PM2 vs. Shaman

POCEH KOCEB said:
Well, I have both knives, Shaman in Rex45, PM2 in Cruwear. I also have PM2 with tanto blade in M4. For comparing I'm putting also Manix 2,
a knife I'm not using because I usually use the XL size in S90V, but before I gave it away, I extensively used another Manix2 with composite, I believe cpm154/s90v blade.
I also added the Grip for size comparing. (sorry for the oily blade of the Shaman...)

2ZV7Ux.jpg


Now, From all of those knives, I use the most the Manix2, PM2 tanto M4, PM2 and less used is the Shaman because of the scales I received few wees back.
Yes, both, Shaman and PM2 have almost identical thickness of the spine of the blade but Shaman is much beefier and IMO there is much more material behind the edge.
I find both knives to be pretty functional but because of the blade geometry, Shaman is suitable for much more heavier tasks than the original PM2.
As others mentioned, PM2 original scales are squearish and not very comfortable. I fixed this by getting aftermarket scales that made whole world of difference, the knife is much
more usable for what I'm doing now.
Comparing both knives, I'd say the PM2 will handle normal use but it is more of a gentleman's knife than hard user. I don't have much experience with the Shaman but the way I hold it,
it is asking for heavier push on the blade, unfortunately I can't give it anything but cardboard boxes for now... 😂
From both of those, I like the ergos of the PM2 better but only because I replaced the scales.
I find both steels to be fine, the truth is - I didn't use those enough to have some solid opinion about the steel.
From both PM2 I used much more the tanto version in M4, I'm more familiar with the steel and blade geometry and the original shape of the handle doesn't bother me.
Originally the knife came with the "natural" scales, I replaced those with the other PM2's CF scales, they provide better grip because of different texture.
Compared those three PM2X2 and Shaman, to the Manix2, I used the most the Manix2, I find the handle ergos more suitable for my work, blade geometry is almost the same
as cutting angle to the handle, as on PM2 but the "belly" is probably more pronounced in PM2 and I like more straight edge so naturally Manix2 is my choice.
Locks, I don't have any issues with the locks, very natural for me to work with the Mnix2 after I used Grip's Axis for years, the compression locks on the other three knives
work just fine, never had issues with sticking locks or disengaging while twisting the knives but again, I did not have much chance to push those hard.
Anyway, I'm not expecting any issues with those locks, fiddle a lot with PM2 and it's pleasure to open and close with one hand, at least I don't have any issues.
From all of those knives, the PM2 is the easiest to disassemble with I think, less parts, followed by the Manix2 and the Grip, I'd put those on the same level.
I had more "trouble" (relative to the other 3 knives, otherwise not much issues) with the Shaman, I think because of tighter tolerances, I could be mistaking...
From all of the pictured knives the Griptilian have the most massive washers, all four of them does not have any lateral or vertical blade play.
I keep my blades little bit more tight at the pivot, I like them to only fall down slightly when the lock is dissengaged, I usually ride the blade to close it or open it, I don't flop, flick
or twist the wrist, its just a habit I developed, to be sure that the blade is locked, the thumb gives me positive feedback if I don't wave the knife out of the pocket.
I don't really know what else I can share, all of those are outstanding models, I have less experience with the Shaman but I like heavy front blade, my hands are usually numb and "tired" and
heavy knife/blade helps with control when I'm working.
Hope this will give the OP some information... :cool::thumbsup:
Click to expand...
Thanks for the breakdown and all the awesome info! I really like those black g10 PM2 scales with the inlay! That's a lot of work to make an inlay like that.
I always really wanted to like the Manix 2, I still do but something about it didn't sit right with me. I think it was all the jimping on the liners that kind of stick out passed the g10 scales. Jimpings fine but I really prefer the smoother, shallower jimping like on a PM2 or the jimping on the actual blade of the Manix 2. Although my favorite jimping is the real smooth shallow jimping with chamfered edges like on a Sebenza and some other knives.
 
sharp_edge said:
Both are good knives But neither is perfect. PM2 scales are well-known for being blocky though unless you use it to cut stuff for a long long period of time, it should not be an issue. Shaman handle is better rounded so supposedly more comfortable in hand. However, to me the handle is too narrow especially toward the butt portion. Between the two, PM2 is clearly the better slicer While Shaman can sustain more hard use. Finally, I feel Shaman is a bit overpriced.
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See I actually think the PM2 handles are super comfy. The squared edges are kind of soft and keep your fingers off of the inside corners of the scales, whereas the Shamans rounded handle lands your fingers right on the inside edges, and they're sharp. I need to take it apart and knock down the inside edges. But the contours are comfy 100%. If it wasn't so slick it would be better. I think micarta would fit this knife perfectly. But I agree it obviously is a more beefy blade with a tad bit more stoutness to the grind.
 
POCEH KOCEB said:
Honestly, I didn't know the Shaman is coming with something else other than wooden scales... I see you have lots of options, I guess all of them make good scales.
I am very pleased with the Fireside, the guy communicate very well, very responsive. I got good discount for Christmas and scales fit like a glove. Totally different feel and traction on the scales.
Good luck !
Click to expand...
Yeah they come with black g10 handles stock. They look textured in photos but it's glass smooth. Makes it hard to hold on to for sure. Thanks man! I do like those Fireside scales. Is that blue denim?
 
I don't know guys. I may keep it and use it but I don't want to get any scales for it if I'm not gonna keep it lol I could always sell but eh. Just off of initial impressions I kinda want to sell it and get another PM2 😂
 
dirc said:
get rid of both, and get a gayle bradley 2 :) that was my solution
C134CFP2.jpg
Click to expand...
I've had my eye heavily on a GB2 for a longgg time. I've heard about people having trouble getting into the lock bar to close it, and that's kept me away from it. But I don't see why a simple bit of stock removal wouldn't cure that. It's a very attractive knife though, might have to get one soon
 
POCEH KOCEB said:
Well, I have both knives, Shaman in Rex45, PM2 in Cruwear. I also have PM2 with tanto blade in M4. For comparing I'm putting also Manix 2,
a knife I'm not using because I usually use the XL size in S90V, but before I gave it away, I extensively used another Manix2 with composite, I believe cpm154/s90v blade.
I also added the Grip for size comparing. (sorry for the oily blade of the Shaman...)

2ZV7Ux.jpg


Now, From all of those knives, I use the most the Manix2, PM2 tanto M4, PM2 and less used is the Shaman because of the scales I received few wees back.
Yes, both, Shaman and PM2 have almost identical thickness of the spine of the blade but Shaman is much beefier and IMO there is much more material behind the edge.
I find both knives to be pretty functional but because of the blade geometry, Shaman is suitable for much more heavier tasks than the original PM2.
As others mentioned, PM2 original scales are squearish and not very comfortable. I fixed this by getting aftermarket scales that made whole world of difference, the knife is much
more usable for what I'm doing now.
Comparing both knives, I'd say the PM2 will handle normal use but it is more of a gentleman's knife than hard user. I don't have much experience with the Shaman but the way I hold it,
it is asking for heavier push on the blade, unfortunately I can't give it anything but cardboard boxes for now... 😂
From both of those, I like the ergos of the PM2 better but only because I replaced the scales.
I find both steels to be fine, the truth is - I didn't use those enough to have some solid opinion about the steel.
From both PM2 I used much more the tanto version in M4, I'm more familiar with the steel and blade geometry and the original shape of the handle doesn't bother me.
Originally the knife came with the "natural" scales, I replaced those with the other PM2's CF scales, they provide better grip because of different texture.
Compared those three PM2X2 and Shaman, to the Manix2, I used the most the Manix2, I find the handle ergos more suitable for my work, blade geometry is almost the same
as cutting angle to the handle, as on PM2 but the "belly" is probably more pronounced in PM2 and I like more straight edge so naturally Manix2 is my choice.
Locks, I don't have any issues with the locks, very natural for me to work with the Mnix2 after I used Grip's Axis for years, the compression locks on the other three knives
work just fine, never had issues with sticking locks or disengaging while twisting the knives but again, I did not have much chance to push those hard.
Anyway, I'm not expecting any issues with those locks, fiddle a lot with PM2 and it's pleasure to open and close with one hand, at least I don't have any issues.
From all of those knives, the PM2 is the easiest to disassemble with I think, less parts, followed by the Manix2 and the Grip, I'd put those on the same level.
I had more "trouble" (relative to the other 3 knives, otherwise not much issues) with the Shaman, I think because of tighter tolerances, I could be mistaking...
From all of the pictured knives the Griptilian have the most massive washers, all four of them does not have any lateral or vertical blade play.
I keep my blades little bit more tight at the pivot, I like them to only fall down slightly when the lock is dissengaged, I usually ride the blade to close it or open it, I don't flop, flick
or twist the wrist, its just a habit I developed, to be sure that the blade is locked, the thumb gives me positive feedback if I don't wave the knife out of the pocket.
I don't really know what else I can share, all of those are outstanding models, I have less experience with the Shaman but I like heavy front blade, my hands are usually numb and "tired" and
heavy knife/blade helps with control when I'm working.
Hope this will give the OP some information... :cool::thumbsup:
Click to expand...
That's some nniiccee scales on that Cru wear PM2. May I ask what are those / how can I find them?
 
RyanSean97 said:
Yeah they come with black g10 handles stock. They look textured in photos but it's glass smooth. Makes it hard to hold on to for sure. Thanks man! I do like those Fireside scales. Is that blue denim?
Click to expand...
Ryan, I think they are either Navy, or Blue Denim, I’ll check tomorrow and will let you know.
D dirc suggested GB2. Very nice knife, you can’t go wrong with it. I personally prefer GB 1.

g9C5Mv.jpg

To me this is much better slicer, you can get closer to the edge and handle profile is much more comfortable .
It is subjective but IMO it’s the better knife from those two models. Another thing to keep in mind - even GB1 is more like a working knife (this was the original intent for it) and GB2 to appear more as a Gents folder, they both have M4 and if you are not using the knife for work, that will make you take care of it more often, the blade tend to rust.
Nothing that steel wool and Flitz won’t fix but keep it in mind, both are not very presentable knives if you don’t maintain 8t that way…
Now, at 2016 SHOT I spoke about 20 min with Mr Bradley about the design of the knife. everything in this knife is thought and made to make your work easier.
KwAAOh.jpg


When those complains about the hard to access lock came back from the customers, Mr Bradley had his wife open and close the knife bunch of times and she had no issues with it. Yes, the lock is “hidden“ in the scales but this is by purpose and it’s not really that hard to disengage. I don‘t remember the whole conversation right now so don’t quote me on this, but I think he said that he discussed those complaints with Sal and they decided to make another model to address it, this is how we ended up with GB2. Great knife, my personal preference goes to the first model. Good luck !
 
Hey U UNBLF , of course, I use the same guy for scales 4 times already. He does excellent job, never had issues with fit or finish. He works primarily on Spydercos but only on most popular models. I also have a ZT620 with Emerson motive and Rat 1 covered by this guy. The cross is extra $20, scales usually runs about $70, everything done in few weeks,
You don’t to send him the knife.
He is a member here - suingab suingab , also Google ” g10it “ and go to his website to see available models. Hope this will help :cool::thumbsup:

pBFmFt.jpg
 
For me PM2 is close to being perfect, the Shaman is simply not to this level. I've had 6 or 7 different Spydercos, and sold or gifted 3 different models (inclusing sprint-run Military that cost me a fortune), after realizing PM2 makes them all superfluous.
 
POCEH KOCEB said:
Hey U UNBLF , of course, I use the same guy for scales 4 times already. He does excellent job, never had issues with fit or finish. He works primarily on Spydercos but only on most popular models. I also have a ZT620 with Emerson motive and Rat 1 covered by this guy. The cross is extra $20, scales usually runs about $70, everything done in few weeks,
You don’t to send him the knife.
He is a member here - suingab suingab , also Google ” g10it “ and go to his website to see available models. Hope this will help :cool::thumbsup:

pBFmFt.jpg
Click to expand...

Man. You've literally opened up a new world for me.

For long I've been purchasing only PM2s from Spyderco, mainly because all their factory scales SUCK, and only PM2 has plenty of aftermarket parts that I can choose from.

The three PM2 CF scales I'm using now run me about $120 / ea, and they're made in China. They're really really nice scales w/ great contouring and design and surface finish etc but $120 for made-in-China scales is still a bit too much.

Thank you!
 
Email suingab man, he’ll hook you up. The guy doesn’t talk much but you can email him your specs for material and design and he’ll tell you what he can do. If you don’t know the name of some material you like, just cut the picture and paste it, he’ll know what you want.
I’m glad I can help, hope you find what you need with this guy :cool::thumbsup:
 
OP, I generally agree with your sentiment. I think a Shaman "XL" would be more interesting, but in the current state, the PM2 works better for me. I thought I would like the contoured scales, but the PM2 feels better in my hand.
 
MBG said:
OP, I generally agree with your sentiment. I think a Shaman "XL" would be more interesting, but in the current state, the PM2 works better for me. I thought I would like the contoured scales, but the PM2 feels better in my hand.
Click to expand...
The PM2 won for me, and I find the grip much more comfortable. I sold the Shaman 😂
 
I've had the PM2 for years, and honestly have never really loved it as much as I thought I would. I like it well enough, but it's not the most comfortable in the hand to me and it's kind of a pocket hog for its blade size. Recently I got the itch for the shaman thanks to multiple posts from this forum, and I finally bought one. I am still in the honeymoon phase with it, but I like it more than the PM2 already. I was worried about hating it because of its size and weight. I carry my knife as well as my wallet in my front right pants pocket, and the PM 2 always made it hard to get the wallet out. I am truly surprised how much better the bigger Shaman rides in the pocket. I think part of it has to do with the slick scales that come with it. It's easier to me to slide my hand past it in the pocket and get what I need. The feel in hand is the most comfortable of any folder I own, it's a joy to use!
 
SETXBobcat said:
I've had the PM2 for years, and honestly have never really loved it as much as I thought I would. I like it well enough, but it's not the most comfortable in the hand to me and it's kind of a pocket hog for its blade size. Recently I got the itch for the shaman thanks to multiple posts from this forum, and I finally bought one. I am still in the honeymoon phase with it, but I like it more than the PM2 already. I was worried about hating it because of its size and weight. I carry my knife as well as my wallet in my front right pants pocket, and the PM 2 always made it hard to get the wallet out. I am truly surprised how much better the bigger Shaman rides in the pocket. I think part of it has to do with the slick scales that come with it. It's easier to me to slide my hand past it in the pocket and get what I need. The feel in hand is the most comfortable of any folder I own, it's a joy to use!
Click to expand...
I love them both for different reasons honestly. I got a Shaman and sold it because the detent was crazy stiff, but I think it was just a matter of break in. I got another one recently and it's running very very well, super smooth, so I think I'm going to keep it.

The PM2 lived up to all the hype when I finally got my first one, a little before the Shaman actually. It's extremely smooth and easy to flick, and I actually love how it feels in the hand. Ergos, handle texture, weight, it all works for me. I do think it's long in the handle compared to the blade but I got over that faster than I thought.

Probably my only gripe with the Shaman is the slickness of the scales. But that can be fixed with some new ones which is what I'm going to do. Overall my opinion on the Shaman has definitely changed for the better. The PM2 is a winner for me as well.
 
Shaman any day for me. Much sturdier and heavier than the PM2, suit more my EDC needs.
PM2 is a nice fidget toy tho, it's a pretty boy for sure
 
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