Looking for a new EDC folder - suggestions please?

[kya]

I'm far from an expert but it was my understanding that although edge retention is comparable, D2 does not possess much corrosion resistance. I would hazard a guess that 154CM would cost more than D2 in equal weight.

Like I said earlier, D2 is generally considered to have better edge retention than 154CM. As for corrosion resistance, D2 is on the boarder line between stainless and non-stainless, so it is decently stain resistant. I live in Hawaii, with the beach down the street from my house, and I haven't had any issues with corrosion (of course none of the knives are actually being taken to the beach or getting wet by the salt water).

As for the cost, well Benchmades with D2 usually cost more than 154CM from what I can see.

 

[K.Berge]

How about a tanto mini grip?

 

[displacedtexan]

Mini Grip is to small. Does the regular Grip have a tanto option? I hate tanto blades, so I tune then out...

I'd much rather have D2 than 154-CM, D2 is an awesome steel.

 

[dalefuller]

I think you'll find that D2 is an excellent steel for an EDC knife. It has exceptional edge holding capability as Benchmade treats it and it's a very tough steel. It can take some heavy use. I've had several D2 folders from BM. I still carry a Bone Colletor frequently. I've never had a problem with corrosion on any of them here in Georgia.

I'll add another vote for the 14255 even though it's a hair shorter than your wish list. H&K knives from BM are exceptional in F&F and performance. I have a 14210 and a 14205 that I really love to carry and use.

I've never owned an Emerson so I can't speak about their knives. I would suggest that you check the edge profile on any Emerson model that you're interested in. IIRC, they do their edges a it differently than most.

 

[res1cue]

I'm far from an expert but it was my understanding that although edge retention is comparable, D2 does not possess much corrosion resistance. I would hazard a guess that 154CM would cost more than D2 in equal weight.

The Benchmade Warn that was recommended does seem to have the least flaws according to my original criteria I guess. The Super CQC-7B and ZT 0400 both still use basic liner locks which is a little puzzling considering their reputations and pricing.

actually i think d2 is more expensive by weight..

most people consider it one of the best steels in the industry

 

[albinokoala]

Like I said earlier, D2 is generally considered to have better edge retention than 154CM. As for corrosion resistance, D2 is on the boarder line between stainless and non-stainless, so it is decently stain resistant. I live in Hawaii, with the beach down the street from my house, and I haven't had any issues with corrosion (of course none of the knives are actually being taken to the beach or getting wet by the salt water).

As for the cost, well Benchmades with D2 usually cost more than 154CM from what I can see.

Mini Grip is to small. Does the regular Grip have a tanto option? I hate tanto blades, so I tune then out...

I'd much rather have D2 than 154-CM, D2 is an awesome steel.

actually i think d2 is more expensive by weight..

most people consider it one of the best steels in the industry

I did not realize D2 was so highly regarded. Perhaps because it has been around so long it just does not seem as exotic as some of the newer steels and hence my bias against it. I stand corrected then and will probably go with the Benchmade Warn since it seems to be the best all arounder.

A lot of people are also recommending the HK 14255 and giving it high praise in this thread so I may need to take another look at it.

 

[thejamppa]

D2's only real weakness is that its really pain in the behind to sharpen unless you have diamond hoans. Anything else and prepeare to use lot's of elbow grease and even more time... but once you get it sharp, it will keep its edge really well.

 

[migo]

Depending on how soon you need to get it, I'm waiting for my Kershaw RAM to arrive which pretty much nails everything (doesn't have assisted open, but that's also a liability if it breaks), and I'll report back on how it works.

 

[albinokoala]

D2's only real weakness is that its really pain in the behind to sharpen unless you have diamond hoans. Anything else and prepeare to use lot's of elbow grease and even more time... but once you get it sharp, it will keep its edge really well.

Shouldn't be a problem as I prefer to sharpen less often even if it takes longer when necessary.

Depending on how soon you need to get it, I'm waiting for my Kershaw RAM to arrive which pretty much nails everything (doesn't have assisted open, but that's also a liability if it breaks), and I'll report back on how it works.

I noticed the blade on it is on the short side and I don't see a tanto version for the Kershaw RAM.

 

[jeffzerot]

Love the CQC-7 but I would also look at the Hogue- Elishewitz Extreme 01 4" tanto, meets most if not all your needs. I have mine on order and can't wait.

 

[migo]

I noticed the blade on it is on the short side and I don't see a tanto version for the Kershaw RAM.

Oh! It has sort of a tanto shape on the dull edge, that's what I was remembering. Guess it won't do the trick for you then.

 

[albinokoala]

Love the CQC-7 but I would also look at the Hogue- Elishewitz Extreme 01 4" tanto, meets most if not all your needs. I have mine on order and can't wait.

The EX01 looks like a very well made knife. Did you get the one with the G10 or aluminum? The lock strength also seems pretty decent although the Axis is probably still stronger.