Mini CQC-15 vs Mini Commander

[MementoMori99]

I am seriously considering the purchase of either the mini cqc-15 or mini commander. Do either of them come with phosphor bronze washers? Do either of them have any known side-to-side play issues? Do either of them have any known liner lock issues? Which of the two is physically lighter? The only indirect experience that I have had with an Emerson is that I own a Kershaw Emerson CQC-6K. It's handle closely resembles that of the mini commander. Why would one prefer one over the other? Any input would be very much appreciated. Thanks in advance.

 

[Jamesh Bond]

I have the Mini Com and Kershaw. They feel nothing alike. All Emersons have Nylatron washers. Play on all mine is nonexistent. The the Mini 15 may cramp your hand depending on size.

 

[DRK]

I own the mini 15. The ergos of this knife are exceptional and the blade grind is fantastic. I wear a large size glove if that helps with size. My other Emerson's have both been CQC7's so I can't comment on the mini commander. I would sell some of the other knives I own but I wouldn't part with the mini 15.

 

[dalefuller]

I have both and I wouldn't part with either one. Both are comfortable for me to hold and use. I'm 5'11" and have average sized hands for my height (3.5" across the palm). The biggest difference to me is the blade profile. The CQC15 blade style will give you a bit more piercing capability because of the tip. The Commander is a great slicer with that belly on the recurve blade and still has a usable tip.

The nylatron washers will likely last as long as the rest of the knife does.

 

[jdmoore]

I have both the Mini CQC15 and Mini Commander and I have to agree with Dale, I won't be selling either of them. One thing I will say is that the Mini 15 is great because it features a very gentle recurved blade along with the Tanto tip. Makes it a really great hybrid that does great slicing or piercing. The Mini 15 is also a great blade for those who haven't used a recurved blade before because of how slight it is, where as the Mini Comm has a more aggressive recurve in the blade. Both have zero blade play, as is the standard with what I've seen from Emerson. The Mini 15 has a pretty deep inset in the scales where your fingers can really grip the handle, and won't slide at all regardless of what grip you use. The Mini Comm has a really nice finger choil in the handle that your index finger will fit perfectly in, and is really comfortable. The rest of the handle has lesser finger recesses that make your hand feel really secure and comfortable.

 

[EChoil]

Go with the 15. It has a better tip and less recurve to deal with when cutting OR sharpening.