HI,

I want to find a knife that has these qualities:

- Folder
- Outstanding steel (maintains sharpness well w/proper use...)
- Tactical (Personal Protection), Survival (skinning/gutting deer...)
- Serrated area on blade (if you think this is good, if not - why not?)

I'm buying it for a special guy! He used to have a Benchmade that he liked, but that is all I know...

It appears that brand name has a lot to do with this, so if there is a knife that you can refer me to that may have a lesser "name" but is of high quality and versatile, please let me know.

Thanks! <img src="/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

Raeba

Price range? Have you looked at any specific models you'd like some opinions on?

I'm not too concerned with price. However, I have seen many knives under $100 that have smiliar features and craftsmanship as knives over $200 (apparently due to brand name and market position...).

Just a folding knife with the aforemention features in one of the popluar brands should suffice. Benchmade seem to be pretty nice, and I'm not sure about Buck these days. How about Smith & Wesson - are they good?

Thanks.

Raeba

Well, I don't own a S&W, so I can't say for sure.

I do own several benchmades, and am happy with them. You could do a lot worse than a benchmade of some sort. Just because I have the plain edge version, I can recommend the BM 710 with partially serrated blade, if you must have serrations (I prefer a plain edge myself).

Then, of course, there's Doug's knife, which is a benchmade with better steel and a specially designed blade and handle. I have one of these, and it's nice.

I'm not sure I'd want a knife as a gift. I'm kinda particular about this stuff. Better would be to get your guy to mention his preference, then buy that. To knife people, not just any knife will do. <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

you could get lots of good advice over on

www.bladeforums.com

but it is best to stay with the major names like Benchmade, Spyderco or have your special person pick it out -- most guys are very particular about their knives and it is pretty risky to surprise someone with a knife, many times it may turn out to be an unpleasant rather than a pleasant surprise. And it will be really hard to find one all purpose knife for the list you provided -- I don't think such an animal exists. That's why most guys that have knives, have a collection of knives. Plus, it is a personal thing -- different knives fit some hands and some don't -- that is why it is best to have your friend pick it out so it can be handled. Good luck in the search!

S&W knives are a major mixed bag. They pimped thier name to a lot of suppliers, some good, some indifferent.

The serration is good for people have to cut a lot of carboard or rope, but for a lot of things, it is worse than a straight adge.

If you want a folder with enough belly to skin... Maybe the KaBar Warthog folder. It has the most belly of anything that comes to mind right now, and I've never had a problem with KaBar knives.

Is 8A stainless ok? What type of steel do I look for? This will be mostly used to carry as personal protection backup and for survival if needed.

Thanks...

I am surprised that it took that long for someone to come up with Doug Ritter RSK Mk1? (Benchmade Model 552) on this forum, but sounds to me like it would be a good bet. I do not have one. If he does not like it, I do know where you could find a good home for it. <img src="/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

I am not much on serrated blades especially when you threw skinning in as a use, but to each his own.

A good knife is a personal thing, really hard to pick for someone else.

I second the comment made about Smith and Wesson knives. I think S&W has done like Winchester and put an old reputable name on cheap products. I have a couple of S&W knives and am not impressed.

Suggestion: If he had a Benchmade that he liked and no longer has (lost?), try to find out more about it and buy a similiar one.

Good advice from you all - thanks.

What types of steel are best? I assume 440 is better than 8A in the stainless category.

Wouldn't serrated be useful in survival situations -- and as it pains me to think -- it may be more destructive in a personal protection situation too.

If it comes from a good name, it should be good steel. I'm a little leary of 420 Stainless, but that's about it if it has good breeding.

Asking about steel is about like asking about any other personal things, like underwear. I don't ask, I don't suggest, just go with what you like.

There are some constants about steel - what holds and edge better etc. I'm sure Doug Ritter considered what type of steel he would want to bear his name - for everyone else who buys it.

Have someone close pull you aside and teach you the difference between underwear and steel <img src="/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

Thanks for your input.

I don't really like the looks of the blade on that one (RSK Mk1). I showed it to a couple of guys here in the office, and asked them their opinion (separately) they both actually laughed and said the blade looked funny in comparison to any other blade they've seen - they likened it to a toy or amateur design.

I wouldn't go that far, but I don't like it. To each their own. And I certainly am greatful that you shared your opinion and I respect it.

I think that is a case of most people prefering aesthetics over function.

However, that is understandable. Looks play a lot into everything we do and certainly we make compromises for those reasons.

If you look at other Benchmade knives, I'd go for one with the Axis lock. It is quite slick. I got my wife a Mini Ritter RSK Mk1 and it is a great little knive. Very addictive and a great value for the price IMO.

Not sure if it is in your price range, but you might check out the Chris Reeve Small Sebenza. It has a (two options actually) bit more sexy blade shape.

The Sebbie is sort of a minimalistic knife, but VERY well made. Basically, everything in it is distilled to pure function. On the surface, you wouldn't think that would result in a desirable knife, but there is an elegance to it and the materials and quality are great. It is one of those knives that might not rate a second glance - but once you pick it up - look at it - use it, you start to appreciate what a masterpiece it is.

It has solid titanium handles and clip and good S30V steel.

I've got a few pictures of mine here.

-john

I am on similar search and do not know what to get myself, Rat Trap or Benchmade Griptilian. Probably, it will be interesting for you to read why these two knives came up in my selection because I already did my homework on many knives while doing my selection.

Rat Trap. It is in your price range, but I compared it to other knives like Sebenza and Strider.
I think the majority of knife collectors in the world will know Sebenza. It has reputation similar to Swiss watches at the beginning of 20th century ? cannot get better for any money (it is arguable, of course). It is also quite a symbolic knife, I think, which shows you know well knife industry. It has steel which many people will believe is the best stainless steel, which is S30V. However, as I understood from reading this and other knife forums, Sebenza is not as good as Benchmade Doug Ritter for survival/outdoor purposes. This, combined with high price, put me off this knife.
Strider. It is a bit out of your and my budget. It has one of the best warranties, correct me if I am wrong, guys ? if you break it, the manufacturer will replace it. It is made for self-defence/military purposes, therefore a lot of people found it is not that comfortable to do other tasks. And I read several complaints about handle ergonomics.
Rat Trap. I guess I just do not want to see its weaknesses, but I read some people felt ergonomics of the handle was not comfortable. Otherwise it has warranty which, to my understanding, is to the level of Strider. It is quite rare knife, but I think knife collectors do know Swamp Rat as a manufacturer of very tough knives made primarily for non-military consumers. They are not cheap, but cheaper than Sebenza or Strider. This is what I like: made specifically for non-military consumers, so it should be quite fine for hunting/outdoors and other activities, including survival. Steel is good on this knife, it is S30V.

Benchmade Griptilian. I wanted to find the best knife for less or about $100 for field work/survival/office/shooting/travel. The main criteria were ergonomics of handle and comfort to cut tree branches, wood carving, cooking (includes peeling vegetables, I think this task reveals how versatile knife blade is). I was selecting from a huge number of knives. My initial list was probably about 140 knives. After first selection I chose 2-3 Cold Steels (do not remember names), 1-2 Gerbers (do not remember names), 2-3 Columbia Rivers (one was Kasper), Buck Strider, new Leatherman (not tool), Spyderco Native, Benchmade Doug Ritter, Benchmade Pika, Spyderco Delica, Spyderco Endura, Victorinox Trekker, Wenger Ranger, Camillus Sierra and VTech (Chinese copy of Sebenza). I narrowed my choice further and ended up with choice between Benchmade Doug Ritter or Benchmade Griptilian. From information I gathered, I concluded there was no difference in performance of these knives (even blade shape did not play much difference), but Doug Ritter had better steel (S30V). Since I do not care about steel, the decisive factor price. Griptilian was twice cheaper (steel 440C, one of the best 440 steels).

I would probably love to have Rat Trap as a present, but Griptilian to buy for work - Rat Trap is more to show off, while Griptilian is workhorse. But this is my opinion only though (I guess I need to decide what I want and this will solve my problem, I think I want a present <img src="/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />).

No serration on blade ? plains is better for most common cuttings (food and tree branches).

Ask your office buddies what they think of this <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />.

Seriously though, I can assure you that the Ritter is no toy. I EDC one and it is a serious tool. But you are correct that tastes vary.

Regards, Vince

Wow... Revulsion... I think I threw up in mouth a little just then... HAHAHA

But seriously, Is it a quality knife?

I like to call things that fall in the arena of function over form that tend to move into f'ugly "rebel tech"... Yeah, I'm an old school Star Wars geek. <img src="/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

You can readily see from the responses that there are as many opinions as there are knives. It's likely your friend's needs and wants have changed over time; that, along with evolving technology and designs, makes selection a moving target.

Ron summed it up well: "A good knife is a personal thing, really hard to pick for someone else."

It's not as gratifying as actually presenting your friend with a knife you went to great pains to select, but have you considered a gift certificate from a knife dealer?
Here's one such possibility (not necessarily an endorsement, just an example). Or, if you do purchase a knife, make sure the dealer has a reasonable exchange/return policy just in case. And pick a retailer who carries a wide selection of good brands.

What floats an individual's boat in knives is indeed a personal call.

But re you're friends thoughts on the RSK blade design, many knowledgeable knife (and survival) people probably got a smile out of that one. Your office friends may not find it attractive, but it is an excellent working design in general, and Doug's in particular has received rave reviews from some quite qualified folk. The wide-chord drop point -- "sexy," no; useful, yes.

But choice is each user's call. I'd suggest a look at Doug's other folding knife recommendations. You'll find several quality folders in a quite reasonable price range. Another option is the Cabela's version of the Griptillian in D2 tool steel.

I'd also second the gift certificate idea.

Raeba, there are so many knives to choose from these days, I just have a dresser drawer full to satisfy my cravings for sharp stuff. For most folks, I would stay away from serrated edges. They are problematic for sharpening for MOST people. Not everyone has the tools needed to get those little edges properly sharpened. As to recommending individual knives, that's easy. I agree with about everyone on here, Benchmade, Spyderco, Buck, Columbia River, and a few others for folders.
I am including a few links to some kniuves I have personally. These are the very best both economically, and utility minded folks can appreciate.

http://www.crkt.com/M21.html
http://www.crkt.com/litem1.html
that Lightfoot M1 is a little thick for some, it's a TOUGH folder and has a GREAT edge and steel is real good. AUS 8 steel is what lots of companies use. It's easy to sharpen, and keeps a good edge.
The Benchmade Griptilian is a good all around knife as some suggested. There are a couple different steels available on those, but it really doesn't matter. I could sit here all day and tell you this stuff and offer suggestions. Several others suggested for you to let him pick out his own, that knife guys are picky, but the thing is if you buy it for him, he'll love it, no matter wht it is. Good luck.

yes, that's a very good idea !!!

In few years ago, friends/coworkers offered me a knife, as a birthday present.
They knew I had a small blades' collection, so they thought I would be happy with such a gift.
But that knife was an horror to my eyes ...!!!!!!!!!!!... and I did not succeed to conceal my disappointment..... <img src="/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" />
So I got back to the retailer and choose another one, a bit better for my taste.
And a few days later, I had to organise a small exhibit of my different knifes, swords etc..., hoping they would understand my reaction.

Frenchy -


I feel your pain <img src="/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" /> Few years ago, my wife spent good amount of money on a knife as gift for me. It was as opposite as you could get from what I would have gotten. Tried hard to hide my dismay; she very graciously insisted that I exchange it for another, which I did. She now asks for recommendations before buying something like that. On balance, she's the same way about clothing <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

I wouldnt buy the knife.
I would find a good knife dealer/shop/supplier and buy a gift voucher for roughly the $ amount of the Benchmade model that he liked.
That way he gets the present, a knife and the enjoyment of finding the knife that he wants. You at least dont give a dud gift, and if the knife that is picked is a dud, its not your fault <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

I would agree with Biggzie. Also my Grandmother was supersticous (sp) and believed that you never give someone a knife or or you will cut your relationship. (She gave a penny and let you buy the knife from her)

Stay Safe.

Yeah I saw it in the movie once. Somebody gave someone a blade and he gave him back a nickle for it. Hah. Good to know the story behind it all.

There are some outstanding knives available in the market today. As many people mentioned it is a matter of personal preference which one fits you. I mean we had here on ETS countless posts about which knife to carry and why not. Probably the best suggestion I read so far was to buy a gift certificate and let him choose. Still I will give you my 2 cents on some of the blades I carried over the years.

Sebenza Large: Great solid knife with excellent steel, smooth operation, solid lock and clean design.

Microtech Tarzuola: Good knife with fancy mechanics for the opening but a nice all around blade.

Buck Strider combo folder: probably the best bang for the buck. Simple solid even if little rough around the endges. This would be my choice as a gift.

Never got into Spydercos and CRKT but they also have some good quality knives.

I stopped carrying more expensive knives with me because I don't want to loose them. I'm absent minded sometimes and I run a lot and to loose a $300 knife would be a pity. I also don't like serrated edges because I have no idea how to sharpen them and I'm little impatient to send it back to the manufacturer.

Good luck. If you decide to get a knife save the recipt. If the big guy doesnt like the blade and wants to exchange it don't worry. Sometimes it is really hard to please a knife nut. After all it is a thought that counts. Think of it as us guys buying you clothes. We kind of know what you want but we will get color and size always wrong (even if you write it down for us).