Mnandi Alternatives?

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Aug 25, 2016
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Hey, I am looking for some Mnandi alternatives that are in the same price range or lower, have similar fit and finish and action, and is 2.5" or under. The one I have tried was the Benchmade Megumi. I really like it but the action is not smooth at all (I have already tried sending it to BM), and the fit and finish is not that great despite using some very nice materials. I really like the old-meets-new look the Megumi and Mnandi have, I just want something that is better quality than the Benchmade and being 2.5" or under.

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If I can't find something comparable I will probably just end up getting a Mnandi. The only reason I have the 2.5" or under requirement is because of Chicago knife laws.
 
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It's a shame the Spyderco Air is 0.06" too long for you. Super smooth action, nice small size and ridiculously lightweight. Maybe get a dremel and round down the tip a bit :P

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Mcusta makes some great smaller and very classy knives. Also they are the sharpest knives I have ever recieved out of the box. Apparently only Rockstead surpasses them in sharpness from the factory in terms of production knives.
 
I think I'm just going to end up carrying a Mnandi in Chicago, it just looks too great. William Henry is great but a bit more expensive and I'm not big on Damascus or ZDP blades.
 
Curious - have you dismissed the Jeff Baker - Gentleman's Folder suggestion I made in the Traditional forums thread where you asked earlier? Too long to wait for a custom?



Ray
 
Sorry for the triple post, but I wanted to ask if anyone has any other suggestions?

You might consider something from Al Mar, the Hawk has a 2.5" blade. They are very nicely made, and offer multiple variations. It is a lock back however.
 
From the pics I saw they look a bit too thick. I also dont know anything about how to ask for a custom or any of that process. How long does it usually take to wait for a custom?
 
Burnley Squid (not the CRKT version)
Gedraitis Snubnose
Red Horse APC
Stedemon zkc a-01
DPX heat/F
Spyderco Vrango

Can't comment on the specific action of each, but certainly all are higher end/custom, 2.5" or less knives from very reputable makers, and all with different looks.
 
From the pics I saw they look a bit too thick. I also dont know anything about how to ask for a custom or any of that process. How long does it usually take to wait for a custom?

If you know what you want - or can offer similar knives as comparables - you simply contact the maker and ask.
Some customs can take 12 weeks - some can take 12 years. All depends on who you are asking. I suggested Jeff Baker because he has a recent model that (except perhaps for being more stout than you care for) seems to comply with your needs - price and size. There are certainly other custom makers such as those listed above. If time is a factor buy a Mnandi. If you are flexible on the time and on the pricing you can get a custom made for less or for MORE. Good luck with your quest.

Ray
 
I agree, a lot of the William Henry knives don't appeal to me, but their EDC line is simple and pretty classy looking. They were cheaper than the Mnandi, and I think retailed for around $300, but it looks like they have discontinued them, so they are only on the secondary market now

I think I'm just going to end up carrying a Mnandi in Chicago, it just looks too great. William Henry is great but a bit more expensive and I'm not big on Damascus or ZDP blades.
 
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