knives work and carry.

[Katodog]

The problem with those counterfeit knives is the unknown blade steel. I see no point in having a knife that won't hold a keen edge.

If you like the Hinderer design, get one from his collaboration with Kershaw/Zero Tolerance:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008KOFDEG/?tag=atomicindus08-20

I have the ZT0561 and it is exceptional is every way EXCEPT it is a tad heavy. While the titanium keeps the weight to around 5 oz, it's still more than I care to carry on a hot day. The Elmax blade is awesome, and since it rides on ball bearings it opens with ease.

I don't have the loose money anymore to be using expensive knives at work. The priciest one I used was a Spyderco Police model, anything worth more than that stays in the collection looking pretty, where they belong. Well, that's not totally true, I carried a Protech Brend Model 1 for a while, but couldn't keep using it because my brain kept screaming "you're doing WHAT with that beautiful, expensive, knife?!?!". Had to put it away. I was recently carrying one of my Microtech Scarabs, and it held up pretty good to what I threw at it, but with the new job I didn't want to be walking around with an OTF, I know sooner or later someone would ***** about it so I figured I'd go back to regular manual knives for a while. I had a cheap Home Depot Coast knife in my pocket, I took it out and opened it, the idiot next to me said "Oh, you have a switchblade!". I had to groan in my head and then explain to him how a knife works. Didn't have anything around the house cheap enough to use and wasn't going to go take a nice knife out of the collection, so I figured I'd try one of these clones out. I can't spend $200 on work knives anymore, if I spend that kind of money on knives these days it's for case queens, I'd never put them through what I put work knives through, even though they're built for it.


All joking aside though, steel on the clones...well, if they can slap maker's names on them then they can probably stamp whatever they want on the blade and you wouldn't know. Even if someone gave you a straight honest answer about what they're made of, you still couldn't trust them. This one says "CTS_/HP" which is probably a mistake on purpose so they can say "Hey, we never said it was CTS_XHP" so what can you do...

I'm gonna use this and see how it holds up, out of the box it has a nice clean edge. It'll take a paper test really nice, but it won't shave clean on a single pass. I'm not touching the blade though until I can put it through some work, see how it does. I want to see how long the factory edge holds up, then give it a good sharpening and see how long that lasts. I might give it a rub on some cardboard here and there to keep the edge clean but I won't sharpen it until I know it needs it. Which could be quick with some of the tortures I put a blade through.

I say that clones have their place, but I'll also say that the makers need to figure out how to stop these companies from stamping their names on the clones. Will it stop me from buying them from time to time? Nope, I'm not invested in any "don't buy clones" fights, don't really care. I'm taking his name off of this one somehow, but it's not something that's gonna make me stop buying. I'm not all gung-ho about it like that.

 

[exmaxima1]

I say that clones have their place, but I'll also say that the makers need to figure out how to stop these companies from stamping their names on the clones. Will it stop me from buying them from time to time? Nope, I'm not invested in any "don't buy clones" fights, don't really care. I'm taking his name off of this one somehow, but it's not something that's gonna make me stop buying. I'm not all gung-ho about it like that.

I honestly can't see where "clones have their place". Hinderer spent a large chunk of his life developing his design and increasing its value. To have it all exploited, with no monetary gain to him, by Chinese companies is shameful. The makers spent huge $$$ to get patent protection, but counterfeits still get shipped here---it's up to the buyers to STOP BUYING them.


Same way with Rolex copies---if it says "Rolex" and it ain't, it has no reason to exist.

 

[RedneckWelder]

Copies/clones- I buy my knives new from reputable retailers. I hate clones. I could care less if they produced a copy of the knife that didn't have the markings and such but when they clone it down to the markings it's being done solely to deceive the buyer. Just like the fuckers who clone Eotechs and Aimpoint red dot sights.

 

[nesw20]

i picked up one of these CRKTs from a gun show recently and have been very pleased with it: http://www.crkt.com/6602N

 

[ttpete]

For a working knife, a Klein electrician's jackknife, the kind with a usable screwdriver blade. If you were in the military, it's better known as a TL-29.

I always have a couple of Stanley knives in the toolbox.

For a pocket knife, a Puma General folder.

 

[Nanashi]

My work knife is the CRKT m16. That was a $40 knife no big deal. I ended up biting the bullet on the Benchmade triage 915bk-org, this will be my EDC knife. Is got the carbide windows breaker, hook for cutting seatbelts and a nice blade. Call it a mall ninja knife or even over kill buy it's mine now lol. I don't collect knives I just wanted one good one to EDC and it had to be useful. It's not a stabber but it will get me out of a jam.

Thanks for posting all the options guys. I don't know knives so I wanted to see some good options.

 

[nicksnothereman]

My work knife is the CRKT m16. That was a $40 knife no big deal. I ended up biting the bullet on the Benchmade triage 915bk-org, this will be my EDC knife. Is got the carbide windows breaker, hook for cutting seatbelts and a nice blade. Call it a mall ninja knife or even over kill buy it's mine now lol. I don't collect knives I just wanted one good one to EDC and it had to be useful. It's not a stabber but it will get me out of a jam.

Thanks for posting all the options guys. I don't know knives so I wanted to see some good options.

They used to make bayonets out of steel that really couldn't be sharpened (too soft) and was fairly dull because it does more damage to a human. If that's what you mean.

Why are you concerned about "stabbing"?

 

[Givl Reggin]

Why are you concerned about "stabbing"?

I was never a boy scout, but I think it falls into the category of "always be prepared."

 

[Southern]

The chatter around here with the justifications for buying knock-offs and clones makes me sick. Where in the hell are the principles anymore?

I feel like I'm taking crazy pills.

 

[Muffduster]

Why are you concerned about "stabbing"?

Going out on a limb here, but I believe he's talking self defense.

 

[Katodog]

The chatter around here with the justifications for buying knock-offs and clones makes me sick. Where in the hell are the principles anymore?

I feel like I'm taking crazy pills.

Well then, just pretend like you didn't hear it and everything will be just fine.


Opinions ***** sometimes, I know I have a lot of opinions that are off-the-wall and generally ****, but that's me, and I won't change for anybody for any reason. It's up to me to be me, it's not anybody else's job to make me be someone else. I don't harass people about their opinions, and while I entertain good healthy discussion (which might make me change an opinion or two, who knows), I don't expect people to hold any ill regard towards me for having an opinion.



On a side note, I tried to wire-wheel the name off, the "color" came off but you can still see the name. It looks faded but it's still there. Anybody have any other ideas on how to get rid of it?

 

[exmaxima1]

For a pocket knife, a Puma General folder.

40 years ago Puma made great knives and used decent blade steel. But a new General Folder costs $130, and uses the cheapest grade 440A steel----too many better options.

 

[Nanashi]

They used to make bayonets out of steel that really couldn't be sharpened (too soft) and was fairly dull because it does more damage to a human. If that's what you mean.

Why are you concerned about "stabbing"?

I am not concerned with stabbing the knife has an almost blunt tip. I was more concerned with it's other features. The knife has some great features making me somewhat prepared for other situations. This isn't being carried for self defence. However I am totally for people carrying guns or knives as long as they follow the rules and train with that weapon.

 

[exmaxima1]

Well then, just pretend like you didn't hear it and everything will be just fine.

I just noticed you live in Carol Stream. I lived there for 20 years before moving to St Charles. My neighbor's son (maybe 21 years old) used to clean his AK-47 on the front step while children played on the sidewalk and didn't think anything of it. The last straw for me was when he shot out the rear window of my car with a pellet gun and wouldn't take any responsibility for paying for it (his father finally did). Very diverse population ......

 

[franzdom]

...
On a side note, I tried to wire-wheel the name off, the "color" came off but you can still see the name. It looks faded but it's still there. Anybody have any other ideas on how to get rid of it?

Yeah, throw it in the trash

 

[CalsXS2]

Here's one I really like. But it is not narrow

I did a little review on the Kershaw Tension.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/cAXMOkiIyXk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

 

[b-body-bob]

I've got a Schrade belt knife that I bought off the Snap-On man back when I worked with my hands for a living in the late 70s. I think it's a Bear Claw. I forgot all about it until a short time ago when I found it stashed away in a box. The thing is made out of the good stuff so it weighs a ton. I thought it might be worth something but apparently not according to ebay, so I just hid it from myself again.

 

[Katodog]

Yeah, throw it in the trash

Okay, done. Any suggestions on a new knife, since I threw this one in the garbage?

 

[franzdom]

Seriously? good for you if you did that... I would save for a nice Benchmade if you can consider something like that, or a Kershaw, those are awesome for the money. Yes, a Kershaw Leek is a great knife and much better karma too!

 

[Katodog]

I have a collection full of knives, not gonna use them for work. Don't give a **** about karma either.

I've got a Schrade belt knife that I bought off the Snap-On man back when I worked with my hands for a living in the late 70s. I think it's a Bear Claw. I forgot all about it until a short time ago when I found it stashed away in a box. The thing is made out of the good stuff so it weighs a ton. I thought it might be worth something but apparently not according to ebay, so I just hid it from myself again.

One of the best knives I ever used was a Schrade LB_8 Uncle Henry...loved it so much I owned 2 of them. First one I snapped the tip off, re-ground the blade and it lasted until I gave it to my dad. Second one sadly got lost. Might buy one, I see them on eBay once in a while, would be nice to have one again.

Schrade isn't what they used to be, I steer clear of their stuff these days

 

[ttpete]

40 years ago Puma made great knives and used decent blade steel. But a new General Folder costs $130, and uses the cheapest grade 440A steel----too many better options.

It's an old timer, I've had it that long. It doesn't see much use now since I retired. Once I was able to have a carry license, it became a backup. I like it because I've worked it over to where it's slick enough to easily thumb it open with one hand.

I never got fixated on fancy alloys because I like to be able to easily resharpen when I want without having to use something like a diamond hone. Almost all of my cutlery is for use, not show. I have an early Randall Model 1 in carbon steel, and I prefer it to a stainless one. It just takes a little maintenance once in awhile to keep it bright.

 

[Logan W]

Benchmade 940 for me. Never leaves my pocket!

 

[SuperSheep]

This is what I carry around everyday. Whatever floats your boat I suppose.

 

[aaronrkelly]

I probably have over a dozen fairly expensive, higher end knifes.....but the ones I carry the most are plain and boring.

This is the most unobtrusive and handy knife Ive owned to date, the SOG Slim Jim. When Im wanting to go light I carry this.

Most of the time I just hang a fixed blade from my belt......either the SOG Seal Pup

or Gerber LMFII

If Ive got more pocket room but dont want to wear a fixed blade I carry either a

Benchmade 3550 Mel Pardue automatic

or a H&K (made by Benchamde) Epidemic 14850 out the front auto

 

[Canoe50]

I have a collection full of knives, not gonna use them for work. Don't give a **** about karma either.







One of the best knives I ever used was a Schrade LB_8 Uncle Henry...loved it so much I owned 2 of them. First one I snapped the tip off, re-ground the blade and it lasted until I gave it to my dad. Second one sadly got lost. Might buy one, I see them on eBay once in a while, would be nice to have one again.

Schrade isn't what they used to be, I steer clear of their stuff these days

I have a couple of the LB 7s & yes, they are very nice. Right up there with Buck's 110. I have a earlier one (probably early to mid 80s) when Schrade used to engrave a serial # on the brass bolster.
You're right, Schrade quality isn't the same these days as their plant closed it doors some years ago. Now they're made in China.....'nuff said.
I just picked up another very nice used LB 7 in the leather sheath for $35 a couple weeks ago. Fortunately, it's still pretty easy to find the USA versions on most models.

 

[exmaxima1]

I never got fixated on fancy alloys because I like to be able to easily resharpen when I want without having to use something like a diamond hone. Almost all of my cutlery is for use, not show.

I think you missed my point. I was commenting that for that considerable outlay of cash, you should expect something better than 440A.

Sure, 440A is fine for a Swiss Army Knife---but it doesn't cost $130. If all I wanted to do was clean my fingernails or the gasket off an oil pan, then I would be happy with 440A. But I use a knife about 50 times a day while in the shop, and I need a sharp edge for many tasks---I would be sharpening a SAK every day. A $40 US-made Kershaw with Sandvik blade is worlds better than 440A. The better steels hold up much better, and I can go a few weeks on a knife before sharpening (I usually wait until I have at least 4 knives that need sharpening before I pull out the sharpening supplies). S30V is decent (though it tends to chip), and ZDP-189 is probably twice as good as S30V in my experience.

And speaking of that---what's the problem with "having to use a diamond hone"? They cost less than $10 and are FAR more efficient than stones:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000TY15AQ/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Once you try diamond (at least for utility grade knives) you will never use the old oil stones. A few quick passes with diamond, then a pass on the buffing wheel, and you have a fresh edge.

 

[ttpete]

I think you missed my point. I was commenting that for that considerable outlay of cash, you should expect something better than 440A.

Sure, 440A is fine for a Swiss Army Knife---but it doesn't cost $130. If all I wanted to do was clean my fingernails or the gasket off an oil pan, then I would be happy with 440A. But I use a knife about 50 times a day while in the shop, and I need a sharp edge for many tasks---I would be sharpening a SAK every day. A $40 US-made Kershaw with Sandvik blade is worlds better than 440A. The better steels hold up much better, and I can go a few weeks on a knife before sharpening (I usually wait until I have at least 4 knives that need sharpening before I pull out the sharpening supplies). S30V is decent (though it tends to chip), and ZDP-189 is probably twice as good as S30V in my experience.

And speaking of that---what's the problem with "having to use a diamond hone"? They cost less than $10 and are FAR more efficient than stones:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000TY15AQ/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Once you try diamond (at least for utility grade knives) you will never use the old oil stones. A few quick passes with diamond, then a pass on the buffing wheel, and you have a fresh edge.

It didn't cost $130 forty years ago. And I don't mind touching it up once in awhile, only takes ten minutes. I'm retired and have plenty of time. Ever work in food prep? I have. You learn how to put an edge on quickly and accurately. I still have my knives from that, and my favorite is an old carbon steel Sabatier chef's knife.

 

[lowbucktruck]

I've got a Schrade belt knife that I bought off the Snap-On man back when I worked with my hands for a living in the late 70s. I think it's a Bear Claw. I forgot all about it until a short time ago when I found it stashed away in a box. The thing is made out of the good stuff so it weighs a ton. I thought it might be worth something but apparently not according to ebay, so I just hid it from myself again.

The "new" Schrade is just the name owned by another offshore company and made overseas. The original Schrade Cutlery closed its doors after 100 years (like some of our favorite vintage tool manufacturers) and the name is now owned by Taylor Brands, same outfit that makes the Smith and Wesson knives.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schrade_Cutlery

I own several of the original Schrade knives and you can tell the difference in the steel and quality of manufacture.

 

[Givl Reggin]

The kershaws are more expensive, that is the only reason I don't carry one everyday.

Lowes now is carrying the Kershaw Scallion, made in USA for only $50 bucks... I bought the only two they had in stock. Now, they could have been carrying these for quite a while, but last time I looked at their selection of pocket knives they didn't have any Kershaw models. The Scallion is a bit smaller than the Leek but fits entirely in the watch pocket which the Leek doesn't and that's where I like to carry a pocket knife instead of deep in the pocket where they get scuffed from coins and keys, etc.

 

[Fcvapor05]

Kershaw Leek. In my opinion, the best knife made in terms of what you get for the price. There's certainly knives available that look fancier or have 'better' steel blades, but the blade shape is perfect in my opinion, and the speedsafe system can't be beat. My EDC knife is the olive scale version with an S30V blade. The second stays in my desk at work for opening boxes or whatever- G10 scales with Sandvik 14C28N, DLC coated. It's also narrow (the aluminum scale version at least) so it's low profile in my pocket. Love these knives.

 

[gipraw]

I carry a a Microtech UDT. They are a very good USA made knife, but not the cheapest around.

I also have quite a few Kershaws that stay in my various vehicles and toolboxes.

 

[chris_1001]

a few of mine, the Spyderco and Microtech are my usual carry knives. The Black ZT is my car knife and the other is a safe queen

 

[techenthusiast]

This is what I carry at work every day in a holster (different brand) and then I have a leek at home.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Pointbock]

Benchmade for me - I carry a 705. I'm left-handed, hate liner-locks, and prefer a US-made knife - so Benchmade Axis-lock knives are the only ones I've found that allow left side tip-up carry with a lefty friendly lock.

I have an HK and a Lone Wolf, too (both made in the US by Benchmade.)

For a new edc, I'd pick the 707 Sequel or a mini-Griptilian.

For fixed blades, I like some of the Bark River options (S35,) Helle triple laminates (Norway,) and I recently picked up a Kershaw with one of the Sandvik steels. I'd love a Gene Ingram, Charles May, or Jason Fry, too.

 

[Steinmetz]

On my belt everyday of my life. I've worn it to weddings. In my mind, the perfect working man's knife. I don't really consider it a knife, its a tool.

Try telling them that at the airport.

 

[motoretro]

I carry a old school basic (2) blade Kabar, carbon steel blades which seem to really hold an edge. My junk yard knife is a old locking blade Kershaw which I found in a..... Junk yard! Tip was broke off so I re-contoured it, sharpened it and have used for 10 years. Bright orange handle usually keeps it in my toolbox.
Motoretro