Mission ??

[cpirtle]

Hi All,

I've been kicking around a Mission MPF for a while and posted a thread in the reviews section several weeks ago and did not get much info, so I thought I'd try here.

I'm debating between the MPF in Ti or A2 but all I can find the A2 model in is the Tanto version which I would rather not get.

I've read all of the archived discussions about these and have seen mixed results. But there has been very little discussion of them in recent months (or even this year really).

I know the properties of Ti for a blade and am not afraid of having to sharpen it often. What I'm lacking is current opinions from people who own them or have owned them. If you had one and sold it I'd love to hear why.

I also have heard that early models of the MPF in Ti had some deliberate blade play added to prevent galling but then heard that this was changed and lock-up is tight now, is this the case?

Any thoughts or impressions you have in general would be great.

 

[Bronco]

cpirtle,
I purchased my MPF a little over a year ago, and at that time Mission was using nylotron (or something similar) for their blade bushings, thus I doubt that any galling issues persist to this day, if they ever actually existed at all. As far as any built-in blade play is concerned, all I can tell you from my recent conversations with Mission is that every MPF constructed today is designed to be every bit as solid as any other high dollar production folder.

As you're probably aware, the beefy ti handles allow for an extremely strong and durable framelock arrangement. Where the ergonomics of the MPF's handle are concerned, think more along the lines of Strider than Randall. Although the general shape mates with the hand well, the edges are left somewhat crisp so as to ensure a positive grip under all conditions. The thumbstud especially is easily manipulated when gloves are worn.

I'm not really sure what to recommend to you for a blade material. Mine, of course, came equipped with the Beta ti blade, and this has worked out well for me. Though it hasn't seen quite the same level of usage as some of my other folders, in what use it has seen, the edge holding is better than what I was led to expect (easily on a level with 440A and the 420 class steels). And, contrary to what some have reported, I've had no problems putting highly polished, hair popping edges on mine (using an EdgePro Apex). So, if the thought of having a unique, solid titanium, magnetically inert folder appeals to you, then by all means go with the Beta ti blade.

On the other hand, the incredibly strong handle and lock construction of the MPF likely makes it one of the few folders in production today that could actually allow one to benefit from the exceptional strength and toughness of A2 steel. So, if corrosion resistance (or magnetic signature) isn't an extreme concern, then the A2 version will no doubt make for an outstanding user. Of course, you can also expect a not insignificant weight increase with the A2 model as well. Tough call either way, but regardless of which path you choose, you're going to end up with one very durable folder.