Lone Wolf Paul or Nakamura for beginner?

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PlayboyPenguin

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Dec 25, 2005
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I have not owned a pocket knife since I was a teen. I have recently decided I would like to start a collection of gentlemen's folders like my grandfather and father both have done. I have bought many knives as gifts for friends and family and two have struck me as a knife with which I would like to start my collecting. These are the kershaw Nakamura and the Lone Wolf Paul. I find both to be solid feeling mid-range knives and I like the fact that the Paul is made here in Oregon where I live. I would love to hear other opinions on these knives.
 
I have one of the Gerber Paul knives, Series II. It's definitely collectible, and the interesting locking mechanism is a huge bonus in my book.

If interested in collecting traditional knives, you should score a couple of low-price USA-made Schrades since they went out of business last year.

Also, keep an eye out for Bruckmann slipjoints on eBay. They don't normally sell very high, but are the epitome of "gentlemans pocketknives". There was a large warehouse find in the 1970s - 1980s, so sale prices are low and mint condition knives are readily available.

Happy Shopping,
Bob
 
I have the Nakamura and it an exceptionally well built as well as elegant knife. Razor sharp edge NIB and seems to hold that edge very well.

I have no experience with the Lone Paul but if it is in fact made by Greber, I would be a little apprehensive. Forum members, more knowledgeable than I, seem to disparage any new Gerber products since the company was sold to Fiskars.

If you are looking for a little smaller/lighter, yet very elegant gent's folder, check out Spyderco's KOPA in Black Micarta or Cocobola. A little less money than the Nakamura but a beautiful knife.
 
between the two of them, the Paul knife has the more interesting mechanism, and the wider variety of choice of materials. The Nakamura has the better blade steel. Which is more important to you?
 
Lone Wolf isn't owned by Gerber; they are the current manufacturers of the Paul knives that Gerber used to make. Same locking mechanism, different company.

If you can find one, the Majestic by Aristocrat Knives is another interesting lock in a gentleman's folder. They are rare on the resale market, but don't sell higher than when new.

Also, the Van Hoy Snap Lock by CRKT. Very cool. Classy appearance and unique design.

If you're interested in locking mechanisms, there are plenty of not-so-classy black plastic knives to consider. The Lev-R-Lock by Camillus, the TimberLite by Timberline knives, and the Griptillian knives by Benchmade.

Best Wishes,
Bob
 
All these seem like nice knives. I do like the KOPA by Spyderco and may order myself one with the cocobolo handle. As for blades...I am not very versed in the differences. I do not know the difference between a 420 high carbon or a VG10. I will probably build a display case and when I am not carrying a knife it will be displayed. Therefore, I tend to like a piece to have a little flash so it adds something to a collection. I love the inlaid handle on the Nakamura but I also love the lock on the Paul. I am also partial to Burlwood handles or cocobolo (even though I used to build furniture and hated cocobolo wood).
 
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