Stylish folding EDC? (30$-50$) Also, need info on knives!

Tremos said:
I'm looking for a strong thick build with a modern look. I'm willing to pay up to 60$ for now ( I'll eventually go for higher-ends )

Also, I know a lot of people told me to get a spyderco but I don't like them. Their looks are turning me off. As I previously said, I liked the S&Ws because of their appearance.

Is there any similar brand that is actually worth buying "qualitywise"? (since you guys don't seem to like the S&W knives :P)

Thanks!
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I'm a big fan of Kershaws. Most of their $50 range knives are American-made, and they all have a lifetime warranty that covers pretty much anything. The recently discontinued RAM or G-10 Speed Bump (the Speed Bump in particular has a pretty stocky build) should be good options, and I'm sure you can find them under $60. Both were pretty popular knives, so when they're gone, they'll be hard to get. They're coming out with a new knife called the Cryo, soon, which is Chinese-made but looks to have very sturdy construction.

For a much cheaper option, you could try the Chinese Enlan knives, particularly the EL-01. Those can compete with some much more expensive knives, although they don't have the great customer support system and the steel isn't as good as most others. For the price, though, you could get 3 of them that should each last a very long time.

Benchmades are usually above that price point, but you might be able to find a Griptilian for about that much. The Axis lock is very strong. Buck is another good American company, but only for some models. And the popular Vantage pro seems a little flimsy IMO.
 
I think Kershaw is a very good brand to look into. Depending on what size you want, you could look into the Blur, Leek, Skyline, RAM, Junkyard Dog, Speed Bump...there are plenty more but that's a good start. There are also a ton of variations in those (for example I have over 70 different Leeks ranging from $20 to $250) so do some research and feel free to ask more questions.
 
In my opinion too Kershaw is a good brand. I owned a Skyline for a while, great little knife.
 
I agree with everyone here.
Smith and Wesson knives are iffy.
I wouldnt go as far to say theyre HORRIBLE, but theyre not up there with quality.
I have one, and its sharp, and likes to stay sharp.
BUT its an ugly design, it stick out of my pocket too much, and theres literally NO blade detent.

I recommend the Cold Steel line of knives.
Theyre really strong and most come with an awesome Tri-Ad Lock
 
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I'm backing kershaw all the way. but IMO, just go to the closest basspro, cabellas, or any other store that displays and allows you to handle their knives. fondle any that you like (at least try a spidie) and find one you like.

if you find one there, get it, (it will be pricyer though) or go online and order.

if you don't find one, come back and say something like "hey guys, just say an awesome benchmade griptillian, but it's to expensive. what are some similar, cheaper competitors"

and if you want a recommendation now, you can't gi stockier stronger or just all around tank like than a recon 1 from cold steel.
 
You could get many nice knives from Kershaw. In this price range they are the king. Spyderco has a few options in that price range, and you will get to higher priced knives very quickly. I would start with a Skyline. I have it in my pocket right now and love it. I do not know if it fits your stylish criteria, but they do have a few different handle colors (orange, red, and brown I think).
 
Tremos said:
I was also seeking a good-looking folding blade as a first purchase
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Unfortunately there are 10 or 20 or maybe 50 different knife models that could apply here so it is difficult for us to cover them all. I would think that Kershaw and Spyderco are your best bets, but Cold Steel, KaBar, Ontario and even Benchmade have models that might work for you. There are different lock types, different handle materials, different blade materials and shapes, and even different colors to think about.
 
Thanks everyone.

I think I will go to a store and try different kinds before ordering on the net. You've all really been helpful.
 
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