My First Good EDC Folder?

My suggestion is look at the Columia River Knife (CRKT) M-16 Series. A very good design from Kit Carson. Liner lock w/ very good flipper guard, and 'auto-lawks' which keeps the liner lock from closing accidentally. Auto-lock and excellent guard might make this the safest folder made.

I like the SF model w/ double flipper guard, which I think could probably even be used as a 'wave. (make sure model you get allows for tip-up carry if you like this idea. My M16 is an older model, but it has been durable and a good EDC for me. Cost for most of them is in the neighborhood of $50. They have quite a few versions, so you can get exactly the one that appeals to you. Not made in U.S., but in Taiwan, a solid U.S. friend who needs all the help they can get to be saved from absorption by the Chicoms.
 
Spyderco Native is by far the best bet for the money. You will be happy with that knife no matter what lockup u like. I promise
 
I agree with the other posters who pointed out the 530. It meets all of your stated criteria perfectly and is a great knife. The only issue I have with it is that cosmetically, it resembles a dagger and I prefer a less "tactical" appearance for an EDC. Everyone has their own opinions on appearance, though.

I also agree that you should reconsider the spyderco mid-lock models, which are great knives with great locks. If I were going to eliminate a lock type, I would eliminate liner locks long before lock backs. Note that the Native has what is arguably the best knife steel there is at any price (S30V, commonly found in $500+ knives), made by one of the best knife companies and the price is currently an almost unbelievable $40. This may be the best knife deal you will ever have the chance to take advantage of.

The mini griptilian is a great knife, as is the full sized version, but the full size is definitely too bulky to carry in slacks, IMO, unless you don't mind a very noticeable lump (but at least it is light). It is not a slim knife by any means. There is a big difference in bulk between the two sizes. This knife is also not offered in a true spear point blade profile, which is actually not all that common. The drop point version is somewhat close to a spear point profile, though. Very few of the other knives mentioned in this thread are true spear points. The mini grip is my all around favorite EDC and works great in slacks as well as casual clothes, holds an edge, easy to operate, etc. But carried on a clip, it will wear out your pocket unless you soften the texture with sandpaper. I EDC mine without a clip.

But based on your stated criteria, it's the 530 hands down, and if you reconsider your lock restriction, it's the Native.
 
vehmgericht223 said:
blan what is your understanding of an edc folder? Does your concept of an edc folder include its potential use in a defensive capacity? I'm just curious.. Spend that little extra is my humble advice, why cheap out if you are serious about knives in the first.
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Whilst doubtful that I would have to use my pocket knife in self-defense, if the situation arised where I had to, yes, it could see potential use in a defensive capability.
I'm not trying to cheap out, I am willing to buy something more expensive than what I set my budget at but I'd like to start in steps.
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After Cotherion's post I was going with the D'Allara but after watching shaggy's review on it, it seems a bit wide (I could get over this, seems all spyderco's are wide) and a little harder to close. Looks like you need two fingers to operate the ball lock instead of just one.

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Wow, that Kershaw RAM is nice! I would definitely go with that one right now, no more questions asked, if it was out.
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After all the suggestions, I am reconsidering the Native. The fact that I can just drop by walmart and get it is a very big plus as well.
The reason I don't like lockbacks is that during one handed closing the blade can (and probably will) fall on the fingers still wrapped around the handle and cut you. I've never had any problem with liner locks, even on my el-cheapo knives.

I've narrowed it down to the following based on your recommendations:
Spyderco D’Allara Drop Point Plain edge
Spyderco Native
Kershaw Leek
Kershaw Mini-Cyclone
Benchmade 530
Benchmade 551



Frankly, I think I'm going with the Native. If I end up having to wear slacks everyday for a new job... well I guess I'll get myself a "new job" gift. :D


Thank you all so much for your excellent and throughout recommendations, this is a great place!
 
It is true that your fingers will be in the blade path when unlocking a lock back. However, that is also true of a liner lock. With a lock back, the blade typically will not "fall" but needs to be pushed all the way closed. A liner lock is more likely to close suddenly. I find the lock backs to be quite safe in all circumstances, while I never really trust a liner lock when closng one-handed. I am sure you will love the Native it you go that way. And it can easily be concealed in slacks with the clip removed.
 
blan said:
Alright, so I tried to do this by searching instead of making a post, but there are so many choices that after several days of not being able to make up my mind I decided to post.

For over a year I have EDC'd a folder in my pocket. Unfortunately it has always been a crappy <$5 one. While they haven't been bad to me, they simply cannot hold an edge. I started off looking for a good sharpener and ended up deciding than I need to get a good knife on top of that. I have really been a quantity over quality kind of guy in the past but I'm trying to change that.

I already decided to get a Spyderco Sharpmaker. But I need your help deciding on a knife.

Wants:
- Liner or Axis type lock. Don't like the push backs which I know eliminates most of the Spydercos.
- I don't think I should start with a ~$100 knife as my first so my budget is $40-$60. If you feel different please let me know. In that high priced category I would probably get a BM710SD2 or BM Nitrous Striker D2.
- I might end up carrying the knife with slacks in the future so bigger knives such as Kershaw Cyclone, Kershaw JYD II might be too big.
- Plain edge spear-point.
- Good edge retention. Granted... coming from $5 Chinese blades I would probably love the edge retention on anything remotely good quality, but that's why I'm asking the experts.
- I would prefer something Made in the USA but I understand that at the lower price ranges it might be beneficial to drop this requirement.
- Pocket Clip

Help!
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Linerlock - Kershaw JYDII
Axis-lock - Mini-Griptilian
Framelock - Kershaw Storm I or II,or Shallot
All within your price range
 
I bought a Ritter grip first and I prefer my Mini-Grip. I have quite a few knives to choose from and really like Spydercos as far as bang for the buck, but my Mini-Grip ends up getting carried way more than anything else.

I think its a really good combination of features: Axis lock, good blade size to knife size ratio, good blade shape and cutting ability/strength compromise, Axis lock, takes a good edge and sharpens easily, Axis lock- for me it's just the perfect size EDC- oh, yeah- and it has the Axis lock!
 
I got the Native guys. It's small and lightweight, so I should be able to clip it on to slacks with no problem. I can close it one handed although not as efficiently or quickly as I can liner locks. Not regretting the purchase, but I know I will buy other quality knives in the future. Hopefully not too many.

Thank you all your recommendations!
 
blan said:
I got the Native guys. It's small and lightweight, so I should be able to clip it on to slacks with no problem. I can close it one handed although not as efficiently or quickly as I can liner locks. Not regretting the purchase, but I know I will buy other quality knives in the future. Hopefully not too many.

Thank you all your recommendations!
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You will always be looking, but you will never find a knife that is really any better than that one.
 
Im glad you chose the Native. You wont be sorry my freind. Good choice! I love mine, I never leave home without it or my Victorinox Rucksack.
 
blan said:
I got the Native guys. It's small and lightweight, so I should be able to clip it on to slacks with no problem. I can close it one handed although not as efficiently or quickly as I can liner locks. Not regretting the purchase, but I know I will buy other quality knives in the future. Hopefully not too many.

Thank you all your recommendations!
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Excellent choice. You can never go wrong with a Spydie!
 
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