Defensive Folding Knives Under 2.5"

[Chance]

New workplace is a "weapons free" zone, with an explicit carve out made for folding knives with blades at or under 2.5 inches long. A knife visibly clipped to a pocket - while officially allowed - might raise eyebrows, so something that can be concealed along the waistline is preferable.

Not concerned about price if it'll last. Ideas?

[BillSWPA]

New workplace is a "weapons free" zone, with an explicit carve out made for folding knives with blades at or under 2.5 inches long. A knife visibly clipped to a pocket - while officially allowed - might raise eyebrows, so something that can be concealed along the waistline is preferable.

Not concerned about price if it'll last. Ideas?

The Spyderco Dodo was designed exactly for this purpose. Unfortunately it is no longer a regular production knife, but is occasionally made in limited runs.

The blade is 2.06 inches long. The handle is designed to provide a much better grip than most knives with a blade this small. The ball bearing lock is excellent. The pocket clip is discreet, but may need to be bent to optimize tension (all of mine have had to e loosened).

Th linked example is more expensive than most with carbon fiber handles.

https://www.bladehq.com/item--Spyderco-Dodo-Knife-Carbon-Fiber--12841

[Clusterfrack]

Here are some options:

https://www.knifecenter.com/item/SP230GPCWBK/spyderco-lil-native-compression-lock-folding-knife-cpm-cruwear-black-plain-blade-smooth-black-g10-handles-knifecenter-exclusive

https://www.bladehq.com/item--CIVIVI-Ostap-Hel-Ki-V-Plus-Liner--151746

https://www.bladehq.com/item--Benchmade-Full-Immunity-AXIS-Lock--137247

[Clusterfrack]

Of the options I listed above, I'd personally choose the Civivi (https://www.bladehq.com/item--CIVIVI-Ostap-Hel-Ki-V-Plus-Liner--151746) (which happens to be the cheapest), because it looks well-suited to a edge-in grip.

https://www.bladehq.com/webp/imgs/knives/pocket-knives/civivi-folding/ki-v/Civivi-Ostap-Hel-KiV-Plus-llk-Black-g10-2in-BB-BHQ-151746-td.webp

[Navin Johnson]

What folders do you currently use or are comfortable with? Easiest thing to do is cut or have the blade cut too desired length. Most short blades have short handles. The most important thing about a knife is the handle especially for SD considerations or just hard use.

As an example an Endura with a blade shortened gives one many gripping options and something to hold on to (works with gloves also)

Delicas work well for me so that is what I would use

Try manipulating a folder with a 2 or 3 finger grip under pressure

Utility Knives have 1 inch blades but not 1 inch handles

Stick with warncliffe blades for max cutting ability

[Totem Polar]

This is an ongoing concern for me, given that my state is folder-only for concealed, and several cities have “pocket knife, <3” or <3.5” etc.

I freely admit that my current choice is not going to be for everybody: The CRKT Provoke. Sub 2.5”, technically a folder, and most important: very reliable and robust opening. Of course, the glaring downside is: when you finish that robust opening cycle, you’re holding a goddam karambit. But, hey, there’s no free lunch—I decided that the only time I really need a tool like that is under “unequal initiative situations,” so I elected to go with something that I could access and open, every time. I’ve not found another folder that I feel is reliable enough *under pressure*. OMMV on that.

Now, all that said, if one hates karambits, and especially if one hates ringed knives with metal scales (I’m looking at you, Clusterfrack) then it might be worth grabbing one of the “microjimbos” (mini yojimbo) when it comes out. Mike Janich has *exactly* you and I’s intended usage for this iteration, Chance. I will most def be grabbing one to check out for myself. ( BillSWPA )

FWIW:

[Totem Polar]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLqJCMZcIHk&themeRefresh=1

[kev8287]

Take a look at Cold Steel Tuff Lite knives. While cost is not an issue, these are priced so you could have several.

[Chance]

What folders do you currently use or are comfortable with?

I'm not a big fan of folders, honestly. I decided to go with Clinch Pick-style knives years ago, but that's not an option presently.


I freely admit that my current choice is not going to be for everybody: The CRKT Provoke. Sub 2.5”, technically a folder, and most important: very reliable and robust opening.

Can you open that "up" and "down"? Meaning, if your pinky is in the finger ring, can you still deploy the blade?

[ST911]

Now, all that said, if one hates karambits, and especially if one hates ringed knives with metal scales (I’m looking at you, @Clusterfrack (https://pistol-forum.com/member.php?u=7807)) then it might be worth grabbing one of the “microjimbos” (mini yojimbo) when it comes out. Mike Janich has *exactly* you and I’s intended usage for this iteration, @Chance (https://pistol-forum.com/member.php?u=1910). I will most def be grabbing one to check out for myself. ( @BillSWPA (https://pistol-forum.com/member.php?u=12743) )

Haven't seen the micro in person yet, but Mike's Chicagojimbo is a great knife. Not sure if/how often 5x5 is doing them, but link:
https://5x5combatsolutions.com/shop/ols/products/michael-janich-custom-chicagojimbo-custom-spyderco-yojimbo-2

Someone needs to revive the Kahr/Delica4 variant. Would prefer an Endura (more more substantial handle) at or about that price point. Link:
https://www.spyderco.com/catalog/details/C11KAKH/941

[Totem Polar]

I'm not a big fan of folders, honestly. I decided to go with Clinch Pick-style knives years ago, but that's not an option presently.



Can you open that "up" and "down"? Meaning, if your pinky is in the finger ring, can you still deploy the blade?

Tangentially: I’m a *huge* CP fan, but even my ECQC training buddy/alum who are local LEO tell me it’s a no-go. [/FML]

As to opening both ways, I just tried it again, and sure, it’s doable. But the thing is specifically designed to rocket out of a pocket, waistband, or molle vest in reverse grip. FWIW.

[Guerrero]

Tangentially: I’m a *huge* CP fan, but even my ECQC training buddy/alum who are local LEO tell me it’s a no-go.

Why is the CP a no-go? Because it's a fixed blade?

[FNFAN]

The Spyderco Dodo was designed exactly for this purpose. Unfortunately it is no longer a regular production knife, but is occasionally made in limited runs.

The blade is 2.06 inches long. The handle is designed to provide a much better grip than most knives with a blade this small. The ball bearing lock is excellent. The pocket clip is discreet, but may need to be bent to optimize tension (all of mine have had to e loosened).

Th linked example is more expensive than most with carbon fiber handles.

https://www.bladehq.com/item--Spyderco-Dodo-Knife-Carbon-Fiber--12841

Thanks for mentioning this knife! Happened upon one on ebay with the jade green translucent scales and it's now on the way to me. I've downsized the size of blades I carry since retirement. My favorite so far is the 3" Three River Knives Neutron. Sharpest blade I've ever seen out of the box.

[Totem Polar]

Why is the CP a no-go? Because it's a fixed blade?

Yeah. Case law in the mid 90s eventually borked fix blade carry:

A Seattle police officer, Angela Johnson, responding to a public disturbance complaint at an intersection, encountered sixteen-year-old Dalona Myles, who “rudely responded” when questioned by officer Johnson. This precipitated a pat-down search of Myles, which revealed a paring knife with a three-inch blade in a pocket. She was charged, as a juvenile, for carrying a “dangerous weapon” furtively and with intent to conceal the same. The record does not suggest that Myles took the knife in hand during the incident.


Myles was found guilty in the juvenile proceeding and then sought review by the Washington Court of Appeals. That court held that the paring knife was a dangerous weapon:

A fixed-blade paring knife of whatever length is sufficiently like the specific objects ‘dagger’ and ‘dirk,’ named in the statute, that neither an ordinary citizen nor a police officer would have trouble understanding that under certain circumstances, such a knife may be a ‘dangerous weapon.’ State v Myles, 879 P2d 968 (1994). (underling supplied)

The Court of Appeals gave the nod to the principle of ejusdem generis and concluded that a ‘fixed-blade paring knife of whatever length’ was in the same class of knives as “daggers” and “dirks.” It incorporated “circumstances of possession” into 9.41.250. In other words, a thing might be a simple legal utensil in a kitchen, but if it is carried out into a street, it becomes a dangerous weapon…

..The State Supreme Court accepted that the paring knife was a dangerous weapon and did not disturb the Court of Appeals’ reasoning on that issue. It further solidifies the circumstances of possession aspect by judicial incorporation:

Lastly, we note that our reading of the statute is consistent with its apparent purpose. The statute is clearly designed to deter and punish the carrying of dangerous weapons under conditions which create an increased risk of unexpected or unforewarned violence. State v Myles, 903 P2d 979 (1995).

Thus, it is likely that, given the circumstances or conditions, any fixed blade knife, regardless of blade length, can be a “dangerous weapon.”


It took a while for this to play out, but the general LE consensus is that a concealed FB—even a short one—fits the statute. There is no provision in WA CCW permit law for anything other than pistols (unlike, say, Idaho—where a permit covers just about anything: Bowie knives, saps, nunchaku, Hi-points… whatever floats your boat…).

Of course, it appears that one can OC a fixed blade, but, #1 if I’m OC’ing a knife, it’ll be a lot bigger than a CP and, #2, I’m never going to be OC’ing anything anywhere urban in my particular lifestyle. :rolleyes:

Sort of a drag, but that’s the hand that’s been dealt.

[Jason M]

If you were willing to get the specialized training, this may be an option. Carried AIWB it could be one of the faster to deploy options available.

https://www.spyderco.com/catalog/details/C170GBBK/Karahawk-trade-G-10-All-Black/1022

[Guerrero]

Since it's technically a fixed blade, would a Ka Bar LDK be out of the question?

[camel]

Since it's technically a fixed blade, would a Ka Bar LDK be out of the question?

I dnlk. But I have one and it’s applicable to using it as a tool. The problem really is when you become a tool.

[Paul D]

Does it have to be a folding knife? I have a Boker Plus USB OTF knife that looks like a USB flash drive. I drop it in my scrub side pocket and it is handy as hell. Surprisingly it is also legal in CA! The HK below has a larger handle.

https://www.bladehq.com/webp/imgs/knives/out-the-front-automatics/hk-out-the-front/HK-Micro-Incursion-OTF-Automatic-Knife-Tumbled-Aluminum-Stonewash-54030-BHQ-118689-kp-in-hand-web.webp

[PNWTO]

https://regimentblades.com/folding-blade-steel-knife/

Definitely a different direction but the Regiment (Colonel) folder is listed at 2.3”. It’s a fairly large footprint, though.

I played with Defoor’s fixed Colonel at a class, it “made sense.” Al Savitti has some example videos on his IG and YT; I have the Regiment folder inbound.

[Chance]

Since it's technically a fixed blade, would a Ka Bar LDK be out of the question?

Fixed blade knives are explicitly verboten, unless you're using them to cut food, and I doubt that'd fool anyone.


I have a Boker Plus USB OTF knife that looks like a USB flash drive.

Not sure about OTF knives, but USB sticks are definitely not allowed. :rolleyes:

[ST911]

Someone needs to revive the Kahr/Delica4 variant. Would prefer an Endura (more more substantial handle) at or about that price point. Link:
https://www.spyderco.com/catalog/details/C11KAKH/941

Looks like a few of the Jandelas in stock. Endela handle, 2.5" blade.
https://5x5combatsolutions.com/shop/ols/products/michael-janich-custom-jandela-custom-spyderco-r-endela-r-322533


The Jandela begins with the Spyderco Endela® Lightweight, which is larger than the Delica 4, but smaller than the Endura®4. Michael Janich then personally custom grinds the 3.41-inch blade down to a legally compliant 2.5 inches. In the process, he also reprofiles the full-flat-ground VG-10 blade to a clip-point profile, “crowns” the clipped section with a radius, and removes the jimping (textured grooves) on the thumb ramp. He then polishes the spine of the blade to eliminate any abrasive surfaces that could cause damage during high-speed, full-power application and hand “laps” (polishes) the action to ensure smooth, one-handed operation. The blades of these knives are also laser engraved with Janich's signature and the word "custom" to indicate their elite, limited-edition status. The result is a “snubby” version of the Endela that provides plenty of grip for large hands and a legally friendly 2.5-inch blade that is also ideal for carry in restrictive jurisdictions like Chicago and Boston.

[luckyman]

https://regimentblades.com/folding-blade-steel-knife/

Definitely a different direction but the Regiment (Colonel) folder is listed at 2.3”. It’s a fairly large footprint, though.

I played with Defoor’s fixed Colonel at a class, it “made sense.” Al Savitti has some example videos on his IG and YT; I have the Regiment folder inbound.

I’m currently carrying this and a Pom as my California carry. I like it a lot; not quite as fast to open as the folding Karambit mentioned above but very sure to open. Kind of giddily to get closed. I was apparently the only person with a knife at my grandkid’s soccer game yesterday when they needed packages opened. My grandkids volunteered me as they knew I always carry a knife. Was worried that someone would have a problem with it, but everyone was just happy to have the packages opened.

[LJP]

I don’t think it’s made anymore, but you might look for a Three Rivers Atlas slip joint on the secondary market. I bought one in the advice of DB as a legal anywhere folding knife that was still capable. I believe the blade is 2.25”.

[Chuck Whitlock]

I'm kinda fond of the CRKT Pilar series.

https://www.bladehq.com/cat--CRKT-Pilar--3163

The first product on that page is my EDC pocket knife.

The second one I use clipped into the waistband of my swim trunks when I go to the beach.

You will need to find one of the 2.4" versions. The stainless handle is a little slippery...a version with the G10 or micarta handles would probably handle better.

Instead of clipping whatever you come up with inside your waistband, you might consider clipping it to an RCS Pocket Shield in your pocket.

https://rcsgear.com/pocket-shield-4

[Hot Sauce]

Cold Steel Tuff Lite is my choice for this role—it’s a poor man’s mini yojimbo.

Deep finger choir, great lock, warnie, and meaty enough to get your hands around.

Cheap enough to be damn near disposable.

[Exiledviking]

Cold Steel Tuff Lite is my choice for this role—it’s a poor man’s mini yojimbo.

Deep finger choir, great lock, warnie, and meaty enough to get your hands around.

Cheap enough to be damn near disposable.MidwayUSA has them on sale with a 25% off special offer plus free shipping if combined with other Free Shipping items.
I couldn't help myself...

[randyho]

https://regimentblades.com/folding-blade-steel-knife/

Definitely a different direction but the Regiment (Colonel) folder is listed at 2.3”. It’s a fairly large footprint, though.

I played with Defoor’s fixed Colonel at a class, it “made sense.” Al Savitti has some example videos on his IG and YT; I have the Regiment folder inbound.

pf.com is expensive.

[Totem Polar]

pf.com is expensive.

Try the 1911 threads or the wristwatch thread.

:cool:

[randyho]

Try the 1911 threads or the wristwatch thread.

:cool:
I bought 3 1911's last year.

[Clusterfrack]

Try the 1911 threads or the wristwatch thread.

:cool:

While we’re flexing on the poors… my defensive folder today is a bit larger than 2.5. Sorry for you bastards who have to be all civilized and shit. ;)

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230523/3ff5b1e90fab579ab9db33e5be1986ca.jpg

[Duelist]

pf.com is expensive.


Try the 1911 threads or the wristwatch thread.

:cool:


I bought 3 1911's last year.

Just bought a set of elk grips for a 1911.

I don’t own a 1911. Yet. ;)

[gato naranja]

If I had to go small, I'd be tempted to try a Dragonfly 2 Salt. Might be a slow one to deploy, though.

I live in a 3" or under jurisdiction, and I have been thinking very hard about putting a 5x5 "Pickpocket" on my Delica Wharncliffe SE. I don't open up a Spydie as quick and fumble-free as I used to.

[Hot Sauce]

If I had to go small, I'd be tempted to try a Dragonfly 2 Salt. Might be a slow one to deploy, though.

I live in a 3" or under jurisdiction, and I have been thinking very hard about putting a 5x5 "Pickpocket" on my Delica Wharncliffe SE. I don't open up a Spydie as quick and fumble-free as I used to.

Ziptie mode and mounting and opening it up a delica Pi’kal style works very well, too. I prefer bigger zip tie heads that have sharp rather than rounded corners to give a little more bite.

[gato naranja]

Ziptie mode and mounting and opening it up a delica Pi’kal style works very well, too. I prefer bigger zip tie heads that have sharp rather than rounded corners to give a little more bite.

I believe I have a new project for the weekend. Thanks!

[Lex Luthier]

I'm kinda fond of the CRKT Pilar series.

https://www.bladehq.com/cat--CRKT-Pilar--3163

The first product on that page is my EDC pocket knife.

The second one I use clipped into the waistband of my swim trunks when I go to the beach.

You will need to find one of the 2.4" versions. The stainless handle is a little slippery...a version with the G10 or micarta handles would probably handle better.

Instead of clipping whatever you come up with inside your waistband, you might consider clipping it to an RCS Pocket Shield in your pocket.

https://rcsgear.com/pocket-shield-4

I too am carrying the Large Pilar with D2 blade and G10 handle as an EDC most days. I also carry a Pilar III with D2 blade. These are also available with a nice Sandvik steel blade for about $20 more, though I'm not a fan of the aggressive texture on the G10 scale.
The Large Pilar needs a little breaking in and adjustment (torx bits are your friends) but sets up well. The thick blade cuts very nicely.

[Totem Polar]

Ziptie mode and mounting and opening it up a delica Pi’kal style works very well, too. I prefer bigger zip tie heads that have sharp rather than rounded corners to give a little more bite.

RevolverRob

[Chuck Whitlock]

I too am carrying the Large Pilar with D2 blade and G10 handle as an EDC most days. I also carry a Pilar III with D2 blade. These are also available with a nice Sandvik steel blade for about $20 more, though I'm not a fan of the aggressive texture on the G10 scale.
The Large Pilar needs a little breaking in and adjustment (torx bits are your friends) but sets up well. The thick blade cuts very nicely.

I've mentioned before that I came up when 440C was considered decent, and 154CM was some kind of Elven magic, so the differences between the steels used now is a little over my head, but I've grown fond of the D2 blade and stonewashed finish. I find that I don't really worry about the finish or corrosion. The sheepsfoot blade makes for an efficient utility blade that doe's look "tacticool".

The smaller all stainless version, after spending half the day in salt water, gets rinsed under the tap and a few drops of Slip 2000 and is good to go.

[RevolverRob]

Ziptie mode and mounting and opening it up a delica Pi’kal style works very well, too. I prefer bigger zip tie heads that have sharp rather than rounded corners to give a little more bite.


I believe I have a new project for the weekend. Thanks!


RevolverRob

The ziptie solution Rocks hard with a SOS:

p/ClrT0xDvjYq

But also the pickpocket and Wiseman Fang works. Flamingo

[PNWTO]

If I had to go small, I'd be tempted to try a Dragonfly 2 Salt. Might be a slow one to deploy, though.



I’ve got two of the fully-serrated Salt Dragonfly’s and really like them for what they are. Work well in boardshorts, suit coat pockets, clipped IWB behind a belt buckle, etc.

They indeed aren’t the quickest for manipulation but they can go just about anywhere and those Spyderco serrations are mean.

[BillSWPA]

I have a couple of Dragonflies with the Emerson opener. Spyderco’s version of the wave is the most reliable and gentlest on clothing of ANY knife offered with this feature (this applies to the waved Delicas and Enduras as well). However, the handle length of the Dragonfly is bare minimum for a decent level of confidence for any serious use. It is certainly worth considering if absolute minimum blade length is required and you need a knife now. I carry my Dodos instead despite the lack of a wave whenever I need < 2.5 inch.

[Hot Sauce]

If I had to go small, I'd be tempted to try a Dragonfly 2 Salt. Might be a slow one to deploy, though.

I live in a 3" or under jurisdiction, and I have been thinking very hard about putting a 5x5 "Pickpocket" on my Delica Wharncliffe SE. I don't open up a Spydie as quick and fumble-free as I used to.


Ziptie mode and mounting and opening it up a delica Pi’kal style works very well, too. I prefer bigger zip tie heads that have sharp rather than rounded corners to give a little more bite.

Pikal style draw: https://youtu.be/6Sk7B-XXCJY

Your wharncliffe is perfect for this sort is use in the reverse edge grip in style.

105057
Note the light blue Delica. The zip tie head has rounded corners. Still works very, because zip head is mounted on the same side as the clip so it gets maximal pocket contact on the way out. Proper technique as is to put just a little forward pressure on the way up and out during deployment, which again ensures that maximal zip head to clothing contact and gets reliable openings every time.

105058
On the dark blue Manix you see the zip tie head is a little more square which gets marginally more purchase than the rounded head, but everything else is essentially the same.

I even have one mounted on my Pi’kal folder because the metal opener fucks up the inside of my pants rather quickly. Ain’t nobody got time for that.

Although it may look like there’s slack in those zips, they’re on there pretty solid. Proper mounting is key. If you have a vise, use it.

105059

I use pliers to squeeze the edge of the zip head and push it down to get the last click of slack out. If you get more than very minimal movement of the zip head, try the next size zip up or down until you find the sweet spot. You may need to use different sizes ties on different knives because the variable is blade thickness—this is normal.

One thing to keep in mind is the lock you have on your folder. Backlocks like the Delica sometimes experience bounceback where it locks into position and then bounces back out of locked position, obviously very dangerous. This happens when draw the knife out way too aggressively. This does not happen with ball cage and compression locks. Most times the bounceback problem, if your folder experiences it, can be mitigated not only through proper technique but also through playing with loosening or tightening the main adjustment of how the blade sits in the handle.

[Le Français]

The 2.5" Cold Steel Kiridashi (https://www.bladehq.com/item--Cold-Steel-Kiridashi-Tri-Ad-Lock--105892) has been my EDC utility knife for a while, and does very well. It has stayed surprising sharp, and the pocket clip is unusual enough in appearance (wide and black plastic) that it might not even look like a knife to most people.

I don't like to depend on folders for defensive use (I think the in-fight weapon access problem is much harder with a folder), but once open, this one has some good features in its class: Straight edge for cutting power, strong lock, and a handle that discourages fingers from slipping onto the blade in an edge-out grip, and is very comfortable and secure in an edge-in grip as well.

My venerable Pacific Salt (not in the 2.5" category) has been relegated to swim trunk duty.

[gato naranja]

Your wharncliffe is perfect for this sort is use in the reverse edge grip in style.

That Delica Wharnie of mine is a cutter... and is not tolerant of absent-mindedness.

Those are good pics and comments on the zip-tie mod. Much appreciated.

[randyho]

Just bought a set of elk grips for a 1911.

I don’t own a 1911. Yet. ;)
That thread is the anti-Christ

[Totem Polar]

That thread is the anti-Christ

So is not owning a 1911.

;)

[Norville]

While we’re flexing on the poors… my defensive folder today is a bit larger than 2.5. Sorry for you bastards who have to be all civilized and shit. ;)

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230523/3ff5b1e90fab579ab9db33e5be1986ca.jpg

Visiting a free state - Hinderer Maximus, dagger version. For Chicago , a Delica Kahr despite them being “collectible “ now.

[Joe Mac]

The Microjimbo is looking good. Pre-orders are up on BladeHQ, Knifecenter, etc.

[Guerrero]

Chance could you get by with a 2.7" blade? Like an Emerson CQC-14?

https://www.jtknives.com/CQC-14-Snubby_p_121.html

[PNWTO]

Chance could you get by with a 2.7" blade? Like an Emerson CQC-14?

https://www.jtknives.com/CQC-14-Snubby_p_121.html

If he’s at a place where errant USB sticks are a no-go then it’s safe to assume some chucklehead has the ability, and the lack of an interesting life, to whip out a ruler.

I’ve seen bored SNCOs dig out the tape measure for civilian contractors while in a SCIF, so there’s a relevant risk.

[Totem Polar]

The Microjimbo is looking good. Pre-orders are up on BladeHQ, Knifecenter, etc.

The good thing about being a blade whore is having accounts at all those vendors dating back decades. Makes P-F impulse buying effortless.
:)

[RevolverRob]

I am reasonably sure the MicroJimbo is going to end up with an SOS mold. And some investigation if a Wiseman Fang or 5x5 Pickpocket will fit it.

It looks like a phenomenal choice for sub 2.5" environments. It also has reshaped scales relative to the other Yojimbos with a more neutral looking handle. I will need it in hand to determine if a reverse grip works with it, but looks promising so far.

ETA: Linky - https://www.knifecenter.com/item/SP264GPBK/spyderco-microjimbo-folding-knife-s30v-black-dlc-plain-blade-black-g10-handles

[ST911]

Microjimbo is interesting. Having a bigger hand, I'm wondering how much smaller the grip will be both in dim and feel from the yojimbo.

[Guerrero]

Microjimbo is interesting. Having a bigger hand, I'm wondering how much smaller the grip will be both in dim and feel from the yojimbo.

Agree: that Microjimbo is looking more and more intriguing.

[vcdgrips]

As someone who has to potentially deal with this on both sides of the equation i.e. someone who may carry a knife, someone who could theoretically consequence someone who carried a knife that was too big:

I would advise someone to carry a knife that had a blade length that is clearly less than 2.5 inches.

I would measure the blade in a manner such that the blade is 2.5 max at any point along where the ricasso meet the bolster/handles of the knife.

I fully understand that many knife have sharpened edges less than 2.5 inch but when the knife if "bottomed out" against the edge of a desk or ruler, the "blade" is going to visibly measure longer than 2.5 inches.

One could then argue the blade is really just the sharpened edge, not the dull choil, flipper etc. Knock yourself out being that test case. Notably, many of the larger retailers do an excellent job differentiating between the blade length and the cutting edge length in this regard online.


YMMV- to quote Stephanie B " I wouldn't do that s@&* if I were you."


PS--Edge of my lane re knife "anatomy terms."

[PNWTO]

Agree: that Microjimbo is looking more and more intriguing.

Agreed, I know it had been getting some discussion but didn’t realize it was about to on the street. That may be the inverse gateway drug into finally just buying the OG Yojimbo.

I hate sounding like a steel nerd, and I’m definitely not, but would like to see it offered in a “Salt” steel. One of my favorite travel things about the Dragonfly Salt is that I can stow it in my boardshorts and go in and out of water all day and maybe rinse it in the sink.

[Totem Polar]

I would measure the blade in a manner such that the blade is 2.5 max at any point along where the ricasso meet the bolster/handles of the knife.



Sound thinking. Another point in favor of this new microjimbo offering.

[Clusterfrack]

… reshaped scales relative to the other Yojimbos with a more neutral looking handle. I will need it in hand to determine if a reverse grip works with it, but looks promising…

I’m glad to see this. I want to like Spyderco knives for so many reasons, but the deep finger grooves and in-swept blade angle don’t work for me.

[Chance]

Chance could you get by with a 2.7" blade? Like an Emerson CQC-14?

https://www.jtknives.com/CQC-14-Snubby_p_121.html

vcdgrips and PNWTO addressed that better than I could.

[Yute]

I had Ban Tang reprofile a Spyderco P'Kal's blade down to 2.5 inches. Neat package.

[FNFAN]

Decided to return the Spyderco Dodo as the grip was to small for my hands. Ordered one of the Michael Janich custom Jandela's.

[Joe S]

Anyone get their hands on a Microjimbo yet?

[Totem Polar]

Anyone get their hands on a Microjimbo yet?

Still not available. I’ve had a preorder in since this topic—and all you enablers posting therein—cropped up. I’m sure this thread will arise from the dead the minute that thing hits my mailbox.

[Elbowtko]

Cold Steel Tuff Lite is my choice for this role—it’s a poor man’s mini yojimbo.

Deep finger choil great lock, warnie, and meaty enough to get your hands around.

Cheap enough to be damn near disposable.

Agree with this.
Under 2.5 inches, deep choil which even the micro yojimbo does not have, triad lock. Also the arch of the blade gives the tremendous ability to pierce cut, there's a video on youtube of the mini tuft light pierce cutting through a phone book in one try. Stab and then rake through whatever needs to be cut.

Not only that but it doubles as an actual good utility blade for work and is cheap to replace. I wish they had a 2.95-inch version to complete their series... call it the Tuft lite XL. It is IMO cold steels best small blade. I have two of them in red, looks like a folding box cutter too for those that care.

[BK14]

No direct experience, but this model benchmade popped up in my email the other day. 2.49” wharnecliff blade.

https://www.benchmade.com/products/290bk-2-full-immunity

[luckyman]

No direct experience, but this model benchmade popped up in my email the other day. 2.49” wharnecliff blade.

https://www.benchmade.com/products/290bk-2-full-immunity

Whoa, that looks really interesting.

[Totem Polar]

Bumping to add a blade that I don’t remember seeing in this thread before:


https://emersonknives.com/shop/knives/limited-models/june-bug/

2.3”, wharnnie, grippy, USA. Might be an option.


https://emersonknives.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/June-Bug-TF-Green-Black-G101.jpg

[SeriousStudent]

Chance, I apologize for not seeing and commenting on this thread earlier. Life has been complex this year.

If you are still seeking input, I would be delighted to wander over someplace convenient and bring the Suitcase Of Knives for you to examine. If you want to borrow a couple to carry for a while, I'd be delighted to loan them to you for an extended test and comparison.

I hope you and the Missus are doing well. Let me know if you are interested. Thanks! :)

[Joe S]

I am reasonably sure the MicroJimbo is going to end up with an SOS mold. And some investigation if a Wiseman Fang or 5x5 Pickpocket will fit it.

It looks like a phenomenal choice for sub 2.5" environments. It also has reshaped scales relative to the other Yojimbos with a more neutral looking handle. I will need it in hand to determine if a reverse grip works with it, but looks promising so far.

ETA: Linky - https://www.knifecenter.com/item/SP264GPBK/spyderco-microjimbo-folding-knife-s30v-black-dlc-plain-blade-black-g10-handles

Not sure if this is super old news to you at this point, but I picked one up recently, so lightly used it was basically new. Grips are subjective, but I will try to get some pics and measurements up soon.

[Chance]

Tried carrying the CRKT Provoke for the first part of the year. Great piece of kit, but it's way too bulky for this particular purpose and I couldn't find a place to carry it that was realistically accessible without also being actively uncomfortable.

The MicroJimbo arrived yesterday and my initial impressions are favorable. It's only slightly longer than a Clinch Pick and I'm wondering if I can get a Clinch Pick-style sheath for it, as the regulations at work say it has to be a folding knife but say nothing about carrying it folded.

125549

[Rocket20_Ginsu]

I have a khar spyderco delica that fits the bill


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[WobblyPossum]

Tried carrying the CRKT Provoke for the first part of the year. Great piece of kit, but it's way too bulky for this particular purpose and I couldn't find a place to carry it that was realistically accessible without also being actively uncomfortable.

The MicroJimbo arrived yesterday and my initial impressions are favorable. It's only slightly longer than a Clinch Pick and I'm wondering if I can get a Clinch Pick-style sheath for it, as the regulations at work say it has to be a folding knife but say nothing about carrying it folded.

125549

Have you played around with the wave attachments like the one 5x5 Combat Solutions sells? If carrying the knife open like a fixed blade ends up being a no-go, a wave might help you get it open faster.

[Chance]

Have you played around with the wave attachments like the one 5x5 Combat Solutions sells? If carrying the knife open like a fixed blade ends up being a no-go, a wave might help you get it open faster.

I have not, but I've had the MicroJimbo for two whole days, so I might give a wave a whirl if I can't get the knife out of my pocket and deployed satisfactorily.