Ok, so is the Griptilian about the best buy for $60ish?

[xmtgx]

There are some very reliable sellers on ebay for new knives; one
I'd recommend highly is "knivesflacowboy".

But I'd personally go with an online dealer, and for Benchmade
I'd recommend www.gpknives.com.

My .02

The best site I've found for any knife is www.thebladeshop.com
If they have the knife there its your best bet. If you find it cheaper some where else (with the shipping+handling) then give them a call and they will sell you theirs for 5% cheaper.
But they don't carry every knife available like some other sites do.

 

[Gena]

The best site I've found for any knife is www.thebladeshop.com
If they have the knife there its your best bet. If you find it cheaper some where else (with the shipping+handling) then give them a call and they will sell you theirs for 5% cheaper.
But they don't carry every knife available like some other sites do.

Thebladeshop is one of the worst sites. :thumbdn: They have a very little stock, they charge your card right away and then you will have to spend your time and test your patience to get your money back.

 

[omaha-beenglockin]

GP and New graham are the best out there----sometimes you can get a good deal on fleabay

 

[TheFlash]

I've had great experiences with both NewGraham and Knifeworks.

I do believe that the Griptilian is one of the best values out there (still), but my own preference was for the older style blade opening hole. I much preferred the oval blade hole (and often chamfered/bevelled edge of the hole) to the current model with the round Spydie-type hole.
I never had any problems with the 440C blades' edgeholding and I've used my Grippies very hard.
One additional advantage point to the Grippies is that the modified sheepsfoot blade really is 'sheeple' friendly. I was using a Grippie (mini) to cut bread and cheese at outdoors music concerts and no one even looked twice in my direction or was concerned at all.

That said, I also have Delicas and love them, too...
I just like the form, fit and function of the Grippies a bit better...

Regards,
Mike

 

[T.K.C.]

I would prefer a Delica or Endura over a Griptilian, but that is just ME.

 

[Ludwig]

I just ordered a Griptilian with plain edge from GP Knives, and now I'm getting nervous about the order. There seems to be a general consensus about the Grip and its high quality, but the grip is too plasticky? I guess I'll have to buy an Endura as well to compare them. . .oh well.

 

[Trout Tamer]

I just ordered a Griptilian with plain edge from GP Knives, and now I'm getting nervous about the order. There seems to be a general consensus about the Grip and its high quality, but the grip is too plasticky?

I was worried about the exact same thing, especially after reading many people's opinions about the handle. However, the decision was made for me - I was given a 551 Grip in D2 from Cabela's for Christmas in December of '03. It's been my EDC nearly every day since :thumbup: Suffice to say, I find the handle to be plenty tough. It's also comfortably light-weight, to boot. Odds are, you'll like your Grip. If you don't, you'll probably find someone who'd love to get one as a gift or is willing to buy it off you

 

[Steven Andrews]

You'll have to decide for yourself about the grip of the Grip

It is true that is feels quite plasticky, but the Noryl GTX is strong and lightweight. When you're carrying a lot of equipment weight starts to become an issue. As a firefighter I carry a multi tool, flashlight and knife in pouches on my uniform belt. In my fire kit I have another knife, two flashlights and a pair of pliers (plus two pairs of gloves, fire hood, lines, door wedges, .. etc)

The knives are both Griptilian variants -an RSK Mk1 on my uniform belt and a 550HG in my firejacket.

There are knives that feel less plasticky that the Grips, but I'd rather carry those two that a pair of 520 Presidios

 

[Ludwig]

Thanks for the reassurance. I highly doubt that I won't like it

 

[sleeper3]

I just ordered a Griptilian with plain edge from GP Knives, and now I'm getting nervous about the order. There seems to be a general consensus about the Grip and its high quality, but the grip is too plasticky? I guess I'll have to buy an Endura as well to compare them. . .oh well.

Like Steven said, you have to hold it yourself to decide. I can tell you that in some ways it may "feel" cheap, but it is in actuality very durable and lightweight. It's very scratch resistant and I've read reviews from users who've had theirs for years and the handle still looks like new.

I've had great experiences with both NewGraham and Knifeworks.

I agree with you on Knifeworks, very quick shipping and great service. They also don't charge a restocking fee for returns as long as you don't abuse the policy. You can also easily speak with the owner directly over the phone.