EDC Knives On a Tight Budget

[JFootin]

I am living on a modest fixed income, so my purchases of SD weapons and gear are done infrequently and with a lot of thought. I must admit, though, that it has become a hobby that brings me a lot of joy, so my heart wants to argue with my thriftiness at times! :p

So, here are my EDC knife choices to date:


The Cold Steel Roach Belly (http://www.coldsteel.com/Product/20RBC/ROACH_BELLY.aspx) fixed blade, which I obtained for like $8.77 or so. I love the shape of it and the blade is sharper than any razor blade! Very light weight. I wrapped the handle with hockey tape for better feel and grip (not pictured).
http://i1230.photobucket.com/albums/ee486/John_England/Miscellanious%20Guns%20and%20Holsters/ColdSteelRoachBellyKnife2.jpg
Bawanna did some fancy wood inlay on the grip on this one and sent it to me recently as a gift! He my daddy! :D
http://i1230.photobucket.com/albums/ee486/John_England/Miscellanious%20Guns%20and%20Holsters/attachment_zpse97d23d3.jpg
The Gerber Fast Draw (http://www.gerbergear.com/Essentials/Knives/Fast-Draw-Knife_22-47162) assisted opening folder, which I obtained for $26.59 shipped. This is an excellent EDC knife with a strong clip and great blade.
http://img.alibaba.com/wsphoto/381412761/Gerber-Fast-Draw-Textured-Nylon-Handle-floding-knife-with-clip.jpg
.
The Meyerco NeckLance (http://www.amazon.com/Meyerco-Double-Edge-Neck-Knife/dp/B001L15FP2/ref=sr_1_3?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1369354090&sr=1-3&keywords=Meyerco+NeckLance) dagger, which I obtained for $7.24 shipped! This is a serious little backup weapon. Light, thin, sturdy and easy to grasp securely.
http://www.idealoutdoors.com/images/MC5337.jpg
.
And my latest find just ordered and on the way, the CRKT M4-02S (http://www.crkt.com/M4-Stag-Scales-Stainless-Bolster-Razor-Sharp-Edge-OutBurst-LAWKS-Knife) assisted opening folder with stag scales and brushed SS bolsters, which I obtained for just $31.14 shipped! I fell in love with this one a long time ago, but wasn't going to pay $70-80 for it. But I finally found it at a price that I could not resist! :D
http://i1230.photobucket.com/albums/ee486/John_England/Miscellanious%20Guns%20and%20Holsters/CRKTM4-02SAssistOpenKnife.jpg

A total investment of <$75. What else do I need for SD and EDC functionality, and a little bling with that last one? Something for around the house? Maybe a kukri? A Bowie? a Trench Hawk (http://www.coldsteel.com/Product/90PTH/TRENCH_HAWK.aspx)?

[CJB]

Boker AK74 automatics.... good steel, aluminum scales, tight lockup, sharp. About $35-40

[Barth]

If you shop around, for ~$60, a Delica has been a long time favorite of mine.
http://www.spyderco.com/pix/products/large/C11BK_L.jpg

But my favorite, for just a few more dollars, are the Pacific Salt H1 series.
http://images10.newegg.com/NeweggImage/productimage/A06L_1_20110811_6427483.jpg[/QUOTE]

[knkali]

questions:

Do you want more reach(over 3.5 inch blade)?
Is weight a factor?
Folder or ?
Price range?

[JFootin]

Boker AK74 automatics.... good steel, aluminum scales, tight lockup, sharp. About $35-40

CJB, that's a nice looking knife. Is pushing the button all you have to do to open it?

http://www.bladehq.com/imgs/side-opening-automatics/boker-auto/boker-kalashnikov/boker-kalashnikov-01kals74bk-large.jpg

[LorenzoB]

Amazon is running a deal now on Kershaw knives.

http://www.slickguns.com/product/get-10-your-50-kershaw-knife-purchase-amazon

[JFootin]

questions:

Do you want more reach(over 3.5 inch blade)?
Is weight a factor?
Folder or ?
Price range?

I'm not really looking. What I was saying is that I feel like I have a nice little variety of SD knives now with a total expenditure of <$75, and don't really need much more except maybe something not carry-able, but for SD at home. But now CJB has me looking at that Boker automatic! My heart is getting stirred up! :40:

[knkali]

I'm not really looking. What I was saying is that I feel like I have a nice little variety of SD knives now with a total expenditure of <$75, and don't really need much more except maybe something not carry-able, but for SD at home. But now CJB has me looking at that Boker automatic! My heart is getting stirred up! :40:

For SD at home? Then the last thing you would need is an auto or a folder. You would want a fixed blade.

[dkmatthews]

If you want cheap and effective, go this way:
http://img832.imageshack.us/img832/4402/boxcutterknife20339.jpg

[LorenzoB]

The Kershaw Burst is my favorite "Tight Budget EDC Knife", as the title says. It is a great knife and the assisted opening with flipper works awesome. This knife really feels like it is worth much more.

Only $20 at Amazon right now, and with the other deal I posted, you can by 3 for $50.

http://www.slickguns.com/product/kershaw-burst-speedsafe-knife-fsss-25-5-price-drop-record-low

[muggsy]

I am living on a modest fixed income, so my purchases of SD weapons and gear are done infrequently and with a lot of thought. I must admit, though, that it has become a hobby that brings me a lot of joy, so my heart wants to argue with my thriftiness at times! :p

So, here are my EDC knife choices to date:


The Cold Steel Roach Belly (http://www.coldsteel.com/Product/20RBC/ROACH_BELLY.aspx) fixed blade, which I obtained for like $8.77 or so. I love the shape of it and the blade is sharper than any razor blade! Very light weight. I wrapped the handle with hockey tape for better feel and grip (not pictured).
http://i1230.photobucket.com/albums/ee486/John_England/Miscellanious%20Guns%20and%20Holsters/ColdSteelRoachBellyKnife2.jpg
Bawanna did some fancy wood inlay on the grip on this one and sent it to me recently as a gift! He my daddy! :D
http://i1230.photobucket.com/albums/ee486/John_England/Miscellanious%20Guns%20and%20Holsters/attachment_zpse97d23d3.jpg
The Gerber Fast Draw (http://www.gerbergear.com/Essentials/Knives/Fast-Draw-Knife_22-47162) assisted opening folder, which I obtained for $26.59 shipped. This is an excellent EDC knife with a strong clip and great blade.
http://img.alibaba.com/wsphoto/381412761/Gerber-Fast-Draw-Textured-Nylon-Handle-floding-knife-with-clip.jpg
.
The Meyerco NeckLance (http://www.amazon.com/Meyerco-Double-Edge-Neck-Knife/dp/B001L15FP2/ref=sr_1_3?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1369354090&sr=1-3&keywords=Meyerco+NeckLance) dagger, which I obtained for $7.24 shipped! This is a serious little backup weapon. Light, thin, sturdy and easy to grasp securely.
http://www.idealoutdoors.com/images/MC5337.jpg
.
And my latest find just ordered and on the way, the CRKT M4-02S (http://www.crkt.com/M4-Stag-Scales-Stainless-Bolster-Razor-Sharp-Edge-OutBurst-LAWKS-Knife) assisted opening folder with stag scales and brushed SS bolsters, which I obtained for just $31.14 shipped! I fell in love with this one a long time ago, but wasn't going to pay $70-80 for it. But I finally found it at a price that I could not resist! :D
http://i1230.photobucket.com/albums/ee486/John_England/Miscellanious%20Guns%20and%20Holsters/CRKTM4-02SAssistOpenKnife.jpg

A total investment of <$75. What else do I need for SD and EDC functionality, and a little bling with that last one? Something for around the house? Maybe a kukri? A Bowie? a Trench Hawk (http://www.coldsteel.com/Product/90PTH/TRENCH_HAWK.aspx)?

For someone on a tight budget, I'd say you done real good, J. I'd hate to run into you in a dark alley. Just sayin.

[JFootin]

For SD at home? Then the last thing you would need is an auto or a folder. You would want a fixed blade.

Well, that's what I said. I said I think I have SD carry covered, but might possibly want something non carry-able for home, possibly a kukri. Read all the posts.

[MW surveyor]

If you want something cheap, get a machete, corn knife, brush hook, etc. You can really reach out an touch some one.

[JFootin]

For someone on a tight budget, I'd say you done real good, J. I'd hate to run into you in a dark alley. Just sayin.

LOL! I need to train with these cutters. Only for if I lose my gun(s) and can pull it from concealment. But the folders are practical for EDC and miscellanious uses.

[JFootin]

OK. Catching up with some replies. I was having probs w/ my old crotchety computer. Got online and purchased a refurbished HP desktop for $248 at Wallyworld. Also a Dell 21.5" widescreen HD LCD/LED monitor because I watch TV here, too.

CJB, I did some research and answered my own question about the push button opening. I checked NC laws about carrying knives. The CC permit only covers guns, and no knife that can be considered a weapon can be concealed. Normal pocket knives are OK. Automatic knives, in particular, are mentioned very prominently. You can open carry, but it looks like you might have to explain why you are carrying a serious looking knife. I think I read somewhere that the visible clip outside your pocket makes it open carry, but I bet that is subject to interpretation by LEOs/judges. I am pretty sure that assisted opening knives are OK, but I will discuss it more with my nephew who is a NC senator.

Barth, LorenzoB, I don't see anything that would add functionality to my collection. The Kershaw Burst is interesting with the lever that you could catch on your pants to open. And the price is right! :rolleyes: But I am satisfied with my two assisted opening knives: Gerber Fast Draw for everyday and CRKT M4-02S if I want to dress up a bit. :D

dkmathews, really? LOL! If I was working a full time job where I had to open very many boxes, that would be useful. But I am disabled, so I'm not stocking grocery shelves or anything. Actually, I have this chrome plated metal thing branded LEWIS in my tool drawer.

http://thumbs4.ebaystatic.com/d/l225/m/mBNv2_atlrtfvqXmmqQajTQ.jpg

The spring loaded shield is nice for safe handling. But my Gerber Fast Draw cuts boxes open easier and quicker.

MW surveyor, the Trench Hawk sure looks deadly. But it leaves too much handle for the BG to grab and take it away from me. I like the kukri because if he tries to grab it, he'll lose some fingers! :eek:

[getsome]

I had a Gerber Fast Draw just like the one JFootin has....(It was the one that got full of crud back in the "Pocket Lint" post I made that spun out of control) Got it at Wally World to use as an inexpensive carry knife not really expecting much but was very pleased with the quality of it...It opened and closed very well, stayed sharp and the blade didn't have any play in it...It is made in China but is of high quality so I would highly recommend the Gerber Fast Draw....

I messed up and loaned mine to my son for a Scout campout and it didn't come back so I started looking for a replacement and found the one I carry now and LOVE....It's a Benchmade 585 Mini Barrage....I gave $75.00 for it at a gun shop and it's a fantastic carry knife...The blade is super easy to open with a thumb assist and is rock solid when opened....Benchmade makes some very nice mid priced knives and I like it a lot but it doesn't do anything any better than the Gerber Fast Draw JFootin is talking about and for the $25 bucks or so the Gerber is priced at Wal Mart you can't go wrong there....

When I went looking for my lost Gerbers replacement (they were out of the Gerber at the time) I found another great deal there which I had to pick up...It's a Buck fixed blade 119 with a nice leather sheath all for $39 bucks...I felt like I was stealing the thing....I really didn't need a fixed blade but just wanted one...It's the perfect carry size with a 6" blade and feels great in the hand...High quality USA made Buck knife with a leather sheath for $39 can't be beat....Saw the same knife at Bass Pro for $59 so Wally World is a good place to find a good deal on a nice knife...

[JFootin]

That Buck knife is $55.xx at Walmart right now. $49.95 at Amazon. I do most of my shopping at those two locations anymore. Walmart has good prices and selection, plus I can use my Walmart CC. Amazon has great prices, free shipping and no tax.

That's a pretty knife, though! :D

You know, if you spend some time going page to page on the online knife retailer sites, you see that there is a huge range of prices with tons of Chinese made knives going for next to nothing and then similar looking knives ranging from tens to hundreds of dollars with no rhyme or reason except often the brand name. You can decide how much you're going to spend and then wade through the myriad of choices until you see just what you want.

I know some people have huge collections of dozens of knives, often many very similar EDC knives. My purchases are few and deliberately done, with the price being a major factor while also looking for the quality. I try to avoid jumping at something cheap because oftentimes the quality isn't there. So, what I enjoy finding is a real value that has quality despite a great price. And shopping is fun! :D

[CJB]

CJB, that's a nice looking knife. Is pushing the button all you have to do to open it?

http://www.bladehq.com/imgs/side-opening-automatics/boker-auto/boker-kalashnikov/boker-kalashnikov-01kals74bk-large.jpg

Those are available as manual opening or automatic opening. Either type uses the button to unlick the blade.

[getsome]

Since you lived in Lilburn Ga before you are probably familiar with a very high end gun shop called "Chuck's Firearms" located in the middle high dollar Buckhead Ga...Went there last year to look around at all the stuff I can't afford like the Ed Brown and Les Baer 1911's going for $2500.00 and up and I started looking at their knife case and holy cow I couldn't believe some of the prices for some of those hand made knives....I was thinking who would pay $1500.00 for a folding pocket knife but they had a bunch for that price and more so somebody must be buying um....

I wouldn't pay that much for any knife no matter who made it, thats just dog nuts...To me a knife is a tool same as a gun and all I expect is for it to work when I need it to....I can't imagine carrying a $1500.00 pocket knife and possibly losing it.....:eek:....I felt $75.00 was alot of money to pay for my Benchmade but I'm very happy with it but if I lost it or broke the blade I wouldn't have to stick my head in the oven......

[JFootin]

Since you lived in Lilburn Ga before you are probably familiar with a very high end gun shop called "Chuck's Firearms" located in the middle high dollar Buckhead Ga...Went there last year to look around at all the stuff I can't afford like the Ed Brown and Les Baer 1911's going for $2500.00 and up and I started looking at their knife case and holy cow I couldn't believe some of the prices for some of those hand made knives....I was thinking who would pay $1500.00 for a folding pocket knife but they had a bunch for that price and more so somebody must be buying um....

I wouldn't pay that much for any knife no matter who made it, thats just dog nuts...To me a knife is a tool same as a gun and all I expect is for it to work when I need it to....I can't imagine carrying a $1500.00 pocket knife and possibly losing it.....:eek:....I felt $75.00 was alot of money to pay for my Benchmade but I'm very happy with it but if I lost it or broke the blade I wouldn't have to stick my head in the oven......

No. I never went there. Bullseye in Lawrenceville was more my speed, and a new shop on Arcado Rd in Lilburn owned by some guys who do a lot of gun show business on weekends (I can't remember the name and a google search yielded nothing, but some nice guys).

[getsome]

Main Street Guns....Bought my S&W 642 snub from them last year and yes they are some great folks to deal with, nice and friendly and will price match...

[knkali]

Well, that's what I said. I said I think I have SD carry covered, but might possibly want something non carry-able for home, possibly a kukri. Read all the posts.

since you have everything covered SD wise, and fixed blade is the flavor. I think you want something with some history and culture behind it. You are left with swords or large knives. The khukuri(proper spelling) is a great knife for what you are looking for. However, a well made one might be over your price range. I rec this knife because of the cultural significance of it. In short , it is more than just a knife. Also, it is very good at what it does. If this is a bit large, I would go karambit(kerambit) for the same reasons as the khukuri. It has less reach but it is ugly brutal when things are up close and personal.

[Bawanna]

Works for me.

http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n538/hopke5/DSCN3947_zps0212d997.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/hopke5/media/DSCN3947_zps0212d997.jpg.html)

And my watermelon slicer.

http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n538/hopke5/DSCN3882_zpsde63993f.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/hopke5/media/DSCN3882_zpsde63993f.jpg.html)

[JFootin]

since you have everything covered SD wise, and fixed blade is the flavor. I think you want something with some history and culture behind it. You are left with swords or large knives. The khukuri(proper spelling) is a great knife for what you are looking for. However, a well made one might be over your price range. I rec this knife because of the cultural significance of it. In short , it is more than just a knife. Also, it is very good at what it does. If this is a bit large, I would go karambit(kerambit) for the same reasons as the khukuri. It has less reach but it is ugly brutal when things are up close and personal.

Bawanna, those are impressive! :D

KN, my thinking exactly. Having that big, heavy, sharp blade slicing the air in front of me and ready to amputate any body part that comes too close would be quite a persuader. I think I can find quality at a reasonable price. It might not have the history or prominance of more expensive ones, but I can make my own history with it.

No rush, though. I have some other priorities right now. I am very satified with the value and quality of the knives that I have been able to find on a very tight budget. I have learned so much about guns, knives, holsters, concealed carry and self defense over the past three years since I joined this forum, and I am continuing to learn more from so many more experienced members. So, I say thank you to all of you! :yo:

[knkali]

Works for me.

http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n538/hopke5/DSCN3947_zps0212d997.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/hopke5/media/DSCN3947_zps0212d997.jpg.html)

And my watermelon slicer.

http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n538/hopke5/DSCN3882_zpsde63993f.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/hopke5/media/DSCN3882_zpsde63993f.jpg.html)
Blade freak thread alert!

Bawanna, tell me about the first knife on the top of the first pic. It doesnt look like a khurkuri because the blade shape is dif, it doesnt have the shiva, and the handle, while cool, doesnt look typical. Whats up?

[Bawanna]

That is a Barong, a traditional weapon in the Philippines, basically their version of the khukri. Is a shiva the same as a cho? Don't know that term.

Greg send the Barong blade up to me, it had no handle but did have a pretty cool traditional wood sheath.

I looked at some links he sent and made the handle myself. Many have very ornate handles. I tried to come up with something close.

I wanted to try rehandling a knife, was gonna buy a handleless khukri but Greg generously offered this up.

[knkali]

That is a Barong, a traditional weapon in the Philippines, basically their version of the khukri. Is a shiva the same as a cho? Don't know that term.

Greg send the Barong blade up to me, it had no handle but did have a pretty cool traditional wood sheath.

I looked at some links he sent and made the handle myself. Many have very ornate handles. I tried to come up with something close.

I wanted to try rehandling a knife, was gonna buy a handleless khukri but Greg generously offered this up.

Ah interesting. Yes the shiva is the cho. My mistake. Thanks for the correction. I knew that too.

[Bawanna]

I knew you knew ya know?

[RevRay]

... I was thinking who would pay $1500.00 for a folding pocket knife but they had a bunch for that price and more so somebody must be buying um .... I wouldn't pay that much for any knife no matter who made it, thats just dog nuts...To me a knife is a tool same as a gun and all I expect is for it to work when I need it to ...

And a house is just a roof over your head and a floor under your feet and four walls around you. There will always be people who are willing to pay for more than just functionality for just about anything. Some can barely afford functionality regardless of the tool, and others don't know how to buy anything without it being the best that money can buy. And most of us in the middle pick and choose what we're willing to splurge on and what we feel we can do without.

[JFootin]

Here is a kukri about as genuine as you can get, and at a reasonable price.

Genuine Gurkha Kukri Knife Authentic (http://www.amazon.com/Genuine-Gurkha-Kukri-Knife-Authentic/dp/B005IR4OD4/ref=pd_sim_sbs_sg_1)

Here is a nice selection of reasonably priced kukris.

Om rhythems inc Storefront (http://www.amazon.com/gp/browse.html?ie=UTF8&marketplaceID=ATVPDKIKX0DER&me=A38YLKBBPCS5YZ)

Here's one with an 11" highly polished blade and a WW2 style gripper horn handle. I like this one!

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/81ygEG6UtKL._SL1500_.jpg

[jocko]

Works for me.

http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n538/hopke5/DSCN3947_zps0212d997.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/hopke5/media/DSCN3947_zps0212d997.jpg.html)

And my watermelon slicer.

http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n538/hopke5/DSCN3882_zpsde63993f.jpg (http://s1138.photobucket.com/user/hopke5/media/DSCN3882_zpsde63993f.jpg.html)

of them pocketable????Just sayin.:Amflag2:

[knkali]

Here is a kukri about as genuine as you can get, and at a reasonable price.

Genuine Gurkha Kukri Knife Authentic (http://www.amazon.com/Genuine-Gurkha-Kukri-Knife-Authentic/dp/B005IR4OD4/ref=pd_sim_sbs_sg_1)

Here is a nice selection of reasonably priced kukris.

Om rhythems inc Storefront (http://www.amazon.com/gp/browse.html?ie=UTF8&marketplaceID=ATVPDKIKX0DER&me=A38YLKBBPCS5YZ)

Here's one with an 11" highly polished blade and a WW2 style gripper horn handle. I like this one!

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/81ygEG6UtKL._SL1500_.jpg

Jfootin:
I did not look at the price. Didnt have to. I forbid you buying that absolute POS. The pic alone told me it is pure crap. If you buy it I will plead with the Great One to have you banned for life. Please for the love of Shiva, save up, wait , and get something of more quality. You deserve it and the Khukuri you buy will be something that you can cherish and be proud of. Then send it to Seattle edge and let him put the proper edge on it.

I would like Bawanna to tell us about the blade 3rd from the top in his pic. That Khuk speaks to me.

[Bawanna]

The third from the top is called a Trisuli Ghaule, I might have the spelling screwed up on that. It's a very good feeling blade with plenty of handle. It came wicked sharp and very pretty to look at.

Lots of heft to it.

All originally came from Himalayan Imports, the top one just below the Barong is also a gift from Greg as a project knife but I think he did all the work before he sent it, I haven't done a thing to it and it's an incredible blade.
The one that started my Khuk addiction for sure.
I made a wood sheath for that one as it didn't have one. It's in a place of honor as the kami that made it is no longer making them.

I believe it is a WWII, also plenty of heft and feel very good in the hand.

[JFootin]

Jfootin:
I did not look at the price. Didnt have to. I forbid you buying that absolute POS. The pic alone told me it is pure crap. If you buy it I will plead with the Great One to have you banned for life. Please for the love of Shiva, save up, wait , and get something of more quality. You deserve it and the Khukuri you buy will be something that you can cherish and be proud of. Then send it to Seattle edge and let him put the proper edge on it.

I would like Bawanna to tell us about the blade 3rd from the top in his pic. That Khuk speaks to me.

I'm not itching to buy that one or any kukri right now. But tell me, what makes it a POS?

[knkali]

I'm not itching to buy that one or any kukri right now. But tell me, what makes it a POS?

The first thing I saw was the blade was ground to fit the handle(at the spine). Look at Bawanna's examples. I dont see that. The angle on the edge is uneven from the reflection it makes. Shows that the workmanship is cheap. The "blood groove" is crude. The bright work on the handle is rough looking and has a non precision look. No good. Also the Cho looks stamped. A good looking cho is usually on the finer examples.

[JFootin]

The first thing I saw was the blade was ground to fit the handle(at the spine). Look at Bawanna's examples. I dont see that. The angle on the edge is uneven from the reflection it makes. Shows that the workmanship is cheap. The "blood groove" is crude. The bright work on the handle is rough looking and has a non precision look. No good. Also the Cho looks stamped. A good looking cho is usually on the finer examples.

Thanks. I am learning something here. Sounds like you know a lot about kukris. Is it OK if I run it by you before I purchase one? :)

[knkali]

of course

Last thing. The handle usually has rings on it not individual indents for each finger.

[Zippo Guy]

Getting back to the original concept of inexpensive EDC knives, I have carried a Spyderco Tenacious for the last couple of years and really like it. The blade comes from China but is easy to keep razor sharp, sells for about $20-$25, easy to open, G10 handle and is decent size. I carry mine in a belt sheath, never in the way but there when I need it.

[MikeyKahr]

I've been really happy with my Spyderco Dragonfly. I am often in cities that have strict blade laws. Less than 2.5 inches was a must for my EDC. Amazon always has great prices on Spyderco, got mine for less than half list price. ~$30. Cousin JFootin, we surely must be kin as we're always on the hunt for good deals!

[JFootin]

I've been really happy with my Spyderco Dragonfly. I am often in cities that have strict blade laws. Less than 2.5 inches was a must for my EDC. Amazon always has great prices on Spyderco, got mine for less than half list price. ~$30. Cousin JFootin, we surely must be kin as we're always on the hunt for good deals!

Add in Daddy B and we are a family of skinflints. LOL! :D

Hmm. We're supposed to have full WYSIWYG editing, but the smilies are now appearing in the edit window as two character codes instead of the actual pictures. That green wide grin smily appears as a':' and a 'D'. And if you type those two letters together, :D , you get the smily in your post.

[Tyme49]

Spyderco Delica II 4-3/4" AUS-6 Steel SpyderEdge Knife ...

... been in my pocket (on a belt-loop chain) for over a decade! ... http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b297/GHGecko/ANI_GIFs/TINYs/Smiley_Tiny_Geriactric.gif ...

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b297/GHGecko/IMAGES/Guns_etc/My_GunZ/Spyderco_Delica-II_475-in_AUS-6_Stainless-Steel_SpyderEdge_Folding-Knife_zps62fe8a24.jpg

'Not an inexpensive knife, but worth every penny IMHO!
________________________________________________

[JFootin]

Hey guys, check this out. $8.77 shipped for an aluminum handled, black bladed knife with built in line/belt cutter. The reviews are good.

MTech Firefighter Rescue Knife (http://zerbertdirect.store.rakuten.com/p/red-m-tech-fire-fighter-rescue-knife/218658667.html)

http://img.rakuten.com/PIC/27130125/0/1/500/27130125.jpg

[gb6491]

Sanrenmu 710, Ive been well pleased with mine. You can find them on ebay for under $20 shipped (well under from China sources).
There are quite a few video reviews up about them:
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=+Sanrenmu+710+&oq=+Sanrenmu+710+&gs_l=youtube.12..0l3.90280.90280.0.92918.1.1.0.0.0 .0.151.151.0j1.1.0...0.0...1ac.2.11.youtube.UZKNSC 77XMA
I have a black coated version (knife is stainless). The finish has held up okay to wear and tear, but sweat has taken some of the black off the handle.
http://i39.tinypic.com/34yec1x.jpg
Regards,
Greg

[JFootin]

Greg, I'll bet that is a good one, it being recommended by you. :yo:

Here is another CRKT at a great price, $13.95 shipped: the CRKT Drifter (http://www.amazon.com/Drifter-Stainless-Frame-Lock-Brushed-3-625inch/dp/B005X2LMO8/ref=pd_sim_sg_3).

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31X0Sn%2BkGnL.jpg

[JFootin]

http://www.ggnco.com/images/CRM4-02S/5.jpghttp://www.ggnco.com/images/CRM4-02S/4.jpg
http://images.nitrosell.com/product_images/7/1748/large-crktm402s.jpg

I got the CRKT M4-02S in the mail yesterday afternoon. It is pretty with the stag scales. It is thicker and heavier than the Gerber Fast draw, and the blade is thicker. All of the steel is shinier. Nice workmanship. The assisted opening doesn't take the blade all the way open and locked like the Gerber does. I opens it 1/2 to 3/4 of the way and I have to take it the rest of the way. A little less of a combat knife and more of a nice looking carry knife. The liner lock snaps locked very positively and there is zero blade wobble (true of the Gerber, also). There is a little knob near the front of the bolster on the right that, when pushed forward, prevents the frame lock from being released. (Kind of superfluous because the liner lock isn't going to come unlocked accidentally.) The Gerber locks and unlocks using a slide switch about 1/3 of the way back on the left scale where you can actuate it using either thumb while closing the blade with the left hand. Much easier to use, IMO. That liner lock on the CRKT is stiff and difficult to reach. I haven't yet figured out what digit to use. Maybe the right forefinger? Clumsier. But then I look at the beauty of the CRKT and remember what a great deal I got on it, and I smile! :D The Gerber is still going to be my daily carry. I really like that knife. I'll carry the CRKT when I want to dress up and show off a bit! ;)

[Bawanna]

I really like the looks of that knife. All the classic looks of a nice fixed blade knife in a folder.

[JFootin]

Hmm. The blades are identical in size, but the CRKT knife manages to be 1/2" shorter, open or closed, than the Gerber. That'll make it a little easier to throw in a pocket when you don't want to clip it. It is also not as wide because the Gerber has two finger choils and some curvature to the frame.

Aha! I just realized that the clip on the CRKT is on the opposite end from the Gerber, making it ideal for me, being a lefty, to clip it at the back corner of my left front jeans pocket! That's cool! :D (I know they can be clipped on either side, but it is better to have the smooth back side of the frame exposed rather than the blade when you want to reach past it to get something out of that pocket.) I may be carrying it more than I thought! ;) Although I am finding difficulty getting it unclipped. With the Gerber, I grab the clip with my forefinger and the frame with my thumb and pull. But the smooth SS bolster on the CRKT (just wiped with a silicone cloth) makes my thumb slide off. OK, i figured it out: I push up on the clip, rotate my hand and grab the knife using the thumb serrations at the front of the bolster. I'm happy! :)

[Tinman507]

My son gave me an S&W SWAT folding knife a couple of Christmas' ago. It's my EDC and all around everything knife. It honestly gets a lot of abuse. I've never had to "draw in anger" but have used it for all kinds of mundane tasks you'd use a regular knife for. It always cleans up and always takes an edge.

Can't beat it for the price. It's a "semi-auto" opener and locks positively.

http://www.smith-wesson.com/wcsstore/SmWesson2/upload/images/products/detail_md/197590000_01_md.jpg

http://www.smith-wesson.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product4_750001_750051_807567_-1_757864_757853_757837_ProductDisplayErrorView_N

[RevRay]

Once upon a time I thought I would test the internet to see if it was possible to find just about anything ... so I decided to Google "elephant toenail knives" to see if anybody had ever tried to make a knife with a handle made of elephant toenail. I was quite surprised by what I found. Does anybody have one of these.

http://elephanttoenails.com/


http://www.kahrtalk.com/picture.php?albumid=117&pictureid=709

[Barth]

since you have everything covered SD wise, and fixed blade is the flavor. I think you want something with some history and culture behind it. You are left with swords or large knives. The khukuri(proper spelling) is a great knife for what you are looking for. However, a well made one might be over your price range. I rec this knife because of the cultural significance of it. In short , it is more than just a knife. Also, it is very good at what it does. If this is a bit large, I would go karambit(kerambit) for the same reasons as the khukuri. It has less reach but it is ugly brutal when things are up close and personal.

Something like this? http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=z7dS8YWqymo
https://www.t-mobilepictures.com/myalbum/thumbnail/photo16/4f/37/854797f38a38__1315709045000.jpeg?tw=0&th=720&s=true&rs=false

[Siperus]

I like the Spyderco Endura 4. Solid knife with excellent steel! VG-10 is my favorite! Knife locks up very tight and can double as a EDC/ Self defense blade.



https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcS2y86vwPQ0Pg-iDrYBPrlsxMvtu3FogyDy8owUxtEbP7EzL85IMA

[Siperus]

I also carry the Benchmade Griptilian 551, but I would not consider it a budget blade at $89.99.


https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQuLW1Ftn01v2lZb2aGZ7zELIID5-sMpb7F4WXSGyJ38uFMOkmc

[olympicmotorcars]

Spyderco all the way myself, but I agree, probably not a "budget" knife.

[knkali]

Love spydies. I think they sell a lot of knife for the money. I have a few and love them BUT I wish they were manufactured in the U.S. American company but the stuff is made in Japan.

I agree with Siperus. I have grown to like the VG10 steel. It is one of my favorites now. I thought I wouldnt like it at first but it does the job well.

[Barth]

Love spydies. I think they sell a lot of knife for the money. I have a few and love them BUT I wish they were manufactured in the U.S. American company but the stuff is made in Japan.

I agree with Siperus. I have grown to like the VG10 steel. It is one of my favorites now. I thought I wouldnt like it at first but it does the job well.

the Japanese have a way with steel when making blades.
I like the hydrogen hardened H1 steel.
But my favorite is Cold Steel's VG-1 San Mai III.
I haven't actually cut anything with it.
But blade is are comprised of three layers of laminated steel.
And has a special beauty to it.

[JFootin]

Hey guys, the theme of this thread is EDC knives on a tight budget. Barth, that San Mai III is impressive, but m.s.r.p. is $700! :eek: That should go in a thread entitled "EDC Knives That Are As Expensive As High End Guns!" :)

[JFootin]

Just for a lark, I bought the Mini Cree light that they kept showing as a best deal on SlickGuns; $4.39 shipped. It uses one AA and is pretty bright. Real nice construction.

http://www.slickguns.com/sites/default/files/51VZ3gSciML._SL500_AA300_.jpg

[Barth]

Hey guys, the theme of this thread is EDC knives on a tight budget. Barth, that San Mai III is impressive, but m.s.r.p. is $700! :eek: That should go in a thread entitled "EDC Knives That Are As Expensive As High End Guns!" :)

Ops, sorry about that.
Think I got mine for about $350-$375.
But it's High End for sure.

You know how bad I am about following the rules...

For knives on a tight budget I really like Gerber
Gerber 22-41122 STL 2.0, Fine Edge Knife (Less than $10)
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/21wFKES9CsL._SX385_.jpg

[JFootin]

Ops, sorry about that.
Think I got mine for about $350-$375.
But it's High End for sure.

You know how bad I am about following the rules...

For knives on a tight budget I really like Gerber
Gerber 22-41122 STL 2.0, Fine Edge Knife (Less than $10)
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/21wFKES9CsL._SX385_.jpg

LOL! If the rules say you shouldn't thread jack and post pics of all your treasures, keep breaking them! :w00t: You are one of the most interesting posters on this forum. :yo:

Now, that Gerber looks nice! :D

[CJB]

FWIW, I just in two of the Boker Kalashnikov 74's, with plain edge in stainless, as automatic conversions. Both lock up tight, and have AUS8 steel - and ok steel (Cold Steel uses it a lot). Conversions were well done. The releases were a little stiff and gritty, but smoothed up well with a little use - sort of like a Ruger trigger. Blades are shaving sharp on both.

I bought them as give away door prizes, but would not feel bad with one in my pocket.

[340pd]

I normaly never promote buying something not made in America but if your really on a tight budget I too recommend something in the Sanrenmu lineup. The 710 is an excellent value. I own one and it sits on my workbench most of the time. At it's price point I have never seen anything comparable. I have also owned a couple of Chris Reeve's folders and I was actually afraid to cut with them. Something about cutting stuff with a $400 Mnandi made me squirm. If your budget is up to it, Kershaw offers some great products for a few dollars more than the Chinese knives. The Kershaw Leek is an affordable option that looks and cuts very nice.

[Cokeman]

I carry this every day. They are around $30.

http://i1142.photobucket.com/albums/n605/Like-A-BossLOL/Buck20Vantage20Avid20Small20Model20341GUS-B.jpg

[JFootin]

Amazon is running a deal now on Kershaw knives.

http://www.slickguns.com/product/get-10-your-50-kershaw-knife-purchase-amazon

Have a look at this Kershaw Crio (http://www.slickguns.com/product/kershaw-cryo-speed-safe-folding-knife-4995-10-sh) assisted opening knife. I especially like the opening flipper highlighted in the video. I need two members to go together with me and get 3 for $50! :D Just kidding. The shipping to 3 different places would eliminate any savings.

[JFootin]

Actually, I like this Kershaw Burst (http://www.amazon.com/Kershaw-1970-Burst-Speedsafe-Knife/dp/B005UE6BNG/ref=sr_1_26?ie=UTF8&qid=1370392804&sr=8-26&keywords=kershaw+knives) better. The scales are textured nylon for grip and the clip can be mounted on either side.

[JFootin]

And, boy, this OD-2 (http://www.amazon.com/Kershaw-Knife-8CR13MOV-Stainless-Steel/dp/B001PM9FEE/ref=sr_1_38?ie=UTF8&qid=1370393717&sr=8-38&keywords=kershaw+knives) is a neat looking knife.

[Bawanna]

Your obsessed Jfootin! Calm yourself. I find thinking about stuff I can't afford helps with this.

[JFootin]

Your obsessed Jfootin! Calm yourself. I find thinking about stuff I can't afford helps with this.

OK. How's this?

http://i1230.photobucket.com/albums/ee486/John_England/JENGLAND-PC/My%20Pictures/Ferrari/Ferrari599GTBFiorano_zps95bdca57.jpg

[Bawanna]

A little bit extreme but that's the idear.