What;s next after CRKT?

M

MIGUY

Joined
Jun 27, 2014
Messages
720
Hey guys, new to the forums, 19 years old and been into knives for some time, but just currently started spending more money on them, just for for practical use but also enjoyment. The first company I came across was CRKT and I liked a few of their models, and now have 5 or so.... But whats next? from my extended time of browsing BF I realize CRKT is not the best, but makes a decent knife.... I have looked into some other knives, but often find that either they are too small to be comfortable for me (I am 6'3" and 220 pounds, so a pretty big guy with pretty large hands) or the knife is simply illegal to carry (3 inch concealed law here in MI, not that I am too concerned, but don't want to only get large knives that I worry about carrying in busy places), or because it is a larger knife, costs more because of more materials. My favorite CRKT right now is the M21-14SFG, about a 4 inch folder, I only carry it for work, but I love how it feels in hand and does everything I need it to... Any good suggestions from you guys with bigger hands on smaller knives? Thanks for any help you can give, and thanks for having such an awesome site! GO BF! :)
 
I would recommend any Benchmade or Spyderco. Kershaws are also pretty good budget folders, and their higher end Zero Tolerance brand makes some good knives. I am going to pick up some Kershaw Emersons soon. You can't really go wrong with any of those brands.
 
If you have a blade store anywhere near you go try some out. From what you say you want a big knife so ZT 0560 or maybe Spyderco Military
 
straitr said:
Welcome MIGUY... What's your budget?
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My budget is probably up to $100 right now... but obviously as with most people I could save up for a but and spend more, but that bug always tends to bite before that point haha
 
Lot's of great knives for $100. I would look at Spyderco and Benchmade, both are a noticeable step up in quality from most CRKT offerings. Start with the popular Spyderco Endura and Benchmade Griptilian models.
 
Thanks for all your recommendations so far, its nice to have guys helping out a new guy! Ill gladly look into any more ideas for me, really the biggest problem I am having with my CRKT M21 right now is that 1. screws work loose (lost one in handle one in clip, not a big deal, but obviously over time others could fall out, and put a little Loctite type stuff on to try and help) 2. the pivot screw seems to work loose after time, I notice blade play, then tighten it back up... just kinda sick of having to keep an eye on it all the time
 
Cold Steel Code 4

[video=youtube;WDTwr8ldHEQ]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WDTwr8ldHEQ[/video]
 
Look at Spydercos and never look back. I have $700+ customs and I still go back to my Spydies if that tells you anything.
 
Budget oriented you should go with a kershaw. Willing to spend more >$75 spyderco,benchmade,ZT are some main ones that come to mind. If you want a beater knife for the $50 range you can pick up a cold steel recon 1 or voyager and for both of those models there are different sizes available.
 
I'd say grab a Spyderco Manix2. The new ones in S30v steel with a full flat grind are a steal for $90.
 
I'm in MI too so I stick to a 3 inch blade or less to avoid any problems. Based on your price range, its hard to beat a Spyderco Delica 4 FFG imo. Good steel, lockback, and the ergos are pretty good for a big hand. You can find them on the forums here under $50. New online under $80.
 
If you need a 3" under blade and have big hands would get a Benchmade 585,556, or Northfork. Also DPx Heat would also be great but spendy.
 
Ulf Krogstad said:
If you need a 3" under blade and have big hands would get a Benchmade 585,556, or Northfork. Also DPx Heat would also be great but spendy.
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I'll 2nd this. I have a 585 mini Barrage and the handle is a great size and shape for big hands (I'm 6' 240lbs). The assisted opening is very fast, slick and opens with oomph. The Axis is one of the best locks on the market in my opinion. I changed the pocket clip to one from an Adamas (Benchmade will send you one for free if you ask them) and it now rides very low in the pocket. I added the little lanyard because it was actually a little tough to pull out since it rides so low now. It's my favorite carry knife. This is the first knife I've had that was finally able to get my Endura 4 out of my pocket after more than 15 years.

I initially had an issue with the factory edge grind, it was over 60 degrees inclusive, was very uneven side to side and would barely cut anything. I've since re-profiled to 28 degrees inclusive and re-centered the edge and it's a fantastic cutter now.

 
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seedubs1 said:
I'd say grab a Spyderco Manix2. The new ones in S30v steel with a full flat grind are a steal for $90.
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I agree with this, but the new Manix 2 Lightweight with S110V might be the best deal going (and my favorite EDC). Right around the OP's budget at $100 - $110.
 
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venemous said:
I'll 2nd this. I have a 585 mini Barrage and the handle is a great size and shape for big hands (I'm 6' 240lbs). The assisted opening is very fast, slick and opens with oomph. The Axis is one of the best locks on the market in my opinion. I changed the pocket clip to one from an Adamas (Benchmade will send you one for free if you ask them) and it now rides very low in the pocket. I added the little lanyard because it was actually a little tough to pull out since it rides so low now. It's my favorite carry knife. This is the first knife I've had that was finally able to get my Endura 4 out of my pocket after more than 15 years.

I initially had an issue with the factory edge grind, it was over 60 degrees inclusive, was very uneven side to side and would barely cut anything. I've since re-profiled to 28 degrees inclusive and re-centered the edge and it's a fantastic cutter now.

If you know... how does the handle on the Mini Barrage compare to the mini Griptilian? I've held a mini grip and didn't really like how it felt
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Ive never really been a fan of how Spyderco knives look, and ive held/played with a few, and it just doesn't do it for me, I know it seems a bit silly, but if im going to spend money on something, I feel I should like the look of it too... thanks for all the other ideas! I will be looking into those options, with the price of the DPx, probably not that one. thanks for all the help guys! any more ideas are appreciated, I will keep you up to date on any purchase
 
For large hands in your budget, and for a much higher quality knife, take a look at the Spyderco Police series. They run right about $100 or a little over, and give some of the most comfortable handle room.
 
MIGUY said:
venemous said:
I'll 2nd this. I have a 585 mini Barrage and the handle is a great size and shape for big hands (I'm 6' 240lbs). The assisted opening is very fast, slick and opens with oomph. The Axis is one of the best locks on the market in my opinion. I changed the pocket clip to one from an Adamas (Benchmade will send you one for free if you ask them) and it now rides very low in the pocket. I added the little lanyard because it was actually a little tough to pull out since it rides so low now. It's my favorite carry knife. This is the first knife I've had that was finally able to get my Endura 4 out of my pocket after more than 15 years.

I initially had an issue with the factory edge grind, it was over 60 degrees inclusive, was very uneven side to side and would barely cut anything. I've since re-profiled to 28 degrees inclusive and re-centered the edge and it's a fantastic cutter now.

If you know... how does the handle on the Mini Barrage compare to the mini Griptilian? I've held a mini grip and didn't really like how it felt
Click to expand...

it's thicker, more rounded than the mini grip. I think it fills the palm a bit more, but it's still comfortable and slim enough for more delicate work and not so thick that it's annoying in my pocket.
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