The one knife everyone should own at some point in their life!

If this thread was a few years older we'd be saying Benchmade 710... I will still say the 710.

A classic modern knife (the very first Axis lock ever) and is going on 16 years in production.

One of my very favorite knives and the only one I ever bought a backup for... Until I realized I'd never wear out the the first!
 
Every man, some time in his life, should commission a one-off made just for him by a maker he respects. A single specimen without another like knife out there. A truly custom made knife.

Here's mine. A belt knife by Tom Mayo 18-19 years ago before is name and knives got so famous.

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Every man should own one such knife "at some point in his life".

That's a very sweet knife.
 
These aren't grail knives, but I think everyone interested in knives should own a Vic SAK, a Mora, and perhaps an Opinel even if you think you don't like them. Many like them, so you need to understand for yourself via experience. I personally am not a big Mora fan (have a couple) and have never owned an Opinel. But I am looking for my first Opinel now to expand my knowledge base.
 
Your question is making me think more than any "what knife should I buy" threads have in a while. The stream of knives that flit through my mind seem to all miss the point though - Sebenza, Buck 110, Leek, Griptilion, BM 710, Mora, Opinel, a generic Stockman, Delica, a Leatherman, hmmmm.......

I think that I would have to stick with some type of Swiss Army Knife variant. I only have 1 right now, but so does just about everyone I know. Cheap, handy, durable, non-threatening, good quality, useful, etc, etc. Everyone has to have one at some point in their life, right?

Second is a Sebenza of course :D
 
SAK
Opinel #8
Case Sodbuster CV
Case Peanut CV
Buck 110
Mora
J. Marttiini Filet

Pick one or all and with what they cost there is little reason not to own them all at some point during your lifetime. I like leghorn's idea about the custom though. Knife enthusiasts especially should experience at least one custom made knife.
 
Any type of SA, a three bladed stockman, trapper, old hickory carbon bladed knife, Buck 110, and a Kabar USMC knife. All used at various points, camping, kitchen, just bumming around the woods, and on the job. Not to exclude anything, but the first ones which come to mind.

Secondly, everyone should have some kind of a Hudson Bay knife, my favorite is ML knives, and a BHK Bushcrafter or some kind of Kephart. Lastly, a Mora, i have yet to get one so that means I will have one some time in my wandering. :D
 
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Buck 110 Hunter
A Vic SAK of some sort
A Ka-Bar or similar

All the above mentioned just to show quality knives can be had, used and retained for years without great expense.

A very cheap, crap knife. This is just to give a definition of really bad.
 
I am obviously indecisive, but I will say its between a Buck 110, a Spyderco Para-military 2, and the Benchmade 710 (preferably all three).
 
Given that this is for everyone and not simply knife enthusiasts, I would argue in favor of a thin, light, easy to carry knife. Many people look at a Sebenza and dont get it; most people take a SAK and throw in their tackle box or glove compartment or backpack. But something like a delica or mini-grip really captures the utility of a knife--the ease of use, convenience of low weight and pocket clip, value of material and construction. Anyone can pick it up and feel that it is a reliable knife, and that is something everyone should experience.
 
What is the one knife everyone should own at some point in their life?

I can't agree with a Sebenza. If the question was "What is the one knife every certified knife knut should own at some point in their life?" then maybe. But since the wording of the question implies normal folks, I'd have to agree with everyone who said a SAK.
 
I don't think there is any one knife that everyone should own. there are certainly certain knives that set standards and are held to be exceptional, but that particular knife may not appeal to everybody. Take the Sebenza for example, I'll bet it will be the most popular answer for this thread. But it does absolutely nothing for me. Nada. Zilch. Everyone says you won't get it until you handle/use/get one. Been there, done that, don't 'get it.' Not to say it isn't a fine knife, but not for me. I think this is kind of like asking "What's the best knife?" There is no knife that will be the best fit for everybody across the board. Of course, like everything else that is subjective, YMMV.
 
Sebenza... for real. Even if you don't own one, everyone should get the chance to hold and use one at least once during their time with this hobby. Just so they know what it's all about :)
 
Having looked at some pictures, i cannot fathom why i would want to own one of them.....

The opinel is seriously a knife that will surprise you. I'm with you, at first glance I didn't see the big deal. However I kept seeing the name come up on this forum, so I bit. Price point of the opinel allows this. If you don't like it, who cares it didn't cost more than a fast food meal.

Performance wise, you'll really be surprised by how well this blade does in any situation. It's really become my beater throw in your toolbox or glove box knife.

Bottom line, opinel is the Floyd Mayweather of knives. Never flashy, doesn't get the respect it deserves. But it's a winner. Add price point and you're looking at the pound for pound knife king. :D
 
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