Which one do I get first?

Joseph Bandeko

Joseph Bandeko

Knifemaker / Craftsman / Service Provider
Joined
Dec 9, 2021
Messages
1,372
So I’m going to the Atlanta blade show this year and want to get on of these...
Hinderer XM-18 3.5
Demko AD20
Chris Reeve Umnumzaan
and I’m just not sure which one to get, so I’d love to hear your thoughts.
(I will get all three eventually)
 
Others will correct me if I'm wrong but it might more difficult to get the AD20 then the other two.

The Hinderer and possibly the zaan can be found in the For Sale Forum probably. I know I see Hinderers quite a bit.

EDIT: Oooof JB confirmed my thoughts as I was typing.
 
The AD-20 is the most difficult to get so if you can find one, get this one

Otherwise an XM-18 3.5 is a great start

I personally prefer the Umnumzaan but it may good to try it in your hand to know how you feel about it

The Demko will be the toughest
The Umnumzaan will be the slicest
The XM-18 will be kind of in between
 
Last edited:
V1ddAjx.jpg
 
AD20 if you want a larger heavier blade with that locking mechanism. I liked mine when I had it.

XM 18 3.5, lots of blade profiles to choose from with the tri-way options and parts to customize. Like mine a lot.

Zaan, slimmer in hand and well made. If you're not used to thumb studs it'll take some time. Great product for the price and one of my favorites.
 
Bunker Hill Blades said:
So from what y’all are saying I think I’m gonna get the Demko, I think ultimately I’ll just have to feel them in hand before I pull the trigger.


I got no problem with thumb studs (I’m pretty “handy” 🤣)
Click to expand...
I figured, but nothing is assumed my friend.

I had the AD20 in 3V, decided I didn't need a folder with that but I'll definitely pick it up again when I'm able. It's a great knife.
 
If fidget factor is higher a priority then the XM-18 or AD20 would be your best choice. Personally, I'd go with the Zaan. It's a robust, hard use knife that feels slim in the pocket, and will do anything you ask of it and more, and although it is not really considered a fidgety knife, it is really satisfying to open. Then I'd go for the XM-18 after that.
 
Hardest to find is definitely the demko, but the best (for me) is the Umnumzaan. Great, solid, simple knife that I've used for well over 10 years.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top