I got a T1, in carbon fiber (my first and only carbon fiber knife, strange stuff: reminds me to the 3D picture toys you used to get in cereal boxes, tilt them slightly and the pic would move and change), off the net from one of the big 3 for about $100.
Always wanted a Harsey designed knife. His design work appeals to me. Like the rugged appearance and tough lines. Nothing timid. Bold.
It is small. Opens and closes smoothly. The lockup is solid. It is a linerlock. Very sharp out of the box. Kind of thick, not unlike my G-10 textured Leek, but not too thick to fit in my leather Mission Wallet. The scales are smooth except for roughness around the screw holes. You get your good grip from the jimping in the metal parts all your fingers touch with the exception of the middle finger, which wraps around the knife to rest on the face of the smooth carbon fiber.
It isn't jewelry. It doesn't look like jewelry. It is rougher than jewelry.
Compared to the Griptilian: The T1 has the old standby linerlock while the Grip has the celebrated, for good reason, new Axis lock. I have a Ritter Grip and I have no complaints. The linerlock is simpler. You can see all of it. Much of the Axis lock is hidden.
Compared to the Endura 4: The T1 is smaller. It is a small knife. Be ready for its small size. If you really want a full sized knife then get the T3 with micarta handle for about $225 online. I handled one today at the Portland Expo show and it is a worthy piece of kit. Fit nicely in my pocket with the clip. Lighter than it looks. Re the Endura 4: I don't have one, believe my Military obviates the need for an Endura 4, but like them. It has a lockback so little risk in this lock design.
I really want the T3. I know, overkill. But what can you do. I am a slave to this blade blindness bugaboo. The Cocobolo T2 is stunning in person.
You should handle all three, if you can. A knife show is a good place for comparison shopping.
I would handle, before you buy, the Lone Wolf to insure that it won't have to go back to the factory or the manufacturer. Knives should be fun and not the subject of hard feelings or disappointment. One of the big 3 online dealers has decided to disco LW knives as their stock runs out. There is a reason for this.
Best,
oregon
