Which EDC to get: Native, FFG Delica, other?

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Jan 20, 2008
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I currently EDC a Benchmade Griptillian (3.5", 154CM blade) and I do like it. I am looking for a new EDC option to change things up. I want to buy my first Spyderco... I want something thinner than the Grip, lighter, and smaller (blade length 2.75" to 3.25"). I will buy online and I want to keep it under $75. What should I get?

The Native uses a great steel (S30V) but the Delica now has a FFG blade (which I like) in VG-10. Help me sort out the pros and cons, or suggest something different in that price rang? I must add, I do not want anything with a liner lock.

Thanks.
 
I would go for a Delica. If you can swing it, try and find one in ZDP-189, it's flat ground, super sharp, and meets the rest of your criteria. It's one hell of a knife. I have the ZDP Endura and it's one of the best knives I own.
 
There really isn't a big difference in terms of performance between VG-10 and S30V in my experience
 
I know you don't want to hear this but I'd try to swing the few extra dollars and get the Sage1. IMO it's more than worth the extra cost over the Delica. Mainly, the better ergonomics but really it's better in almost every way. Just my 2 cents.
Sorry, just noticed you don't want liner lock. You might want to hold out for a UKPK light weight. I will say that I liked my Delica better than my Griptillian if that helps.
 
Go for the FFG Delica. It's a slicing machine and is a great choice for an EDC. It is very lightweight, thin and doesn't take up much pocket room. VG10 is easy to touch up and takes a very nice, sharp edge. I'm sure you'll like it after using it. ;)
 
Right around your price point on ebay is the Stretch 2. Thats what I would go with.
 
I would go with the FFG Delica or Centofrante 3 over the Native. The FRN Stretch is real nice too, but the blade length is close to the Grip's, though the handles are thinner on the Stretch.
 
I would go for a Delica. If you can swing it, try and find one in ZDP-189, it's flat ground, super sharp, and meets the rest of your criteria. It's one hell of a knife. I have the ZDP Endura and it's one of the best knives I own.
I think that knife is a great design, however, I want this knife to be a rugged, tough-use knife. My impression is that ZDP-189 is a bit more delicate than VG-10. Also, I plan on getting the Caly3 in ZDP in the future.

My favorite edc spyderco atm is the orange ukpk, its simple and a really joy to use.
I want to have a locking blade.

I know you don't want to hear this but I'd try to swing the few extra dollars and get the Sage1. IMO it's more than worth the extra cost over the Delica. Mainly, the better ergonomics but really it's better in almost every way. Just my 2 cents.
Sorry, just noticed you don't want liner lock. You might want to hold out for a UKPK light weight. I will say that I liked my Delica better than my Griptillian if that helps.
The Sage would be great for me if it didn't use a liner lock. I really want to get the Sage 2.... someday.

As far as the Stretch goes, it is large, heavy, and more expensive than I want.
 
The FFG blade of the Delica isn't exactly a "tough" blade. If you're looking for something with more strength, the old style saber grind is tougher.

I personally prefer the FFG but I don't use the Delica for "tough" jobs either.
 
I recommend the delica either in the FFG or saber grind. For some reason the Native does not appeal to me. The stretch is a good option as well if you wish to have a longer blade.
 
The FFG blade of the Delica isn't exactly a "tough" blade. If you're looking for something with more strength, the old style saber grind is tougher.

I personally prefer the FFG but I don't use the Delica for "tough" jobs either.
I agree. I won't be abusing the knife. I just want something less delicate than ZDP.

My vote's for a Centofante 3.
I'm not crazy about the very thin blade. I have considered it in the past. Nothing wrong with it, but I don't think I will get that model until I have all my other bases covered already.

Salt I, or get a tenacious and a persistence
I want a Salt I eventually, but that's for a different purpose. The other suggestions have liner locks and use lower grades of steel.
 
Sounds like you want the FFG Delica with vg10 after scanning your comments.

I'd give it a shot. I carry my D4 with Saber Grind time to time and my girl friend enjoys her FFG Delica.
 
Zippo, I think you are right. The good price on the Native with S30V is still drawing me in. I do like the simplicity and small size of the Delica, along with FFG. I think that's what I'll get when I'm ready to splurge.

Thanks for all the help and ideas.

P.S. I got side-tracked tonight and ordered a knife I've wanted for a while - Boker Trance. I wanted the drop point, not the reverse tanto, so I had to do some searching for it.
 
You can still find Spyderco Native III in VG-10 for a good price. I love the shape of the Native's blade. Some people prefer the ergonomics of the III over the current version. Light as a feather and mine came razor sharp.
 
+1 on the FFG Delica. It's super-light, scary sharp, comes in great colors, and, at $60 or so dollars (YMMV depending on where you get yours) if you loose it you won't cry for nearly so long.

I have a gray one and I just love it. It also has a 2 7/8" blade which makes it "more legal" most places...like my work...where 3" is the cutoff.
 
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