Opinions/experiences of Odyssey?

J

James Y

Joined
Feb 18, 1999
Messages
6,504
Either in the 420 HC or ATS-34.

I see the advantage of ATS is the edge-holding, yet its disadvantage is it only comes in half-serrated version.

The 420 HC would have superior corrosion resistance, and also comes in all plain edge, disadvantage is in edge-holding, but ought to resharpen easily on a Sharpmaker.

They both seem like great values...I don't yet own one. I'd like to learn others' experiences, regarding the liner lock's strength/reliability under reasonable normal use, stability of the frame/handle during use, carry comfort, cutting performance, etc.

Any replies appreciated.
Jim
 
Jim,

I think it is one of the best values in the folder market. I have been carrying the plain edge 420hc version for around six months now. I haven't done a lot of heavy cutting with it. Just the mundane everyday kind of tasks you use a pocket knife for. I haven't had to sharpen it yet and it still is very sharp. It is one of the sharpest out of the box knives I have ever seen. It is weird though. When I did my normal run the thumb across the blade test, it didn't feel very sharp at all. You have to turn the bottom of the blade in a little (towards your thumb) to really feel how sharp it is. It is easy to disassemble and put back together. It has a real smooth action. I loosened it up just a tiny bit and it literally flies open. It is a very quick to deploy knife. The tip is very pointy and should penetrate soft targets rather easily. It is on the delicate side though and I wouldn't recommend prying anything with it. The handle is lightly textured and feels durable. For that matter, the whole knife feels solid and put together well from the first time you pick it up. I compared it to a Spyderco Endura and it felt more solid and less plastic feeling. I have the version with only one locking liner so it wouldn't be as solid as the dual liner version they are selling now. (I am making an assumption here as I haven't seen one of the dual liners yet.) The knife has a unique look to it reminiscent of the Spydercos and seems to draw the interest of knife and non-knife people alike. I don't like 50/50 blades so that is why I bought the 420 version. If they made the ATS 34 version in plain edge with the dual liners I think I would have to retire this one.
Anyway, I hope this helps you out and I would recommend this blade without reservations.

Take care,
Jim
 
Hunter:
Thanks for the reply!
I bought one yesterday, and you're right, the action is extremely smooth and comfortable. I got the plain 420 HC version too.
Oddly, the edge on mine was not up to snuff, I realized as I got home and did some simple cutting tests. Which is unusual, as virtually all my Buck knives are scary sharp out of the box. I spent time with my Gatco Tri-Seps, then my Spyderco Sharpmaker...not too long, just enough to make the edge feel and perform sharper.

Other than that, it's a great knife. I plan to use it as a fishing or recreational knife as opposed to a daily carry. Mine has the double steel liners. It's even a pleasure to just play with, opening and closing very easily and reliably.
Jim
 
Jim,

Glad to hear you bought one! Sorry to hear about the edge. I know what you mean about flicking it open all the time. Loosen the pivot screw and it gets even more addicting.

Take care,
Jim
 
I have the carbon fiber ATS-34 version and I think it takes this model to it's zenith - except... combo edge. This knife cries out for plain edge, just go over to the plain or serrated thread and see how many of us agree.
I love the shape, materials, you name it, but it needs a plain edge version. I can't figure out why the low end of this series is in plain edge and the upper end in combo-edge, seems counter to market trends, IMHO. Ok, I'm going to turn off the rant mode now, after all, I DO like this model a lot.

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Buck Collectors Club Member # 572
Dedicated ELU
Talonite fan
Knifeknut(just ask my wife)
 
Hey!!! I LIKE the combo edge. Then again, I like serrations more than most people.
Personally, I Love the ergonomics of the odyssey. It handles as well as any other folder I've every carried (and better than most). If you're looking for something with a nice sharp point for precision work, this is your baby. The choke up is very nice. It has a cut away on the blade, and very comfortable ridges for your thumb.

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EdRozen - On the cutting edge of finding out what the cutting edge is.....
 
I’ve got the 420 HC also. I’d like a plan edge ATS 34. Please make one! The only change I could see making in the overall design of the knife would be recessing the liner lock more into the handle. It can dig into your finger, protruding as it does and I could see the blade accidentally releasing, given that much access—not that mine ever has.

All in all a great knife!

Walter
 
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