Time for a New Carry Knife...What 4 Inch Folders Do You Like?

N

Nalapombu

Joined
Oct 26, 2001
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303
Hey all,

I've been carrying a Spyderco Endura 3 and then the 4 that I have now for more than 10 years. The 3 was used until the clip area broke and they replaced it with the 4 and that has been my constant companion ever since. It's the plain blade.

Now I'd like to try something new, something different. I am in Texas so I can carry autos now too. SO that's in the mix too. I like bigger blade knives that have a 4 inch blade, +- .25 inches. I prefer the bigger side though. If it's an auto, I'd like to keep it under $200 and if it's a standard knife, prolly under $100. I've never had an Assisted Opener, so I'd like to try one of those.

What would you all suggest I look at and consider? What are you carrying that you really like that you think might work for me?

I'd like to hear your thoughts and ideas.

Thank you for your time.

Nalajr
 
Microtech Socom comes to mind. Many varieties from different generations. Some frame lock, some liner, some tip down or tip up, bearings or washers, inlays or not, G10 or aluminum, etc, and a lot of different steel choices. As such it's more possible to have a knife with the exact characteristics you prefer. Microtechs come with their own disadvantages such as proprietary 3-pin or 3-wing hardware on some later models however, and approximately a 3 month wait for warranty work, so keep that in mind. For minor spare components you will have to pay a lot of money - a spare pocket clip costs $30 for example.

Benchmade 710 is a great design that's more affordable than the Microtech and uses a good steel and a good lock. The Axis has its advantages and disadvantages; it can get clogged with dust and grit in short order and the springs may rust so keep that in mind if you live in a hot or humid area or your knife use involves a lot of debris. Benchmade's QC also seems to not be as good as Microtech's, but their customer service and warranty work is much faster and more reliable, and less expensive for cases when whole blades need to be replaced. Unlike Microtech they will send you components such as screws and clips for free.
 
Kizer I've been hearing a lot of good things about, and they make a couple 4"+ flippers just over the $100 range... Also the Cold Steel recon1's...
 
Maybe a ProTech TR4 for the auto? The unembellished version can be found for just over $200. Alternatively, you could keep riding the Spyderco train with a Military, Police or Ulize.
 
I really like my ZT 0452cf. It's a flipper in the $200 range, but it's bad @$$.
 
$100 for a good 4" blade is going to be tight. You're pretty much going to be limited to the Benchmade, Spyderco or Fox level. Used.

At $200 for an auto I'd try to find a TR-4. Maybe a Socom if you like them.

A Hogue may also be attainable in those ranges, not sure.
 
Well, my father got this monstrous kizer for about $150. Here it is pictured next to my edcs for size comparison. Carries very well for its size too. The loco under it is much more my style. Huge beefy blade, but short of 4".
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Kizer in hand
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If you want an auto Id at least take a look at Hogue they make a 3.5" or 4" and the couple Ive handled were light and fired fast ...they would be around your top end of $200.00 give or take.
 
A ZT 0452cf hands down. I've been through what seems like a hundred knives in this range over the last few years and this usually ends up in my pocket every weekend. Simply an incredible knife. Full disclosure - the detent is a little strong and the stock pocket clip was lame (IMO) so I replaced it with one from Max Gnoleb (he makes custom titanium replacement parts for sale here on the exchange. He's a great guy and his parts are top notch)

'nuff said and at the risk of sound a little too fan-boyish - it's friggin' awesome.

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Benchmade 810 Contego. I personally would go for the Knifeworks.com exclusive version for ~$200. It may be less, not sure. Good steel, size, and sexy!
 
Emerson makes tons of cool models in the 4" plus or minus a quarter. Check out their website.

And you really should check out the ZT 0452.
 
only 4 inch folder I own is a Cold Steel Kudu. I'd suggest a 4 inch Opinel. Sheeple and LEO friendly, you know.
 
Spyderco Military.

I got one that had been previously purchased then returned. Only cost me $90 and it was in like new condition. I've never owned an Endura so I can't really compare it, but it's a great knife. Definitely worth checking out.
 
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