New knife under 150 online

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Dec 30, 2008
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Hey guys. I've been on this forum i want to say for over 15 years, been through a new user names (i was young and forgetful!) but i've stuck around! I don't post much out in this area of the forums anymore because i've found my own little areas i like to hover in. But seeing as how this question is a general one, what better place to put it in. I'm looking for yet another knife (we all know the struggle). I currently EDC a Large Chris Reeve Sebenza 21 in carbon fiber, a spyderco caly 3 in carbon fiber/ZDP-189, a benchmade griptilian in D2, a spyderco military, a customized ZT 0561, a leatherman charge tti, kershaw blur and spyderco manix 2 xl. Oh, i forgot one. My most carried, nearly perfect EDC (lets face it, no EDC is 100% perfect no matter how much you try and convince yourself) is a Spyderco ParaMilitary 2 (you're shocked, aren't you). I'm looking to buy a new knife. I'm a spyderco fan and haven't bought a benchmade in many many years, but the aluminum handles they're putting out i've been checking out. It can be a manual or assisted opening. I'd like aluminum handles. Plain edge. A higher end steel (doesn't have to be any more fancy than s30v, i've found i like that, but if it is no big deal). I do like 154cm as well. I used to be a big hater of tip up, but now prefer it if the knife feels right tip up, but it's not a big deal breaker. I'd like to stay away from the lower end knives. I know 150 isn't a huge allowance, but it should get me something i enjoy for a little while anyways. Maybe two knives? I was recently into traditional pocket knives, put my name on the list for a canal street forum knife and was happy with it, as well as a case pattern. But i'd like something modern. Just time for the excitement of a new knife purchase! If you have anything close to 150, if it's 170 or so i'll consider it, but it's got to be awesome. I looked at the emissary as well as thr amicus from benchmade but couldn't locate one in my price range. Don't let my family know i'm buying another knife, they'll ship me out of the state, lol.
 
I have a couple that I can recommend. The first is an updated version of a knife you already have, it is the Benchmade 551-1. The new G10 handles and cpm-s20v (very similar to m390) blade steel are a big improvement over the original. I have had mine for about a month. It sees regular pocket time along with my PM2, and 940. My second recommendation is the Enzo Birk 75 with G10 handle scales and full flat grind cpm s30v blade steel. I previously owned this knife with the scandi-grind, sadly I lost it a few years ago. I like it so much I am planning to buy another in the near future. having already tried the scandi-grind I think the full flat grid will work a little better for EDC tasks. Here is a video review I made sometime ago about the knife. It has lots of closeups to show the quality of the fit and finish, which are excellent.

[video]https://youtu.be/hqctAtsT848[/video]
 
I have a couple that I can recommend. The first is an updated version of a knife you already have, it is the Benchmade 551-1. The new G10 handles and cpm-s20v (very similar to m390) blade steel are a big improvement over the original. I have had mine for about a month. It sees regular pocket time along with my PM2, and 940. My second recommendation is the Enzo Birk 75 with G10 handle scales and full flat grind cpm s30v blade steel. I previously owned this knife with the scandi-grind, sadly I lost it a few years ago. I like it so much I am planning to buy another in the near future. having already tried the scandi-grind I think the full flat grid will work a little better for EDC tasks. Here is a video review I made sometime ago about the knife. It has lots of closeups to show the quality of the fit and finish, which are excellent.

[video]https://youtu.be/hqctAtsT848[/video]

Thank you for the recommendations. My next grip if i get one will have the sheepsfoot blade. Does the g10 make it sound more stout when the blade is opened? I like a lot of benchmades designs but can't bring myself to pay their prices because i like so many of them. Spyderco overall from what i've bought of both companies has a better fit and finish and you get more for your money. If i could nail down one higher class benchmade knife in a design i liked, i'd get it. I've handled their aluminum handled knives and love them, but i'm not partial to one company.
 
I have found a birk FFG 75 with carbon fiber scales s30v for 145, but would like to see other options as well. It's on my list! Was unaware of this company
 
The g10 version does in fact have a different clicking noise when opening it than the original version. Its click sounds more solid with the g10 version. The axis lock is my favorite part of Benchmade knives. I have also been able to find good deals tn the exchange section of this site for new or like new knives. I got mine for $140 on ebay.

Regarding Spyderco value for price, I agree. I recently picked up the 2016 upgraded version of the Paramilitary 2 with cpm s110v steel and Blue/Purple handles. I found it for $150 on Amazon. That is another great $150 option. I have not had mine long enough to compare the wear resistance vs the s30v version but I am sure the s110v is higher.
 
I think the BM 810-1401 is oe of the best deals still out there. I agree and I recently purchased a Spyderco Native 5 w/ S110V in Blue G-10 for $149..that and the PM2 in same configuration are great deals, IMO. As well as the new BHQ Exclusive's.

If your a fan of Osbourne and the 940 (granted, if you want a 94x, its a tough argument to convince you of another in that size, great knife.) And your not afraid of 4" folders, a fan of the Axis lock, the 810 is a great knife. Carries better than the Millie (of which Im a huge fan) No aluminum scales, but it does have multi colored G-10..and a hell of a lot of M390, build quality and CS support in that price range.
 
I will throw in the Benchmade 940. I bought both of my 940s on the used market for under $150. If you don't mind carbon fiber scales I would suggest the Gayle Bradley 2. M4 goodness and great value.
 
My favorite folder is an Emerson horseman. It might be a little over your budget but i think its an awesome knife. Best 154cm ive ever used.
 
You can now create a griptilian in their custom shop with a sheepsfoot blade using m4 or 20cv, standard scales and no personalisation should land you 155-160 respectively.

Keep in mind you still have to pay shipping.
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Some Emersons will come with a "V" grind and it will be denoted in the model number. But they aren't that common (others may correct me, but I believe I am correct).
I believe I have seen 2 or 3 pop up on the exchange since I have been here.
 
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