Para 3 or Sage 5

U

ucfgrad93

Joined
Dec 13, 2017
Messages
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Looking to upgrade my EDC from my SAK Tinker to either the Para 3 or Sage 5. What would you recommend and why?
 
Sage 5 is my vote...the Para 3 just doesn't fit my hand that well. You should try both in hand, if possible, before you buy.
 
If you're talking S30V, go Sage 5. Para 3 will be released in so many other steels and the Sage 5 is S30V only. Might as well get it and a Para 3 later. Sage won't tear up your pockets and will probably be a slightly better slicer.
 
I haven’t handle either knifebut have been eyeing the sage 5 for a little while. Nicer looking all around over the para 3.
Im assuming you’ve done your homework , but if not, the para 3 is USA made. The sage is Taiwan. Not that it really matters towards build quality. The native is another option to consider if you haven’t browsed around already.
 
For which tasks do you want it?
How do you want to carry it?

I do not know Sage 5
Para3 is a great knife, but the clip sits too low.
If you want something similar but smaller and lighter try Lil Native or Dragonfly.
 
I carry the Para 3 in Cruwear without clip daily.
Prefer to use a Victorinox nylon belt pouch or loose in pocket.

Very comfortable in hand without clip and compression lock allows free falling open / close of blade.

Cruwear, S110V and upcoming Maxamet, S90V and other unique steels.

Regards,
FK
 
Sage5. Fits my hand better, carries better, thinner blade stock slices better, handles feel awesome in hand. The only thing I like better about the Para3 is the flat spine, but it's at such a downward angle compared to the PM2 is really doesn't work for my thumb.
 
*sigh*.....I had ask this very question two months ago....so I ended up with a fluted Mil, a plain Ti Mil, and now expecting a second spare ti mil(super sale!!!) and a s110v mil.....I've got the sickness my friends :D
 
Also, if you are looking for something a little bit smaller than the Sage 5 (but very similar), try the Chaparral. Comes in CTS-XHP steel (which is awesome) and a back lock. Great little slicer!
 
Get the Sage 5 now, it is an awesome knife! And wait for a Sprint Para 3 with a steel upgrade! I absolutely love my Para 3 in Cruwear.
 
The P3 is a great knife IMO but not perfect for everyone. The clip placement absolutely sucks (under $20 for a deep carry clip and mine is now perfect) and it isn’t comfortable in my hand unless I choke up on the blade. Not an issue for me as I always use the blade choil /jimping.

I really like the Native 5 too. Smaller than the P3, but feels great in the hand. I prefer it over the Sage 5 ergonomically but they are very close in size and look.
 
Para 3 gets my vote. I love the way it feels in hand, built tough, and it's a perfect size for EDC. The Para 3 is really badass. I never had a Sage but I know a lot of people love it. Seems win/win.
 
Keep in mind that the Para 3 sticks up out of the pocket further than the PM2 because of the lanyard hole. So if its comfortable carry you're after, then I would go with the sage 5
 
Owned both, sold both, but I prefered the para 3 in most areas. The wire clip and deeper carry of the sage 5 is it's only saving grace imo. Might give the para 3 a shot again with a different steel.
 
Knife Center has a Para 3 for preorder in carbon fiber and S90V. It is a bit pricey, but looks fantastic.
 
This has been debated before. Do a search on here. But I prefer the Sage 5. The Sage series has the best ergonomics to me and love the blade shape and length. Add the compression lock, deep carry clip, it's a winner.
 
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