What do you look for in a folder?

I hate to sound like an echo, but I agree with everything that has been said above.

I love folders that open smooth, and have good ergonomics and no blade play. Also I know some people don't care for it, but I like it when you open a folder and it has a really positive and loud sounding "click!". Right now the favorites that I own are my Sage 1 and 2. The WH EDC I just bought is also nice, but too small and delicate for me.

I don't know why, but Spydero never used to appeal to me. Now I think the Sage 1 and 2 are my absolute favorite folders that I own. In fact, I like them so much, they are currently just living in the boxes looking pristine. My EDC is a CRKT M16 EDC (which im always posting about) which has tons of blade play and is a POS IMHO in comparison. Maybe I should have bought 2 of each Sage, drawer queens, and ones to use.

-Freq
 
Blade, handle, some kind of pivot.

I enjoy quality overall. I like all types of locks, slip joints, friction folders. Doesn't have to be expensive. Really comfortable ergonomics stands out to me. Most of the knives I get tend to be one-handed openers, but that's not necessary for me. Well, so long as I already have that covered from my main EDC knife.

I evaluate a knife based on it's intended purpose, either from the designer or my purpose for buying it. For instance, I EDC a Case Mini Trapper. It's for slicing or when I need a really, really sharp, thin blade. I realize that its edge retention won't keep up with the latest super steel. I don't worry about its lock reliability. I also EDC a Hinderer XM-18. I don't compare its slicing ability to a thin bladed slip joint.
 
First thing I look for is blade length.
I like 3 inch; little over/under.

Then the rest falls into play...
-Price
-Blade shape/grind/material
-Handle material
-Fit and Finish

etc..etc..yatty yatta
 
Powernoodle nailed it for me. I can't seem to find anything that moves my Caly 3 or D4 out of my pocket for more than a few minutes. They just do everything I need a folder to do so well.
 
- 2.9 inches to 3.9 inches blade length.
- Tough solid construction for a folder.
- Good to excellent fit and finish appropriate for the price level.
- No sharp edges on the handle, thumbstuds or other opening devices.
- One-handed opening and closing of the folder.
- Ease of cleaning, oiling, sharpening and tightening the screws.
- Blade steel AUS-8A and upwards.
- No blade coatings where possible, not a deal breaker just a drawback. Satin finish is pretty good IMO.
- Tip-Down Carry :o (Safer, also a matter of habit) (Hope this is not heresy).
 
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