Question about XM-18. "To flip or not to flip?"

R

rookie4real

Joined
Aug 15, 2007
Messages
546
Since I put my name down on the wait list for a Gen3 XM-18 flipper, I wondered about the difference between flipper and non flipper models. Besides flipping trigger/guard, does flipper have some sort of bearing system built in the pivot, like some other flippers, or it is just teflon washers like in a non flipper model? Can you still open a flipper using thumbstuds as you would a non-flipper, and if so would it be the same action/feel?
 
I don't think there's a ball bearing system in the pivot. As far as I know, there's no difference in the knives whatsoever other than the flipper/non-flipper feature. I have the flipper version and it opens fine with the thumbstuds. I don't think the flipper is absolutely necessary, but I like it with the flipper.
 
I have had flipper & non-flipper XM-18's. I prefer the non flipper variety.
 
I like my flipper. It gives my finger something to rest against...
xm3.jpg

xm4.jpg
 
I really liked the flipper on my XM-18, until I had an RJ Martin Q-36, a DDR with his SAO, and a Begg with IKBS. I am spoiled by excellent flippers. Rick makes a good flipper, just not an excellent flipper.
 
I don't like how flippers feel in the pocket and avoid them entirely because of that. It's a complete deal breaker for me. Really subdued flippers like the Kershaw Leek are fine, but pronounced ones are a liability.
 
Black Bear Knives makes a Flipper that is just right. Check them out.
 
No flipper, Rick's takes a little hand motion to fully lock her up. Also it gets in the way when you are cutting. (It did for me)
 
J85909266 said:
I don't like how flippers feel in the pocket and avoid them entirely because of that. It's a complete deal breaker for me. Really subdued flippers like the Kershaw Leek are fine, but pronounced ones are a liability.
Click to expand...

So-Lo said:
No flipper, Rick's takes a little hand motion to fully lock her up. Also it gets in the way when you are cutting. (It did for me)
Click to expand...


That and the fact that I plan on getting some DDR and RJ Martins knives in the future, make me think that I've made a not so good decision, I will probably call tommorow and change my preorder it to a non-flipper.
 
I think you made a good choice to switch to the non-flipper. While I like the flipper design I don't like how it's done on the Hinderer, it's just a bit "much".
 
Some XM pron... I do not own either one anymore. But it's a fun picture anyway :D

IMG_6978.jpg
 
i participated in a flipper passaround a couple years ago. i appreciated the designs, but only had it a few days before sending it off to the next recipient.

irony: i dont generally like flippers or stonewashed blades. also dont tend to like "complicated" grinds or sabre grinds. i normally like a simple full height flat grind.

very recently bought an xm18 flipper. had a good opportunity, at a price i was comfortable with. so even though it is a flipper w/stonewash, i pulled the trigger.

i love the flipper! snaps open quickly and easily. i can live with the stonewash and grind, since it is so darn sharp. when open the flipper acts as a guard, while still allowing one to grip up using the choil.

the detent is very strong, and opening mine with the stud/stop pin is not easy, but doable.

ive "flipped" my opinions on all my biases previously mentioned, at least with this piece.
 
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