Tactical folders (nicest grinds)

Scott Green

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Just wondering who some of your favorites were. I am still trying to decide on a new knife and without going to a knife show and handling anything its impossible know. I like Lightfoot, Ralph, and Lambert and already own a Duncan that I love. This forum is an invaluable resource, thanks to all of you for your help.

Scott
 
Todd Begg
Kit Carson
Gordon Chard
Pat Crawford
Bob Lum
R.J. Martin
Tom Mayo
C.H. Morris
David Mosier
John W. Smith
Bob Terzuola
Lee Williams

I own knives from all of the above, except Lee Williams, but I have handled a number of his knives. The makers are presented ONLY for their grinds, as that is what you specifically asked for, but they are ALL fine knifemakers
 
From a pure grind standpoint, I really like the guys who do real nice hollow grinds. For strictly hollow grinds, these are my favorites:

JL Williams
Tim Galyean
Gerry McGinnis
Charles Marlowe
Kit Carson

I'm not quite as huge of a fan of flat grinds but if that's what you like, I would highly recommend Deryk Munroe, I think his flat grinds are spectacular.
 
My list is pretty much the same as commodorewheelers with the addition of

Ken Onion
Mick Strider
Tony Marifone
RJ Martin
 
And Duane Dwyer, the other half of Strider. He's got some awesome grinds.:thumbup:
 
I think the names so far are right on - Having seen RJ grind, and owning quite a few of his knives I will say I can't imagine anyone doing a "better" grind than he does. One name missing so far Is Allen Elishewitz - he makes such a variety of folders that he's probably not thought of as a "tactical" guy by most, but he does beautiful grinds and impeccable finishes

Bill
 
Though I haven't seen a lot of folders from him, Walter Brend has amazing grinds. I also really like what I have seen from RJ Martin. Many of the other names mentioned here are outstanding as well.
 
Another guy who does awesome hollow grinds is Jim Siska - don't know that he has done a folder, but some of his fighters are truly excellent.

Bill
 
For folders that I own(ed) or have had a chance to use, I'd put the following at the top of the list for grinds...

Pat Nihiser
Tom Mayo
Brian Tighe
RJ Martin
Greg Lightfoot
Mike Obenauf
Strider (the compound grinds on their factory models are nice, the customs from Mick and Duane even better)
 
Scott,For a tactical folder,with awesome grinds,don't forget David Mosier.
All the posts in this thread are fantastic suggestions,If you are into grinds,do yourself a favor,check out DM Knives!
I'd also like to add,for deep hollow grinds,Bob Dozier ,although his folders are considered hunters.
Lee Williams,for Flat Grinds,too.
Mike Obenauf model 3-Tactical,yet real utilitarian,for EDC !
Happy Hunting!
 
Thanks for all the posts and great information guys. I had never looked at anything from RJ Martin before this post and it seems that his folders look very nice. Thanks again for the suggestions

Scott
 
This won't influence your good decision, but a few names that hadn't been mentioned in regard to very clean grinds are:

Anthony Marfione (Microtech customs)
Sal Manaro (relatively unknown part-timer)
Jim Hammond (His grinds are in that VERY upper league)

Coop
 
and that I could afford is the Benchmade Skrimish design by Blackwood. It's a big folder. From my useage the blade cuts and holds the edge best I have owned. Very sturdy in every aspect. You can find them on the web for $155 and up if you look around.

The 4-1/4" modern reverse curve blade of S30V stainless steel at 58-60 Rc., has an ambidextrous thumb-hole for easy one-handed opening. Closed length is 5 3/8".

Good luck
 
A great list of names already mentioned. I can't add anyone new to it. I will echo the sentiments on Lambert, Lightfoot and Darrel Ralph. Darrel and Greg are well established and have been doing great work for a while. However, they need to watch out, Kirby is fairly new and on par with these guys already. I am going to enjoy watching him improve, some awesome work is coming!
 
hi guys, Im new, so i just would like to put my 2 cents in. I really likr marzitelli s knives. 1 he is very close to me. 1 town away. Plus they are just darn good! total craftsman. I hope he puts his new knives on his website soon because his hunters and skinners are nothing short of awesome. Hes even got a few chefs knives, w cf bolsters and great handles. I feel so lucky to have such a good knife maker so close to home. I would like to try Greg Lightfoots folder, maby that is next :) bless ya all !
 
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