Time for a new folder...

D

D-der

Joined
Dec 6, 2014
Messages
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For the last few years my EDC's been a Para 2
I'm not looking to replace it as it does everything I need it to and quite well...
I guess it's just time for a new knife in the mix up, something a little more substantial...
it seems like I've narrowed it down to these so far, ZT 561, ZT 801, Manix 2xl.
I've done quite a bit of homework on these but additional feedback or suggestions would be much appreciated.

I currently own a Spyderco Police, Dragonfly, a couple Balisong's, Kershaw, old Buck folder's etc.

I'm a new forum member, but have "lurked" and gained a lot of information over the years.
Thanks,
D-der
 
Check out Reate. I plan on ordering a Hills sometime this weekend. I've never had a nice flipper, and the reviews seem very positive.
 
I like the Manix 2 XL quite a lot and it would be my recommendation out of those three as it will have the best cutting performance and has a lock that I really like. That said, it takes up a lot of real estate in the pocket, so keep that in mind.
 
I just got the zt 562. I went to my local shop and handled all the ones you mentioned and narrowed it down to the562 and the spyderco southard. they both are awesome and even though the southatd has better steel and is lighter. I went with made in the U.S.A.
 
I was just on Blade HQ considering the options and noticed they had the 560 and 561 listed as a hollow grind....?
everything I've read indicated they were flat ground
 
"something a little more substantial..." is right. The knives you're looking at are just about six ounces, whereas your PM2 is 3.9 ounces. Prepare yourself for pocket-shock. That's a 50% increase in weight...You might just lean to one side unless you're a big guy.
I've had lots of ZT's; they are great knives, but they are heavier than I am comfortable with. They were designed originally for military and law enforcement, and they can take a beating without complaint. But if you JUST a casual user, you might find them heavy in your pocket. I did.
I do have only ONE ZT at this point...after about twenty or so. I have the model 0770CF, at three ounces. A very nice folder; good blade-steel, and will do everything I need it to do just fine. Your opinion may differ.

If you're a woods guy, or in construction or do heavy work with a knife, then I'd say your choices are fine.
 
I lost close to 1/2 a pound going from a steel 1911 to an alloy frame,
I'm OK with the additional weight and bulk
 
The zt801 for the money is a real nice flipper,ti framelock,and they always show up on the exchange if you keep an eye out for less than their regular price, and many have been custom anodized as well.
 
I have all listed the spyderco will be the best cutter hands down but the nicest and most fun to play with and admire will definitely be the 801. All awesome knives though all will do everything you ask of them but also be ready for added weight gain which doesnt bother me a bit but some people it does. Have fun deciding!
 
D-der said:
I lost close to 1/2 a pound going from a steel 1911 to an alloy frame,
I'm OK with the additional weight and bulk
Click to expand...

Yeah, me too. Mostly Glocks these days instead of Colt.
ZT's are great...I mean no disrespect to those knives...guess I'm just getting weaker. :)
 
Of the 3 you mention, I have the ZT 0561 and Manix 2 XL, as well as 3 Para 2's.

I carry and use the Manix more, it's a fairly substantial folder (to me), is a real user of a knife with excellent ergo's, easy one handed open/close and comfortable to EDC (to me). It's what I think you mean by 'something a little more substantial'.

The 0561 is definitely another step up again as far as 'more substantial' goes. Awesome folder, though not so much a one hand open/closer like the Manix.

Bottom line, I don't think you would be disappointed with either (I'm not), but reading your question makes me want to suggest the Manix XL as 1st choice.
 
I have got to go with the ZT0801 out of the ones you mentioned. It is fun, well built and titanium.
 
I figured the Manix XL would be a real cutter, the Para 2 does real well and I expect it will remain my main work day carry.
We run a collision repair business so I'm mainly cutting shipping band's, parts boxes and an occasional seat belt or air bag etc.
I've gotta say the 801 is looking pretty tempting....
Would you know, is the steel lock bar insert I've read about on the new 560's also on the 801's.....
and if regularly maintained would a Sharp Maker through ultra fine take care of that blade....
I cant even consider carrying a knife that wont shave a few hairs !
 
The ZT 0561/0560, 0562, Manix II XL, are all great choices. The 0562, and Manix will be better slicers though. I would add the Spyderco Southard and BM 940 to the mix. Lot of blade for the knife's size.
 
Spyderco Tanaka of course!



...it's more than substantial!
 
Well...I got my 801 yesterday
I've been getting acquainted, and like the knife quite alot.
I haven't taken it apart, but seems to be well made, well balanced, quite
smooth and sharp with a consistent grind.
The blade is straight but not centered, a folded piece of newspaper fits easily between the blade and lock bar
while a single sheet fits tightly on the other side, lock up is tight with no blade play what so ever.
I would guess it's been cycled several hundred (?) times and I've cut misc. paper, cardboard, a little rope.
As I expected (hoped) It's broken in a bit with no down side so far...except the clip, deep carry does carry well,
but for me, makes for slow presentation, even after a days worth of experimentation with different grips, also the end of the clip is just below the knuckle
of my middle finger, could be aggravating with extended use.
I passed on the Manix 2XL because I figured it would take up too much pocket and went for the 801...
I'm impressed with the knife, just gotta see if I can find a clip solution.
You're input's appreciated.
Thanks
 
Visitor message has been left for the OP.

Seeing as how you have the 801 it isn't likely, but if interested shoot me an email.
 
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