Regarding the MOD CQD Mark II...

Joined
Jul 26, 2007
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100
I have done a fair amount of research on this knife and think it's the one I'm going to go with. I read a lot of the threads here in the archives and some people love theirs, others hate theirs. Same goes for quality - some say it's great, others say so and so is better. However, that is also just the nature of a forum environment.

I found the knife for $164.99 though elite tactical specialists, which is a pretty amazing price. I am also considering the Benchmade 523 Presidio, and the Benchmade/HK 14250. The latter two knives go for about $120, so there is a slight price difference.

One thing I am wondering about in regards to the Mark II is how thick the handle is, and also if the blade is sharpened on both sides (I thought I read that somewhere, although it doesn't look like it in the pictures. Also, how comfortable is it to carry every day? It seems like it will stick out of the pocket a bit because of the clip placement.

I have tried to find a Microtech Mini Socom Elite M/A, but I haven't found anyone that sells that knife. Is it discontinued?

I got my hands on the HK34 and I really like the feel of it, however it is a bit thick when in the pocket (0.61"). I haven't had a chance to handle the 523, but it is listed at 0.66" handle width.

I've also played with the SOG Flash II, but it didn't feel that sturdy. I like the assited opening, but I don't think it's in the same class as the other knives I've listed.

Any input is appreciated... Thanks.
 
I have done a fair amount of research on this knife and think it's the one I'm going to go with. I read a lot of the threads here in the archives and some people love theirs, others hate theirs. Same goes for quality - some say it's great, others say so and so is better. However, that is also just the nature of a forum environment.

I found the knife for $164.99 though elite tactical specialists, which is a pretty amazing price. I am also considering the Benchmade 523 Presidio, and the Benchmade/HK 14250. The latter two knives go for about $120, so there is a slight price difference.

One thing I am wondering about in regards to the Mark II is how thick the handle is, and also if the blade is sharpened on both sides (I thought I read that somewhere, although it doesn't look like it in the pictures. Also, how comfortable is it to carry every day? It seems like it will stick out of the pocket a bit because of the clip placement.

I have tried to find a Microtech Mini Socom Elite M/A, but I haven't found anyone that sells that knife. Is it discontinued?

I got my hands on the HK34 and I really like the feel of it, however it is a bit thick when in the pocket (0.61"). I haven't had a chance to handle the 523, but it is listed at 0.66" handle width.

I've also played with the SOG Flash II, but it didn't feel that sturdy. I like the assited opening, but I don't think it's in the same class as the other knives I've listed.

Any input is appreciated... Thanks.

1/2" thick
Sharpened only on one side, but it is possible to sharpen false edge - it is covered by handle when it is closed.

I consider MOD Mark II higher in class then any BM I know about.

It is very well designed for hand-manipulation, where handle ergo is more important then anything else, and I do not know any other folder with better handle or even close to MOD MarkII. Only this bumps on guard area make a huge difference, but it has more other features.

Thanks, Vassili.
 
I have the bigger brother, which has a very similar handle. The CQD handle is the most secure, most adaptable handle I have ever held. The lock is SOLID. The secondary safety is totally unnecessary, I think, but the confidence it gives you when working on tough cutting jobs, wearing gloves, when you have to shift your grip often... That peace of mind is just priceless. It's about as good as a fixed blade. The lock is probably stronger than the blade itself. And the cryo processed 154CM is pretty damn good blade steel.
 
1/2" thick
Sharpened only on one side, but it is possible to sharpen false edge - it is covered by handle when it is closed.

Vassili,

Would you mind taking some pictures of the knife for me? I have been unable to find good shots of all angles/sides of the knife. I think that would be very helpful.

Thanks.
 
Thanks, I was hoping for some of the back of it, and the width though. Would you mind snapping a few pictures of yours?

Also, how does the CQD Mark II compare to the Keating Hornet?
 
I had an auto for a short period of time. I really liked it, but felt the handle was a little thick. Also, it does not lend itself to discrete carry, due to the high clip placement. I liked the lock and the quality.

GregB
 
I had an auto for a short period of time. I really liked it, but felt the handle was a little thick. Also, it does not lend itself to discrete carry, due to the high clip placement. I liked the lock and the quality.

GregB


That's what I am worried about... all the pictures I have seen show it with a clip that is towards the middle.

I'm also not sure about all the writing on the blade. I have seen some that just say "CQD Mark II" but others have a bunch more crap written on it. ;)
 
Look at the Benchmade 14205. It is the same knife as the 14200 series, with a g-10 handle, so it is a little thinner in the pocket. I just got mine and I truely believe it is a gem few people seem to know about. Just my thoughts
 
Look at the Benchmade 14205. It is the same knife as the 14200 series, with a g-10 handle, so it is a little thinner in the pocket. I just got mine and I truely believe it is a gem few people seem to know about. Just my thoughts

According to the HK/Benchmade catalog, there is .12" difference in the handle width, which I'd assume is because the 14205 doesn't have the rubber overmold which adds to the width. For some reason I just can't warm up to G10 handles compared to aluminum.
 
I have a Microtech Socom Elite Auto and you can't tell its in the pocket, very slim yet strong knife. It was my EDC, unfortunately since I got the HK, my Microtech will be a shelf queen till I trade it or sell it.
 
I'd like a Microtech mini Socom, but don't want to run the risk of carrying an automatic knife, since it's illegal for me.

I'm ready to buy the MOD Mark II on Monday, but I can't find a local store that carries one so I can handle it beforehand. I'm mainly worried about how much it will stick up out of my pocket since the clip isn't near the top. I'd rather be discrete...
 
I have mark2, but I dont like how it cuts. its cutting edge is too thick.
after violent strikes i found a vertical blade play. through the 1/2 year, after serious loads on knife, a safety device stop work and lock doesn't work too. but after strong tap all stood at their seats and even blade play disappeared. why is it all happened, I do not know.
 
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