Why ZT550 < ZT560 my opinion

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mc556

Joined
Dec 6, 2008
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354
I really love the 550 but I bought a 560 because of ZVT flipper design.
So I'm not sure about anyone else if the frame design isn't prohibitive why not a 550 flipper?

It's slightly smaller size would go along way IMO. I obviously don't know what sales figures are on them but as of right now 550's are cheaper and in stock so I think that says it all.
Consider this my petition for one.

Of course I'm not sure what that mystery knife is in Thomas's pocket dump picture but a smaller edc version of the 560 3-3.5 blade would likely outsell it's big brother. What easier way to get one out quick then to tweak a existing knife. Lord knows there is a market for it. BTW since it's my idea I need the first one
 
if only they would add KVT and a flipper to the 055X, it would be the perfect knife IMO. the 056X is certainly a nice knife, but i personally prefer both the looks and slightly smaller size of the 055X.
 
Making a knife smaller is tougher than making it larger from what I've read. It's not as simple as you might think. There needs to be all new tooling to make everything proportional and functional, takes a lot of time and money.

Thomas did mention at one point that ZTs are designed to be big, beefy, and heavy (specific demographic). Kershaw has offerings in that arena that are already in stock. I understand about wnting an existing model, but keep in mind, the Cryo is on its way. Just sharing what I read, not speaking for anyone.
 
RevDevil said:
Making a knife smaller is tougher than making it larger from what I've read. It's not as simple as you might think. There needs to be all new tooling to make everything proportional and functional, takes a lot of time and money.

Thomas did mention at one point that ZTs are designed to be big, beefy, and heavy (specific demographic). Kershaw has offerings in that arena that are already in stock. I understand about wnting an existing model, but keep in mind, the Cryo is on its way. Just sharing what I read, not speaking for anyone.
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Not looking for a scaled down 560 it would be cool I just would like them to add ZVT and a flipper blade to the 550 I would pay the same as they are asking for a 560 if it were available
 
mc556 said:
Not looking for a scaled down 560 it would be cool I just would like them to add ZVT and a flipper blade to the 550 I would pay the same as they are asking for a 560 if it were available
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The KVT (Kershaw Velocity Technology) would be a nice addition. But, once the knife gets broken in a bit it's smooth. It would be interesting.
 
Thinking about getting a 0550 for the hell of it but really feel its a waist the 56x series is perfect
 
I am a hater of large folders but I actually think the zt056x is amazingly compact for a blade that long. It really doesn't feel "big" at all. IMO if they were to sell one the same size as the 0550 nobody would buy the 0550.
 
I like big knives but dont feel like carrying one all the time. Id be all over a 55X with kvt and flipper. I still havent gotten a 550 but probably will soon.
 
I love KVT that's why I got a 0561, if they have made a 055? with KVT, I sure will get another 055?.
 
I like some flippers but not all. And theres just something about a nicely built manual opener that i love. Am i right?
 
I'm way more of a flipper-fan than thumb-studs, but even I have to agree with the OP.

After getting my 0551, it's been carried a lot. I got a 0561 from KershawGuy a while back and I have to say that it is probably the superior knife in almost every way (3D Machining, super-lightweight-relieved, KVT, Flipper, low-rider pocket clip, Better Jimping, etc.). The detent-retention on my 0551 is insanely stiff and hurts my thumb to deploy, but I still carry it well more than the 0561. The 0561 only gets carried when I can actually haul around a knife that is nearly 9" long when open.

I'd love a slightly smaller 056X over a flipper-055X with KVT (think about it - then you'd gain 3D machining, low-rider pocket clip, all of the extra milling out for weight, etc.). That being said, I'll likely never get rid of either of these knives. My only gripe with the 056X is that I wish the scale was milled for the pocket-clip to seat lower into it so it doesn't catch on things (and the CF version looks to have those millings).
 
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