I would take a look at the ZT0566 models, I fell in love with them at blade show! Speed safe assisted opening flipper, Elmax steel, frame lock, and the awesome Hinderer design. I need to go see Brad!
...combination of sleek yet rugged. Tactical yet refined...It definitely wins in the "hefty" department.
Well guys, it looks like DaKruiser wins this round.
After much internal debate I decided on the ZT0566BW. I already talked to Brad @ bradsknives and his price beat everything else I've seen advertised on the net.
Here was my thinking in picking the ZT--
Pricing was above my budget but under my high budget.
I like knives made in America.
The blade profile combined with the overall Hinderer design is a great combination of sleek yet rugged. Tactical yet refined.
It definitely wins in the "hefty" department.
I really like the deep seated "low profile" clip that ZT uses. And that its black. That should make it stand out a bit less when I'm in dress slacks at work.
The single-scale design of these frame-lock knives gives them kind of a dual personality, which I find interesting. One side looks very sleek and rugged, while the other looks elegantly mechanical. The blackwash finish is VERY cool.
Some of the online listings described ELMAX steel as having good edge retention properties, which I like.
As for the frame lock, I look at this as an opportunity to try it out and form a solid opinion for myself.
Thanks for all the great recommendations that were shared. It gave me lots of things to think about and compare.
The ZT0566 is okay, I suppose, if you can't handle the man version (ZT0560BW or the even manlier ZT0561).
Got word from bradsknives that my ZT0566BW has arrived. I'll be picking it up sometime this coming week. I'll be sure to report back with my initial impressions.
I wonder if you know anyone with some land out in the country, perhaps with some woods, where you might be able to find some things to cut?
Perhaps I can find someone with some woods that they would love to share.
I keep hearing about some guy down in Brown county that is generous in allowing people to "play" in his woods.
1. Priced under $150. Under $100 would be even better, but I don't mind pushing the budget a bit if it gets me something better.
2. No liner locks. I'm leery of liner locks, even high end ones.
3. Medium to large size.
In fact I actually prefer if it has a little heft to it. I don't want anything super lightweight.
4. Plain non-serrated blade.
5. No bright colors. Black or very dark would be best.
Would prefer a black pocket clip.
6. I don't care if it has a thumb hole or thumb stud opener-- either is fine.
Could be non-assisted, waved, assisted opening, or auto. Don't care which.
7. Would like the best possible steel in my budget. Edge retention would be priority.
The 0566 was my first suggestion.