Manix 2 - which one?

[zkiller195]

Also, any comments about the Sage 3? Does it have the same lock mechanism as the Manix 2, just in a Taiwan model? How is it?

I don't think anyone has answered this yet. They are not the same lock. The Manix has a Ball Bearing lock but the Sage 3 has a Bolt Action Lock. The way they work is very similar, just one uses a caged BB and the other uses a bolt to lock the blade tang into place. In my experience, both have their advantages.

Sage 3 Bolt Lock:
+ Smoother action, less force required
+ Looks nicer, metal bolt for release mechanism
- Bolt is shallow and harder to get a good purchase on

Ball Bearing Lock:
-Requires more force to open
-Release mechanism is the plastic ball bearing cage. Not as aesthetically appealing
+Ball Bearing cage grips easily and well

Although I hate to admit it, neither one is as good as Benchmade's Axis lock, especially when it comes to ease of disengaging. That been said, I think Spyderco makes superior knives overall and either of these knives is a solid knife with a good locking system (I have owned a Sage 3 and currently have a Manix2 Sprint Run in CTS-BD30P).
One other note: The Manix2 probably has the best ergonomics of any Spyderco I own or have owned (I would even place it above the Caly3, Paramilitary 2, and Stretch).

 

[JarrodS]

@Rasco - Speaking for myself, as I mentioned it is merely a prejudice. I don't think I will break it - generally I just prefer a solid-feeling knife. I will say that since I wrote the original post, I took delivery on a ZDP-189 Endura, which has milled steel liners *and* FRN scales. Love it - great compromise - still light weight without having a toyish feel. Baby steps I guess.

 

[JarrodS]

Well I couldn't decide and in any case neither one of the two I'm most interested in were in stock anywhere. But in my searching I found a great buy on the all-black XL. So I took the plunge on the big one, even though I kind of doubt I'll use it for EDC. We'll see...having a big sturdy Spyderco might come in handy.