Larger Folder

Joined
Jul 26, 2010
Messages
7
Looking for a larger (~8" oal) long-lasting folder with a good lockup for regular use (but not abuse) in the $50-80 range. No major preference for lock type, other than I'd like to stay away from super-thin liner locks. Here's what I'm looking at so far:

Kershaw Speed Bump
CRKT M21 (big one)
Kershaw Junkyard Dog II
Kershaw scamp (cheap!)

I have been tempted by the ZT 0200 or 0300, but they're at least double the price above, and maybe even a little too thick for pocket carry (don't really care about weight, though).
 
I would say, Spyderco Endura, Cold Steel Recon 1, or Ontario Rat 1 (even cheaper).
also, if weight isn't a concern, a Buck 110 is always a good choice
 
Try to pick up a ZT 0300 used, as a factory second. I got one of those, plus a ZT 0400 serrated blade folder, for $200 total, shipped, on ebay.

Don't let the factory second designation scare you; I still have no idea what is "wrong" with the knife.
 
The Spyderco Paramilitary 2 is $108 - and its the best $108 you'll ever spend (and the compression lock is stout).

That being said, the Kershaw Rake is a good choice (not a thin liner-lock, but a liner-lock none the less). Benchmade's Griptilian is another good choice.
 
A knife I really like, though I don't have it, is the Kershaw Lahar. It is discontinued, but is still available in a lot of places online. It would fit your needs and look good doing it!
 
Just got a Spyderco Resilience in the mail yesterday for $40. 9.5" overall, 4.25" blade. Wicked slicer and stabber, opens very fast, very light in hand. Not a big fan of the pocket clip, and I'm not sure how the steel will hold up, but it could be worth a look.
 
Look at the Meyerco manufactured Lightfoot Catchdog folder. I've been edc'ing it now for about a month and gotta tell ya for the bucks spent, about 35, you won't find a better made folder nor a larger one. Nice big handle, 4" blade with a very slight recurve, 8cr steel which ain't bad, I like it better than AUS8a actually. Handle is big and it is kind of heavy with thick a thick liner lock. So there ya go. keepem sharp
 
The Speed Bump's discontinued and won't be around for much longer; I'd get that. It's probably your last chance to get an affordable stud lock.
 
Just today, I received the CRKT M16-14Z that I bought from a guy here at BladeForums, and I have to tell you, that you REALLY should take a close look at this model, as I am VERY impressed with it...It's a very well-made, very smooth folder.
 
Just today, I received the CRKT M16-14Z that I bought from a guy here at BladeForums, and I have to tell you, that you REALLY should take a close look at this model, as I am VERY impressed with it...It's a very well-made, very smooth folder.

If you're not against China made knives, Enlan EL01 is a flipper and has large handle that you might like.
It does take some breaking in, but mine is now smooth & solid. I also thin down the bevel making it better slicer :)

I like EL2 due to it's less agressive look ;)
 
I am a fan of the JYD II, except for the clip, so i would spend 50 bucks on that then a 30 dollar custom clip from STR on the forum. low profile and well done titanium.

another couple of options are the shallot, which is a framelock and assisted, and then the blur, which is assisted and a pretty sturdy liner lock. I love the blur, and for your high price range, you could get one is S30V. it is a pretty good options, and i think it gets taken for granted a lot of the time. it is a really solid knife.

try them out, see what you like, and if you can't decide, go for the cheaper one. YMMV
 
Check out the Kershaw Lahar. Roughly 8.3" overall. Comes in VG10 for around $60 or you can check the exchange. I picked one up from bennyb in the exchange and I love it.

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I would pick up a flat ground Spyderco Endura in ZDP-189. That should make a very sensible, no fuss EDC. If you want something with a little more flair, the Kershaw JYD 2 has a style all its own and is very sturdy. CPM D-2 (on the composite blade JYD 2) is one of my favorite "work" steel types, as it sharpens easily and holds an edge decently well. ZDP-189 is more to my liking in knives that you sharpen extremely thin and give delicate treatment.
 
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