Manix & Lockbacks

S

sorridsky

Joined
Feb 25, 2003
Messages
54
I've been playing with an AL Mar SERE 2000 for a few days now. I've got it from a pass around. I really really, really like it. However, it's a rubbish slicer. It would have filled my outdoor folder slot perfectly if it was a full flat ground. But as another option I've read loads of good things about the Manix.
But, I'm wondering how smooth a lockback is?

A great feature of the SERE and liner locks in general is that it's soooo smooth. I can just flick the thumb stud casually and it whizzes open like it's spring loaded. Or one can open it using inertia without even touching the blade.
Is that possible with the manix? Or does one have to manualy push the blade out, and most of the way round?

Does anyone have anything to say in regard to comparing the two knives? They seem to be similar beasts, are they comparible in handling as well and specs?
 
Well, I've had the SERE for a while, got it second-hand for leather sheath projects. I have to say I like it, the action is smooth, and I get this clicky feeling when I close the knife.

I only got Manix last week, and I love it. Specifically the handle, it just fits my hand amazingly well. Out of all the folders I own I would probably rate the handle ergonomics as a perfect 10, same as the Gunting. And of course dual steel liners, solid back and full flat grind make it a very good cutter. Not to mention S30V.

Side by side, Manix is larger, but not by much. But SERE is actually quite a bit thicker, and has no back on the handle. Right now Manix would definitely be my preferred choice out of the two. Mine is tight, but that is intentional, flickable knives are illegal here, and the action is very smooth, quite silky actually. Much better than the gritty Paramilitary I got.

Pics:
manix_sere.jpg
 
Due to the camming action of the lockback it will never be as frictionless as a liner (or compression lock for that matter), but the heavy blade makes (for me at least) inertial opening rather easy. With just a little help from the thumb, I can casually flick it open (even though you are not supposed to).

Nice pics Vess. Love your sheaths by the way. Got to handle one with the Chinook passaround and was totally blown away.
 
Thank you for the pictures. You’re too kind! :)

They look of comparable width, however you mention that the SERE is thicker, by how much so incidentally? As that is one of the things I like about the SERE; that it fills the hand unlike many 'tactical' folders.
 
SERE handle is a bit over 14mm thick, and Manix is a bit over 12mm. Basically take away the thickness of the chamfered part of the handle of the SERE on one side, and you've got the Manix handle thickness.

I really like the butt of the handle on the Manix, it hooks over my fingers and I can cut with a lot less grip on the handle. And overall the handle just fits my hand better. But that's subjective... :)
 
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