Recommendations: fixed blade or folder for EDC?

[javemtr]

I'm looking for all kinds of input from the knowledgeable knife folks here regarding their EDC knife preferences: small fixed blade or folder.
I'm currently undecided what my preferred carry knife should be. I have way more experience carrying various types of folders. But both from a utility and defensive aspect, a fixed blade makes more sense: locking mechanism can't ever fail on a fixed blade and it is faster to draw. I'm still struggling with the concept of frequent drawing/resheathing when using the fixed blade as a utility blade. Comfort is also an issue, a folder in my pocket gets in the way less than a small fixed blade carried IWB, at least in my IWB carry experience so far.
Specific example: carrying a Spyderco Manix 2 or a Bawidamann Muninn?
I'd be happy to hear all your experiences/inputs or any suitable advice.

[RJ]

Been carrying a small Spyderco Dragonfly 2 since it was suggested by a few folks here. I’m extremely happy with it.

https://www.spyderco.com/catalog/details/C28OR2/Dragonfly-2-FRN-Orange/818

53183

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https://media1.tenor.com/images/067bb2e4df4aaa6d8c702eb9eabb0964/tenor.gif

I alternate between a Special Circumstances Maleficus when I'm not CCWing and a Ban Tang Clinch Pick when I am for a self-defense SFB, carried in the typical prescribed fashion, at ~1100 canted tip up, handle down toward the midline. However, it is my CRK Large Sebenza 21 that I use the most, as it is carried specifically for utility use (right pocket with the clip), and to be used for self-defense only in extreme circumstances.

[Guerrero]

I'm looking for all kinds of input from the knowledgeable knife folks here regarding their EDC knife preferences: small fixed blade or folder.
I'm currently undecided what my preferred carry knife should be. I have way more experience carrying various types of folders. But both from a utility and defensive aspect, a fixed blade makes more sense: locking mechanism can't ever fail on a fixed blade and it is faster to draw. I'm still struggling with the concept of frequent drawing/resheathing when using the fixed blade as a utility blade. Comfort is also an issue, a folder in my pocket gets in the way less than a small fixed blade carried IWB, at least in my IWB carry experience so far.
Specific example: carrying a Spyderco Manix 2 or a Bawidamann Muninn?
I'd be happy to hear all your experiences/inputs or any suitable advice.

First: check your local laws.

Second: check your local laws.

Third: get both. I typically carry a Spyderco Dragonfly 2 folder for EDC tasks (it cuts much bigger than it's size and it's small enough not to evoke shock/fear), and I carry a Shivworks Clinch Pick for defensive uses.

[LJP]

I have had the same struggle you describe trying to carry a fixed blade IWB. For the past few months, I’ve been carrying a Northman blade from AmTac blades. Bill Rapier designed it to replace the pocket knife he carried strong side. The sheath seats it deeply in the pocket so that to casual inspection, it looks like a clipped folding knife. The sheath also has a built in ferro rod for fire starting ability and a Velcro pocket on the back for holding tinder, money, etc. I really like it so far.

But as a previous poster said, check your local laws!

[javemtr]

Thanks all for your input!
I specifically did not mention local laws because I didn't want to skew the debate from the very beginning. Of course you are all correct, local laws will have a large impact on my final decision.
In Germany, knife laws are actually very peculiar: any one-handed opening locking folder is illegal to carry, while fixed blades with blade lengths below approx. 5" are legal to carry. So all the standard modern folding knives with thumb studs or Spydercos (due to the opening hole) or are out of the question. One-handed opening non-locking is allowed, two-handed opening locking as well.
So I guess my best bet will be a small fixed blade for more special uses in combination with a slipjoint folder for utility tasks. Any other/better ideas?

[JodyH]

What tasks do you need a knife for?
If you're using a knife constantly, like receiving in a warehouse then a small fixed blade is the way to go.
If you slice an apple for lunch and maybe open the mail in the evening then a folder would be better.
Mission drives the equipment.

[That Guy]

But both from a utility and defensive aspect, a fixed blade makes more sense: locking mechanism can't ever fail on a fixed blade and it is faster to draw. I'm still struggling with the concept of frequent drawing/resheathing when using the fixed blade as a utility blade. Comfort is also an issue, a folder in my pocket gets in the way less than a small fixed blade carried IWB, at least in my IWB carry experience so far.

I definitely agree with you on the first point - a knife that isn't pre-broken is more difficult to break than one that folds in half by design. There is also less to go wrong with deployment of a fixed blade - a folder may not, for whatever reason, always unfold quite all the way. Especially if one-hand opening locking folders are out due to legal weirdness, that would really restrict the usefulness of a folding knife.

As for frequent re-sheathing, speed of access, and comfort, those would depend on the knife, the sheath and the method of carry. Speaking strictly from a utilitarian point of view, a small fixed blade knife carried in a pocket with the sheath dummy corded to either your pocket or belt might make fixed blade carry nearly as comfortable as folder carry. It would also make it easy to re-sheath - although it would be strictly a two-handed affair. In-fight access to the knife would be very iffy though. Regarding IWB, a dummy cord method where you draw both the sheath and knife from your waist band until the dummy cord snags the sheath away might also make re-sheathing easier - if you can make the knife and sheath stay put during carry. With this method also, re-sheathing will require the use of both hands.

[Navin Johnson]

I think you nailed it....SAK or Spyderco urban (slip joint, non locking, one handed, steel options) for "tasks"......and a small fixed with a great handle (handle is more important than blade) for "events".

[blues]

I think you nailed it....SAK or Spyderco urban (slip joint, non locking, one handed, steel options) for "tasks"......and a small fixed with a great handle (handle is more important than blade) for "events".

The "Urban" was what I was going to recommend. Great knife, especially in K390 steel if available.

[Rex G]

The small EDC-type fixed blade, that I have always liked, since its introduction, is the original Spyderco Ronin. Knowing that design collaborations are limited-run, I bought several. I believe Spyderco produced a second generation Ronin, but did not try to buy any of them.

Another Spyderco fixed-blade that I like is the Temperance. The Temperance II looks like it has a better handle, but I have not been able to verify this, by actually seeing or handling one.

[blues]

A pocket fixed blade or neck knife is a great EDC tool. I wear a custom neck knife daily. Small, strong and sharp. There are many options in this arena though I have no clue on availability in Germany, or cost.

CRKT, ESEE, Emerson, and many other companies market such. Of course a small fixed blade IWB also works as well.

[Clusterfrack]

Around here in the Portland area, some of the hipster guys are carrying fairly large fixed blade knives. These have to be hipster knives though, with wood handles and leather woodsman-style sheaths. To carry one of these without scaring people, you need a big hipster beard or waxed mustache and skinny jeans.

[Guerrero]

A pocket fixed blade or neck knife is a great EDC tool. I wear a custom neck knife daily. Small, strong and sharp. There are many options in this arena though I have no clue on availability in Germany, or cost.

CRKT, ESEE, Emerson, and many other companies market such. Of course a small fixed blade IWB also works as well.

I was just going to recommend an ESEE Candiru or Izula. Great minds and all that...

[javemtr]

All great ideas! In deciding between a small pocket fixed blade or a slipjoint for utility, I'll try the small pocket fixed blade first. I ordered a Hinderer LP-1 Wharncliffe to try out:
https://www.knifeart.com/rhk-lp1-wharn.html
Reminds me of my beloved Yojimbo 2.

[mrozowjj]

I've been looking for a fixed blade I can carry IWB because I carry too much stuff in my pocket already (wallet, phone, flashlight, pepper spray and keys)

My preferred folding knife at the moment is the Spyderco Para 3 Lightweight or the Benchmade Bugout/Bailout so when I was looking at fixed blade knives in trying to avoid anything that's too heavy.

The ESEE Candiru was too small; I find the Izula II too large and heavy for my tastes. I considered the regular Izula but without scales I don't think it's comfortable and with scales it's almost 4oz which doesn't sound that heavy but it's heavier than I need for an EDC knife.

Right now I have a Lionsteel M1 G-10 handle model on the way as it seems to be about the perfect size, it weighs 2.6oz and it uses M390 which is a great steel.
https://www.lionsteel.it/n/en/product/1808/m1_g10

The downside is it's $140-160 depending on whether you shop.

The other knife I've been looking at is the Ferrum Forge Lackey which is about half an inch shorter and 0.3oz lighter. It uses D2 steel which isn't as good but it's still a great steel and that makes it cheaper at $60 which is right in that sweet spot of being something I don't mind abusing. The burn is they've been sold out everywhere for months so I can't even get my hands on one which is why I've ordered the Lionsteel.
http://www.ferrumforge.com/store/p238/Lackey_Fixed_Blade_-_Black.html

[PNWTO]

I’m really, really happy with an AmTac Northman and a SAK.

[javemtr]

... Lionsteel M1 G-10 handle model ... Ferrum Forge Lackey

Yes, the Ferrum Forge Lackey looks like an excellent knife. Shape and size seem perfect. I've had my eye on one for a while, but as you said, D2 steel is a bit of a letdown, even if the price is good. According to the Ferrum Forge website, they are releasing more in May.
I had one of the Lionsteel M1 models a while back. I found it too small, I couldn't get a good grip on the handle and the G-10 was not grippy in any way, so I sold it.

[Joe in PNG]

I've carried a CRKT Obake (https://www.amazon.com/CRKT-Obake-Skoshi-EDC-Knife/dp/B01B2CP5OU/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2ZQV40YAQV368&dchild=1&keywords=crkt+obake&qid=1588743715&sprefix=crkt+o%2Caps%2C399&sr=8-2) centerline for a while now. I usually stick it inside my left center belt loop, and wrap the lanyard around and secure it with a drawstring clip.

Lately, I've moved on to a SPEW (https://www.amazon.com/CRKT-Fixed-Blade-Knife-Sheath/dp/B006SK0SP8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1R0BEORC1S96K&dchild=1&keywords=crkt+spew&qid=1588743920&sprefix=crkt+sp%2Caps%2C406&sr=8-1) in pretty much the same spot, mounted with the belt clip and a bit of elastic cord.

[mrozowjj]

Yes, the Ferrum Forge Lackey looks like an excellent knife. Shape and size seem perfect. I've had my eye on one for a while, but as you said, D2 steel is a bit of a letdown, even if the price is good. According to the Ferrum Forge website, they are releasing more in May.
I had one of the Lionsteel M1 models a while back. I found it too small, I couldn't get a good grip on the handle and the G-10 was not grippy in any way, so I sold it.

Yeah Ferrum Forge is saying mid may for the Lackey. I got in their email list just so I don't miss it. The sheath that comes with it sucks so I'm intending to send it off to Armatus Carry to have them make a sheath for it. And yeah D2 isn't stellar but it's been around a long time and it does the job. It's way better than any of the cheap steels and it certainly does the job.

I'm curious what you mean when you say the Lionsteel M1 is too small though as it's actually slightly longer than the Lackey. Do you mean in diameter/width?

[javemtr]

I'm curious what you mean when you say the Lionsteel M1 is too small though as it's actually slightly longer than the Lackey. Do you mean in diameter/width?
It wasn't so much the size of the knife, but rather the handle did not feel secure. It felt like my hand could slide forward towards the cutting edge unless really clinching down on the grip. I don't know why, maybe it was a weird combination of grip thickness, roundness, and height that didn't work for my hands?

[Joe S]

I've been looking for a fixed blade I can carry IWB because I carry too much stuff in my pocket already (wallet, phone, flashlight, pepper spray and keys)

My preferred folding knife at the moment is the Spyderco Para 3 Lightweight or the Benchmade Bugout/Bailout so when I was looking at fixed blade knives in trying to avoid anything that's too heavy.

The ESEE Candiru was too small; I find the Izula II too large and heavy for my tastes. I considered the regular Izula but without scales I don't think it's comfortable and with scales it's almost 4oz which doesn't sound that heavy but it's heavier than I need for an EDC knife.

Right now I have a Lionsteel M1 G-10 handle model on the way as it seems to be about the perfect size, it weighs 2.6oz and it uses M390 which is a great steel.
https://www.lionsteel.it/n/en/product/1808/m1_g10

The downside is it's $140-160 depending on whether you shop.

The other knife I've been looking at is the Ferrum Forge Lackey which is about half an inch shorter and 0.3oz lighter. It uses D2 steel which isn't as good but it's still a great steel and that makes it cheaper at $60 which is right in that sweet spot of being something I don't mind abusing. The burn is they've been sold out everywhere for months so I can't even get my hands on one which is why I've ordered the Lionsteel.
http://www.ferrumforge.com/store/p238/Lackey_Fixed_Blade_-_Black.html

I wonder if they include the weight of the sheath in that.

I would say D2 is a great steel properly heat treated.

I wouldn't be able to tell a 0.3oz difference something in my hand, let alone in my belt.

Spyderco Street Beat (https://www.amazon.com/Spyderco-Street-Bowie-PlainEdge-FB04PBB/dp/B00BQ0SE2O/ref=sr_1_2?crid=S2MJYELT2V3N&dchild=1&keywords=spyderco+street+beat&qid=1588775972&sprefix=spyderco+sure%2Caps%2C168&sr=8-2) or Enuff (https://www.amazon.com/Spyderco-Enuff-Shape-Plain-Knife/dp/B00AHF6L9W/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=1GJ9KJVK7Y6L4&dchild=1&keywords=spyderco+enuff&qid=1588775998&sprefix=spyderco+end%2Caps%2C170&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExN1YwRVVQSDlXVjUxJ mVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwODI5ODE1MlpRUzRJMlZHMlE5OSZlbmN yeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMDc5NzE1Mk5FNk9FMUU2OUQzVyZ3aWRnZ XROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05 vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=)
Benchmade Altitude (https://www.amazon.com/Benchmade-Altitude-Drop-Point-Coated-Finish/dp/B078NBTPW6/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1KD69J3FYAAEX&dchild=1&keywords=benchmade+altitude&qid=1588776025&sprefix=bench+made+at%2Caps%2C258&sr=8-1) or Follow-Up (https://www.amazon.com/Benchmade-Follow-Up-101-Knife-Drop-Point/dp/B078NF9N6Q/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2CGP3NG04VHLO&dchild=1&keywords=benchmade+follow+up&qid=1588776045&sprefix=benchmade+fol%2Caps%2C181&sr=8-1) or Hidden Canyon (https://www.amazon.com/Benchmade-Hidden-15016-2-Hunting-Drop-Point/dp/B00I90HWYU/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1XIH0GP2X6UUT&dchild=1&keywords=benchmade+hidden+canyon&qid=1588776067&sprefix=benchmade+hi%2Caps%2C145&sr=8-1)
Boker BugOut or Piranha

With a fixed blade, the sheath is a very important consideration.

[BillSWPA]

I have both fixed blades and folders, and find that the vast majority of time, I prefer a folder.

There are about 8-10 states that I have some likelihood of visiting in a given year. Fixed blades are of questionable legality or illegal in most of them, as well as in every single one of them in which I cannot legally carry a gun. Folders of appropriate length are legal in every single one.

When I am carrying a gun, finding a place for a primary gun, spare ammo, light, phone, and possibly a backup gun tends to take priority over finding a place for a fixed blade, but a folder clipped to the top of a pocket is no problem.

Regarding locks, I have not had good experience with liner locks. I prefer rocker bar locks, and have been particularly impressed with Cold Steel's Tri-Ad lock. I also like Spyderco's ball bearing lock.

I am also a big fan of pocket opening devices such as the Wave and its derivatives. Spyderco waves are big and rounded enough to be the most reliable and gentlest on clothing, followed by Cold Steel's thumb plate, and with the original designs being least preferred.

For specific folders, I have tried many from multiple manufacturers, and have become a fan of two companies: Cold Steel and Spyderco. My favorite carry folders are Cold Steel Storm Cloud (currently discontinued and available from dealers at good prices), Cold Steel Recon 1, Spyderco Waved Delica, Spyderco Waved Endura, Spyderco Dodo (for places with a < 2.5" blade length limit), and Spyderco Pacific Salt (for swimming or exercise). As I type this, I have two Storm Clouds clipped in my pockets. I would also give serious consideration to a Cold Steel American Lawman or AD10, but do not yet own either. I also do not yet own a Spyderco P'Kal, but this knife has many fans among those who train in reverse grip edge in methods.

For fixed blades, my current favorites are SouthNarc's Clinch Pick (Chinese version), Mickey Yurco's Palm Knife/Push Dagger (with an egg-shaped handle like the former Cold Steel Desperado but with a more practical blade), and Bud Nealy's Pesh Kabz.

Finding good fixed blade knives is easy, but finding good carry systems is more challenging. Multiple sheath/holster makers, including Dark Star, make aftermarket sheaths for Clinch Picks. Mickey Yurco is capable of being creative with Kydex after discussing customer needs. The multi-carry sheath was the specific reason I bought the Pesh-kabz. The Raven Concealment Pocket Shield, which was invented by Chris Fry, is a very useful tool for carrying a fixed blade in a pocket.

While I have sometimes carried a neck knife, I have not carried one in a few years. It is often easy to conceal them, but speed of access is questionable. I use a breakable ball chain with about a 6"-7" length of hollowed paracord placed over the chain, with the sheath centered on the covered portion of the chain, to reduce noise.

When reviewing the statutes of a given jurisdiction, check for:

1) Specific types of knives prohiited.

2) Blade length requirements.

3) Prohibitions against carrying things that serve no purpose other than to cause injury, and other catchall clauses. Most knife prosecutions in Pennsylvania are under such a provision in the statutes.

4) Local ordinances as well as state law.

5) Whether concealment is part of the offense that must be proven.

6) Caselaw interpreting the prohibitions under circumstances in which the knife was found during a traffic stop or other circumstances where the knife was not used as a weapon and the defendant was not otherwise doing something really bad. This can really shed some light on how the statutes will be interpreted, and many knives that might appear legal from a review of the statutes will be shown to be illegal in the caselaw. NY, OH, and VA are particularly good examples of this problem. At the same time, the caselaw may provide some nice safe harbors that are not apparent from the statutes, with MD being a good example.

[DMCutter]

I carry a Spyderco Yojimbo in my right front utility pocket and a Tops Ranger Shorty OWB on my left hip. The Tops is double edged and is primarily for work, e.g. probing rotted wood, but is plenty pointy and sharp enough for self defense if I needed to buy some time to get my gun on the strong side. The Yojimbo is a much more effective defensive blade but not as fast into action. I have a couple Spyderco Snody/Janich Ronins but the blade is too thin for rough utility use and those can't be replaced.

[mrozowjj]

I wonder if they include the weight of the sheath in that.

I would say D2 is a great steel properly heat treated.

I wouldn't be able to tell a 0.3oz difference something in my hand, let alone in my belt.

Spyderco Street Beat (https://www.amazon.com/Spyderco-Street-Bowie-PlainEdge-FB04PBB/dp/B00BQ0SE2O/ref=sr_1_2?crid=S2MJYELT2V3N&dchild=1&keywords=spyderco+street+beat&qid=1588775972&sprefix=spyderco+sure%2Caps%2C168&sr=8-2) or Enuff (https://www.amazon.com/Spyderco-Enuff-Shape-Plain-Knife/dp/B00AHF6L9W/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=1GJ9KJVK7Y6L4&dchild=1&keywords=spyderco+enuff&qid=1588775998&sprefix=spyderco+end%2Caps%2C170&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExN1YwRVVQSDlXVjUxJ mVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwODI5ODE1MlpRUzRJMlZHMlE5OSZlbmN yeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMDc5NzE1Mk5FNk9FMUU2OUQzVyZ3aWRnZ XROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05 vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=)
Benchmade Altitude (https://www.amazon.com/Benchmade-Altitude-Drop-Point-Coated-Finish/dp/B078NBTPW6/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1KD69J3FYAAEX&dchild=1&keywords=benchmade+altitude&qid=1588776025&sprefix=bench+made+at%2Caps%2C258&sr=8-1) or Follow-Up (https://www.amazon.com/Benchmade-Follow-Up-101-Knife-Drop-Point/dp/B078NF9N6Q/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2CGP3NG04VHLO&dchild=1&keywords=benchmade+follow+up&qid=1588776045&sprefix=benchmade+fol%2Caps%2C181&sr=8-1) or Hidden Canyon (https://www.amazon.com/Benchmade-Hidden-15016-2-Hunting-Drop-Point/dp/B00I90HWYU/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1XIH0GP2X6UUT&dchild=1&keywords=benchmade+hidden+canyon&qid=1588776067&sprefix=benchmade+hi%2Caps%2C145&sr=8-1)
Boker BugOut or Piranha

With a fixed blade, the sheath is a very important consideration.

D2 is fine; it does the job it holds an edge. There's just also better steels out now with modern metallurgy. That said for $60 I'll grab one and as long as the shape and size are right I'll be more than happy to use it forever.

[javemtr]

Cute blade
53614

[RevolverRob]

I agree that having one (five) of each is ideal.

I carry a fixed blade (Clinch Pick) every day.

AND

I carry a folder every day - the folder changes frequently today it is a Spyderco Native.

__

For general tasks I use the folder. Those tasks are everything from cutting my sandwich at lunch to slicing cardboard, etc. I view the folder as a tertiary to quarternary defensive tool. I often carry and use inconspicuous looking knives, such as Swiss Army Knives, Opinels, small lock back folders - typically more "Gentlemanly" knives. I do this, because a nice knife, like a nice pen, or a nice briefcase, is a sign of status. People of status don't stab other people, right? Right. So, you look less threatening to those who may view askance a knife otherwise.
__

My fixed blade stays concealed. It's not a tool for general use, it's a tool for a very specific set of uses, though I do not carry it with intent to harm, I carry it as a tool to save myself should I need to.

___

That said, any sharpened hunk of steel can be used as a defensive tool with proper application. I would look for a knife that fulfills your utility and concealment needs first then think about potential martial uses second. Many of the smaller fixed blades like the AG Russell Woodswalker, the Bark River Knives - City Knife, Canadian Special, or EDC - or the ESEE Izula would make fine utility knives.

[mrozowjj]

It wasn't so much the size of the knife, but rather the handle did not feel secure. It felt like my hand could slide forward towards the cutting edge unless really clinching down on the grip. I don't know why, maybe it was a weird combination of grip thickness, roundness, and height that didn't work for my hands?

I just got mine in the mail and I see what you mean so I think I'll be returning it. It seems to fit my hand well but it somehow feels both too big and also too small all at once. There's no jimping on the spine of the knife which is a bummer and the G-10 doesn't feel grippy. Also the edge from the factory is... not good which I guess is a small thing because I can sharpen it myself but man for $150 you think they could put some effort into it.

I might try a Tops Mini Scandi 2.5 just because why not at this point.

[javemtr]

I just got mine in the mail and I see what you mean so I think I'll be returning it. It seems to fit my hand well but it somehow feels both too big and also too small all at once. There's no jimping on the spine of the knife which is a bummer and the G-10 doesn't feel grippy. Also the edge from the factory is... not good which I guess is a small thing because I can sharpen it myself but man for $150 you think they could put some effort into it.
I might try a Tops Mini Scandi 2.5 just because why not at this point.
The grip phenomenon on the M1 is very interesting. I'm glad to see that I am not the outlier.
I recommend you bite the bullet now and just get a Bawidamann Muninn. Painfully expensive, but it truly is that good! Definitely no grip problems with those handles!