review request DR EDC

shootist16

shootist16

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After handling the Camillus version I want to get a custom one. Are they the same size as the Camillus or bigger? I generally like bigger knives, but the Camillus felt pretty good. Anyone care to comment on the EDC? I am sure fit and finish are second to none since DR makes them. Also waht do you think about frame lock versus liner lock on these?

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Dennis Bible

....Almost here, The Leading Edge....
http://www.theleadingedgeonline.com
 
I recently picked up an EDC in a trade and I am completely satisfied with this knife. Mine is a skeletonized carbon fiber model with anodized stainless steel liners. The liners for the EDC are so thick that they act almost like an integral lock. The knife is probably as strong as a Sebenza. The handle is quite comfortable, Shootist, I know that you love the Wegner, and the EDC has pretty similar feel. It is only a little smaller. The blade has a modest recurve and seems to be designed more for heavy duty work instead of fine slicing. The size of the EDC is larger thatn the Camillus version. This knife is on the large side of medium with an OAL just under 8" and a blade just a shade under 3.5". New these run arounf $450 in the basic version. if you like customs, this blade is definitely worth it.
 
DR's EDC is on my lust list.

My preference for what it's worth, is the cf liner lock model. No judgement as to which is better here, simply my preference for stainless liner locks and full length cf scales.

Durable handle materials which provide easy maintenance (mainly washing because my hands sweat) and are resistent to impact, marring, and exposure to cleaning and lubricating solutions are becoming more important to me.

Just my .02 cents.

Ron
 
shootist, DDR now makes a 4 inch version also.

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Rs
Don
Medicine Man of the Extinct Fugowee Tribe
 
You can have faith in DDR and his work. I have never met him in person but know a few folks that have. These are good people and good makers who think the world of him. From my e mails with him and owning his knives I would back the man anywhere anytime.
 
The EDC is my all time favorite folder. Fit and finish are excellant. The handle is very ergonomic. The handle design is such that it puts the edge in almost perfect position in any grip and for most cutting tasks. I personally prefer Darrel's flush fit liner lock. Nothing sticks out to accidentilly get disengaged. It is surpisingly easy to unlock when you need to. The Frame lock version feels like a a fixed blade when open. No blade play what so ever. I have a frame lock that Darrel Put CF scales on, not the overlays. This is a great work knife. It fills the hand giving you even better grip.

It seems I ordered the 1st 4" EDC. I didn't know Darrel had plans for this at the time. When I first heard he was going to start making them, I thought it was because of me. Oh well, at least I get the #1. Well, maybe. I made a couple of changes at the last minute, so that may move my knife back in the order a bit.

Get a DDR EDC. You will be very pleased. If you end up not liking it, let me know, I'll take it off your hands.
biggrin.gif


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If ignorance is bliss,
why aren't more people happy?
 
I also have a CF EDC (solid scales, tip-up carry, 420V).
This is the most comfortable folder I have ever held. Great looking knife, solid lock-up, very ergonomic, but the main attraction for me is the blade.
The very high grind, coupled with the recurve, makes for a knife that both push-cuts and slices very well. Push cuts like a flat ground Spyderco, and far outslices either my Emerson Commander or BM 710HS (I said far). This was my first custom, so I can only compare it to factory knives. Needless to say, nothing I've owned comes close.
The blade/handle ratio is especially impressive to me. To put it in perspective, the handle is about the same overall size as the BM 940's (EDC handle is 1/8" longer) with a Commander-sized blade. Wow.
The clip is attractive, and very secure, too.
By far the most money I'd ever paid for a knife, and I think it was a bargain.
Darrel is also a pleasure to work with. Very straightforward and helpful.
Between the knife and the maker, it's quite a package.

 
Dennis,

I got one of Darrel's custom EDCs a few months ago (anodized frame-lock). This weekend I got to play with the Camillus EDC at the Oregon knife show. I found the finish of the Camillus to be much more satisfactory than the custom EDC. I personally did not care for Darrel's "suregrip" finish and much more prefer satin finish of the Camillus.

Size wise Darrel's knife is much bigger - 3.5" blade length versus about 3" on the Camillus.

You could buy 8 of the Camillus version or 1 custom. If you really need that extra 0.5" blade length, got with the DR custom. If you want a good knife with great finish go with the Camillus.

~Mitch

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My Hobby Page
 
Mitch
The sure grip finish was an idea that I had to make a better grip on the knife.
You changed my mind on that and the lock tension. So all the knives are satin finished now with ceramic peened completion unless otherwise asked for. There completely soft rounded before peening . All the blade tops are rounded.

Also the lock tention for some folks is an issue. Some like um hard some like um soft. I feel I have found a semi happy medium now.

I just ask! Hard or soft lock?

Mitch, thanks for the help.

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Web Site At www.darrelralph.com
MADD MAXX !

[This message has been edited by Darrel Ralph (edited 04-23-2001).]
 
Darrel,
You have mail on the large edc. I just ordered a large EDC, 4" blade, with black micarta overlays. Now the wait begins! At least now I have a reason to live for a few more months!

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Art Sigmon
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me"
Php. 4:13

"For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword"
Heb. 4:12
 
Dennis,

I've owned both the CF and Ti EDCs and greatly prefer the look and feel of the slotted CF version with SS liners. These things are very tough and fit my hand perfectly. Darrel is great to deal with to boot.

I prefer the size and feel of the custom, but the 154CM Camillus version is on my want list. I think it would make a great airport knife.

Chris
 
Darrel,

Camillus has done an EXCELLENT job with your EDC. I like the fact that it is smaller, not just a carbon copy of your full blown custom. I was rather dissapointed when I put my custom Crawford KFF next to the CRKT KFF...dimensions and shape were exact.

I'm sure no one would disagree the Camillus EDC is probably one of the best values around. Of course if you want the real deal you gotta talk to the man himself.

~Mitch

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My Hobby Page
 
Mitch,

Yes Camillus did a fantastic job on the EDC.
I will be making a smaller version later on this year that is close to the same size.

It will be Ti frame ot CF frame with other options
wink.gif


The EDC is a great value.

The fit and finish are great . I like the size also. I carry mine and dont even know its in my pocket.

Thanks Mitch..

BTW
All of the upgrades to the EDC line were from you on the customs.


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Web Site At www.darrelralph.com
MADD MAXX !
 
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