Looking for a Folder

[Blade1LE]

agreed. After buying my Large Sebenza 21 Carbon Fiber. I can't seem to give any pocket time to many of my other knives. It's just way too good. The Carbon fiber on the large sebenzas really cuts the weight significantly. In my hands, the perft, most ideal weight. Plus the blue accents go well with the carbon fiber. Mines an insingo blade but its mostly because i love the look. But it really does give you a better slicing ability

 

[Cpmd3v]

Para2 is such a all around beast . F and f , value etc.

 

[ChazzyP]

agreed. After buying my Large Sebenza 21 Carbon Fiber. I can't seem to give any pocket time to many of my other knives. It's just way too good. The Carbon fiber on the large sebenzas really cuts the weight significantly. In my hands, the perft, most ideal weight. Plus the blue accents go well with the carbon fiber. Mines an insingo blade but its mostly because i love the look. But it really does give you a better slicing ability

The Insingo is a helluva slicer. Mine is a large 21 with Micarta inlays that's a great work carry too. Sometimes the belly on the drop point blade comes in handy and sometimes the straight edge run works out better. Neither have much trouble with bacon.

The light weight of the CF slab on the KA large 21 is excellent, though. See, there's two there and I can't choose....

 

[spykez]

Para2 is such a all around beast . F and f , value etc.

Hard to argue. You have to be careful of the tip though.

This is what I've been carrying lately, Jack. I'm no pilot, so I don't know how useful some of the tools are to you, but I like this thing. The glass cutter, as you can imagine will need replacing but they factored that in to the design. I mean I really like this thing, bar the liner lock for the main blade is on the wrong side.

This is my "tactilol" folder knife.

Yep, I like Emersons. Especially the better ones in the cheap Kershaw Emerson range for the very reason that they're cheap.

I like the handling of this knife so much I bought two. One to use now, and one for when it's completely fubar. I also bought two CQC-4KXL's but they are less practical with tips that definitely look weaker.

 

[Ironbut]

View attachment 729578 Starbenza 25. The newer Inkozi has some minor improvements, but not enough for me to ditch this one for an Inkozi. The new Inkozi Insigno is tempting me though.

 

[archieblue]

Yup! I also have or have had all of the Knives listed, and I chose CRK. Go with whichever CRK catches your eye. I'm really enjoying the Large Inkosi. Large because I, too, am large & Inkosi because I enjoy the ball interface. Para 2 and XM-18 are a tie for 2nd. P2 would win if cost edges out competition & XM would win if bomber robust build takes priority.

 

[Hackenslash]

I'd go with a large Sebenza or Zaan. Either stands above any of the other knives in your poll.

I see the PM2 is getting lots of votes. While a nice knife, its in an entirely different category from a CRK. The PM2 is a good production knife but if you're really looking for craftsmanship, you'll be happier with a CRK. I wouldn't consider it a hard use, "fighting" folder either, but it is a great, light duty EDC knife. You'll have to decide what works best for you.

Of course, the PM2 is significantly cheaper than a CRK. If you want a hard use knife in the same price range as a PM2, I'd suggest a ZT. Last time I looked the 0801 was available at some great close-out prices.

 

[GB940Rookie]

Hi Jack,
These are my favorite EDCs over 3"
Gayle Bradley 2 and BM 940-1

Of the ones you mentioned, I envision you with a Hinderer.

 

[ChazzyP]

I'd go with a large Sebenza or Zaan. Either stands above any of the other knives in your poll.

If you want a hard use knife in the same price range as a PM2, I'd suggest a ZT. Last time I looked the 0801 was available at some great close-out prices.

You're right about the Seb or Zaan, Slash, but that 801 is a helluva deal at current prices--a Ti framelock with Elmax on bearings and nice handle milling/ergos. I can't say I've used mine much as it's been very nicely pimped to the point of virtual safe-queen-ness, but it's a pretty sweet knife.

 

[BD_01]

I'm not insinuating CRK, Hinderer, Strider won't stand up to real use; however, will YOU be willing to put YOUR $400 knife into real use? If that's going to be tough for you, I recommend a Spyderco, PM2, GB2 or Military. They will all be a huge step up from your CRKT. I always reach for my PM2 when I have real work to do, and it never disappoints. Given that it's flat and fairly light, it should carry awesomely in a flight suit.

The GB2 strikes me as a bargain for a well made hard use folder that's almost tuxedo clad--it and the XM-18 Bowie are on my want list, but that niche in my collection is pretty full (and money is tight).

The 'Zaan and 21 are both great knives, but for some reason the 'Zaan gives me a little something extra. Maybe it just feels more substantial--I definately love the blade shape.

I thought my son had an M-16 around for a comparison pic, turns out it's an M-14 which is a pretty large knife. Note the PM2 looks a little more stubby in the pic than in real life due to perspective. (Tanto 'Zaan)



Here's a 21 thrown in for comparison. (Regular 'Zaan). Note that perspective is still in play, this time making the insingo look a hair smaller relative to the others.



Perhaps the PM2 doesn't look too sexy beside the others in those pics. IMO it's beauty comes from design, function, utility, and price point. The 'Zaan is just pure awesomeness though. The GB2 might sit in a good spot between the two, which is why I want one so badly.

ETA: I agree with what others are saying about the 0801. Hard to beat for the price and it's the best flipping action of all my knives. It might be a bit heavy for a flight suit, but carries well in jeans and such. It's thick behind the edge.

 

[PURPLEDC]

I have owned a lot of tactical folders. So far in the 30 years Ive been collecting I cant remember ever being as happy with a folder as I am with my steelcraft bodega from todd begg knives. Yes they are made in china by reate but they are so much more than an average production knife. IMHO they really elevate Chinese knife making to an artform. Begg knives didn't just send them a cad file and say "make it as close as you can" they taught David Deng (owner and knifemaker) various techniques to help Reate make the best knives they can possibly make and its really starting to show. The finishes alone on these knives really help one understand why they cost what they do. $460 seems like a lot of money. But when you see all the little details and just how well they execute those details you get to appreciate the value these knives actually offer. Truly a knife you have to hold to appreciate. Fit finish and function is some of the best I have seen.


Another great thing about this particular knife is if you choose the hand satin finish as they are also handground which is not the case with the black or two tone blades.

 

[Ironbut]

View attachment 729618 Another 801. This one in black stonewash.

 

[Jack88]

Give us an indication what you're going to be using the knife for other than carrying in your flight suit.
You've listed three different brands with different uses.
I've got all three brands. I carry a CRK along with a ZT, Hinderer, Strider. For me, the CRK is the best all around knife for me.. I think that's why I carry one every day.

Can't say I hard use a knife as much as I did working A/C maintenance (cutting up large boxes even through light wire) but I'd still like to have that capability. For the most part my EDC is carried simply for light cutting jobs.

I would like the knife to be able to handle some heavier tasks as far as cutting up timber in the forest. Pairing it with my NL1 possibly for more outdoor adventures, so able to withstand the elements as well.

I voted for the Spyderco Paramilitary 2. However, I think you should take a long hard look at the Spyderco Manix 2 Back Lock. It is a better knife and better than many of those you have listed in the OP.

I honestly think I'll be picking up a PM2 as well as whatever I grab, too many good reviews of it and its reasonably priced.

I'd say don't burn yourself out too fast.
There are a few knives that you have to own and try prior to jumping to those high end variants such as the Sebenza IMO.
Those are: Ontario RAT 1, a Benchmade with an Axis lock, Spyderco PM2 and a ti frame lock flipper on bearings (ZT is a nice option there).
Then you will slowly build your knife preferences and will know what to choose by yourself out of the options (you will also appreciate the high end knife much more going this way).
Just my 2 cents on the subject.

These are all knives I want to own eventually, but I like to buy top notch quality to begin with. Learned my lesson in the world of firearms its better to have quality than quantity. As for the collecting I follow a friend of mines mantra that passed last year "Anything worth doing is worth overdoing."

 

[Jack88]

Hard to argue. You have to be careful of the tip though.

This is what I've been carrying lately, Jack. I'm no pilot, so I don't know how useful some of the tools are to you, but I like this thing. The glass cutter, as you can imagine will need replacing but they factored that in to the design. I mean I really like this thing, bar the liner lock for the main blade is on the wrong side.

This is my "tactilol" folder knife.

Yep, I like Emersons. Especially the better ones in the cheap Kershaw Emerson range for the very reason that they're cheap.

I like the handling of this knife so much I bought two. One to use now, and one for when it's completely fubar. I also bought two CQC-4KXL's but they are less practical with tips that definitely look weaker.

Not as useful as when I was on the maintainer side of operations for sure, but the shitty survival knife in my kit at the moment is certainly eclipsed by what its my pocket. (Eventually I'll be able to grab my own survival knife not atm) Do like the look on the Emersons, they seem like fighters.

Yup! I also have or have had all of the Knives listed, and I chose CRK. Go with whichever CRK catches your eye. I'm really enjoying the Large Inkosi. Large because I, too, am large & Inkosi because I enjoy the ball interface. Para 2 and XM-18 are a tie for 2nd. P2 would win if cost edges out competition & XM would win if bomber robust build takes priority.

Yeah I gave my little Fallkniven PXL to my lady, too small in the hand. I'd rather have the knife be on the large side as well. Does seem like this is the line of thinking most are giving me.

View attachment 729578 Starbenza 25. The newer Inkozi has some minor improvements, but not enough for me to ditch this one for an Inkozi. The new Inkozi Insigno is tempting me though.

This knife is very tempting and near the top of the list.

You're right about the Seb or Zaan, Slash, but that 801 is a helluva deal at current prices--a Ti framelock with Elmax on bearings and nice handle milling/ergos. I can't say I've used mine much as it's been very nicely pimped to the point of virtual safe-queen-ness, but it's a pretty sweet knife.

Damn good looking knife, I've heard good things about ZT's.

I'm not insinuating CRK, Hinderer, Strider won't stand up to real use; however, will YOU be willing to put YOUR $400 knife into real use? If that's going to be tough for you, I recommend a Spyderco, PM2, GB2 or Military. They will all be a huge step up from your CRKT. I always reach for my PM2 when I have real work to do, and it never disappoints. Given that it's flat and fairly light, it should carry awesomely in a flight suit.

The GB2 strikes me as a bargain for a well made hard use folder that's almost tuxedo clad--it and the XM-18 Bowie are on my want list, but that niche in my collection is pretty full (and money is tight).

The 'Zaan and 21 are both great knives, but for some reason the 'Zaan gives me a little something extra. Maybe it just feels more substantial--I definately love the blade shape.

I thought my son had an M-16 around for a comparison pic, turns out it's an M-14 which is a pretty large knife. Note the PM2 looks a little more stubby in the pic than in real life due to perspective. (Tanto 'Zaan)

View attachment 729592

Here's a 21 thrown in for comparison. (Regular 'Zaan). Note that perspective is still in play, this time making the insingo look a hair smaller relative to the others.

View attachment 729591

Perhaps the PM2 doesn't look too sexy beside the others in those pics. IMO it's beauty comes from design, function, utility, and price point. The 'Zaan is just pure awesomeness though. The GB2 might sit in a good spot between the two, which is why I want one so badly.

ETA: I agree with what others are saying about the 0801. Hard to beat for the price and it's the best flipping action of all my knives. It might be a bit heavy for a flight suit, but carries well in jeans and such. It's thick behind the edge.

Wow! What a collection, yeah my CRKT is certainly smaller than that one. So I have two different pockets I can comfortably carry my knife on and one will allow a large knife. I'm unsure though if it will get in the way of my survival kit, something I'll have to check.

Something about the CRK brand just says quality and perfection, I am however in love with the blade shape on the Hinderer Bowie. Just looks rugged and like a fighter. I'm nearly certain I'll be buying a PM2 on the side as well. It seems like a trend with CRK owners who have multiple of the knives in saying they prefer the 'Zaan.

I have owned a lot of tactical folders. So far in the 30 years Ive been collecting I cant remember ever being as happy with a folder as I am with my steelcraft bodega from todd begg knives. Yes they are made in china by reate but they are so much more than an average production knife. IMHO they really elevate Chinese knife making to an artform. Begg knives didn't just send them a cad file and say "make it as close as you can" they taught David Deng (owner and knifemaker) various techniques to help Reate make the best knives they can possibly make and its really starting to show. The finishes alone on these knives really help one understand why they cost what they do. $460 seems like a lot of money. But when you see all the little details and just how well they execute those details you get to appreciate the value these knives actually offer. Truly a knife you have to hold to appreciate. Fit finish and function is some of the best I have seen.


Another great thing about this particular knife is if you choose the hand satin finish as they are also handground which is not the case with the black or two tone blades.

View attachment 729625 View attachment 729626

Haven't seen these before, I will investigate further.

 

[Cutlover]

Thats funny, at my time of voting, Strider is the only one with 0 votes. For good reason.

I went with Spyderco Para, good place to start and isn't as expensive in case you don't like it.

 

[Jack88]

Hi Jack,
These are my favorite EDCs over 3"
Gayle Bradley 2 and BM 940-1

Of the ones you mentioned, I envision you with a Hinderer.

Haha feel like we're becoming knife pals, having car issues ATM.... have some errands to do but already started scoping some wood that I could test out the NL1 on this afternoon/tonight

 

[whp]

I've seen these! What makes it unique from the Sebenza? Just the star burst pattern and the Wilson marking on the clip? Anything else? Have to say I kind of wish they left the blue thumb stud, part of the Sebenza look to me.



It does seem that Umnumzaan users swear by them heavily compared to other CRK users. What gives it the fighter aspect? I've seen a couple of people say this but haven't been able to figure it out. Does it deploy quickly?



Copy, thanks for the suggestion! I hadn't seen one before. Seems to be extremely good value compared to the competition.



The amount of respect I've seen the PM2 carry makes me think I'll be picking one up on the side no matter what. The price tag is reasonable enough to do so, the knife itself seems like a solid fighter.

Interesting for the CS Recon being your carrier, do you heavily use your knives too much to justify carrying your more expensive knives?

I ve never carried my most expensive knives for heavy outdoor work. Any knife with a price tag north of 400 dollars is just too uncomfortable for me to use too hard even though they might stand up to it fine. I m not sure I understand it myself.
I do know that working around moisture and perspiration with a metal handled knife is not good. I also know a well made strong knife of good materials with good ergonomics and good balance and relatively light weight is not that easily found. Don t be fooled by the low price of the Recon1. Comparable to the classic Military and 710, but seems more sturdy than either.
Try to hold one in hand. My favorite is the spear point blade, but the clip point is also very nice.
If spending a lot of money makes you feel better about the purchase ,I understand that. But it may not be necessary. Just sayin.

 

[Jack88]

I ve never carried my most expensive knives for heavy outdoor work. Any knife with a price tag north of 400 dollars is just too uncomfortable for me to use too hard even though they might stand up to it fine. I m not sure I understand it myself.
I do know that working around moisture and perspiration with a metal handled knife is not good. I also know a well made strong knife of good materials with good ergonomics and good balance and relatively light weight is not that easily found. Don t be fooled by the low price of the Recon1. Comparable to the classic Military and 710, but seems more sturdy than either.
Try to hold one in hand. My favorite is the spear point blade, but the clip point is also very nice.
If spending a lot of money makes you feel better about the purchase ,I understand that. But it may not be necessary. Just sayin.

I will admit, its the same with all my weapons (my guns especially) I just like using the best. Maybe I'm a gear snob? Probably, weapons are something I've always enjoyed collecting and a folding knife would get more use than anything else in my arsenal.

Have some other questions here:

Has anyone used the glass breaker on the Umnumzaan? Think it would break plexi glass?

Has the availability of the Hinderer changed, I've seen all these reviews of people saying they were marked up nearly 2x in most places and out of stock everywhere else... Not trying to break the rules with places, I know, but I see it in stock in a few places. Just curious if the supply situation has changed.

What do people think of damascus blades? I've always wanted to own one... this may be an opportunity... quite expensive, but I'm getting a very large raise in 3 weeks. Buying a new truck tomorrow also!

 

[Ajack60]

I've got two CRK's in Damascus that are in my edc rotation. Depending on use, the etching on the Damascus will fade. CRK will only re etch it one time.
One of mine is starting to wear, but still looks sexy. CRK uses Devin Thomas Damascus and you can look up the info on their website for the steel they use.
So far, all the recommendations have been great and any that have been mentioned are not bad choices.
The question is, which one speaks the most to you, that's the one to get.

 

[ChazzyP]

Has the availability of the Hinderer changed, I've seen all these reviews of people saying they were marked up nearly 2x in most places and out of stock everywhere else... Not trying to break the rules with places, I know, but I see it in stock in a few places. Just curious if the supply situation has changed.

There's currently great availability for new Hinderers, though certain options in certain models may require a bit of patience and searching. Prices on the secondary market are generally lower than new, proportional to other makers' knives, and there are some good deals to be had on the Exchange. A few rarer or discontinued models may command a premium.

Here's my current favorite MP1 Hinderer alongside another favorite mid-tech--Olamic 247. Both are in the same price range as large CRKs other than Plain Janes.