What Is The Quintessential Affordable (Under $100) Knife Every Collector Should Have?

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Jan 30, 2012
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Title says it all but to go more in depth. What knife/knives that are at the $100 price range and lower that is just an amazing "bang for your buck" type of knife that should be found in the collection of any knife aficionado.

I'm going to name a couple that I think are an amazing value and just darn good knives even if the price were higher but are in fact under $100

The first would probably be a Kershaw Leek or the like due to the fact that they are really cool, lots of fun, well built, reliable and covered by a great warranty.

The second, though I don't own one yet, would probably be the Spyderco Delica or Endura. I picked this one because Spyderco seems to be the darling of collectors to such a degree that I already purchased one for instant gratification and will be paying for my Para2 in a couple of days after I get paid.

There are others but I'd like to know what you guys think is the one or two knives, for under $100, that everyone should have in their collection?
 
If you can get one for under $100 (they're usually around $105 or so), a Spyderco Paramilitary 2 will be one of the best knife purchases you make.
 
Every knife collector should have a swiss army knife. Hell, every upstanding gentleman or lady should have a swiss army knife (whether they're a 'knife person' or not). They're inexpensive, subtle, socially acceptable, very well made, and handy as all hell. I like the Alox Pioneer best myself. :thumbup:
 
@Dorito Monk

Can't believe I didn't think to mention this one but you're absolutely right. Probably the most versatile pocket knife/tool on the planet. Like you said, well made, will last and last, will get you out of jams you never imagined you might end up in.

@Hitari0 , I'll be getting my Para2 in a few days so I'll let you know but I think that $102 qualifies into the $100 or less range. I can't wait for that Para2 to be in my hand. :D
 
@Dorito Monk

Can't believe I didn't think to mention this one but you're absolutely right. Probably the most versatile pocket knife/tool on the planet. Like you said, well made, will last and last, will get you out of jams you never imagined you might end up in.

@Hitari0 , I'll be getting my Para2 in a few days so I'll let you know but I think that $102 qualifies into the $100 or less range. I can't wait for that Para2 to be in my hand. :D
You won't regret you purchase.

Also, you could consider a Leatherman instead of a SAK. I've had a Charge Ti for a year or so and it's served me very well. It's definitely a bit bulky for EDC though.
 
Hi Ogien! I think a lot of folks new to the hobby go through the phase of snapping up every 'good review' or 'value' knife they can find. I know I did. If I may offer some advice: be less concerned with quintessential pieces and focus on what interests you. Otherwise, you may wind up owning a lot of knives that you don't particularly care for after spending a lot of money that could have gone towards a much better knife that you'll love. So try to keep the focus on the knives that speak to you: browse the sales websites, watch the YouTube videos, read the reviews, and try to actually handle the knives down at a Brick & Mortar store when possible.

Good luck! :)
 
Hi Ogien! I think a lot of folks new to the hobby go through the phase of snapping up every 'good review' or 'value' knife they can find. I know I did. If I may offer some advice: be less concerned with quintessential pieces and focus on what interests you. Otherwise, you may wind up owning a lot of knives that you don't particularly care for after spending a lot of money that could have gone towards a much better knife that you'll love. So try to keep the focus on the knives that speak to you: browse the sales websites, watch the YouTube videos, read the reviews, and try to actually handle the knives down at a Brick & Mortar store when possible.

Good luck! :)

Wise words there.
 
If I may offer some advice: be less concerned with quintessential pieces and focus on what interests you. Otherwise, you may wind up owning a lot of knives that you don't particularly care for after spending a lot of money that could have gone towards a much better knife that you'll love. So try to keep the focus on the knives that speak to you: browse the sales websites, watch the YouTube videos, read the reviews, and try to actually handle the knives down at a Brick & Mortar store when possible.

Good luck! :)

Totally agree, I personally decided I wanted to branch out from the types of knives I have been collecting and expand into the "new generation." Personally I've only had my sites set on one or two makers, the first was some offerings from Kershaw and the other is Spyderco. I agree with you though about checking these things out in person and knowing exactly what you're getting into before you shell out $$$.
 
Another make that I think should be in everyones collection is probably any number of different Buck knives. I know the 110 is very popular but I've never handled one and I don't know how much they sell for.

Nevertheless, there are plenty of good, affordable Buck knives to fit just about every taste. I know that the older Buck knives were pretty sweet and since the company is still around I would hazard a guess that they still put out quality product.
 
Everybody knows this, there are two that you should have, a Swiss Army and a BUCK 110. Endofstory. keepem sharp and your welcome
 
If you can get one for under $100 (they're usually around $105 or so), a Spyderco Paramilitary 2 will be one of the best knife purchases you make.

Unless you opt for one of the super-steels. Then you're somewhere between $225 (knife outlets) and $500 (Ebay).
Sonny
 
A multi-blade slipjoint. There are hundreds of patterns and materials to choose from, but everyone should own at least one. You'll find they can be carried everywhere, are socially acceptable where "tactical" knives are not, and range from <$10 to >$3000. But be warned, they are habit forming. Here's part of a haul from a couple years ago:
slip2.jpg
 
What about a full tang fixed blade knife? Which one is the quintessential knife that fits the < $100 limit? A couple of bucks over $100 is ok but it's gotta be no more than $10 over IMHO.
 
There are very many USING knives under $100, but what about knives just to collect? I would think something iconic. I dont have much interest in classic slip joint knives but something like a Kabar would seem to be iconic.
 
has to be a kabar. there good value, have alot of history and if its just for collecting thats probably all that matters
 
What about a full tang fixed blade knife? Which one is the quintessential knife that fits the < $100 limit? A couple of bucks over $100 is ok but it's gotta be no more than $10 over IMHO.

Kabar, Becker, ESEE, Buck 119
 
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