Looking for a good, cheap, tank utility folder

V

VR4

Joined
Jan 29, 2010
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243
Something tells me I can't have all three but here it goes anyway! The style I'm going for is probably considered "tactical" but I think that's the most overused term in the knife industry and I'm not going to be stabbing anyone with it so I'm trying to stay away from that.

There are quite a few Emerson's that would fit the bill but they're a little expensive for what I want. There are some great looking ZTs as well, but again, they're a little more than I want to spend. Same story with the Spyderco Military but I don't know much about the rest of their overwhelmingly large line.

Here's exactly what I'm looking for and the must haves:

Plain edge in either tanto (preferred) or a tough spearpoint. I don't want any extreme recurves. I also don't want a shiny blade but I'd be willing to make a concession there.

Ambidextrous clip - I'm a lefty. Tip up and tip down option would be nice but not neccessary.

Really want G10 on the handle but just don't want crappy plastic.

Adjustable pivot screw (I think that's what it's called)

Around $50 with a hard limit at $75. New or used is fine.


I've seen the Cold Steel Recon 1 in tanto but it looks so flashy in the 'tacticool' sort of way that I'm not sure I could get past that.

Big kudos to anyone that can help me out here!
 
How about a Spyderco Manix2 in 154CM?

Definitely one of Spyderco's toughest knives, can be found for $70. The ball bearing lock is ambidextrous too, with G10 handles and left clip. No tip down though because of the lock position.
 
Kenix said:
How about a Spyderco Manix2 in 154CM?

Definitely one of Spyderco's toughest knives, can be found for $70. The ball bearing lock is ambidextrous too, with G10 handles and left clip. No tip down though because of the lock position.
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Wow, that was fast! That knife looks killer and fits the bill pretty much perfectly. It's at the highend of my price point but I think if I can find one used for a bit cheaper I'll be in business! Thanks, Kenix:thumbup:
 
Cold Steel AK-47... one of the toughest folders made, can be had with G-10, will "wave open, pocket clip is moveable, the Japanese AUS 8A Stainless steel, is vacuum heat treated, and sub zero quenched resulting in a blade that will take a great edge, is easy to sharpen, and had very good edge retention. The lock is one of the strongest on the market today and you can adjust the pivot. And they can be found online for $75.00.

Mine is not the G-10 version but I cannot speak highly enough of this knife if a "tank" is what you are looking for.

tsubaak47heritagecopy.jpg
 
While the spyderco knives are nice, they will not stack up to a ZT. If you really want a ZT, contact kershawguy here and ask what he has coming in. His prices are excellent, and 99.9% of the time you cannot find the blem.
 
I have to admit that I love my Cold Steel American Lawman. I've had it for roughly 2 weeks and it's taken everything I've thrown at it with a smile. Still locks up perfect with zero play. The Tri-Ad lock is solid. It's a helluva knife for the money. MOF, I'll be getting a few to give as Christmas presents this year. I think it meets most, if not all, of your requirements including the left hand pocket clip. :thumbup::thumbup:
 
VR4 said:
Wow, that was fast! That knife looks killer and fits the bill pretty much perfectly. It's at the highend of my price point but I think if I can find one used for a bit cheaper I'll be in business! Thanks, Kenix:thumbup:
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You can email me if you wish
 
Splat said:
I have to admit that I love my Cold Steel American Lawman. I've had it for roughly 2 weeks and it's taken everything I've thrown at it with a smile. Still locks up perfect with zero play. The Tri-Ad lock is solid. It's a helluva knife for the money. MOF, I'll be getting a few to give as Christmas presents this year. I think it meets most, if not all, of your requirements including the left hand pocket clip. :thumbup::thumbup:
Click to expand...

Currently that is one of the best affordable folders on the market IMO.
 
Personnally, I'd recommend saving up a bit more and/or looking for a second hand market ZT or whatever other knife you have a hankerin' for. In the long run, you'll probably be happier.

I have a Cold Steel LAWMAN and Spyderco MANIX 2 and like them. As an EDC I'd go MANIX 2, though, as I find the lock more convenient to use.
 
Second the Ak-47. Built every bit as tough as my G10 Tyrade. You have to hold one to appreciate what a monster it is.
 
CS lawman 60$
ka-bar dozier bobcat 40$
RAT-1 folder in black 27$
any of these will fill your needs, you could buy all 3 for the price of a benchmade or spydie millie(which is great)
 
crom said:
Second the Ak-47. Built every bit as tough as my G10 Tyrade. You have to hold one to appreciate what a monster it is.
Click to expand...

The Cold Steel website says this model is discontinued???

Are they still available from dealers?
 
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