ZT0550(S35VN) vs ZT0350(ZDP189) for light EDC

[Sonnydaze]

Would appreciate some help on this one. My ZT 0550 is very nice, very smooth, centered blade, locks up great, but is a bit larger than I like for EDC. I'm carrying my Umnumzaan right now, which is a thinner knife, easier to carry; very comfortable.
I have been considering the ZT 0350 which has a thinner blade, thinner handle width, and generally a cheaper, smaller knife.
I just became aware that the 0350 was produced in limited numbers in ZDP189. They're hard to find, and expensive if you do. Would this knife in the ZDP steel be worth going after, to replace my 0550? These ZDP's are running $250 or more, when you do find one. I do take pride in carrying nice steels, even though I barely use them. My EDC knives see light duty only.
Thanks, Sonny

 

[mkjellgren]

I wouldn't exactly call the 0350 a light edc. It's fairly short blade length might lead one to believe it's a small knife, but in reality there isn't much small about it. It's pretty wide for front pocket carry (works great for back pocket though) and it's not exactly a light weight.

In terms of the zdp version, I personally don't think it's worth the $250. The 0350 is a GREAT $100-120 knife, but you can do better for $250.

If what you want is a more pocketable zt, I'd keep an eye open for the 0780.

 

[larryis1]

Just ordered a special edition ZT350 with a S30v stone washed blade from Blade HQs at a favorable price. There is a thread here at the forum about this offer. You may wish to consider.

 

[ShooterMike66]

I own a ZT 0350 in ZDP 189, and it is still quite a large knife. I would describe it as the love child of a ZT 0300 and Kershaw Ram. It is about the same size as my PM2, but almost double the weight. As for EDC, I have never carried this knife (or used it). I wear a suit everyday, so I prefer something smaller.

 

[solidorange]

here are some quick comparison shots. i carry them equally and really don't notice any difference in the pocket. they are almost the exact same length closed (the 0550 is 0.05 cm longer according to KAI) and have only 0.2 oz separating them in weight. the 0550 is slightly thicker, but i am willing to pay that price for an extra 1/4 inch of blade length. all in all, if you think the 0550 is too bulky, i can't really recommend a 0350. i personally love them both, but to each their own.

 

[Cynic2701]

Why not give the new Spyderco CF/ZDP-189 Caly 3.5 a try? I think they are shipping now, but I could be wrong.

 

[Sonnydaze]

Thank you, folks, for real-world comparison and side-by-side pix. I was thinking that the 350 was quite a bit smaller than my 550. It apparently is not. I think I'll hold onto my 550, even though I don't carry it. I am a large fan of PM2's and they carry like a dream and have a great compression lock.
Sonny

 

[JBK2596]

here are some quick comparison shots. i carry them equally and really don't notice any difference in the pocket. they are almost the exact same length closed (the 0550 is 0.05 cm longer according to KAI) and have only 0.2 oz separating them in weight. the 0550 is slightly thicker, but i am willing to pay that price for an extra 1/4 inch of blade length. all in all, if you think the 0550 is too bulky, i can't really recommend a 0350. i personally love them both, but to each their own.

are those the frag scales?:thumbup:

 

[solidorange]

are those the frag scales?:thumbup:

the ones on the 0550 are. i am actually sad that they are back in stock now, i liked being one of the few who had one from the original run.

 

[Sonnydaze]

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