Tightwad: I think I can post some comparisions now. I don't really use knives in a "hard use" way. My EDC will continue to be an Emerson Commander which I beat up quite a bit. Everything else in my collection gets used very lightly.
Most likely some folks will think I am crazy to even give any comparisons between the 2X Voyager and the Maxx. The Maxx certainly has the superior workmanship, materials and current high tech trends in knife design.
However, if I had to choose between the Maxx and the 2X Voyager for a beat 'em up knife, I would choose the Voyager. They Voyager is much less expensive than the Maxx an therefore I have less concerns about abusing it. The Voyager is more than strong enough for my daily use. The lock is strong, the steel is easily resharpened, it holds an edge well enough.
The Maxx however, uses far better material than the Voyager and looks very much like a custom knife. I really like the flipper use and the way the Maxx easily opens. Much faster opening than my giant Voyager, SIFU and TOPS Magnum. It is the only knife I own which is designed to be flicked open (other than my autos and Speed Safe knives). The Maxx design and workmanship is really great, and it opens and closes so-o-o-o very smoothly.
The Maxx also rides better in my bluejean front pocket than my Voyager. The Titanium handle seems to cut the weight down quite a bit. Last night we were out "on the town" on our HD (motorcycle), and I carried the Maxx in a sheath. It fits great in a XL ballistic nylon sheath from Brigade Quartermasters. A perfect way to carry this big knife, if you like sheath carry.
I think you will find the handle color on the second Maxx production run to be superior to that of the first run. I saw one of the knives from the first run, in a store last week. The handle color was quite "blotchy", just like many people reported in this forum. I ordered mine from the second batch, and it came though very very even in color. Quite beautiful.
Another comparison between the Maxx and 2X Voyager is the feedback from non knife people. The Voyager is much nastier looking than the Maxx. The Voyager 6" blade is really giant and non knife folks gasp if they see it. I think the 2X Voyager is the largest production folder made. The Maxx is more of a custom looking knife and not really that nasty looking. Non knife people, and knife folk, like the custom look.
The Voyager handle is also much more comfortable than the Maxx handle. I don't particularly care for the cheap appearance of Zytel, but it is comfortable. The Maxx handle is great looking and high tech, but is kind of "cold and slab like" to the touch.
Hope this helps. If I had to rate my large folders (in terms of which would be a strong beat 'em up, daily user)I would list them as follows.
#1: Tops Magnum
#2: 2X CS Voyager
#3: Maxx 5.5
#4: REKAT SIFU
