SnG or AR?

S

SarcoBlaster

Joined
Jul 1, 2002
Messages
602
I'm kind of torn between these two and need some help from the people who have them. I know they're both very durable and when combined with the warranty, there shouldn't be any problems. Anywho, on with the things I need input on:
  • Is the AR really THAT much bigger than the SnG? I'm used to carrying a large Sebenza if that helps any.
  • I've heard of problems with the unconventional shape of the washers on the AR. Have they been resolved? I think it was something about the washers moving when they shouldn't have been.
  • Would the AR be too big for EDC in summer weight clothes?

If there is anything else that I didn't ask about, please feel free to let me know. The main thing I'm worried about is the overall size of the knife. Blade length isn't an issue, but I think they're pretty close anyway.

Thanks in advance for any help you guys can give.
 
These are two very different knives.

I have an AR and I want a SnG.

The AR has a tremendous amount of cutting leverage that you can't get in other folders. The SnG is very light while providing a powerful cutting edge which is enhanced by the downward tilt of the blade.

The AR's blade is .20" and the SnG is .16". So the SnG is a better slicer of softer and lighter material. The AR's larger blade and thick profile allows you to cut heavier and thicker material with greater ease.

The AR's and GB's had problems with the older washer + adhesive construction. The new folders don't have this construction any longer.

I love the AR because it lets me power through a lot of thick materials including large plastic containers. On one occasion I chopped down a 2" dead tree with the AR.

The AR is a massive looking knife and will definitely turn heads. The SnG is more subtle and is less distracting.
 
I have come across this question before. The usual answer from those who know is "buy both". Or, get the one you like first, then save up and get the other. You probably won't regret it.

You can always earn more money. Afterall, it's only paper! :D
 
I carried an AR for a month or so as an EDC. It was a bit large, but not unmanagable. My normal dress at that time was BDU's and a t-shirt, and it worked quite well. I found it a bit larger than I liked/needed and so it hit the sales forum and went on to a different owner. I've played with the SNG and think it would be a better EDC, but it is still a bit large for my liking.
 
Originally posted by golok
...The usual answer from those who know is "buy both". Or, get the one you like first, then save up and get the other. You probably won't regret it...
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That's exactly what I did! :D

Ordered the SnG just to see what the fuss is all about...and a few hours after it arrived, I ordered an AR.

Love'em both. Here's a quick shot for a size comparison. My advice would be to order the SnG first (as I did) 'cause you really won't be disappointed either way. Then when you've seen how big it is, make a decision to order the AR. Because it IS...._BIG_!

32699849.jpg
 
Gret pic, it makes me want both! I really want an SnG, I think the AR is a little too big for EDC, but would make an awesome weekend and hiking blade.
 
I have both. I got the AR because of legal issues where I live with carrying a fixed blade knife. It is *much* bigger than a large Sebenza, and as such I find it good for backpacking, hiking, etc. but it's a bit much for EDC.

The SnG is not a little knife either, but it has a thinner profile and rides better in the pocket for EDC. I got one about 6 months ago and it gets more carry than any other folder I own.
 
I have got to stop looking at pictures like that. It makes my wallet itch! :D
 
Originally posted by SarcoBlaster
[*]Is the AR really THAT much bigger than the SnG? I'm used to carrying a large Sebenza if that helps any.
Click to expand...

Yes. It is.

[*]I've heard of problems with the unconventional shape of the washers on the AR. Have they been resolved? I think it was something about the washers moving when they shouldn't have been.
Click to expand...
Problems have been resolved.

[*]Would the AR be too big for EDC in summer weight clothes?
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Nope. Just clip it IWB and you'll be fine. I have been carrying my Tac GB 24/7 since I got it. I just clip it inside my shorts and I'm good to go. I even carry it in a suit everyday at work.

The AR/GB actually fits perfectly inside the little coin pocket inside some suit pants pockets, however it is tough on the pockets. I'm going to make an IWB kydex sheath pretty soon, and that should alleviate my problems.

Overall, if you like BIG knives, get the AR. You won't be disappointed.

This sounds ridiculous, but my GB actually makes my Strider BT, Extrema Ratio Harpoon F and Buckmaster 184 look anemic and weak. Those are some really large fixed blades, so for the GB to make them look weak and small is quite a feat indeed.

Of course we all have different perceptions, so YMMV.

You won't be disappointed with either, but you'll be positively floored by the AR.

:)
 
I own both, and they are two different knives.

You use an SnG to kill a gorilla.

You use an AR to chop down the gorilla's tree to get at him.

The AR is a wonderful knife and I would never sell it, unless Mick made me something really special. If you're an average guy and the biggest thing you'll ever do is whittling a new roof truss for your log cabin, the SnG will do.

I'm not kidding about this quality. I am selling or giving away my full rotation of EDC's. If you don't believe me, ask Lynn Little. The Striders are all I need.
 
Originally posted by Ichabod Poser
I own both, and they are two different knives.

You use an SnG to kill a gorilla.

You use an AR to chop down the gorilla's tree to get at him.
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ROFLOL! :D

This is what I use for "formal" carry of my Strider AR. It's a plain, black leather cellphone case with a square top closure and no logos, etc. Just bend the steel clip a bit tighter so it won't come loose from your belt.

31209478.jpg
 
Originally posted by Ichabod Poser

I'm not kidding about this quality. I am selling or giving away my full rotation of EDC's. If you don't believe me, ask Lynn Little. The Striders are all I need.
Click to expand...

The thing is, you see, that Striders simply make all other knives look positively fragile in comparison.

I look at things differently post 9/11. You may need a tool to pry open a door, bust a window, or help clear a way out of a burning/collapsed building.

You really don't know what you will need to do. I can rest easy knowing that my Strider can and will handle positively everything that I could possibly throw at it, and come out begging for more.

Really.

Obviously, a knife isn't the best tool for some of the jobs I've described, but short of carrying around a set of full-sized tools 24/7, a Strider is the next best thing.

I can't even dream of carrying my MT UT anymore. Sure, its a beautiful knife with insanely good fit and finish, but strength-wise, it looks like a dead twig compared to my Strider GB.

You'll see what we're talking about when you get your AR. :)
 
My first folding Strider was the GB. I had never seen such a secure, stable large knife...(with well placed thumbstuds). I didn't use it and didnt want to sell it because it was, are you listening?, PERFECT.

So, I bought an SnG. Now, 4 of them have passed through my hands. I have EDC'd mine since November '02...it is very easy to EDC (even in "nice" clothes. One of the reasons I prefer it to the sebbies I have owned is it rides very " flat" in my pocket...not as boxey (sp?). I like the SnG so much, I bought a spare in case I lose mine or need to send it in for service. I like it THAT much.

If you search my name, you will see my posts on the SnG.

geoff
 
Originally posted by drjones
I look at things differently post 9/11. You may need a tool to pry open a door, bust a window, or help clear a way out of a burning/collapsed building. You really don't know what you will need to do. I can rest easy knowing that my Strider can and will handle positively everything that I could possibly throw at it, and come out begging for more. Really.
Click to expand...

I agree 100%. "Chief Wiggum" here on BF got me hooked on the SnG and I got my black one for EDC for commuting to, and working in, downtown NYC. It's legal and for whatever it's worth I like knowing I have a solid tool. For $400 it's cheaper than therapy. 9/11 proved to me that you can't count on anyone but yourself.

I do dig those tiger stripes and would like to get an AR or GB for weekends and outdoors.
 
Thanks for the help, everybody, and thanks for posting the pics, cockroachfarm. :)

Personally, I don't have a problem with large knives, it's just that I don't usually do heavy duty chores with them, but that may change once I get either the AR or SnG.

I guess I'll have to just swing by the knife store and hold each one since the general concensus here is that both knives kick ass. :D
 
Originally posted by knifedaddy84
I agree 100%. "Chief Wiggum" here on BF got me hooked on the SnG and I got my black one for EDC for commuting to, and working in, downtown NYC. It's legal and for whatever it's worth I like knowing I have a solid tool. For $400 it's cheaper than therapy. 9/11 proved to me that you can't count on anyone but yourself.
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Exactly.

I believe Chief Wiggum posted the exact same sentiments that I have; post 9/11 he began looking for knives that could be used precisely as I described.

His search ended with Strider. :cool:

Originally posted by SarcoBlaster
Personally, I don't have a problem with large knives, it's just that I don't usually do heavy duty chores with them, but that may change once I get either the AR or SnG.
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So? I'm a city slicker, but since I've gotten my GB I've:

- Opened lots of packages

- Chopped off part of a tree in our office. (1" or so diameter)

- Tightened a screw on a coworker's sunglasses. YES, with the beastly GB!!! :cool:


I guess I'll have to just swing by the knife store and hold each one since the general concensus here is that both knives kick ass. :D
Click to expand...

What "knife store" carries Striders??? :confused:
 
Originally posted by drjones
What "knife store" carries Striders??? :confused:
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Down in Irvine, CA there's a place in the South Coast Plaza called Plaza Cutlery. They worked things out with the guys over at Strider (in Oceanside, CA which isn't too far away) and will be selling the knives at the same price that Strider sells them for.

BTW, if anybody in the area reads this and heads over to the store to pick up my AR or SnG, I will hunt you down!!!:p :D
 
As others have said I don't find the AR too large for EDC.I have carried only a Strider GB or AR for the past year. All my others gather dust now. A Sebenza now and then for a dress knife.
Striders will spoil you if you need a real knife. After them all others seem like childs toys.
I have not trouble carrying mine in jeans,shorts or dress trousers.
I had to choose between an AR and SNG to replace my GB which was going to Strider for a tune up after over a year of hard use.I met
with Matt D. (Strider dealer),we both work in Northern Virginia and had an oppertunity to handle both for comparason.The SNG just did not do it for me so I chose the AR.
Any knife purchase is a personal thing based on your needs,type of carry,enviorment of carry,etc,etc.
Try to get to compare the two then decide. You can't go wrong with a Strider.
 
I recently picked up a GB and AR.
I think very highly of both and am trying to swing tanto and spearpoint SNGs.

My favorite is the GB I have. It is one of the early runs with BG42, fat ass liners, and hollow grinds.

The AR is simple an awesome knife. I think you would be well served by it.
 
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