Microtech Socom, M.O.D. CQD, or????

[daoud]

I recently got a Microtech Mini Socom, and at first I was sort of wondering what I just paid quite a lot of money for- even used, it wasn't cheap. But the more I carried it the more I liked it. It's just totally rock-solid, and although I don't generally like all-metal handle scales, the jimping and the non-slip rubber insert make for a feel I really like. And the design, with the guard is sort of like an Al Mar SERE. At any rate, it is a real favorite of mine now.

However, it's a bit small. Full-sized Socoms are hard to come by, and pretty expensive when you do find them. So I'm looking for something very similar, made in the U.S.A. I've been looking at the M.O.D. CQD, but I'm getting confused. I know the M.O.D. CQDs are U.S.- made, but now I guess they're made by Blackhawk, and I know at least some of their knives are made in China. I had one once and the quality was very good, but these days I only buy American or Japanese blades.

So I'm wondering if anyone can shed some light on where the Blackhawk CQDs are made, I'd appreciate it. And if anyone has any ideas about something similar that's something other than Blackhawk I'd love to hear them- I'm just not too wild about the seatbelt cutter/glass breaker thing- optimally I'd prefer something simple, like the Socom, but easier to find and considerably cheaper! Thanks in advance-d

 

[effer]

In the old days MOD was very close in quality to Microtech knives. Prices of those two were very close also. Original MODs are no longer produced. Blackhawks are a different story. They do make many original MOD designs. They are functional, but not as well made. They also downgraded materials to make them cheaper.

Take a look at Spyderco Military. It is bigger than mini, with similar blade shape.
Hogue knives also remind me a lot of old Microtech and MOD.

 

[mesoscopic]

I happen to have a Blackhawk-made MOD CQD Mark 2 Type E (AUS-8A/Zytel frame) which is made in Taiwan.

 

[daoud]

Thanks! I have quite a few Spydies and I love 'em, but I 'm really in love with the kind of flared handle design of the CQD and the Socom- just really comfortable for me, and I like the way they look. So I guess if I get a CQD I'd better get an old M.O.D. model. I've seen some of the Hogues and they look really nice. Maybe I'd better go back and take a second look! I appreciate the comeback.