Skyline vs. Griptilian

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I'll put it this way. My fde skyline is in the 2nd class basket. I have 4 grips in the primary basket. A 551 550 555 and a 556

 

I've owned both. Mini-Grip all day long.

 

Well if your name is any indication of your hand size, I'm thinking you will find the Skyline a bit slim to use, where the grips have a more substantial size handle and now they are coming out with G10 versions!! very nice.

BUT since you said it wouldn't or might not be for yourself? which is an odd request in and of itself, I'd still suggest the grip full size version, I just got the 551-1 with the new CPM-C20v steel and G10 scales, quite nice!



I also own a Skyline, actually I had modified it's blade to a more pointier style more to my liking, also a very nice knife but for an EDC it feels too light a carry/slim, good office knife maybe?



G2

 

I would go with the griptillian because it is bigger and a higher quality knife, but I think many people underestimate the strength of the skyline. The tip isn't very strong but the liner lock is very well designed and altogether I would say it is pretty strong for it's size and slimness. Back when I had one it always felt sturdy and I actually batoned down some ~1" oak saplings with it as a test with no blade play afterwards.

 

Grip, unless it was a premium Skyline. I prefer the ergos of the Skyline more.
Untitled by Danny Nystrom, on Flickr

 

Considering you can get a blem Skyline from Kershawguy for right around $30 and Grips start out just a bit over $100, you're really doing an apples and oranges comparison. If money weren't a factor, it'd be Grip all day, every day. The Grip is one of my favorite knives, particularly when upgraded with aftermarket scales or the new G10/20CV versions.

But...dollar for dollar...is the Grip really 3X the knife the Skyline is? I don't think so.

So, if the massive difference in cost isn't an issue, then by all means go with the Grip. However, you'd be hard pressed to find a better knife for $40 than a USA made, Sandvik steel, G10 Skyline.

 

Totally different animals...

Premium Skyline I would say is in the same grade as a Griptilian, cf handle and s30v blade, for around the same price, but still different beasts...

 

I think a mini Grip vs. a Skyline is a better comparison. The full size griptilian is a whole different size category.
But of those I'd take the mini Griptilian (sheepsfoot) or a delica over the skyline, however they're all great choices depending on your price range and size/lock design preferences.

 

Mini grip is a far better knife IMO, except for the plastic handles. However, the grip costs quite a bit more! I would look for both used and compare for yourself, then sell the less desired knife.

 

The skyline is slim as mentioned, but takes little bit more flick with the wrist/preload the flipper.
The grip is easier to flip open due to the axis system.
Both good knives.
S30v if going with skyline.
I would lean more towards the grip, but people love the skyline as well.

 

I find the skyline to be a poor flipper and not very comfortable. But it does slice very well and I prefer the liner lock.
However I prefer the steel on the grip. And for me the grip is a work horse that will take a beating. But it does cost a fair bit more.

 

I own both the Skyline and mini Ritter Grip. The Grip is better, but at more than twice the price, it ought to be. I don't like how the Skyline opens, but the super thinness is great. However, neither one can kick the Delica out of my pocket.

 

I'd take the Grip over the Skyline any day of the week.
Skyline just isn't in the same class.

 

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Both are great knives!! I really enjoy bench-made. However, the price is double, last time I looked well actually over double. I can't say I would pay double for the mini grip. Both are made in USA by good companies.

Bang for the buck skyline