Paramilitary 2 or ZT 0550: Best Camp Knife?

You already have a 550 for camping, I say stick with it. The PM2 isn't going to do anything else better. Now, if you just really want to get a PM2, go for it. Its the favorite of a lot of members here.
 
If you're already carrying a folder, I would go fixed blade for the other. For the activities you mentioned like cutting food, small branches, whittling etc.., maybe something like a mora companion stainless steel.
 
I will go with the family and suggest you get a small fixed blade. A lot of choices there for all budgets. Custom fixed blades are really affordable compared to custom folders. I would suggest (in $$$ order):
- Mora
- ESEE
- Fiddleback Forge (custom).
 
Thanks all. Great advice once again.

I guess I may keep the ZT 0550 given I already have it and do really like it and it will do everything the PM2 will do, just a bit beefier. I'm sure I will eventually get a PM2. Last week I was looking at the Benchmade 375 fixed Adamas. I assume the Mora, Esee brands etc... may be a little easier in the hand, from the looks of things. I still may just use my old Buckmaster 184 for the time being but will probably sell it for something lighter. It is a beast. So far, I really like the look of the ESEE 4 but it is expensive.

I really can't believe how good this forum is.
 
My take...

If you are around normal campgrounds and doing car camping, I would steer clear of fixed blades for carry. Pack a hatchet for dealing with camp wood splitting. Pack a "fixed blade" in with your cooking stuff for dealing with food.

But for the uses you describe, you're really talking about an EDC type carry that can handle brush cutting. Pocket carry will make it possible to have with you all the time. I find that flat/convex grinds go through wood easier than hollow grinds. I find I hate loosing expensive things while out and about. I find that traditional knives "scare" normal folks less than tacticals. I find that Opinel lock rings are nearly impervious to wear and tear under hard use cutting brush, wood and feather sticks.

Based on all of this, I would get an Opinel to fit your hand. If you wear a M or L glove, the Opinel #8 might be enough. I wear XL gloves and prefer the #9. I hike, camp, ski tour year round and the only thing I won't do with the Opinel #9 is baton with it day in/day out. Occasionally, yes (just keep the lock ring off).

Paired with a small multitool in the off pocket, and I can deal with most anything.

edc-pair by Pinnah, on Flickr
 
If you want a knife similar to an ESEE look at the Ka-Bar Becker line. Specifically the BK 15, 16, and 17.
 
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