ZT 0550 but, which Gen?

Pokerface

Pokerface

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Aug 1, 2011
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The search function didn't turn out what I was looking for, so here goes:


I'm looking to pull the trigger on a ZT 0550 and have the option to get a Gen2 or Gen3 and can't decide if I even need the steel lock bar insert? I know the price difference is minimal, but I just bought tires for my truck yesterday and I'm looking to get some fog lights pretty soon…so if the lock bar is unnecessary, I'd rather skip on it and save a few bucks.


Also, I've got a Benchmade Barrage 581 and on paper, it looks like the 0550 is slightly smaller (but a tad heavier) than the Barrage, is that the case? The Barrage is probably at the upper echelon of what I want in my pocket.


Thanks for any help and Happy New Year!
 
I've got a gen 2 and I wouldn't trade it for a gen 3 straight up. No particular reason why, I'm just in love with my Gen 2 and wouldn't trade it. If the money matters to you, go with the Gen 2. I have had mine for several years now and have used it extensively without issue.
 
I have the 0550 w/insert and one without,I had problems with my insert that I had to send back to zt ,they fixed it but it's still tough to deploy,but hey I really like this knife.
as far as weight goes, it is a tad heavy for the pocket but it is carryable and it really is a small beast, after all zt 's are supposed to be hard use knives.
On a side note they have lots of handle and accessory options so you can change it up if thats your thing
 
If you can get a 3rd gen, but don't let that stop you from getting a 2nd gen if the price is right. I have both, both are very smooth, fire open easily and drop on their own weight. Personally, I would suggest the 3rd gen since it has the steel lock bar insert to prevent lock stick. But then again if it was between a 0550BW and a regular standard 0550 Gen 3, I would choose the 0550BW (blackwash) every time just because it looks great.

1st gen 0550 is not bad either if you can pick it up for under $100, they typically are not as smooth and lil harder to open and do not offer the factory deep carry clip since they use the older pocket clip design.
 
I've owned all 3 and the last one I kept was the first gen. I could care less about the deep carry pocket clip or not and I honestly don't care much if it has the steel insert on the lock bar. I used my first gen pretty good and I did not experience any trouble from it.

In my opinion I would recommend getting the color combo that you like and if you really feel you need the insert then go ahead and find a 3rd gen. Is it needed, no not in my opinion but if it makes you sleep better at night then who am I to judge!

Good luck with your decision!
 
Thanks bad_juju. I'm looking into a black blade, and I was torn between the 2nd and the 3rd...just didn't know if that steel insert was a big plus.
 
Kershaw guy has Gen 2 and 3 BLK. I have both. I prefer the 3. The feel fits me better and is just a better machine. The 2 feels 'blockier'. Just my 2cents. Both are awesome.
 
I have the 3rd Gen and it's probably a knife I'll never get rid of. One of the smoothest firing knives I've ever owned. The blade literally flys out. Ive never had the 1st or 2nd so i can't comment. I do have both the mini and regular barrage. Some will disagree I'm sure but to me the 550 is a much nicer heavier duty knife.

Mike
 
Thanks Mike...the price difference is about $35, (I don't know why I kept telling myself it was $15). With that difference, I may just pull the trigger on the 2nd. 3rd? 2nd? I don't even know now.
 
Just to let everyone know, Anaries PM'd me and offered to show me his Gen2 and Gen3 before I placed my order for a ZT. I met with him today with the intention of picking his brain, and I received not only a wealth of information, but a lightly used ZT...gifted!

Members like him are the reason that Bladeforums is such a great place.

I may pick up a Ritter Grip with M390 down the line, but for now, I've placed my order for a Gen3 0550blk! :D
 
Not a big deal. Enjoy that customer service from Dave.

Sweet Benchmade BTW!
 
Not to steal the thread, but I'm looking for a ZT0550 in black if anyone has one up for sale. Prefer the Gen3 but Gen2 is ok.
 
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