Newbie needs help

[expwmbat]

I've just been bitten by the slippie bug, and kinda need one. What I would like, ideally, is a shadow model with Zulu style blade (assuming I've written that description correctly). But frankly, beggars can't be choosers, and I'm pretty open to whatever comes my way.

That said, I've got my eye on several different possibilities from some excellent makers. Between the three, for something that would play an EDC role and actually be used, would you jump for a Davison, Menefee or Dowell, all other things being equal? Or is this just a win, win, win option?

I'm open to being told to just start with something cheaper, but in my experience that almost always leads to the realization that I should have just saved the money and jumped in the deep end to begin with.

Cheers!
Daniel

 

[Blues]

Everyone has their personal favorites for any number of reasons but in my view, from amongst the three names you mentioned, you wouldn't come away disappointed regardless of which maker you choose.

 

[shrapne1]

I agree with Elliott's assessment; its like comparing apples with oranges with pineapples, they're all good, but in their own special way.
Choosing a knife can be tedious, just keep this in your mind: whichever of the three you get, youre going to get a prime specimen, so with that part out of the way, choose a knife that struck your eye the most, or the pattern you most fancy.

 

[quattromori]

I will add something to Elliott's post, since lately I had a pleasant conversation with him more or less on the same topic.
I'm sure you would be perfectly happy with any of these three makers. So, that should ease your mind, and allow you to choose by heart. I'm sure that, when you look at the wonderful knives made by these knifemakers, there will be one who catches your eye the most. So, for what it's worth, my advice is to follow your instinct. Quality won't be an issue. So let your instinct decide.

Fausto