Oxidized vs Stainless finish

[Rodion]

I'm a college student from Israel, assembling a bug-out-bag for the summer. Hi.

I want to get the Swisstool Spirit and have a choice of either the normal version, or the black, oxidized S.

Since the latter has a regular knife blade, doesn't shine and is, quite apparently, black, it seems like the obvious choice. However, I've never dealt with oxidized steel before. Is there some major flaw I need to be aware of?

Thanks.

[Benner]

The main issue members have with the Black oxide finish is that it marks and scratches easily.

I personally like it though. 

[Mike, Lord of the Spammers!]

Welcome to the forum mate

I'd go for the stainless version mate, not only does it age better, but in a 'bug out' situation it could serve as a signalling device/heliograph

[edap617]

and feel at home Rodion.

Eddie

[Roadie]

Welcome to the forum mate

I'd go for the stainless version mate, not only does it age better, but in a 'bug out' situation it could serve as a signalling device/heliograph

I'd go with the stainless too, it gives you scissors as well as the reasons listed above, and the knife shape isn't as bad as you'd think. And if the serrations aren't to your liking just remove them with a bit of patience

[Anthony]

I've been EDCing the black Spirit and like it a lot.  It gets a nice dull black patina after some use.

If you'd like scissors in your BOB, I suggest a Leatherman Micra;  small but powerful, and has some small drivers inside that might come in handy.

[I'm Still Bison]

Welcome to the forums! My only experience with the Spirit is the original stainless steel version,and I love it.I don't know how much you're going to put in your B.O.B,but in addtion to the Micra, I'd  recommend a Gerber Clutch or Leatherman Squirt P4.Think of them as tweezers on steroids.

[ducktapehero]

Seriously, there's nothing wrong with black, it just scratches a bit but it's nothing bad. If I were in your shoes I'd pick the one that had the assortment of tools I liked better. I have a stainless "S" version and I love having both a plain and serrated blade. Yea I lose the scissors but between the two blades I can usually make do.

[Benner]

I actually like the way the BO wears.    Nothing wrong with a few battle marks on a tool.

[Anthony]

I actually like the way the BO wears.    Nothing wrong with a few battle marks on a tool.

Here here!  I'm almost embarrassed to carry a pristine tool!