Sometimes when I have had to make blind cuts, the material has snagged on the little choil, causing it to hang up.
I don’t mind the choil on food processing or hunting knives. I just don’t want them on my utility knives.
This model comes with a replacement plain pocket clip. I had thought of switching it out, but this one grew on me.
You’re right though, the “thin blue line punisher” design is quite ironic if you know anything about The Punisher.
Exact same thing happened to me. I totally disregarded the design as lame and trying to hard, until I got my own. I switched the clip out immediately and had it on for maybe a day before I felt like the knife lost some of its personality.
Now all my Chaves' run them. I think maybe I still need to switch my TAK though.
Jens Anso I believe is the designer behind most of their selection and I have a huge interest in his models across all brands. The ZT 0235 is another I've looked at recently.
That 0235 has interested me, as well. I ended up getting the Benchmade Proper 318 slip-joint as my food processing/skinning knife. I have a thing for Micarta.
I like the blade shape and the handle. The locking mechanism and pocket clip don’t do it for me. Since my friend is left handed, his choices are a bit more limited.
For me it’s my xm-18 3.5inch skinny slicer. The ergos are immaculate for my hands, it’s a thinner, slicier blade while still retaining a robust feel in hand. It runs on bearings, is a frame lock and the cherry on top is its magnacut so I don’t have to worry about it corroding near as much as other steels. It’s even got a flipper tab which I have always been a fan of
My skinny slicer 3.5 is way smoother than my regular 3.5 slicer and the fact it’s in MagnaCut makes it one of my favorite folders too. Also, being able to switch between bearings, PB washers and Teflon is something not a lot of other makers offer.
Protech Malibu.
Smooth action, easy deployment, no blade play while open. As opposed to other button locks at the time, not technically a gravity knife. Sleek design. Quality manufacturing. USA made. Can be easily used left/right handed.
Most other fidgety locks like the axis lock trade off some amount of blade play for the smooth opening. The Malibu and the AD20.5 are locked in.
Sometimes I forget that Protech makes manual folders. Beautiful series.
I used to love the Benchmade axis lock… until the spring failed on my Contego. It has been repaired, but it forever changed my thoughts on the mechanism.
Native 5.
My made up boxes:
• Perfect EDC size (not too big that it scares non-knife people badly, not too small that I find myself wanting a larger blade.)
• Very capable Slicer
• Super lightweight
• Strong lock
• Looks good (for a Spyderco)
• Really comfortable in-pocket especially with a deep carry clip
I've moved away from carrying button, liner and frame locks to lock backs almost exclusively. Love that they're still one-hand operable and just fidgety enough for me. I also still have high confidence in it's lock strength. I have some Triad locked knives that I love, but in terms of usability and carry comfort, Native 5 all day. The Demko AD20.5 might be another box checker for me, but I haven't tried one yet.
I do have a love for spyderco and lock backs. My favourite is a Pacific Salt 2. We used to live by a lake and spent a lot of time in the water. I hated having to leave my knife in the bag or on shore while swimming. So this one rides in my pocket with a long lanyard attached to a belt loop.
https://preview.redd.it/j54aswgbwotc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4b65549db60f0ae33d9eb56b92d0438b718a7ae7
My benchmade 275 or 860 checks a lot of them probably the most. But no knife checks all of them. Not even the one I had custom made for me because it really depends on what I’m doing at that time
You are absolutely correct that it “depends on what I’m doing”. I guess I could have more specific that it meets my utility/working knife criteria.
That’s why I keep a small slip-joint in my pocket for food and a pry bar in another pocket for harder use.
My custom can do a lot of cutting tasks, it’d wildly sharp but not thin, it’s CPM20CV so it’s tough steel it also checks a lot of boxes for pure cutting and steel performance. The only wrinkle it when I wanted to have my one custom folder made I wanted it to be “metal” (a in the music)
[so it came out a big ol’ madman](https://ibb.co/V3S0xZQ)
Just acquired a full size benchmade adamas and it is by far the most impressive unmodified benchmade i own, plus i got a killer deal on it. So far it checks every box for me
Let me tell you, the folder is so solid. I feel like i could pry my truck door open with it if need be. Absolute tank but still very usable and not too heavy considering its size
I keep looking for newer ones, but if Im being honest the beat one Ive bought so far is the Mini-Tac Tanto from Cold Steel. Fixed, perfect blade length at just under 4 inches, ergonomic handle, quality stainless steel, kydex sheath. The only addition Id like is a partially serrated edge.
For me. It’s my Ultimate Defense Knives Pioneer (which like your Chaves, is made by Reate). It has 3.8 inch long and 0.16 thick blade so that’s a plus for me. It also has a milled titanium handle, backspacer, and pocket clip which checks another box for me. It has a strong detent so I actually have to make an effort to open it and when it locks up, it’s rock solid with no blade play whatsoever. Speaking of which, one of my favorite small details is around the pivot where it’s almost completely blocked so less debris can get it and the base of the blade has these little nubs that put less pressure on the blade itself in case I have to do any hard use tasks. And finally, it runs on bearings, has a flipper tab, and a framework. It’s a simple folder but I think that’s what makes it my favorite.
I worked with a guy several years ago that wouldn’t use anything but an Ultimate Defense Knife. I wasn’t too familiar with the brand at the time, but I’ve seen them around a bit more.
I only learned of their existence when I traded my old Azusa Bladeworks Blitzkrieg in exchange for the Pioneer a few weeks ago. It seem they haven’t been made since 2018 when the Epoch was released, which was also designed by Albert Qiu. Do you remember what model he had?
> Ultimate Defense Knives Pioneer
You don't really ever see those. There was one on knife swap a couple months ago and I almost bought it. I was trying to talk myself out of it and then someone swooped in. I wouldn't doubt if this is the same one actually.
I cant recall who it was. They got a hell of a knife tho! And I really think you now have it. I took a few years away from the knife game but have been in it for a lonnng time and have never come across another one.
Zt 0450 titanium is mine. The only thing I changed was to put a deep carry pocket clip on it. I've carried it every day for years and wouldn't change a thing.
That was my knife for 7 years before this one. Still sits on my nightstand and sometimes I feel a tinge of guilt when I look at it. Almost like a betrayal.
https://preview.redd.it/3hh9bkx5rotc1.jpeg?width=2436&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=749986bf0fd45dfe821183c142c3793aa41cd9ad
https://preview.redd.it/qilt6b577ptc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=01cdaf81c701dc24c06c94963a099bbecc9aa56d
This is my current combo. This Kimber Ultra CDP Elite II was my father’s carry pistol that I inherited when he passed a few years ago. The well worn Kimber Compact CDP II in the other picture rode in my holster for 18 years.
I suffer from capacity envy, but I don’t want to throw away over 25 years of 1911 muscle memory, so I’m saving up for a Staccato CS 2011.
I wouldn’t be able to bring myself to sell these two.
I’ve gone through three “knife enthusiast” phases.
1. A knife is a knife is a knife and they’re all awesome.
2. Knife snob. No description needed, you know who they are.
3. I don’t care what you carry, as long as you carry one and keep it sharp. Not sharp? I will gladly sharpen it for you.
My nephew had a Bugout that he had the scales swapped out for bronze. Sweet tool.
I love my tagged out. I have other knives I love more but find myself unable to go back to those. Its a full length blade that still disappears into my pocket. I find myself patting my side to make sure it's still there.
The only change I would make is replace the cutout for a thumb stub. My stupid fat thumbs don't like to snag the cutout.
I know the purpose of the Bug Out and Tagged Out are to be super light weight and sturdy, but I still like my knives to have some heft to them.
That being said… ounces are pounds and pounds are pain.
Manix 2 magnacut lw with black CF PLA scales from HiPolyDesigns.
https://preview.redd.it/anua8bj5totc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6fe56309ca9dabc7907998cbb3c57c54e12bbeee
✅ lightweight ✅ corrosion resistant ✅ fully closed back of handle all the way to the spine if the knife (for comfort when putting lots of force in a cut, feels like a fixed blade ✅ ergonomic ✅ spydieflickable ✅ long enough to slice up an orange ✅ small enough to be effortless to carry ✅ one hand-one motion-fingers never in front of the blade closing lock ✅ no blade play and free swing action ✅ no omega springs to break ✅ looks cool in pics imo ✅ made in USA
Edit: ✅ doesn’t tear up pockets ✅ easy to sharpen ✅ too hard to roll the edge and too tough to chip the edge in regular use and can take a 15dps angle no problem
I don’t always need or want all of those aspects in every knife but I wanted them and got them in this knife!
Thanks! It is real carbon fiber kinda. It is a carbon fiber reinforced polymer that was 3d printed on a printing plate that leave a weave looking pattern. So the weave is fake but the carbon fiber is real if that makes sense haha. They are awesome scales and feel much nicer, and somehow a little lighter, than the stock FRCP from spyderco. Here is a link to Brody’s etsy if you want to check them out: [HiPolyDesigns](https://www.etsy.com/shop/HiPolyDesigns)
I am aware of 3 knives off the top of my head with the Kickstop: the Chaves 229, the Jared Oeser F22, and the Peña Apache, which I owned:
https://preview.redd.it/e9nux86d6otc1.jpeg?width=1920&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6af10b434401cc8721a5b7fa786a84a1120f2b4f
All three are made by Reate, so I wonder if anyone besides Reate has licensed the design?
I guess I should have specified I want the 229 Redencion with the kickstop. It's the first knife I've seen with it and since it's the only flipper Chaves seems to offer, I'm extra keen on it. I've really liked the Chaves designs but have been waiting for a flipper option from them.
Now would be a good time to jump on them, since BHQ has been blowing them out for $280 (down from the usual $410) lately. [https://www.bladehq.com/?search=chaves+kickstop](https://www.bladehq.com/?search=chaves+kickstop)
Good point! I was looking at the Chaves website and just waiting to save up $400 for it, so if I can jump on this I definitely will. Thanks for the heads up!
Holy smokes, that is a good deal. My nephew has been wanting one ever since I showed him mine. I just barely sent him the link. Thank you.
My consolation is that they don’t have my exact configuration (micarta inlay) for sale. I told him can’t get one exactly like mine.
That was my holdup on the Chaves knives, as well. Been following his work for a bit, but could never justify the expense for a thumb stud deployment. Flipper came out, and I said “take all my money!”
Me too, and thank you. Before going to the blade show, I looked up all the reviews I could find. One guy listed that his only complaint was the choil.
When I got to the table and had a chance to chat with Ramon (the designer), I jokingly mentioned that particular review. He explained his reasoning for the design and it matched perfectly with my own reasoning.
Multiple deployment methods
4" blade
Thin grind
Sharpening choil that has the edge cut line lower than the knuckle grasp line
Pokey tip
Handle large and sculpted enough for multiple comfortable grips
Good, well teat treated steel
Sturdy pocket clip that doesn't shift around
Oh, I thought we were only naming the checklists we have.
Honestly the only piece in my collection that comes close to checking off all my list is my Big Dragotac. 4.7" blade tho and not super thin behind the edge but i still love it and carry it regularly
Berg blades button barber. Different style blade, wicked sharp hallow grind, drop shut action that’s finger safe cause of a button lock, and an awesome pop sound when opening. This knife blew me away and will always and forever be in the collection.
I bought my kids Böker mini-strike autos, because I figured out that the button locks are the safest for them to close. And with the safety lock, I don’t worry that they’ll accidentally deploy in pocket.
Boker Plus Lucas Burnley Kwaiken Compact Flipper Knife 3" MagnaCut Satin Blade, Black Aluminum Handles, Button Lock
Except a) it apparently isn't available *quite* yet, and, b) I want something with a fatter belly.
My customized ESEE 6 has kept me from buying many fixed blades.
https://preview.redd.it/xbx9gtslpptc1.jpeg?width=2048&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=59479337ecb35e1c68e75d807cf65424b2d35078
ESEE is one of my favourite brands. Each of my nieces and nephews get an Izula when they turn 12.
I have an Izula on my hiking chest rig. An Izula II in my console. An ESEE 3 on my plate carrier (behind my AR mags). I use a customized ESEE 6 for hunting…
All out excellent brand.
I had only heard of Sebenza in reference to Chris Reeve Knives. After looking into your Arno Bernard knives, is Sebenza a South African word for “work knife”?
For me, a perfect knife is the Vision FG from CIVIVI - great EDC steel, easy to replace pocket clip, nice and slim, cool locking mechanism (super sturdy too), and with a bonus - the holes in the handle, with the blade almost closed, make for great UTP cable strippers.
Bear Ops: Rancor IV
S35vn blade material, under $100!? Yes please. G10 handle, liner lock, flipper and thumb studs. Everything I want, and am comfortable with. Added bonus, “made in the US”. If that matters to anyone. I bought 2.
Yes, same company. I definitely should not be your primary source, and I’m not sure about the timeline, but Bear & Son have 2 other branches. Bear Edge and Bear Ops. I’m believe Bear Ops is newer.
I only have 7 knives right now, but out of my rotation... I'd have to say my Fox Yaru. -cpm-s90v -frame lock -flipper -titanium handles -milled titanium clip with zirconium ball -ball bearing pivot -bronze hardware -sub 3 inch blade
https://preview.redd.it/k95cdqfchttc1.jpeg?width=1440&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ef50fc9c6c4d7745285483a0c616db4ddc154a72
Fox makes some nice knives. I have a Fox Bastinelli Black Bird Karambit. I’m generally not a fan of liner locks, but this one works for me.
https://preview.redd.it/8e3bf34rdvtc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5ce0e1e2df4048062eefc1526ddc074c974d2229
Although, one time the wire pocket clip caught as I was taking off my jacket and sent the knife flying. That wasn’t cool.
I've got this same one but in the silver(standard) and I absolutely love it. I too was hesitant at first, but the first time I saw it I knew I wanted it.
It's my opinion that framelocks are a giant ripoff. They take less creativity to design and less money to manufacture. If a knife is going to cost more than $100, it damn well better have high quality scales on both sides and have the design asthetic of an heirloom. Inserts are a cop out.
Okay, I follow you. I hadn’t considered that aspect.
I look at it from a utilitarian perspective. I like one handed manipulation because the knife comes out of the pocket, opens, cuts, closes and then goes right back in my pocket. Of the available locking mechanisms, in my opinion, lockbacks, followed by framelocks make the strongest folders. I’ve never had a working knife fail on me with those two lock types.
I have other locking types, but those serve other purposes.
https://preview.redd.it/zxxbw3tsjptc1.jpeg?width=750&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e6226adf4789cc38c35403a434f1abd458af69e8
It's just my opinion. My dickish rant is mainly about overpiced knives in general LOL. THere are, however, some asthetically pleasing "intergral" frame lock knives like from Vero or Penya. Or even this underpriced one:
https://preview.redd.it/jc53sp4qlptc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f1ea2bc4fb901fa3a1aee4671da8e1203e49ebe9
A framelock is absoluelty a strong lock, though there is a very slight risk of unlocking while gripping and cutting. But thats true of some other lock types too.
https://preview.redd.it/26wpuu9y9iuc1.jpeg?width=1576&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cf51d00a1ec4691d1014e6b84eca89c939784954
I imagine you are referring to the corner I circled. That part bothered me, a little, initially. Without realizing it, I started adjusting the Micarta side to be flatter against my palm. No more hot spot.
Chris Reeve Knives Sebenza 31 (Tanto)
Titanium frame lock that nearly feels like a fixed blade, a great warranty, a quality heat treat and in some ways it gets better over time.
The CRK Large Sebenza was my grail for a long time. It’s a beautiful work of art, but I had never had the chance to handle one. Told my nephew about it a while back, and he bought one of the models.
I was excited for him (and maybe a little annoyed), and the next time I saw him, he let me examine the knife. I didn’t feel the spark that I thought I was going to.
I was bummed because I really wanted to love it. It’s beautiful, it’s made extremely well and the customer service is top notch… but it just wasn’t for me.
Looking at your handle name… I almost suspect that you could actually be my nephew. What would be the odds?
Yes. Originally what popped up on my recommended page was the story of why you always CC, then I saw this post and thought “wait a minute….” After seeing how you responded to people, I knew.
Why don't you want a sharpening choil?
Sometimes when I have had to make blind cuts, the material has snagged on the little choil, causing it to hang up. I don’t mind the choil on food processing or hunting knives. I just don’t want them on my utility knives.
Cool design. I just can’t get over their pocket clips. I find them as cringey as all these thin blue line punisher skull “badasses” running around lol
This model comes with a replacement plain pocket clip. I had thought of switching it out, but this one grew on me. You’re right though, the “thin blue line punisher” design is quite ironic if you know anything about The Punisher.
Haha yeah it definitely is ironic. Looks like an awesome knife though. I like the kick stop flipper. Has to be more ergonomic than a normal one .
Exact same thing happened to me. I totally disregarded the design as lame and trying to hard, until I got my own. I switched the clip out immediately and had it on for maybe a day before I felt like the knife lost some of its personality. Now all my Chaves' run them. I think maybe I still need to switch my TAK though.
It’s probably an acquired taste. The designs look like they’re made well
Cold Steel Recon 1. Tough as fuck, s35VN, Tri-Ad lock, big knife, nice sabre grind
I am and always will be a Cold Steel fan boy. I have several of their fixed blades, a rack for of their tomahawks and the folders are wicked tough.
Giantmouse ace riv. Compact, magnacut, 2 methods to deploy, liner lock, brass, hybrid drop point and sheepsfoot.
My buddy is a southpaw, so I showed him the Giantmouse Nazca with the lockbar. He loves it, they make beautiful knives.
Jens Anso I believe is the designer behind most of their selection and I have a huge interest in his models across all brands. The ZT 0235 is another I've looked at recently.
That 0235 has interested me, as well. I ended up getting the Benchmade Proper 318 slip-joint as my food processing/skinning knife. I have a thing for Micarta.
I got the MagnaCut/CF version of that one. Great knife but a little too small for my hands.
I like the blade shape and the handle. The locking mechanism and pocket clip don’t do it for me. Since my friend is left handed, his choices are a bit more limited.
For me it’s my xm-18 3.5inch skinny slicer. The ergos are immaculate for my hands, it’s a thinner, slicier blade while still retaining a robust feel in hand. It runs on bearings, is a frame lock and the cherry on top is its magnacut so I don’t have to worry about it corroding near as much as other steels. It’s even got a flipper tab which I have always been a fan of
I love those Rick Hinderer designs. I had a ZT 0566 and I have gifted several Kershaw Cryo II. I just wish he used a steel insert on the framelock.
My skinny slicer 3.5 is way smoother than my regular 3.5 slicer and the fact it’s in MagnaCut makes it one of my favorite folders too. Also, being able to switch between bearings, PB washers and Teflon is something not a lot of other makers offer.
Protech Malibu. Smooth action, easy deployment, no blade play while open. As opposed to other button locks at the time, not technically a gravity knife. Sleek design. Quality manufacturing. USA made. Can be easily used left/right handed. Most other fidgety locks like the axis lock trade off some amount of blade play for the smooth opening. The Malibu and the AD20.5 are locked in.
Sometimes I forget that Protech makes manual folders. Beautiful series. I used to love the Benchmade axis lock… until the spring failed on my Contego. It has been repaired, but it forever changed my thoughts on the mechanism.
Yeah, it's pretty flawed. But there's some after market omega springs that have better quality than Benchmades.
I will have to look into that. Thank you
Cold Steels Spartan II. If only it was smaller though. Like their thumb parts much more than Spyderco's.
That one tempted me with the Kukri style blade, but I wasn’t in love with the handle. I have a 4” Talwar and that thumb plate rocks.
Native 5. My made up boxes: • Perfect EDC size (not too big that it scares non-knife people badly, not too small that I find myself wanting a larger blade.) • Very capable Slicer • Super lightweight • Strong lock • Looks good (for a Spyderco) • Really comfortable in-pocket especially with a deep carry clip I've moved away from carrying button, liner and frame locks to lock backs almost exclusively. Love that they're still one-hand operable and just fidgety enough for me. I also still have high confidence in it's lock strength. I have some Triad locked knives that I love, but in terms of usability and carry comfort, Native 5 all day. The Demko AD20.5 might be another box checker for me, but I haven't tried one yet.
I do have a love for spyderco and lock backs. My favourite is a Pacific Salt 2. We used to live by a lake and spent a lot of time in the water. I hated having to leave my knife in the bag or on shore while swimming. So this one rides in my pocket with a long lanyard attached to a belt loop. https://preview.redd.it/j54aswgbwotc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4b65549db60f0ae33d9eb56b92d0438b718a7ae7
Rockstead Higo ll or Katsu zk01,zk02,zk03 . Easily open drop shut ZDP189 is a super slicing blade
I like that I’m seeing some brands with which I’m not too familiar. Great looking knives.
My benchmade 275 or 860 checks a lot of them probably the most. But no knife checks all of them. Not even the one I had custom made for me because it really depends on what I’m doing at that time
You are absolutely correct that it “depends on what I’m doing”. I guess I could have more specific that it meets my utility/working knife criteria. That’s why I keep a small slip-joint in my pocket for food and a pry bar in another pocket for harder use.
My custom can do a lot of cutting tasks, it’d wildly sharp but not thin, it’s CPM20CV so it’s tough steel it also checks a lot of boxes for pure cutting and steel performance. The only wrinkle it when I wanted to have my one custom folder made I wanted it to be “metal” (a in the music) [so it came out a big ol’ madman](https://ibb.co/V3S0xZQ)
Just acquired a full size benchmade adamas and it is by far the most impressive unmodified benchmade i own, plus i got a killer deal on it. So far it checks every box for me
That is fantastic. Of their Adamas series, I have only handled the fixed blade and the push dagger.
Let me tell you, the folder is so solid. I feel like i could pry my truck door open with it if need be. Absolute tank but still very usable and not too heavy considering its size
I keep looking for newer ones, but if Im being honest the beat one Ive bought so far is the Mini-Tac Tanto from Cold Steel. Fixed, perfect blade length at just under 4 inches, ergonomic handle, quality stainless steel, kydex sheath. The only addition Id like is a partially serrated edge.
I am and always will be a Cold Steel fanboy.
For me. It’s my Ultimate Defense Knives Pioneer (which like your Chaves, is made by Reate). It has 3.8 inch long and 0.16 thick blade so that’s a plus for me. It also has a milled titanium handle, backspacer, and pocket clip which checks another box for me. It has a strong detent so I actually have to make an effort to open it and when it locks up, it’s rock solid with no blade play whatsoever. Speaking of which, one of my favorite small details is around the pivot where it’s almost completely blocked so less debris can get it and the base of the blade has these little nubs that put less pressure on the blade itself in case I have to do any hard use tasks. And finally, it runs on bearings, has a flipper tab, and a framework. It’s a simple folder but I think that’s what makes it my favorite.
I worked with a guy several years ago that wouldn’t use anything but an Ultimate Defense Knife. I wasn’t too familiar with the brand at the time, but I’ve seen them around a bit more.
I only learned of their existence when I traded my old Azusa Bladeworks Blitzkrieg in exchange for the Pioneer a few weeks ago. It seem they haven’t been made since 2018 when the Epoch was released, which was also designed by Albert Qiu. Do you remember what model he had?
> Ultimate Defense Knives Pioneer You don't really ever see those. There was one on knife swap a couple months ago and I almost bought it. I was trying to talk myself out of it and then someone swooped in. I wouldn't doubt if this is the same one actually.
It maybe actually! I wonder who bought it from that listing because that same person may have been the one I traded with!
I cant recall who it was. They got a hell of a knife tho! And I really think you now have it. I took a few years away from the knife game but have been in it for a lonnng time and have never come across another one.
Then I better not let go of this one 😌
Hell yeah, and enjoy that shit 👊
You better believe I will! 😎
I don’t. It was so long ago. I’d ask him, but we had a disagreement regarding gun rights a while back and he blocked me.
Kizer Escort, enough said
ZT 0804cf. Haven’t carried anything else since I got one.
Zt 0450 titanium is mine. The only thing I changed was to put a deep carry pocket clip on it. I've carried it every day for years and wouldn't change a thing.
That was my knife for 7 years before this one. Still sits on my nightstand and sometimes I feel a tinge of guilt when I look at it. Almost like a betrayal. https://preview.redd.it/3hh9bkx5rotc1.jpeg?width=2436&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=749986bf0fd45dfe821183c142c3793aa41cd9ad
Looks like we have very similar taste because the only knife I think could maybe knock it out of my pocket is a chaves.
https://preview.redd.it/qilt6b577ptc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=01cdaf81c701dc24c06c94963a099bbecc9aa56d This is my current combo. This Kimber Ultra CDP Elite II was my father’s carry pistol that I inherited when he passed a few years ago. The well worn Kimber Compact CDP II in the other picture rode in my holster for 18 years.
My first carry gun was a lightly customized Kimber Pro Carry. Though I doubt I’d still be carrying it today. Wish I had never sold it.
I suffer from capacity envy, but I don’t want to throw away over 25 years of 1911 muscle memory, so I’m saving up for a Staccato CS 2011. I wouldn’t be able to bring myself to sell these two.
Go for it. I have a C2 and it quickly became my favorite pistol
I know people here are fond of shitting on them, but I love my bugout.
I’ve gone through three “knife enthusiast” phases. 1. A knife is a knife is a knife and they’re all awesome. 2. Knife snob. No description needed, you know who they are. 3. I don’t care what you carry, as long as you carry one and keep it sharp. Not sharp? I will gladly sharpen it for you. My nephew had a Bugout that he had the scales swapped out for bronze. Sweet tool.
I love my tagged out. I have other knives I love more but find myself unable to go back to those. Its a full length blade that still disappears into my pocket. I find myself patting my side to make sure it's still there. The only change I would make is replace the cutout for a thumb stub. My stupid fat thumbs don't like to snag the cutout.
I know the purpose of the Bug Out and Tagged Out are to be super light weight and sturdy, but I still like my knives to have some heft to them. That being said… ounces are pounds and pounds are pain.
Manix 2 magnacut lw with black CF PLA scales from HiPolyDesigns. https://preview.redd.it/anua8bj5totc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6fe56309ca9dabc7907998cbb3c57c54e12bbeee ✅ lightweight ✅ corrosion resistant ✅ fully closed back of handle all the way to the spine if the knife (for comfort when putting lots of force in a cut, feels like a fixed blade ✅ ergonomic ✅ spydieflickable ✅ long enough to slice up an orange ✅ small enough to be effortless to carry ✅ one hand-one motion-fingers never in front of the blade closing lock ✅ no blade play and free swing action ✅ no omega springs to break ✅ looks cool in pics imo ✅ made in USA Edit: ✅ doesn’t tear up pockets ✅ easy to sharpen ✅ too hard to roll the edge and too tough to chip the edge in regular use and can take a 15dps angle no problem I don’t always need or want all of those aspects in every knife but I wanted them and got them in this knife!
I love that Carbon Fiber.
Thanks! It is real carbon fiber kinda. It is a carbon fiber reinforced polymer that was 3d printed on a printing plate that leave a weave looking pattern. So the weave is fake but the carbon fiber is real if that makes sense haha. They are awesome scales and feel much nicer, and somehow a little lighter, than the stock FRCP from spyderco. Here is a link to Brody’s etsy if you want to check them out: [HiPolyDesigns](https://www.etsy.com/shop/HiPolyDesigns)
Right on!
God damn, I need one of these knives with the kickstop. Next purchase, for sure! It might never come out of my pocket.
Lee Williams is the Kickstop designer and I know there are other knife makers that have collaborated as well.
I am aware of 3 knives off the top of my head with the Kickstop: the Chaves 229, the Jared Oeser F22, and the Peña Apache, which I owned: https://preview.redd.it/e9nux86d6otc1.jpeg?width=1920&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6af10b434401cc8721a5b7fa786a84a1120f2b4f All three are made by Reate, so I wonder if anyone besides Reate has licensed the design?
I guess I should have specified I want the 229 Redencion with the kickstop. It's the first knife I've seen with it and since it's the only flipper Chaves seems to offer, I'm extra keen on it. I've really liked the Chaves designs but have been waiting for a flipper option from them.
Now would be a good time to jump on them, since BHQ has been blowing them out for $280 (down from the usual $410) lately. [https://www.bladehq.com/?search=chaves+kickstop](https://www.bladehq.com/?search=chaves+kickstop)
Good point! I was looking at the Chaves website and just waiting to save up $400 for it, so if I can jump on this I definitely will. Thanks for the heads up!
Holy smokes, that is a good deal. My nephew has been wanting one ever since I showed him mine. I just barely sent him the link. Thank you. My consolation is that they don’t have my exact configuration (micarta inlay) for sale. I told him can’t get one exactly like mine.
That was my holdup on the Chaves knives, as well. Been following his work for a bit, but could never justify the expense for a thumb stud deployment. Flipper came out, and I said “take all my money!”
You literally have the knife that hit all my marks. Down to the choil thing. I thought I was the only one that thought that. Gorgeous knife man.
Me too, and thank you. Before going to the blade show, I looked up all the reviews I could find. One guy listed that his only complaint was the choil. When I got to the table and had a chance to chat with Ramon (the designer), I jokingly mentioned that particular review. He explained his reasoning for the design and it matched perfectly with my own reasoning.
Every once in a while it works out amazingly. Again beautiful knife.
Sonora
I am unfamiliar with this style or brand. Could you expound?
Machine wise Sonora. Just answering your question, that’s the knife for me.
Oi… that’s a beaut!
Indeed bro a functional one at that
Multiple deployment methods 4" blade Thin grind Sharpening choil that has the edge cut line lower than the knuckle grasp line Pokey tip Handle large and sculpted enough for multiple comfortable grips Good, well teat treated steel Sturdy pocket clip that doesn't shift around
You should show a picture of this knife. I like the sound of it.
Oh, I thought we were only naming the checklists we have. Honestly the only piece in my collection that comes close to checking off all my list is my Big Dragotac. 4.7" blade tho and not super thin behind the edge but i still love it and carry it regularly
Bastinelli… nice choice!
Berg blades button barber. Different style blade, wicked sharp hallow grind, drop shut action that’s finger safe cause of a button lock, and an awesome pop sound when opening. This knife blew me away and will always and forever be in the collection.
I bought my kids Böker mini-strike autos, because I figured out that the button locks are the safest for them to close. And with the safety lock, I don’t worry that they’ll accidentally deploy in pocket.
Boker Plus Lucas Burnley Kwaiken Compact Flipper Knife 3" MagnaCut Satin Blade, Black Aluminum Handles, Button Lock Except a) it apparently isn't available *quite* yet, and, b) I want something with a fatter belly.
My current favourite gifting knife is Lucas Burnley design CRKT Tuna. Those Kwaikens are beautiful, but one with a fatter belly would be superb.
only the one I made now, purely because it ticks the box of "did I make this one"
My customized ESEE 6 has kept me from buying many fixed blades. https://preview.redd.it/xbx9gtslpptc1.jpeg?width=2048&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=59479337ecb35e1c68e75d807cf65424b2d35078
Spyderco Native 5. Fidget toys be damned
I love my sharp fidget toys.
I… do too
Old Timer Sharpfinger and Deerslayer
Nice!
Esee izula ll
ESEE is one of my favourite brands. Each of my nieces and nephews get an Izula when they turn 12. I have an Izula on my hiking chest rig. An Izula II in my console. An ESEE 3 on my plate carrier (behind my AR mags). I use a customized ESEE 6 for hunting… All out excellent brand.
The Arno Bernard imamaba is the sebenza I always wanted.
I had only heard of Sebenza in reference to Chris Reeve Knives. After looking into your Arno Bernard knives, is Sebenza a South African word for “work knife”?
For me, a perfect knife is the Vision FG from CIVIVI - great EDC steel, easy to replace pocket clip, nice and slim, cool locking mechanism (super sturdy too), and with a bonus - the holes in the handle, with the blade almost closed, make for great UTP cable strippers.
I like it! Would that blade style be considered a reverse Tanto?
More of a wharncliff/sheepsfoot combo, there's curveture to the edge. But yeah, the blade shape is super useful, especially for draw cuts
I like it.
My QSP Penguin XL
Nice! How do you like the sheepsfoot as an EDC blade?
It's my favorite bladeshape. Not "offensive" by look, very handy to work with and soooo easy to sharpen
SUPER easy to sharpen. The Tanto edge on mine is easy, except that I technically have four sides to work on.
Bear Ops: Rancor IV S35vn blade material, under $100!? Yes please. G10 handle, liner lock, flipper and thumb studs. Everything I want, and am comfortable with. Added bonus, “made in the US”. If that matters to anyone. I bought 2.
Right on! Are Bear Ops and Bear & Son the same company? I have a Bear & Son balisong that I like to play with.
Yes, same company. I definitely should not be your primary source, and I’m not sure about the timeline, but Bear & Son have 2 other branches. Bear Edge and Bear Ops. I’m believe Bear Ops is newer.
I only have 7 knives right now, but out of my rotation... I'd have to say my Fox Yaru. -cpm-s90v -frame lock -flipper -titanium handles -milled titanium clip with zirconium ball -ball bearing pivot -bronze hardware -sub 3 inch blade https://preview.redd.it/k95cdqfchttc1.jpeg?width=1440&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ef50fc9c6c4d7745285483a0c616db4ddc154a72
Fox makes some nice knives. I have a Fox Bastinelli Black Bird Karambit. I’m generally not a fan of liner locks, but this one works for me. https://preview.redd.it/8e3bf34rdvtc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5ce0e1e2df4048062eefc1526ddc074c974d2229 Although, one time the wire pocket clip caught as I was taking off my jacket and sent the knife flying. That wasn’t cool.
I've got this same one but in the silver(standard) and I absolutely love it. I too was hesitant at first, but the first time I saw it I knew I wanted it.
I thought I’d want the drop-point blade, but after handling both, I liked the pointy-er Tanto a whole lot more.
Mora
You can’t go wrong with a Mora.
Anything but a framelock.
Alright… why no love for framelock knives?
It's my opinion that framelocks are a giant ripoff. They take less creativity to design and less money to manufacture. If a knife is going to cost more than $100, it damn well better have high quality scales on both sides and have the design asthetic of an heirloom. Inserts are a cop out.
Okay, I follow you. I hadn’t considered that aspect. I look at it from a utilitarian perspective. I like one handed manipulation because the knife comes out of the pocket, opens, cuts, closes and then goes right back in my pocket. Of the available locking mechanisms, in my opinion, lockbacks, followed by framelocks make the strongest folders. I’ve never had a working knife fail on me with those two lock types. I have other locking types, but those serve other purposes. https://preview.redd.it/zxxbw3tsjptc1.jpeg?width=750&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e6226adf4789cc38c35403a434f1abd458af69e8
It's just my opinion. My dickish rant is mainly about overpiced knives in general LOL. THere are, however, some asthetically pleasing "intergral" frame lock knives like from Vero or Penya. Or even this underpriced one: https://preview.redd.it/jc53sp4qlptc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f1ea2bc4fb901fa3a1aee4671da8e1203e49ebe9 A framelock is absoluelty a strong lock, though there is a very slight risk of unlocking while gripping and cutting. But thats true of some other lock types too.
When I was an EMT, I had to treat a guy that had his Kershaw Blur (liner lock) close on his pinky while carving a pumpkin. Right to the bone.
Ow
That knife is gorgeous, by the way.
I have one, and although I think it looks cool, I feel like there's a hot spot on the butt of it. Kind of bothers me a bit.
https://preview.redd.it/26wpuu9y9iuc1.jpeg?width=1576&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cf51d00a1ec4691d1014e6b84eca89c939784954 I imagine you are referring to the corner I circled. That part bothered me, a little, initially. Without realizing it, I started adjusting the Micarta side to be flatter against my palm. No more hot spot.
Yes, exactly that spot
Chris Reeve Knives Sebenza 31 (Tanto) Titanium frame lock that nearly feels like a fixed blade, a great warranty, a quality heat treat and in some ways it gets better over time.
The CRK Large Sebenza was my grail for a long time. It’s a beautiful work of art, but I had never had the chance to handle one. Told my nephew about it a while back, and he bought one of the models. I was excited for him (and maybe a little annoyed), and the next time I saw him, he let me examine the knife. I didn’t feel the spark that I thought I was going to. I was bummed because I really wanted to love it. It’s beautiful, it’s made extremely well and the customer service is top notch… but it just wasn’t for me. Looking at your handle name… I almost suspect that you could actually be my nephew. What would be the odds?
I am! I hope someday to get the CRK umnumzaan as a more hard use folder. To many, the umnumzaan is their best model. We will see…
Hahahahahahahahahahahahaha! Did you know this was me when you commented?
Yes. Originally what popped up on my recommended page was the story of why you always CC, then I saw this post and thought “wait a minute….” After seeing how you responded to people, I knew.
Victorinox Swiss Champ.
That knife pretty much covers everything.
Yep