Opinion on budget EDC

J

JDX

Joined
Mar 2, 2014
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Budget being less than $100 including shipping and/or tax.

3.5 inches of less

Not ready to buy just yet, just trying to weigh out my options and gather information.

I'm not extremely choosy when it comes to handle material or steel. As long as it's not super cheap feeling. I'd consider Aus 8, but would prefer something with a little better edge retention. Same with FRN in terms of handle material, I'd prefer g-10 or better.

I'm pretty open to everything else, except NO SLIPJOINTS. I need one handed opening.

It will be used for more abrasive edc tasks, such as breaking down cardboard, cutting through various material and fabrics from tough plastics to burlap, to denim. I cut tons of cordage daily, mostly commercial grade rope and cordage (used to tie items to pallets at my job)

I own several knives already and none really last the day for me. And id like to have something that lasts the week and maybe only requires a quick strop or touch up (I use a spyderco sharp maker)

So far my rotation includes:
-Spyderco Paramilitary 2
-Zero Tolerance 0350
-Spyderco Delica 4 FFG
-Buck 110
-Cold Steel Recon 1
-Kershaw Blur S30V
-Ontario Rat 1


Also, it can be folder or fixed but if it's a fixed blade, I'd prefer te sheathe to have the belt clip, I don't use MOLLE, and I'm not a fan of the loop for the belt. I'd prefer the clip. Maybe an izula or candiru?

Open to suggestions, thank you
 
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I use the Benchmade H&K 14716 Mini Axis.

It has a G-10 handle that is securely shaped and textured.

The D2 takes a good edge and hangs on to it long enough. I also use a Sharpmaker, and it makes quick work of getting an excellent edge.

It's under your $100 mark, and it's built to last under your working conditions.

I like AUS-8 a lot myself. But I wouldn't choose it for the work you're putting it through. The D2 on the H&K will get you there.
 
Boker Plus has some nice Krein designs with sheaths that should work for you. An Izula kit is always a great <$100 option. For folders the ZT350 or Buck 110/112 would be good choices. The Bucks will probably want sheath carry because of weight and bulk.
 
Kizer Vanguard Gemini. You can't beat it at $80, unless it's another Kizer ;)
 
Colt linerlock in D2. Two models (both 3.25 inch blade); one textured G10; other aluminum body with rubber grip inserts (my preference). Great knife, takes and holds its edge, light weight and inexpensive (under $20). Can't go wrong - give it a try.
Rich
 
If the paramilitary s30v is not making it through the day you are going to need something like s110v or s90v or m390 etc. How about the manix or native lightweight in s110v? It's at it around your price point. None of the steels above are going to outlast s30v much less the other suggestions. The native forum is in sale with the spyderco discount code. Its s90v. You could look at m390 benchmade used knives as well.
 
Well I don't know if it will be better than the s30v knives you own but I really like my cold steel code 4 and the ctsxhp steel holds its edge quite well

 
JDX if you do not have an Izula you should think about getting one. I have a couple and edc them in my front pocket. The Izula 2 has a longer grip. Also, the Cold Steel Mini Pendleton Hunter in 3V is a good, stout little knife. I do not own one but it is in the works.
 
I like the izula. However if you can get s30v to last a day of work there is no way 1095 will. You need a super steel of some sort. Xhp won't be that different. 3v I cannot comment on but it's supposed to be wonderful.
 
DocT said:
Also, the Cold Steel Mini Pendleton Hunter in 3V is a good, stout little knife. I do not own one but it is in the works.
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IMG_2559_zpsqshwapjc.jpg


I can recommend this one, as well. It's a very solid little knife with enough handle for a four finger grip (large hands, here) in my new 3V model. The sheath (sorry, no pics yet) has a belt loop, but it attaches with a flap that has a button snap and velcro (very secure). No need to remove the belt to attach or remove it.
 
What about a Delica or Endura in ZDP-189? I would think even with your heavy usage, you should be able to get close to a week without touching up.
 
What Neffarious said....

neffarious said:
If the paramilitary s30v is not making it through the day you are going to need something like s110v or s90v or m390 etc. How about the manix or native lightweight in s110v? It's at it around your price point. None of the steels above are going to outlast s30v much less the other suggestions. The native forum is in sale with the spyderco discount code. Its s90v. You could look at m390 benchmade used knives as well.
Click to expand...
 
I'm a big fan of the Kershaw Leek, good working size without being in the way when you don't need it. The edge might nt last a week, but I suspect that it will get you through a couple of days.
 
Just a clarification: it's not that s30v isn't lasting the week. I mean it still cuts, but sometimes I need my to rely on my blade being near hair shaving sharp for some tasks. Perhaps I'll just carry a back up or even a box cutter for this (cutting through carpet with a dull knife is ridiculous) but for the other tasks it would no problem. Thanks for all the information.
 
Of your list, get both the Buck 110 and Ontario RAT 1. (This will take about half your budget) Then, get a SAK Recruit or Tinker, and maybe a Rough Rider stockman.
 
What your criteria should mainly be focused on is the steel, many of these suggestions are a joke, get s110v something or other, or something similar if you expect better edge holding than your pm2.
 
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