Surprised emerson semi-convert, with some talking points/questions

Comeuppance

Comeuppance

Fixed Blade EDC Emisssary
Joined
Jan 12, 2013
Messages
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I had owned one emerson previously - a mini CQC-15 that thuroighly disappointed me. I couldn't even quite tell you exactly why - I just didn't feel it. I sold it at a loss and moved on.

Cut to six months later, I snatch up a customized mini15. Custom scales, bronze backspacer, with the original box, scales, and backspacer.





Instant EDC love. Gorgeous, unique, functional, reliable. Dead center, glassy smooth, rock solid lockup. Hasn't really let my pocket since, provided that it was reasonable to have it with me.

So, now that I'm moving back to Tulsa and don't have to fret about blade length laws, I ordered a CQC13. This is where my concerns begin.

- 2014 = standoffs?
- Should I spring for phosphor bronze washers?
- Framelock conversion: worth it for sturdiness, or not really that much of a difference?
- Custom scales: What would look best? This is the stonewashed PE version.
- Tip strength. The blade shape is both what sold me and my main concern. That tip looks incredibly fine.

Also, I'd love to just hear some general feedback and user experience with your CQC13. I have a limited data plan and no internet connection as I'm preparing to move, so I can't rely on video reviews like I usually can.
 
1) if you do get a 2014 model, it will likely have standoffs
2) I'd say if smoothness is a major concern for you then get them. The nylotrol washers work just fine and all mine are plenty smooth with them
3) I don't see a frame lock giving more strength per se, I'd say it's more of an aesthetic preference.
4) my favorite combo is black scales and stonewashed blades, I've seen orange scales that look pretty nice on some Emerson's
5) because of the chisel grind, I'd say the tip is plenty strong. As long as you aren't prying with it you should be ok.

I can't comment on the CQC-13, I don't have one. I do have every size Commander, a CQC-15, a Journeyman, and a PUK. They have all been great with absolutely no issues. I'm not saying there has never been issues with Emerson's, but it's way overblown. All mine have been perfect out of box. I've used them on soda cans, wood, food, and a lot of other materials and they hold up great.
 
^^ Nice!!

-2014 = standoffs? Yep, it should
- Should I spring for phosphor bronze washers? I actually prefer Emerson's nylatron washers. Super smooth and no need to lubricate them= less gunk buildup.
 - Framelock conversion: worth it for sturdiness, or not really that much of a difference? IMO frame locks are theoretically stronger, but in actual use you might not notice a difference.
 - Custom scales: What would look best? This is the stonewashed PE version. I like the looks of ctek
 - Tip strength. The blade shape is both what sold me and my main concern. That tip looks incredibly fine. I don't know since I have never owned a cqc 13 before.
 
Cool looking 15! Congrats on the purchase of this and the 13! I like the stand offs, easier to service. I also have been quite surprised with the nylatron not needing adjustment after breaking in the knife. I like linerlocks more being that I have disengaged the lockbar on a framelock trying to make curved cuts through thicker materials on several knives. Custom stuff is purely your preference. Tip strengh is hard to say. I have owned a couple of 13's over the years with no issues but was carefull in regards to the tip.
 
I absolutely love my 13--it is totally stock, and I would not change a thing. The tip is finer than the others pictured, but I saw Ankerson pry with it in a video review... There was no damage. Love the blade shape and the ergos are really perfect. I'll say this too--if an "ubr" 13 was built (or a super), I'd buy one of those too!
 
And what's a thread without more pics!

2zr0ves.jpg
 
Almost all current Emersons will likely come with standoffs.
As far as my experience, Nylatron > phosphor bronze. I've even swapped out the PB washers on some other knives in favor of Nylatron washers.
I am biased towards framelock conversions. I love 'em.
Custom scales? yes.
I've broken off the tip on 2 of my Emersons, and I've been able to fix them to where you couldn't even tell.
 
Nylatron washers and I like my Emersons with the rear spacer.
Liner and Frame lock, I like both.
rolf
 
Officer's Match said:
Oh yeah, that stuff is awesome looking.





Sorry 'bout the spydie content.
Click to expand...


Man, those scales get around.

I was owner number two (Preacher, the maker, being the first), and the scales have changed hands at least twice since then!

Funny to see that pop up here :D

Anyway, I initially wanted a CQC-12, but didn't want to pay twice the price for a slightly more robust tip and a framelock. I might get it converted down the road, however. Definitely switching out the scales, maybe with a polished micarta. I think that might be the ticket.
 
Soul transfer complete.



I switched over the PB washers from my Mini-15, and went ahead and moved the clip and Ti thumbdisk as well.





I think they both look a lot better now - and I skipped the whole break-in period on the 13 this way. Smooth as glass, dead center, rock solid lockup.



Love it.

 
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