Manbug vs. Ladybug Sell me on one or the other

S

SpyderManBH

Joined
Apr 22, 2015
Messages
25
Im looking to get a blade for my keys and ive narrowed it down to these two choices, which one should i get?
 
Tough call. The wider handle of the Manbug allows for a more secure grip but I prefer the thinner blade stock and blade shape of the Ladybug.
 
Last Christmas I bought my mom a Ladybug and my dad a Manbug. The Manbug sits in the valet tray in my dad's office. The Ladybug lives on my mother's keychain.

W1wYpo1.jpg


When I took that pic I checked the blade to see how sharp it still was. I found the blade covered in tape residue and the like. I beamed with pride as she was actually using it :)!

My vote is for the Ladybug as it is the one that actually gets used. The Manbug is beefier but at that size beefiness is a moot point IMO.
 
I've owned a few (Manbug ZDP-189, Manbug G-10 Ladybug ZDP-189, SE Ladybug Salt, SE Ladybug Salt Hawkbill) and still own most. You can't go wrong with either, they're very similar.

That said, I like the Manbug a little more, for the belly, a better tip and FFG. The advantage to the Ladybug is that you can get H1 if you need rust resistance (I have a SE Ladybug Salt on my motorcycle key) although the Manbug has the G-10 model which is very nice for a knife its size. It really just depends on your needs/wants, but for most people I would recommend either the ZDP-189 Manbug or a Ladybug Salt, depending on your needs (The ZDP Ladybug is also FFG).
 
Last edited:
LadyBug on the keychain is very handy. I tried several and finally settled on the H-1 fully serrated blade one.
 
I prefer the blade shape of the Ladybug myself.

Also, if a hawkbill will work for you then look at the Ladybug Salt Hawkbill. I carry one in my watch pocket everyday and it is a little chainsaw. :)
 
Either one is better than nothing. I went with the Man Bug and use the crap out of it. I have scored, snapped and cut sheetrock with it while in the store not wanting to handle a full sheet.

 
If you are talking the standard versions, the Manbug wins. It is easier to hold and the blade is useful for more types of tasks due to design. Also, many have reported that the Ladybug can develop a little blade play, but the Manbug does not seem to be afflicted with this. Of the two, I chose the Manbug, but I went with the G10. It is a classy little knife, very handsome.
 
I prefer the Manbug too, the handle is a little bigger and the blade is a little thicker.... I have the zdp189 version and it's working everyday in the office without problems...
04676380-532E-4A34-AAB7-61085EADC378_zpsqktdaa1f.jpg
 
Last edited:
I had a Ladybug also all versions of Manbug, but the one i kept and carry every day is the VG10 Manbug with a short lanyard with a false Turks Head knot so it fits my hand just right for OHO.

K9tuqefl.jpg
 
Spyderco really needs to expand its offerings for the Manbug. I see the need for a Salt and a hawkbill, as well as some that are "purdy" to look at.
 
I got the girlfriend a stainless steel Ladybug in VG10 and she's been using the hell out of it, great for opening packages, small cutting jobs (think office environment, where you can't whip out a serrated Endura). I got a Ladybug Salt Hawkbill in H1 on my keys and it's great for outdoor activities like fishing or hiking, the hawkbill is great for cutting rope, fishing line, picking at things, etc. Plus the bright yellow colour makes it difficult to lose it.

I would get a Manbug but I also have a Leatherman Squirt on my keys so I don't really need another plain blade. Although that ZDP-189 one does seem enticing, would be a good match for my ZDP Delica.

[edit: Here's a pic of Lil' Pokey]
9Jq97F5.jpg
 
Last edited:
Ive never held a manbug but i got a few ladybugs, i like the way it feel in the hand, and rinds on a keychain really easy, its not that big but can still pull its own weight.
 
Ladybug gets my vote!



i do like the manbug for FFG on the VG10 models though. I'm thinking about having my VG10 LB done FFG
 
Another vote for the Ladybug3. I own both and my ZDP189 LB3 rides on my Keychain everyday. I am interested in the Jester though.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top