Spyderco Yojimbo or Blackhawk Be Wharned

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lambman5

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Nov 25, 2014
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Hi everyone,

A few days ago I posted a thread asking about peoples thought's on the Yojimbo. I've done some research and I wanted to ask another question. To those who have owned/used either the Spyderco Yojimbo or Blackhawk Be Wharned, or both, what are your thoughts on them. I understand that they have virtually the same blade design by the same designer, Michael Janich, and similar use philosophies. The only differences i've found so far would be the handle design (sort of), the quality of the steel type, and the price range. I also waned to ask, why would one choose the Yojimbo over the Be Wharned, for they are virtually the same knife but at a lower price point. Please respond if you're able to.

Thank you,
Thomas.
 
Yo2 has better steel, stronger & safer lock, stronger tip, and the design of both the handle and blade are specifically to be more useful in several different grips.
An entry-level introduction to the design, if you want to check it out on the cheap and with the fewest refinements, would be the Meyerco Wharning.
 
The compression lock alone makes the Yojimbo 2 worth the slightly higher price. That's before you factor in the better steel, handle, fit and finish, and Spyderco name.

I like having 10 fingers, and won't mess with inexpensive liner locks.
 
Although these blades actually make great utility cutters, let's not forget that their primary focus is self-defense.

Keeping that in mind, I would go with the brand who has the superior reputation, steel and most importantly, lock. Spyderco's Compression Lock is one of the best on the market today.
 
I've handled both and went with the Spyderco. For an extra $30 you get way better steel and a superior (imho) lock. Don't forget the warranty... If anything goes wrong, the Spyderco warranty dept is on point.
 
I had a Blackhawk Be Wharned, and can tell you that it was fairly crude in its fit and finish. I am fairly sure the Spyderco would be better in these areas.
 
i have both of these knives, as i really like the design. and while they are very similar, i feel they are different enough that i would recommend buying both when you are able to. the quality of the spyderco is much higher, the fit and finish is better. the only i issue i have with the yojimbo is that the compression lock pinches my fingers sometimes when i close it and im not paying attention. i prefer the liner lock on the be-wharned but thats just me. the be-wharned also has a different blade shape than the yojimbo, it has a longer/finer point. i also prefer the blade on the be-wharned more than the yojimbo. the yojimbo is made in japan while the be-warned is from taiwan. i would try to get both eventually and alternate carry them. also, if you like that blade style, there is the kershaw "needs work" which would compliment these two very well.

yojimbo- better finish and quality
be-wharned - better design in my opinion
 
JeremiahWeaver09 said:
i have both of these knives, as i really like the design. and while they are very similar, i feel they are different enough that i would recommend buying both when you are able to. the quality of the spyderco is much higher, the fit and finish is better. the only i issue i have with the yojimbo is that the compression lock pinches my fingers sometimes when i close it and im not paying attention. i prefer the liner lock on the be-wharned but thats just me. the be-wharned also has a different blade shape than the yojimbo, it has a longer/finer point. i also prefer the blade on the be-wharned more than the yojimbo. the yojimbo is made in japan while the be-warned is from taiwan. i would try to get both eventually and alternate carry them. also, if you like that blade style, there is the kershaw "needs work" which would compliment these two very well.

yojimbo- better finish and quality
be-wharned - better design in my opinion
Click to expand...

Actually the Yo2 is made in Golden CO USA.
I have had one for a couple months now and it is a great knife.
It is very good for many edc tasks I encounter at work.

I have never handled a Blackhawk so can't say how they compare.
 
I've only owned the Yojimbo 2 so I'll give my thoughts on that.

Fit and finish on mine was excellent. The compression lock when put together right is a dream. I did end up selling mine because I didn't find myself carrying it too much. The blade shape is a bit intimidating to bring out in public and the ergos were a tad uncomfortable for me. Such a good looking knife though.
 
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