looking for a good "Tactical Folder" in the $40-$80.00 range

R

Rocca

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Feb 24, 2011
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Ive looked around and havent found a post on this yet. I fits already been discussed a link would be very helpful.

I'm looking to get a good tactical folder but at the moment I dont have a ton to spend. I like the feel of the Spyderco Native. Fit well in my hand and nice grip. But I'd like something with just a bit longer blade I think.

Any reccomendations would be appreciated.
Thanks guys,
 
I don't think the Cold Steel Recon 1 or the American Lawman has any serious competition at that price range.
 
I agree with the two above mentioned Cold Steel models. I think they're good values for the money.

I also like the Meyerco/Lambert Shockwave which can be had for around $50.
 
Another option would be the Spyderco Endura Wave. It's not completely geared towards tactical use like the Cold Steel ones, but it does have a following for tactical use.
 
I'd vote manix 2. Though I don't really see it as being "tactical", I know others do.
 
I agree that the Manix 2 would serve well in the role and it's a good value at $80ish.

Jordan
 
+1 for Cold Steel Recon 1

60 dollar street value, excellent handle, lightweight, triad lock, aus8 steel, but good heat treat done by cold steel.

Also look for their new voyagers in stonewashed aus8 coming this summer, they should be cheaper, but they look good in the picture!
 
I would recommend a kershaw RAM. It feels very similar to the Native in the hand due to the finger choil. It also deploys very fast and has excellent and very solid lock up. Also it is available in all black which should satisfy your tactical jonesing. It's one of my absolute favs.
 
Manix 2 is definitely my choice for those parameters, so make sure that whatever others you consider put the Manix on the short list!
 
What about a full size griptilian?

Again, not a full on "tactical" knife, but solid construction, good size blade, good handle and excellent lockup.

I think the native is much to small. The Endura is great and I think the cold steel options are fine as well.
 
I was about to suggest a Benchmade Griptillian, too. Very solid feeling knife. Nice lock, too. Essentially what the guy above me said :D
 
Don't forget the Cold Steel AK-47 and Spartan, if you want a wave-style opening. The AK-47 is much lighter, which is good for the EDC emergency defensive role. Also, the new Voyagers should be out soon, and they look promising for the defensive role as well.

Kershaw has the Blur and JYD II. If you go for the JYD, you'll likely want or need to do a clip mod of some sort, but the knife is excellent enough to warrant the extra work.

Spyderco has the Endura and Resilience.

The CRKT Ripple could be pressed into the tactical role, especially if you need a suit-coat tactical. I like the M16 series too, but I'm not sure if I'd recommend it for others.

Blemished ZT 0200s can be had for just a little over your limit shipped, which equates to something at your limit before shipping.

The Ontario RAT-1 comes in at or little under our low limit after shipping, and deserves a mention.

The Benchmade Griptilian is a solid knife square in the middle of your price range.

Some people like the SOG Trident and Flash II, but they have too muc blade play for me.


Overall, I think the Griptilian might be the best value in the range.

Edit: Ha, I accidentally ended up giving the third Griptilian recommendation in 3 minutes.
 
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Cold Steel Recon, Manix 2, and no one has mentioned the Spyderco Resilience. That's at the low end of your budget, but it's a quality blade.
 
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