Spyderco Paramilitary 2 vs Manix 2?

J

JDX

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Mar 2, 2014
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Looking to make extra money so one of them has to go. Is there anything that one can do that the other can't? They're both s30v and g10 models. For me, I like the blade shape of the pm2 better and the ergos of the manix 2 better. They're my "medium-large" folders. I have the delica 4, and plan on getting rid of my native 5 g10 in s35vn. But out of the manix 2 and pm2, which would you keep and why?
 
Tough choice, but I'd keep the Para 2.

I prefer the Compression Lock to the Caged Ball Bearing and the Para sits a little slimmer in the pocket. Both are comfortable in hand as far as shape, however, the ridiculously high set and prominent jimping on nearly every edge of the liners kill the Manix for me.
 
For me and my EDC needs I would take the PM2, it does everything I need in my daily tasks. However, I think the Manix 2 can take a bit more abuse due to the not so delicate tip, so if you are a bit harder on your blades take that into consideration. Can't go wrong with either though, two of Spyderco's best!
Untitled by Danny Nystrom, on Flickr
 
Manix 2 for me but I use my knives a bit rough so I wanted it tough. Saw videos testing the various type of locks and the manix 2 performed extremely well. The blade shape also lends itself to be used without fear of damage IMO
 
I like the Manix 2 but the blade shape was too leafy. Wanted to give it a more Para2 shape. I think it came out ok.
20160226_115710_zpsgrb8krlv.jpg


Having both it would be hard to pick, can you sell a kidney instead? ;)
 
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I got rid of my pm2. Its the cooler knife, more compact, more pocketable, more ergonomic.

The manix, like the native and the Delica has that ergo thing going for it. When opened it positively locks into my hand in a way where I stop caring about what's cool or what looks better or is lighter. I just care how it feels in hand. The pm2 feels great in hand but tueanix feels perfect to me.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk
 
Basp2005 said:
I like the Manix 2 but the blade shape was too leafy. Wanted to give it a more Para2 shape. I think it came out ok.
20160226_115710_zpsgrb8krlv.jpg


Having both it would be hard to pick, can you sell a kidney instead? ;)
Click to expand...

Oh man that came out nice!
Did you do it yourself? If so, how?
If you have any more pics I'd like to see them.
 
Sorry OP, got a bit enthralled with Basp2005's pic and forgot to say, if it was me I would keep the Para2 for it's blade shape, overall profile and compression lock (much as do like the CBL).
Tough call though and if I somehow only had a Manix I would be quite happy with that.
 
I'd keep the Manix. The jimping has never been an issue for me and the ergos are simply outstanding.

I'm just a huge fan of the Ball Bearing Lock haha.
 
Having owned both knives, i would have to say keep the PM2. The manix 2 and the XL didnt do it for me mainly for blade shape and I do like the compression lock...Im on my 2nd PM2 btw...
 
Thanks everyone. It seems it comes down to what is more important to me: blade shape, locking mechanism and ergos. Stupid question, if I just put the pm2 blade in for the manix blade would that work or probably not because the lock mechanisms lock into the blade differently? Actually just ignore this lol
 
JDX said:
Thanks everyone. It seems it comes down to what is more important to me: blade shape, locking mechanism and ergos. Stupid question, if I just put the pm2 blade in for the manix blade would that work or probably not because the lock mechanisms lock into the blade differently? Actually just ignore this lol
Click to expand...

That will not work at all totally different lock faces on the blade. Modifying your Manix 2 is pretty easy if your not happy with the blade shape. However, I think it will grown on you.
 
Keep the PM2 brother!! The 'fun' factor alone makes it the winner for me!
Tough choice tho.....I have 4 of each model and don't want to get rid of any of them!!
Joe
 
On second thought what kinda shape are your kidneys in? You could sell a kidney for way more than your Pm2 or Manix 2. Then you could keep both knives. I'm sure you'll miss the kidney less. :)
 
Cursum Perficio

Yep, did it myself. Belt grinder, water, and patience. I like to add choils and other basic mods.
Don't have any other pics.
 
I don't have a Manix so I can't help ya OP. I don't have one cause I keep buying PM2's instead. Guess that sums up my thoughts. PM2's rule!
 
If I had to choose between the two I'd definitely choose the Manix 2, personally. The ergos fit me better, they seem to be more consistent in their quality (PM2s commonly have issues with blade play and lock stick), the tip isn't as delicate, and overall I like the CBBL more than the compression lock.
 
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