Need help with a purchase decision!

[FanBoy86]

I have about an extra $100(give an extra $20 or so) bucks that im going to have this weekend that ive been able to set aside and use for a new knife purchase. Theres just a few options i have in mind and was wondering if anyone that owns any of these could chime in and throw out your recommendation.

The few I have in mind are:
Spyderco Military
Spyderco Manix 2 XL
HK 14715
Maxpedition Excelsa Lrg
Kershaw Launch 1

I own a pm2 and a Mnx2 and thought having their larger cousins would be nice. And I dont own a Benchmade yet, though im not a big fan of the 551's zytel handle, so thats why I went with the HK model. I cant bring myself to spend the $ on a sebenza, so thats why the exelsa is on the list, a nice titanium framelock for a good price. Please, help me spend my $ wisely!

 

[DocT]

One of the Spydercos would be the most satisfying.

I have another idea. Buy a Spyderco Endura and put the rest of the money in a US Savings Bond. They start around $65 for the VG10 version and the hot new HAP40 (like M4) is $90. A Millie will run around $145 and the XL is around $109.
Given your price range I would go for the Manix 2 XL if I did not buy the Endura.

 

[DRK]

the Manix XL is pretty large and pretty heavy.

I have had both a titanium and a G10 Millie and I would say the G10 is the one I liked the best. It is an exceptional knife, really light for the size and a great variety of grip positions. I much preferred it to the Para 2.

I don't think you would be disappointed with the HK if you like the Axis lock (and what's not to like) I have an HK 14205 which is exceptional. If you can afford a little more the Benchmade 940 is an amazing, iconic knife.

Two others I would suggest are: the ZT 0350 if you are looking for something more robust that is a change from your Manix 2 (providing you like assisted). The Emerson CQC15 honestly an amazing knife. Probably the best ergonomics of any knife I have ever owned and the blade grind is truly unique.