I'll play because I already spend too much time on this question, and because despite endless trial-and-error, I've never quite found my "just right" folder and maybe someone'll read this and suggest one I wasn't aware of...
I carry a knife for two reasons: general daily chores (which mostly amount to opening and breaking down boxes because my bride has made it unofficial policy to single-handedly keep Amazon and the cardboard industry solvent), and as back-up, last-ditch self-defense.
Ideals:
1) 3.5" to 4" blade, preferred just under 4". More blade is better, while staying within local legal limits for a concealed folder. Blade profile strongly weighted toward penetrating and slicing.
2) Flipper. After much experimentation, I find this best in varied situations.
3) Assisted. See above. Better than auto -- paired with flipper it needs even less fine motor movement.
4) Tip down carry. Amazing how much this one ends up being the disqualifier for otherwise good options. Fewer and fewer new models offer this and for me preferred unto required. I carry a folder appendix, and tip down is brought to bear much more efficiently. Add in a flipper and even more so. More so still when assisted; and with assisted's bias toward closure, no concern of accidentally opening while carried.
5) Ergonomics for comfortable and effective forward and edge-out reverse grip; secure hold with no chance of sliding up to edge (functional guard and pronounced first-finger groove); grabby textured scales and jimping.
Concessions can and have been at times, but these are the ideals based on a lot of experimentation. For the last few years the ZT350 has been the daily because it comes the closest. If it had a little more overall dimension, and a blade profile less rounded and big bellied, it'd be perfect as it meets all other criteria, and at a good price point given the quality.
I'm a click from ordering a Halfbreed Blades MILF, which addresses the 350's shortcomings at the expense of being assisted.
As usual, all of this is solved by a (vastly preferred) fixed blade, but local ordinances and all.
Open to suggestions.
Hain’t we got all the fools in town on our side? And ain’t that a big enough majority in any town?
Not sure how well this meets all you needs but thought I'd but it out there.
https://www.bladehq.com/item--Kizer-...k-Knife--52093.
Sadly out of stock, but I would be interested in your and the groups critique
Don’t just sit there – do something short sighted and stupid!
Attractive knife. I like the blade shape, and the handle design is a classic for comfortable hold in different grips.
No tip down carry option is an immediate disqualifier for me. I also wonder if the serrrations on the titanium frame might fall short of enough grippiness in varied conditions.
Hain’t we got all the fools in town on our side? And ain’t that a big enough majority in any town?
I’ve stuck with Benchmade since buying my first one maybe 15 years ago. I find the Axis lock more secure than anything else I’ve had and use it to open the blade with a little flick of the wrist. My preference is for a non-stainless tool steel, currently cpm m4 is my favorite. Cuts through cardboard and those tough plastic packing straps easily and holds an edge like nothing else. Close second is D2, which is very similar. My daily is an Osborne 940, I like a fairly straight edge but with a nice strong point. I should probably buy another one of these just in case.
I'll wager you a PF dollar™ 😎
The lunatics are running the asylum