ZT JB2 Shroud Cutter

[PropThePolecat]

Ive been looking for a rescue hook with a carbide glass breaker. Only one i found was the Leatherman Z-Rex, which was a nice tool, but i found it too big for belt carry. So in the end i stuck with my Benchmade 5 Hook.

I did notice the ZT JB2 during my search, but i completely missed the fact, that its got a carbide glass breaker. So now that i know, ive been checking out images on the net. There's not much info to be found about it.

Firstly, it does not show on ZT's site or 2013 catalog. Is that because its been discontinued?

Second, the fact that its got a 270° cutting edge appears to be its strong selling point, but looking at the cutting edge, i cant help wondering how i would go around sharpening it?

Ive got some Spyderco ceramic rods, but with that circular shape, i cant see how i would be able to sharpen it, except for the edge opposite the opening notch?

Its quite expensive compared to other hooks, so i'd like to be able to sharpen it, instead of being stuck with a dull hook after a couple of months use.

Any tips, advice or even reviews out there?

As you can see, this type edge shape is a breeze to sharpen:

 

[RamZar]

Have you looked at the Kershaw FUNXION EMT. I have one and it's pretty handy for $30.

http://kershaw.kaiusaltd.com/knives/knife/funxion-emt

The partially serrated blade can cut through webbing to free trapped accident victims.
The cord cutter makes quick work of nylon chording.
There's a hex bolt wrench and a screwdriver tip built into the cord cutter arm.
A carbide glassbreaker tip can help get you out of a tough situation.

 

[JuJu-]

Prop, JimW451 I believe has a few of these contact him or maybe he will pop his head in and give you some info.
And yes the JB was discontinued.

 

[jimw451]

That's weird. I was about to offload mine in a sale thread but checked this forum first haha. Very cool tool and very functional but I see where you are coming from with the sharpening concerns. Other than maintaining the non-beveled side to keep it flat and hand sharpening, I'm sure ZT will sharpen them or of course has a tool in house to sharpen with, but I don't know if that tool or attachment can be purchased anywhere. I've never really considered it since I can't think of everyday uses for myself to the point where I would dull it often, but you may have a different situation. My local knife store guy looked at them and offered to sharpen if ever needed, so he was cool about it but hey, he's a nice guy anyway.

 

[PropThePolecat]

Thanks, i figured they were discontinued.

I found them on ebay at a good price, so i got 2. I'll figure out the sharpening, when i get there.

RamZar: Nice knife, but ive already got a Triage. How do you like yours?

 

[PropThePolecat]

That's weird. I was about to offload mine in a sale thread but checked this forum first haha. Very cool tool and very functional but I see where you are coming from with the sharpening concerns. Other than maintaining the non-beveled side to keep it flat and hand sharpening, I'm sure ZT will sharpen them or of course has a tool in house to sharpen with, but I don't know if that tool or attachment can be purchased anywhere. I've never really considered it since I can't think of everyday uses for myself to the point where I would dull it often, but you may have a different situation. My local knife store guy looked at them and offered to sharpen if ever needed, so he was cool about it but hey, he's a nice guy anyway.

That was nice of the store owner. Anyway, I got some pretty good tips on how to sharpen it over at britishblades.com

Too bad i didnt know about you selling yours. Good luck with the sale.

 

[RamZar]

RamZar: Nice knife, but ive already got a Triage. How do you like yours?

I really like it and prefer partially serrated blade. I think Kershaw has a big winner. It has all of the functionality of the Benchmade 915 Triage plus a few others. Thicker than the Benchmade. The kicker is that you can buy four of the Funxion EMT for one of the Triage!