Need Help Deciding on my next knife

[Blackf77t]

I am hoping to get some advice on what knives to buy next. I am really agonizing and enjoying trying to convince myself on which way I should go. I realize my opinions may not be the same as everyone else, but please understand they are just my preferences and you have a right to yours. Thank you in advance for any help!

I use knives primarily for cutting paper, cardboard, and compulsively fidget. I am harder on things than use case would suggest and things seem to fall apart in my hands, so durability is important to me than most. I just got into knives and here are my impressions of what I have so far.

Benchmade Griptilian - When I got it, you couldn't cut paper with it if you dropped a brick on it. I got it from BladeHQ, so I am not concerned it was counterfeit. I sent it in for Lifesharp service, but I haven't got it back yet. It was disappointing and it probably hurt my impression. The grip was fine, possibly even tame. It feels durable.

Boker Trainer Butterfly - Even though I am awful, I really enjoy flipping this knife.

CRKT non d2 squid - I love this knife. It is cheap, durable, legal pretty much everywhere, feels good to me, and has excellent cutting power for such a cheap knife.

Kershaw Clash - I took it apart twice and stripped the screws. If it was more durable, I would like this more. The GFN is better in my opinion than FRN.

Kershaw Knockout - The frame lock is a little stiff so its hard to open and close one handed. The aluminum has a nice quality feel. I am not sure if it will break in yet, but it doesn't look like it. This knife is a work of art. If I could open and close it like the Smith and Wesson with better steel, it would be the perfect knife.

Smith and Wesson Extreme Ops - I paid about $10 a few years ago. The blade steel is garbage and it is definitely a mall ninja knife, but the most comfortable knife I have to flip. I probably open and close this knife at least a 100 times a day every day. I have a real love hate relationship with this knife. I am looking forward to replacing it.

Sypderco Dragonfly 2 Salt - I prefer the squid, but the knife cuts well, legal most places, very good in the pocket, and pretty good ergonomics. I can forgive the banana yellow color and the cheap feel of FRN. I can see myself carrying this on wet rainy days.

Spyderco Para 3 lightweight - I know most people like it, but I really hated this knife. I have only returned two or three things in my entire life and this is one of them. I will never buy another Spyderco with FRN or a compression lock, so I will never buy a Shaman or PM2 which look good otherwise. The space to open and close on the compression lock is tiny and feels like it will break in my hand. The FRN feels cheaper than the GFN on the Kershaw Clash.


I have thought of several options and I have roughly $100 to spend now, but I am open to other ideas.

Option A
The Spyderco Manix 2 appears to be very durable, grippy, good one handed action, and a great slicer. I even considered the Manix 2 XL, but that seems too big. Based on my experience with the Spyderco para 3 lightweight, I am concerned I won't feel like it was worth the money. However, The ball lock is like the Axis lock, G10, and all around more durable with liners. I am guessing I will like this better.

Option B
I could buy several cheaper knives I have been considering. The Spyderco Efficient would be a good slicer and I like the blade shape, like a cheap Spyderco Native 5. Since I really like the CRKT Squid I am pretty sure I would like the Pilar Large D2. The Ontario Rat 2 D2 could probably replace the Smith and Wesson for fidgeting.

Option C
I could save up for a Zero Tolerance 0562cf, which reminds me a little of the Kershaw Knockout with the better action. The price has me a little concerned and at the price I would like my hand out of the blade path. I was really interested in the Zero Tolerance 0450cf, but my hand is 4 inches across and I was concerned about a hot spot at the end of the knife.

 

[LightningG]

.

 

[Mingecutter]

Manix 2

 

[marcus52AR]

I'd say Manix 2 as well. Also, don't give up on compression locks just yet. The Shaman is a really sturdy feeling knife.

 

[guy g]

Nice analysis of the knives you have experience with.. I'm not familiar with the actual knives you are looking at, but spyderco is obviously a good choice.
What is it about the frn you don't like? I have the Native 5. And no offense, but why send back the Benchmade for sharpening? Maybe look for a sharpener you like? Just being nosey.. thanks

 

[Earl1]

The manix 2 us a great knife. I just recently sold one. After I got it simply was bigger than what I need right now. Couldn't go wrong wi it though if ya need the larger blade

 

[JJ_Colt45]

First either the Manix II or ZT 562 would serve you well. The Manix II is one of my favorite Spydercos, I put after market micarta on my Manix IIs as it's what I like. The ZT 562 is a great knife, I prefer the G10 version or after market micarta scales on it over the CF or Ti personally.

The Manix II is a better slicer out of the box no question. The ZT is a very stout knife and one of my favorite ZTs but I thinned the edge to make it a bit better slicer. Neither will "fall apart in your hand" they are solid built knives and will serve you well unless you abuse them.

For cutting paper and cardboard out of the box ... the Manix will have a slight edge as a slicer ... the ZT is stouter with a bit thicker blade stock. The ZT feels bigger in hand and weighs more if that matters to you. I personally would buy one or two good knives that fit your needs over the "buy several" cheaper knives that never quite satisfy you.

Myself I tend to almost always carry at least two knives. One a smaller thinner blade for small tasks like paper/envelopes etc ... And a bit larger knife with a blade steel that has better edge retention for abrasive materials like cardboard and bigger chores. You don't have to spend a small fortune to do so either ... although I do enjoy my CRKs and Hinderers ... most days I carry something like a SAK ALox Farmer other slipjoint/Spyderco Dlelica/Native 5 G10 along with anything from a Manix II in M4/ZT550/ up to and including the Hinderers or CRKs.

From the knives you listed ... Manix II a better slicer and lighter weight ... ZT 562 a better fidget factor and a bit stouter bigger and heavier but feels really good in hand (for me) ... if you are truly worried about breaking it (the tip of the ZT 562 is stronger than the Manix II). Both are good companies IMHO.

not good pics but just snapped a couple quick comparison pics ...

 

[Blackf77t]

What is it about the frn you don't like?

FRN will bend in my hands, which to me feels cheap and unreliable. I really don't understand why people will trade liners for 2 oz of weight.

I have the Native 5. And no offense, but why send back the Benchmade for sharpening?

The Native 5 looks awesome, but paying $185 to get liner version or paying $120 to get a Manix 2 seems like a bad trade.

I own a Spyderco Sharpmaker, nano oil, and torx screws. I took the Kershaw Clash apart twice and the cheap screws broke. I really didn't want to break the Griptilian and I heard good things about Lifesharp.

 

[SteelPanther]

manix 2 hands down....I wasn't a fan of the compression lock at first...didn't like it on the para 3 but it doesn't bother me on the shaman and has made me prefer the comp lock now...the ball bearing lock on the manix 2 is great but may take a lil breaking in...manix 2 will feel worth the money its an excellent knife

 

[JPD1998]

I did the survey before reading your criteria and based on your budget I'd also recommend the Manix 2.
IMO the Manix 2 in G10 is a bargain at $122. I have the XL in g10 , but it was $25 less expensive when i bought it, than it is now.
And I thought that was a tremendous bargain.

 

[Blackf77t]

First either the Manix II or ZT 562 would serve you well. The Manix II is one of my favorite Spydercos, I put after market micarta on my Manix IIs as it's what I like. The ZT 562 is a great knife, I prefer the G10 version or after market micarta scales on it over the CF or Ti personally.

The Manix II is a better slicer out of the box no question. The ZT is a very stout knife and one of my favorite ZTs but I thinned the edge to make it a bit better slicer. Neither will "fall apart in your hand" they are solid built knives and will serve you well unless you abuse them.

For cutting paper and cardboard out of the box ... the Manix will have a slight edge as a slicer ... the ZT is stouter with a bit thicker blade stock. The ZT feels bigger in hand and weighs more if that matters to you. I personally would buy one or two good knives that fit your needs over the "buy several" cheaper knives that never quite satisfy you.

Myself I tend to almost always carry at least two knives. One a smaller thinner blade for small tasks like paper/envelopes etc ... And a bit larger knife with a blade steel that has better edge retention for abrasive materials like cardboard and bigger chores. You don't have to spend a small fortune to do so either ... although I do enjoy my CRKs and Hinderers ... most days I carry something like a SAK ALox Farmer other slipjoint/Spyderco Dlelica/Native 5 G10 along with anything from a Manix II in M4/ZT550/ up to and including the Hinderers or CRKs.

From the knives you listed ... Manix II a better slicer and lighter weight ... ZT 562 a better fidget factor and a bit stouter bigger and heavier but feels really good in hand (for me) ... if you are truly worried about breaking it (the tip of the ZT 562 is stronger than the Manix II). Both are good companies IMHO.

This was a great analysis. This seems to be the consensus to get the Manix 2 and/or the Zero Tolerance 0562cf rather than a bunch of cheaper knives. Are there any knives without a compression lock I should consider for a big knife? I am happy with the CRKT squid and the Spyderco Dragonfly 2 salt as my small blades. If the Spyderco Dragonfly 2 salt broke, I would replace it with a Pilar or squid in d2.

I really appreciate your time and the comparison pictures. Thank you.

 

[bflying]

I am hoping to get some advice on what knives to buy next. I am really agonizing and enjoying trying to convince myself on which way I should go. I realize my opinions may not be the same as everyone else, but please understand they are just my preferences and you have a right to yours. Thank you in advance for any help!

I use knives primarily for cutting paper, cardboard, and compulsively fidget. I am harder on things than use case would suggest and things seem to fall apart in my hands, so durability is important to me than most. I just got into knives and here are my impressions of what I have so far.

Benchmade Griptilian - When I got it, you couldn't cut paper with it if you dropped a brick on it. I got it from BladeHQ, so I am not concerned it was counterfeit. I sent it in for Lifesharp service, but I haven't got it back yet. It was disappointing and it probably hurt my impression. The grip was fine, possibly even tame. It feels durable.

Boker Trainer Butterfly - Even though I am awful, I really enjoy flipping this knife.

CRKT non d2 squid - I love this knife. It is cheap, durable, legal pretty much everywhere, feels good to me, and has excellent cutting power for such a cheap knife.

Kershaw Clash - I took it apart twice and stripped the screws. If it was more durable, I would like this more. The GFN is better in my opinion than FRN.

Kershaw Knockout - The frame lock is a little stiff so its hard to open and close one handed. The aluminum has a nice quality feel. I am not sure if it will break in yet, but it doesn't look like it. This knife is a work of art. If I could open and close it like the Smith and Wesson with better steel, it would be the perfect knife.

Smith and Wesson Extreme Ops - I paid about $10 a few years ago. The blade steel is garbage and it is definitely a mall ninja knife, but the most comfortable knife I have to flip. I probably open and close this knife at least a 100 times a day every day. I have a real love hate relationship with this knife. I am looking forward to replacing it.

Sypderco Dragonfly 2 Salt - I prefer the squid, but the knife cuts well, legal most places, very good in the pocket, and pretty good ergonomics. I can forgive the banana yellow color and the cheap feel of FRN. I can see myself carrying this on wet rainy days.

Spyderco Para 3 lightweight - I know most people like it, but I really hated this knife. I have only returned two or three things in my entire life and this is one of them. I will never buy another Spyderco with FRN or a compression lock, so I will never buy a Shaman or PM2 which look good otherwise. The space to open and close on the compression lock is tiny and feels like it will break in my hand. The FRN feels cheaper than the GFN on the Kershaw Clash.


I have thought of several options and I have roughly $100 to spend now, but I am open to other ideas.

Option A
The Spyderco Manix 2 appears to be very durable, grippy, good one handed action, and a great slicer. I even considered the Manix 2 XL, but that seems too big. Based on my experience with the Spyderco para 3 lightweight, I am concerned I won't feel like it was worth the money. However, The ball lock is like the Axis lock, G10, and all around more durable with liners. I am guessing I will like this better.

Option B
I could buy several cheaper knives I have been considering. The Spyderco Efficient would be a good slicer and I like the blade shape, like a cheap Spyderco Native 5. Since I really like the CRKT Squid I am pretty sure I would like the Pilar Large D2. The Ontario Rat 2 D2 could probably replace the Smith and Wesson for fidgeting.

Option C
I could save up for a Zero Tolerance 0562cf, which reminds me a little of the Kershaw Knockout with the better action. The price has me a little concerned and at the price I would like my hand out of the blade path. I was really interested in the Zero Tolerance 0450cf, but my hand is 4 inches across and I was concerned about a hot spot at the end of the knife.

I think my first question before suggestion would be.... Have you ever handled the Manix? Because many people tend to compare it to Axis locks, yourself included. But in my limited experience (with my own Manix 2 LW), it may look like an Axis, but does not function like one. I'm referring to the fact that mine requires approximately 7-10 times the pull force to unlock. While my Axis locks are very easy to manipulate with one hand, my Manix is usually a two hand process. And pulling from one side only as I often do with the Axis, is not possible by me with the M2LW. I'm not saying the Manix is a bad knife, only that it's best if handled first. So if purchased, it's not just because it "looks" like an Axis locked knife. But while I don't ever carry my Manix LW, there are many other Spyderco's that I do absolutely love, and have in my carry options.

Out of the choices above, I'd say the ZT. My ZT's usually fill the roll of both heavy duty knife, and fidget toys.

 

[JPD1998]

I'm only showing you this because it's another bargain at about $100 ( IMO).

It's a large knife , a little bigger than the ZT, but slightly smaller than the the Manix XL.
It's a Dendra Deer Hunter, made by Lionsteel of Italy.

I have the Defender model which is full titanium on the lock side , this one is a liner lock.

They're very well made knives and I believe they were a small run and are no longer made.
The sites that still have them are closing them out. Read the specs and make sure it's not too larger or heavy for your needs.

View attachment 1343854

 

[bigsurbob]

I love your 3 options.

I own and quite often carry the SpyderCo Sage 3 (which, arguably, is similar to the Manix 2 https://www.bladeforums.com/threads/manix-2-vs-sage-3.833233/ feel free to set me straight BF!) and I love that Sage 3. Drops shut. The bolt lock is great but not very fidgety. Very comfortable in hand. The textured G10 is hard on pockets. These traits may apply to that Manix2. Maybe check out that Sage 3 if you're interested.

I'd lusted after the 452CF for a year and finally got it. It's in my pocket now and it is sweet. You're right, you do sorta need to watch your fingers while closing if you want to palm grip it until the blade is all the way closed. It's so thin overall for such a big ass knife. Kinda thick-bladed compared to Spydercos. I can see why some folks thin it up behind the edge. It pretty well drops shut with a little help so there are safer closing techniques. Fidget factor: B+ Smooth, so easy on pockets. Its pretty big, but carries well. I do dig it.

The 3 budget knives look like a great option too! Can't go wrong with Spyderco. I've been eyeballing the Rat2 because it's such a great bang for your buck. Dunno that CRKT but it looks cool.

I think I'd go 452CF in the end.

 

[Blackf77t]

I think my first question before suggestion would be.... Have you ever handled the Manix? Because many people tend to compare it to Axis locks, yourself included. But in my limited experience (with my own Manix 2 LW), it may look like an Axis, but does not function like one. I'm referring to the fact that mine requires approximately 7-10 times the pull force to unlock. While my Axis locks are very easy to manipulate with one hand, my Manix is usually a two hand process. And pulling from one side only as I often do with the Axis, is not possible by me with the M2LW. I'm not saying the Manix is a bad knife, only that it's best if handled first. So if purchased, it's not just because it "looks" like an Axis locked knife.

This is good advice. I am not assuming I will be able to use it one handed, but I have seen people do it online. I doubt I would get a good feel for it until after I buy it and use it for a few days.

Out of the choices above, I'd say the ZT. My ZT's usually fill the roll of both heavy duty knife, and fidget toys.

Based on the feedback, I am leaning toward saving up to get both of them.

 

[gazz98]

Welcome to Bladeforums!

If I absolutely had to choose one of your three choices, I'd pick the Manix.

Although I would suggest you save up for a Rat 1 in D2 at some time. It really is a great knife for the money. Hopefully the GFN handles will be ok for you.

If you have a big hand (like I do), I would suggest the Cold Steel Recon 1. Linked to BHQ for easy reference.
https://www.bladehq.com/item--Cold-Steel-Recon-1-Lockback-Knife--83442
Not the easiest for one hand opening. It's thumb stud isn't as easy as a Spydie hole or pulling back on the Axis lock. I don't know how important that is for you. The Triad lock is one of the strongest in the business and CS does a good job on their S35VN.

If you want something a little less expensive and don't mind metal handles (I don't like them myself), there is the CS Code 4.
https://www.bladehq.com/item--Cold-Steel-Code-4-Clip-Point-Knife--15397

 

[Blackf77t]

I love your 3 options.

Thanks. I am really torn and dying to buy a new knife. I have spent about a month reading everything I can find.

I own and quite often carry the SpyderCo Sage 3 (which, arguably, is similar to the Manix 2 https://www.bladeforums.com/threads/manix-2-vs-sage-3.833233/ feel free to set me straight BF!) and I love that Sage 3. Drops shut. The bolt lock is great but not very fidgety. Very comfortable in hand. The textured G10 is hard on pockets. These traits may apply to that Manix2. Maybe check out that Sage 3 if you're interested.

I did consider the Sage and like the blade shape. Sage 3 is discontinued and $250. I would probably rather the Zero Tolerance 0562 at that price. The Sage 5 is a compression lock. I think I would like the compression lock if it was bigger, easier to access, and took a little less pressure to close.

I'd lusted after the 452CF for a year and finally got it. It's in my pocket now and it is sweet. You're right, you do sorta need to watch your fingers while closing if you want to palm grip it until the blade is all the way closed. It's so thin overall for such a big ass knife. Kinda thick-bladed compared to Spydercos. I can see why some folks thin it up behind the edge. It pretty well drops shut with a little help so there are safer closing techniques. Fidget factor: B+ Smooth, so easy on pockets. Its pretty big, but carries well. I do dig it.

The 3 budget knives look like a great option too! Can't go wrong with Spyderco. I've been eyeballing the Rat2 because it's such a great bang for your buck. Dunno that CRKT but it looks cool.

I think I'd go 452CF in the end.

I really wanted the Zero Tolerance 0450cf. It is the only gentleman style blade that has any appeal to me. Unfortunately, It looks like the handle is a half inch to short to be comfortable. If I could handle it in person, I could be sure but I don't have that option.

The Zero Tolerance 0562 is slightly longer, but still has a 3.5 inch blade. This seems to be the sweet spot, at least for me. It also looks similiar to the Kershaw Knockout, which I really enjoy.

The Zero Tolerance 0452cf has a 4.1 inch blade. I don't have a problem with it, but I don't need that big a knife, I don't want to run into legal issues, and I don't want to scare anyone. I don't think its for me, but I am happy to hear you found a knife you really like.

 

[Blackf77t]

I'm only showing you this because it's another bargain at about $100 ( IMO).

It's a large knife , a little bigger than the ZT, but slightly smaller than the the Manix XL.
It's a Dendra Deer Hunter, made by Lionsteel of Italy.

I have the Defender model which is full titanium on the lock side , this one is a liner lock.

They're very well made knives and I believe they were a small run and are no longer made.
The sites that still have them are closing them out. Read the specs and make sure it's not too larger or heavy for your needs.

That knife looks really cool. I had no idea it existed. I would like to consider it, but do they have support/warranty?

 

[Blackf77t]

Welcome to Bladeforums!

If I absolutely had to choose one of your three choices, I'd pick the Manix.

Although I would suggest you save up for a Rat 1 in D2 at some time. It really is a great knife for the money. Hopefully the GFN handles will be ok for you.

If you have a big hand (like I do), I would suggest the Cold Steel Recon 1. Linked to BHQ for easy reference.
https://www.bladehq.com/item--Cold-Steel-Recon-1-Lockback-Knife--83442
Not the easiest for one hand opening. It's thumb stud isn't as easy as a Spydie hole or pulling back on the Axis lock. I don't know how important that is for you. The Triad lock is one of the strongest in the business and CS does a good job on their S35VN.

If you want something a little less expensive and don't mind metal handles (I don't like them myself), there is the CS Code 4.
https://www.bladehq.com/item--Cold-Steel-Code-4-Clip-Point-Knife--15397

If I am being honest with myself, I will probably end up buying everything on that list eventually.

Cold Steel Recon 1 is probably a little big at 4 inches. I like the handle, blade shape, size and backlock on the Code 4. I might add that to my list.

Thank you for the suggestions.

 

[guy g]

FRN will bend in my hands, which to me feels cheap and unreliable. I really don't understand why people will trade liners for 2 oz of weight.

Ok I hadn't noticed that, makes sense that without liners there may be more flex.

The Native 5 looks awesome, but paying $185 to get liner version or paying $120 to get a Manix 2 seems like a bad trade.

I own a Spyderco Sharpmaker, nano oil, and torx screws. I took the Kershaw Clash apart twice and the cheap screws broke. I really didn't want to break the Griptilian and I heard good things

Not having any experience with the manix, that certainly makes sense. And I also have owned the Sharpmaker since it came with a VHS tape for the instructions. I like the thought you are putting in to this and I am learning a bit more about knives that are out of my normal narrow thought process.