Stretch?

[Krazy Cash]

I was one of the guys that liked the Delica, but thought the handle was too small. I tried the Endura, but honestly, the nose drop near the tip (for added strength) just bothered me and I eventually sold it. Tried it again on the FFG model, same result.
Then I saw the Stretch. Got the SB version, loved it. Same old story: needed the money, sold off a lot of my collection.

A little while ago I bought the ZDP FRN version. I'm digging it! So much that I just scooped up a HAP40 and now I have my eyes on the CF and G10 versions.

Its a sickness...and i'm ok with that.

 

[jstrange]

Thanks much Deacon. That's the info I was looking for.

 

[jstrange]

I had a Stretch II, CF with ZDP189. Very nice knife to carry, super slim and lightweight, the steel is excellent though needs to be touched up regularly as you do not want to let the edge get dull.

I sold it after four years of carrying for almost what I paid for initially and replaced it with a PM2.

The compression lock on the PM2 is much preferred and the shape of the blade, much more useful.

The Stretch II is a very fine knife and if I were to get another, it would be only in the CF version. YMMV.

Funny you should say that as I am considering trying to trade my PM2 for a Stretch!

 

[skers95]

Thanks for this thread, all. I've been eyeing a Stretch and wasn't sure where things were in term of the new model. I have large hands so might wait to see how the new FRN model comes out. As with a lot of people, I think it might be a nice mix right between the Delica and Endura but with some nice, unique qualities of it's own.

 

[Climb14er]

Funny you should say that as I am considering trying to trade my PM2 for a Stretch!

Like I said, both are excellent knives. The Stretch CF is thinner by a little. Smoother carrying, by just a tad.

But as mentioned, the compression lock is the clear winner. So is the blade design of the PM2. The S30V steel is easier to sharpen and touch up.

The Stretch CF disappears inside a pocket, it's that slim. THIS is the only positive advantage I see between both knives.

Both fine knives. YMMV.

 

[jstrange]

I am really so intrigued by the Stretch simply because I like the FRN lockbacks and feel it might be the perfect size. The Delica a tad small and the Endura a tad big.

 

[jazzz]

Whatever they're called, here are some pics...
(Ignore my hairy legs - I have shorts on!)

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[skers95]

Whatever they're called, here are some pics...

Jazzz, how are you liking the new one's handle in comparison? I don't have a place near me where I can check them out in person but been really curious about the grip for larger hands. Those both look sweet.

 

[bearfacedkiller]

The third Stretch which is called the Stretch2 has three main changes. The hump towards the blade tip is enlarged, the choil is bigger (both deeper and wider) and the pinky horn is extended a little and less pronounced. The original fit my hand very well but the new version should make it easier to use with gloves on. Both handles are comfortable to me.

Sal has confirmed that the molds are being changed so the original Stretch is officially gone. If you want one you need to swoop it up soon. The VG10 versions have dried up quite a bit but the BRG ZDP models are still readily available, for now.

You can see the changes in these pics.

 

[jstrange]

Thanks for all the great info and pics everyone. I kinda like the older blade with the newer handle shape...

Looking at Jazz's top down pic, the blade looks a tad thicker than I thought it was. Regardless, I need to pick one up sooner rather than later.

 

[jazzz]

Jazzz, how are you liking the new one's handle in comparison? I don't have a place near me where I can check them out in person but been really curious about the grip for larger hands. Those both look sweet.

It feels a lot better for larger hands. Not quite so cramped, not that it was really cramped, but it just feels better. It's like a whole new knife to me, but I like it.

 

[Chris "Anagarika"]

Jazzz, BFK,

Thanks for sharing the comparison and observation.
My hand is small, so I'd stay with older version. Luckily got a used VG10 and HAP40. I like the pronounced tail curve.

Found a good way using the shallow choil, thumb in hole, forefinger on the spine behind the forward hump and middle finger on the choil. Very secure for detail work.

 

[jazzz]

Jazzz, BFK,

Thanks for sharing the comparison and observation.
My hand is small, so I'd stay with older version. Luckily got a used VG10 and HAP40. I like the pronounced tail curve.

Found a good way using the shallow choil, thumb in hole, forefinger on the spine behind the forward hump and middle finger on the choil. Very secure for detail work.

Very cool. Sal knows how to design them.

 

[skers95]

It feels a lot better for larger hands. Not quite so cramped, not that it was really cramped, but it just feels better. It's like a whole new knife to me, but I like it.

Cool, thanks for sharing your experience on that.