Liner lock flippers?

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Apr 23, 2014
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Recently I got my first flipper, a CRKT Hootenanny. For $50 bucks I thought I'd found a nice little EDC knife from the store, but after a day of breaking it in just flipping it, I realized WHY it was only $50 and not pricier. (Not centered, rubbing against the frame lock, developed lock-stick where initially it was great, etc) :(

That said, however, I'm now a big fan of flippers.:rolleyes::cool:

Can anyone recommend their favorite production (or maker whose books are open) flipping liner- or frame-lock knife? IKBS, ball bearings, even washers - as long as it has a smooth action. :thumbup: I'm not looking for a Grail knife, merely something well-made that won't break the bank. I'm not a fan of assisted blades (one reason I liked the Hootenanny, the smooth flipping action is all detent and bearings, and can easily be open/closed with one hand) and have a smallish budget of $200 (although I'd be willing to pay more to a good maker or for a really good knife).

Any thoughts?
 
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I don't know how much more you'd be willing to spend, but something from André Thorburn will knock your socks off!
 
ZT0909 at $180 is in your budget and an amazing flipper and liner lock. The ZT0095BW at $220 is just outside your budget and a full titanium frame lock and also an amazing flipper. The ZT0804CF at $280 is a good bit over your price point but top of the line materials, an amazing flipper, titanium frame lock and carbon fiber scale. These are just some of the newest releases from ZT. You can also look at the ZT0562, 0562CF, 0801 and many other options from ZT. There are others but for the quality you are looking for and price range, ZT is probably one of your best to consider. I am sure others will have great suggestions.


Top to bottom are the ZT0909, ZT0095BW and ZT0804CF!

https://flic.kr/p/Fz5wtD https://www.flickr.com/photos/57703464@N02/
 
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I looked at and very nearly bought a ZT Hinderer when I got the Hootenanny - the only reason I walked out with the CRKT was that it was easier to flip and cost 1/6th the price. Kind of regretting it now, but that ZT Hinderer was definitely a nice knife!

The other ZT's I looked at were all assisted flippers and I wasn't too keen on that aspect. To each their own, but I like the ones that flip nicely based on a good design etc. :thumbup:
 
If you're looking to keep it under a $100 I love my little Kershaw Camber that I use for work. Small, assisted flipper, liner lock, grippy scales on the side of it, S30V steel, it's a great little knife for what I use it for at work. If your budget is a bit higher, how about a ZT0770. They come in several different configurations.
 
Benchmade 320 Precinct. Great flipper. Liner lock. And around $100. Plus I love Benchmade. So that's a plus.
 
The Kershaw Strobe is a lot less than $100 and is one of the best liner lock flippers for the price. It has bearings etc. and great fit and finish.
 
Yes. But it's also made in China. Yes it's a third of the price ($100 vs mid $30s). But also a third of the quality. The blade steels and materials are in completely different leagues.
 
ZT 0801 in any of its varieties. I bought one off the exchange for a lot less than the $220 standard price.
 
ZT 450, 452 or 562. I have all 3 and they are amazing flippers.
Spydie Domino is awesome. Southard, on the Exchange.
Someone mentioned a Brous earlier. I have 2 and they are some of the best flippers I have.
Lot of choices....grab what pleases your eye the most!
Good luck!
Joe
 
Another vote for the zt0909. Incredible non assisted flipper. Built like a tank and powerful.
 
Kershaw skyline and boker urban trapper. Various steels can be had. In the skyline and the boker is vg10
 
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