Recommendation? Searching for a new edc.

I do really like that recon 1. I'd probably get it if it was axis, liner, frame or button lock. I just don't always have the ability to use 2 hands to shut my knife if I'm holding something up or climbing.
Cold Steel’s Triad locks are solid but not really that hard to close one handed…
I can close all of my CS knives that way, shouldn’t be a problem as many also mentioned it.
CS are solid performers, you’ll be happy with any of them in your price range or with any of the more expensive Spyderco models for that matter, all good knives.
I think CS is slightly stronger built than Spyderco, but Spyderco lock operates very similar to the Axis you’re used to and maybe your transition will be easier to a Manix 2 or something with such lock…
 
I recently got two Civivi Cogents with 14C28N and button locks at $70 each. Push the button, they drop open or closed. They also have a flipper tab that is better than most. The handle size is about midway between a full-size Griptilian and a Bugout, which I think is ideal. They are sharp out of the box, but you might want to strop them a bit. There are some nice colors, which is one reason that I got a second one in case my wife takes possession of one.
 
Last edited:
I've had a victorinix before but I'd mostly but using this knife at work wearing a tool belt with the actual tools I need. They are good in a pinch but I'd rather have the full size tool for torque and purchase reasons.
What about their Hunter pro? One handed, lock back, available in alox, and within your budget...
 
I'm interested in what the OP decided. That's a pretty big market segment, lots of good choices...
 
Civivi Coegent. 14c28n and a great knife under your budget.
 
I'm interested in what the OP decided. That's a pretty big market segment, lots of good choices.
I went with the crkt bt fighter and the ruike p108. Both in 14c28n. I've been carrying the BT mostly but that's just because I like how the handle feels.
 
I used to like contoured scales on folders, but have found, over time, that flat works better for me. Most of the time, I cut stuff with my fixed blade, the folder is for lighter jobs, single cuts, opening mail, and loaning out. YMMV
Mostly, I'm glad you got something decent, quickly, instead of wringing your hands and agonizing over the decision for weeks, like some here seem to do! :)
 
I used to like contoured scales on folders, but have found, over time, that flat works better for me. Most of the time, I cut stuff with my fixed blade, the folder is for lighter jobs, single cuts, opening mail, and loaning out. YMMV
Mostly, I'm glad you got something decent, quickly, instead of wringing your hands and agonizing over the decision for weeks, like some here seem to do! :)
I haven't really ran into a situation that I would need a heavy duty fixed blade at work. I suspect I might reach for the sawzall if I did lol.
 
The Barrage has always been my favorite EDC. The grip thicker secures it in my hand best. I moved away from it for a couple years and now I'm going back to it...

I'll be trying out the carbon fiber handle... I hope it's not slippery... and it doesn't have the texture like the G10 handle. I'm afraid I'll end up getting the G10s... and probably the mini Barrage once I figure out the handle material.
 
I haven't really ran into a situation that I would need a heavy duty fixed blade at work. I suspect I might reach for the sawzall if I did lol.
The right tool for the job! I don't need a heavy duty knife every day, either, and I prefer a thin fixed blade for general purpose use.
If the day might call for something a bit beefier, I've got that covered as well.
 
If your on a budget and trying to save some coin then the Praxis from Civivi is amazing. Not only is it possibly my fav but it’s $40
 
I also make them from LC200N, which is my favorite steel, completely rust proof, better edge holding than AEB-L, almost on par with s30V, and also nearly as tough as AEB-L. A real win of a steel composition. And I like both much more than s30V.

OT, but really nice to get some insight from a maker on LC200N. Thank you for the good info!

Been reading some complaints on edge holding, from unverified users/use, but I put your experience way above those random posts(the problem with internet..).

Been happy with Spydecos LC200N myself, probably not as good a heat treat as you do, but no complaints. :)
 
I have JTknives JTknives heat treat my LC200N to its max attainable hardness of 60 RC.
 
I am big fan of Kizer S35vn titanium frame lock knives. In some ways they all seem the same, but with different styles. However the steel and frame lock are all very similar. Keep on the lookout for ones when they go on clearance.
the Kizer vanguard knives are Ok, but you get what you pay for.

Edit: I see you went with 14cr28mov. That will serve you well, and if you loose it, it won't be so traumatic. I have a week Shades I carry when I want a knife I can abuse or give away. Yours are better than the Shrade for EDC.
 
Last edited:
I am big fan of Kizer S35vn titanium frame lock knives. In some ways they all seem the same, but with different styles. However the steel and frame lock are all very similar. Keep on the lookout for ones when they go on clearance.
the Kizer vanguard knives are Ok, but you get what you pay for.

Edit: I see you went with 14cr28mov. That will serve you well, and if you loose it, it won't be so traumatic. I have a week Shades I carry when I want a knife I can abuse or give away. Yours are better than the Shrade for EDC.
Yes I looked through several knife steel comparison the only mid range that seemed ok for me was d2 or a2. Only not enough to excuse the price increase. I will continue researching the high end and premium so that when I'm ready to drop some real money I'll know I'm getting what I want.
 
Back
Top