Wilson Combat Rapid Response XL or Guardian Tactical Helix?

[Weldhoncho]

Either knife should fit my needs, which would likely have higher build quality and precision, and which would be the strongest and most durable?

Thanks

 

[strategy9]

I know the RR XL is high on my list... for whatever that is worth.

 

[Charlie Mike]

The RRXL is the closest thing to a DDR custom Trigger you can get.

 

[Mannlicher]

just the names of those knives is more tacti-kool than I can handle.

 

[Charr]

just the names of those knives is more tacti-kool than I can handle.

Haha
Yeah, I've owned both, and I will admit that I thought they were a little tacti-cool as well, but they also both performed very well.

For what it's worth, I sold both of those knives, but I only regretted selling the Rapid Response XL. The Helix is a lot chunkier than it seems when you look at images and videos of it, and it really isn't the most comfortable carry in either the hand or the pocket.
The only thing I ever had an issue with on the RRXL was the tip-down carry, which drove me absolutely insane. I ONLY carry tip-up when it comes to folders, so I couldn't hold on to the RRXL, but if they ever made a Tip-up carry version of it, I would gladly by another one again in a heartbeat, even though my collection has escalated significantly since I orginally had the RRXL (went from that price range and now have mostly customs or Shirogorov knives in my collection).

So, I would recommend the RRXL over the Helix almost every day of the week, but if tip-down carry is as much of a deal-breaker for you as it was for me, then you might either want to get in touch with someone who can drill and tap you new holes, or look at something different all-together.

Oh, and in terms of strength, don't worry about it. They will both do more than you will ever need them to without much complaint. Most knives will.

 

[Weldhoncho]

Thank you, and thanks Charr for the insight. I like tip down so your comments are quite helpful. I always have carried cheap folding knives and it seems they always get sloppy after a knife is used in even a relatively easy prying or twisting manner. I wouldn't be too happy if a 250-300 dollar knife loosened up much without at least a decade or two on it.