Younger brother is turning 13 and wondering what knife I should get him

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Chris8

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As the title says my younger brother is turning 13 and he needs a knife. I'm king of leaning towards maybe a traditional slip joint like the northwoods Fremont Jack, every kid needs a slip joint growing up. But give me some suggestions, thanks!
 
How about a Manix 2? It was a great first knife for me, even back when my hands weren't as large.
 
Spyderco Tenacious or Persistence. Would make a great first folder, and not so expensive should he misplace it.
 
I agree about a slipjoint. There's just something about owning one. I remember having them as a kid/teenager and then getting away from them for a while. I carry a peanut everyday now no matter what other knife I tote. I love that little knife.
 
You need to check with your parents and abide by their wishes in this matter.

I agree that a slip joint is a good first knife. It teaches you to cut with the blade and not stab with the point.
 
May I suggest for single blade: an Opinel or Svord, love those carbon steel blades although IIRC both are available in stainless as well. Other semi-traditional options include Higonokami friction folders, K55 Mercator, and Douk Douk. Folding Hunter, Sodbuster, or Barlows are options but tend to be a bit on the heavier size.

I personally prefer Opinels and Mercator. If a larger budget traditional is desired check out the CRKT Centofante or the Kershaw Folding Gent's Lockback in VG-10. For the very small, bare minimum pocket razor check out the Fallkniven U2 and U1.

If multiple blades are required can't really beat a simple Alox SAK. Muskrat and Peanut pattern folders are nice too.
 
Every kid that age loves a Victorinox, I know I did.

I would highly recommend a Victorinox Pioneer, or if he is a Scout then the saw on the Farmer is worth the extra layer.

If you want a classic red handled model the Tinker is a personal favorite of mine. The Hiker adds the saw and is a great model also.

I always have a Tinker or a Farmer in my pocket. I may or may also be carrying a locking folder, but one if those is carried 24/7.
 
All good suggestions so far, thanks everyone. I do like the idea of a traditional just to help him respect knives. But if I were to get him a folding blade, It would be something on the budget side of things. I think the spyderco tenacious or persistence might be a little bit to big, he isn't the largest kid. Keep em coming.
 
I agree with a Barlow. I still have my first one. It's such an iconic pattern. You can pick the maker. I'm sure there's one at your price point.
 
May I suggest a Spyderco Dragonfly. Ideal for kids and many colors to choose from.
SPYDERCO%20DRAGONFLY.jpg
 
I agree it should be slipjoint/traditional. SAK is always a solid choice. Have his name engraved on the handle too.
 
collim1 said:
Every kid that age loves a Victorinox, I know I did.

I would highly recommend a Victorinox Pioneer, or if he is a Scout then the saw on the Farmer is worth the extra layer.
Click to expand...

I have a feeling it's been a long time since you were that age, lol. :D At 13, most kids I've ever met would like a PM2 over any SAK. When I was that age, the SAK was for 'old people,' 'nerds' and 'little kids.' I've never owned one, nor have I ever wanted to own one. I also don't know anyone who owned/carried one on a regular basis. This website is/was shocking when I first joined and was exposed to the SAK obsession. :D

I'd get him a RAT 2 or Persistence. I think he'd be much happier with one of those over a SAK. I would be. Delica and Dragonfly are good other choices. Even the Skyline might be a good one.
 
I gave my little sister a Kershaw oso sweet.. Not traditional in any way, but great blade shape, easy to carry and assisted opening makes a fun first blade. Also the lesser steel will help learning to sharpen and maintaining the edge (stropping the blade).
 
I agree with vanslem here. At 13, I never wanted an SAK for that reason.

As for my suggestion, it all depends on how things seem to stay in his pocket. If things seem to climb out of his pocket, and walk away, I would suggest a small folder with clip. If things seem to stay well, a traditional would be the way to go.

Of course, check and make sure your parents are comfortable with having the knife you choose.
 
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