How do you choose your knife?

Dean51 · **Reply #30 on:** January 06, 2017, 04:10:56 AM

This took a little thought I've been using knives so long, I just know it's right when I see it.
A knife has to work as a package so form follows function. At the same time no ugly knives need apply.
Blade length. It doesn't matter closed length is what I look for in an every day knife. It has to fit comfortably in my pocket.
Blade shape. Is always a consideration but I have a variety of shapes I like. It will depend on what the knife is used for.
Blade material. I can be a bit picky about that. I like carbon steel but I really like the newer stainless steels.
Handle material. As long as it's comfortable I like a lot of materials from synthetic to bone but stacked leather is a no go. No finger groves, they limit how you can use the knife.
Lock type isn't relevant, I prefer to rely on safe handling techniques. If I need a lock I'll reach for a fixed blade. So that rules out thumb studs, holes in the blade, assisted, flippers, etc.
I won't look at a black blade.

Old Boy · **Reply #31 on:** January 06, 2017, 06:32:20 AM

You and I have the same list. Further down the list:

When I bought my Cold Steel American Lawman I really liked how the choil enabled me to choke up on the blade for fine work. Much better than most knives. Also love that big satisfying thwack of the triad lock.

I recently bought a CRKT drifter, and the ratio of value vs. price blew me away. Cheap but performed and handled above its price.

A deep carry clip is a nice to have but not a must. Retention is more key.

Not on my criteria but I've noticed a bit of surge in multifunctional knives like the LM Crater, DP Hest, etc. I imagine some folks have that on their criteria. Me not so much as some models seem to be an invitation to hurt yourself. No disrespect intended to each his own.

Looks like I found another lockback brother

Not many of us nowadays.

Gerhard Gerber · **Reply #32 on:** January 06, 2017, 08:29:45 AM

Few difficult questions here, especially when it comes to looks....

For myself, a knife needs to be aesthetically pleasing, proportions correct and all that..........but sort of seen from the corner of your eye.

Example I need to mention again is the Spyderco Atlantic Salt - nothing wrong with the knife proportionally, but also not really pretty.....
However, first time I held it in my hand and experienced the ergos, it suddenly became irresistibly pretty....

Quote