What's the best combat folder?

Joined
Sep 9, 2002
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I'm looking for a 3.5" - 4" blade. The longer the better of course.

Thinking about the Spyderco Bob Lum Tanto. I already have the Al Mar Sere 2000, but that blade is on eht short side and I hate its thumb stud.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.
 
With a blade of four and one-quarter inches long, I like the (SS SE) Spyderco Police model as my "combat folder".
 
I cant imagine anything being better than the Microtech
Socom Elite, it would be my pick hands down.

My second place knife would be a Benchmade AFCK axis or a Microtech LCC.

These three knives are bult like tanks and have strong locks and are very sharp!
 
When you say combat, I take it as a non civilian fight- therefore you go get this as MY choice
mtultratantobks.jpg
Microtech ULTRATECH thats a OTF autofire out and auto retract.

now if you meant... a guy is threatening you with your life.. then you go with a 6 " voyager from ColdSteel.. in a fight I wouldnt be worried if the atacker thinks my zytel handles look cheap.
 
Okay, thanks for the suggestions so far. I am not rich so I was only thinking of spending only around $100 or a little more. I'm sure there is great fighting folder for that much? I'm not a cop. Just a citizen without a CHL at this time. Thos Microtechs are very nice, but too much for me in terms of price.

BTW, if I have a CHL eventually, I would carry a Smith and Wesson Airlight J-frame loaded with 38 Special +P's, and one speedloader reload.
 
I carry a Spyderco Renegade.The deep finger choil keeps my finger away from the steel and sticks the blade way out front.Excellent in reverse grip too.I almost never read about this knife in any forums..............wonder why?.
 
I may be in the minority, but I much prefer the looks of the Chinook II to the Chinook I. Also a renegade may be hard to find as they have been discontinued for awhile now.
 
... a balisong? If not, there is the Emerson Hard Wear line. You might want to consider some of the newer Cold Steel folders. Then, of course, there is a multitude to choose from with Benchmade, CRKT, and Spyderco. How about a Kelly Worden WorTac? So many knives, so little time ( or money ). Good luck. You are only limited by the amount of choices out there ( and there is a lot ), your time, and your pocketbook.
 
I don't believe there is such a thing, and I would invest my money in 'something else' if I thought danger could not be avoided.

But, enough preaching, this is your thread and you deserve a well thought out answer.

I think the best combat/practical/tactical/survival knives are the ones designed by experts, not magazine editors.

To that end, I'd buy something from Ernest Emerson, a SERE, or something from Strider. These experts have direct information from professionals, and have invented folders to that end.
 
By "combat folder", do you mean a dedicated fighting folder, or a folder a soldier might take into combat? I think the two roles have some similar requirements, but some differing ones.

I believe the Benchmade Axis AFCK is the finest production fighter available at any price. Super sharp tip for piercing, forward rake for good slashing, opening hole is the best opening mechanism for many people, incredibly reliable and strong axis lock, and a handle that is secure and works so well ergonomically that it actually enhances the cutting ability of the blade.

Overall, my advice would be: 1. avoid liner locks, period. 2. Handle the knives yourself to make sure the handles work well with your hand, in whatever grip(s) you favor. 3. Make sure the knife is carryable for you -- not so big or heavy that you'd leave it at home.

Joe
 
Understand your all of your grip preferences and skills and make sure the grip meets your needs. I found that as I have recently added the reverse grip, blade in to my training skills - I do not have a knife that supports that grip effectively. And I am shopping for one.

Have a blast shopping!!
 
Cuda Max is certainly one that would make someone think again before going on with there plans to jump! Paul
 
For your size parameters, I'd go with the AFCK. It is a design that has logged some miles and it is still a very effective, solid design.


Dennis - Chinook II? I missed this. When and how much?
 
The REKAT Pocket Hobbit. It's specifically designed for combat and the reverse grip. It works equally well in a forward grip and takes no prisoners when it comes to self defense. The locking mechanism is strong so the fear of it collapsing can be forgotten. It's not really designed to be a cutter but, you can use it for small cutting chores. If you desire a cutter, look into the Master of Defense line of knives; Tempest or Duane Dieter Folders



IF WAR IS HELL, TAKE A BETTER PITCHFORK THAN THE DEVIL
 
Originally posted by Dirk
Dennis - Chinook II? I missed this. When and how much?

Sal says the Chinook II is a couple of months out. I haven't seen anything on sugeested retail.
 
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