Recommendation? New guy...help me pick my next knife?

[BITEME]

Massdrop Keen

 

[ratter75]

The 575 that I had was a very nice update to the original 525. Slightly larger, good balance, really good action, and a nice overall feel. I just really dislike metal handles of any kind, so I moved it along and picked up a G10 Freek.

Yep the more I think about it, selling the 570 and getting a 575SBK is one of my top options right now. Wish I could find one to handle in person. I’m a little concerned that even the mini would be too bulky.

 

[Cosmodragoon]

I hear what you’re saying...It’s a completely subjective enjoyment/pride of ownership thing. Especially if I’m gonna drop $200 or more, that’s a ton of money for me. I want it to be something I can feel good about...

I know what you mean. If I was going to drop $200 on a knife, I'd certainly be looking at American products first. I guess the question becomes if you want to drop $200 on a knife. It sounds like the Cryo works but doesn't give you that pride of ownership. I get that. The Cryo is only running 8Cr13Mov and in my opinion, it's overpriced at almost $40. So what if you could find a knife that you'd be proud or at least happy to own for that kind of price?

The way I see it, a proper knife should have decent steel, a good edge, a nice action, attractive looks, and great ergonomics. Considering that knives can be lost, damaged, or dirtied up in their EDC roles; I have to ask at what price I can reasonably get all those things. Just looking at Civivi because the handles may be a good fit for you...

Check out the Praxis or the Naja. For not much more than the Cryo, you can get a great cutting tool with a deep-carry clip, bearings, G10, and 9Cr18Mov. (That's a good step up in quality from 8Cr13Mov.) Their 9Cr18Mov line represents some of the best value out there under $50.

They've got a line above that in VG-10 with titanium pocket clips for $68. I mention it because the Aquila has a thumb hole. I have the Courser in green and it does draw compliments. I like the Courser's contrast of a thick and nicely chamfered handle with that blade shape. The handle does taper towards the pinky though so I'm not sure if you'd like it. Worth a look though.

I hope this helps. I'll be curious to see what you eventually choose for your new knife. If nothing else, it's a fun journey.

 

[ratter75]

Your point about losing knives is a good one. I’ve lost them before. Nothing expensive, thankfully. Exactly the reason I use Streamlight flashlights instead of Surefire.

I will check out the Civivis.

On a side note, I got a wild hair and put a distressed finish on my Presidio today. Acid washed the blade and aged the scales and hardware. I like it better already. Still too big to carry 24/7/365. So I’ll keep looking.

I think what I’m learning is that I like heavy knives. Not necessarily large but some weight in the hand. The mini grip and Skyline feel like they could blow away in a strong breeze, the Cryo and Presidio feel more substantial in a good way. Maybe that means I should stick with aluminum/titanium scales. Hmm.

 

[sixfeetdeep]

Try looking at Zero Tolerance knives. Built like a tank & they do have some heft. I've had the 0566, great knife. A little small for my hands, but overall it was excellent. I also have a 0562, 0850 & my favorite, a 0220 Anso. There is a 0220 on the folders for sale section for $170. That's in your price range. Maybe worth a look to see what they have that you'll like. I know it is overwhelming, but it is sure fun looking.

 

[ratter75]

Try looking at Zero Tolerance knives. Built like a tank & they do have some heft. I've had the 0566, great knife. A little small for my hands, but overall it was excellent. I also have a 0562, 0850 & my favorite, a 0220 Anso. There is a 0220 on the folders for sale section for $170. That's in your price range. Maybe worth a look to see what they have that you'll like. I know it is overwhelming, but it is sure fun looking.

I like all the ZT’s I have tried. I’m sorry I missed the boat on the 0300 and 0560. Those both look great to me.

 

[Cvrobinson]

OP
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CRK
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