very classy of David to not make fun of that last question. I did get the impression that the guy was trolling, but you never really know. Either way, David was graceful in his response. Great episode. Awesome series. wish it was an hour long!
The perfect knife is obviously the one you don't own yet, but DO have chilling out in your online shopping cart for the last week while you try to figure out how to justify buying it.
Actual knife ideas from cyberpunk literature are a monofilament or monomolecular wire knife and the fractal pocket knife. A real example of the fractal knife is the Spyderco full-serrated edge knives that became popular in the 1980's; more curved serrations = longer cutting edge. ( watches video...ohhh, work knife..)
Mr Andersen. You are the first and only American I have heard to use the term "unique" correctly. Unique means one of a kind; so nothing can be "very unique" or "slightly unique" Thank you for educating people as well as, you know normalising blades for the masses
There's a serrated version of the MKM Isonzo. BTW, another reason to get a Spyderco serrated over a Cold Steel is the Cold Steel serrations look much harder to sharpen. At least to me, anyway. For Spydercos you can just use the Sharpmaker. Would that work with those really tiny Cold Steel serrations?
Mr. Andersen, I always appreciate your warmth, wisdom, and wit on these segments, but I have to confess, I always get a big chuckle out of the sharp behind-the-camera commentary. Just for things that rhyme with spits and wiggles, would guys ever consider reversing roles for a segment? Sidenote: Pretty sure the surgical steel comment was tongue-in-cheek.
Definitely something from Cold Steel, like 4 max (or 4 max scout), large/extra large Espada or SR1. The 4 MAX held 808 lbs without breaking and if i remember correctly one other cold steel knife held over 900 lbs.
Asking what is "the perfect knife" is like asking what is "the perfect tool". I'd never reach for a box end wrench to drive in a Philips screw even if it was the perfect wrench. But I did laugh at how DCA's face lit up at the sight of the "Big Bowie"! @ 23:56
For the warehouse guy I would definitely recommend the Code 4 Tanto blade. Been using it for a while now and am absolutely sold on it. Easy one handed deploy and close with gloves, dependable lock up when cutting straps under load, and 2 sharp points to slice through plastic wrap and boxes. For a work horse it's super slim and light and has a lanyard hold for ease of draw.
Hey David, I've been EDCing the Rat 2 for a while now, and I'm looking for a fixed blade with a similar length and thinness for camping. I don't need a large knife because I always use a saw and hatchet, so a smaller, thinner knife will save weight, compared with something like an Esee or Tops.
Low price: old hickory's (pick your size) are quality steel and thin, full tang, time tested and run $20-33. They'll corrode but high carbon is great and common for food use. Mora companion also rocks. Medium range-condor terrasaur, cold steel srk-c, but they're thicker. @ ~100 is the Mora garberg, ESEE 3 HM. ESEE3 HM is an all around champ, both thin and tough.... And at that point there are countless other options.
Hello David. The perfect knife…. I’m 60 years old. I spent 20 years in the military. 10 as a DOD contractor, and so far 12 in law enforcement. I have carrier everything from Buck’s to Strider’s. Fixed blades and folders. I recently came across a Cold Steel Voyager XL at a gun show. It was love at first feel. Where had this knife been all my career.
For a scalpel blade knife you also might want to have a look at the Havalon brand. That is what came into my mind immediately. Always a pleasure to watch your videos, DCA!
"The perfect knife" is of course subjective, but I think the Spyderco Delica is pretty close to perfect. Perfect in the sense that there just isn't a lot going on, and there doesn't need to be. I know a lot of people increasingly dismiss the Delica for a variety of reasons ("booo VG-10" or "pLAsTiC scales?!") but as a knife guy, the older I get, the more I've shifted back to basics. It was my first "good" knife back in 1997, and I still carry one today. No frills, nothing pretty to look at, VG-10 is a perfectly adequate steel that's easy to maintain; just unapologetically basic. Kinda endearing to me.
Exactly. I've been saying that for years but people think I'm crazy. I'm the same way with a buck 110. When that night first came out everybody thought it was a super steal. But you know what is still a good selling knife and made the same way.
6:44 "The PERFECT Knife?" Hmmmmm. Well I think you gave the only sensible answer, DC! After all, I'd say, "One man's perfect knife is another man's pry bar!" I think it's a combination of need, purpose, aesthetics, feel, balance, utility, strength, weight, length, and probably more aspects I haven't even mentioned. With that many variables, there are an infinite number of possible iterations of a knife. Some will find wider acclaim, others not. It is very unpredictable. For example, I've always had a strong liking for a Cold Steel Trail Master, but could not really justify buying one. I even took up knifemaking and built my own knife, a Bushwhacker look-alike, and have used it for 30 years, and done amazing stuff with it. Recently, however, coming to the twilight years of my life (and that of my beloved Bushwhacker!), I decided to indulge myself and finally did buy one (the San Mai III version), and had Rob Evans (from Wales) make me a custom sheath for it. When I got it and tried it out, it was a total revelation! I actually realized what I'd been missing out on all those decades! That's what made me also realize how right you are - there is no PERFECT knife! This is what keeps us interested! It also helps me deal with all these videos about which knife is better than another, comparisons, reviews, etc. Well, they seldom tell the whole story, or even most of the story. Generally, they largely reflect the opinion of the reviewer, user, etc. To cover it extensively would probably be very boring to most people, so it must be dramatized to catch Likes, and that's fine. People have fun doing it, others have fun viewing it, and the world goes on. I now don't get hot under the collar about it. You, DC, do a good job of presenting stuff about knives very usefully and without (too much) personal bias! ;-) Keep it up. Cheers mate!
Another good option for the Bowie under $100 would be the Ontario Marine Raider, but you would have to get a leather sheath. Classy way to deal with that last question, but he couldn't have been serious. LOL
For the "deep carry" self defense folder: Recommend stronger locks than a liner lock/framelock, needs something more shock/impact resistant like a backlock, cross-bar lock etc. Try the Spyderco P'kal with a fold-over wire pocket clip, although I think the normal pocket clip is best.
Thanks for another very informative and entertaining video, David! I truly enjoy the knife FAQ series or as I call it the "KniFAQ episodes" when talking with my buddies.
For pocket deployment and deep carry, I'd recommend looking at aftermarket parts. It can be hard to find the "perfect knife" for your desires, but it's pretty easy to find custom pocket clips and wave-style opening accessories for the more popular brands. Plus, you're usually supporting a small business! After you first support the wonderful people at KnifeCenter, that is. 😉
I have a suggestion for a good warehouse knife, a HOGUE TRAUMA. Straps dull a blade edge pretty quick so using the seatbelt cutter works really well. Also benchmade and kershaw make models too.
For Rick Verkooijen’s question, another option is the Spyderco Cricket. It’s a very tiny hawkbill which they make with either a plain edge or serrated. The thing I like about it is that you can remove the clip and it’s an absolutely perfect fifth pocket knife. A bit hard for one hand opening at that point, but I use it quite often. www.knifecenter.com/item/SP29S/spyderco-cricket-folding-knife-vg10-satin-serrated-blade-stainless-steel-handles
The spydiechef is the knife that nails it for me. Small improvements could be made (like locktight the lanyard tube) but any design changes would sacrifice something that doesn't seem worthwhile to give up. If i could get it in a compression lock and carbon fiber onlay then I would buy another immediately, but that would probably kill the handle shape and carry profile. Like i said, any change i could ask for would probably kill its position as a nearly perfect compromise. It is a collection killer though. After you have and use one it feels indulgent to buy really anything else. You're no longer looking for one that works better, because nothing does. Now you're just spending money to get something different.
Not so much a question but a suggestion: I don't know if you've made a video about it before, but I'd love to see a video talking about the different handle materials available and the pros and cons of them. I honestly knew nothing about knives at all until I started watching these videos and would love to know the differences between stabilized woods, micarta, G10, etc.
The PM2 and the Native 5 are both pretty perfect knives IMO. I have both and love them. I think the Native 5 is a perfect EDC, but is underrated because it has a back lock and isn’t very fidgety.
I’m a long time fan of the Tops pathfinder school for a utility knife. Not huge, decent specs. It just works. As much as I try to branch out, I always come back to it.
Hey David. The MKM isonzo DOES come in a fully serrated config....it’s a fully serrated model black blade. I think it’s black and blue handle. Y’all may not stock it, but it’s out there. Just FYI Great video. Wish I worked with knives all day LOL
I'd like to add the We Snecx Mini Buster to the list of cyberpunk knives. Rike Knife also makes many that have a cyberpunk aesthetic like my older M2. I'd also argue that the ZT 0707 looks a bit like a cyberpunk dagger and has a carbon fiber presentation side.
You're right -- things can't be very unique or extremely unique but they can be truly unique. Sad that when you only call something unique it sounds not enough anymore :( Good vid :)
Hi DCA. I’m looking for a tough work knife. I build bridges and work with a lot of concrete. It needs to be able to deal with having said concrete on it and still be able to open and close.
I'm definitely not DCA but I'd lean more towards a fixed blade or a folder with washers, not ball bearings in the pivot. I can't think of any specific models off hand but I'm sure Cold Steel makes something folding that'd work :)
Dave, love your video presentations and watch your channel. On this and last week's video you recommend a karmbit blade to a Emailer and for cutting pallet straps. I'm a part time firefighter and oil refinery operator. We get hoses bound with pallet straps. I highly recommend a rescue hook for cutting those it's perfect for the task. My EDC is the Benchmade Auto Triage. Just my thoughts. Thanks.
Cost, strength and stainlessness. It's not necessary, but in an automatic that hits the stop pin with quite a bit of force, it just makes sense to go with something strong, and CPM154 is essentially the strongest stainless steel currently. Manufacturers want stainless because the average person (read: non-knife nuts) doesn't understand that rust prevention is the responsibility of the user and no one else. Read amazon reviews if you don't believe that. Now, why they justify using primarily CPM154 because of its strength, but also continue to use Aluminum is the question I have.
My take on different knife steels: 1) Go on line and read about each steel 2) Find the steel that you think is best 3) Try and find the steel to purchase 4) If you can actually find it, crap a ring around yourself at the expense 5) Settle on a cheaper steel because you broke 6) Send Knife Center an apology 7) Tell your grandpa he is a Fudd
Serrated hawkbill sounds just right. Karambits might be a bit overkill for a workplace but I'm Looking into the matriarch as wel as the tasman. Thnx for the advise!
Also consider the Spyderco Harpy, or the Spyderco SpyderHawk H1 (if you still can find one from the last sprint run). Those are pretty decent fully serrated hawkbill blades... The tip on the Spyderco C12 family (Civilian, Matriarch 2) is a bit weak since those were designed with a single purpose in mind, not meant for utility work.
Super DCA! In your opinion, what are the virtues and pitfalls of washers vs bearings pivots for edc folders? And what are your recommendations for maintenance?
Nice one as always, love your videos! I got the Undertaker Bowie, it's quite a workhorse and I really like the oldschool looks. Also worth checking out would be the Condor Dundee Bowie, also a great one with an even longer blade. But blacked out, gotta like this.
A big Bowie always makes me smile. I am convinced that the simple act of holding one will automatically raise your testosterone levels by several points. : }
Hey DCA - There WAS a fairly "Perfect" knife for a while, you may have heard of it: It was the Canteen Knife in CPM-3V by a company called Nordsmith. Unfortunately, through material shortages or some other unfortunate happenstance, the steel was lowered to CPM-154, which is still a very good steel, but not quite up to the standards of CPM-3V. Maybe the supplier could try to find some CPM-4V or some Z-Wear or Z-Max. ;-)
With the coffin shaped handle and the 6 pins on each side is pretty cool on the Undertaker Bowie. And that makes me think of a most serious question…what knife would Mark Callaway (the Undertaker) carry?
Thank you for your information and opinions . You helped me decide on what kind of knife I need. I'm going to be looking for the artisancutlery hornet . I believe it to be the knife I have been looking for . Thanks again and GOD bless !
Hey DCA I’m currently really interested in getting a halfbreed LSK-01 large survival knife (drop point version) but don’t exactly have $365 to spend on one. Is there something similar to that in the $100-$200 range that the Knifecenter carries? Thanks and cheers from Canada!
Hawkbill knives are underrated. I suggest a hawkbill wth a gentler curve like a kershaw launch 10 scherade karambit or a mushroom knife for the guy working in shipping
Kershaw Launch 10 is a nice hawkbill auto. Still, maybe a fully serrated hawkbill such as Spyderco Harpy, Spyderco Tasman, or Spyderco SpyderHawk (if he could still find a new unit from the last sprint run) would be good options if he has to cut fibrous things like cords, ropes, nets, straps, etc. Of course they're great for boxes too.
@@tamgiaonguyen2454 from experience the serated hawkbills are a pain in the ass especially at sharpening, rocking the blade back and forth on the spine usually does the trick and a perk of a hawkbill is as the tip wears down it slowly becomes a recurve tanto then a warncliff
Best neck knives? Pros and cons discussion? Stainless? Neck straps? Scales vs paracord wrap vs naked? Mora vs custom? Maybe for long trail hiking, AT, PCT, CAMINO... Texas
Question. What folding knife would you recommend that has a blade length over 4.5" that is not Cold Steel? Nothing against them I own several The XL Talwar and XL Espada being my favorites.
Love the KniFeAQ series, keep it up! 1. AD-15 for Cyberpunk? Especially the Blacked out one. 2. What about the Folts Karamin for Pallet Straps and Package Opening? I've used mine for shipping/receiving for years, and its great! Or the Cold Steel Tuff-Lite series? I've never used one, but they are purpose built for these sorts of tasks. 3. I'm surprised you acknowledge the "what knife for self-defense" types of questions. First off, it's hard to take these people seriously, as most of them don't know anything about knife fighting in the first place, and are just going to get themselves in trouble. Anyone who actually knows how to knife fight (IE; has TRAINING), doesn't need help picking a knife. Also, aren't you worried about opening yourself up to liability suits by suggesting a knife for this type of use? 4. Perfect knife that need no improvement? Well, it depends on how you look at it. Yes, you are right in that ANY knife can be improved, but how far can those improvements go without changing the knife so much that it's not the same knife anymore? The real question is, "is there a knife that is so perfect in it's design, function, and intended use (maybe add aesthetics or price-point to the mix also), that it can't be improved upon without changing it into a different knife altogether." To THAT question, I think that there probably ARE definite answers; Spyderco PM2, Mora Companion, Benchmade Osborne... there are others of course, but this reply is long enough as it is. 5. As far as the bowie knife, the Condor is a great choice, though I'm a fan of the Cold Steel Wild West Bowie, in that price range, which also comes with a leather sheath. The Cold Steel Frontier Bowie can also usually found for around 100 dollars as well, and is another great "traditional" style Bowie. 6. Are we sure that the last question wasn't a troll? :) Take care and keep up the great work!
Looking for a knife I can keep in my bunker gear when I am on duty as a FF. I need it to be tough, stainless isn’t as big of a priority since I will keep it oiled but a Kydex sheath is preferred. it needs to be usable with my turnout gloves on, I wear a 2XL, so the bigger the handle the better. I need to be able to use it in the dark and in high stress situations. I’m leaning towards a fixed blade for toughness and simplicity of use. I just need it to fit in the cargo pocket on my turnouts. I can fit a normal set of channel locks no problem for size comparison. Thanks!
Hi David. Was hoping you could help me with ideas for a secondary carry knife for work. I main a standard S30V G10 Manix 2 at work and am always hesitant to hand it off to co workers when they need to borrow a knife. I work at a nursery so it’s going to see fairly hard use. Main requirements are A. Something easy to resharpen/re-profile if they ding it. B. Not too expensive ($75 budget ballpark). C It’s going to be carried in my back left pocket and I’d like for it to be deployable in a reverse grip by my off hand (I’m fairly adept at thumb stud flicking with my ring finger from this position). C. Mid-ish sized please (no smaller than a Terminus XR, no bigger than a Voyager). Thanks! PS. No back locks.
Ontario Rat, either size, all day long. Nice and inexpensive, dual thumbstuds and 4 position clip should allow you to put it in that pocket in a way you could get it out. -DCA
EMERSON has deep carry clips for his knives on his website, but they kinda defeat the purpose like he said. I put one on a couple of mine, switched them back within a couple of days.
I think the Benchmade 940 would be tough to improve upon for my usage, very subjective but it is a great marriage of EDC (with good utility) and a gentleman's knife. Question: Torn on an auto knife for EDC, no size restrictions in my area. Considering a 940 auto (9400), a pro-tech tr series knife but I am open to suggestions for a knife that is relatively light and small but with good utility (3"-3.8" range). The Protech has been tough to find in a standard color way with a stonewashed or non coated blade. I have EDC'd my 940 for 7 years now and I have bought many other knives from good manufacturers (spyderco has gotten money for 6 knives from me haha, as well as 4 other Benchmade) but the 940 is just right for my usage but I Feel weird buying an auto version of a knife I already own so I wanted to see what an expert thought for other ideas or your thoughts on the Pro-tech tr series.
Best channel. Love you guys. Thank you David and team. Is there any chance you could go over maybe the best way to clean your knives? If you’ are using them outdoors and then wanting to cook with them for example.
on the "perfect" knifes... PM2 is hard to improve. Sure, different steels and blade shapes has been offered. But the overall knife is still the same as the og PM2. Good allrounder. Thanks
ZT 0562Ti is about the perfect knife for me. The only two things that could be improved is 1) set one side of the pivot into the scale so that you only need one bit driver to disassemble the knife and 2) give it a better name.
Hey David, I’m interested in buying a DPx Gear HEST/F 3.0 3D Ti Flipper Knife, the regular one, not the Leggaro one. I can’t seem to find any reviews of it. I mainly just want to know it the insides are milled out. I’m not a fan of milled out/skeletonized knives, I know the Leggaro version is milled out. I would assume the regular one isn’t but some photos make them look milled out. Please and thank you!
My perfect knife: Artisan Virginian; s35vn, shredded carbon fiber scales. The fit and finish are impeccable, extremely slicey, extremely sharp tip. For my personal preference, it doesn't get much better
Weird question here... in the Marvel movies, Loki likes to use knives and daggers. If he asked you to recommend some viking worthy blades, what would you suggest?
Been loving all the knives and exclusives I’ve been getting from knife center. I have a particular issue. I am an automotive mechanic by trade and I’ve noticed if I have a pocket knife in my right front pocket it will sometimes scape the bottom of the steering wheel getting in and out. I wonder if you have any suggestions for a EDC pocket knife with a “gentler” pocket clip material.
very classy of David to not make fun of that last question. I did get the impression that the guy was trolling, but you never really know. Either way, David was graceful in his response. Great episode. Awesome series. wish it was an hour long!
His love of knives is all in the smile when he picked that bowie up at the end of the vid!
"I'm not a huge fan of steampunk but I'll admit, it is the healthiest way to prepare punk."
Agreed, but they still taste horrible
But leaves you feeling lighter and refreshed even if you do wear your anger on your sleeve.
heard an old chunk of coal say that once
You’ve got to ask yourself one question. “Do I still feel hungry?” Well do ya, punk?
Ha !
The perfect knife is obviously the one you don't own yet, but DO have chilling out in your online shopping cart for the last week while you try to figure out how to justify buying it.
Are you married to my wife too?
I have to lie about the price. If she every finds out the real cost I’m dead!
In my case it's out of stock. Mhgemehgrmeh
Its really hard to argue with someone's grandpa but you did it well David.
Surgical Steele for head banging and gas station/liquor store knifes
Its also hared to argue with indignant ignorance.
Love how you answered the very last question.
Seemed like a tongue-in-cheek question.
8:42 a benchmade triage would also be a good utility knife, the rescue hook will work through straps with ease.
Actual knife ideas from cyberpunk literature are a monofilament or monomolecular wire knife and the fractal pocket knife. A real example of the fractal knife is the Spyderco full-serrated edge knives that became popular in the 1980's; more curved serrations = longer cutting edge. ( watches video...ohhh, work knife..)
Mr Andersen. You are the first and only American I have heard to use the term "unique" correctly. Unique means one of a kind; so nothing can be "very unique" or "slightly unique"
Thank you for educating people as well as, you know normalising blades for the masses
The "surgical steel" dude was clearly trolling you.
You would be surprised what people believe.
Just in case he wasn't, I think he handled it very diplomatically. ;-)
That’s what I was thinking
That MKM does come in serrated blade. There’s one on your site.
I was wondering about that too because I ordered the serrated MKM but it has not arrived yet.
My bad! -DCA
@@knifecenter you are bad 😉
There's a serrated version of the MKM Isonzo. BTW, another reason to get a Spyderco serrated over a Cold Steel is the Cold Steel serrations look much harder to sharpen. At least to me, anyway. For Spydercos you can just use the Sharpmaker. Would that work with those really tiny Cold Steel serrations?
Mr. Andersen, I always appreciate your warmth, wisdom, and wit on these segments, but I have to confess, I always get a big chuckle out of the sharp behind-the-camera commentary. Just for things that rhyme with spits and wiggles, would guys ever consider reversing roles for a segment?
Sidenote: Pretty sure the surgical steel comment was tongue-in-cheek.
Question for future videos: What is the absolute strongest folder that you have in your inventory?
Definitely something from Cold Steel, like 4 max (or 4 max scout), large/extra large Espada or SR1. The 4 MAX held 808 lbs without breaking and if i remember correctly one other cold steel knife held over 900 lbs.
Asking what is "the perfect knife" is like asking what is "the perfect tool". I'd never reach for a box end wrench to drive in a Philips screw even if it was the perfect wrench.
But I did laugh at how DCA's face lit up at the sight of the "Big Bowie"! @ 23:56
For the warehouse guy I would definitely recommend the Code 4 Tanto blade. Been using it for a while now and am absolutely sold on it. Easy one handed deploy and close with gloves, dependable lock up when cutting straps under load, and 2 sharp points to slice through plastic wrap and boxes. For a work horse it's super slim and light and has a lanyard hold for ease of draw.
Going along with the cyberpunk theme, I'd also suggest the CRKT Deviation and the CRKT Raikiri.
For cyberpunk I think something by Elijah Isham would fit well, many in carbon fiber as well.
Hey David, I've been EDCing the Rat 2 for a while now, and I'm looking for a fixed blade with a similar length and thinness for camping. I don't need a large knife because I always use a saw and hatchet, so a smaller, thinner knife will save weight, compared with something like an Esee or Tops.
Low price: old hickory's (pick your size) are quality steel and thin, full tang, time tested and run $20-33. They'll corrode but high carbon is great and common for food use. Mora companion also rocks. Medium range-condor terrasaur, cold steel srk-c, but they're thicker. @ ~100 is the Mora garberg, ESEE 3 HM. ESEE3 HM is an all around champ, both thin and tough.... And at that point there are countless other options.
Hello David. The perfect knife…. I’m 60 years old. I spent 20 years in the military. 10 as a DOD contractor, and so far 12 in law enforcement. I have carrier everything from Buck’s to Strider’s. Fixed blades and folders. I recently came across a Cold Steel Voyager XL at a gun show. It was love at first feel. Where had this knife been all my career.
For a scalpel blade knife you also might want to have a look at the Havalon brand. That is what came into my mind immediately.
Always a pleasure to watch your videos, DCA!
"The perfect knife" is of course subjective, but I think the Spyderco Delica is pretty close to perfect. Perfect in the sense that there just isn't a lot going on, and there doesn't need to be. I know a lot of people increasingly dismiss the Delica for a variety of reasons ("booo VG-10" or "pLAsTiC scales?!") but as a knife guy, the older I get, the more I've shifted back to basics. It was my first "good" knife back in 1997, and I still carry one today. No frills, nothing pretty to look at, VG-10 is a perfectly adequate steel that's easy to maintain; just unapologetically basic. Kinda endearing to me.
Exactly. I've been saying that for years but people think I'm crazy. I'm the same way with a buck 110. When that night first came out everybody thought it was a super steal. But you know what is still a good selling knife and made the same way.
Why Delica and NOT Endura? ☺️
@@tamgiaonguyen2454 size. I like the Endura, but for every day, I much prefer the Delica.
6:44 "The PERFECT Knife?" Hmmmmm. Well I think you gave the only sensible answer, DC! After all, I'd say, "One man's perfect knife is another man's pry bar!" I think it's a combination of need, purpose, aesthetics, feel, balance, utility, strength, weight, length, and probably more aspects I haven't even mentioned. With that many variables, there are an infinite number of possible iterations of a knife. Some will find wider acclaim, others not. It is very unpredictable.
For example, I've always had a strong liking for a Cold Steel Trail Master, but could not really justify buying one. I even took up knifemaking and built my own knife, a Bushwhacker look-alike, and have used it for 30 years, and done amazing stuff with it. Recently, however, coming to the twilight years of my life (and that of my beloved Bushwhacker!), I decided to indulge myself and finally did buy one (the San Mai III version), and had Rob Evans (from Wales) make me a custom sheath for it. When I got it and tried it out, it was a total revelation! I actually realized what I'd been missing out on all those decades! That's what made me also realize how right you are - there is no PERFECT knife! This is what keeps us interested!
It also helps me deal with all these videos about which knife is better than another, comparisons, reviews, etc. Well, they seldom tell the whole story, or even most of the story. Generally, they largely reflect the opinion of the reviewer, user, etc. To cover it extensively would probably be very boring to most people, so it must be dramatized to catch Likes, and that's fine. People have fun doing it, others have fun viewing it, and the world goes on. I now don't get hot under the collar about it.
You, DC, do a good job of presenting stuff about knives very usefully and without (too much) personal bias! ;-)
Keep it up.
Cheers mate!
Another good option for the Bowie under $100 would be the Ontario Marine Raider, but you would have to get a leather sheath. Classy way to deal with that last question, but he couldn't have been serious. LOL
For the "deep carry" self defense folder: Recommend stronger locks than a liner lock/framelock, needs something more shock/impact resistant like a backlock, cross-bar lock etc.
Try the Spyderco P'kal with a fold-over wire pocket clip, although I think the normal pocket clip is best.
Thanks for another very informative and entertaining video, David!
I truly enjoy the knife FAQ series or as I call it the "KniFAQ episodes" when talking with my buddies.
For pocket deployment and deep carry, I'd recommend looking at aftermarket parts. It can be hard to find the "perfect knife" for your desires, but it's pretty easy to find custom pocket clips and wave-style opening accessories for the more popular brands. Plus, you're usually supporting a small business! After you first support the wonderful people at KnifeCenter, that is. 😉
Hey DCA! Can the emerson wave be used as a bottle opener, and if so does that make it a multi tool??
#everythingisabottleopener
I have a suggestion for a good warehouse knife, a HOGUE TRAUMA. Straps dull a blade edge pretty quick so using the seatbelt cutter works really well. Also benchmade and kershaw make models too.
That Condor is just Brilliant.....
My perfect knife is my civivi praxis in purple in damascus. I have dozens of knives and this is still my favorite!
I don't need that one, but I cant resist!!!
For Rick Verkooijen’s question, another option is the Spyderco Cricket. It’s a very tiny hawkbill which they make with either a plain edge or serrated. The thing I like about it is that you can remove the clip and it’s an absolutely perfect fifth pocket knife. A bit hard for one hand opening at that point, but I use it quite often.
www.knifecenter.com/item/SP29S/spyderco-cricket-folding-knife-vg10-satin-serrated-blade-stainless-steel-handles
I like that Viper Keeper very nice knife.
The spydiechef is the knife that nails it for me. Small improvements could be made (like locktight the lanyard tube) but any design changes would sacrifice something that doesn't seem worthwhile to give up. If i could get it in a compression lock and carbon fiber onlay then I would buy another immediately, but that would probably kill the handle shape and carry profile. Like i said, any change i could ask for would probably kill its position as a nearly perfect compromise. It is a collection killer though. After you have and use one it feels indulgent to buy really anything else. You're no longer looking for one that works better, because nothing does. Now you're just spending money to get something different.
Regarding cyberpunk style knives, you might also try the we knife 915a
Kizer makes a really small knife modeled off the Tesla Cybertruck.
I loved that mkm isonzo...
enjoy when you and others in the knife yt community go off topic and talk about life, makes everything seem more personable and welcoming
Not so much a question but a suggestion: I don't know if you've made a video about it before, but I'd love to see a video talking about the different handle materials available and the pros and cons of them. I honestly knew nothing about knives at all until I started watching these videos and would love to know the differences between stabilized woods, micarta, G10, etc.
The PM2 and the Native 5 are both pretty perfect knives IMO. I have both and love them. I think the Native 5 is a perfect EDC, but is underrated because it has a back lock and isn’t very fidgety.
I’m a long time fan of the Tops pathfinder school for a utility knife. Not huge, decent specs. It just works. As much as I try to branch out, I always come back to it.
Takashi kovacz uses the crkt deviation in altered carbon. It's a fairly cyber punkish series.
Hey David. The MKM isonzo DOES come in a fully serrated config....it’s a fully serrated model black blade. I think it’s black and blue handle.
Y’all may not stock it, but it’s out there.
Just FYI
Great video. Wish I worked with knives all day LOL
I'd like to add the We Snecx Mini Buster to the list of cyberpunk knives. Rike Knife also makes many that have a cyberpunk aesthetic like my older M2. I'd also argue that the ZT 0707 looks a bit like a cyberpunk dagger and has a carbon fiber presentation side.
A perfect knife ? YES ! there is one, a free one, so on that note, which one are you sending me ? :)
Something with " surgical steel ".
Q for future FAQ: Which lock types are most tolerant of manufacturing tolerances ?
You're right -- things can't be very unique or extremely unique but they can be truly unique. Sad that when you only call something unique it sounds not enough anymore :( Good vid :)
Great episode. Really enjoyed it!!
Got to love a condor. Just built .
Hi DCA. I’m looking for a tough work knife. I build bridges and work with a lot of concrete. It needs to be able to deal with having said concrete on it and still be able to open and close.
I'm definitely not DCA but I'd lean more towards a fixed blade or a folder with washers, not ball bearings in the pivot. I can't think of any specific models off hand but I'm sure Cold Steel makes something folding that'd work :)
Check these options out: ua-cam.com/video/lwgb7d2pXo8/v-deo.html
-DCA
Dave, love your video presentations and watch your channel. On this and last week's video you recommend a karmbit blade to a Emailer and for cutting pallet straps. I'm a part time firefighter and oil refinery operator. We get hoses bound with pallet straps. I highly recommend a rescue hook for cutting those it's perfect for the task. My EDC is the Benchmade Auto Triage. Just my thoughts. Thanks.
I have a question on Steel, I have noticed that a lot of Auto knives have CPM 154. Is there a reason why that Steel is used so often in them?
Cost, strength and stainlessness.
It's not necessary, but in an automatic that hits the stop pin with quite a bit of force, it just makes sense to go with something strong, and CPM154 is essentially the strongest stainless steel currently.
Manufacturers want stainless because the average person (read: non-knife nuts) doesn't understand that rust prevention is the responsibility of the user and no one else. Read amazon reviews if you don't believe that.
Now, why they justify using primarily CPM154 because of its strength, but also continue to use Aluminum is the question I have.
My take on different knife steels:
1) Go on line and read about each steel
2) Find the steel that you think is best
3) Try and find the steel to purchase
4) If you can actually find it, crap a ring around yourself at the expense
5) Settle on a cheaper steel because you broke
6) Send Knife Center an apology
7) Tell your grandpa he is a Fudd
Thanks for answering my question, DCA! I didn't even know that Civivi made that?! They gave a huge line of knives though 😁🍻
Serrated hawkbill sounds just right. Karambits might be a bit overkill for a workplace but I'm Looking into the matriarch as wel as the tasman. Thnx for the advise!
Also consider the Spyderco Harpy, or the Spyderco SpyderHawk H1 (if you still can find one from the last sprint run). Those are pretty decent fully serrated hawkbill blades... The tip on the Spyderco C12 family (Civilian, Matriarch 2) is a bit weak since those were designed with a single purpose in mind, not meant for utility work.
Super DCA! In your opinion, what are the virtues and pitfalls of washers vs bearings pivots for edc folders? And what are your recommendations for maintenance?
Nice one as always, love your videos!
I got the Undertaker Bowie, it's quite a workhorse and I really like the oldschool looks. Also worth checking out would be the Condor Dundee Bowie, also a great one with an even longer blade. But blacked out, gotta like this.
Another futuristic knife is the Kershaw Launch 7. In between high end and budget around $100.
A big Bowie always makes me smile. I am convinced that the simple act of holding one will automatically raise your testosterone levels by several points. : }
Something bout a really big knife that just makes you feel more like a man, like an Espada XL in ya pocket
It's a no but the PM2 tanto of super close. Maybe a steel upgrade but honestly I'm not sure what else.
Been a while since I have watched one of your videos, David. I can see that I have been missing out!
Glad to have you back Fritz! -DCA
Hey DCA - There WAS a fairly "Perfect" knife for a while, you may have heard of it: It was the Canteen Knife in CPM-3V by a company called Nordsmith. Unfortunately, through material shortages or some other unfortunate happenstance, the steel was lowered to CPM-154, which is still a very good steel, but not quite up to the standards of CPM-3V. Maybe the supplier could try to find some CPM-4V or some Z-Wear or Z-Max. ;-)
;-)
With the coffin shaped handle and the 6 pins on each side is pretty cool on the Undertaker Bowie.
And that makes me think of a most serious question…what knife would Mark Callaway (the Undertaker) carry?
Would totally go with cold steel ti-lite, for the pocket deployment option. 👍
Another cool pocket deployable dagger is the ganzo adimanti samson
Used to have 1 through 8 in the QCQ KERSHAW
Thank you for your information and opinions . You helped me decide on what kind of knife I need. I'm going to be looking for the artisancutlery hornet . I believe it to be the knife I have been looking for . Thanks again and GOD bless !
Hey DCA I’m currently really interested in getting a halfbreed LSK-01 large survival knife (drop point version) but don’t exactly have $365 to spend on one. Is there something similar to that in the $100-$200 range that the Knifecenter carries? Thanks and cheers from Canada!
Hawkbill knives are underrated. I suggest a hawkbill wth a gentler curve like a kershaw launch 10 scherade karambit or a mushroom knife for the guy working in shipping
Kershaw Launch 10 is a nice hawkbill auto. Still, maybe a fully serrated hawkbill such as Spyderco Harpy, Spyderco Tasman, or Spyderco SpyderHawk (if he could still find a new unit from the last sprint run) would be good options if he has to cut fibrous things like cords, ropes, nets, straps, etc. Of course they're great for boxes too.
@@tamgiaonguyen2454 from experience the serated hawkbills are a pain in the ass especially at sharpening, rocking the blade back and forth on the spine usually does the trick and a perk of a hawkbill is as the tip wears down it slowly becomes a recurve tanto then a warncliff
What is your opinion on the best fishing knives? Something budget friendly and rust resistant?
Best neck knives? Pros and cons discussion? Stainless? Neck straps? Scales vs paracord wrap vs naked? Mora vs custom? Maybe for long trail hiking, AT, PCT, CAMINO... Texas
Got your neck knives right here: ua-cam.com/video/n_yGziPGhGs/v-deo.html
Question. What folding knife would you recommend that has a blade length over 4.5" that is not Cold Steel? Nothing against them I own several The XL Talwar and XL Espada being my favorites.
Love the KniFeAQ series, keep it up!
1. AD-15 for Cyberpunk? Especially the Blacked out one.
2. What about the Folts Karamin for Pallet Straps and Package Opening? I've used mine for shipping/receiving for years, and its great! Or the Cold Steel Tuff-Lite series? I've never used one, but they are purpose built for these sorts of tasks.
3. I'm surprised you acknowledge the "what knife for self-defense" types of questions. First off, it's hard to take these people seriously, as most of them don't know anything about knife fighting in the first place, and are just going to get themselves in trouble. Anyone who actually knows how to knife fight (IE; has TRAINING), doesn't need help picking a knife. Also, aren't you worried about opening yourself up to liability suits by suggesting a knife for this type of use?
4. Perfect knife that need no improvement? Well, it depends on how you look at it. Yes, you are right in that ANY knife can be improved, but how far can those improvements go without changing the knife so much that it's not the same knife anymore? The real question is, "is there a knife that is so perfect in it's design, function, and intended use (maybe add aesthetics or price-point to the mix also), that it can't be improved upon without changing it into a different knife altogether." To THAT question, I think that there probably ARE definite answers; Spyderco PM2, Mora Companion, Benchmade Osborne... there are others of course, but this reply is long enough as it is.
5. As far as the bowie knife, the Condor is a great choice, though I'm a fan of the Cold Steel Wild West Bowie, in that price range, which also comes with a leather sheath. The Cold Steel Frontier Bowie can also usually found for around 100 dollars as well, and is another great "traditional" style Bowie.
6. Are we sure that the last question wasn't a troll? :)
Take care and keep up the great work!
I am hearing a lot about Vero Engineering knives. Can you review the Vero Synopsis. What makes the knives so sought after. What are they about?
Kubey makes some excellent cyberpunk knives. Try the Avenger folder or Razor fixed blade to get your cyberpunk on. 🤟🏻
Scalpel type - Boker Wagner Urban. I have one: Heavy Duty scalpel.
I think the CRKT Raikiri is a cyberpunk knife you should have mentioned as well.
Looking for a knife I can keep in my bunker gear when I am on duty as a FF. I need it to be tough, stainless isn’t as big of a priority since I will keep it oiled but a Kydex sheath is preferred. it needs to be usable with my turnout gloves on, I wear a 2XL, so the bigger the handle the better. I need to be able to use it in the dark and in high stress situations. I’m leaning towards a fixed blade for toughness and simplicity of use. I just need it to fit in the cargo pocket on my turnouts. I can fit a normal set of channel locks no problem for size comparison. Thanks!
Hi David. Was hoping you could help me with ideas for a secondary carry knife for work. I main a standard S30V G10 Manix 2 at work and am always hesitant to hand it off to co workers when they need to borrow a knife. I work at a nursery so it’s going to see fairly hard use. Main requirements are A. Something easy to resharpen/re-profile if they ding it. B. Not too expensive ($75 budget ballpark). C It’s going to be carried in my back left pocket and I’d like for it to be deployable in a reverse grip by my off hand (I’m fairly adept at thumb stud flicking with my ring finger from this position). C. Mid-ish sized please (no smaller than a Terminus XR, no bigger than a Voyager). Thanks! PS. No back locks.
PSS. No D2! I live in Houston and sweat profusely at work so rust is an issue.
Ontario Rat, either size, all day long. Nice and inexpensive, dual thumbstuds and 4 position clip should allow you to put it in that pocket in a way you could get it out. -DCA
i'm sure he can find an aftermarket deep carry pocket clip for the emerson knives...try lynch or flytanium
EMERSON has deep carry clips for his knives on his website, but they kinda defeat the purpose like he said. I put one on a couple of mine, switched them back within a couple of days.
Thanks for the great videos DCA love hearing what you think always enjoy . Have a great day sir .
I think the Benchmade 940 would be tough to improve upon for my usage, very subjective but it is a great marriage of EDC (with good utility) and a gentleman's knife.
Question: Torn on an auto knife for EDC, no size restrictions in my area. Considering a 940 auto (9400), a pro-tech tr series knife but I am open to suggestions for a knife that is relatively light and small but with good utility (3"-3.8" range). The Protech has been tough to find in a standard color way with a stonewashed or non coated blade. I have EDC'd my 940 for 7 years now and I have bought many other knives from good manufacturers (spyderco has gotten money for 6 knives from me haha, as well as 4 other Benchmade) but the 940 is just right for my usage but I Feel weird buying an auto version of a knife I already own so I wanted to see what an expert thought for other ideas or your thoughts on the Pro-tech tr series.
Best channel. Love you guys. Thank you David and team. Is there any chance you could go over maybe the best way to clean your knives? If you’ are using them outdoors and then wanting to cook with them for example.
Could you show us your most expensive knife and least expensive. Then largest folder vs smallest stuff like that as a wildcard pick?
on the "perfect" knifes... PM2 is hard to improve. Sure, different steels and blade shapes has been offered. But the overall knife is still the same as the og PM2. Good allrounder. Thanks
I agree with you on that one, PM2 was the first word that came up in my mind when David asked that.
ZT 0562Ti is about the perfect knife for me. The only two things that could be improved is 1) set one side of the pivot into the scale so that you only need one bit driver to disassemble the knife and 2) give it a better name.
I heard that the Millennium Falcon made the Kessel Run in less than twelve Kershaw knives!
Can you please make a review of the buck large persuit knife
For the guy wanting a knife with pocket deployment, I suggest getting a spyderco delica with the Emerson wave and buy a deep carry clip for it
Hey David, I’m interested in buying a DPx Gear HEST/F 3.0 3D Ti Flipper Knife, the regular one, not the Leggaro one. I can’t seem to find any reviews of it. I mainly just want to know it the insides are milled out. I’m not a fan of milled out/skeletonized knives, I know the Leggaro version is milled out. I would assume the regular one isn’t but some photos make them look milled out. Please and thank you!
DCA, what are the best serrated folders? What are they best useful for? Thanks.
Love the vids kept up the hard work god bless
My perfect knife: Artisan Virginian; s35vn, shredded carbon fiber scales. The fit and finish are impeccable, extremely slicey, extremely sharp tip. For my personal preference, it doesn't get much better
I really like that helix
Crocodile Dundee impression was spot on
Weird question here... in the Marvel movies, Loki likes to use knives and daggers. If he asked you to recommend some viking worthy blades, what would you suggest?
I feel like the viper maga is near perfect. One of my favorite knives.
I have the Klecker $85 knife & the lock release is almost impossible to release.
What is your suggestion for a first camp axe/machete thats more budget friendly? something that can take a beating without beating the bank.
I like a steel that gets raiser sharp quickly like 12c27/vg10 and holds the edgy long enough ,quick touch ups back to razor.
Been loving all the knives and exclusives I’ve been getting from knife center. I have a particular issue. I am an automotive mechanic by trade and I’ve noticed if I have a pocket knife in my right front pocket it will sometimes scape the bottom of the steering wheel getting in and out. I wonder if you have any suggestions for a EDC pocket knife with a “gentler” pocket clip material.
Perhaps something with a wire pocket clip... lots of options from Spyderco and some others. -DCA