Thinking about new small EDC

J

jasonbroni

Joined
Dec 10, 2009
Messages
325
What smaller bladed edc's do you guys like? I'd finally like to try out a Spyderco, and was thinking about a sage 2 (I really like the framelock). Was also thinking about a mini grip, but not sure about the axis lock.. how is that??
Give me some ideas, but no higher than $150 please! And blade between 2 1/2" and 3".
Thanks!
 
(quick edit - I know I'm not giving you guys ANYTHING to go on - I'm really only asking what you guys like... Then I'll check 'em out!) Also - probably obvious, but I like a strong/solid lock up..
 
I've got a mini grip and have never had a problem with the axis lock. I've actually got many Benchmades and the locks have all been flawless. The mini grip has it's place in my briefcase. For a smaller EDC, I'm currently trying out a ZT0900. My primary EDC is still my XM-18.
 
If you are looking in that size range, the Sage and mini-grip are both good choices. Lots of people like the axis lock and it works well, but overall the Sage will seem like twice as nice a knife as the mini-grip. I would probably be looking at the Sage 1 myself.
 
jasonbroni said:
What smaller bladed edc's do you guys like? I'd finally like to try out a Spyderco, and was thinking about a sage 2 (I really like the framelock). Was also thinking about a mini grip, but not sure about the axis lock.. how is that??
Give me some ideas, but no higher than $150 please! And blade between 2 1/2" and 3".
Thanks!
Click to expand...

The axis lock is very nice to use and locks up really solid, I would highly recommend a 940. ZT also makes some incredible frame locks for the money, 0562, 0801 to name just a couple or the 0808, 0450 the list goes on might have to work to get them in your price range but well worth the splurge.

Here is Benchmade 940 just cause pictures rule.

 
The axis lock is great, but I prefer my pivot slightly loose so it swings open freely which might give a little wiggle on blade play, but the lock itself is very strong. It is one of my favorites. The mini grip is always thrown in my pocket for a beater knife. I have the sage 1 and its solid and I'm sure the 2 is as well. The sage series makes a nice dress knife also. I don't think you can go wrong with either , but I think the sage offers a little better value.
 
I have a mini Ritter, which is essentially a mini grip with better steel and a slightly different blade shape. I really like the knife and the axis lock is fantastic. Only knocks on the knife are that it has bad centering and slight horizontal blade play. The lock itself is very nice, I just would like some better quality for the price.
 
I am going to go ahead and break your $150 boundary by $25 and say that the Lionsteel TRE in G10 looks incredible. It is an sub 3" M390 flipper on bearings and ti-framelock. That checks every one of my favorite boxes.
Yet, I don't have it because I always end up spending my money on other things.

As far as EDC goes under $150 and under 3", I would recommend a traditional: GEC #15 or #77, or Northwoods Everyday Barlow. The EDB has CPM154 steel and looks great. That is one I am saving up for and will probably buy myself for christmas.
 
Spyderco Delica or Benchmade Griptillian would be my choice. Pretty much equals in my opinion. Both are handy little knives.
 
jasonbroni said:
What smaller bladed edc's do you guys like? I'd finally like to try out a Spyderco, and was thinking about a sage 2 (I really like the framelock). Was also thinking about a mini grip, but not sure about the axis lock.. how is that??
Give me some ideas, but no higher than $150 please! And blade between 2 1/2" and 3".
Thanks!
Click to expand...
The Axis lock is phenomenal, if you can get your hands on a 707, that knife is like a tiny light saber, it's got a super sleek handle and a ton of blade for 2.9" and ~2.5 ounces.

The 525 is another great one, it's got a similar blade length with a little more drop to the spine and a larger handle that feels like it belongs to a bigger knife than <3".

Any of the nice Spydercos in your size range like the Sage or Caly 3 would be a good buy too.

If you like an assist check out the 587 little Barrage in G-10.
 
Oh and the Delica and Mini Grip are both excellent.

Slim goes to the Delica, sturdy and comfortable is the Grip.
 
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