Stainless steel Delica - opinions?

J

Jeff/1911

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Mar 22, 2001
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NOTE: Similar thread posted on Spyderco factory forum

Folks,

Have any of you owned one of these - the Delica II, in stainless steel handle? I am considering buying the plain edged version and have had some excellent feedback from other's on the Spyderco forum regarding it's AUS-6 blade steel. I was just wondering if anybody from here (who may not visit there) has anything to add regarding this knife and it's performance or style.

Thanks for anything you care to offer, Jeff/1911.
 
I'm generally not a fan of these, but I can say that I don't have a problem with AUS-6 the way that many others do. In fact, it's about even on my preference list with ATS-55. The latter will stay (not get) sharper, but the former is much better about rust.

Personally, I'd wait for the VG-10 FRN models to come out (Blue???). I'm not a steel snob, but I sure do like that VG-10.
 
Well I haven't seen the post on the Spydie Forum, but I'm extremly happy with mine. I received it in a trade awhile back and was going to keep it in my car, but it is one of my EDC's now. Some say its heavy, which compared to a Delica, it is. But it is a nice solid feel. It hangs in the pocket well.
I plan to send mine off to be jeweled one of these days. Make it a little classy looking. Hope this helps.


Blades
 
Jeff,
I have a couple of these, and really like the plain edge one. Like all Delicas, the tip is extremely fine, as long as you don't overstress the tip it should be great. As all SS models, extremely easy on the pockets.

One thing I have noticed in general, the serrated Delica II's when closed don't go as far into the handle as the plain edge ones. Another reason to like the plain version Delica II better; I like the tips of my knives safely out of the way when closed.
Jim
 
Jeff1911,
It is with this folder, the venerable Delica, that I have the most experience with. The SS build really is solid, although the blade has loosened up some. The blade shape is highly useful for general cutting chores and the handle is very comfortable. I can also open--or flick-- its blade very fast--it's just right.
Only disappointment (kind of a biggie) has been the weak AUS-6 steel. I find it to be very soft and has very poor edge holding--so much so that I feel it wasn't worth what I paid for it. It's what I expect in a twenty-something dollar knife.
Rust resistant properties have been good, though.

I recommend you hold out for the new VG-10 steeled Delica--now THAT would be worth waiting for.

BTW, I have replaced my Delica with the SE FRN Native w/440V for EDC+general use. Big difference in steel quality immediately noticed.
 
Thanks to you all for your feedback. I knew about the VG-10 FRN Delica's coming, but don't think I really want one in FRN. Really, the only reason that I would buy this model of knife is to own another stainless steel Spydie.

I realize how great VG-10 steel is, as my large Calypso uses it. I'd love to own one of these new Delica's in VG-10, but I find the "volcano grip" FRN handles to be too hard to draw from the pocket. I do so enjoy the way the s/s handles will "glide" in and out with such smoothness. The other things I love about the stainless models are their "heft" and their slimness of handle.

I think I'll give the plain edge Delica II a try, as I'll probably not use it too much for tough cutting anyway...I'll likely always have another with me. I suspect the AUS-6 steel will do fine for relatively light duty use. Besides, if AUS-6 does have advantages in rust resistance over ATS-55, I'd like that because I may end up cutting more food with this knife than anything else.

Shmackey - Having said all of the above, if I were to buy an FRN handled Delica it would definitely be a blue one. A very nice looking knife.

Thank again for your valued counsel. Jeff/1911.
 
Folks,

I was just about to run out and buy one of these Delica II's when I found myself trading into a stainless steel Rookie, plain edge.

It uses ATS-55 steel, & is a similar size so I wonder how these two knives might compare...

Anyone with an opinion regarding Delica II vs S/S Rookie?

Thanks, Jeff/1911.
 
Jeff:
I have a plain-edge SS Rookie. It is a little bit smaller handle but a slightly longer blade than the Delica II. The Rookie feels a bit more "sturdy" than the Delica II during some cutting chores, although in some ways I find the Delica II a tiny bit more comfortable in the hand due to its slightly bigger handle shape.

Also, strangely, although both knives have thin tips, the Rookie's tip seems slightly sturdier despite the slight swedge. The Rookie's edge is a bit thicker (sort of like the plain-edge Police, its bigger brother), but still very sharp and cuts great.
Jim
 
James,

Thanks for your feedback. I was most interested to hear about these two in comparison to each other. I'm looking forward to getting the Rookie, I think it'll be a great little "jacknife-looking" EDC choice.

Jeff/1911.
 
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