Mini Manix VS Para Military

Joined
Nov 18, 2005
Messages
258
Hi!
I have a new spyderco on my "next purchases" list and I really like this both but I can't decide between them.

Mini Manix
Pros: I really like the blade shape and the ergonomic seems to be really good too.
Cons: Maybe too heavy, I haven't tried any Spyderco back lock but I usually don't like it.

Para Military:
Pros: I think I'll like the compression lock, thinner, more pocket friendly.
Cons: Maybe not the best blade shape for some tasks, more scary for the sheeple.

What do you think?
 
I love my para, aside from its defects (make sure you can check yours out), and haven't handled the mini manix yet, although a couple points

The manix blade shape and para blade shape are extremely similar, so I imagine they'd offer equal utility (I love the leaf shaped blade myself).

I don't think the para would be any more or less scary than a mini manix. Probably comparable.

I think it comes down to thin, long and light (+ compression lock), or overbuilt and heavier (lockback). I really like the compression lock though.
 
I havent handled the Mini-Manix but I own the regular sized Manix and have handled the Para a couple of times and personally prefer the Manix. I dont like the handle to blade ratio of the para nor do I trust the compression lock as much as the lockback. Theirs a wertain solid feel you get when you hold the manix that you dont get with many other knives and I love it. Manix all the way :thumbup: .
 
I have'nt any of them, but even if a lot of forumites like the manix or mini manix, after some time they reject it as EDC because they find it to "heavy" and to big for their pocket...:rolleyes:
 
Freddy is right, you often see that people love the Manix but return to a Para for its lightness.
 
I Have handled both knives, I liked the Para cus it was much lighter then the Mini Manix, But the Mini Manix felt much nice hold. I got over the fact that one was heavier and went with what felt best. I'd say go for the Mini Manix.
 
Artfully Martial said:
I love my para, aside from its defects (make sure you can check yours out).

Do you mean they usually come with production defects? I'll probably order it form NGK, I hope they can check it out before sending...

Due all the answers I think I'll go with the para, I just got a 710 and a Spec Bump (waiting to arrive yet :S), I have enough of big knives for a while, I'll get the Manix later :D
 
I considered both of these knives myself and decided on the Para. In the end, it was the blade to handle ratio, compression lock, and the light weight that sold me. :thumbup:
 
I've handled both through passarounds.

I prefer the mini manix by far. More comfortable, feels more solid, WAY smoother opening, and I like the back lock. Yes it's a little heavier but not a problem in jeans.
 
Yes, defects are pretty common on Paras....I have three different unrelated defects on my para..very dissapointing.

I can't imagine the mini manix being smoother than the para, but I can definitely tell you that the mini manix can't be open and closed as fast...you can axis flick compression locks. My para is almost as smooth as an axis lock.
 
I vote for the Mini-Manix mostly because I really really HATE the Compression-lock.

Allen.
 
I have the full size manix and i cannot say enough good things about it. It has quickly become my favorite folder. The quality, comfort, and strength of the knife are great. You know it wont let you down. Yes it does have a nice heft to it and yes it does take up alot of pocket space but who cares? Its definitely worth it :thumbup:
 
You need to be able to handle both if ergonomics is a big concern. Although both the mini Manix and the Para have excellent ergonomics. Both are virtually the same length closed, almost the same blade length. The mini-Manix has a heavier blade with a stronger point. The Para has a finer point that I find better for general utility. The mini-Manix has a significantly wider footprint in your pocket, so if you also carry keys or change in the same pocket that could be an issue. And the mini-Manix is heavier (5.5 oz vs 3.75 oz for the Para).

I have played with a full-size Manix, but it was too big for me. I weighed the pros and cons between the mini-Manix and the Para, and got the Para. I do not regret that decision. Mine came with absolutely no issues, unlike the experience of some others.

I should add that both knives are very high quality, I would not have any problem recommending either. It is a matter of which one suits your particular needs better. For example, if you anticipate a lot of hard work with the tip, go with the mini Manix. And if one looks better to you, that should also be considered.
 
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