Recommendation? The Next Step...

[DocT]

Manix 2 Back Lock. No need to look at anything else.

 

[Chris "Anagarika"]

OP,

Stainless, more tough than wear resistance and a classic, I can't think of other Spyderco but Endura VG10 FRN. Your choice of FFG, SG (PE, CE, SE).
Spyderco lockbacks is as good as it gets.

Not high end, but it doesn't stay on the lineup for nothing.

 

[powerslave]

Go for PM2

 

[ChazzyP]

I'm considering the Millie as well, but I was thinking some smaller (à la PM2 size) would be more socially acceptable to the general public around where I'd be using it. I also prefer tip up carry and I'm jonesing to see a compression lock in action!

I was thinking about mentioning the Millie in my first post, but backed off as I think the Para2 is a better first choice for you given the other two you picked up. You already have your ZT for a 4" knife in your arsenal, and its framelock is comparable to the linerlock of the standard Military. (There are framelock Millie's too.)

It's funny, as I think I prefer my Millie's to my Paras overall despite the fact that I'm a huge fan of the compression lock and a tip-up carry guy. The thing with long knives is that in tip-up mode you have to "climb down" the handle with your grip to actuate the blade, whereas with tip-down one simply rotates the knife when drawing and the appropriate digit is right there. I have lots of other long knives and they're all tip up, to my liking, but I can see the logic behind the Military's configuration.

Anyway, after this long digression, I'd still advocate for the Para2 for you, but will only half-jokingly lay the standard BF answer on you--get both!

They make a great pair!

 

[Chariotz4]

I was thinking about mentioning the Millie in my first post, but backed off as I think the Para2 is a better first choice for you given the other two you picked up. You already have your ZT for a 4" knife in your arsenal, and its framelock is comparable to the linerlock of the standard Military. (There are framelock Millie's too.)

It's funny, as I think I prefer my Millie's to my Paras overall despite the fact that I'm a huge fan of the compression lock and a tip-up carry guy. The thing with long knives is that in tip-up mode you have to "climb down" the handle with your grip to actuate the blade, whereas with tip-down one simply rotates the knife when drawing and the appropriate digit is right there. I have lots of other long knives and they're all tip up, to my liking, but I can see the logic behind the Military's configuration.

Anyway, after this long digression, I'd still advocate for the Para2 for you, but will only half-jokingly lay the standard BF answer on you--get both!

They make a great pair!

I prefer tip up carry too, but I too also see the logic behind the military's configuration. My dad has an old spyderco police that's tip down, right hand carry only and given how long the knife/knife handle is, I can see why that's the way it is. As for grabbing both, I likely will...when my funds will allow it!