My next framelock?

G

gregvisser

Joined
Jan 17, 2004
Messages
283
Guys,

After getting a Strider SNG just over a year ago, I have become fascinated by tactical framelocks. I have since managed to acquire myself a few more custom 'tactical' framelocks.

Now, what I need some help on: Which custom (or semi custom) framelock should I get next? It should not be more than about $500 and should have a blade length around 3-4". I am looking for solid, well built framelocks from makers with a good reputation.

I will also say that I do not have a Seb in my collection yet. That might be my next stop?

Thanks,

Greg
 
For a little more you can get a Mayo and for maybe a little less even (maybe) you might be able to pick up a DDR.
 
Greg,

There was one framelock design I regretted not buying when I had the chance - Darrel Ralph EDC. Darrel no longer makes these (I think), but there were plenty made that might change hands sometime. The Vanguard models have Talonite blades.

Would be a good partner to your C2O :)
 
A Sebenza would be a good choice. It is a benchmark. A classic. It is *the* titanium framelock. The quality is on a custom level, and the design is very practical.

Tom Mayo's TNT are also classics. But a bit more than you want to spend. I have handled several of them, and a TNT will likely be the next knife I buy (if that tells you anything). Very smooth, very comfortable.

Never handled one of his knives, but Rick Hinderer is supposed to be one of the top tactical framelock makers. His Firetac and Flame look great, and the XM-18 is supposed to be an absolute tank at a pretty low price as well (under $400).

I have a John W. Smith framelock and it is amazing. He is known for his art knives more than his tacticals, but I did some research on him and it seems that he is very respected by other tactical knife makers (as much so as Mayo and Onion and the like), though a little less known to the knife public than those big names.

R.J. Martin is supposed to be great as well, but I have not handled one of his either.

I have handled several Darrel Ralph knives as well, and while they were all very fancy models that sell for far above your $500 max, I am sure the amazing work he does carries over to his more bare-bones models like the plain Gunhammers. Great stuff.
 
If I had that kind of money, I would chose a Solar Arc Tanto from Peter Atwood.
 
If you don't have a Rick Hinderer XM-18, then I would say get one of those or a little something from Darrel Ralph.
 
Artfully Martial said:
For a little more you can get a Mayo and for maybe a little less even (maybe) you might be able to pick up a DDR.
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Kit Carson and Son-in-Law Mike O. make superb knives, Rick Hinderer makes a superb knife, RJ Martin makes a superb knife and his knives are so sharp that they cut and slice before making contact with the material to be cut.

Of course Tom Mayo and and DDR as stated make superb knives.

There are many others but these are my favorites for custom framelocks.......
 
I'd also recommend a Sebenza. I bought one 9 years ago and have not found a better knife for everyday carry. It is slim, super strong, has a very practical blade design for all types of cutting chores and one of the best warranties in the business. The knife is just easy to carry: 1)the pocket clip is small, unobtrusive and strong. 2) The handles have no roughness that will rip up clothing, yet the knife is secure to hold even with wet hands.
 
Guys, some awesome auggestions! I really didn't know there was such a good selection of framelocks out there.

I must say that of all the suggestions so far, I fancy:

Hinderer's XM18
A Mayo TNT
The Darrel Ralph EDC (thanks Red ;) )

I have started correspondence with the makers and will hopefully get one or all of the above eventually.

I must say that I like Kevin Wilkins' work as well - it is just a bit too dear for me at this stage.....

Cheers,

Greg
 
proguide said:
Buy a Sebenza, there is not a better knife on the market in my opinion.
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I was thinking that, but then I have a Lochsa on it's way soon. In my mind it is fairly similar to a Seb, but a custom - I can get the finishes I want.

Thanks,

Greg
 
I think a Sebenza is worth owning no matter how many custom framelocks you own just because it is so archtypal and such a classic. But if other knives appeal to you more, get them first. I'd love to have a Lochsa.
 
I have this for scraping dog poo off my shoes

Curly-Maple.jpg


:)
 
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