The 0770 has a smaller look and feel to it, to the point I've heard some criticism that it doesn't deserve the ZT name because it's not a big, heavy, folder, to me it feels more like a Blur than any of the ZT models. If the 0566 didn't have a heavy steel handle I believe it would recive some of the same criticisim. ZT is trending toward a more rounded portfolio of knives, they've already got plenty of hard use folders, what they don't have are any smaller, lighter models built with the same premium materials and robust design philosophy, although the newest models are certainly headed that direction. I'm confident ZT will continue to produce hard use, tactical knives, but their product offerings will broaden somewhat so that they have at least one model that appeals to everyone rather they're an operator, a contractor, an outdoorsman or collector.
I won't try and tell KAI what they should make because I know my tastes are unique to myself and don't represent the entire market, but I'm glad ZT and Kershaw are finally getting away from stale Ken Onion inspired designs. I don't need another recurved blade or a handle the shape of a pineapple.
Bingo.
Not everyone likes the large "overbuilt" style of knives, myself included. I've owned many ZTs and ended up selling nearly all of them because they're a little too big, cumbersome, and heavy for me to carry. I do plan on getting a 770 when the CF version hits the streets.
But I would argue that this "overbuilt" genre of knives is an illusion. Yes, a thicker blade stock, and full handed handles are definite benefits in hard use tasks. But realistically, there are smaller and sleeker alternatives that, in my opinion, are just as strong as any ZT. I would love to see someone try and break a Benchmade 940 or Griptillian without misusing it. Neither of those are widely considered "overbuilt". A Spyderco Manix II or Para II is also, in my opinion, every bit as tough when used properly. But hey, maybe I'm wrong, suppose it is true ZTs are stronger. Does that mean some users NEED the extra strength? Would they eventually break a Griptillian and therefore would have been better off with a 550?
...I doubt it.
"Overbuilt" knives have more of a psychological effect on users than a practical one. If you see thicker titanium you assume it's stronger. In reality the thinner stock provided more than enough strength than 99% of users would ever need. But I'm not trying to imply that the feeling you get from having a beefy knife is misguided. I totally understand liking or disliking products for reasons that are not 100% grounded in fact. A Sebenza does not open an envelope any better than a Kershaw Skyline, even though some will try and argue it really does as if that justifies their purchase. I love my small Sebenza. I don't need a factual reason to justify buying it.
Of course there are other aspects to the ZT line that make them more ideal than other makes in many situations. I love the simplicity of a good framelock. They are (along with other names like Hinderer, Strider, and Emerson) more easily "in the field" serviceable. My point is a knife doesn't have to look or feel "overbuilt" to be a tough knife, and "overbuilt" is often "overkill". But hey, if you like it, go for it.
Thus, I would like to see more smaller and sleeker ZT knives, or high-end Kershaws. Seems like Kershaw is being swept overseas nowadays, and the only time they come out with anything with high-end materials is in sprint runs, and even those have been on the decline. Really I just want to see more USA made, urban EDC friendly, high-end knives come from KAI.
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