Mini Manix or Para-Military

[spikedog]

Ok so this is another one of those either/or threads, but I would welcome some help on choosing my next knife. Its use would fit the hard use outdoor catagory (i.e. camping, fishing, whittling, boyscouts, etc.). The size is not a problem because I think it would be carried in a coat or back pocket.

Thanks,
SD

 

[kgriggs8]

They are both great knives. It is really a personal choice on that one. The Mini-Manix is a little heavier and bulkier but it is probably a little stronger (maybe, I heard the compression lock is pretty strong). It just sort of boils down to which one you like and what you need it for.

For me, I like the Mini-Manix but I also have a full sized Manix. I can't really envision a situation where the Mini would be a better option than the full sized version. If I am going to carry the Mini-Manix, I might as well carry the full sized version and be done with it. The full sized Manix is not that much bigger or heavier. I guess the same can be said of the Paramilitary and the regular Military. The only difference is, there are actually times when the smaller blade of the Para actually seems to work better. The Military has quite a large blade and sometimes it gets in it's own way I think.

My advice, check them both out in person and see what you like. You really can't go wrong with either of them.

 

[spikedog]

Thanks!

I like your point about the full-size Manix. This looks like a great chioce and I will now consider it.

 

[jackreacher]

I think the full size Manix is a little heavey to carry around in your pocket. When I EDC mine I always carry it on my belt in a sheath. As far as the Spyderco Military goes I carry it in my front pocket in jeans or slacks with no problem. It is very light and thin.

 

[Kaizen1]

One thing about the Large Manix is that even though it has a bigger blade, the choil allows you to hold it for precision cuts in a very comfortable manner.

A benefit that I can see for the Para and even full sized Military are that they have the fully serrated option.

If you use any of these knives very hard in the way that they were designed for, lock strength should not be a concern between any of them. Stabbing deep into wood and then twisting the knife hard may increase the chances of the liner lock on the Military and the compression lock on the Para to disengage. Hard prying with any of these knives (and folders in general) will increase the chances of the knife failing in some manner.

I'm pointing out the obvious because the real question isn't a matter of if any of these models will hold up compared to each other, other knives or in general, because they absolutely will (keeping in mind that there will be some defective products in any line from any company in all of business). The real concern for you, IMHO, is what feels the best in your hands. To really appreciate what Spyderco brings to the table, you need to hold them, and better still, use them. Try to find a store near you if you really want the best option for yourself.

All this being said, I likes the big knives. The choice for me would be between the Full Sized Manix and the Military (CF BG42).

 

[kgriggs8]

"All this being said, I likes the big knives. The choice for me would be between the Full Sized Manix and the Military (CF BG42)."

That is actually my choice as well. Once I got a CF Mili, I was all set for my outdoors knife. I am still surprised at how the CF handle makes this knife so much better. The steel upgrad is nice but not 100% required. There is just something about the light weight and strength in such a handy package that screams to be carried and used.

I am also a big fan of tip down, liner locks as this is what I learned with.

 

[Slatts]

After much use and experimentation with the Mini and full size Manix, for me the full size Manix makes the most sense. If you're going to carry a heavy duty folder you might as well carry a big one. The Mini really isn't that much smaller to distinguish itself in any perceptible way IMHO. Just get a Manix.