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Can I please get one of those to go with my beginners knife collection the first one you showed have few Spyderco knives a few ballisongs a few gravity but killing my bank account don't ever get knives sent to me
Finally got to see the sage 5 get some attention. Such an underrated knife. Wish they would give it the para 3 treatment and give us some steel options
Used to carry a spyderco sage 5 lightweight when I was a cook. Incredible knife. Feels much more sturdy then the para 3 lightweight but really isn’t much heavier
Great list overall. I’ve got 8 outta your ten (nine if you count the alternative to the OTF) and some I have multiple versions of. If you haven’t seen them, several dealers have the Para 3 lightweight in S90V for $140 right now which is a really good value when you consider that Spyderco is highly regarded for their quality heat treats. Very happy to see the Sage 5 getting some love as well, it’s a very underrated knife in my humble opinion.
My guess there was a lot of people that missed it on the first run (guilty as charged) and it’s taken them this long to get back around to it because all the other modes they produce. Supposedly they’re tooling up for another run of tanto PM2s for BladeHQ cause they’ve had so many requests for it.
I also have 8 of 10 of these knives so your solid list serves to reinforce many of the very solid decisions that I have made in building a knife collection. And many of those have been based on your reviews. Thanks MC!!!
I am glad to see the sage 5 make the list. It is probably the most underrated and underappreciated compression lock model. I would have thrown the Conspirator in that button lock honorable mentions, especially if you are a fan of the Shaman.
I'm glad the Doug Ritter-Hogue makes the list. I held out and got the 1st run of the mini. It has the smoothest action. It's ergonomically perfect, and it just looks incredible. Good to know an expert agrees. 👍🏼
I loved the Spyderco Sage 5, but in my opinion the wire clip was the fatal flaw with that knife. I ended up losing one after it fell out of my pocket and I didn't notice immediately that it was gone. After I bought another to replace the one I lost, I ended up bending the wire clip on it not once but twice. Thankfully Spyderco was kind enough to send me several replacements for free. However, I wasn't doing anything crazy with the knife. It just ended up bending after accidentally rubbing my side against a hard surface like the corner of a countertop. (I work in construction). Another problem with the Sage 5 was after a few months of carrying it the carbon fiber laminate peeled off on the side. I'm not even sure why. I never got it wet or did anything to it. I'm still a fan of Spyderco knives, but now I carry a shaman. The shaman has more heft to it so I can actually feel it in my pocket. And I have equipped it with a deep carry titanium pocket clip that is much less likely to bend.
I’ve tried so many knives over the years and I always go back to my SOG Vulcan Tanto. The arc-lock is the best period as far as I’m concerned. It’s discontinued so if you got one you’re lucky. I like Kershaws..good bang for your buck.
Excellent list MC! Happy to see the Para 3 still make it on. Number 3 came as a little bit of a shock because I actually remember the nitpicks/issues you had in your reviews of the Atom and Neutron actually kept me from ever picking one up a couple years ago😂 I will say that the scales and overall finish on the titanium are some of the most gorgeous ones I've ever seen; TRM seems to be leaps and bounds ahead from where they were in 2020. Looking forward to this type of video content more often, keep em' coming boss💪
Agree with nearly all of these- though I also think about the 5th carry/smaller options like: - civivi baby banter (nitro-v) - Spyderco dragonfly 2 (K390) - knafs lander
I have 3 of the mentioned blades, American Lawman, Ad20.5 and the Doug Ritter and they are true a delight to carry and use. My new favorite the Doug Ritter RSK g2 mini, I loved it! Two honorable mentions on the heavy side the Chaves ultramar street and the mini adamas, they always find a space in my rotation!
This was very interesting as I started collecting knives less than a year ago. I had no real history as a knife enthusiast other than the common experience of growing up with a Buck 110, so when I finally started collecting most of my early choices were unqualified, unbiased, and merely based on simply what just appealed to me. A little later I "discovered" knife reviewing channels such as yours, became more informed, and probably made some choices that I might not have early on, and though my top 10 would undoubtedly differ from yours, here's the really interesting thing. I have 6 of the knives on your list...which says nothing about me, something about you, and everything about the greatness of a knife, (or knives) that would make the list of both novice and expert alike. Opinions will vary as they rise, fall and swirl around in an endless ocean of sources...but simple truth has a knack of floating to the top...Good is good! 😁 I very much enjoy and appreciate your channel sir.
It’s a hard list to come up with but I thank you for putting it out there. For me my buck 110 was my go to for about 20 years and now I have been carrying my benchmade adamas with a custom leather sheath for belt carry. Yes a little Harvey for an edc but it does everything I need it it do. Thank you for your great content bud and have a great day 👊🙏
Amazing list! I have 5 on the list, and with the ones I have my order would be; 4. Para 3 3. Sage 5 (one in titanium scales, and one in carbon fiber scales) 2. TRM Atom/Neutron and 1. Demko 20.5 shark foot in smooth titanium. I have had the Demko drop point in the laminate carbon fiber, and was amazed at how much the titanium made a difference! It is an absolute banger of a knife, and such a joy to carry.
Ive never clicked a video so fast. Im kinda surprised the benchmade freak or mini freek didnt make it. Most people i interact with like it a lot more then the bugout or 940 (myself included)
He's never really seemed to be the biggest axis lock advocate, but with that said the one knife that he praises unconditionally in an axis style lock is the Ritter/Hogue RSK MK1 so it kinda makes sense since the nature of a top 10 in general is a fairly small list.
lol, Don’t even pretend that a benchmade 940 shouldn’t be near the top of an all time edc knife list. I like Benchmade but I also share many of the complaints other people have and their pricing is just absurd….especially how many other companies have emerged offering knives with similar materials for 1/2 the price, but the 940 specifically is an all time top edc.
@mattcourtney710 It's more to do with the shock of the pricing far north of other brands of similar or better quality, not so much the product/quality itself. Your dollar may go further (materials used, design, styling) elsewhere. I enjoy mine, but I have only bought when they have offered extreme discounts that place the discounted price at a semi-tolerable range.
I recently started collecting EDCs. Before this video was made I owned 3 Demkos. You can get a light weight, polymer 20.5 for $120. and its beyond bang for the buck.
I've been building a Cold Steel collection for the past few months. I have the AD 10, 15, Lawman, Code 4, and 20 or so others...but I recently got around to picking up a Range Boss in the dark earth brown, and I am surprised at how much I like this knife! It stays in my pocket and never gets time off! Cheers.
For me I’d find a place on the list for the Spartan Astor. Incredible value, great steel with the CTS-XHP, love the Les George blade profile and carbon fiber scales. Tough user that looks refined. I got mine for $130
For me an EDC has allways been a relatively cheap damascus knive that is not too large (not to intimidate which is really important to me) a Mcusta MC-0031D Shinra Kasumi . That is a really nice knife.
Absolutely love this knife too Kyle. Lot of blade, premium steel, Sebenza smooth action and rust proof. Ergonomics could be improved slightly, but near perfect knife IMHO.
I may have a few different options but I definitely agree with the majority of your list all of those are definitely great edc knives thanks for sharing bud!
I picked up a mini griptilian in 154cm about 8 years ago. I just couldn't get myself to like it enough. The plastic handle felt so coarse and made me cringe in and out of the pocket. I put it away and carried a cheap Kershaw instead. Last year I pulled it out of the drawer, dusted it off and put some AWS aluminum scales on it. Now it sees a lot more pocket time and i retired the kershaw. Overall I wouldn't recommend the price of this combo but it was nice to be able to spice up the mini griptilian into something more enjoyable.
Thank you! I have wanted to get a smaller pocket knife to keep in my purse, I really like that Ritter Hogue in the mini size - it's just what I've been looking for!
Hogue Deka, Pyrite, and AD 20.5 are three of my all time frequent carriers. Love them to death and I actually have three different Pyrites; fun fact, my G10 pyrite seems to have a much smoother button than the two metal ones which makes having the light weight G10 more palpable over the steel ones. I love all three but I just found that interesting. Great video love your new ideas to do more of these more frequently I feel like they tell us a lot of information in a short amount of time all in one video. Well done sir!
@@SussexEDC absolutely! I don’t want to take anything away from the steel versions I love how solid and hefty they feel but the G10 does not get the love it deserves! I’ll definitely look out for your video
Absolutely fantastic video. Loved watching it. You are obviously patient and ofcourse very knowledgeable, but this was also a lot of fun. Thank you brother 🤜🏽🤛🏽
My favorite and best in my opinion is the TRM Atom. It’s a mix between a delica and a PM2, but it is lite and as customizable as a Bugout. Which all three of those were my favorite at a time. If you have smaller hands then the Neuron is awesome. Only bad thing is getting ahold of a TRM.
You came to the right conclusion. The Demko is the best (stock) knife on the market. I have the 3V CF version. Its the only knife ive ever owned that has literally nothing wrong with it. Good steel? Check Nice stonewash? Check Good blade shape? Check Nice gymping? Check Fast opening? Check Good lock? Check Solid lock up? Check Lightweight? Check Thin handles? Check Deep carry clip options? Check Ergonomic? Check Fidget friendly? Check Good sharpening choil? Check Hidden liners? Check.
I was surprised you put the Sage 5 on your list. It’s a bit of a sleeper but honestly it’s my favorite knife. After that probably the shaman and the delica k390 or TR-3
I wanted a para 3 so bad but after comparing, the sage 5 (G10) is just the best edc knife. Period. I just lost mine hiking and every time I needed to cut something I was looking through my basket of knives for my sage 5. I think that says it all. Going to Spyderco to buy another one tomorrow.
I've, recently, been EDC'ing the Boker AK74 in XHP(bought several years ago on Black Friday for $49.95) and since I live in Texas, I can carry whatever I want(pretty much). One thing about the XHP is its awesome steel but....HOWEVER it can be a bit of a PITA to put an edge(back) on....I also EDC a TOPS UTE (and, usually, a P365 but that is another discussion)....and the UTE is one of the most useful and indestructible knives on the planet(and used to cost less than 1/2 what they do NOW.....oi...) I'm 61yo, and have been a 'knife guy' since the early 1990's and EDC'd a Benchmade Mini-Reflex 2500(YES, the original, not the 2550) im CM154 for almost 20 years(and still have that one).....and I wont EDC anything that costs more than $125(used to be $100), anymore.....older....wiser.....less brainwashed by THE HYPE!!! I can offer one very relevant piece of knife advice.... YOU are the ONLY one who will know that you didnt spend $400(or whatever) on a knife....and YOU are the only one who will cry when you lose/get stolen/break/whatever a $400 knife. Simplify, carry a spare -carry a throw away, too!!! but dont spend a LOT of money on an 'EGO BOOSTER'...THAT IS A FOOLS ERRAND!!! You are spending to prop up somebody ELSE'S EGO!!! You will profit, in the end. and, YES, I own several knives that are(NOW) worth $$$$ on the market....but i didnt pay nearly that for them.....and I dont EDC any of them, either. Dont fall for THE HYPE!!!!
Such a great run-down. Agree with so many of these options. The Pyrite is such an impressive knife for the money. I'd maybe add the WE Banter to the list as it's not flashy, but such a useful every day knife.
The Kizer Towser deserves some love on most top 10 list. I have the most expensive version of the Towser (Elmax/Fat Carbon), but even at $220, it's a knife that is worth the cost to me. The action on the Kizer Towser, is unbelievably smooth.
Right as I pulled out my Sage 5 wondering if it might make the cut, I was extremely pleased to see it pop up on the list. Wow! I have a Griptillian so the Ritter Hogue is close enough for my budget. Need to check out the Pyrite and Penguin next!
Demko 20.5 Titanium, Spyderco para 3, We Roxi 3 Titanium, We titanium Praxis, We Sublgrater, Hogue Deka, Benchmade mini crooked river, Benchmade Osborne, Benchmade Bugout with after market scales, Kiser drop bear.
Nice list! I have the Deka in magnacut w/ OG aluminium scales, multiple para 3s (my current favourite is in s45vn with AWT agent scales) and the Demko AD20.5 in 3v w/ flytanium Ti scales and backspacer and they’re each top favourites of mine
nice list overall but in my humble opinion the Bugout definitely deserves a spot on a top 10 EVER list for edc knives. even if it isn’t king of the EDC lightweights anymore, its design pretty much paved the way for other great knives (Deca, Para 3 LW, etc.) to exist in the first place. love it or hate it, gotta give credit where credit is due.
Imagine if all these knives and this list existed 15 years ago! We would all have spent so much less money finding out what is good! Fantastic list, thanks for posting it!
Talking bang for buck edc knife, I recently purchased a Kizer Escort with the Richlite handle, their lock bar is amazing and the action is super smooth, my fav knife atm. Going for a Kizer XL assassin for my next.
It's a great knife for sure, if you like big knives with lots of utility. For my first I went pm2 aka crucarta and it's just the right size, blad and handle. My only complaint is the comp lock hurts to use after awhile. There is no one and done for me though, def need a smaller one so dragonfly or similar maybe and carry both
Wish the sage 5 at least had some texturing on the lock where you engage it, let alone some contouring bc it’s very awkward and uncomfortable to manipulate the lock. Could even use some better access to the lock bar, through a cutout in the frn
The QSP is incredible. And the price is insane. Wish they would make the penguin plus in a button lock. Frame locks are wrenched. Just don’t buy the CJRB through Knife Center the worst experience ever changing from out of stock to pre order without notifying me. So a month later I finally got it. After they wanted to charge me extra if I wanted the rest of my order.
@@SussexEDC yeah I thought that was weird that the mini was more expensive. Don’t have one but I’ve been debating whether to buy one or not. I like small knives but having a bigger hand sometimes they aren’t always a great option.
@@dawg4135 I really like it, but I do struggle to open it compared to another small knife like the Civivi Baby Banter for example. It's better now it's worn in a bit though.
@@dawg4135 I think the addition to the cost on the mini is because it comes in 14C28N and not D2, however the cost of steel is probably so minimal to these companies so who knows right? lol
@@SussexEDC that’s the same problem I had with the Knafs Lander. It was a pain in the ass to open based on the placement of the thumb stud and no indentation on the scale. But it’s SLOWLY getting better. I’ll have to pull the trigger on the QSP. I love the other versions so why not.
Yes!!!! I’m sitting here flicking my knife (AD 20.5 Carbon handles and 20CV clip point blade steel) and it ends up being metals number 1 pick! Wooohooo not only do I have many of these knives in my collection but I’m currently pocketing the number one. Love it. Thanks for the video so happy i stuck around till the last choice 🫡👍
I just picked up a QSP penguin for my secondary knife and its great. Got S35VN steel with some really cool scales. Sharp as hell! Eyeing more from QSP. Possibly the Penguin Plus or the new Swordfish.
My old edc was a benchmade presidio. But all the screws fell out so I had to retire it before it fell apart completely lol. Just recently managed to find some replacement screws so I might get to put it back to work. After that tho my edc became the benchmade bugout, then to ow I carry the civivi praxis and the akc f20 otf. Gotta say tho, I like the praxis more than the bugout. It feels way more sturdy and better balanced in the hand
Awesome . I purchased the GT Recon 40 based on your recommendation and out of all my knives it get the most pocket time. Just a tremendous knife all around and probably the last otf I'll buy.
Against my own well-being I am going to share with you the name of the best knife. Ready? It is the Kershaw Chill. Best bang for the buck. I am amazed at how it keeps the sharpness for a long time. Hope you don’t pay attention so that it remains cheap. P.S. If you pay more than $50 you are collecting or hoarding, not working nor camping.
DLC 3v Clip Point AD20.5. Dropped like an extra 300 on custom Ti scales and deep carry clip. There is no reason for me to ever buy another knife, I've had it 2 years... But I want at least one more in megaslice.
Pretty solid list. But I’m not a big Para 3 fan. The ergonomics are good, but I don’t think you get enough knife for the pocket space you’re giving up.
How did the Sebenza not make the top 10? I know its crazy when a knife cost more than a Glock lol (in Some cases more than a Berretta. Just curious as I see it as the gold standard. Happy to not see Benchmade which might upset a lot of people. I know they make good stuff, I just refuse to spend my hard earned money on them after seeing their stance on the right to bear arms. I have close to 8 Microtechs and have seen a drastic change in there quality and agree with you on the OTF. Keep up the good work!
Hi there. I know it's not my top ten, it's yours, and you manage to put different kind of knives in this top 10. So i'm not commenting to correct you, just for the talk and the sharing. Great top ten, in which I would replace some of these to put a We Banter, awesome little EDC, and some contoured micarta comfortable handles, as the Kizer T1 or the Civivi Sokoke. Maybe putting an alternative to the Sage, with the Native. I know, not the same fun locking system, but quite same ergo, and i love the back lock and the slender design with one curve from the edge of the handle toward the blade tip, with some more alternative with the steels (Magnacut incoming on this). Greetings. Edit : usefull video for anyone beginning a collection, and maybe lost inside the river of available knives in shops.
Ugh. Agreed on the cheapest AD20.5. I don't mind the AUS-8, but those scales! They make the knife feel so cheap and just awkward in the hand. I regret not spending more, I'll probably try and find new scales
It’s a great blade, but too big in the pocket and blade length for most edc. I take the Manix when on a hike, but for work (IT office) it’s the lil native or baby banter.
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Can I please get one of those to go with my beginners knife collection the first one you showed have few Spyderco knives a few ballisongs a few gravity but killing my bank account don't ever get knives sent to me
Finally got to see the sage 5 get some attention. Such an underrated knife. Wish they would give it the para 3 treatment and give us some steel options
I agree man. I have a Sage 5 in M4 blade hq did a while ago and it’s awesome. Would love to see some more flavors! Elmax especially
The Penguin is like one of my favs. Between it or the Elementum every person would like one or the other.. they are great quality and timeless looks.
Used to carry a spyderco sage 5 lightweight when I was a cook. Incredible knife. Feels much more sturdy then the para 3 lightweight but really isn’t much heavier
Great list overall. I’ve got 8 outta your ten (nine if you count the alternative to the OTF) and some I have multiple versions of. If you haven’t seen them, several dealers have the Para 3 lightweight in S90V for $140 right now which is a really good value when you consider that Spyderco is highly regarded for their quality heat treats. Very happy to see the Sage 5 getting some love as well, it’s a very underrated knife in my humble opinion.
I’ve seen the para3 lw s90v is out again, I picked one up a year and a half ago. Wonder why they did the same version again 🤔
My guess there was a lot of people that missed it on the first run (guilty as charged) and it’s taken them this long to get back around to it because all the other modes they produce. Supposedly they’re tooling up for another run of tanto PM2s for BladeHQ cause they’ve had so many requests for it.
I also have 8 of 10 of these knives so your solid list serves to reinforce many of the very solid decisions that I have made in building a knife collection. And many of those have been based on your reviews. Thanks MC!!!
Just got my knife center exclusive carbon fiber and 3v AD20.5 and can’t stop playing with it.
Hogue deka in magnacut is my favorite
I have that one in the Scorpion version from SMKW, and it’s awesome! Currently it’s that or the Kunwu Pulsar fighting for pocket time
@Destro
Mine is in Arctic storm. Have original goat scales on the way for my other one.
I’m a meh on mine with og scales. Spyderco is just the top for me
The reason I say that is because thumb studs and flippers are so cheesy IMO. Stud gets in the way of the blade cutting path and is just Chines.
I am glad to see the sage 5 make the list. It is probably the most underrated and underappreciated compression lock model.
I would have thrown the Conspirator in that button lock honorable mentions, especially if you are a fan of the Shaman.
The sage 5 has the best engineered compression lock but loses to the pm2 and 3 in ergos imo, depending on hand size
I don't know why the Sage 5 LW doesn't get more love. It's by far my favorite folding Spyderco that I have ever used!!!
I'm glad the Doug Ritter-Hogue makes the list. I held out and got the 1st run of the mini. It has the smoothest action. It's ergonomically perfect, and it just looks incredible. Good to know an expert agrees. 👍🏼
Getting a mini Ritter in Magnacut...🤣
I loved the Spyderco Sage 5, but in my opinion the wire clip was the fatal flaw with that knife. I ended up losing one after it fell out of my pocket and I didn't notice immediately that it was gone. After I bought another to replace the one I lost, I ended up bending the wire clip on it not once but twice. Thankfully Spyderco was kind enough to send me several replacements for free. However, I wasn't doing anything crazy with the knife. It just ended up bending after accidentally rubbing my side against a hard surface like the corner of a countertop. (I work in construction). Another problem with the Sage 5 was after a few months of carrying it the carbon fiber laminate peeled off on the side. I'm not even sure why. I never got it wet or did anything to it.
I'm still a fan of Spyderco knives, but now I carry a shaman. The shaman has more heft to it so I can actually feel it in my pocket. And I have equipped it with a deep carry titanium pocket clip that is much less likely to bend.
I’ve tried so many knives over the years and I always go back to my SOG Vulcan Tanto. The arc-lock is the best period as far as I’m concerned. It’s discontinued so if you got one you’re lucky. I like Kershaws..good bang for your buck.
Excellent list MC! Happy to see the Para 3 still make it on. Number 3 came as a little bit of a shock because I actually remember the nitpicks/issues you had in your reviews of the Atom and Neutron actually kept me from ever picking one up a couple years ago😂 I will say that the scales and overall finish on the titanium are some of the most gorgeous ones I've ever seen; TRM seems to be leaps and bounds ahead from where they were in 2020. Looking forward to this type of video content more often, keep em' coming boss💪
Trm has the best customer relations iv seen from a company. There knives are impeccable. Try them now. You won't be upset
Agree with nearly all of these- though I also think about the 5th carry/smaller options like:
- civivi baby banter (nitro-v)
- Spyderco dragonfly 2 (K390)
- knafs lander
I have 3 of the mentioned blades, American Lawman, Ad20.5 and the Doug Ritter and they are true a delight to carry and use. My new favorite the Doug Ritter RSK g2 mini, I loved it! Two honorable mentions on the heavy side the Chaves ultramar street and the mini adamas, they always find a space in my rotation!
This was very interesting as I started collecting knives less than a year ago. I had no real history as a knife enthusiast other than the common experience of growing up with a Buck 110, so when I finally started collecting most of my early choices were unqualified, unbiased, and merely based on simply what just appealed to me. A little later I "discovered" knife reviewing channels such as yours, became more informed, and probably made some choices that I might not have early on, and though my top 10 would undoubtedly differ from yours, here's the really interesting thing. I have 6 of the knives on your list...which says nothing about me, something about you, and everything about the greatness of a knife, (or knives) that would make the list of both novice and expert alike. Opinions will vary as they rise, fall and swirl around in an endless ocean of sources...but simple truth has a knack of floating to the top...Good is good! 😁 I very much enjoy and appreciate your channel sir.
Which 6?
I have the Penguin, Sencut, Deka, Lawman, PM2, and the Demko. 😊
It’s a hard list to come up with but I thank you for putting it out there. For me my buck 110 was my go to for about 20 years and now I have been carrying my benchmade adamas with a custom leather sheath for belt carry. Yes a little Harvey for an edc but it does everything I need it it do. Thank you for your great content bud and have a great day 👊🙏
Amazing list! I have 5 on the list, and with the ones I have my order would be; 4. Para 3 3. Sage 5 (one in titanium scales, and one in carbon fiber scales) 2. TRM Atom/Neutron and 1. Demko 20.5 shark foot in smooth titanium. I have had the Demko drop point in the laminate carbon fiber, and was amazed at how much the titanium made a difference! It is an absolute banger of a knife, and such a joy to carry.
Ive never clicked a video so fast.
Im kinda surprised the benchmade freak or mini freek didnt make it. Most people i interact with like it a lot more then the bugout or 940 (myself included)
He's never really seemed to be the biggest axis lock advocate, but with that said the one knife that he praises unconditionally in an axis style lock is the Ritter/Hogue RSK MK1 so it kinda makes sense since the nature of a top 10 in general is a fairly small list.
Almost same knife as the Ritter. I prefer the Freek for style and M4 steel.
2 Spyderco's and no BM, that's a great day🌞
Yes sir. No time for those plastic scaled turds lol!!
lol, Don’t even pretend that a benchmade 940 shouldn’t be near the top of an all time edc knife list. I like Benchmade but I also share many of the complaints other people have and their pricing is just absurd….especially how many other companies have emerged offering knives with similar materials for 1/2 the price, but the 940 specifically is an all time top edc.
My day isn’t good unless it STARTS with a bm!
Why don’t people push the benchmade? Something I am missing?
@mattcourtney710 It's more to do with the shock of the pricing far north of other brands of similar or better quality, not so much the product/quality itself. Your dollar may go further (materials used, design, styling) elsewhere.
I enjoy mine, but I have only bought when they have offered extreme discounts that place the discounted price at a semi-tolerable range.
Love the inclusion of the Cold Steel, sure they are funky with their names and advertising but they are some of the best knives out there
I agree with a lot of these. I only disagree with not having the Sebenza on the list, especially in Magnacut.
I recently started collecting EDCs. Before this video was made I owned 3 Demkos. You can get a light weight, polymer 20.5 for $120. and its beyond bang for the buck.
Yeah with super cheap materials and a sore finger to boot after only using it a couple of times.
Love my 20.5 only have 1 but it’s carbon handle with a 20CV blade and man it is absolutely beautiful
The Sage 1 is side by side with the Sage 5 imo depending on one's preferences, liner lock vs Compression Lock. But both great
My edc is the Cold Steel Range Boss and has never let me down!
I've been building a Cold Steel collection for the past few months. I have the AD 10, 15, Lawman, Code 4, and 20 or so others...but I recently got around to picking up a Range Boss in the dark earth brown, and I am surprised at how much I like this knife! It stays in my pocket and never gets time off! Cheers.
I just finally found a Benchmade mini Infidel. She was pricey but i just had to do it. My red handeled shootout comes in a couple of weeks
For me I’d find a place on the list for the Spartan Astor. Incredible value, great steel with the CTS-XHP, love the Les George blade profile and carbon fiber scales. Tough user that looks refined. I got mine for $130
For me an EDC has allways been a relatively cheap damascus knive that is not too large (not to intimidate which is really important to me) a Mcusta MC-0031D Shinra Kasumi . That is a really nice knife.
My favorite EDC is the Quietcarry Waypoint.
Absolutely love this knife too Kyle. Lot of blade, premium steel, Sebenza smooth action and rust proof. Ergonomics could be improved slightly, but near perfect knife IMHO.
*I like the Off-Grid Black Mamba.*
I may have a few different options but I definitely agree with the majority of your list all of those are definitely great edc knives thanks for sharing bud!
I'm the same, I have a few different versions, but there are some really great choices to explore a little more if anyone is new to EDC.
Always interesting how different everyones rankings are... fun list
Exactly! There are so many good options but I find that the opinions of others rarely match the things I find to perform well in the real world.
I picked up a mini griptilian in 154cm about 8 years ago. I just couldn't get myself to like it enough. The plastic handle felt so coarse and made me cringe in and out of the pocket. I put it away and carried a cheap Kershaw instead. Last year I pulled it out of the drawer, dusted it off and put some AWS aluminum scales on it. Now it sees a lot more pocket time and i retired the kershaw.
Overall I wouldn't recommend the price of this combo but it was nice to be able to spice up the mini griptilian into something more enjoyable.
Thank you! I have wanted to get a smaller pocket knife to keep in my purse, I really like that Ritter Hogue in the mini size - it's just what I've been looking for!
My GOAT EDC is my Chavez redencion STREET model. About an hour’s much shorter and really perfect for anything
Hogue Deka, Pyrite, and AD 20.5 are three of my all time frequent carriers. Love them to death and I actually have three different Pyrites; fun fact, my G10 pyrite seems to have a much smoother button than the two metal ones which makes having the light weight G10 more palpable over the steel ones. I love all three but I just found that interesting. Great video love your new ideas to do more of these more frequently I feel like they tell us a lot of information in a short amount of time all in one video. Well done sir!
Totally agree about the Pyrite. I love my G10 version and have a video coming up about it soon. So impressive for the money.
@@SussexEDC absolutely! I don’t want to take anything away from the steel versions I love how solid and hefty they feel but the G10 does not get the love it deserves! I’ll definitely look out for your video
@@danpennella Thanks mate.
I honestly think the G10 version is one of the best budget button lock knives on the market at the moment.
I have a few from your list but my absolute favorite edc folder is the Quite Carry Drift.
Absolutely fantastic video. Loved watching it. You are obviously patient and ofcourse very knowledgeable, but this was also a lot of fun. Thank you brother 🤜🏽🤛🏽
My favorite and best in my opinion is the TRM Atom. It’s a mix between a delica and a PM2, but it is lite and as customizable as a Bugout. Which all three of those were my favorite at a time. If you have smaller hands then the Neuron is awesome. Only bad thing is getting ahold of a TRM.
There are so many good knives out there, I don't know how you could possibly pick a top 10....
You came to the right conclusion. The Demko is the best (stock) knife on the market. I have the 3V CF version. Its the only knife ive ever owned that has literally nothing wrong with it.
Good steel? Check
Nice stonewash? Check
Good blade shape? Check
Nice gymping? Check
Fast opening? Check
Good lock? Check
Solid lock up? Check
Lightweight? Check
Thin handles? Check
Deep carry clip options? Check
Ergonomic? Check
Fidget friendly? Check
Good sharpening choil? Check
Hidden liners? Check.
glad to see that there was at least one with ergonomic handle on this list.
I was surprised you put the Sage 5 on your list. It’s a bit of a sleeper but honestly it’s my favorite knife. After that probably the shaman and the delica k390 or TR-3
As I'm watching this in Kansas, I have the smoker going. Hope you are at least grilling today.
Great list fav is Ontario RAT Model 1 like $30
QSP hawk is my favorite.
I wanted a para 3 so bad but after comparing, the sage 5 (G10) is just the best edc knife. Period. I just lost mine hiking and every time I needed to cut something I was looking through my basket of knives for my sage 5. I think that says it all. Going to Spyderco to buy another one tomorrow.
I've, recently, been EDC'ing the Boker AK74 in XHP(bought several years ago on Black Friday for $49.95) and since I live in Texas, I can carry whatever I want(pretty much). One thing about the XHP is its awesome steel but....HOWEVER it can be a bit of a PITA to put an edge(back) on....I also EDC a TOPS UTE (and, usually, a P365 but that is another discussion)....and the UTE is one of the most useful and indestructible knives on the planet(and used to cost less than 1/2 what they do NOW.....oi...)
I'm 61yo, and have been a 'knife guy' since the early 1990's and EDC'd a Benchmade Mini-Reflex 2500(YES, the original, not the 2550) im CM154 for almost 20 years(and still have that one).....and I wont EDC anything that costs more than $125(used to be $100), anymore.....older....wiser.....less brainwashed by THE HYPE!!!
I can offer one very relevant piece of knife advice....
YOU are the ONLY one who will know that you didnt spend $400(or whatever) on a knife....and YOU are the only one who will cry when you lose/get stolen/break/whatever a $400 knife.
Simplify, carry a spare -carry a throw away, too!!! but dont spend a LOT of money on an 'EGO BOOSTER'...THAT IS A FOOLS ERRAND!!! You are spending to prop up somebody ELSE'S EGO!!!
You will profit, in the end.
and, YES, I own several knives that are(NOW) worth $$$$ on the market....but i didnt pay nearly that for them.....and I dont EDC any of them, either.
Dont fall for THE HYPE!!!!
Such a great run-down.
Agree with so many of these options. The Pyrite is such an impressive knife for the money.
I'd maybe add the WE Banter to the list as it's not flashy, but such a useful every day knife.
The Kizer Towser deserves some love on most top 10 list. I have the most expensive version of the Towser (Elmax/Fat Carbon), but even at $220, it's a knife that is worth the cost to me. The action on the Kizer Towser, is unbelievably smooth.
My favorites are the Pro-Tech Malibu, the Doug Ritter Mini-RSK, and the Benchmade mini Freek in carbon fiber!
Right as I pulled out my Sage 5 wondering if it might make the cut, I was extremely pleased to see it pop up on the list. Wow! I have a Griptillian so the Ritter Hogue is close enough for my budget. Need to check out the Pyrite and Penguin next!
Demko 20.5 Titanium, Spyderco para 3, We Roxi 3 Titanium, We titanium Praxis, We Sublgrater, Hogue Deka, Benchmade mini crooked river, Benchmade Osborne, Benchmade Bugout with after market scales, Kiser drop bear.
My personal favorite is the kershaw blur tanto
Nice list! I have the Deka in magnacut w/ OG aluminium scales, multiple para 3s (my current favourite is in s45vn with AWT agent scales) and the Demko AD20.5 in 3v w/ flytanium Ti scales and backspacer and they’re each top favourites of mine
nice list overall but in my humble opinion the Bugout definitely deserves a spot on a top 10 EVER list for edc knives. even if it isn’t king of the EDC lightweights anymore, its design pretty much paved the way for other great knives (Deca, Para 3 LW, etc.) to exist in the first place. love it or hate it, gotta give credit where credit is due.
No, we dont
Ya pass on the Bugout. It's an alt at best
@@metal_complex to each their own brother. still subbed and enjoyed the vid. thanks.
Imagine if all these knives and this list existed 15 years ago! We would all have spent so much less money finding out what is good! Fantastic list, thanks for posting it!
Talking bang for buck edc knife, I recently purchased a Kizer Escort with the Richlite handle, their lock bar is amazing and the action is super smooth, my fav knife atm. Going for a Kizer XL assassin for my next.
Including the "Extra" Knives you put out for us, I counted 10 that are in my collection!
i carrying the Sage 5. very under rated. the pocket clip is great
Going with Spyderco Manix 2 as my one and done.
It's a great knife for sure, if you like big knives with lots of utility. For my first I went pm2 aka crucarta and it's just the right size, blad and handle. My only complaint is the comp lock hurts to use after awhile.
There is no one and done for me though, def need a smaller one so dragonfly or similar maybe and carry both
If you’re watching this channel there is no chance you’re buying one knife 🫡 good luck though
Wish the sage 5 at least had some texturing on the lock where you engage it, let alone some contouring bc it’s very awkward and uncomfortable to manipulate the lock. Could even use some better access to the lock bar, through a cutout in the frn
I couldn't agree more with the Sage 5.....I'm really not a big Spyderco fan, but this one is fantastic....and so few seem to realize!
The QSP is incredible. And the price is insane. Wish they would make the penguin plus in a button lock. Frame locks are wrenched. Just don’t buy the CJRB through Knife Center the worst experience ever changing from out of stock to pre order without notifying me. So a month later I finally got it. After they wanted to charge me extra if I wanted the rest of my order.
I have the QSP mini penguin and it's a great knife. Shame it's more expensive that the original, but it's still a top option.
@@SussexEDC yeah I thought that was weird that the mini was more expensive. Don’t have one but I’ve been debating whether to buy one or not. I like small knives but having a bigger hand sometimes they aren’t always a great option.
@@dawg4135 I really like it, but I do struggle to open it compared to another small knife like the Civivi Baby Banter for example.
It's better now it's worn in a bit though.
@@dawg4135 I think the addition to the cost on the mini is because it comes in 14C28N and not D2, however the cost of steel is probably so minimal to these companies so who knows right? lol
@@SussexEDC that’s the same problem I had with the Knafs Lander. It was a pain in the ass to open based on the placement of the thumb stud and no indentation on the scale. But it’s SLOWLY getting better. I’ll have to pull the trigger on the QSP. I love the other versions so why not.
I'm in love with my Aluminum Civivi Conspirator.
Love the Sage. Definitely a very underrated knife.
Always entertaining and informative. Great run through the EDC world. Thanks.
Yes!!!! I’m sitting here flicking my knife (AD 20.5 Carbon handles and 20CV clip point blade steel) and it ends up being metals number 1 pick! Wooohooo not only do I have many of these knives in my collection but I’m currently pocketing the number one. Love it. Thanks for the video so happy i stuck around till the last choice 🫡👍
The Ritter Hogue does it for me.
7/10 logo slap...the TRM is ducking gorgeous
I just picked up a QSP penguin for my secondary knife and its great. Got S35VN steel with some really cool scales. Sharp as hell! Eyeing more from QSP. Possibly the Penguin Plus or the new Swordfish.
My old edc was a benchmade presidio. But all the screws fell out so I had to retire it before it fell apart completely lol. Just recently managed to find some replacement screws so I might get to put it back to work.
After that tho my edc became the benchmade bugout, then to ow I carry the civivi praxis and the akc f20 otf.
Gotta say tho, I like the praxis more than the bugout. It feels way more sturdy and better balanced in the hand
Send it back to benchmade and get them to fix that for free. Ask them to sharpen it up and send it back you’ll get it back better than new
Awesome . I purchased the GT Recon 40 based on your recommendation and out of all my knives it get the most pocket time. Just a tremendous knife all around and probably the last otf I'll buy.
I have that Atom with those scales bought afterward. Tricky to get those scales in that texture. One sweet carry.
Against my own well-being I am going to share with you the name of the best knife. Ready? It is the Kershaw Chill. Best bang for the buck. I am amazed at how it keeps the sharpness for a long time. Hope you don’t pay attention so that it remains cheap. P.S. If you pay more than $50 you are collecting or hoarding, not working nor camping.
Excellent list of really great pocket knives!
I have the lawman in cts-xhp the perfect alround folder! As a lighter knife i like the kershaw leek too
I have about 1/3 of the knives on your list. My most carried EDC is an Ontario knife Rat 2. Just a 1/2 ton work truck workhorse of a knife.
DLC 3v Clip Point AD20.5. Dropped like an extra 300 on custom Ti scales and deep carry clip. There is no reason for me to ever buy another knife, I've had it 2 years... But I want at least one more in megaslice.
My Atom in jade is in pocket a lot lately. Gave my QSM away but will get the Cold Steel and CJRB.
Wow, I have 15 of the 21 knives you recommended - including alt's 😲
No Kizer?!? The Original XL deserves mention at the very least! It's arguably the best budget button lock!
Top 50? Yes. Top 10? No.
Pretty solid list. But I’m not a big Para 3 fan. The ergonomics are good, but I don’t think you get enough knife for the pocket space you’re giving up.
How did the Sebenza not make the top 10? I know its crazy when a knife cost more than a Glock lol (in Some cases more than a Berretta. Just curious as I see it as the gold standard. Happy to not see Benchmade which might upset a lot of people. I know they make good stuff, I just refuse to spend my hard earned money on them after seeing their stance on the right to bear arms. I have close to 8 Microtechs and have seen a drastic change in there quality and agree with you on the OTF. Keep up the good work!
Hi there. I know it's not my top ten, it's yours, and you manage to put different kind of knives in this top 10. So i'm not commenting to correct you, just for the talk and the sharing.
Great top ten, in which I would replace some of these to put a We Banter, awesome little EDC, and some contoured micarta comfortable handles, as the Kizer T1 or the Civivi Sokoke.
Maybe putting an alternative to the Sage, with the Native. I know, not the same fun locking system, but quite same ergo, and i love the back lock and the slender design with one curve from the edge of the handle toward the blade tip, with some more alternative with the steels (Magnacut incoming on this). Greetings.
Edit : usefull video for anyone beginning a collection, and maybe lost inside the river of available knives in shops.
demko ad20.5 and emerson mini a100 made me get rid of every other knife i owned.
i legitimately stopped using the 940-1 for months
Maybe a cool idea for another video: best EDC multitools
I like the weekend format. Keep it up
Kizer Drop Bear deserves a spot, IMO
One day can you do one on your favorite pocket carry edc fixed blades? If you have any of course
My favorite is the ad20 full size stays with me 24 hrs
Ugh. Agreed on the cheapest AD20.5. I don't mind the AUS-8, but those scales! They make the knife feel so cheap and just awkward in the hand. I regret not spending more, I'll probably try and find new scales
Good list. I think the new Sencut Serene is the best budget button lock out right now.
Half of those are in my top 10 too 👍
I know exactly what you mean. I was like, yep, yep, yep, agree with that, that too.
Manix 2 is hands down best folding pocket knife to date, in the best steel available. Change my mind
It isn't. Decent though
In your opinion, but thanks.
It’s a great blade, but too big in the pocket and blade length for most edc. I take the Manix when on a hike, but for work (IT office) it’s the lil native or baby banter.
I recommend the S&W special tactical
Hogue Ritter s/b #1 IMO. Thanks.
Thanks this was quite informative and timely as I look to change edc to a button lock. Thumbs up added
I’m shocked you didn’t list the XM-18! But, I find them a bit large personally. Great job!!!
Availability is the reason they aren't listed. That and price. Two big factors when it comes to recommending "EDC" knives