The BladeForums.com 2024 Traditional Knife is available! Price is $250 ea (shipped within CONUS).
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It's a great knife, but if you shouldn't spend the money, wait. It will be around later.
The M2's my "end of the world" backup....
Would a FFG S90V Manix2 cut better than a HG 154CM Manix2? Depends.
Hollow ground gives thinner stock for the first half of the blade and tests from Deacon show it actually out-performed the original mini Manix in some activities. The tip is a little thicker on the M2 so some penetration (eg: Phone books) are going to hold the M2 back. That said, the tip is is an amazing combination of point/reinforcement...the best of my knives.
The edge on a FFG model will stay sharp longer due to the harder steel. It will break down cardboard boxes (for example) easier and for a longer amount of time between sharpenings.
I think the M2 in 154cm is a good knife. For $65-85 it's an AMAZING knife. It's a heavy duty folder and 154cm is definitely still a premium stainless steel that will take quite a bit of torsional shock. Remember, for 99% of the audience it's basically an American VG10 for sake of wear/ease of sharpening, etc.
I have plans on getting a ZDP Stretch as my box destroyer. The M2's my "end of the world" backupSure it could whittle, break down boxes, and open mail but it's not exactly a lightweight EDC pocket razor.
PS: Not to get into brand vs brand wars, but I do agree with what one person said in that BM has used 154 in HG blades for years and nobody cares but anything short of S30v and the Spyderco AFI's roll their eyes. My M2 came out of the box so sharp that it could turn paper into dust.
I think we should be glad we get the option to see S90v/ZDP and not knock Spyderco for having price-point values like the M2 Standard Edition. It makes one helluva nice beater knife for anyone! Buy both!
How strong is the polymer cage on the Mannix 2?
I'm having one of those impulsive moments and feel the need to buy something - even though I know I shouldn't spend the money!