Looking for a cheap folder

[Iain]

SOG Striker 1/Gerber Gatormate/others?

What do you guys think of this

High quality AUS 8 Stainless Steel (good I read)
Serrated or non-serrated blade
Glass reinforced Zytel handle
Reversible bayonet clip

Blade Hardness - Rc 57-58 (someone on here said look for 57-59)
Blade Length - 2.5" x 0.090"
Overall Length - 5.75"
Weight - 2 oz

That is $58, am a Brit so choices can be somewhat limited. Any other suggestions? Annoying thing is that over there you guys can get this for the same amount in dollars as I pay in pounds.

And - serrated or non-serrated?

Amazon.com Review
The introduction of the new Flash line of folding knives debuts SOG¿s new patent pending S.A.T. (SOG Assisted Technology). This mechanism helps propel the blade open once the operator has initiated the one-handed opening action. They¿re fast as lightning, safe, and provide an extremely strong blade lock. This opening action is uniquely different from all others with its fast start and power curve throughout the movement of the blade. When closing the blade into the handle you actually feel as if you are cocking a side arm as the blade is held securely inside the handle. Invented by Spencer Frazer, who always manages to come up with something cleverly different, S.A.T. is the framework for this new line of lightweight folders. The piston lock is easily released with a sliding button. SOG also had the foresight to incorporate an additional safety lock that gives added security when the blade is closed. Note that when the switch shows red¿you are ready to go. In addition to SAT, the handles (glass reinforced Zytel OR machined aluminum) are contoured with a new ergonomic sensibility that makes the knife a pleasure to use. SOG has also incorporated a new reversible, bayonet-mounted clip that extends from the back of the handle for the lowest, discreet carry possible and dual thumb studs for ambidextrous opening.

 

[Iain]

There is this too:

''The Gator® is one of the best folding knives you can own. Its handle design, mechanics and assembly combine to make it superior to any other knife in its class.
Patented handle technology sets this knife apart. Soft Kraton® rubber is moulded around and through a Zytel® frame, forming a 1 piece handle that is more durable than metal,yet soft and comfortable to grip and use, even when wet.
The Gator-Mate is now available with a drop point blade made from ATS-34 stainless steel, the choice of custom makers because it holds an edge longer than other stainless steels.
The Gator-Mate has an option of a serrated edge and comes with a Limited Lifetime Warranty.''

Is a 2.75'' blade at 3.2oz

 

[hso]

ATS is a "better" steel than AUS-8, but a properly heat treated 8 is still very good. I personally like the SOGs over the Gerbers (SOG is a knife company run by knife people, Gerber is a knife company run by guys in ties that make scissors)

 

[Iain]

To complicate things further there is this

''Strong & light with an integrated tungsten carbide glass-breaker for home and auto emergency access. Toughened safety glass and double glazing are no obstacle to an easy and rapid escape in case of fire or emergency. Incredible value for money, and gives terrific peace of mind for you and your loved ones.''

AUS-8A steel

'' The Meyerco relies upon Japanese premium grade AUS-8 to provide it's cutting power. This extremely good grade of steel cuts with finesse and the knife comes with a razor sharp edge. The part serrated edge configuration will cut through a seatbelt in an emergency situation and the blunt ended blade tip assures maximum safety during use.''

 

[Shag]

I have played with a SOG Flash II. It was decent although I did not like it as much as my Kershaw Blackout. I would look at the Blackout and the Benchmade Griptilian and Mini Griptilian as well.



Shaun

 

[Combat-wombat]

Well, what's the most you can spend?

 

[CWL]

I'd reccomend a CRKT M16 folder. You can buy on them on ebay for around US$30 + shipping to the UK.

here's a retailer: http://store.yahoo.com/emergencyoptions/m16s.html

They are similiar to the SOG design you describe including availability in aluminum or zytel scales.

I like mine because it is a fine and workable blade, I have carried it discretely in USA, Europe and Asia and I wouldn't give a hoot if I lost or broke it because I can always buy another one for cheap.

 

[Brass]

I would recommand any of the plastic Spydercos. Delica and Endura are good choices. Sometimes you will find good deal online. ( i bought my Delica for $24.95 ) Knifecenter.com and 1sks.com are a good place to start. And don't forget the Ebay!

 

[DTLoken]

Look into a zytel handled CRKT M-16.


Durable, well made and cheap. I carry one daily. I paid all of $30 for it, so if I break/lose it no big loss.

 

[MJRW]

I've got the half serrated one in my pocket right now. Went with half serrated figuring the blade would dull and I would want to cut stuff before I got around to sharpening it. Its been great as a general tool. Its not a fighting knife if you are looking for something like that.

 

[Okiecruffler]

Another vote for the CRKT M16

If you can get your hands on one. I've been carrying mine around now for several years, starting to look pretty scuffed up, but still scary sharp. I also have a smaller CRKT Mirage for more social situations.

 

[Correia]

Take a look at these. One of our THR members is the dealer. They are supposed to be excellent knives for the money.

www.madogre.com/Interviews/OgreKnives.htm

 

[George Hill]

I think they are. That's why I am selling them. The MT025 is compairable to a mini afck in size and the utility you can get out of it. It's my every other day carry knife, and my "Going to a picknic and will have to slice juicy fruit and stuff so it's going to get gunked up so when I get home I'll just toss it into the dishwasher knife". The others are bigger.
From those who have purchased one of these from me... I've not had a single person with negative feedback about them. I think they are every bit as good as Columbia River... especially with a little work to them. And I'd be happy to do that for you.
I've had people tell me that they are retiring the Cold Steel knives, or replacing a more expensive knife with it to spare it abuse. Just like why I carry one... my working knife.

The SOG Flash... I've looked at them... tried them... I like them. Not a bad choice at all. I was looking at the little one and it was tempting. However, I like the Kershaw Onion knives better. My BOA is my baby. The Blackout... Outstanding knife. Look at one of those... it was the Knife of the Year couple years back but has been under rated ever since. They are not very spendy at all. My friend loves his "Chive", a small assisted opener that is super fast and scary sharp.

 

[Penforhire]

I still love my Kershaw Whirlwind. Have to admit the 440 blade doesn't hold a scary sharp edge all that well. On the serrated-thing, I prefer a serrated section because my knife is a working knife. The serious guys here will all say you should carry a defensive knife AND a working knife (if you need it).

 

[George Hill]

Who doesn't need a working knife? Man Kind's first tool! 440 might not hold an edge like some of the other blade steels out there... granted. But your 440 folder will be 10 times sharper than that serated butter knife they give you at the Steak House. I think the sharpest is Spiderco's GIN. That stuff is amazing. Super sharp and stays that way forever. Easy to sharpen too.

 

[coldshot03/04]

ColdSteel.

 

[Phantom Warrior]

Smith & Wesson S.W.A.T.

I'm a committed Benchmade fan. But I give S.W.A.T.s a very respectable second place. They are extremely solid, well-made knives and can be gotten for $25 (basic version) to $55 (carbon fiber handles, Skunkabilly?). That's US dollars... You can get a good deal on them at knifecenter.com
Here

They generally come w/ nice aluminum handles and a very solid liner lock. As I mentioned above you can shell out more money and get options like carbon fiber handles or a frame lock.

Regarding serrated vs. non-serrated, in my experience serrated is better if you are going to be doing a lot of sawing back and forth (thick cardboard, rope, what have you). If you want a smooth cut (envelopes, fruit, ???) I've found the serrations will snag and slow down the cut. My $2*10^-2...

And now, in a moment of levity, BUY A BENCHMADE!!!!!