Some thoughts on the "Improved" Merlin

Hawkbill

Hawkbill

Joined
Nov 22, 1998
Messages
982
I have been examining my new Merlin for hours now, trying to figure out just why it is SO much nicer than previous editions of the Merlin/Harpy I have...

First off, I have to say how pleased I am with the reversible clip. Since I carry a blade on my left side, this has reduced contortions in deploying the blade considerably.

Another nice touch was using the ATS-55 blades in the Merlin series (previous models had AUS-8 blades, saving the ATS & G-2 steel for the Harpy's).

The roughed "Volcano Grip" Zytel handle is the right size and configuration for may hand now. I believe the Delica handle was drafted to fit the new model Merlin, but wherever it was borrowed from, it's a winner.

Thank you Sal (and crew) for another great innovation!
Brian
 
Hawkbill,

Since these are your specialty, I thought you might tell us where the Merlin fits in your knife carrying picture. Do you think of it as a utility blade, self-defense blade, both or just where do you think it fits in the overall scheme of knifedom?

This is an interesting addition, and I like what I see. I don't know if I need one or just want one yet. So many knives, so little money/time.
smile.gif


[This message has been edited by Bob Irons (edited 22 June 1999).]
 
Well Bob,
the new Merlin can fit the bill as both a wonderful utility knife, and a very good defensive knife IMO. I have taken to carrying the Merlin and a Leatherman PST II daily, and they seem to fit all of my needs very well.

As some have pointed out (better than I could), a defensive knife ideally should be kept ultra-sharp, and designed with that as it's primary purpose. In our less-than ideal world, I find it impractical to always carry a Civilian, AND a utility one-hander, AND my multi-tool. Something had to give, and in this case, it was the Civilian. The Merlin will be used for one-handed access to cut stuff, and I plan to keep it honed well-enough to serve in any emergency which may arise (although I have other tools luckilly available for serious social-work).

Others may have to rely exclusively on a blade for defense, and in that case, more needs to be considered beyond just which model to carry.

I certainly see this "new" Merlin as a viable choice for either role.
Brian
 
I have to agree with Brian - the Merlin serves well as both utility and self defense if needed. I've used the Harpy/Merlin as an everyday working knife since the early eighties and advocate it as the best rescue knife for whitewater activities or any other sport involving ropes. I have also used this blade shape in knife/counter knife training scenarios and it will inflict a lot of damage very quickly without necessarily being lethal. Ask anyone who attended Sooner Steel. The new Merlin is definitely an improvement on an already good knife. It has a flatter profile, better feel in the hand, and is better suited for fast grip manipulations. Because it's primarily a utility blade and not a "stabber" you can easily defend carrying it if you necessary. It's also great on seatbelt extracations. I've replaced the G-10 Harpy I wear daily in a neck sheath with the new Merlin because of the lighter weight.

Mike

 
Hey Mike!
Can I get a neck sheath for the new Merlin??? Send me an email with the scoop at your convenience.
Thanks
Brian
 
I'm curious about the neck sheath too. I may be a wuss, but I feel queasy about having a straight-blade knife pointing at my throat all the time. What happens if you fall on it and the pommel hits the pavement at the same instant you fall on the tip of the sheath?

Anyway, it seems that the Merlin could be carried open in a neck sheath much more safely than a straight knife.
Who are some suppliers of neck sheaths for the Merlin?
 
AEM,

Mike Sastre of River City Sheaths makes neck sheaths for lots of Spyderco knives including the Merlin. Have a look at the sheath he made for Dexter Ewing's Military. He is also making the sheaths for the BF Native.

(Mike, I thought I better respond for you so you wouldn't be seen as blowing your own trumpet
biggrin.gif
).

------------------
Take care,
Clay

Don't worry that the world might end tomorrow....in Australia it's tomorrow already.

 
AEM,

Folding knives can be carried closed in a neck sheath for safety and be deployed on the draw if the sheath is made properly. Knives with opening holes such as the Spyderco line are particularly suited for this and blade can be put into action as quick or quicker than an automatic.

Thanks, Clay!

Brian,

I've got a Merlin sheath with your name on it. Talk to you soon.

Mike
 
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