which zt??

A

Atokad

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Oct 9, 2010
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So for this upcoming holiday season I am getting my uncle a knife to use on his boat, fishing, and just for random stuff that he might do. I came with two options, the ZT 452-cf and the ZT 301. both of which are really good knives but I'm just not sure which would be better for him.
I love both of these but I'd like some suggestions on which might best. Any help would be great, Thanks!
 
I have the 452, had the 301. Depends on what you want to use them for. Both are big knives in different ways. 301 a 8oz monster, built sturdy, like a hockey puck. Assist opening, very strong knife. Not so great as a pure cutter. The 452 is big also, big as in long. Great cutter, smooth as glass opening, very, very well made. Earlier models had such a strong detent, that they were difficult to open. I have a recent one, and no such issues. For me, I would take the 452 all day long. Very light for its size, hides well in the pocket, and cuts very nice. I have over 100 great knives, which include many customs. That being said, I will never sell my 452. Hope that helps, but just play with them a bit, and buy the one you will use. Kindest regards!
 
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I'm thinking of the 452cf as well its just that he might not be familiar with a flipper design and there is also the fact that it is .1 of an inch past the legal limit (I sadly live in NY).
 
Actually, if he's not interested in flippers, the 0301 might suit him well. I just don't like assisted knives, but someone who doesn't care might prefer the assist.
 
I'm a fan of the 452cf over the 301. I have both. The 301 is just too heavy for me to keep in my pocket. But for your uncle's use, I'd recommend the 301.
 
I'm not sure if he would care for the flipper or not and i could take out the torsion bar in the 301 to make it a manual, the 562 looks good too.
 
Seems like you've picked to opposite ends of the spectrum, what about the 0562 or 0560 of 0566 These balance the weight and size with durable build. I know the restriction was to the 0300 which I love and the 0452 which I also love but these just seem like extremes to me. For a non knife person maybe I'd lean toward the 0300 as they may not appreciate the materials and construction on the 0452 and I prefer non-bearing knives for dirtier jobs or long term carry where I can't clean it up as often.
 
Atokad said:
I'm not sure if he would care for the flipper or not and i could take out the torsion bar in the 301 to make it a manual, the 562 looks good too.
Click to expand...

I don't want to bust your bubble but the 301 does not work well de-assisted. The 562 is a great choice though!
 
562CF all day long.......check out Whitty's site and get one anodized!! I have one he anodized light blue and it is gorgeous!!
Joe
 
So I think I'm going with the 562cf for him and might eventually pick up a 452cf in the near future.
 
it seems you are looking for a 4+" knife... ;)
The 0300 is very good but very heavy too
AO don't mind for me and actually for "semi-tactical" use I think it is good
But comparing the 0300 with the 0452 is almost comparing too different ages in the ZT line up

The 0300 is in the " heavy tactical folder" period of ZT

The 0452 is more in the "hard use but refined folder" (more recent) period of ZT

;)

I think as it has been said that the 0562, or 0801 which I prefer, are better compromises but they are sub 4"

At the end it is more your intended use that shall define which one will be best for you
 
Atokad said:
So I think I'm going with the 562cf for him and might eventually pick up a 452cf in the near future.
Click to expand...

My two favorite ZT knives by far. The 0562cf is the best user ZT that I have - Insanely good ergos and carries very slim. I like carrying the 452cf alot, but its not my favorite to actually cut stuff. Both are very nice gifts to say the least! Any reason why ZT? Especially if he isn't into flippers?

No pics yet?!?!
29799066176_caf35aa721_h.jpg

23946902065_a4cc89244a_h.jpg
 
First, Those photos are awesome! I mean its not that he doesnt like flippers its just that he probably isnt used to it. I just picked zt since its a good brand and I like most of their designs and materials.
 
Is he on the water a lot? Salt or fresh? Are you thinking it will be an EDC type knife or a boat knife he leaves in it and might cut bait with?

I've grown up on boats and fishing and can't imagine not carrying a knife, or 3, while on a boat though I know many don't carry one. It can only take a split second for something to happen and with all the ropes and lines on a boat, I want something I can get to with each hand that I can quickly deploy and make a cut if needed. And I want a backup in case one is lost, dropped, or inaccessible.

Even if you get him a ZT, I also really suggest getting a Spyderco salt model with serrated blade. It absolutely will not rust and doesn't need to be rinsed off after being in salt water, and a serrated blade will go thru a rope like a chain saw. It's not only a really handy boat knife but it can also be a life saver, literally.

Good luck with your choice. I'm sure he will be thrilled with whatever you decide on!

Edit: stupid auto correct
 
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