Modern traditional under $200

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Dec 7, 2009
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Recently, I’ve been interested in the look of traditional knives. I love bolsters. But I’d like something with modern materials. So I’m looking for a modern traditional under $200.

So far the LionSteel Bestman has my attention. As does the Civivi Banneret (not really a traditional but similar). I like locks but I can do a slip joint too. I’m open to any suggestions.
 
Lionsteel Roundhead. I like the spear point, traditional lines but modern materials. I have two of these, the one with all titanium frame, the other with ram horn scales, still has the titanium bolster.

IMG_0601.jpegIMG_0598.jpeg
 
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If the bolster look is what you are trying to find specifically

Lake Champlain Barlow
Ohio River Jack
QSP has many offerings with bolsters

There's tons more.
Yes , I want bolsters. Today will be spent searching online (when I’m not working). I’ll check out your suggestions.
 
Plus 1 for Lion Steel. Roundhead or any of their barlow-esque patterns.
(That's different than burlesque.)
 
If you do decide to go with Lion Steel they make great knives. Another to consider would be Viper, they similarly constructed.
Even though these two are slip joints, they're very secure in the open position.

I also like the way the Italian makers crown the blades and backsprings on some of their offerings.
On the Viper knife in the picture, the transition line from spring to blade is nearly invisible when the knife is open.

viper2.jpg
 
Also, if you want a lock, don't forget about Buck. I'm a big fan of the 501, which has had a number of more modern offerings. (canvas micarta/s35vn, burlap micarta/CPM154, burlap/s35vn, ebony/magnacut.

If you prefer larger, there are many more options with the 112 and 110; but I can't list examples because I don't pay much attention.
 
I’ll check out Buck and Vosteed today. LionSteel slip joints look outstanding. And Boker has some nice ones too. I feel myself falling down a new rabbit hole 😃
 
If you do decide to go with Lion Steel they make great knives. Another to consider would be Viper, they similarly constructed.
Even though these two are slip joints, they're very secure in the open position.

I also like the way the Italian makers crown the blades and backsprings on some of their offerings.
On the Viper knife in the picture, the transition line from spring to blade is nearly invisible when the knife is open.

View attachment 2520165
Very nice 👍
 
I’ll check out Buck and Vosteed today. LionSteel slip joints look outstanding. And Boker has some nice ones too. I feel myself falling down a new rabbit hole 😃
The vosteed isn't a slippie it's a button lock well at least the corgi.

Lion Steel has a lot of what you are looking for same with Viper.

If you want no bolsters that opens up even more doors. Personally I've been digging Serge Panchenko's slippies lately, they're usually full Ti and M390.
 
The vosteed isn't a slippie it's a button lock well at least the corgi.

Lion Steel has a lot of what you are looking for same with Viper.

If you want no bolsters that opens up even more doors. Personally I've been digging Serge Panchenko's slippies lately, they're usually full Ti and M390.
Actually , I’d prefer a lock. But some of these slip joints look so nice that I’m willing to forgo the lock if need be.
 
Actually , I’d prefer a lock. But some of these slip joints look so nice that I’m willing to forgo the lock if need be.
Plenty of options in that regard, back locks and even some liner locks have a traditional spirit. Buck and Finch are two that come to mind when I see them with modern materials in a traditional pattern.

Button lock isn't really a traditional though.
 
The Vosteed was suggested because of similarities with the Civivi mentioned at the beginning, and my experience, not because I thought it was as slipjoint, just to clarify.


I have been very happy with it and really like the blade type, size and flat grind. Slicy
 
The Vosteed was suggested because of similarities with the Civivi mentioned at the beginning, and my experience, not because I thought it was as slipjoint, just to clarify.


I have been very happy with it and really like the blade type, size and flat grind. Slicy
I’d be happy with just traditional-type looks such as that Civivi. I just find it good looking. Never tried Nitro-V though. My only concern is that maybe Civivi quality/fit and finish isn’t up to snuff with the likes of LionSteel or some other brands. But I’ve never handled a Civivi so maybe it’s just fine.
 
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