What's a good cheap hard use folder?

B

Bubblinwaters

Joined
Jan 24, 2012
Messages
71
It was a nice day yesterday so I decided to get the motorcycle out and go for a ride. It occurred to me that I'd like a knife to keep in the storage area for emergencies or a bit of impromptu shade tree maintenance. I would like to get a folder that I could really beat the crap out of and not really feel bad about abusing. I'm not willing to scratch up my strider or emerson so I was thinking about a Cold Steel Recon 1 with their triad lock. Would this be a good inexpensive option? Are there others capable of taking a beating in the $50 to $80 dollar range? Not really interested in anything Gerber, CRKT or Buck. Not interested in the multi tool stuff either. Thanks in advance!
 
I think the CS Recon or American Lawman would be perfect in that role. The Triad Lock is pretty impressive too....

Ka Bar has a bunch of overbuilt inexpensive folders too.
 
[video=youtube;d9Agy18nm2E]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9Agy18nm2E[/video]

you can get it for 15$!!!
 
JPD1998 said:
I think the CS Recon or American Lawman would be perfect in that role. The Triad Lock is pretty impressive too...
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Cold Steel Recon 1 or American Lawman was exactly what I was going to suggest too.
 
I've grown pretty fond of my Byrd Cara Cara 2's. My G10 version seems to have just a bit stronger lockup than the FRN, probably due to the spacer being metal rather than plastic. I'd imagine it's also a bit stronger overall. I do prefer the FRN version though; it's lighter, looks better, and feels better in the hand (the G10's liners are a bit sharp). They actually have better lockups and more comfortable ergos (for me, 6'10" with giant hands; not really a fan of "ergonomic handles") than my 3 Enduras and I like the slightly thicker blades in a knife of this size. I've actually never carried those things, that being one of the reasons, and should have returned them to the online store. Oh well.
 
For 25 bucks the pocket bushmen is a steal. Super strong lock, decent blade steel and a very capable blade shape.
 
Mr. Bob said:
I've grown pretty fond of my Byrd Cara Cara 2's.
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That's my suggestion. I've seen the FRN version as cheap as $18 and the G-10 under $30. Stupidly good deal for the price if you can live with 8Cr13MoV steel (I can) and don't mind Chinese manufacture. Very solidly built and at a price that won't make you cry if you scratch them up or other minor damage.
 
In the $50 range, the cold steel american lawman is a good choice.

In the $75 range, the spyderco manix2 is a good choice.
 
Bubblinwaters said:
I'm not willing to scratch up my strider or emerson so I was thinking about a Cold Steel Recon 1 with their triad lock. Would this be a good inexpensive option?
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Why not!? Those things were made for it...kidding aside, I'd recommend a Kershaw Rake from "kershawguy". Been sportin' one for a couple of weeks now. Fantastic. D2 composite, nice looks and A/O. Big plus..Made in USA just like my Striders and Emersons.
 
Junkyard Dog from kershaw guy...if you are looking for a durable beater, he usually has some blems which would serve you well
 
instructed2 said:
For 25 bucks the pocket bushmen is a steal. Super strong lock, decent blade steel and a very capable blade shape.
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I agree with every point you make, & yet I can't stand this knife.
The handle is uncomfortable for really hard work, & the blade tries to bite me everytime I close it. I would rather spend 3 or 4 times as much on a friendlier knife.
 
timberweasel said:
Ontario RAT-1.
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What he said.

ON8848.jpg
 
Use you Strider and Emerson, take the plunge then use that $50.00 to $80.00 for a good steak dinner! But if you must, then any of the Cold Steel offerings would be my choice. The Rajah's and AK47 preferably.
 
From personal experience with maintenance and going to remote areas.

Swiss tool.

Has a saw, blade, pliers, a thick tool to pry with, wire cutters, screwdrivers, cheap.
 
I'd like a knife to keep in the storage area for emergencies or a bit of impromptu shade tree maintenance.
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SAK: It'll stand the Weather and won't leave you Stranded.
 
I would try to find a fixed blade that would fit in the storage space, but if it has to be a folder I can't think of anything much better than a CS Tri Ad Lock. Also consider the regular Voyager, they seem plenty sturdy to me.
 
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