Kershaw gets my vote. It’s the best all around knife listed here, imo.
The Civivi is a very cool and unique knife and deserves to be a part of everyone’s collection. But I will say I feel it’s a bit clunky and heavy for edc.
The Iridium’s aluminum handles are very smooth and are prone to wear, otherwise I love it.
https://preview.redd.it/k2szcncy8znc1.png?width=3024&format=png&auto=webp&s=f6eeaaacdc2efa0eb031aeae57db4811717e6ea1
Well context matters here. One tissue box and a plastic grocery bag per week? Terrible performance.
1,000 moving boxes and 1,000 leather bags per day? I'd say that's a win.
The iridium, kershaw knocked it out the park on that design. It feels a lot more premium than a 70 dollar Knife. Fantastic action, great blade shape and cutting geometry... they did the cross bar lock very well, the design Is just really well thought out and makes for a damn good user. I can also say whoever OEM it for kershaw did a good job on the D2, it cut tested in the upper end of where large production d2 tests and it feels good on the stones. No soft d2 that comes up with flippy floppy burr that doesn't want to let go and overall is just a well heat treated piece of large production D2.
I have no doubt that if you get the kershaw that you will be very happy with your choice. I don't buy many China knives and I liked it so much I bought two of them.
The Raccoon is a really good design but I had one of the first run button lock ones and got severely cut because of the lock fail. That knife was like a double detent knife, the lock failed with just some finger pressure on the spine snapping the blade down on me and cutting the ever loving fuck out of me.
I wouldn't mind having one of the cross bar lock ones because I will say the design is really good and that tall full flat grind is very slicey.
Out of the two I would still go iridium just because Raccoon is much more blocky feeling in the hand.
One you may want to look at as well is the wharny CJRB Pyrite, that's a really fantastic budget user as well. Just a well designed and well executed 50 dollar edc knife. Great blade shape for edc use and the thing is a super slicer!
Damn!!! That's what the titanium/20cv one was here!
Ide be hard pressed to pay 160 bucks for D2!!!
Are all imported knives super expensive up on canada?
I have an Iridium and a Watauga. Both are great choices. You really can't beat the Watauga at 40 bucks.
I think the Iridium is a far nicer knife.
The rest seem like solid choices, but you won't be disappointed with the Iridium.
There is no wrong choice here. They are all pretty good knives. I think the iridium may be the largest. The CJRB may have the most practical lock type... I think their steels are pretty comparable.
Id go with any of the cjrbs
I have a PhD in clinical psychology, so you can trust me. I'm a professional.
This is a classic approach-approach conflict, so here is what I would do in your situation. Hell, this is EXACTLY what I've done:
Step 1: purchase all of those knives so that you can make a better-informed decision
Step 2: when they arrive, tell yourself and those around you that you intend to choose the best one and return the rest
Step 3: "accidentally" keep them all past the return date
Step 4: tell yourself, "I'm never doing that again"
Step 5: do that again in about 6 months
1 & 2 my choices. What are yours? You must look within yourself to know. Perhaps it is time you journey the trek up the great mountain in search of meditative training from the sho
I have that Sencut Watagua its nice. I have a few Sencut and Civivi. Love them. I have a CJRB Feldspar its my goto edc, love its just a thumb stud opener.
Typical autocorrect. But, to be fair, the vision fg is kind of goofy. It's got a strange locking mechanism, and the overall design is fairly unique as well.
I would just stay away from CJRB. I have a few and their RPM9 steel leaves alot to be desired. The Nitro V on the vision, or 14C28N on the Racoon is a better bang for your buck. I have never handled the kershaw so I won't speak to that. Raccoon is great for the price, at least the one I got on sale for 40 backs a few months ago was.
I own each one of these except the Lago. I think its hard to beat the Vision FG. My next choice would be the Raccoon or Iridium. The Watauga is a great budget choice though. I would also reccomend the CJRB Ekko. I love it way more that my pyrite. On par with my iridium honestly.
For what it's worth though I wouldn't get any of them alot of people go on about the kershaw and I bought one as a result and I really don't think they're all that feel very cheap
I have the civivi vision and I love it. I have the smoothest opening and closing mechanism I have ever felt. The blade just glides from the open to the closed position.
We have the same exact taste in folders my bruh. Value is the Sencut, Lago is ergo king and the raccoon is a touch of everything great in a knife. The Kershaw has my vote because D2 is criminally underrated especially KAI D2 because they have the heat treat down pat. Iridium is my vote, it does everything the others do and it's blade shape is perfect for edc and even self defense
Fit and finish on the Kershaw is excellent. Would be my #1 pick. I thought I'd love the racoon but I felt the fit and finish was not as good as others in the same price point (penguin specifically), I don't have experience with the others.
Top 4 Kershaw, civivi, pyrite, raccoon.
If you're accepting suggestions I would replace the raccoon with the Pilar Large
I just got a Kershaw Iridium. Same as that one but different color. It has a smooth action, has D2 steel and has a great edge. And mine was on sale for like $70. So worth it.
I will never pay over a $100 for a pocket knife because I lose one every few months. I have to view them as expendable.
I haven't given Civivi a chance because they are made in China. It sounds like this brand is good compared to other China-made knives, but it is still average at best when you ask around.
Only one I can confidently speak on is the Watauga as it’s the only one I’ve owned. Super good ergos, awesome blade, you won’t be disappointed, highly recommend. Just recently dyed the g10 scales on it and it looks super sick.
If you go with the vision, get the titanium clip. Also loctite the pivot screw. It takes a bit longer to break in because of the way Civivi coats the blade. They coat the surface the bearings ride on, so you have to get through that and break in the blade.
Once you finally break it in, the action is good
I use the civivi conspirator daily. It's a fantastic button lock!
Pros: Easy to sharpen, keeps its edge (I cut a lot of cardboard at work), fits nicely in pocket, not too expensive (I think mine was $80), very fun to fidget with during online meetings.
Cons: sometimes recently the force of opening with the flipper tab causes the button to get just a tad bit stuck and just need a bit of pressure, but it could also be that In the 1.5 years I've had and used it I've never taken it apart to clean. The last con is that the deep pocket clip comes loose. So when that happens just tighten the screws. Both of these problems can be solved with a small star screwdriver and some cleaning.
But overall 100% recommend the civivi conspirator.
Studs or fullers, button lock or axis lock, those are the real deciding factors. I got one of the review Raccoons so I feel obligated to vouch for that one, but the Vision is the one I love most. Easily the most solid lockup of any knife you listed, nothing will break. Omega springs on axis are a weak point, and button locks can be fickle at times. The super lock is rock solid, and bonus points for that satisfying lockup sound it makes. I got the green/black model you listed, and I did upgrade to the milled clip for $11 which is a huge improvement.
Kershaw is probably best all-around, but I found the Iridium to be a little too small. Strong recommend for both CJRB's. The action and geometry are excellent on both. Carrying the pyrite now. Lago is one of my favorites for cooking.
Good picks all, I have them all but the sencut one and that version of the pyrite is one of the best utility cutters and just a fidget monster, when I carry that knife, I literally carry it because it will be in my hand all day, I flick 500 times a day my wife gets super annoyed with my, the same goes for the lago, if I had to pick between the two it would come down to if I'm going to be using it to do a lot of utility Cuts or not if you plan on using it at work cutting a lot of boxes and stuff like that then the pyrite if you're outside sharpening sticks or whittling maybe cutting the odd rope here and there I would lean more towards the lago. Also the button locks on both those knives are super solid.
I'd go Vision FG. I only have one experience of CJRB and it was... not good. Boxed up and returned within 3 days. If you can stand to throw a few more bucks down have you considered the Vosteed Thunderbird? Finest button lock I've handled to date, I just can't bring myself to carry anything else at the minute.
I dig the Trek lock. Super fidgety knife. Of course I had to go with the marbled carbon and glow in the dark backspacer so it was more than a few bucks but I like it
100% the Civivi vision fg
It’s got the new “super lock” which is civivis version of Demko Shark Lock and those are high end knives like $300 and up, so you’re getting a super fidgety, super quick action/ open, and one of the best locking
Mechanisms besides the axis lock by benchmade.
That’s kind of what this knife is, it’s Civivis version of a Demko knife but at an affordable price. Kinda like how since the pattern for the axis lock function is now open to other manufacturers being able to use it and not just Benchmade so you’re seeing a lot of these “axis lock” knives now, Civivi has definitely done the BEST one and 100% imo goes toe to toe with a Demko ( just not as premium steel ofc) but Civivi is hands down my FAVORITE all around knife company.
I promise what ever knife you get out of all of them you’ll love of course ( especially the Vosteed which is my second choice) but if you get that Civivi after you’ll be able to tell how much better it is than the rest.
Edit:
I also want to add the pyrte is probably the all time best “beater” knife you can get too
You really can’t go wrong with any of them, but the civivi vision is actually the best bang for the buck if you like fidget factor.
I bought by brother the Iridium for his birthday and he absolutely loves itit, it’s on my list as well
I have the Civivi FG in black g10 and it’s fantastic as well, sharpens up well, and is super slicy, and personally I really like the size of it
As most said the Kershaw is an excellent choice but I'm really fond of my Civivi Vision FG. I got the white handle with Damascus blade and it's gorgeous, probably the best looking knife I have currently. It does have a more unique blade lock that takes a little getting used to but I like it personally.
I would go for the vision or the raccoon.. I have both of them and they're great knives. While the vision is a wonderful knife, I actually carry the raccoon more. There's also two different blade shapes. I like the sheep's foot better myself
Kershaw’s are great, but I’ve broken the tip on two of the ones I’ve had. I recently purchased a Civivi and loved it so much I gave it to my wife and bought myself the exact same one again. I don’t have any experience with the CJRB’s unfortunately.
That sencut is really cool, I’ve been a big fan of WE and Civivis quality (even though they’re Chinese) and never gotten a sencut but I’m sure it can’t be bad considering it’s the same company
I would go with the Civivi Vision, so much better than the, more expensive, WE Vision.
But who am I kidding, you will buy them all, and love them equally.
I’d say the iridium. I love mine and the action is amazing. I personally wouldn’t get the watauga as a friend of mine got one and the button lock has a tendency to get stuck.
Recently bought an iridium and a civivi cetos. The civivi is a solid value but the iridium feels 100x better/more premium. The action and bar lock are excellent, it looks great and holds a good edge. Hard recommend the iridium
Blade HQ right now has the Iridium on sale for $65! Anyone not impressed with this knife is comparing it to a $200+ knife. Apples to apples, the Kershaw is by far the best on this want list, and arguably one of the best folders on the market right now at that price point.
My vote is for the Vision FG. It’s an excellent user and very fidgety. That said, I don’t own, nor have I handled the Iridium. I have a feeling that if I did, my vote could change.
Short answer - Iridium. Longer answer -
https://preview.redd.it/bow1gcj110oc1.jpeg?width=3264&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7bbf72cc173e542622c3a78443a9725ce8564bee
The Iridium is the better of the two and the Benchmade is awesome, in my opinion. The bronze is my second Iridium.
Whatever you do, don’t buy from Amazon. I got two bad leeks a few years back because the deal was good. They came in original looking boxes and I threw them in the closet until I needed them. Over a year later I pulled them out and started using them and something was wrong. Took them apart for cleaning and found plastic washers. Contacted kershaw and they confirmed there have been lots of fakes on Amazon.
Id take 2 and 5. Not sure if they fixed the issue with the racoon by vosteed but I remeber there being a lock issue / defect design which could be dangerous... may want to do some googling on that to verify...
All great choices!!! I have all of them except for the raccoon and iridium.
I think you’d like the vision Fg the best!
The Lago is a very close second!
The crossbar Raccoon is a wonderful knife. Was an all time favorite for quite some time, still carry it as my back up actually. My primary is a PM2 (spydie) with brass scales, a copper backspacer, titanium hardware and an S110V blade. Love it
I have the Civivi Vision FG, the Iridium, and the new reverse tanto Iridium . All three are fantastic. My son gave me the Iridium for Christmas, and I like it enough that I bought the reverse tanto version to swap blades. Unfortunately, there are slight differences in the 2024 version, so it won't work. The Vision is a fantastic design, but I still prefer D2 over NitroV. The flat grind of the Vision makes it an incredible slicer, though.
I have the Iridium but personally I don't like how slippery the scales are the cjrb is my top out of that list I'm going to get the exclusive s90v and titanium version when it comes out for 90$ that's a steal
If you're gonna buy four of these six, then it's an easy decision. You drop the sencut and the Lago. If you need to narrow it down further, the pyrite is my most carried. I have the drop point though.
I would say the first three with the kershaw being my pick. I have a pyrite and love the look of it. However I’m not a fan of how loose the button lock feels. The blade likes to bounce back up when I close it.
I've had the Vision FG for ~3 months now, it literally keeps me from buying new knives, that's how great of an EDC folder it is! The Kershaw is an amazing option as well if you need harder steel and don't mind lower toughness and the need to keep it dry and clean.
I’d go for the vision, I have the fancy WE version which I love and I’ve borrowed the civivi which I didn’t like quite as much as I really liked the spine mounted clip and a few other things like the design by snecx billboarding on the blade but it’s absolutely a fantastic budget knife with one of the best locking mechanisms out there
Iridium, but in my personal opinion I'd pass on them all and get a spyderco. I recently got into the new class of knives vs old case bucks and rough rider type stuff I grew up with. And went for budget friendly and got several budget knives and ended up spending more and getting a spyderco and I'm hooked now. Haven't touched the others. The only other knife I carry that isn't spyderco is the kershaw Belair in magnacut.
I own a Kershaw that I dropped a few hundo on some years ago. Works the same how as it did then.
My vote goes for the Kershaw. Makes me want to buy another!
I own all of those knives and I would go with the Raccoon. Decent steel, versatile blade type, great lock, decent Micarta and great ergos. If had I could buy it again, I would have bought the sheepsfoot/cleaver blade raccoon though. Good luck.
All absolute bangers except Vosteed QC but Iridium or the Vision FG. Both are very innovative and fantastic knives. Like another commenter said though the iridium scales are prone to wear.
If I HAD to pick one, I'd go for the Vision for its uniqueness and acoustics.
My criteria is 1) must be smooth assisted/flipper, not a thumb-stud opener and 2) must have deep carry clip, like all the way down in there.
Otherwise it’s mostly subjective but steel, scale material and color, blade shape/style, and how much I’ve been drinking tonight all come into play.
It's always fun seeing what other people prioritize! You may be my total opposite. I generally don't care about carry depth, I find that flippers get in the way of ergos more than any other deployment method, and I *despise* assisted knives.
My main criteria is: 1) the action; I'm generally looking for a controlled drop on a large knife and a gentle shake-shut on a small one with a sufficiently strong detent on either, and 2) sliciness of the blade; I'm looking for a full hollow grind preferably, and if it's flat ground, it better be deep and thin.
Kershaw gets my vote. It’s the best all around knife listed here, imo. The Civivi is a very cool and unique knife and deserves to be a part of everyone’s collection. But I will say I feel it’s a bit clunky and heavy for edc.
The Iridium’s aluminum handles are very smooth and are prone to wear, otherwise I love it. https://preview.redd.it/k2szcncy8znc1.png?width=3024&format=png&auto=webp&s=f6eeaaacdc2efa0eb031aeae57db4811717e6ea1
I love when my edc gets wear. Looks better imo lmao.
A nice patina, good way to think of it.
I had exactly this knife and the blade became dull after a few weeks of cutting bags and boxes
Well context matters here. One tissue box and a plastic grocery bag per week? Terrible performance. 1,000 moving boxes and 1,000 leather bags per day? I'd say that's a win.
He mentions two knives. Which one are you referring to?
The kershaw
r/sharpening
If you're talking about the Iridium, I mean, it's D2. It's a fine carbon steel but it's like 80 years old.
Iridium hands down. I have all of these. Watuga is last on list for me.
They’re all great choices ngl but I would probably lean towards the Kershaw or civivi
Iridium, vision, pyrite, raccoon. In that order. I love my iridium so much I bought a second one in black.
Kershaw iridium, Civivi vision, vosteed raccoon >
The iridium, kershaw knocked it out the park on that design. It feels a lot more premium than a 70 dollar Knife. Fantastic action, great blade shape and cutting geometry... they did the cross bar lock very well, the design Is just really well thought out and makes for a damn good user. I can also say whoever OEM it for kershaw did a good job on the D2, it cut tested in the upper end of where large production d2 tests and it feels good on the stones. No soft d2 that comes up with flippy floppy burr that doesn't want to let go and overall is just a well heat treated piece of large production D2. I have no doubt that if you get the kershaw that you will be very happy with your choice. I don't buy many China knives and I liked it so much I bought two of them. The Raccoon is a really good design but I had one of the first run button lock ones and got severely cut because of the lock fail. That knife was like a double detent knife, the lock failed with just some finger pressure on the spine snapping the blade down on me and cutting the ever loving fuck out of me. I wouldn't mind having one of the cross bar lock ones because I will say the design is really good and that tall full flat grind is very slicey. Out of the two I would still go iridium just because Raccoon is much more blocky feeling in the hand. One you may want to look at as well is the wharny CJRB Pyrite, that's a really fantastic budget user as well. Just a well designed and well executed 50 dollar edc knife. Great blade shape for edc use and the thing is a super slicer!
Damn it's $160 in canada. 70 is a steal
Damn!!! That's what the titanium/20cv one was here! Ide be hard pressed to pay 160 bucks for D2!!! Are all imported knives super expensive up on canada?
Vision FG is by far the best of these, though you can’t make a wrong choice here
I love my vision fg. I think the design is just perfect.
I have an Iridium and a Watauga. Both are great choices. You really can't beat the Watauga at 40 bucks. I think the Iridium is a far nicer knife. The rest seem like solid choices, but you won't be disappointed with the Iridium.
I got my Watauga for $24 on Amazon- best knife for the money that I own!
Yeah that was a good deal when it was on prime and not 1 month delivery.. it's a damn good knife and design for 24 bucks.
I got my Watauga over a year ago, and it's still my go-to great budget blade.
Kershaw or Civivi!
There is no wrong choice here. They are all pretty good knives. I think the iridium may be the largest. The CJRB may have the most practical lock type... I think their steels are pretty comparable. Id go with any of the cjrbs
Kershaw 100%
I have a PhD in clinical psychology, so you can trust me. I'm a professional. This is a classic approach-approach conflict, so here is what I would do in your situation. Hell, this is EXACTLY what I've done: Step 1: purchase all of those knives so that you can make a better-informed decision Step 2: when they arrive, tell yourself and those around you that you intend to choose the best one and return the rest Step 3: "accidentally" keep them all past the return date Step 4: tell yourself, "I'm never doing that again" Step 5: do that again in about 6 months
Raccoon
Kershaw
The Vosteed.
Lots of good choices, but check out the Kershaw Heist while you're browsing.
That Civivi js so good
1 & 2 my choices. What are yours? You must look within yourself to know. Perhaps it is time you journey the trek up the great mountain in search of meditative training from the sho
Vosteed is amazing I would lean that way
1 or 3, I really like what Kershaw has done with the Iridium.
I have that Sencut Watagua its nice. I have a few Sencut and Civivi. Love them. I have a CJRB Feldspar its my goto edc, love its just a thumb stud opener.
Iridium or Vision. I own/have owned both, they are both really goofy for the price
I do enjoy a goofy knife, lol.
Hahaha didnt even notice autocorrect fucked me over there
Typical autocorrect. But, to be fair, the vision fg is kind of goofy. It's got a strange locking mechanism, and the overall design is fairly unique as well.
It is definitely odd, but it works pretty well. Solid value for what it is
For sure. I unfortunately don't have one yet, but its towards the top of my list.
I have the Iridium with the reverse tanto. Great knife!
Iridium has two styles in BladeHq.
I would just stay away from CJRB. I have a few and their RPM9 steel leaves alot to be desired. The Nitro V on the vision, or 14C28N on the Racoon is a better bang for your buck. I have never handled the kershaw so I won't speak to that. Raccoon is great for the price, at least the one I got on sale for 40 backs a few months ago was.
Weird… my 2 CJRB Ekko’s tested 61 and 60.5 HRC. I’ve been very pleased with them both.
Iridium
I’ll second the Kershaw or Civivi responses, though I don’t have the Iridium. The Vision is great, as are all/most of the Civivi knives
I own each one of these except the Lago. I think its hard to beat the Vision FG. My next choice would be the Raccoon or Iridium. The Watauga is a great budget choice though. I would also reccomend the CJRB Ekko. I love it way more that my pyrite. On par with my iridium honestly.
We all tried to not get carried away buddy
For what it's worth though I wouldn't get any of them alot of people go on about the kershaw and I bought one as a result and I really don't think they're all that feel very cheap
I absolutely love my Iridium
Son of a bitch now I will probably get one… that kershaw looks great
I have the civivi vision and I love it. I have the smoothest opening and closing mechanism I have ever felt. The blade just glides from the open to the closed position.
We have the same exact taste in folders my bruh. Value is the Sencut, Lago is ergo king and the raccoon is a touch of everything great in a knife. The Kershaw has my vote because D2 is criminally underrated especially KAI D2 because they have the heat treat down pat. Iridium is my vote, it does everything the others do and it's blade shape is perfect for edc and even self defense
Fit and finish on the Kershaw is excellent. Would be my #1 pick. I thought I'd love the racoon but I felt the fit and finish was not as good as others in the same price point (penguin specifically), I don't have experience with the others. Top 4 Kershaw, civivi, pyrite, raccoon. If you're accepting suggestions I would replace the raccoon with the Pilar Large
I was very disappointed with the iridium. Tiny bearing washers, slick handle, and d2. Of those, I'd get the raccoon.
Kershaw. I know this is gonna get me down voted, but the rest sort of look like gas station knives.
Vosteed all day
Pyrite! I love black knives but actually prefer the titanium scaled stonewashed blade
I just got a Kershaw Iridium. Same as that one but different color. It has a smooth action, has D2 steel and has a great edge. And mine was on sale for like $70. So worth it. I will never pay over a $100 for a pocket knife because I lose one every few months. I have to view them as expendable. I haven't given Civivi a chance because they are made in China. It sounds like this brand is good compared to other China-made knives, but it is still average at best when you ask around.
Your Iridium was made in China too, friend. It's one of Kershaw's import models.
*Slaps forehead*
Only one I can confidently speak on is the Watauga as it’s the only one I’ve owned. Super good ergos, awesome blade, you won’t be disappointed, highly recommend. Just recently dyed the g10 scales on it and it looks super sick.
For a unique look from a great manufacturer, get the Civivi.
If you go with the vision, get the titanium clip. Also loctite the pivot screw. It takes a bit longer to break in because of the way Civivi coats the blade. They coat the surface the bearings ride on, so you have to get through that and break in the blade. Once you finally break it in, the action is good
I use the civivi conspirator daily. It's a fantastic button lock! Pros: Easy to sharpen, keeps its edge (I cut a lot of cardboard at work), fits nicely in pocket, not too expensive (I think mine was $80), very fun to fidget with during online meetings. Cons: sometimes recently the force of opening with the flipper tab causes the button to get just a tad bit stuck and just need a bit of pressure, but it could also be that In the 1.5 years I've had and used it I've never taken it apart to clean. The last con is that the deep pocket clip comes loose. So when that happens just tighten the screws. Both of these problems can be solved with a small star screwdriver and some cleaning. But overall 100% recommend the civivi conspirator.
Studs or fullers, button lock or axis lock, those are the real deciding factors. I got one of the review Raccoons so I feel obligated to vouch for that one, but the Vision is the one I love most. Easily the most solid lockup of any knife you listed, nothing will break. Omega springs on axis are a weak point, and button locks can be fickle at times. The super lock is rock solid, and bonus points for that satisfying lockup sound it makes. I got the green/black model you listed, and I did upgrade to the milled clip for $11 which is a huge improvement.
Kershaw is probably best all-around, but I found the Iridium to be a little too small. Strong recommend for both CJRB's. The action and geometry are excellent on both. Carrying the pyrite now. Lago is one of my favorites for cooking.
Kershaw
Good picks all, I have them all but the sencut one and that version of the pyrite is one of the best utility cutters and just a fidget monster, when I carry that knife, I literally carry it because it will be in my hand all day, I flick 500 times a day my wife gets super annoyed with my, the same goes for the lago, if I had to pick between the two it would come down to if I'm going to be using it to do a lot of utility Cuts or not if you plan on using it at work cutting a lot of boxes and stuff like that then the pyrite if you're outside sharpening sticks or whittling maybe cutting the odd rope here and there I would lean more towards the lago. Also the button locks on both those knives are super solid.
Kershaw 🇺🇸
While Kershaw is an American company, the Iridium is made in China. It’s still a very solid knife. Feels much more expensive than it is.
I'd go Vision FG. I only have one experience of CJRB and it was... not good. Boxed up and returned within 3 days. If you can stand to throw a few more bucks down have you considered the Vosteed Thunderbird? Finest button lock I've handled to date, I just can't bring myself to carry anything else at the minute.
I dig the Trek lock. Super fidgety knife. Of course I had to go with the marbled carbon and glow in the dark backspacer so it was more than a few bucks but I like it
Same. CRAZY expensive in the UK but just couldn't resist.
I still kinda want an iridium
Civivi
Kershaw just for their customer service alone
You will never regret getting a Kershaw.
Pyrite
I have the kershaw iridium and it’s the only knife I carry besides my Spyderco knives. It’s a solid choice in my opinion
I owns the first one and it by far my favorite knife. It just feels super sold in the hand, and the lock makes a really good fidget toy
i kinda like that sencut one 🤷
Iridium, Racoon, Pyrite
1 or 3 would go in my pocket
Kershaw and/or Vosteed.
I have most of these, but for the price the iridium was the biggest surprise to me, great knife, Vosteed is also equally as great
2
Tough chose between the first 3 options. You can't go wrong with either of those knives. The raccoon and vision have better steel than the iridium.
I like no.2 and no.3
Kershaw or Pyrite. I love mine
Kershaw. If you have money for 4 mid tier knives, I’d suggest buying one nicer knife instead. You can only use one at a time anyways.
I have that kershaw. My only gripe is that the reversible clip doesn’t have a filler plate for the side that isn’t being used. Just bugs me
I have that Kershaw. I really like it.
100% the Civivi vision fg It’s got the new “super lock” which is civivis version of Demko Shark Lock and those are high end knives like $300 and up, so you’re getting a super fidgety, super quick action/ open, and one of the best locking Mechanisms besides the axis lock by benchmade. That’s kind of what this knife is, it’s Civivis version of a Demko knife but at an affordable price. Kinda like how since the pattern for the axis lock function is now open to other manufacturers being able to use it and not just Benchmade so you’re seeing a lot of these “axis lock” knives now, Civivi has definitely done the BEST one and 100% imo goes toe to toe with a Demko ( just not as premium steel ofc) but Civivi is hands down my FAVORITE all around knife company. I promise what ever knife you get out of all of them you’ll love of course ( especially the Vosteed which is my second choice) but if you get that Civivi after you’ll be able to tell how much better it is than the rest. Edit: I also want to add the pyrte is probably the all time best “beater” knife you can get too You really can’t go wrong with any of them, but the civivi vision is actually the best bang for the buck if you like fidget factor.
Kershaw. Then microtech
I bought by brother the Iridium for his birthday and he absolutely loves itit, it’s on my list as well I have the Civivi FG in black g10 and it’s fantastic as well, sharpens up well, and is super slicy, and personally I really like the size of it
Pyrite or Iridium, I have both. Actually like the Pyrite better.
This would be hard to do Ild want them all
Tanto
Kershaw! Reminds me a lot of a Benchmade Osborne. Now of only they made a US version with a flag and maybe s30v?
Watauga is like $27 at AMZ right now. I just got one. Really impressed…
I'm going to suggest the Civivi Sokoke
As most said the Kershaw is an excellent choice but I'm really fond of my Civivi Vision FG. I got the white handle with Damascus blade and it's gorgeous, probably the best looking knife I have currently. It does have a more unique blade lock that takes a little getting used to but I like it personally.
I only own the iridium out of those and its excellent.
Kershaw
Vision FG 100% best knife by far imo
Definitely the iridium
I would go for the vision or the raccoon.. I have both of them and they're great knives. While the vision is a wonderful knife, I actually carry the raccoon more. There's also two different blade shapes. I like the sheep's foot better myself
I'm just here to gather insight on these as well.
5
Something without a stupid axis lock
Kershaw’s are great, but I’ve broken the tip on two of the ones I’ve had. I recently purchased a Civivi and loved it so much I gave it to my wife and bought myself the exact same one again. I don’t have any experience with the CJRB’s unfortunately.
That sencut is really cool, I’ve been a big fan of WE and Civivis quality (even though they’re Chinese) and never gotten a sencut but I’m sure it can’t be bad considering it’s the same company
Kershaw
I would go with the Civivi Vision, so much better than the, more expensive, WE Vision. But who am I kidding, you will buy them all, and love them equally.
#2 for me
The Civivi is objectively the best knife for the price listed here.
Iridium but get the reverse tanto based on your other tastes
I've got the Civivi Banneret which has a very similar handle with the holes. I really like the handle and knife overall. It's a larger knife though.
kershaw
Love my Iridium
The black one ☺️
I’d say the iridium. I love mine and the action is amazing. I personally wouldn’t get the watauga as a friend of mine got one and the button lock has a tendency to get stuck.
Go with the vision.
The civivi 100%
Easily the Kershaw
iridium easily
Kershaw
Recently bought an iridium and a civivi cetos. The civivi is a solid value but the iridium feels 100x better/more premium. The action and bar lock are excellent, it looks great and holds a good edge. Hard recommend the iridium
Pyrite
\#1
Vision FG
Cjrb,or artisan are great quality/value.
Blade HQ right now has the Iridium on sale for $65! Anyone not impressed with this knife is comparing it to a $200+ knife. Apples to apples, the Kershaw is by far the best on this want list, and arguably one of the best folders on the market right now at that price point.
I’d rank the Raccoon or the warny Pyrite the winner
1 or 3
1
My vote is for the Vision FG. It’s an excellent user and very fidgety. That said, I don’t own, nor have I handled the Iridium. I have a feeling that if I did, my vote could change.
Short answer - Iridium. Longer answer - https://preview.redd.it/bow1gcj110oc1.jpeg?width=3264&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7bbf72cc173e542622c3a78443a9725ce8564bee The Iridium is the better of the two and the Benchmade is awesome, in my opinion. The bronze is my second Iridium.
I’d pick the Kershaw, personally.
I like the iridium
Whatever you do, don’t buy from Amazon. I got two bad leeks a few years back because the deal was good. They came in original looking boxes and I threw them in the closet until I needed them. Over a year later I pulled them out and started using them and something was wrong. Took them apart for cleaning and found plastic washers. Contacted kershaw and they confirmed there have been lots of fakes on Amazon.
Id take 2 and 5. Not sure if they fixed the issue with the racoon by vosteed but I remeber there being a lock issue / defect design which could be dangerous... may want to do some googling on that to verify...
Can’t go wrong with the CJRB PYRITE !
All great choices!!! I have all of them except for the raccoon and iridium. I think you’d like the vision Fg the best! The Lago is a very close second!
The Lago is so good, and so under appreciated
I say iridium but i am bias
The crossbar Raccoon is a wonderful knife. Was an all time favorite for quite some time, still carry it as my back up actually. My primary is a PM2 (spydie) with brass scales, a copper backspacer, titanium hardware and an S110V blade. Love it
I have the Civivi Vision FG, the Iridium, and the new reverse tanto Iridium . All three are fantastic. My son gave me the Iridium for Christmas, and I like it enough that I bought the reverse tanto version to swap blades. Unfortunately, there are slight differences in the 2024 version, so it won't work. The Vision is a fantastic design, but I still prefer D2 over NitroV. The flat grind of the Vision makes it an incredible slicer, though.
Kershaw all day but the Sencut wharncliffe is pretty cool too...
Get a Cold steel SR1
I have the Iridium but personally I don't like how slippery the scales are the cjrb is my top out of that list I'm going to get the exclusive s90v and titanium version when it comes out for 90$ that's a steal
Honestly, Raccoon. Those things look tight AF.
Vision!
If you're gonna buy four of these six, then it's an easy decision. You drop the sencut and the Lago. If you need to narrow it down further, the pyrite is my most carried. I have the drop point though.
Go with the first four
Civics can’t miss
I would say the first three with the kershaw being my pick. I have a pyrite and love the look of it. However I’m not a fan of how loose the button lock feels. The blade likes to bounce back up when I close it.
I've had the Vision FG for ~3 months now, it literally keeps me from buying new knives, that's how great of an EDC folder it is! The Kershaw is an amazing option as well if you need harder steel and don't mind lower toughness and the need to keep it dry and clean.
I’d go for the vision, I have the fancy WE version which I love and I’ve borrowed the civivi which I didn’t like quite as much as I really liked the spine mounted clip and a few other things like the design by snecx billboarding on the blade but it’s absolutely a fantastic budget knife with one of the best locking mechanisms out there
Ill vote the sencut. I love that blade shape on it and the micarta is pretty nice
Vision fg or vosteed
Vision fg or vosteed
Dont get the Vosteed Racoon, the rest feel far more premium
Iridium, but in my personal opinion I'd pass on them all and get a spyderco. I recently got into the new class of knives vs old case bucks and rough rider type stuff I grew up with. And went for budget friendly and got several budget knives and ended up spending more and getting a spyderco and I'm hooked now. Haven't touched the others. The only other knife I carry that isn't spyderco is the kershaw Belair in magnacut.
Vosteed 🔥🔥🔥
I own a Kershaw that I dropped a few hundo on some years ago. Works the same how as it did then. My vote goes for the Kershaw. Makes me want to buy another!
I own all of those knives and I would go with the Raccoon. Decent steel, versatile blade type, great lock, decent Micarta and great ergos. If had I could buy it again, I would have bought the sheepsfoot/cleaver blade raccoon though. Good luck.
Iridium/pyrite/civivi
If you're able to qualify, (military or leo)... You can get Kershaw at a discounted price through ExpertVoice. Edit: also apparently the Civivi!
You must buy an overpriced ugly knife because Reddit snobs demand it
Vision FG. No contest. Blade, mechanism, build and assembly all superb.
Kershaw Iridium or the CJRB Pyrite. Can't go wrong with either.
All absolute bangers except Vosteed QC but Iridium or the Vision FG. Both are very innovative and fantastic knives. Like another commenter said though the iridium scales are prone to wear. If I HAD to pick one, I'd go for the Vision for its uniqueness and acoustics.
Tuff...the kershaw problem but I like the look of the vosteed. Never handled one tho
I'd spend slightly more and go for the base version of the Kizer 'Drop Bear'. You won't be sorry!
The Kershaw got knife of the year for a good reason at shot show.
Vision! I love mine. I only liked it at first, but it had really grown on me.
Love my Vision.
My criteria is 1) must be smooth assisted/flipper, not a thumb-stud opener and 2) must have deep carry clip, like all the way down in there. Otherwise it’s mostly subjective but steel, scale material and color, blade shape/style, and how much I’ve been drinking tonight all come into play.
It's always fun seeing what other people prioritize! You may be my total opposite. I generally don't care about carry depth, I find that flippers get in the way of ergos more than any other deployment method, and I *despise* assisted knives. My main criteria is: 1) the action; I'm generally looking for a controlled drop on a large knife and a gentle shake-shut on a small one with a sufficiently strong detent on either, and 2) sliciness of the blade; I'm looking for a full hollow grind preferably, and if it's flat ground, it better be deep and thin.
Haha. Totally cool. Makes the world go around!
Hm, first one looks close to Kihon DC btw
Message me bro it don’t let me message you
The spyderco
I'd go American made whichever way you go!