP LB AS a main blade. No other EDC knife on me. So yes, my needs would be not only cut something but pierce (not pry) as well... And that's where I start thinking about thickness of ffg tip.

 

[Lacerdo]

I pried open paint cans with a ZDP Ladybug. It’s fine.

That's the info I need! Thanks for the input!

 

[WValtakis]

I didn't feel like your tone was offending or something And I probably had to mention that I'm thinking about ZDP LB AS a main blade. No other EDC knife on me. So yes, my needs would be not only cut something but pierce (not pry) as well... And that's where I start thinking about thickness of ffg tip.

I have never seen a point broken off on any knife solely by piercing...there has always been lateral pressure.

 

[tomhosang]

I think you're worrying a bit too much about it. ZDP is a great steel and will hold up to almost anything you can throw at it in the ladybug configuration.

 

[lambertiana]

I have only used mine to open boxes, and in that use it excels.

 

[Wowbagger]

No hard use though.

I am VERY happy with mine. I would say if you have a Spyderco Para2 (in what ever steel) and you haven't broken the tip off that you will be fine.
I prefer thinner finer points for finer work. The only time I've had any slight problem with ZDP was chipping on my Dragonfly from cutting wire ties. By the time I got my Endura in ZDP and then the Ladybug I learned to never cut wire ties with that steel.

I think I prefer the Ladybug to the Manbug but then I carry several knives; the LB for fine work and something else for the heavy lifting. I say get it just be aware of it's intended uses.