Para 3 or AD20.5 ?

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nikshichu

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Jan 23, 2024
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I'm thinking of buying a new knife. I thought maybe I should tell you what I already own so it's easier to pick a winner. I own a small sebenza 31 plain magnacut, protech strider pt cruwear (kc exclusive), fixed adamas and a mini bugout s30v. I owned several para 3s before, but never owned a Demko. I'm interested in the dlt trading 3v tanto version, since I already own only drop point blades. How does the ad20.5 compare to the USA made ad20 quality wise? And for the para 3, I'm really digging the cpm-15v sprint run that's coming soon..
 
I have an AD20S and a two AD20.5. One of them is a full Ti 3V sharks foot. The quality is pretty well on par with the USA made full size. Can't say I have a single complaint about it. That thing is a little workhorse. The Para 3 is great, definitely a better slicer, but the 20.5 is still a pretty good cutter, and it's built like a tank by comparison.
 
I have the DLT tanto AD 20.5. I put OG aluminum scales on it. I like it. I have several other AD 20.5s and a few AD 20s. They are very similar in build quality. IMO, Demko is carrying on the old Cold Steel reputation.

One downside to the AD 20.5 versus the Para 3... it is thick behind the edge. So, if you want a very slicey blade, you may not like the Demko. IMO, they are way more durable, but they do not slice like a Para 3.

If it were me, I'd go with the Demko as I prefer strong, durable blades with strong locks, but either one is a fine choice.
 
norcalAF said:
If you like compression locks, the Bodacious is great, especially with the RSD scales!View attachment 2708344
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katguy said:
I have the DLT tanto AD 20.5. I put OG aluminum scales on it. I like it. I have several other AD 20.5s and a few AD 20s. They are very similar in build quality. IMO, Demko is carrying on the old Cold Steel reputation.

One downside to the AD 20.5 versus the Para 3... it is thick behind the edge. So, if you want a very slicey blade, you may not like the Demko. IMO, they are way more durable, but they do not slice like a Para 3.

If it were me, I'd go with the Demko as I prefer strong, durable blades with strong locks, but either one is a fine choice.
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Do you use the shark lock as a thumb ramp? Is there a chance the blade might close when you're placing your thumb on the lock while cutting?
 
RocketFoot said:
Pushing forward on the shark lock with your thumb will make it even stronger! The only way to disengage it is by pulling it to the rear.
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Yeah I know how it works I'm just worried I might pull back on the son of a gun while working 😆💀
 
I really like the 20.5 and have 2 of them now. If you want it to slice better than it does then get it and have someone do a regrind. The 20.5 is one fine folder.
 
I have about a dozen shark lock knives. Mostly 20.5s. None of them have closed on me unexpectedly. You would somehow have to pull the lock back AND up while pushing the blade forward into something. I guess that could happen, but it's not likely. IMO, it's one of the safest and strongest locks you can get in a folder.
 
katguy said:
I have about a dozen shark lock knives. Mostly 20.5s. None of them have closed on me unexpectedly. You would somehow have to pull the lock back AND up while pushing the blade forward into something. I guess that could happen, but it's not likely. IMO, it's one of the safest and strongest locks you can get in a folder.
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That's good news. Thanks!
 
the para 3 and the ad20.5 tanto 3V have IMO difference purposes, so it depends also of your intended use

If it is only for collecting I think you can go with the demko since you only have drop points for now

I would also suggest the civivi Vision fg : the super lock is very similar to the shark lock, it slice like or better than a para 3 and it is a fraction of the price of the other models….. it is not at the same quality level but still worth considering
 
elevator man said:
Sounds like you gotta decide if your picking based off knife design or steel choice.
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This time it's both. But I'm more interested in the quality and craftsmanship. Again, we're talking made in Golden, Colorado vs made in Taiwan.. Idk if it's just the blade, Demko is not specific on that.
 
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