Well Crap... Mom's knife destroyed

[DocT]

Yeah she liked the push button flip to it a lot .... but I think a better steel and corrosion resistance would help out a lot more with the poor conditions it will more than likely go thru? I'm sure if I don't keep an eye on it, she'll leave it in her saddle bag for a few years then expect it to perform perfectly. She doesn't have the greatest finger strength at 69 yrs old; but she tries her darn-est! Figure I owe her a new knife for destroying her other one.

Keep the ideas coming guys..... I need help here

How big was her knife? (the one that broke?)

Kershaw makes a good knife and they are very much into flippers and assisted knives. Stay away from the Leek, Chive, etc. as they have to have a little, easy to slip off, safety catch. Some of their other knives do not need this feature.

 

[ATwistedStaple]

If it's a saddle bag companion I'd look at a multitool with a one hand opening exterior blade like a Leatherman.

The blades are easy enough to open one handed for quick access and the other tools may come in handy for repairs in the field.

 

[onojoe]

When I read you post, this is what came to mind immediately. I think too many people are getting caught up on corrosion resistance. The Kalishnicov has Aus 8 steel and many are coated. I think it is an under rated steel, and will do just fine for your mom. I got one for my dad when he was having trouble opening knives and he loved it. They can be bought for under $40... a bargain.

Boker Plus Kalashnikov has a couple push button assisted models that are pretty inexpensive. Not all that colourful though.

 

[flarp]

I did a quick search for automatics and the Kershaw Launch 2 has a CPM154 blade, anodized aluminum handles, is made in USA, and is $80.

Launch 2 was the first that came to mind for me too. Kershawguy has several in different colors (red, blue, green, purple): http://kershawguy.com/products-page/?product_search=launch 2

H1 is rust resistant, but thats only the blade. the rest of its gonna rust just like any other knife. Plus it sounds like its just gonna be a beater knife.

According to Spyderco's catalog (from the Salt 1 description): "All inside/outside steel components (lock bar, pins and clip) have been treated making them impervious to rust and pitting."

Also, I've seen a number of people who've dyed the handles different colors, so if yellow isn't her preference, you may be able to dye it something else.

 

[stonproject]

Launch 2 was the first that came to mind for me too. Kershawguy has several in different colors (red, blue, green, purple): http://kershawguy.com/products-page/?product_search=launch 2



According to Spyderco's catalog (from the Salt 1 description): "All inside/outside steel components (lock bar, pins and clip) have been treated making them impervious to rust and pitting."

Also, I've seen a number of people who've dyed the handles different colors, so if yellow isn't her preference, you may be able to dye it something else.

Whoops, I stand corrected

I still stick with the sentiment, little rust never hurt a farm tool

 

[BuckShack]

It sounds like she would prefer an assisted opening knife. Here are some options from Buck.

Buck 290 Rush Assisted 2-1/2" 420HC Blade, Purple Aluminum Handles

Buck 294 Momentum Folding Knife Assisted 3.125" S30V Satin Plain

 

[PURPLEDC]

the knife that broke looks like it was an auto not an assist.

 

[exracr]

Push the button it flips out an locks... so yeah an auto I guess?! I'll pick her up something this week. I'll update this thread when it comes in. Thanks for the help folks!

 

[KennyB]

There is no way that the steel in the old knife will be nearly as corrosive resistant as a Kershaw SpeedAssist model of knife. I wouldn't worry about corrosion.

 

[eisman]

Get her something good. Like this. Still working after 40 years, and I have several that are older. You can find them if you look around. Can't get any brighter than orange. And the shroud cutter could come in handy in the stables.

 

[stog75]

Since she likes push button, I'd advise Protech...they have some nice drop point push button spring opening side openers. Can't go wrong with the 154cm steel,offering...pretty much bulletproof and easy to touch-up. Protech tr3 or tr4 would be my suggestion.

 

[ZuluKilo]

She'll only be using this for maybe ropes or small leather pieces for repairs while out riding horses (Bridle/ reign repairs n such). It's one of those things she keeps around for just such occasions while out miles from camp. It won't get used very often fyi.

I realize that serrations aren't your preference. But, with her intended use per your description SE H1 sounds like a perfect match. It will never rust and the serrations will rip thru the rope and leather a lot easier than PE. SE H1 edge retention is also significantly improved over and PE and you get your yellow handle.

 

[dkb45]

I realize that serrations aren't your preference. But, with her intended use per your description SE H1 sounds like a perfect match. It will never rust and the serrations will rip thru the rope and leather a lot easier than PE. SE H1 edge retention is also significantly improved over and PE and you get your yellow handle.

Since he set a price cap of $80, he could get a full serrated H1 model and send the blade off to be carbidized. That will exponentially increase the edge retention to the point that it almost becomes a non issue for most users.

 

[average gimp]

Unless an assisted flipper is a must-have, I'd say a colored FFG Delica would be the way to go. VG-10 is very rust resistant and excellent at holding an edge without being a nightmare to sharpen.

 

[DocT]

A push button, Automatic knife is illegal in many places and an assist opening is legal in most places. I do not know your local laws. Also, mechanically they are more prone to problems as they are more complex.
Here is a link to Kershaw autos:http://www.knifeworks.com/kershaw-3.aspx

 

[Sosa]

I realize that serrations aren't your preference. But, with her intended use per your description SE H1 sounds like a perfect match. It will never rust and the serrations will rip thru the rope and leather a lot easier than PE. SE H1 edge retention is also significantly improved over and PE and you get your yellow handle.

I'm not sold on the whole work hardening thing. My FS h1 rolled terribly. Fresh from sharpening it dulled very quickly. If grinding the bevels and edge aren't enough to harden it sharpening probably won't do anything either.