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BWT
05-01-2020, 07:51 AM
I lost my ZT 0350. I don’t know where. I’ve searched non-stop and it’s been several months.

I had it since October of 2011 and lost it probably October-ish of 2019.

I have been knifeless for the longest since not being in High School now.

I like medium size blades. I like larger grips because it helps manipulate and control the knife when doing heavier cutting tasks. I liked the S30V because it was a very good steel and the knife never rusted.

I like a non-coated blade (DLC) for aesthetics but I carried a coated blade for 8 years and it never rusted. I felt the knife was superbly made, and I miss it.

I am just thinking before I buy another knife I may carry for 5+ years again - ask here.

Uses are mostly office work now, but honestly I’d like something I could use some defensively as well. I’m no knife defense expert, but I do look at it as a worst case scenario.

I’m fairly on track for that same model, but I also haven’t shopped knives in a long time. I thought about a Microtech UTX-85 (apparently some were S30V), but the mechanism doesn’t seem durable enough, the steel changes depending on whatever Microtech feels like at the time, and warranty work again seems on the whims of what happened and what they’ll do to fix it when they can get to it (seeing 6-8 month repair turn times).

Thanks,

LittleLebowski
05-01-2020, 08:15 AM
https://pistol-forum.com/showthread.php?42190-ZT-0350

RJ
05-01-2020, 08:18 AM
Paging blues

blues
05-01-2020, 08:22 AM
Paging blues

There are too many legitimately good choices. Brandon obviously has a handle on the type of knife he wants. Anything from Spyderco, (Golden, CO knives preferred), or ZT of his liking will fit the bill. Those are actually the only two production knife companies I've purchased from in recent years when I had an itch I wanted to scratch.

BWT
05-01-2020, 08:45 AM
Does anyone have a pretty good read on corrosion resistance of S30V?

I do want to do more research and there’s a specific video I need to get back to and watch comparing them, but I figured I’d ask here for first hand accounts and anecdotes.

Also thanks for the link LL!

Guerrero
05-01-2020, 08:52 AM
Spyderco Paramilitary 2. Problem solved.

blues
05-01-2020, 09:09 AM
Does anyone have a pretty good read on corrosion resistance of S30V?

I do want to do more research and there’s a specific video I need to get back to and watch comparing them, but I figured I’d ask here for first hand accounts and anecdotes.

Also thanks for the link LL!

BWT

Brandon, have a look at this link (https://www.bladehq.com/cat--Best-Knife-Steel-Guide--3368) for a reasonably good comparison of some of the most popular steels from the perspectives of edge holding, toughness, corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening.

I think you'll find it useful, and I believe others will as well.

okie john
05-01-2020, 10:01 AM
I lost my ZT 0350. I don’t know where. I’ve searched non-stop and it’s been several months.

Buy another ZT 350. You'll find the one you lost about a week after you take delivery.


Okie John

Clusterfrack
05-01-2020, 10:04 AM
BWT, that sucks. I hate losing things--especially things I've had for a long time, and use regularly. The psychology of loss aversion is strong.

Since you asked for our opinions, I'll give you mine, with no attempt to hide my own biases.

I don't know where you live, but even living near the coast I've never had a problem with corrosion on any knife I didn't dive with. Even my D2 blades are shiny and new looking. But, I really wouldn't care if a little surface corrosion gave one of my hard-use knives a little more character as long as the edge wasn't pitted. I'm much more concerned about edge durability, chipping, or breaking a blade tip. I think S30V is an excellent steel, as are pretty much all the higher end choices. Some are a little harder to sharpen, but I don't care about that.

I carry a ZT 0620 Emerson/Elmax daily, and only a few Spydercos compete with it as my favorite knife. The build quality of every ZT I've handled has been excellent.

That said, I don't love the design of the 0350, or assisted openers in general. I'm not sure what that knife is supposed to be designed for, but the blade is too short and wide for my taste. As well, who needs an assisted opener if the knife is well-made? A good flipper or just a hole or stud will do the job more elegantly and durably. Losing the knife is an opportunity to get something better.

The recommendation of a Spyderco Para2 is an excellent one. As well, the Manix2 is an outstanding knife. Add an aftermarket wave from 5x5 (https://5x5combatsolutions.com/shop/ols/products/pickpocket-exo-ccessory), and don't look back.

The ZT0450CF (https://www.amazon.com/Zero-Tolerance-0450CF-DLC-Coated-Ball-Bearing/dp/B01B77720A) looks like a nice knife.

I bought a UTX-85, but don't have it in hand yet. I don't view it as a hard-use knife, but know people who use theirs daily. Recent reviews of Microtech's CS seem better than before. As well, YouTube videos of detail stripping these knives made it seem pretty straightforward for anyone with decent mechanical skills and a lack of retardation.

Lastly, you are aware that as soon as you press the 'buy' button, your lost knife will appear as if by magic?

rca90gsx
05-01-2020, 10:27 AM
I have a 350 and a 450cf. Love the 450cf for edc size. The 350 is just a tank build by comparison. Feels much stronger and robust forsure.

Clusterfrack
05-01-2020, 10:50 AM
One more thing: if you can afford it, buy a spare if you really love a knife. I have another NIB 0620 in the safe if I ever lose my EDC. Because of course they are now discontinued.

Or: buy from a company that maintains their models long term. Like Spyderco.

JCS
05-01-2020, 11:16 AM
What is your price range?

I want a folding knife that does two things: 1) cuts well 2) won't fail on me

Zt meets neither of those. Especially when compared to other manufacturers like spyderco, bench made and microtech

ZT markets their knives as hard use but my experience with them has been poor. Their lockup is sketchy at best. Yes you may have one that locks up good but for a $200+ knife their very inconsistent. I had one knife (brand new) that would close with a spine whack to the palm of my hand. It took 3 trips to ZT to get "fixed" and each time it returned with the same issues. They claimed there was nothing wrong with it and always blamed it on too much oil on the tang. It literally would fold just striking into the soft flesh of my palm. I'm not the only one. There are lots of videos on YouTube about the issues as well as threads over on blade forums.

Second ZT knives are just awful at cutting. They have huge chunky blades and are not ground thin. Don't fall into thinking you need a prybar as a knife for it to be hard use. There's many factors that go into that. Like quality heat treat (which ZT is not known for), locking mechanism, and the grind of the knife.

Sorry, you did say talk you out of one!

Try something else and I think you'll be very surprised. If you're wanting the hard use tactical folders also check out Emerson. Good American owned and operated company with knives carried by police and military all over the world.

Plus variety is the spice of life. You don't know what you're missing out on in the knife world!

rca90gsx
05-01-2020, 11:18 AM
It was mentioned in another thread, but BladeOps has a waved paramilitary 2 for preorder that looks great.

Guerrero
05-01-2020, 11:36 AM
It was mentioned in another thread, but BladeOps has a qaved paramilitary 2 for preorder that looks great.

Somehow I missed that one. That looks awesome.

dontshakepandas
05-01-2020, 11:44 AM
I think there are a lot of other options at that price point that are better than the ZT0350. I don't like the way the 0350 feels in my hand at all, the blade is too thick to be useful for most EDC tasks, and I don't like assisted openers at all. A good flipper will actually open smoother/faster than the 0350 and you don't have to worry about the torsion bar breaking or it opening in your pocket.

I'd definitely suggest the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 (https://www.amazon.com/Spyderco-ParaMilitary2-Black-PlainEdge-Knife/dp/B003X9WKOO/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1PETLXWBC7H5G&dchild=1&keywords=spyderco+paramilitary+2&qid=1588351953&sprefix=Spyderco%2Caps%2C147&sr=8-1) based on the description of what you like. It outclasses the 0350 in every way unless you are using it to pry (which you shouldn't).

blues
05-01-2020, 12:08 PM
What is your price range?

I want a folding knife that does two things: 1) cuts well 2) won't fail on me

Zt meets neither of those. Especially when compared to other manufacturers like spyderco, bench made and microtech

ZT markets their knives as hard use but my experience with them has been poor. Their lockup is sketchy at best. Yes you may have one that locks up good but for a $200+ knife their very inconsistent. I had one knife (brand new) that would close with a spine whack to the palm of my hand. It took 3 trips to ZT to get "fixed" and each time it returned with the same issues. They claimed there was nothing wrong with it and always blamed it on too much oil on the tang. It literally would fold just striking into the soft flesh of my palm. I'm not the only one. There are lots of videos on YouTube about the issues as well as threads over on blade forums.

Second ZT knives are just awful at cutting. They have huge chunky blades and are not ground thin. Don't fall into thinking you need a prybar as a knife for it to be hard use. There's many factors that go into that. Like quality heat treat (which ZT is not known for), locking mechanism, and the grind of the knife.

Sorry, you did say talk you out of one!

Try something else and I think you'll be very surprised. If you're wanting the hard use tactical folders also check out Emerson. Good American owned and operated company with knives carried by police and military all over the world.

Plus variety is the spice of life. You don't know what you're missing out on in the knife world!

I will only take issue with your making the statement on a very broad basis...and though I've heard and read of issues, I'm not sure what percentage they represent.

That said, I only have three ZTs. An 0550 and 0551, as well as a 0456. All of them are robust and without issues. They aren't the same as my Spydercos, Benchmades, or my many other custom and production knives, but there is a place for them in the arsenal.

I completely understand your point of view but I'm not entirely prepared to throw them under the bus.

BWT
05-01-2020, 01:41 PM
BWT

Brandon, have a look at this link (https://www.bladehq.com/cat--Best-Knife-Steel-Guide--3368) for a reasonably good comparison of some of the most popular steels from the perspectives of edge holding, toughness, corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening.

I think you'll find it useful, and I believe others will as well.

Thank you!

I was contemplating the steel just as I have had a DLC coated blade and this next knife might not be (whatever it is). The strength and edge retention on the S30V is nuts, but it’s also difficult to sharpen.

Also for clusterfrack and okiejohn - I agree entirely about finding it. It’s why I waited six months. I thought perhaps I lost it in my room where I had moved the office in my house. Moved everything back to the old room after my sister-in-law moved out and didn’t come across it.

I have come to terms with it’s probably going to turn up.

Also, I appreciate your opinion clusterfrack, blues, and others. I wanted discourse and welcome it.

Thanks!

BWT
05-01-2020, 01:42 PM
What is your price range?

I want a folding knife that does two things: 1) cuts well 2) won't fail on me

Zt meets neither of those. Especially when compared to other manufacturers like spyderco, bench made and microtech

ZT markets their knives as hard use but my experience with them has been poor. Their lockup is sketchy at best. Yes you may have one that locks up good but for a $200+ knife their very inconsistent. I had one knife (brand new) that would close with a spine whack to the palm of my hand. It took 3 trips to ZT to get "fixed" and each time it returned with the same issues. They claimed there was nothing wrong with it and always blamed it on too much oil on the tang. It literally would fold just striking into the soft flesh of my palm. I'm not the only one. There are lots of videos on YouTube about the issues as well as threads over on blade forums.

Second ZT knives are just awful at cutting. They have huge chunky blades and are not ground thin. Don't fall into thinking you need a prybar as a knife for it to be hard use. There's many factors that go into that. Like quality heat treat (which ZT is not known for), locking mechanism, and the grind of the knife.

Sorry, you did say talk you out of one!

Try something else and I think you'll be very surprised. If you're wanting the hard use tactical folders also check out Emerson. Good American owned and operated company with knives carried by police and military all over the world.

Plus variety is the spice of life. You don't know what you're missing out on in the knife world!

I am probably at about $100-150. I could go above that if it really merited it. But, I’d need to be convinced.

Clusterfrack
05-01-2020, 02:03 PM
...ZT markets their knives as hard use but my experience with them has been poor. Their lockup is sketchy at best. Yes you may have one that locks up good but for a $200+ knife their very inconsistent. I had one knife (brand new) that would close with a spine whack to the palm of my hand. It took 3 trips to ZT to get "fixed" and each time it returned with the same issues. They claimed there was nothing wrong with it and always blamed it on too much oil on the tang. It literally would fold just striking into the soft flesh of my palm. I'm not the only one. There are lots of videos on YouTube about the issues as well as threads over on blade forums.

Second ZT knives are just awful at cutting. They have huge chunky blades and are not ground thin. Don't fall into thinking you need a prybar as a knife for it to be hard use. There's many factors that go into that. Like quality heat treat (which ZT is not known for), locking mechanism, and the grind of the knife.
...If you're wanting the hard use tactical folders also check out Emerson. Good American owned and operated company with knives carried by police and military all over the world.


It's interesting how different people's experiences with knife brands can be--kind of like guns.

I like Emerson knives, and the Wave is truly one of the best inventions in folding knives. I even gave an Emerson to my younger daughter for a graduation present. But, in comparison to ZT and some of the other manufacturers, our Emersons are very rough. Their liner locks rely on a very thin lock bar, and the liner itself is roughly cut and has ugly unfinished edges.

My two ZT 0620s are the only ZTs I own, mainly because almost none of their designs offer what I want. But, the 0620 is the best implementation of the Emerson Wave I have seen. The frame lock has a replaceable hardened steel insert. Everything about it is well machined. As far as heat treating, mine has the best edge retention of any knife I own. There was some internet discussion about ZT and Elmax steel, and all I can say is my experience doesn't support the critics.

If I recommend a knife to someone, it's usually a Spyderco. But I rarely carry any of mine because their finger grooves make them hard to use in a reverse grip (except for the P'kal which is not a hard use knife at all).

BWT
05-01-2020, 02:26 PM
I like the Manix 2 from Spyderco. I’d just want to hold one before hand.

Also, I had a great experience with ZT - I wasn’t crazy about the knife and beat up on it a lot. Especially when I first obtained it, because I was thinking of maybe going a different direction.

I ended up keeping it and eventually begrudgingly growing to admire it.

I wanted to hate the knife, but ended up liking it pretty well.

Back when I bought my ZT 0350 there were no stores in the area that carried them. Now there’s Cabela’s and PSA’s. I’ll have to check them out.

Also, I completely respect knife collector and connoisseur’s it’s just I’m more into guns and other things. I totally see the application and was very strongly leaning towards a Micro Tech UTX if I passed the CCNP R&S before the exam converted to the Enterprise. I didn’t and then I lost my knife. Thus, I don’t want to rely solely on an OTF. Also, I’d really want S30V steel or better.

I liked spyderco’s, but I’d want a metal liner for a hard use knife. That Manix 2 with Full Flat Grind made of S30V steel...

I may need to go handle one.

ETA: I will have to wait until the ‘Rona subsides before I go buy and/or handle them.

But, we shall see!

Keep the suggestions coming. I enjoy it.

blues
05-01-2020, 04:55 PM
You could order the Manix 2 from amazon and have it in a couple of days. If it is found wanting, you can return it without risk at no cost.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002ECY7XI/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1

Duelist
05-01-2020, 08:03 PM
You could order the Manix 2 from amazon and have it in a couple of days. If it is found wanting, you can return it without risk at no cost.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002ECY7XI/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1

I really enjoy my Manix 2. Mine’s a sprint in CPM M4, which is an interesting and good cutting steel, but I think I might be happier with it as an EDC blade if it were more corrosion resistant, like every S30v and S35v blade I’ve had.

53195

blues
05-01-2020, 08:09 PM
I really enjoy my Manix 2. Mine’s a sprint in CPM M4, which is an interesting and good cutting steel, but I think I might be happier with it as an EDC blade if it were more corrosion resistant, like every S30v and S35v blade I’ve had.



I've got a PM2 and Shaman in M4. I like the aggressive performance of M4. In a stainless, I think S90V gives similar aggression due to the high carbide content. (Not as tough as the tool steel, though.)

Tensaw
05-01-2020, 08:46 PM
I love my old school Manix. Enough that I bought my daughter a Manix 2 for her first real knife.

fly out
05-01-2020, 09:05 PM
I'm liking the look of the Manix 2 with the S30V blade with black coating. I have a few Spydercos but none with the coated blades. Any reason to stay away from them?

blues
05-01-2020, 09:12 PM
I'm liking the look of the Manix 2 with the S30V blade with black coating. I have a few Spydercos but none with the coated blades. Any reason to stay away from them?

Some folks have said that corrosion can travel under the coating, (assuming one doesn't maintain their knives). Others say that it helps absorb mineral oil to keep the blades protected.

I don't mind coated blades. I have one Spydie, a few old Benchmades with coated blades.

fly out
05-01-2020, 09:19 PM
Some folks have said that corrosion can travel under the coating, (assuming one doesn't maintain their knives). Others say that it helps absorb mineral oil to keep the blades protected.

I don't mind coated blades. I have one Spydie, a few old Benchmades with coated blades.

I'm going to give one a try.

JCS
05-02-2020, 03:54 PM
I am probably at about $100-150. I could go above that if it really merited it. But, I’d need to be convinced.

Check out the bench made bug out. It's going to be on the other extreme from a ZT0350. Super lightweight and slicey. It's like the J frame of folding knives. Super light weight and realistically can handle most any cutting task.

But along the lines of what you're looking for the Emerson waved PM2 is about to drop. Retail is $16053264

JCS
05-02-2020, 04:03 PM
I will only take issue with your making the statement on a very broad basis...and though I've heard and read of issues, I'm not sure what percentage they represent.

That said, I only have three ZTs. An 0550 and 0551, as well as a 0456. All of them are robust and without issues. They aren't the same as my Spydercos, Benchmades, or my many other custom and production knives, but there is a place for them in the arsenal.

I completely understand your point of view but I'm not entirely prepared to throw them under the bus.

I agree with you that I probably shouldn't make the broad sweeping claims based off my experience. I fully admit I've only owned 3 of them. I think my biggest issue was that my knife was handled personally by the production floor manager for ZT and was returned to me unsafe as what was essentially a slip joint disguised as a frame lock. They told me the knife met all their quality standards.

So granted my experience was pretty bad with them. I honestly love their designs. Their collabs with Emerson and hinderer are some of my fave designs in terms of looks.

JCS
05-02-2020, 04:08 PM
It's interesting how different people's experiences with knife brands can be--kind of like guns.

I like Emerson knives, and the Wave is truly one of the best inventions in folding knives. I even gave an Emerson to my younger daughter for a graduation present. But, in comparison to ZT and some of the other manufacturers, our Emersons are very rough. Their liner locks rely on a very thin lock bar, and the liner itself is roughly cut and has ugly unfinished edges.

My two ZT 0620s are the only ZTs I own, mainly because almost none of their designs offer what I want. But, the 0620 is the best implementation of the Emerson Wave I have seen. The frame lock has a replaceable hardened steel insert. Everything about it is well machined. As far as heat treating, mine has the best edge retention of any knife I own. There was some internet discussion about ZT and Elmax steel, and all I can say is my experience doesn't support the critics.

If I recommend a knife to someone, it's usually a Spyderco. But I rarely carry any of mine because their finger grooves make them hard to use in a reverse grip (except for the P'kal which is not a hard use knife at all).

You are correct. It is crazy how peoples experiences can be so different. I have the experience with Benchmade. I've read how crappy their QC is and I picked up a bugout and I was shocked at how rock solid it was for such a lightweight knife.

I've never owned any Emersons and have read that about them. It's been said a lot that ZT did with the 0620 what Emerson should've done.

It's blasphemous in the knife community but I am not a fan of the pm2. It has a few hot spots and sharp corners and is uncomfortable for me when cutting something like cardboard for an extended period of time. But it's so classic that it should be tried out and recommended to anyone who doesn't have one.

blues
05-02-2020, 04:21 PM
I agree with you that I probably shouldn't make the broad sweeping claims based off my experience. I fully admit I've only owned 3 of them. I think my biggest issue was that my knife was handled personally by the production floor manager for ZT and was returned to me unsafe as what was essentially a slip joint disguised as a frame lock. They told me the knife met all their quality standards.

So granted my experience was pretty bad with them. I honestly love their designs. Their collabs with Emerson and hinderer are some of my fave designs in terms of looks.

And I agree with you completely that they dropped the ball big time. There's no excuse for returning a knife which fails to perform as intended. Would definitely give me pause going forward.

Navin Johnson
05-02-2020, 06:54 PM
If you buy a Manix try to find one with skeletonized liners for weight savings or a FRCP model if "plastic" doesn't gag you.

Spyderco's generally have contured handles so some grips can be less comfortable. In a normal grip they are usually better than most.

A PM2 or Stretch or Endella are good Spyderco choices also. If you think a knife is a screw driver or prying tool Spyderco is not for you.

Benchmade: it is hard to beat a Griptillian unless you want to spend more.

Avoid a "waved" knife unless you get to play with one....there is nothing worse than a half opened knife....(that is going to butt hurt a few)

ZT seem expensive and heavy and in general I don't like the blade shapes or thicknesses.

The Emersons I have seen or played with were pieces of shit unless they have improved quality in the last 3 or so years. Especially for the bucks. I would trust Spyderco's budget knives more.

If you like the ZT you had and it did everything you wanted it might be the obvious answer.

Otherwise you might become one of those guys who keeps buying knives looking for the perfect one. And that gets spendy. I know a guy with that problem.....

Clusterfrack
05-02-2020, 07:50 PM
If you buy a Manix try to find one with skeletonized liners for weight savings or a FRCP model if "plastic" doesn't gag you.

Spyderco's generally have contured handles so some grips can be less comfortable. In a normal grip they are usually better than most.


Yeah, I really wish they would make more knives with mostly symmetric grips.

For some reason, I just don't like knives that are too light. I like being able to feel the weight of the knife in my pocket, and in my hand.



Benchmade: it is hard to beat a Griptillian unless you want to spend more.

Avoid a "waved" knife unless you get to play with one....there is nothing worse than a half opened knife....(that is going to butt hurt a few)

I like that BM is making the Grip with some blade and handle choices. I have two Benchmade HK Snody knives that are IMO what the Griptilian should have been.

And no butthurt here about wave openers. They aren't for everyone. It takes practice and the right knife/pants combination. I've used waved trainers in the dojo and in classes with great success, but I've put in a lot of effort. I would say that a partially open knife isn't as bad as getting your ass kicked while you're fumbling with your conventional folder... I've fixed a partially open knife a few times, using my training partner as a surface :-)


ZT seem expensive and heavy and in general I don't like the blade shapes or thicknesses.

Totally agree. I like the weight, but not many of their designs. There's a trend to make their knives look like they would be carried by Klingons on Star Trek, and I'm not into it.



The Emersons I have seen or played with were pieces of shit unless they have improved quality in the last 3 or so years. Especially for the bucks. I would trust Spyderco's budget knives more.


Emerson: they are expensive for what you get, but his designs are excellent and somewhat unique (e.g CQC 7, Roadhouse, SARK). I haven't experienced any poor quality knives from Emerson (but that's only a sample of 3). If buying a US made knife is important, we expect this will cost extra relative to a Chinese knife. I do not regret buying my Emersons.

Navin Johnson
05-03-2020, 09:33 AM
Not to derail but.... a chisel ground tanto in 154cm for $200+ with a thin liner lock is not a good value made in Merica or not (Emerson).

A Grip or Manix is far less money with better steel with a blade shape that is actually useful...and also made in Merica.

blues
05-03-2020, 09:59 AM
Not to derail but.... a chisel ground tanto in 154cm for $200+ with a thin liner lock is not a good value made in Merica or not (Emerson).

A Grip or Manix is far less money with better steel with a blade shape that is actually useful...and also made in Merica.

I'm pretty much with your take but tastes, needs and desires vary. That said, I'm not a martial artist with the blade, though I've been on the wrong side of a blade wielded by someone with bad intent (with less than life threatening consequences).

I won't lecture anyone about their tastes or wants. I'm willing to provide my opinion upon request, however.

Clusterfrack
05-03-2020, 10:06 AM
Not to derail but.... a chisel ground tanto in 154cm for $200+ with a thin liner lock is not a good value made in Merica or not (Emerson).

A Grip or Manix is far less money with better steel with a blade shape that is actually useful...and also made in Merica.

My Emerson CQC-7F in S35 works better for my needs than a Manix or a Griptilian. The liner may be thin, but it's tight and works really well. I still prefer the ZT0620 Emerson, but the CQC-7 has better grip ergonomics.

Similarly, my younger daughter's mini-Roadhouse has served her well.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200503/59d4da5cca2becea76f0355411e1d224.jpg

TOTS
08-09-2020, 09:38 AM
Emerson: they are expensive for what you get, but his designs are excellent and somewhat unique (e.g CQC 7, Roadhouse, SARK). I haven't experienced any poor quality knives from Emerson (but that's only a sample of 3). If buying a US made knife is important, we expect this will cost extra relative to a Chinese knife. I do not regret buying my Emersons.

I’m with you on alot of ZT designs; seems like the current trend of many makers is to make what looks like space knives. I’m with you on the robustness of Emersons. And that you pay for the cache of a craftsman. But you lose me when I actually try to use one of his knives. I could even get past the chisel if it wasn’t on the wrong side for a right-hand user. The edge design just won’t push cut; blade just rides up on the chiseled edge rather than cuts in. Reading an article, it seems that the only reason for this is it photographed better. He is finally offering modern steels so that’s good. But what I think most can’t get over is the fit and finish of his knives. You have to admit that there’s a difference when compared to ZT, Benchmade, Spyderco, and even more budget friendly brands like Steelwill, Kiser, shoot, even Kershaw sometimes. But that’s part of his style. It’s just polarizing; people either love his knives or hates them.

My only issue is the chisel on the wrong (for me) side and the customer service. I have a mini-commander that had a clip screw back out (not even often carried) enough to strip the threads of the liner out. I contacted customer support and they gave me a harder time than any other company I’ve dealt with. They insinuated I did it purposely, then I should have caught it sooner, then it was just wear, and finally send it in and I cover shipping both ways. When I got it back, they didn’t replace anything other than a screw. From what I can tell, they took all my original parts and redrilled and tapped the liner for a larger screw. Then put it the old parts back together. I don’t know if they touched up the edge even. I just wasn’t impressed with the repair.

Say what you want about Benchmade, but that’s about the opposite of the Livesharp program.

BWT
12-14-2020, 11:22 PM
Just got back from CA for a week of in-law family time and wedding stuff.

Wife promised me a gift for something to make it up to me.

Microtech UTX-85 231-10 in M390.

https://houseofblades.com/shop/microtech-s-e-stonewash-231-10-black/

I love this knife. She said she owed me a replacement ZT0350.

I married up.

I like this knife too! Should’ve done it a long time ago.

JHC
12-15-2020, 06:56 AM
I was convinced my 350 was the greatest every day knife forevah until I snatched up a Benchmade Barrage with a combo blade last year and I feel bad for the 350 but the Barrage is about all I carry since.