My Current Spyderco Dilemma

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Jan 13, 2013
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Well I hope to pull the trigger this week on a good spyderco but I'm stuck between three lightweights:

Delica 4
Endura 4
Manix 2


I know plenty of people have experience with these so I'd like some input before I choose.
 
Really depends on what you like best. If you like having a longer blade, go with the Endura. If you tend to go with something a bit smaller, go with the delica. The manix 2 would be my pick just due to its great feel and performance.
 
Really depends on what you like best. If you like having a longer blade, go with the Endura. If you tend to go with something a bit smaller, go with the delica. The manix 2 would be my pick just due to its great feel and performance.

He nailed it on the head. depends on what you like. I actually have both but I prefer to carry the Endura because of the blade length.
 
My current Spyderco dilemma is that the only one I have is the Tenacious, and it's a nice little utility knife with a lock that could be stronger.

I say go with the Manix 2. I intend to buy one, I haven't gotten around to it yet, but I will.
 
I've been leaning towards the Manix 2 but as I've never fondled one, I've no clue to how it feels in hand and performs. I found a good deal on one brand new to the point it'll run me only $5 more than the others. My big question on it: Is it really a step above the Enduras/Delicas?
 
I would go with the Manix it's a great knife for the money and USA made if that's something you look for. The steel holds up well and is easy to sharpen IMO. I also prefer the lock on the Manix over the backlock on the endura/delica. I had the delica but gave it away when I bought a Manix lightweight.
 
There are a lot of people that don't have the luxury of handling a knife before purchasing. What drives people to buy things overall are the reviews, remarks, and experiences of others. Buy what you like, read threads, reviews, experiences, on e knives. Look at thepecs, weight, dimensions on each knife. Look for photos comparing the various knives to one another and to other knives. In short, buy the one you like best. You'll be the one using it and carrying it after all.
 
Have you ever operated a Benchmade with an Axis Lock?

That's similar in feel to the caged ball on the Manix 2.

You're probably going to end up with all three so I guess it doesn't really matter where you start.
 
Simple answer is all three!! I would start with the Delica then Endura then Manix2 LW
 
Out of those, I'd pick a manix hands down. S30v over vg10, g10 instead of frn... I own all three and like each one, but the manix is a winner in all ways to me.
 
Out of those, I'd pick a manix hands down. S30v over vg10, g10 instead of frn... I own all three and like each one, but the manix is a winner in all ways to me.

I'm actually looking at the Manix 2 Lightweight. BD-1 steel which I'm skeptical of, FRCP handle, no liners, pin construction.

I'm making the decision tonight. It'll be my first Spyderco.
 
I had a delica for years and loved it. I find vg-10 hard to sharpen, but its a strong useful knife.
 
The BD-1 has been excellent for my use. There has been no play developed over time with the pins, and if there is Spyderco will fix it. Don't worry about no liners. The Manix 2 is my favorite in the lineup you mention.

P1070439_zpsd29e67f3.jpg
 
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I'm actually looking at the Manix 2 Lightweight. BD-1 steel which I'm skeptical of, FRCP handle, no liners, pin construction.

I'm making the decision tonight. It'll be my first Spyderco.

I can't speak to the Delica. I don't have one, nor have I handled one so take my comments with that in mind. But I do have a sprint run Endura Damascus. I also have 3 Manix 2s. IMHO, the Manix line is far more suitable to my needs than the Endura line. That isn't a knock on the Endura, instead it is a compliment to the Manix.

One of my Manix 2s is the translucent blue lightweight BD1. I have no issue with it. In fact, I love it. When I first unboxed the knife, I was disappointed. The handle seemed cheap - until I used the knife awhile and realized the benefit of the weight reduction. No issues with the steel. The BD1 steel is just fine. I've already used that Manix quite a bit and in some heavy situations. Held the edge fine and took to a quick honing like a champ. Very pleased. In fact, that is my Manix of choice right now. The Manix is a superb slicer and the handle design (from an ergonomic POV) is simply outstanding. The Manix line feels very solid and secure in my hand.

Being a sprint run, my Endura is destined to be a safe queen, so it has received minimal use. But it is not nearly as comfortable in my hand as are the Manix knives. Not bad, but the Manix is exceptional. Let me put it this way...I bought the Endura, a PM2, a Military, and a Manix XL all within a week of each other. I've since bought more Manix knives and have one more to buy when it is released later this year. I will buy another PM2, if I can find a black/black but have no intentions of buying another Endura or Military. That says tons about my opinion of the Manix. I have very few doubles of anything but I have multiples with the Manix.

All that said, it is just my opinion. Others (perhaps you) might feel differently, but all I can do is give you my thoughts on the knives. YMMV.

Best of luck making your decision. :)

An older pic. Note the Manix 2 XL, the PM2, and the Translucent Blue Manix 2 from bottom up.

DSC_0069.jpg
 
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i had all three but my manix 2 was the standard not the lightweight frn version. comparing those it is a giant improvement over the endura/delica.
YMMV
 
for my current state of mind I would probably favor the Delica, then the light weight manix, then the endura. all good, just different.

My current Spyderco dilemma is that the only one I have is the Tenacious, and it's a nice little utility knife with a lock that could be stronger.

has the lock failed on you?

Being a sprint run, my Endura is destined to be a safe queen

why is that?
 
Did some extra digging around and finally came to a solid conclusion. Placed my order. Should be here in a few days. Won't say what I went with until I have pics to post which I'll put in this thread asap. Thanks a lot for all of the input, everyone. It was all really helpful. Feel free to continue the discussion because I'll be biting at another off that list within a week or two most likely.
 
...why is that?

Because I have enough knives to use in any situation, at any time. I bought this one simply because of its appearance, not its functionality. It may become an investment. It may become a knife that I just enjoy for its looks. But I didn't buy it for a user as I don't want to mar its good looks and being a sprint run, it won't be that easy (or inexpensive) for me to replace. That simple, really. YMMV. :)

enduradamascus.jpg


(picture borrowed from the internet)
 
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