The Kershaw Iridium was my most favorite pocket knife purchase of 2023. I love it’s looks, fit & finish, it’s opening and closing is buttery smooth and great blade. It’s the right knife at the right price..!!!
The knife I carry most often is my Benchmade Presido (USMC issue) for after work and weekends; during work I typically have my Leatherman Free P4 (professional office environment) in my Mystery Ranch 3Way laptop bag.
Last knife that bit me was also a Hougue design! I bought the K320 in Tanto, the tip was also floating! I drew blood twice while pushing the blade into my pocket. Hougue was great, they took the knife back and sent me a replacement and agreed to change to the drop point design. No issues, it's now my favorite EDC!
Wow your k320 was floating that much? Mine isn't buried but I don't think I could poke myself either. Good to hear Hogue still has good customer service tho.
Crossbar locks are exploding in popularity for a reason. They're safe, very strong, 100% ambidextrous, and easy to use. As a matter of fact, a lot of my folding knives are using that locking system, so I'd definitely consider it my favorite one. Only problem is that you may have to replace those omega springs at some point, but I don't consider it a real issue for EDC.
Crossbar locks are top. I also like mid lock back style. I’m jaded against framelock and liner locks. I purposely picked button lock on Vosteed Raccoon.
Oh. Yes I’ve heard of omega springs breaking, but not on several I’ve had or brother or friends had. I had the original model with it first and not on it either. I GOT 781 Anthem because Axis Lock AND coil spring
Yeah my bugout had both springs break in less than two months lol bm omega springs are the worst of the lot for snapping. Still I love a good crossbar lock
Hey GT, yet another great video! The Gerber Sedulo was my most carried new folder for my wife and I for 2023 with the Best Tech Swordfish coming in a close 2nd for me. The crossbar lock is by far my favorite type of lock ever since the 1st Benchmade I got with it back in the late '90's followed closely by a button lock. When I get a knife, I look at the overall picture..in no particular order, steel, grind, blade and handle shape and size, lock, handle material.
I’ve probably carried the benchmade shootout the most this year. I carry it when running, it is ultralight which I care about when running, functionally very similar to the bailout but the blade is more protected from rain and sweat. Largest pocket knife I’ve ever carried was the coldsteel raja II. Also while running, but on backcountry trails where there can be lots of downed tree branches.
For EDC my favorite of 2023 was the Pro-Tec SBR. This was my first real quality knife and I've been practicing sharpening it as well. Fixed was the Alpha dog in Cryo D2 steel. It isn't the most practical but there's something gratifying about it 👍🏾
I want to try short bladed rockeye from Protect! I saw one in S35VN. I have the VECP in Morpho scales just before the button lock and S35VN version came out and I was pissed that I had the previous because the detent sucks.
I've been carrying the CJRB large pyrite with RPM9 steel and green micarta scales, I really like that it's more budget oriented while still being a full figured knife lol. It's nice for those of us that have larger hands and want a bit more blade, the button lock action was smooth out of the box but a drop of lube made it just right. Check one out for the low cost and I dont think you'll be disappointed!
I'm kind of amazed that the raccoon made your list and not the mini nightshade. The mini nightshade ticks all the boxes the mini bugout does but at a lower price (60-65$ just like the raccoon), with an adjustable axis lock, thin profile, 14c28n steel, and sub 2oz weight.
This is the first year in decades that I haven't bought a new knife..The knife community has went totally crazy with outrageous prices I just decided to upgrade the gun collection instead..As much as I love my drawers full of knives when I can buy reputable and reliable firearms for less than most knives that catch my eye nowadays I can no longer justify knife purchases by any stretch of my imagination..😢
Yes sir. It use to that budget knives were like Ganzo at 25.00 but now a budget knife is on average 70.00 and it just gets ridiculous from that point forward
My favorite knife of the year is the new green tagged out. So comfortable, so smooth. All the benefits of the bug out but bigger blade and clip point. So thin and slicey. I prefer the G10 over those plastic handles. And they run their S45VN up to 62hrc, much higher than their s30v . And it has their 17° select edge. First knife in a long time I didn't immediately sharpen and reprofile after purchasing.
I lived in Ireland for some years - pocket knives of any kind were illegal to carry! But I purchased a Byrd Tern (slip joint) for my trips across the Irish Sea to England, where small slip joints were legal. It's a great little G10-handled knife, with a finger choil that acts like a safety mechanism because the blade cannot close on your hand with your finger blocking the action.
My favorite lock is the axis lock. But i dont mind a good lockback. Linerlock is probably my least favorite these days. Thanks for all the vids this year.
The Vision FG has redefined budget knives for me. Loved it so much I got one for my daughter and my wife ordered one for herself. We got the Damascus version and I dyed the scales for each of us. Spectacular knife, and pretty easy to work on (just watch that spring).
@@Edgekeeper747 Only when disassembling the knife. Works perfectly. But when taking the scale off, even with the liner still on, that spring WILL shoot out. It’s important to cover the knife when removing the first handle scale to catch the spring as it launches. I bought three of them and dyed the scales for each different colors. The spring popped out every time. The first time I was caught by surprise and had to spend 5 tense minutes searching for the spring.
Love that hoodie!! Brings back a lot of memories as a kid in the ‘70s. You had to plan ahead using a TV Guide to know when the Christmas shows would be airing. No VCRs or streaming. Good times!
Crossbar all the way. I remember buying a Benchmade (don’t remember rhe model but it was said “McHenry Williams” on the blade because Axis lock was so new. Gave a couple out to my coworkers and we never looked back.
Where i live in England i have to carry slip joint. I bought the buck based on your recommendation and it is a beauty. I showed it to friends and family and out of all my other slip joints it was their favourite
14c28n every day all day over D2. It is very underrated. If it was the only knife steel for the rest of my life I would be content. Some of my other favorites are LC200n, 154cm, s30vs35v, cpm cruwear, m390/20cv and of course Magnacut.
@@levelwu May I ask why? I've never owned a D2 blade but have heard it's chippy & not easy to sharpen in the field. What are your experiences with this steel?
@@dtl5623 My exp. is limited to Chinese D2 so for what is worth: holds a decent edge but it is much harder to sharpen, chips rather than rolls as compared to 14c28n or VG-10. I like to use all my knives in the kitchen/camping, so rust is a concern. I would rather touch up the blade more frequently than reprofile. If you just want a blade for your toolbox it might be a good fit.
Kershaw knocked it out of the park in 2023! The Iridium is one of my favorites that I keep gravitating to, want a livewire. Gerber got a good design but too expensive for what it is. 440 is a no go for steel with what they have out now days. Cold Steel is always a hoot to see what they do and love the Voyager and Recon. They are great values and if I only had one knife to grab out the door it would be a Cold Steel. Can't go wrong with Spyderco but expensive. Favorite probably the Matrix. Like what Buck has been doing with iterations of the 110 but their QC leaves much to be desired. I have gotten a couple in S35 and one I can't open and the other had a wonky grind and one had a chip near the edge, unacceptable! I think Benchmade is overpriced for what you get. Great time for knife buyers! My next knife will be something with the Shark type lock, maybe the Civivi vision. Love your videos!
I'm faced with an important decision, in terms of EDC quality and compactness, do you think the Kershaw Iridium or the Kershaw Heist is better, aesthetically I prefer the Heist, what are the main differences between the 2?
You’d enjoy the Raccon! It’s a little underrated because the steel and the execution of the design has that heart from a new up & comer wanting to prove themselves.@@grattof
My ZT 0770 has been most edc of all my knives, disappears in my pocket but is always there & ready for whatever comes up, a super capable knife. Love my Benchmade Mini Freek for fidget factor, looks & feel great but @ $306 too expensive for edc & too afraid of loosing it lol.
I carry a replaceable blade utility knife very similar to the one you showed. I got mine from Amazon, a 2 pack of Mossy oak branded utility knives, for $9.00. I use it when I dont want to mess up my good blade, or when someone askes to use my knife. because I have had good knives destroyed by non-knife people. the largest pocket knife I have ever carried is the RR giant Wharncliffe. it has a 5" wharnie flipper. I got it for my birthday, and carried it mostly as a lark. the pocket knife I have carried the most this year is the Kizer Begleiter XL. I love the feel of it, the micarta is very well done, and the action is perfect. it is the first button lock I have ever had, and while I have a couple others now, it is by far the best of the bunch. when I am going out in the woods, however, I carried the CRKT Raikiri with the field strip tech. it is the easiest to keep clean with out worrying about losing screws or springs.
Awesome list! That gerber scout looks great! I'd like to see better steel too. Most carried and used were the Inkosi, the 3v Bailout with awt scales, and the Shaman with awt scales
You are right on re the Stretch II! Love that knife! Awesome EDC! Prefer the cross-bar locks for strength and reliability, but the mid-lock "lockback" folders by Cold Steel and SpydieCo are my favorites for EDC. That Demco Triad lock is bullet proof.
Love button locks, but if I had to choose only one, I’d go with the compression lock, just because it seems more secure on average while being only slightly less convenient/fidgety. Also, kinda funny you said we don’t see s30v very often and then mentioned Benchmade in the next breath. Even Spyderco continues to use it as their default steel. Anyways, appreciated your perspective, and totally picked up some Workpros through your link! TY✌🏻
Already bought the work pro off of your original review. I use them all the time because they are so easy to carry even in gym shorts! I don't know why I haven't purchased more. Thanks for the reminder. Adding to my Amazon cart now!!!
Cool video I enjoy your breakdown of the function and characteristics of 2023’s sweetest knives. It seems as if you’ve come around a little when it comes to tanto blades. I’m referring to your Kershaw Brawler review in which you stated it’s not your thing and you much prefer a drop or clip point. If you still feel the same way about tantos you can just send me the benchmade lol
lock types I edc in order of preference - scorpion lock , atlas/shark lock , crossbar lock and Triad lock lightweight or heavy - depends on what I'm wearing , light clothing requires light pocket knives , heavy clothing you can go heavy with.
It makes sense that you would like 14C28N for a steel, it's pretty much the PERFECT steel for a pocketknife, especially an EDC knife. Tough as hell, holds a decent edge, and bringing that edge back to microscopic levels of sharpness is exceedingly easy. For m money, if a pocketknife doesn't have 14C28N, AEB-L, or Magnacut, it really needs something outstanding about it to be considered. I like the Raccoon crossbar lock, but their new button lock with the spine liner lock (think of Spyderco Smock's Compression lock) is incredible.
Kershaw Iridium is one of my favorites this last year. I almost bought the reverse tanto one as well but I ended up buying a different wharncliff blade
When the Stretch 2 came out, my blade would hit the lanyard tube causing a dull spot. I was not the only one with this issue. I reached out to Spyderco and they could not give a flying rip. Their CS sucks.
My best folder of the year was the Spyderco Military 2. I'm just happy to have that knife with the compression lock. My biggest handle and knife disappointment will be unpopular, but it's the Benchmade Bugout. Everything I despise in a knife and let alone handle is that thing. Then, worse than that, they made a mini.
Started the year with the Microtech Socom Bravo. Actually more art than knife and more suited as Tactical than EDC. Switched to carrying a Kizer XL Botton Lock Begleiter in green Micarta (the Mojave Outdoor version) as a primary and a BM Infidel as secondary. That Kizer is a seriously underrated knife
In my experience, 14C28 steel is way better than D2. I think the reason may be that for budget knife manufacturers, it is easier to properly heat treat 14C28 steel than it is D2. I’ve found most budget D2 steel knives to be very brittle yet most 14C28 steel knives have been ok. I have come to believe that the heat treatment process is as important as the steel used. I’ve had 8cr13 from budget Spyderco knives perform better (in my opinion) than some other budget oriented steels (like D2) from other brands. If the STEEL was the truly the only factor influencing performance, D2 SHOULD outperform 8cr13 all day long, however, I believe even budget Spyderco 8cr13 IS properly heat treated. These ‘fly by night’ Chinese companies that put out budget D2 knives probably aren’t properly heat treating the steel and the result is often abysmal performance from a blade steel that SHOULD perform pretty good. My old Spyderco tenacious has taken a beating and performed way better than it should (considering it’s lowly steel type).
14c28n is just a ridiculously tough steel so even if it’s heat treated shitty it won’t chip. most brands run it around 60hrc which is decent but 14c shines at 61-63 hrc where it stays super tough but sees a SIGNIFICANT increase in edge retention.
Wow. I didn’t know that steel could be Rockwell’d that high. That’s impressive. As far as budget steel goes, it’s one of my favorites. I always liked it for its durability, however, knowing it can be hardened even further and not get brittle just makes me like that steel even more. It makes me question why D2 is still being used in anything.
I actually had a pretty subpar experience with buying a crossbar vosteed raccoon. The lock on mine is sticky, the pivot is far from smooth, and the micarta handle scales on it are fraying. And I tried everything to get the action to smooth out. Polishing, cleaning, oiling, nothing has made it run well.
I'm starting to prefer micarta - especially compared to G10. I've been partial to all metal with titanium scales and frame locks but have started to like micarta scales on either a bolster lock or high a quality nested liner lock. In the mid priced tier favorite is the Kizer Mystic - even though the front opening feature sucks out of the box. It does get better with some fine diamond files and a lot of patience however.
In case anyone wants to know I also bought a three pack of the workpro utility knives. I sort of love the size and how they feel but two of them have failed button locks. Not failed after hard use, failed after sitting on my desk for a couple months. Of the three one locks, one doesn't at first but will click on place if I wiggle it around a bit, one will not lock at all. You get what you pay for. I still kind of love them, if you know a blade isn't locked it's still safe.
I like modifying my stuff! Case in point, my Prather War Bowie with it's lousy sheath... YOU recommend an AZWELKE Kydex sheath and... EXCELLENT!!! Another one, watching your channel I saw a set of BADASS replacement scales for my Jaroz Turok, EXCELLENT "AGAIN"!!! AND, those scales fit my Turok camp too... Need I say more? Aaron, thanks 😊...
Interesting. The BM Bailout M4 is one of the only BMs that I would not swap out the handle scales on and never had any desire to do so. I love the scales that it comes with. Definitely no knock on AWT though, since they make really great scales. I put some of their scales on my original BM Freek.
My biggest handle disappointment is by far the Benchmade 945. I was really excited for this one until I got it in hand. The slim handle at that length just felt too small to be usable.
I usually don’t use razor blades. I feel like if my knife dulls my sharpening skills are at a point that I can get sharp again quickly. Now when I’m cutting lots of straps or ropes I have a utility knife that uses the larger blades and I buy serrated. In my opinion it’s the way to go.
You said about d2 or 14c28n, well Dr Larrin Thomas, the creator of Magnacut, stated that if he was to chose a more budget friendly Steel it would most likely be 14c28n. The guy is a metal scientist ( metallurgist) so what he recommends I’ll probably side with!
I just recently got the vision fg----- i flick that thing so much, it's so fidgety.......but has anyone else has the issue where the lock makes your finger tip sore? I almost got a blister on my finger. I guess i should flick it with my left hand since i already have calluses on those fingers from guitar, but yeah as im typing this my right index finger is sore from that super lock stud digging into my finger from flicking it around so much. I had to carry the spyderco today because i knew if I carried the vision fg, i would further damage my index finger. If I had to use 1 lock for rest of my life it would either be a compression lock or a crossbar lock, but I still like the old school back locks like the seki city spydercos use.
Just switched over to the ZT0562MIC, magnacut steel from Zero Tolerance knives. So far this thing is incredible, highly recommended! Planning on getting some custom scales to replace the micarta and to fill out my hand just a little better. It is magnacut steel though, and comes out of the box extremely sharp.
Yes, regardless of purchase cost, normally i "trick out"/modify my gear in some way or another, with the goal of improving the product in some way. Not so much for cosmetic reasons but definitely on the practical side. PS: i like that first knife and would edc it for sure. Not cost prohibitive but might take a minute to justify and save for it being its not my only knife.
The null knives voodoo was my biggest handle disappointment. It looked pretty damn ergonomic even though it had some angles. when I got it, it had very sharp hot spots. The pocket clip had a pointy tip that poked into my palm constantly, the finger cut out near the front of the handle before finger choil had a pointy part of the scale where the handle ended that dug into the side of my finger. It still feels super ergonomic besides those two things but man it was crazy that such an expensive knife missed two big and obvious hot spots .
D2 over 8cr, 12 or 14c both over D2. Love micarta and is my usual go-to, but im also a sucker for that matte finished aluminum handles. Also, im just going to say it, the Bugout has been blown out the water these days with knives like the Irridium, the Racoon, the Assert, a couple CJRBs etc. (All depending on whether its size, lock or weight thats most important to you) Theres just too much available at to great a value for me to even consider the Bugout anymore.
I'm hoping someone makes a big, thin, and light, knife like the bailout using the super lock. The vision is cool, but thicker and heavier than I'd like.
That third flop was compelling, and I’ll tell you why. I care about steel, but about the only time it comes up is when a model only comes in S30V or D2 and I want it enough to overcome my revulsion. This blade would have toughness and easy sharpen ability, but I would prefer a Cobalt bearing alloy like N690, VG-10 or SPY27 (the best of the three). The third flop offers so many details and novelty that it’s super inviting. I would buy it because it is like the best candidate Ive ever seen for a re-blade! That’s a thing! Yes, more investment, you’re not wrong. But imagine getting a reblade in CPM MagnaCut or S90 V! I got Vosteed Raccoon and I like it better than Spyderco Delica! This video put more than one folder on my radar, I’m a fixed blade, even pocket fixed blade EDC guy, but like most knife knuts I still carry and use folders. I’ve carried Spyderco Mantra 2 more than any pocket knife this year and since Blade West 2022. It’s my workhorse for on the job. I got it off eBay used and heavily thrashed and got it back to good as new. This video was fun to watch and I liked all the coaxing to add comments!
Thanks for watching, glad it was fun and entertaining. Appreciate the comment. Trying to do better about asking more questions for more conversation in the videos.
This was a fun video! I’d like to get my hands on an Arcade, but I’m waiting for the Spyderco PM2 Salt in Magnacut to come out. I bought the Bailout on your recommendation and love it. But I also picked up the Magnacut Mini Adamas and I have been carrying it almost exclusively.
The lock back Stretch 2 in K390 just will not leave my pocket. I've tried and tried, there are so many beautiful knives. I am very deliberate in the deployment and use of a knife, so lock back it is. I like the Spyderco compression lock too, as well as their reliable heat treats. But I wish that all knives came with their hrc rating. Hurray for Piratech.
If I had to pick one lock for life…..I’d die I can’t choose, I have over 50 knives and I love them all. Budget, expensive all of them have a special place in my heart (and on my wall) 😂 In all honesty I’d prob pick the compression lock. Most carried this year, also tough…..probably my PM2 but my new Tern fixed blade by TJ Schwarz and jack wolf knives slip joint are getting some serious pocket time lately 🙏🏼 keep up the great content
The Bailout has been my main goto EDC this year as well. Although I am now carrying the Shot Show Satin 3v model which I swapped the orange aluminum with the new black bailout aluminum scales. I finally caught the dragons tail with this one.
You could buy two of the "Trash Panda" knives and mix the parts of the white version with the black out version and create a white/black storm trooper knife! Yeah, i know it would be better and cheaper if they had a white/black in the first place.
Aaron, Nice video... Most Carried my 20 year old Osborne 940 and the newest is Bailout. And still use the Milwaukee Fastback for box breakdown and some package opening.
My most carried is the Benchmade Bailout in 3V. It still is an amazing working knife and great for back up tactical blade if needed. 2nd is the Spyderco Smock in S30V. 3rd is a ZT that is all stainless and a little smaller than the Benchmade. Sorry i don't remember the number of the ZT. I have a ton of folders from all makers but those are the top 3!
Use the kobalt replaceable razor blade push button at work every day. Hands down the best in it's category of replaceable razor knives. I've tried every other brand known to man. And the kobalt takes the win. Not to mention lifetime warranty. And yes they honor it too. Without hesitation.
The biggest pocketknife carried was the Lone Wolf Harsey T1 5" S35VN. Sadly I sold it and have not seen another since. Still have it's 4 inch little brother - the Harsey T2
Lone Wolf T1 Ranger was a 3” knife before S35vn was even a thing. I use to like carrying the T2 as a woods knife just because it was hard to get in and out of the pocket so I was unlikely to loose it. They were grippy but the handle material wore out to fast. And if you carried the T3 with its tip down 5” S30v blade without a sheath...your a real man.
@dlrmon1 yeah, I always got the names mixed up. I had the T1 and the T2. One had a 4" blade, the other a 5" blade, and both looked to be the same liner-lock design. I still have the 4" somewhere. Carried the 5' in a side cargo pocket. It was probably intended to be carried in a pouch on a plate carrier. Too much of a beast to be practical. Still regret selling it though...
Micarta FTW. As for the Iridium and the Vision, I couldn't agree more! Excellent value. It would be great to have a micarta option for the Iridium. The superlock of the Vision can stick occasionally, so overall, the crossbar lock is my favorite. I come from old school liner locks (mostly "vintage" Benchmades), but the axis/crossbar is now my favorite, especially because its truly ambidextrous. The Kizer Escort is a great crossbar option to consider looking at. Button locks are my second favorite.
Sorry Arron , my dad was dubbed that way before you ,this includes nanook of the north too! ..lol …Arron, push button locks are total trash and WILL get you hurt, especially with large hands. The lock will hold , but is way to easy to release upon squeezing the knife handles. I owned a Kizer assassin, for figit factor 10 out of 10 for safety..2 out of 10. It happened multiple times on this and other button locks.
I love to trick out my gear. The hidden gotcha is when you have multiple favorites of the item in question, one becomes dissatisfied with just having one customized tool and color way and ends up with multiple duplicate tools, all bearing your favorite customizations. With pocket knives that's relatively harmless. It gets out of control with EDC concealed-carry firearms, however. As in I'm currently waiting for the alloy grip module to become available 'ala cart' for the new Sig 365 Legion to use on an X-Macro TacOps. One can easily become a slave to customization...
I just got the Vosteed Thunderbird recently and I’m pretty disappointed with the detent and that it doesn’t flick and stick close very well, which really messes with the fidget factor
Don't sleep on Buck! Lately they've been sneaking out *MAGNACUT* blades in limited batches on some of their more popular models. I've got both a 501 and a 119 in Magnacut now. The 501 is called "The Larrin" because it was named after the creator of Magnacut itself, Mr. Larrin. He helped them learn how to work with his new steel using their existing BOS process. I can easily see Buck adding Magnacut versions of their knives down the road in a few years, just like they did when they added the S30V versions. I missed a Buck 110 in Magnacut earlier and have regretted it ever since. I hope they do a re-run of those, I want one so bad. I'm a Magnacut addict now. MAGNACUT ALL THE THINGS!
The Kershaw Iridium was my most favorite pocket knife purchase of 2023. I love it’s looks, fit & finish, it’s opening and closing is buttery smooth and great blade. It’s the right knife at the right price..!!!
It looks good but in 🇦🇺 I found it on sale for $134.00. I think that's expensive for what it is.
The knife I carry most often is my Benchmade Presido (USMC issue) for after work and weekends; during work I typically have my Leatherman Free P4 (professional office environment) in my Mystery Ranch 3Way laptop bag.
Last knife that bit me was also a Hougue design! I bought the K320 in Tanto, the tip was also floating! I drew blood twice while pushing the blade into my pocket. Hougue was great, they took the knife back and sent me a replacement and agreed to change to the drop point design. No issues, it's now my favorite EDC!
Wow your k320 was floating that much? Mine isn't buried but I don't think I could poke myself either. Good to hear Hogue still has good customer service tho.
Crossbar locks are exploding in popularity for a reason. They're safe, very strong, 100% ambidextrous, and easy to use. As a matter of fact, a lot of my folding knives are using that locking system, so I'd definitely consider it my favorite one. Only problem is that you may have to replace those omega springs at some point, but I don't consider it a real issue for EDC.
Crossbar locks are top. I also like mid lock back style. I’m jaded against framelock and liner locks. I purposely picked button lock on Vosteed Raccoon.
Oh. Yes I’ve heard of omega springs breaking, but not on several I’ve had or brother or friends had. I had the original model with it first and not on it either. I GOT 781 Anthem because Axis Lock AND coil spring
Yeah my bugout had both springs break in less than two months lol bm omega springs are the worst of the lot for snapping. Still I love a good crossbar lock
Stolen from benchmade
Benchmade stole the spydie hole.
Hey GT, yet another great video! The Gerber Sedulo was my most carried new folder for my wife and I for 2023 with the Best Tech Swordfish coming in a close 2nd for me. The crossbar lock is by far my favorite type of lock ever since the 1st Benchmade I got with it back in the late '90's followed closely by a button lock. When I get a knife, I look at the overall picture..in no particular order, steel, grind, blade and handle shape and size, lock, handle material.
I’ve probably carried the benchmade shootout the most this year. I carry it when running, it is ultralight which I care about when running, functionally very similar to the bailout but the blade is more protected from rain and sweat. Largest pocket knife I’ve ever carried was the coldsteel raja II. Also while running, but on backcountry trails where there can be lots of downed tree branches.
For EDC my favorite of 2023 was the Pro-Tec SBR. This was my first real quality knife and I've been practicing sharpening it as well. Fixed was the Alpha dog in Cryo D2 steel. It isn't the most practical but there's something gratifying about it 👍🏾
I want to try short bladed rockeye from Protect! I saw one in S35VN. I have the VECP in Morpho scales just before the button lock and S35VN version came out and I was pissed that I had the previous because the detent sucks.
I've been carrying the CJRB large pyrite with RPM9 steel and green micarta scales, I really like that it's more budget oriented while still being a full figured knife lol. It's nice for those of us that have larger hands and want a bit more blade, the button lock action was smooth out of the box but a drop of lube made it just right. Check one out for the low cost and I dont think you'll be disappointed!
I'm kind of amazed that the raccoon made your list and not the mini nightshade. The mini nightshade ticks all the boxes the mini bugout does but at a lower price (60-65$ just like the raccoon), with an adjustable axis lock, thin profile, 14c28n steel, and sub 2oz weight.
I will have to look at that one next.
This is the first year in decades that I haven't bought a new knife..The knife community has went totally crazy with outrageous prices I just decided to upgrade the gun collection instead..As much as I love my drawers full of knives when I can buy reputable and reliable firearms for less than most knives that catch my eye nowadays I can no longer justify knife purchases by any stretch of my imagination..😢
Yep
Just curious what knives are you looking at that are more expensive than guns?
Good point. I think that's wisdom.
Yes sir. It use to that budget knives were like Ganzo at 25.00 but now a budget knife is on average 70.00 and it just gets ridiculous from that point forward
@@bigche5280lol you can still get Ganzos for 25 dollars..
My favorite knife of the year is the new green tagged out. So comfortable, so smooth. All the benefits of the bug out but bigger blade and clip point. So thin and slicey. I prefer the G10 over those plastic handles. And they run their S45VN up to 62hrc, much higher than their s30v . And it has their 17° select edge. First knife in a long time I didn't immediately sharpen and reprofile after purchasing.
I lived in Ireland for some years - pocket knives of any kind were illegal to carry! But I purchased a Byrd Tern (slip joint) for my trips across the Irish Sea to England, where small slip joints were legal. It's a great little G10-handled knife, with a finger choil that acts like a safety mechanism because the blade cannot close on your hand with your finger blocking the action.
Cool I will have to check that out. That is a good feature to have.
Yeah, Byrd gets dismissed many times because it's "not a spyderco" but they're really a great value for well designed knives.
Wow that really blows my mind. The land of arma lights, car bombs, and shillelaghs finds a swiss army knife too dangerous?
My favorite lock is the axis lock. But i dont mind a good lockback. Linerlock is probably my least favorite these days. Thanks for all the vids this year.
The Vision FG has redefined budget knives for me. Loved it so much I got one for my daughter and my wife ordered one for herself. We got the Damascus version and I dyed the scales for each of us. Spectacular knife, and pretty easy to work on (just watch that spring).
What do you mean watch that spring? Have you had any issues with it?
@@Edgekeeper747 Only when disassembling the knife. Works perfectly. But when taking the scale off, even with the liner still on, that spring WILL shoot out. It’s important to cover the knife when removing the first handle scale to catch the spring as it launches. I bought three of them and dyed the scales for each different colors. The spring popped out every time. The first time I was caught by surprise and had to spend 5 tense minutes searching for the spring.
Such a good knife
@TheIronwill was it around $100 when you bought it? That seems high for a budget knife.
@@monkpato I got the Damascus version. The base model is $80.
That Gerber Scout looks sooo good! What a bummer they skimped on the steel.
Love that hoodie!! Brings back a lot of memories as a kid in the ‘70s. You had to plan ahead using a TV Guide to know when the Christmas shows would be airing. No VCRs or streaming. Good times!
Crossbar all the way. I remember buying a Benchmade (don’t remember rhe model but it was said “McHenry Williams” on the blade because Axis lock was so new. Gave a couple out to my coworkers and we never looked back.
Where i live in England i have to carry slip joint. I bought the buck based on your recommendation and it is a beauty. I showed it to friends and family and out of all my other slip joints it was their favourite
So glad it has been a good blade for you!!
14c28n every day all day over D2. It is very underrated. If it was the only knife steel for the rest of my life I would be content. Some of my other favorites are LC200n, 154cm, s30vs35v, cpm cruwear, m390/20cv and of course Magnacut.
Couldn’t agree more!
100% But they all stocked up on D2 and are now trying to push it like it is some new quality steel. I'd take even softer Aus8 or 8Cr13MoV over D2.
@@levelwu May I ask why? I've never owned a D2 blade but have heard it's chippy & not easy to sharpen in the field. What are your experiences with this steel?
@@dtl5623 My exp. is limited to Chinese D2 so for what is worth: holds a decent edge but it is much harder to sharpen, chips rather than rolls as compared to 14c28n or VG-10. I like to use all my knives in the kitchen/camping, so rust is a concern. I would rather touch up the blade more frequently than reprofile. If you just want a blade for your toolbox it might be a good fit.
@@levelwu I use 80CrV2 & C100 as my carbon steels & am happy with them. You have confirmed what many have said about D2. Thanks.
finally someone giving the stretch 2 some love. my favorite spyderco actually
It is so good!
Kershaw knocked it out of the park in 2023! The Iridium is one of my favorites that I keep gravitating to, want a livewire. Gerber got a good design but too expensive for what it is. 440 is a no go for steel with what they have out now days. Cold Steel is always a hoot to see what they do and love the Voyager and Recon. They are great values and if I only had one knife to grab out the door it would be a Cold Steel. Can't go wrong with Spyderco but expensive. Favorite probably the Matrix. Like what Buck has been doing with iterations of the 110 but their QC leaves much to be desired. I have gotten a couple in S35 and one I can't open and the other had a wonky grind and one had a chip near the edge, unacceptable! I think Benchmade is overpriced for what you get. Great time for knife buyers! My next knife will be something with the Shark type lock, maybe the Civivi vision. Love your videos!
Benchmade changed my life that’s for sure. They make the best knives in my opinion.
I'm faced with an important decision, in terms of EDC quality and compactness, do you think the Kershaw Iridium or the Kershaw Heist is better, aesthetically I prefer the Heist, what are the main differences between the 2?
Love lock backs stretch 2 is amazing and so is the xl
Great list!! Regarding utility blades, I actually use them a lot to break out boxes at homw. They are perfect for that. That workpro seems pretty cool
Thanks for sharing. And yeah it’s a great little option for light duty cutting. A full-size is obviously better suited for tons of hard use.
Indeed! Btw I like the Raccoon. I'm thinking of picking one up. Thanks for the recommendation
You’d enjoy the Raccon! It’s a little underrated because the steel and the execution of the design has that heart from a new up & comer wanting to prove themselves.@@grattof
@@JosephOlson-ui2pg thanks for the comment! I'll definitely check it out
My ZT 0770 has been most edc of all my knives, disappears in my pocket but is always there & ready for whatever comes up, a super capable knife. Love my Benchmade Mini Freek for fidget factor, looks & feel great but @ $306 too expensive for edc & too afraid of loosing it lol.
On the workpro utility, if you don't like silver, they make black ones under the Duratech branding.
I carry a replaceable blade utility knife very similar to the one you showed. I got mine from Amazon, a 2 pack of Mossy oak branded utility knives, for $9.00. I use it when I dont want to mess up my good blade, or when someone askes to use my knife. because I have had good knives destroyed by non-knife people. the largest pocket knife I have ever carried is the RR giant Wharncliffe. it has a 5" wharnie flipper. I got it for my birthday, and carried it mostly as a lark. the pocket knife I have carried the most this year is the Kizer Begleiter XL. I love the feel of it, the micarta is very well done, and the action is perfect. it is the first button lock I have ever had, and while I have a couple others now, it is by far the best of the bunch. when I am going out in the woods, however, I carried the CRKT Raikiri with the field strip tech. it is the easiest to keep clean with out worrying about losing screws or springs.
Awesome list! That gerber scout looks great! I'd like to see better steel too. Most carried and used were the Inkosi, the 3v Bailout with awt scales, and the Shaman with awt scales
You are right on re the Stretch II! Love that knife! Awesome EDC! Prefer the cross-bar locks for strength and reliability, but the mid-lock "lockback" folders by Cold Steel and SpydieCo are my favorites for EDC. That Demco Triad lock is bullet proof.
Love button locks, but if I had to choose only one, I’d go with the compression lock, just because it seems more secure on average while being only slightly less convenient/fidgety. Also, kinda funny you said we don’t see s30v very often and then mentioned Benchmade in the next breath. Even Spyderco continues to use it as their default steel. Anyways, appreciated your perspective, and totally picked up some Workpros through your link! TY✌🏻
Very cool and much appreciated!!
16:51 Biggest Pocket knife I ever carried was the Espada XL. Carried it for about 6 months or so before I swapped out from my rotation.
Straight spine stretch 2 in k 390 is the best all around premium work knife made hands down
Already bought the work pro off of your original review. I use them all the time because they are so easy to carry even in gym shorts! I don't know why I haven't purchased more. Thanks for the reminder. Adding to my Amazon cart now!!!
Glad they’ve worked so well for you!
Cool video I enjoy your breakdown of the function and characteristics of 2023’s sweetest knives. It seems as if you’ve come around a little when it comes to tanto blades. I’m referring to your Kershaw Brawler review in which you stated it’s not your thing and you much prefer a drop or clip point. If you still feel the same way about tantos you can just send me the benchmade lol
lock types I edc in order of preference - scorpion lock , atlas/shark lock , crossbar lock and Triad lock
lightweight or heavy - depends on what I'm wearing , light clothing requires light pocket knives , heavy clothing you can go heavy with.
It makes sense that you would like 14C28N for a steel, it's pretty much the PERFECT steel for a pocketknife, especially an EDC knife. Tough as hell, holds a decent edge, and bringing that edge back to microscopic levels of sharpness is exceedingly easy. For m money, if a pocketknife doesn't have 14C28N, AEB-L, or Magnacut, it really needs something outstanding about it to be considered. I like the Raccoon crossbar lock, but their new button lock with the spine liner lock (think of Spyderco Smock's Compression lock) is incredible.
Kershaw Iridium is one of my favorites this last year. I almost bought the reverse tanto one as well but I ended up buying a different wharncliff blade
When the Stretch 2 came out, my blade would hit the lanyard tube causing a dull spot. I was not the only one with this issue. I reached out to Spyderco and they could not give a flying rip. Their CS sucks.
I have heard that from a few people. I’ve never had to deal with it myself.
My best folder of the year was the Spyderco Military 2. I'm just happy to have that knife with the compression lock. My biggest handle and knife disappointment will be unpopular, but it's the Benchmade Bugout. Everything I despise in a knife and let alone handle is that thing. Then, worse than that, they made a mini.
Hahah!!! The bugout can be a suck fest
That 5 max rocks
Started the year with the Microtech Socom Bravo. Actually more art than knife and more suited as Tactical than EDC. Switched to carrying a Kizer XL Botton Lock Begleiter in green Micarta (the Mojave Outdoor version) as a primary and a BM Infidel as secondary. That Kizer is a seriously underrated knife
In my experience, 14C28 steel is way better than D2. I think the reason may be that for budget knife manufacturers, it is easier to properly heat treat 14C28 steel than it is D2. I’ve found most budget D2 steel knives to be very brittle yet most 14C28 steel knives have been ok. I have come to believe that the heat treatment process is as important as the steel used. I’ve had 8cr13 from budget Spyderco knives perform better (in my opinion) than some other budget oriented steels (like D2) from other brands. If the STEEL was the truly the only factor influencing performance, D2 SHOULD outperform 8cr13 all day long, however, I believe even budget Spyderco 8cr13 IS properly heat treated. These ‘fly by night’ Chinese companies that put out budget D2 knives probably aren’t properly heat treating the steel and the result is often abysmal performance from a blade steel that SHOULD perform pretty good. My old Spyderco tenacious has taken a beating and performed way better than it should (considering it’s lowly steel type).
14c28n is just a ridiculously tough steel so even if it’s heat treated shitty it won’t chip. most brands run it around 60hrc which is decent but 14c shines at 61-63 hrc where it stays super tough but sees a SIGNIFICANT increase in edge retention.
Wow. I didn’t know that steel could be Rockwell’d that high. That’s impressive. As far as budget steel goes, it’s one of my favorites. I always liked it for its durability, however, knowing it can be hardened even further and not get brittle just makes me like that steel even more. It makes me question why D2 is still being used in anything.
Most carried knife for several years now is a Benchmade Crooked River from their custom shop with M4 steel.
Benchmade Bailout with AWT scales. I have 40+ knives, and this thing just keeps finding it's way into my pocket the most. Perfect EDC blade.
Best handle material on the Gerber Gator series.
I actually had a pretty subpar experience with buying a crossbar vosteed raccoon. The lock on mine is sticky, the pivot is far from smooth, and the micarta handle scales on it are fraying. And I tried everything to get the action to smooth out. Polishing, cleaning, oiling, nothing has made it run well.
I love that meme about Yukon Cornelius!!!!!! You got the merch on him!
Yukon Cornelius Rules! Awesome!
Wonder if the Gerber Scout would accept a Griptillian blade?
I'm starting to prefer micarta - especially compared to G10. I've been partial to all metal with titanium scales and frame locks but have started to like micarta scales on either a bolster lock or high a quality nested liner lock. In the mid priced tier favorite is the Kizer Mystic - even though the front opening feature sucks out of the box. It does get better with some fine diamond files and a lot of patience however.
In case anyone wants to know I also bought a three pack of the workpro utility knives. I sort of love the size and how they feel but two of them have failed button locks. Not failed after hard use, failed after sitting on my desk for a couple months. Of the three one locks, one doesn't at first but will click on place if I wiggle it around a bit, one will not lock at all. You get what you pay for. I still kind of love them, if you know a blade isn't locked it's still safe.
I like modifying my stuff! Case in point, my Prather War Bowie with it's lousy sheath... YOU recommend an AZWELKE Kydex sheath and... EXCELLENT!!! Another one, watching your channel I saw a set of BADASS replacement scales for my Jaroz Turok, EXCELLENT "AGAIN"!!! AND, those scales fit my Turok camp too... Need I say more? Aaron, thanks 😊...
My most carried knife this past year has been my Bradley Marais Vector followed very closely by my SPK Lamia
Love my Racoon!
Great video. Thanks for the hard work. Still carrying the standard green 940. Best knife for me. Plain S30v. Aluminum scales etc.
Good option for an edc
The one I carry the most is the benchmade 940 love it
Interesting. The BM Bailout M4 is one of the only BMs that I would not swap out the handle scales on and never had any desire to do so. I love the scales that it comes with. Definitely no knock on AWT though, since they make really great scales. I put some of their scales on my original BM Freek.
My biggest handle disappointment is by far the Benchmade 945. I was really excited for this one until I got it in hand. The slim handle at that length just felt too small to be usable.
I usually don’t use razor blades. I feel like if my knife dulls my sharpening skills are at a point that I can get sharp again quickly. Now when I’m cutting lots of straps or ropes I have a utility knife that uses the larger blades and I buy serrated. In my opinion it’s the way to go.
I was considering picking up a Gerber Assert, but i bought a Delica 4 in K390 instead. I'm having second thoughts now.
My most carried has also been the Bailout, both the M4 and 3V version with the M4 carried a bit more. So much to love about that knife.
My most carried pocket knife for 2023 is a tie between the Pickled Steel Hakarl and Kizer Original
You said about d2 or 14c28n, well Dr Larrin Thomas, the creator of Magnacut, stated that if he was to chose a more budget friendly Steel it would most likely be 14c28n. The guy is a metal scientist ( metallurgist) so what he recommends I’ll probably side with!
I just recently got the vision fg----- i flick that thing so much, it's so fidgety.......but has anyone else has the issue where the lock makes your finger tip sore? I almost got a blister on my finger. I guess i should flick it with my left hand since i already have calluses on those fingers from guitar, but yeah as im typing this my right index finger is sore from that super lock stud digging into my finger from flicking it around so much. I had to carry the spyderco today because i knew if I carried the vision fg, i would further damage my index finger.
If I had to use 1 lock for rest of my life it would either be a compression lock or a crossbar lock, but I still like the old school back locks like the seki city spydercos use.
I only have two gerber knives the zilch and the prybrid I love them both. That Gerber Assert looks like my next purchase.
Just switched over to the ZT0562MIC, magnacut steel from Zero Tolerance knives. So far this thing is incredible, highly recommended! Planning on getting some custom scales to replace the micarta and to fill out my hand just a little better. It is magnacut steel though, and comes out of the box extremely sharp.
28:40 How’d you remove the glass breaker from the bailout…….
You should be able to back it out with a set of pliers
Good choices !
Glad you think so!
Most carried for 2023 was Civivi Praxis
Yes, regardless of purchase cost, normally i "trick out"/modify my gear in some way or another, with the goal of improving the product in some way. Not so much for cosmetic reasons but definitely on the practical side.
PS: i like that first knife and would edc it for sure. Not cost prohibitive but might take a minute to justify and save for it being its not my only knife.
The null knives voodoo was my biggest handle disappointment. It looked pretty damn ergonomic even though it had some angles. when I got it, it had very sharp hot spots. The pocket clip had a pointy tip that poked into my palm constantly, the finger cut out near the front of the handle before finger choil had a pointy part of the scale where the handle ended that dug into the side of my finger. It still feels super ergonomic besides those two things but man it was crazy that such an expensive knife missed two big and obvious hot spots .
D2 over 8cr, 12 or 14c both over D2. Love micarta and is my usual go-to, but im also a sucker for that matte finished aluminum handles.
Also, im just going to say it, the Bugout has been blown out the water these days with knives like the Irridium, the Racoon, the Assert, a couple CJRBs etc. (All depending on whether its size, lock or weight thats most important to you)
Theres just too much available at to great a value for me to even consider the Bugout anymore.
That CMB Predator is not bad at all either! Been thinking about snatching me up one of those for the price point
I'm hoping someone makes a big, thin, and light, knife like the bailout using the super lock. The vision is cool, but thicker and heavier than I'd like.
That third flop was compelling, and I’ll tell you why. I care about steel, but about the only time it comes up is when a model only comes in S30V or D2 and I want it enough to overcome my revulsion. This blade would have toughness and easy sharpen ability, but I would prefer a Cobalt bearing alloy like N690, VG-10 or SPY27 (the best of the three). The third flop offers so many details and novelty that it’s super inviting. I would buy it because it is like the best candidate Ive ever seen for a re-blade! That’s a thing! Yes, more investment, you’re not wrong. But imagine getting a reblade in CPM MagnaCut or S90 V!
I got Vosteed Raccoon and I like it better than Spyderco Delica!
This video put more than one folder on my radar, I’m a fixed blade, even pocket fixed blade EDC guy, but like most knife knuts I still carry and use folders. I’ve carried Spyderco Mantra 2 more than any pocket knife this year and since Blade West 2022. It’s my workhorse for on the job. I got it off eBay used and heavily thrashed and got it back to good as new. This video was fun to watch and I liked all the coaxing to add comments!
Thanks for watching, glad it was fun and entertaining. Appreciate the comment. Trying to do better about asking more questions for more conversation in the videos.
This was a fun video! I’d like to get my hands on an Arcade, but I’m waiting for the Spyderco PM2 Salt in Magnacut to come out. I bought the Bailout on your recommendation and love it. But I also picked up the Magnacut Mini Adamas and I have been carrying it almost exclusively.
Awesome glad the bailout worked so well for you.
@@gideonstactical the Bugout never really appealed to me. It’s too small for my hands. The Bailout fixes that problem and is almost perfect for me.
Largest J. Demko Riverwolf
Most carry A.Demko 20S
The lock back Stretch 2 in K390 just will not leave my pocket. I've tried and tried, there are so many beautiful knives. I am very deliberate in the deployment and use of a knife, so lock back it is. I like the Spyderco compression lock too, as well as their reliable heat treats. But I wish that all knives came with their hrc rating. Hurray for Piratech.
I agree that the Stretch finds it to weigh into my pocket so often, even though it’s such a basic design
K390 is great. I carry a couple of Spydercos.
If I had to pick one lock for life…..I’d die I can’t choose, I have over 50 knives and I love them all. Budget, expensive all of them have a special place in my heart (and on my wall) 😂 In all honesty I’d prob pick the compression lock. Most carried this year, also tough…..probably my PM2 but my new Tern fixed blade by TJ Schwarz and jack wolf knives slip joint are getting some serious pocket time lately 🙏🏼 keep up the great content
The Bailout has been my main goto EDC this year as well. Although I am now carrying the Shot Show Satin 3v model which I swapped the orange aluminum with the new black bailout aluminum scales. I finally caught the dragons tail with this one.
Aaron Vosteed has excellent customer service. I bet if you contact them they would send you a set of blacked out hardware.
Thanks is a great idea!!
Definitely like my ultra lite pocket knives. Pocket survival knife, Super Freek. Good call on the Bailout scales.
Ya those scales are so awesome
You could buy two of the "Trash Panda" knives and mix the parts of the white version with the black out version and create a white/black storm trooper knife! Yeah, i know it would be better and cheaper if they had a white/black in the first place.
Ya, I think that is what I will do!!
I hope Cold Steel makes a 3MAX before they make a 6MAX.
I use my Milwarkee Fastback almost every single day in household chores of one kind or another.
Aaron, Nice video...
Most Carried my 20 year old Osborne 940 and the newest is Bailout.
And still use the Milwaukee Fastback for box breakdown and some package opening.
Loved the singing!🎵
Who knew!!😅
Hahah!!!
My most carried is the Benchmade Bailout in 3V. It still is an amazing working knife and great for back up tactical blade if needed. 2nd is the Spyderco Smock in S30V. 3rd is a ZT that is all stainless and a little smaller than the Benchmade. Sorry i don't remember the number of the ZT. I have a ton of folders from all makers but those are the top 3!
Use the kobalt replaceable razor blade push button at work every day. Hands down the best in it's category of replaceable razor knives. I've tried every other brand known to man. And the kobalt takes the win. Not to mention lifetime warranty. And yes they honor it too. Without hesitation.
Thanks for the tip! I will check it out
The biggest pocketknife carried was the Lone Wolf Harsey T1 5" S35VN. Sadly I sold it and have not seen another since. Still have it's 4 inch little brother - the Harsey T2
Lone Wolf T1 Ranger was a 3” knife before S35vn was even a thing. I use to like carrying the T2 as a woods knife just because it was hard to get in and out of the pocket so I was unlikely to loose it. They were grippy but the handle material wore out to fast. And if you carried the T3 with its tip down 5” S30v blade without a sheath...your a real man.
@dlrmon1 yeah, I always got the names mixed up. I had the T1 and the T2. One had a 4" blade, the other a 5" blade, and both looked to be the same liner-lock design. I still have the 4" somewhere. Carried the 5' in a side cargo pocket. It was probably intended to be carried in a pouch on a plate carrier. Too much of a beast to be practical. Still regret selling it though...
Micarta FTW. As for the Iridium and the Vision, I couldn't agree more! Excellent value. It would be great to have a micarta option for the Iridium. The superlock of the Vision can stick occasionally, so overall, the crossbar lock is my favorite. I come from old school liner locks (mostly "vintage" Benchmades), but the axis/crossbar is now my favorite, especially because its truly ambidextrous. The Kizer Escort is a great crossbar option to consider looking at. Button locks are my second favorite.
I also definitely prefer Sandvik 14c28n on my overseas knives
Love my m4 bailout
Sorry Arron , my dad was dubbed that way before you ,this includes nanook of the north too! ..lol …Arron, push button locks are total trash and WILL get you hurt, especially with large hands. The lock will hold , but is way to easy to release upon squeezing the knife handles. I owned a Kizer assassin, for figit factor 10 out of 10 for safety..2 out of 10. It happened multiple times on this and other button locks.
I love to trick out my gear. The hidden gotcha is when you have multiple favorites of the item in question, one becomes dissatisfied with just having one customized tool and color way and ends up with multiple duplicate tools, all bearing your favorite customizations. With pocket knives that's relatively harmless. It gets out of control with EDC concealed-carry firearms, however. As in I'm currently waiting for the alloy grip module to become available 'ala cart' for the new Sig 365 Legion to use on an X-Macro TacOps. One can easily become a slave to customization...
I am leaning more toward smaller blades, like 2.5" , I dont like D2 it stains pretty easy, s35vn minimum , maybe the sandvik steel would be fine,
I just got the Vosteed Thunderbird recently and I’m pretty disappointed with the detent and that it doesn’t flick and stick close very well, which really messes with the fidget factor
Hey G. for me living in Florida I get to open carry or CC my EDC
Great video guys
Really appreciate it!
Don't sleep on Buck! Lately they've been sneaking out *MAGNACUT* blades in limited batches on some of their more popular models.
I've got both a 501 and a 119 in Magnacut now.
The 501 is called "The Larrin" because it was named after the creator of Magnacut itself, Mr. Larrin. He helped them learn how to work with his new steel using their existing BOS process.
I can easily see Buck adding Magnacut versions of their knives down the road in a few years, just like they did when they added the S30V versions.
I missed a Buck 110 in Magnacut earlier and have regretted it ever since. I hope they do a re-run of those, I want one so bad.
I'm a Magnacut addict now. MAGNACUT ALL THE THINGS!