Well, I considered a Strider, but ...

[Willieboy]

Well, I considered a Strider, but I placed a pre-order for a 561. I have admired Striders for years, but have never been quite able to pull the trigger on one. Three days ago, I had a beautiful SMF in the shopping cart but, again, I Just could not take the next step.

I think the reason I went with the ZT is that I have three of them, 0200, 0300, and 0350, as well as the Kershaw Steven Seagal model and all are absolutely great. Centered blades, great lockup, came razor sharp and sharpen up nicely, etc. All the things I value in a knife, with ruggedness being most important are present in the ZTs.

I wish ZT would come out with a Tanto alternative to some of their offerings now. I know there is the 0400 but I dislike the radical grind on that model and would prefer a more conservative American tanto grind as well as a frame lock.

 

[dragonram7]

Im in the same boat. I have more than enough cash to get one. Without question, Strider is a great knife. In looking for reviews on the SMF, I ran into all the negative publicity on the company. I can see myself getting one someday but I didn't get one this time.

 

[Billthesheepdog]

I had two striders. Well three if you count the little PT's. The AR and GB were just too heavy to carry. Built like tanks but if I can't take them with me why have them? Thats why the 551 is so nice for me. Lighter but just as solid build as the AR/GB.

A monster killing knife is only good if you have it with you!

 

[Willieboy]

All in all, I think ZTs might be a more rugged knife because of the liners. Other than the Strider AR and GB, I don't believe there is a liner beneath the G10 scale on other models.

 

[DontTreadOnMe]

This is an interesting thread. I have a SMF but she takes frequent trips back to Strider to fix blade play (left right and up and down). My ZT 550 and 300 are still rock solid. It does ask the question what is the value add of a Strider? ZT are at least as solid.

I really hope this does not become a Strider politics thread. I care only about the ability of knives to hold up.

 

[J_Roc]

This is an interesting thread. I have a SMF but she takes frequent trips back to Strider to fix blade play (left right and up and down).

How many times have you sent it in for repair?

 

[lava_lamp]

I gave a ZT 561 on order, but I'm not seeing it as a replacement for my SNG. To me, they are very different knives, but I can see how someone would prefer the ZT, especially given the price.