XM-18 Flipper or Thumbstud?

[Josh K]

How is the deployment speed on the XM-18 with the thumbstud? Quick or like a Sebenza (must push the blade through the entire range)?

You can pop it open pretty fast with the thumbstud. Completely unlike the Sebenza. More like a SMF.

 

[cziv]

Thanks Josh K.

 

[C Ben Susrool]

With a light thumb flick, mine opens quickly and smoothly.
No wrist action needed. And yes, it locks up securely, that is I don't have the pivot too loose.
3.5 "

 

[bearcut]

How is the deployment speed on the XM-18 with the thumbstud? Quick or like a Sebenza (must push the blade through the entire range)?

Like Josh said, opening with the thumbstud is fast, WITHOUT any wristflicking.
It is NOT like a Sebenza.:barf:
In fact, the XM-18 flippers are slow to open UNLESS you wristflick them. The flipper on XM-18’s isn’t a very good design IMO. Very few designers get flippers right.



The thumbstud only version of the XM-18 is an easy, fast deploying knife.

 

[LorenzoL]

I agree with Bearcut, however I think it is more of a compromise than a design problem. I have yet to see a flipper that has a detent strong enough to make it an effective flipper and yet comfortable enough to open conventionally with the thumbstud. The XM-18 is a compromise, it flicks but not like a rocket, but can still be used like a non-flipper.
The Burchtree Sauron I have, for example, flips very well, also thanks to the IKBS, however it is almost impossible to open with the hole opener because of the more "extreme" detent.

 

[Gress]

I prefer a non-flipper and it's like a glass and opens quickly.