ZT 0808 or 0450?

Knave

Knave

Joined
Dec 29, 1999
Messages
796
Greetings, all. I'm currently looking at smaller titanium framelocks and have narrowed it down to a handful, including the ZT 0808 and 0450. I have to say that I prefer the design and looks of the 0808, but it's a bit bigger and around half again as heavy as the 0450. I'd mostly be carrying in khakis or dress pants, so the weight might be a factor. Of course, they're both significantly more carry-friendly than my only other ZT, an 0801, so either would be an improvement. So... for those of you who have, or have handled, both, what are your thoughts and preference? This is all assuming I don't bite the bullet and just get a plain-jane small Sebenza, of course. ;) Thanks.

Edited to mention that I do not like the 0450CF, or other knives with combination scales. I'm not a huge fan of black blades, and I prefer that both presentation and lock scales be titanium. However, I appreciate the input.

Chris
 
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I've owned both and on paper the 808 is bigger and heavier than the 450 but that difference is hard to realize until you get both in hand. The 808 is significantly more clunky and awkward in hand than the 450. I loved the 450, I only sold it to fund a large Sebenza. I miss it though. I definitely don't regret giving it up for the CRK though. The next time I run across a good deal on a 450 I'll pick it up.


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Yeah, I know what you're saying. I've got an inlay 21, but just can't bring myself to carry it. :-)
 
Flipping my 0450CF now, it's such a smooth little knife. Never handled the 0808.
 
I owned a 0450 and sold it because it was too small for my big hands. Then I bought an 0808 and I love it. I think if you have large hands it's hard to get a good grip where the pinky finger is not right on the top of the point on the 0450. It was also much harder for me to keep my finger off of the lock bar when trying to flip it. I can flip the 0808 all day long and have no problem keeping my finger off the lock bar. The 0808 is perfect for me. Love it.
 
I think they are both excellent knives for different reasons. For a collector, I think the ZT0808 will have an edge (no pun intended) over the ZT0450 for its unique lines. Though the small Sinkevich is a more practical EDC than the Rexford due solely to its lower weight and bulk.


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I have both but couldn't imagine life without my 808. if it is to heavy for you buy the after market standoffs.
 
I have owned both. I like the 0450 more due to the slimmer profile and lighter weight. The handle on the 0808 is IMO fat for the size which bumps up the weight. My biggers complaint with the 0808 is that I found the flipper tab to be slippery compared to the 0450.
 
So, it sounds like people like the lines of the 0808 more (and I agree), but the 0450 is an easier carry. Not surprising, given their specs. One more question, if you don't mind: I keep reading that these smaller ZTs can be difficult to flip because of accidental pressure on the lockbar. Is one more prone to it than the other? Thanks.


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Knave said:
So, it sounds like people like the lines of the 0808 more (and I agree), but the 0450 is an easier carry. Not surprising, given their specs. One more question, if you don't mind: I keep reading that these smaller ZTs can be difficult to flip because of accidental pressure on the lockbar. Is one more prone to it than the other? Thanks.


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I have never had a problem flipping either or any of the small knives. With the smaller knife my fingers go straight to the base of the knife which is perfect for slipping. The bigger knives seem to be where we have customers have accidental pressure applied.

As for your original question. I like the 808 more but I like heavier knives. For customers coming in the shop and holding/seeing the 450, 450CF and 808 for the first time, the 0450CF seems to be the one that is bought the most. Hope that helps somehow!
 
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