Recommendation? ZT 0808 vs Spyderco Mantra/Mantra 2.

[hhmoore]

The 808 flips so much better than the Mantra. The Mantra's action let me down. The 808's felt like precision clock work, a unique feeling I've never found in another flipper.

Interesting... but I can't say that I share your viewpoint. The detent on mine, as I mentioned previously, is a bit stiff; and the blade will occasionally fail to fully deploy/ lock, regardless of whether I'm using the light switch or push button technique. There's still a somewhat gritty feel to it, despite flushing it out well (though, it IS much better than it used to be).
The Mantra 2 has a much lighter detent, which was important to me because it will be easier for the intended recipient. It did get it to misfire a couple of times using a "light switch" flick; but it's great when using the "push button" method (which I already expected would be the best option). Even in my hands (my left hand isn't very smart, and my right hand is currently injured) it's surprising easy to use for a small knife. I'm sending it out for a new color (Cerakote) this week.

 

[K.O.D.]

Well it came today and I love it. Only wish it wasn't black. First time I flipped it my ring left a small scratch.

I wonder if the screws (other than the pivot) can be stripped of the black and ano'd green like the standoff.

Otherwise, it's a keeper.

 

[RemyKaze]

Well it came today and I love it. Only wish it wasn't black. First time I flipped it my ring left a small scratch.

I wonder if the screws (other than the pivot) can be stripped of the black and ano'd green like the standoff.

Otherwise, it's a keeper.

I debated between that and the blackwash, but I knew I wouldn't necessarily need something like s90v, and blackwash hides scratches so well. You could always get someone to do a stonewash on it to get the same effect. If that's your interest. Glad you like it.

 

[barmettlerjosh]

I love how one of your stipulations is F*** you Benchmade.

 

[K.O.D.]

I have heard the Mantra knives have cupped washers that cause issues on some knives. Probably better to handle them in person. Both would be great for slicing, with a much better steel in my opinion. Mantra 2 seems like a more pocket friendly and fluid design.

The only ZT designs I will carry are under .120 or 3mm blade thickness. The 808 is pretty thick at .160/4mm. Kinda beefy for a mid size knife. Not sure if that's what you prefer but I personally dropped an 0452cf because it had the same thickness which I feel only works with a full flat grind.

For me the most attractive is the Gemini, because it's thin, simple, and intuitive. The 808 is kind of a workhorse similar to the 801 in purpose. The two Mantra knives look somewhat weird but if you can score a good one they would probably be great in pocket. Spyderco still seems to be trying to get the hang of flippers.

I would like to recommend another option, the 0095. S35vn, midsize, bearings, flipper, thinner but wide blade shape reminiscent of the Link/770/777/Knockout. Super comfortable in the hand.

Sorry for the book, and good luck.

I struggle to appreciate small knives, myself...but the 0808 is comfortable in pocket AND in hand. The detent is a bit stiff; but not enough to bother me. I rarely carry it due to the size; but I do like it.
Mantra 1 - not my style; so I won't comment.
Mantra 2 - I actually like the way this one looks, and I am a fan of CPM-M4....that's all I can say until mine arrives on Thursday.
Kizer Gemini - I sort of like the look; but not enough so to take the risk. I have also seen some negative comments about the action.

As far as the ZT 0095 suggested above - it's a bit larger than you're looking for; but, if you can get past that, its a good knife.
For that matter, I like the the Advocate. It was a bit gritty feeling at first; but I flushed it out good & it's been better. I bought mine soon after the model was released - and started seeing complaints about the bearings/washers shortly after I received it. I've noticed no signs of any problems (it does have a slight rattle at the lanyard tube)...but I haven't disassembled the knife, either. If there is any issue, I'll send it back to Spyderco, rather than open it up myself. Slim in the pocket, comfortable in hand, and ffg m4.

ZT 0456 - my only problem with this knife is the small blade length. Some people complain about the bulk; but that's one of the things I like about it - it is big enough to feel good in hand, despite its short handle. It's worth a look, IMO.

I'll update this post with my impressions about the Mantra 2

I just wanted to thank y'all for the 0095 recommendation. Sharpest production knife I've ever owned. Already cut myself. While the all black color isn't my forte, the S90V was worth it. Besides, black knives matter, so I figured I should have at least one.

My only gripe is that that there is more space for disengaging the lockbar, and that lockbar is rather stiff, but is breaking in a little.

Thanks again!

 

[RemyKaze]

I just wanted to thank y'all for the 0095 recommendation. Sharpest production knife I've ever owned. Already cut myself. While the all black color isn't my forte, the S90V was worth it. Besides, black knives matter, so I figured I should have at least one.

My only gripe is that that there is more space for disengaging the lockbar, and that lockbar is rather stiff, but is breaking in a little.

Thanks again!

Took a minute to break mine in. It ended up being as smooth as any ZT. Moving the clip slightly helped with my lockbar, as well as leaving it halfway open, and use of course. Angled handle vs straight clip is kinda odd. Enjoy!