Which one would you carry?

Joined
Jan 24, 2004
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237
Hey, guys. I was wondering the following:
I recently ordered a 3.88 inch CRKT Crawford/Kasper folding knife for carry purposes, as well as the 3.9 inch Benchmade 710. Putting aside the issue of comfort, which one would you carry?

From what I understand, they are both fast to deploy. They are both about the same length.

To me, the Crawford/Kasper looks "scarier", which can be an advantage or a disadvantage. It's an advantage if it helps persuade an intended attacker to change his plans (which is probably unlikely), and a disadvantage in front of a jury. The Benchmade, putting aside its length, looks fairly "innocent" and utilitarian.

The Crawford/Kasper looks like it has a better grip, and it's heavier weight (6 ounces vs. 4.5) can give it a tactical advantage as well. (Probably better for "slashing".)

Which would you carry and why?

Regards,
cds1
 
When CRKT offers knives with better steel, I'll consider purchase of their knives. Not until.

The 710 is available with excellent blade steels. The only problem I have with the 710 is the slight recurve in the blade grind, which I don't like due to my personal preference for sharpening with benchstones.

Consider the Benchmade 806D2. Excellent design and an excellent blade steel.
 
I know what you mean. I am also weary of buying any of their products that use the "softer" AUS6 steel. Many of their knives are produced in two separate versions, one made with AUS6 and one with AUS8. I purchased the version that has a blade made of AUS8 steel.

Regards,
cds1
 
It would depend on why you want to carry the knife. If for SD then a slightly larger, scary looking fast opener is a good thing. If you just want an EDC then a less scary knife would be better. Seems like you are more interested in a knife for SD though. I wouldn't worry to much about what a jury would think unless you plan on being the attacker. In a case of SD you use what you have, and do what you need to. If it is truly SD you probably won't be before a jury anyway.

That said, wait until you get them if you haven't already. Then carry the one that is more comfortable to you. Having a knife that is uncomfortable or awkward for you is not much good.
 
I received a BM 710 a few days ago from a trade, and I've been carrying it as one of my EDC's. I like the Axis-lock, and the smoothness and speed of it's opening & closing. The 154CM steel, dual stainless liners, G-10 scales, and lefty-friendly pocket-clip are also big pluses for me.
 
I have own(ed) both. I currently still have the CRKT both large and small I gave to my eldest as he is more into the knife arts. If I was going to carry a knife for s.d. it would definetly be the CRKT as mentioned. The grip index is much better and you could use the handle for a pain compliance tool. You ordered the 8a steel model which is more than adequate for its purpose that you intend it for.

I never have cared much for the the 710 models I have owned. I have owned a couple of different models with the requisite steels. I don't care for the grip ergo's and the general shape of the blade. That is just me though. It just doesn't sit well in my hand and I can't figure out why.

I agree with the previous comment on the 800 series of knives. I own a round hole model that I really like. The knife is pretty old now too and is starting to develop a nice slight recurve to the back bottom of the blade and it opens like it is on ball bearings. Lockup is dead nuts solid too.

Not to confuse the issue anymore than necessary you should look at the CRKT M1 folder. I have the plain edge I have been edc'ing for almost 3 wks now and I have to say that the damn thing carries well and cuts way bigger than what the blade size would indicate. It is easy to get sharp and stays that way too, more so than what I would think AUS8 steel is noted for. For 43 bucks and shipping you won't find a more stout little folder for the price. Keep'em sharp
 
singing: Benchmade, Benchmade, cha cha cha! :D (No, I don't work for them or anything; you just can't go wrong with a Benchmade.) Well, okay, I do sell them, but I sell CRKT's too.
 
i carry a BM 710 clipped to my pocket and a fixed CRKT Crawford/Kasper companion in an IWB sheath behind the hip. the companion is for SD and the 710 is for everything else (including back up SD).

i guess what i'm saying is: carry both.
 
You can't go wrong with Benchmade and the 710 is one of their best, if not their best.
 
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