Spyderco Southard vs. XM-18?

anthony cheeseboro

anthony cheeseboro

Joined
Aug 8, 1999
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I think these two knives are actually pretty similar in design, and even blade grind. I think Spyderco could provide very similar performance in a less bulky package for half the price. Anyone agree?
 
Nfd538 said:
No. I've had both, XM18 wins all day.
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I agree. Owned both don't really find them similar at all. The southards internal stop pin severely weakens the blade there have been pics posted showing a broken blade. The southard is a fun edc flipper but not a hard use knife by any means. The grinds are not similar the southard is hollow ground and the XM's are all flat ground. XM external stop pins make for a much more hard use knife overall.

I prefer the XM but of course you pay for the better knife, lol
 
XM18 every day that ends with a "Y" for all the reasons already given. I have both and carry the CRK regularly. The Southard can't even beat out moderate duty flippers from ZT and Kizer for a spot in my pocket. The Southard is an interesting design but not a great knife. (IMHO)
 
I have five ZTs already, but I love the way Spyderco fits my hand, and a knife under 6 oz. would be cool too. Maybe I will just cough the money for a XM-18 this summer.
 
having owned both I don't see them being similar at all. I prefer the spyderco my self but there are definitely more blade grind options with the XM making it a bit easier to find your ideal fit if you don't like one grind or another. The spyderco is a great knife and it is built well and from a really premium steel.
 
anthony cheeseboro said:
I have five ZTs already, but I love the way Spyderco fits my hand, and a knife under 6 oz. would be cool too. Maybe I will just cough the money for a XM-18 this summer.
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Have you handled an XM yet? They have a devoted following by those who love them but they aren't for everyone. Considering the price I would really encourage you to at least check one out before committing.
 
PURPLEDC said:
Have you handled an XM yet? They have a devoted following by those who love them but they aren't for everyone. Considering the price I would really encourage you to at least check one out before committing.
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I live nine miles from GP Knives, I have handled maybe seven XM-18s. I like the 3.5" version. The 4" is just way too expensive for me.
 
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