Martin, Smith, Hinderer Folders ??

[Old Smith]

I am looking to get a new folder or two and was looking for some thoughts on a few folders that look good (in pictures, at least) to me. Some of the makers that I am considering are R. J. Martin, John Smith, Brian Tighe, Rick Hinderer, and Brad Duncan.

If anyone would care to comment on knives they have from these makers, as well as their experience dealing with them, I would appreciate it.

Thanks

 

[Bastid]

I have to say that you have chosen well. There are quite a few others who will also build a great knife that I would recommend, but you already have things down to tough choices. (No reason to make your decision tougher.) All of the folks you mention will build you a knife that will be a pleasure to own (and use) and you will enjoy your contact with any of them. At this point in your decision, I would check out the designs of each and pick the style that you like the best.

 

[FrankDL]

All of those makers you've mentioned are "top-drawer" guys! Like Bastid says, just find a style you like and go with it, cuz there's no way you could go wrong with anything from them. Liner-locks, frame-locks, blade steel type, blade shape, tip-up, tip down, handle material, are just some of the many features which you need to consider for your particular situation.

Knives I've had by those makers:

Brad Duncan's - "Whiplash" liner-lock and found it to be one of the smoothest opening folders around. Craftsmanship is immaculate. I've spoken to Brad and he's fine gentleman too.

Randy Martin - While I've only had Randy's fixed blades, his craftsmanship is also superb, and the sharpness of the blade he delivers is legendary. Randy is a super guy and smart as they come.

J.W. Smith - I had one of his revolution liner-locks. Flawless work. From the posts I've read from collectors, he probably has the most prestigous reputation of the group you list.

I could mention at least a hundred more equally tallented makers out there, but I was just trying to stick to your list.

Good luck on your search, and any knife you get from any of those guys will be well worth the effort!

Best,
Frank