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Southard or Tuff?

Under my normal daily activities I much prefer the Southard however if I was really going to beat up on it (c'mon, who does that anyways?!) I might lean towards the Tuff. The Tuff's unique design really fascinated me for awhile which is what ultimately lead me to trying one.
 
WorkingEdge said:
Wasn't there a slight rework of the Tuff? I bought one recently and is very flick-able and can be closed one handed. Solid without play.
To OP, I wouldn't be able to choose between the two. Love them both. Can't find any flaws in fit or finish.
Click to expand...

I have one of the early ones...I've handled a newer one at my local knife shop and the lockbar is definitely a little less stiff, as is the detent, but I don't mind it being stiff...I bought it with heavy duty in mind, and it certainly is that.
 
I also bought the Tuff when it first came out . It was impossible to flick open . The detention was incredibly hard . The first batches also had lock problems . The knife would close with very little pressure . I sent it back and got the Southard . It has been one of my favorite knives . I ran into Ed Schempp at a knife show and talked to him about my experience . He assured me the newer built Tuff have addressed the problems . He had a couple Tuffs at his table and they flicked open and the lockup was great . I now own both .
 
Mine's still tough to unlock or flick open, but no spine pressure will cause it to open up...I haven't spine whacked it, but I've put my whole weight (~170 pounds) onto it because I've read threads of lock release on early Tuff models, and it's solid as a rock in every direction.
 
Had two of each. Southard is a nice folder for EDC and a bit of rough stuff.
The TUFF is a whole 'nuther ball-game. When things get REALLY tough, then give me the TUFF. My first one was hard to open, but my second one is easily opened and closed with one-hand. 3V steel is a winner. It will rush, but not easily if you dry it and oil it a bit occasionally.
I can take the Southard to work, the TUFF to war.
Sonnydaze
 
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