Searching for an outstanding EDC for long-term carry

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ShooterMcgavin

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Jan 20, 2008
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I am searching for an amazing EDC that will be capable of everyday tasks and possibly some hard use as well. I am not looking for a dress knife, but a bit of style would be nice. Function is still the top priority - fit and finish are very high on my list too. This will be a gift (from someone else to me) and I want to pick something that will stay with me for a very long time.

blade length: 3" to 3.5" (mostly for legal BS)
lock: prefer frame lock, back lock, axis, and others (no liner locks for my EDC)
weight: 4.5 oz or less
pocket clip: yes, tip up
fit and finish: must be top-notch for a high-end folder
price: let's try to stay under $1,500

....My thoughts on some options so far:
-SFC C-1: Very much like what I want. The handle is a little busy, but not bad. Unknown fit and finish has me questioning it. Input from others?
-Brian Fellhoelter Kink: Very interesting. Again, I know nothing of the fit and finish or feel of this knife. Looks a little utilitarian.
-Hinderer XM-18 3.5": Too thick for EDC in pocket.
-Hinderer XM-18 3": I like it, but how thick is it? Might be tough to find?
-Strider SNG (maybe Duane Dwyer): Haven't heard good reviews of fit and finish. Styling and blade thickness seem a bit combat-oriented for EDC.
-Scott Cook Lochsa: Love it! ...but it only comes in 3.6".
-Large Sebenza, Umnumzaan: 3.6", but I do like the fit and finish
-Tom Mayo TNT: Not bad, but not crazy about Bowie blades.
-Small Sebenza: I should hold one, but I have the impression that the handle is a little smaller and less comfortable than I want.

Help me find something. No rush; I can take my time. What is out there for customs and high-end production knives that will really impress me?
 
The knives listed are all pretty much the same flavor. I've owned every knife on that list except the first two several times. I still own the Hinderers but wouldn't read too much into that beyond that they are excellent knives and meet my needs. Based on what you describe, I'd look for a TNT with a blade shape you like. That's a keeper. Personally, if I were looking for a "forever" knife then it would probably be something more along the lines of a great lockback (maybe Halfrich). You have a lot of options at that price range. Not sure what the "no liner lock" rule is about as many custom makers make liner locks that are nearly as beefy and certainly as trustworthy as framelocks. Carson, Terzoula, etc, come to mind. You are in Boguszewski territory too, if you like flippers. Just my .02
 
I would say a Spyderco Delica or Benchmade Grip. I think what you are looking for is a showpiece to show off. From my experience the more you play for a knife the less likely you are to use it. I had friends in the military who bought high end knives but refused to use them because it would mess the blade up. In the end it's up to you good hunting.
 
I know it's way below your price cap but have you thought about the Spyderco Caly3CF? It's a superb knife though not for everyone.
I would say Sage1 because the CF is just so sweet and the Ergonomics are the best I've felt for a 3" knife but you don't want to consider a liner lock. The Sage2 is a frame lock though so it may be worth your consideration.
I consider all three of these "keepers" but then again, I couldn't stand the thought of loosing a $300+ knife.
Have fun deciding!
 
How about an Andrew Demko Custom Lawman built the way you want it. If you can wait a few months. I am counting down the months on my that should be done in FEB. From what I have heard it is the toughest folder you can buy. Also you might want to look at the ZT 551 that is shipping this week if you can find one or wait a little while and the ZT 550 will be out. GOOD LUCK! Kevin :thumbup:
 
Isn't an EDC (Every Day Carry) knife by definition a long-term carry knife? just sayin'...:confused:
 
If you want long-lasting with top notch fit and finish, I'd say go with the Small Sebenza 21. If you are concerned with the grip comfort, I suggest one with a wood inlay.
 
Georgia Guy said:
I would say a Spyderco Delica or Benchmade Grip. I think what you are looking for is a showpiece to show off. From my experience the more you play for a knife the less likely you are to use it. I had friends in the military who bought high end knives but refused to use them because it would mess the blade up. In the end it's up to you good hunting.
Click to expand...

+1

Either of those knives are great. I do prefer the mini grip though. fits in my pocket better.

then take the left over money and buy more knives :)
 
Personally, I'd say the Umnum or a lg. Seb (I prefer the regular model to the Classic/21). Based on your wants, I'd think the small Seb is too small. The Seb/Umnum have very good F&F, are replaceable if something happens to them, & carry very well in the pocket.

However, all of the others mentioned are excellent choices, too. I don't know if it's of interest to you, but if a flipper's of interest, then I'd suggest Tim Galyean's Pro Series, a DDR, or maybe a R.J. Martin design.

If $1,500 is truly your upper limit & you will actually use a pricey folder, then I'd suggest the Scott Cook Lochsa.
 
was about to start recommending some spydies and such, then saw your $1500 limit....

Sorry, can't help you with that level of knives, haha. Good luck, though.
 
For that money I would look at a Bob Terzoula folder. Check www.knifeart.com to see the different models, they usually have a good selection of Terzoula's work. Check with Les Robertson at www.robertsoncustomcutlery.com as Les usually has several models on hand or can get them. A nice wood inlaid Sebenza would be nice. Either the inlaid model 21's, or the LE woody's for each year. The woods are stabilized and hold up well and also give the knife a little more thickness, not a lot, but enough to really feel good in the hand.
 
The TNT is not a bowie blade the Buck Waimea is, the TNT is larger and has a drop point, by the way might I add I own one and it is the single best production folder I have ever handled, period.

Are there better, nicer, etc., knives out there sure but for the money it handles, feels, and looks like a knife in the 300/400 price range when it can be bought for less than 200 NIB.

My bad didn't see the $1,500.00 price limit, your talking real TOM Mayo TNT not Buck Mayo TNT, GET the mayo tnt you will not be disappointed and then get you a sebenza or two. Your done and have several nice knives to rotate.
 
Darrel Ralph has some nice options. E.g. this Torpedo Gun Hammer w/ mosaic damascus:

http://www.knifeart.com/tdaradafokn.html

knifeart_2130_89868598
 
Get a Ritter Mini-Grip and put a Wilkins G10 handle on it. S30V blade with a G10 handle...very nice EDC blade.

IMGP3058.jpg


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Or the Benchmade Pardue Griptilian, CPM-M4 Steel, Carbon Fiber (3.4" blade) About $340.00 It is bad ass!

BM551101.jpg
 
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It has to be one of the funniest characteristics of this forum that when someone asks for a <$50 recommendation people say "Sebenza" and when people ask for a $1500 suggestion people offer up knives in the $100-350 range.
 
Just checked both the sites I mentioned in my first post and see that neither place have as many Terzoula's in stock as I thought they did. They sale out pretty fast.

Another option, thought of it when I read soapboxpreacher's post, would be the BM Gold Class 750-101. Here is a link to one;

http://knives.cx/store/product_info.php?products_id=2996


Would leave you enough change to go to McDonalds.......................................................for all of 2011!
 
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