A Knife For Mother's Day

Hello all! I return to you today with a gift idea for Mother's Day that most people don't think about! Now seeing as this is a knife blog you probably know I am going to say to get her a knife, and you are right, but not just any knife, a Kershaw Chive.

This knife is one of Kershaw's top of the line assisted openers and is a the perfect size for a female hand. My wife carries a knife, and more than more self defense! She loves having something sharp available to cut through packaging, paper, or whatever she needs. She also likes to have something to threaten me with! Kidding!

Most pocket knives don't really fit most girl's color schemes, but Kershaw has that covered as well! Besides their plain stainless handle, they also have a pink handle, and a titanium coated rainbow model! Check them out!

The 1600PINK has an anodized aluminum handle and a 420HC Steel blade. It retails for around $50, but you can get them for under $40.

The 1600VIB also has a 420HC blade, along with a 410 Stainless handle. Both the blade and the handle have been treated with rainbow titanium-oxide coating. This one retails for around $72, but you can usually find it for around $65 or less.

So, now you know what mom would love to have in her purse next time she is walking alone, or needs to open a box. Hope you and yours have a wonderful Mother's Day!

Sincerely,

TKG

The Benchmade 710: Just A Good Knife

I usually write about knives that I own myself, but today I am going to write about one that I am getting ready to purchase. I can't be more excited about it. I have ordered the Benchmade 710, a McHenry and Williams design that has become one of Benchmade's more popular knives in recent years.

The thing I love the most about the 710 is the grip. I am a huge fan of G10, and Benchmade does not use that handle material a lot, using anodized aluminum most of the time instead. The 710 has a sleek look and design, with a great grip. Benchmade's AXIS lock is also present, and the blade is made of a premium D2 Tool Steel, which means this knife is made for hard use applications. Take a look:

As you can see, it has a modified clip point, and the blade is almost 4 inches, which is pretty long for an EDC, but the weight is good at under 5 oz, and the balance feels great. Basically, if you have the need for an everyday knife that will work as hard as you do, while still keeping style in mind, this is the knife for you. The knife retails at around $170, and with all it has to offer, is totally worth it!

Anyone have a 710? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!

Sincerely,

TKG

Cheap OTFs: OTF Function, But Worth The Price?

Ok, so as many you of know I am not shy about the fact that I love OTF autos. I am also not shy about the fact that I love quality. Which is why I had to write about the cheap OTF Autos I saw the other day.

First of all, lets call a duck a duck and say what these knives are. They are Microtech knock-offs, plain and simple. They look and function like a Microtech, but are made overseas, and made with much inferior materials and quality. The handles, instead of being anodized aluminum, are made of stainless steel and are painted black. The blades are made of an unknown stainless and are also painted black. Also, they hardly ever come very sharp, and even if you use a good sharpener, they cannot retain an edge at all.

Now, I know this all sounds bad, and while I definitely would never recommend carrying one of these knives as an EDC, they are still interesting to me because of the fact that they are so inexpensive. Most people do not realize that a Microtech-like OTF has more moving parts and a more complex action than a lot of handguns. That is why they are so expensive. Most OTFs START at $200 and can go way up, so much so that you could pay thousands for a custom piece. Also, due to import laws, it is illegal to import automatic knives into the USA, which is why all the big brands make their autos in the USA even when they outsource other knives.

The other day, I saw a knock off selling online for $20. TWENTY DOLLARS. My guess is that people order these and get them and are sometimes unsatisfied with the quality, but what do you expect for $20? It has the same function as a knife that usually costs $200 or more, and while not amazing in the quality realm, this is a fun knife to own, and if you lose it, you aren't out much.

Like I said, I don't recommend these knives as an EDC, however, you have to realize you are paying for the technology. If the knife was not an OTF, it would be a total piece of junk, but considering that it is a functioning OTF, it is great as a novelty or a gift.

All that being said, if you can afford it, get a Microtech!

Thanks!

TKG

The Switchblade Debate: Where Do You Stand?

There has been a lot of talk going around in the blog world about some states, led by the push in Tennessee, that are trying to lift their ban on switchblades, or automatic knives. Tennessee's Senate has overwhelmingly passed the bill, which was introduced with help from Knife Rights, and it is going through the House currently. Most people seem to be in favor of this bill. I have heard a few complaints about it making it easier for an attacker to quickly and easily attack an unsuspecting victim, but that brings me to my main point.

The problem I have with knife laws is more of a lack of consistency with them. If a switchblade is really too quick and easy to activate, making it that much more dangerous of a weapon, then why are assisted openers legal? They open just as quickly and there is no one trying to outlaw them or complaining that they are too dangerous. Assisted openers were invented with the switchblade laws in mind. They were invented to circumvent those laws while still providing a knife that opens quickly and with one hand. And even with the knife industry basically laughing in the face of the law with the invention of such knives, no one has done anything to outlaw them.

This is because the ban on switchblades is antiquated. It is time for the government to trust its people by allowing them to own and carry a useful tool that makes working with a knife so much easier. It is time to remove a law that does nothing but keep good people from owning something that could one say save their life. And I am not just talking about self defense. Car wrecks or other emergencies sometimes only allow for the use of one hand. It is time to take action.

Write your state senator or congressman and tell them to get on board with this. Do you agree? Do you think I am wrong? I would love to read your feedback!

Sincerely,

TKG

SOG Autos: Decent Price and Quality

For those of you who read this blog you know how I feel about quality. I am amazed at how much the quality of an entire brand can start to go down the tubes when they outsource or start trying to save a buck or two by compromising what made them great in the first place.

One brand I feel has been guilty of this in a few cases is SOG Knives. Don't get me wrong, they are still a great knife, but it is so easy to tell the difference between the knives they no longer make in the USA and the ones they do. But one line in particular that it made here and are a great deal for the money are the SOG Automatics.

The SOG Autos are are great size, and they also come in a mini version for those with smaller hands. The TAC Auto, their original, has a somewhat tacky SOG logo across the handle, but once you get over that, the knife is awesome. It has a Japanese AUS8 Steel with a very comfortable grip on its aluminum handle. Take a look:

The blade is super sharp and the auto action is quick and functional. These knives retail for around $200, but you can get them cheaper online. For the money this is a great little auto that will do everything you need.

Let me know what you think!

Sincerely.

TKG

Spyderco Endura - Giving a Classic Its Due

As a knife lover, I always like to look back on the knives I have had over the years. I am always asked what my favorites are and why, and I am always happy to oblige. If you read this blog you know that I have developed a taste for pretty expensive knives. You do get what you pay for. However, I also understand not only that not everyone can afford a $300 Benchmade, but also that you don't want to give up too much quality for a lower price.

Look no further than Spyderco. Founded in 1976 by Sal Glesser, Spyderco actually started as a sharpener company, which is why you will see one of their slogans: "We made things sharp before we made sharp things." They played a huge role in starting many ideas that are now knife mainstays, like the pocket clip, serrations, and their signature opening hole. And while most of their knives are no longer made in the US, they still have a very high quality for an import. Of these knives, my favorite has go to be the Spyderco Endura.

The Endura is a larger version of the Delica. I like my knives to have a weight and heft. They feel better in my hand and for some seem easier to hold on to, and are definitely harder to lose. This is why I choose the Endura over its little brother.

The Endura was introduced in 1990, and Spyderco is now in its fourth generation on this knife. The current version has better ergonomics, slip resistant jimping, and a larger thumb hole. It is made with VG10 or ZDP-189 steel and comes with handles in stainless steel and FRN, and you can get the blade with a standard or a flat grind. Of course, they sell it with or without serrations, which they call a Spyderedge.

For a retail price ranging from $95 to $145 depending on the steel and options, this knife is an affordable option that does not skimp out on quality. With a great grip, easy open and good steel, this knife is one of my favorites that won't break the bank.

Have you ever owned a Spyderco? Let me know what you think!

TKG

Bedlam the Beast - Why You Need This Knife

The scimitar blade, which curves back to a point usually higher than some point on the spine, has been around since the 9th century, and has many different variations, such as the saber. It was mostly found on swords used by mounted soldiers. The curved blade and light weight made it great for slashing while on horseback.

This blade style is just one of the things that makes the Benchmade Bedlam so popular. This knife is a beast, and is quickly becoming a staple of the Benchmade lineup. It is sleek and aggressive and because of the textured G10 handle, feels great in the hand. The grooved handle shape gives the knife great grip and control. And as the blade type insinuates, it is a great slashing blade with a sharp point capable of piercing about anything. Take a look:

The knife is large, 9.75 inches overall, and is not recommended for those with small hands, but is a great carry knife for military, police, or anyone who wants to be able to protect themselves at the touch of a switch, an AXIS switch to be exact.

Bedlam means a state of uproar, or chaos, and with this knife that is exactly the reaction you get. You get a big, striking, well-made knife that you will want to have by your side, and with a handle like the Bedlam's, it is safe to say that the kind of chaos you get with this knife is the best kind: Controlled Choas.

TKG

The Benchmade Adamas - New to Me

Well friends, I was finally, after a almost a year of waiting, able to get my hands on the Benchmade Adamas Folder. While the knife was released last year, I am just now getting one in my hands. Needless to say, it is quite a piece of work.

I have always been a huge fan of the AXIS lock system. It is always good to have an ambidextrous locking system because of the many times when you are using a tool with your non-dominant hand. The AXIS lock is also strong and holds up incredibly well. The Adamas utilizes the AXIS in the manual as well the Auto version, which has the AXIS-Auto mechanism where the AXIS functions as both the firing switch and the lock mechanism.

The Adamas also has Benchmade's popular tactical drop-point blade made of D2 Tool Steel. D2 is a premium American steel that is often used on tools and fixed blade knives due to it's incredible toughness. This makes the Adamas a knife designed for tough, hard use and durability.

The handle is a G10 with a lanyard hole and a great feel, and is available in both black and tan. Another very cool thing about this knife is that it was designed, by Shane Sibert, as a tribute to the Army Rangers, The US Army's premier fighting force. For every one of these knives sold, Benchmade Knives donates some of the proceeds to the Ranger Assistance Foundation, which makes the manufacturer suggested $195 price tag a little easier to deal with. Although, to get a true Benchmade Folder with D2 that is a pretty good price, and I am sure you can find it for less.

Here is a look at the tan version:

Overall, if you are looking for a tough, good-looking knife while donating to a great cause, this is your knife. It has stood up to every test I have put through so far, so let me know what your experience is like.

Sincerely,


TKG

New Microtech Release - Death on Contact

Well our friends at Microtech Knives are about to release a new knife that is a collaboration between their owner, Tony Marfione, and well known custom knife maker, Mick Strider. It is the Microtech DOC, which stands for "Death on Contact".

While I feel the name is quite silly, the knife is quite the opposite. A 3.75" inch blade of premium steel, complete with a dimpled back section. The handle is G-10 and will have the same dimpled look and feel. The MSRP is going to be around $350 for manual OR automatic. Yes. The manual is the same price as the auto. Go figure.

Here is a look at a custom version of the knife from last year:

The knife will be available in Black, Satin, Bead-Blast and Stonewashed in both plain and partially serrated. All 8 of those variations will be available in automatic or manual.

Anyway, be sure to be one of the first to get this new knife. And don't worry, I am pretty sure the Death on Contact thing is not literal!

Sincerely,

TKG

Favorite OTF Models

Out the front automatics are a very popular knife style these days. Despite their legality issues in most places, they remain a staple in the forefront of knife technology and popularity. So...

What is an Out-The-Front (OTF) Knife?

An OTF is a knife on which the blade fires out of the front of the handle, as opposed to the more traditional side opening knives. Original OTF autos were spring loaded and fired with the push of a button, but then had to be retracted with a plunger on the  bottom of the handle.

In a design perfected in the Microtech Ultratech, the OTF became a truly one handed operation. The knife fires and retracts automatically, due to a spring that sits at rest, and is charged by the firing switch, which replaced the button of the old models.

While the Ultratech is an automatic favorite, I actually prefer Microtech's Scarab. It is a wider, beefier, double springed model based off the Ultratech design. As a larger guy (6'3'', 240 lbs) I tend to like the bigger knives, and a considerable amount of thumb strength is required to effectively use this knife.

My second favorite, and though it is second it is more readily available, is the Benchmade Infidel. Like all other models from Benchmade Knives, this Infidel is made with great materials and unbeatable quality. The spring just does not have the same snap as the Scarab, and the firing switch is on the top of the handle instead of the side, which does not seem as natural. The Infidel is also a big, beautiful knife and features a 3.95" blade.

Let me know in the comments below what your preference is and why! Also, I am up for discussing anything you want to know about in the knife world, leave your suggestions below!

Sincerely,

TKG

Here we go...

Hello Everyone!

I am pretty excited to be talking knives with everyone. This blog is a place to come for discussion on blades of all kinds. From Benchmade Knives to Kershaw Knives to Microtech Knives, we can talk about the things that make these knives special to us as well as new models, steels, and designs by today's top brands! I will also be pointing out the sales that are available on your favorite models, as well doing reviews on certain knife models. Let me know if there is anything you want to know, and we will try to address it!

Much Love,

The Knife Guy