Sage 1 or 3??? Help!

d.2.the.p

d.2.the.p

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I know that this has been discussed in previous posts, but I have different inputs that will be going into the decision process. I am going to acquire either a Sage 1 or 3. I know that most people lean towards the Sage 1, but hear me out. First of all, even though it is GORGEOUS, I am not considering the Sage 2. I was given a sweaty pair of hands, and I put my knives to good use, so I need something with at least some texture to feel comfortable. So here's what's spinning around in my head:

Sage 1
-I love the textured CF. I have a Chaparral and enjoy it thoroughly.
-It's beautiful, classy, and just looks cool.
-Widely acclaimed as one of the best Spydercos ever from what I've seen in forums and other reviews.
-Open design easy for cleaning.
-I only have one other liner lock knife.

Sage 3
-Again, I have a Chaparral, and since the Chaparral is more or less a mid lock little brother to the Sage 1, I may want something different.
-The blue G-10 is freaking awesome. Not only that, but it would most likely be more NKP-friendly.
-I had been considering a Manix 2 for some time, but never pulled the trigger because it's just too big for the laws in Washington DC (3" blade) as well as my personal EDC preferences. The Sage 3 is strikingly similar in a lot of ways but it is more my size of knife - I like small to mid-sized knives.
-I have no bolt action locks or anything even similar.
-It seems to be built tougher (i.e. for harder use) due to the lock, full back spacer, handle material, etc.

Thoughts??? Any other factors to consider?
 
Sage 3 alot tougher imo, sage 1 is all beauty...dont get me wrong i'm sure it is down for some hard use but sage 3 wins that battle
 
From everything I've heard, it looks like I may own both at some point in the future. I'm just looking for some advice from people who have owned one or both as to where I should start.
 
I've EDC d a Sage 1 for about a year now. Very tough and durable.
Spyderco Sage 1.jpg
 
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I just got a Sage 1 and it hasn't left my pocket for 2 weeks now. I've handled the Sage 3 and if you're going to use it hard go for the Sage 3, better bigger grip and feels more durable so you're less likely to baby it. The Sage 1 is so nice it has actually confused me about what knife to get next as I can't actually find a reason to buy another one! I don't think you'll go wrong with either of them. One thing I've noticed from other G10 knives is that it's super grippy so if you are constantly pulling it out and into your pocket it might catch a lot. The CF on the Sage 1 has just enough grip for your hand but won't grab your pants.
 
You've done an excellent job of covering the good points of both. While you couldn't really go wrong with either, in your situation, give what you wrote, I'd suggest the Sage 3.
 
d.2.the.p said:
Maybe I should just get both and see which one I like better... :D
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I agree! I don't know if it matters to you but the Sage 3 seems to be a little heavier than the Sage 1. The "grippiest" to me is the Sage 3 but it does tend to show dirt more than the Sage 1. I love all three of them, my favorite is the Sage 2 but I've never had problems with the grip.
 
I ended up going with the Sage 1. I'm still looking hard at the Sage 3, though. That blue is just too awesome.

But after checking out some pics that compare the Sage to the Manix 2, the M2 doesn't seem all that huge at all. Given, I wouldn't be able to EDC it when I'm in DC, but I actually live outside the city in VA, so blade length isn't really an issue from a legal perspective if I wasn't heading into the city.

UGH!!! Now I have to decide between the Sage 3 and Manix 2 CTS-BD30P FFG Sprint... CURSE YOU SPYDERCO!!! ;)
 
For the Sage 1 folks, any luck on the Sharpmaker? I just ordered a Para 2 and a Sharpmaker. My Sage 1 is dulled down and I had no luck with pull-through kitchen sharpener.
 
Get both.

350.jpg
 
I have the Sage 1 and the sprint run Manix 2. They are both great knives but in different categories. The Manix 2 is bigger, bulkier and just feels solid. The sage is very tough but lighter smaller and more of a gentlemen folder.
 
dmourati said:
For the Sage 1 folks, any luck on the Sharpmaker? I just ordered a Para 2 and a Sharpmaker. My Sage 1 is dulled down and I had no luck with pull-through kitchen sharpener.
Click to expand...

My Sage 1 and 2 worked great on the Sharpmaker at 40° inclusive. I had to slightly rebevel the Sage 3. It seemed to be off just a little. I could have just used stones but the Sharpmaker is my field sharpener. (Keep it in my truck or duffel bag when traveling.)
 
the sage 3 has an uber smooth opening... absolute joy to open!!
If you haven't already done so, try to get your hands on each and feel the texture and opening.. with both having strong points, maybe the feel in your hands would seal the deal for one of these magnificent knives.

Better yet, get both:thumbup:
 
All great knives. If you have any thoughts about more than one Sage then start at the beginning. The CF on the 1 is gorgeous and and it's extremely rare to hear anything but praise.
 
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