Production Framelocks users, do you like them?

Walking Man · Aug 12, 2005

I've had a Dominator for at least a year now, and although I haven't used it hard, I think it's all the knife anyone would ever need. IMO, I find it more comfortable to hold than a sebenza, and I really just like the design more. It's more comfortable for me to hold, and it's as tough as I'm ever going to need a knife. I'm not going to compare finish and overall quality, I just want to know your preference. I've sold every sebenza that I've owned, and I also traded my Buck Mayo (I think for this dominator). I actually liked it quite bit, but not enough to keep it. Also, I handled a Strider PT in the pass around.
So, my question goes to all of you users of production framelocks, (especially the higher end ones, dominator, buck mayo, skirmish, bump, etc.)
Do these knives have more value than the small shop framelocks for you? (esp. striders and sebbies). I'm not asking for a flamewar, only you're preference.
Thanks.

T.K.C. · Aug 12, 2005

I personally LOVE framelocks!! I own several: Striders (SNG,AR, PT) and I have a Kershaw/ Ken Onion Bump (schweeeet knife, by the way.)and a Buck/Mayo TNT, that is simply AWESOME!. I had a Sebenza, but traded it for a Strider. Framelocks are my favorite!!!

logo · Aug 13, 2005

Is a Pinnacle a "higher end one"?

I use two, and love them due to their great ergos (I don't like Sebenza, or Dominator for example) and despite of relatively fast frame wearing out in one of them. But that wearing out influences not a safe lockup.

Walking Man · Aug 13, 2005

logo said:
Is a Pinnacle a "higher end one"?

I use two, and love them due to their great ergos (I don't like Sebenza, or Dominator for example) and despite of relatively fast frame wearing out in one of them. But that wearing out influences not a safe lockup.

1)YES. I consider a high end production, it's prices was no less than the Buck Mayo when it was released.
2) Also, I agree with you this being a good knife, at least in theory. IMO it has a great finish, much more scratch resistant than the Sebbie.

USAFSP · Aug 13, 2005

No flaming here, but I thought a Sebenza was a production knife? I own 2 and love them. Won't trade/sell them for anything. Framelocks are the best IMHO. Doesn't matter if they are the Dominator or a Sebbie. Both great designs.

Walking Man · Aug 13, 2005

USAFSP said:
No flaming here, but I thought a Sebenza was a production knife? I own 2 and love them. Won't trade/sell them for anything. Framelocks are the best IMHO. Doesn't matter if they are the Dominator or a Sebbie. Both great designs.

Sebenza and Strider and WHs fit more under the semi-custom category, because, from what I understand, they are hand finished.
Now having said that, which is your favorite and why. for me the dominator is the best because of it's ergonomics, lock up and toughness. Also, the swedge is a free option.

Saberman · Aug 14, 2005

After getting a BM Pinnacle years ago, I've been sold on Framelocks sense. I've got afew now BM630, BM635 (in the mail), Pinnacle, Strider PT, sm Sebbie, and a Umfaan. I've had a Buck/Mayo and SnG. All great users ( and I do use them).

As to your question:
Do these knives have more value than the small shop framelocks for you? (esp. striders and sebbies)?

No, I worry more about the performance, being cheapier only means I saved money for something else.

Like another knife.

Walking Man · Aug 15, 2005

Saberman said:
No, I worry more about the performance, being cheapier only means I saved money for something else. Like another knife.

As do I. But some would say that a BM Skirmish is just as good, but a better value for them, because it's cheaper. For me, the Dominator is also better at any price. Let's keep those opinions coming, and say what you think is better, because of, or regardless of price.

Saberman · Aug 15, 2005

I think the value of production knives is in thier ablilty to offer many different blade shapes, grinds, blade steels, handle shapes and materials, and locks at a affordable price. Giving the buyer the ablilty to find the best knife for thier uses. So having the ability to narrow my choices down by choices by picking a framelock, and still having choices is good for me.

French Kiss · Aug 16, 2005

I don't own any semi-custom framelock, but I have a Kershaw Bump that suits my needs perfectly (even if it's not particularly discrete to carry, but I like it for that too

) with an extra on the overall quality of the materials, fit and finish.