Spyderco ATR or Camillus Maxx 5.5

S

Steelgaze

Joined
Jan 21, 2003
Messages
53
trying to decide which knife to buy, got them lined up at about the same price and I'm looking for something to use more or less as an EDC. What do you guys think? If you have another suggestion in the area around $150 (+ or - $50) drop your ideas here.
 
Is blade length an issue where you live? If so, the Maxx is probably way over the limit. Also, D-2 is more rust prone than S30V. Both of those factors favor the Spyderco ATR. Blade shape is probably a tie between both models. Most people find the traditional framelock easier to work than the integral compression lock. That would favor the Cuda Maxx. Overall, I would take the ATR. Another good alternative would be the Camillus Dominator if you like assisted opening. www.newgraham.com has them dirt cheap at $130.62!:D
 
I own the ATR and the Cuda Maxx 5.5. I really like the Maxx, but the ATR makes a better EDC. Also the ATR has V30 steel.

The Cuda is very very cool and is neat to carry if you like the "wow" or "freaky oversized knife" look now and then. However the big size of the Cuda can draw unwanted attention if you are not careful.

I like oversized knives. I own the Cuda, Tops Magnum, 2X Cold Steel Voyager etc. But I don't find any of them to make a good EDC. Simply too big for every day use and easy carry.
 
ATR owners:

What is the mechanism by which the ATR blade is held closed? I know that many liner locks use a ball-bearing/detente, and my Spyderco Gunting, which has compression liner lock, uses the tip of the liner engaging a swage in the tang -- a design I prefer immensely. I cannot tell from pictures what the ATR uses, so please describe it for me. Thanks.

---Jeffrey
 
These are both outstanding knives, so I think the primary issue is what size you want for your EDC. I have carried my Maxx every day for more than a year-and-a-half now. It took me about five minutes to forget it was in my pocket the first time I wore it and it has never bothered me since. I like having "more knife" for the occasional situation where it comes in handy.

Not everyone is comfortable carrying around a 6" long 6 oz. knife even if it is quite slim. Not everyone sees any need for a blade that size. If you fall into either category I'm sure the ATR would serve you well too.

--Bob Q
 
Originally posted by anthony cheeseboro
I'm pretty sure that the ATR uses ball detents to hold the blade in also.
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Actually it doesn't. The blade has a section milled into it that the compression lock fits into when it is closed. The compression lock holds the blade closed. Seems to be an inprovement over a ball detent.
 
My Maxx is my EDC. I have no problems carrying it as it fits all of my pockes fine. There are occasions when I am wearing a very light fabric that it pulls to much. That's not often for me.

You need to decide what size range you want. Most people prefer a smaller knife for edc.

2 great knives! 1 tough choice!
 
Dirk--nice sig
I trained for years to get my left hand to work..I've been waiting for this moment..BanG!
I saw it again yesterday.
 
Maxx is my EDC as well. I have one of the older, thicker framed ones, still easy to forget it's there and I find the extra length to be more of an asset than a hindrance. (in daily normal circumstances, not just tactical perspectives) I have a tiny single bladed Camillus pen knife I also carry if scaring sheeple should become an issue. The new thin framed ones are especially light and friendly. It's all been said about the sizes, etc. so I won't rehash everything but if the choice were mine, I'd go with the Maxx. It's my favorite knife for the times when I can't carry my BK-5. (then again, I realize my tastes are quite odd at times) If size is even remotely likely to be an issue, I'd go with the ATR.
 
Runs With Scissors: My Maxx is one of the thicker first-run models also. I have occasionally thought about getting one of the thinner ones, but this one carries so well I haven't really seen the need. They sure are fun knives! :)

Dirk: This is off topic, but I've been meaning to tell you how much I like your avatar! My EDC (Every Day Car) is a blue 2003 Subaru WRX Sport Wagon. :D

--Bob Q
 
I own, and cast my vote for the Maxx, or if thats to big the Dominator.
 
Bob Q. Good choice in an everyday driver! I just traded my 02 WRX for an 04 WRX. I was so close to getting the STi! I could have done it for the same payments that I had on my 02, but by getting the 04 I actually lowered my payments substantially. Having the extra money won out. This time!

Dijos - Some of the best westerns ever! "Hey Blondie! You know what you are? You're nothing but a dirty son of b****!"
 
Originally posted by bquinlan
Runs With Scissors: My Maxx is one of the thicker first-run models also. I have occasionally thought about getting one of the thinner ones, but this one carries so well I haven't really seen the need. They sure are fun knives! :)
Click to expand...

If yer gunna go big, ya' might as well go all the way, eh?:D I've come to simply prefer the thicker handles of mine, it jus' kinda gives me that warm an' fuzzy feeling inside, ya' know? I'm sure I'll wind up with a newer model also which is all well an' good, but, I'm thinkin' I'll always have a place in my heart for the old one.

Right now I'm busy tryin' to find a way to afford the 7.0:D Everyone wonders if I'm insane carrying the 5.5. If I start carrying the 7.0 I think it'll remove all doubt!
 
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