Trying to decide on my next EDC

M

moist

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Jan 30, 2021
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For nearly a month, I've been looking for a good EDC, and I've discovered little besides the fact that there are too many desirable knives for my wallet. So I've come here to ask for some of the best options for me that are under $150, preferably under $120. I'm looking for something that is overall fairly low maintenance and reasonably usable for self-defense (as much as I hate to say it, my beloved Dragonfly is less intimidating than a tactical fork). I'm considering the Launch 8, but a major concern of mine is chipping. My first EDC, which I still use now and then, was a Kershaw Leek with Sandvik, how does it compare?
 
I dont personally own knives for self defense, knife fighting is ugly. I prefer firearms for that. That being the case, if you are looking for self defense as a primary use than automatics like the launch series are probably a fairly decent option. Easy to get out and open up in a case of panic (MAKE SURE YOU CAN OWN AND CARRY AUTOMATIC KNIVES IN YOUR LOCALITY BEFORE PURCHASE). You can also look at some of the Emerson models that are built with SD in mind using their Wave feature to catch on the pocket and open as you take them out of your pocket. Its worth a youtube search if you have never seen the wave feature in action. There are also several wave feature kershaw models that are well under 120$ if price is a concern.

Besides that, the Spyderco Yojimbo is a blade with self defense in mind running a compression lock and a very sharp wharncliff style blade. Typically those are going to run a bit more than 150$ though unless you go used.

Of course when all is said and done, the fastest, most sturdy knife for Self Defense applications is and always will be a fixed blade knife. Something along the lines of the Kabar TDI series comes to mind. Good luck in your hunt.
 
PM2 or Manix 2. The Manix is chunkier but feels solid. The PM2 would probably be just fine for EDC. Or dare I suggest an Endela, which I think is a nice compromise for folks who just aren't ready for that Endura blade length. But you'd get better steel options on the Manix/PM2. Don't get a knife for SD.
 
I'm not a huge fan of the launch line. I have 3 of them, but they have all been less than perfect when it comes to lock up.

If you are looking for a fast to fire knife that is similar to your leek, maybe look into the entry level ZT knives like the 350 and 357. Both capable hard use knives. They are both around the $150 mark.

If you want something bigger than the dragonfly, why not an Endura or some such Spyderco? Very well built knives, as you know.
 
The Spyderco Astute, Civivi Asticus, Kershaw Emerson line (if self defense is a priority, and if it is take classes for it).
 
Welcome to Blade Forums.

Folding knives are not good for self defense. If you are concerned with self defense, I strongly recommend that you spend some time watching "Active Self Protection" on YouTube. They collect actual footage of defensive encounters and offer analysis from a competent trainer. You'll see a wide variety of different kinds of defensive encounters. (Warning, it is occasionally graphic and the good guys don't always win.)

Legitimate defensive encounters are thankfully rare but preparedness means being prepared for what could actually happen. Real defensive encounters can be fast and chaotic. When choosing a defensive tool, it's important to think of the steps involved in actually using it. For any defensive tool, you'll have to get it out and have it ready to use. This is a big part of why consensus has largely formed against carrying on an empty chamber in the gun community. For folding knives, you'll always have the extra steps of needing to successfully deploy the blade to a fully locked position and establishing a proper grip to use it effectively. That can be tough with a person, group of persons, or aggressive animal on top of you and actively trying to harm you. Then you'll also have the issue of lock strength versus force and abrupt angle changes. It's just not worth it.

If self defense really matters, explore whether an EDC firearm would be right for you. If not, explore the world of EDC fixed blades. A good EDC fixed blade with the right sheath can handle all your regular cutting chores and double nicely as a defensive tool. Depending on how that goes, you'll also find that choosing a good EDC folder is much easier when freed from tactical considerations.
 
how about a black endura
spc10psbbk$01-spyderco-endura-4-spc10psbbk-01.jpg
 
My take on it would be this:
Esee 3
Esee Izula
Fallkniven F1
Fallkniven WM1

Fixed blades are much stronger, and faster do draw and use, as there's no wasting time to open them and then readjust your grip afterwards.

If fixed blades are illegal, I would say get a large Voyager, triad lock is very solid, knife is built like a tank, and it's well under your budget, you can even choose if you'd like a clip point, tanto or Vaquero...
 
I've been EDC'ing the Spyderco Endela in VG10. So far this steel has blown me away. It keeps a very sharp and keen edge well, and is easy to touch up when it does begin to dull. Simple back lock, good traction. This has been my work horse for the past couple weeks. I am very impressed.
If you are okay with a less than sexy knife, check out a Endura or Endela. For a true carry knife that will be used for almost everything, they're great.

You did mention a Kershaw Launch. I had a Launch, and it was a great knife. It had great action and very little blade play. That's a knife I regret gifting, Haha.
So if you want a sexier, more exciting knife, a Kershaw Launch isn't a bad choice.
 
I would recommend a CPK DEK1, but it's a fixed blade and outside of your price range. If you are adamant about a folder then I would say a Kershaw Launch 1. I love mine! It opens with a good snap and locks up great. I've never had a problem with mine.
But if you want a knife for self defense, you really should carry a good fixed blade.
 
Thanks for all the answers. Although I'm aware an EDC firearm is more effective, there are a lot of places I go where I rather not take a gun, or can't (or at least really shouldn't) take one. The fixed blade options are nice and I'll look into them more. I'm not expecting any trouble, just don't want to be relying on optimism and knuckles should it find me.
 
If you are looking for something just for self defense, go down to WallyWorld and get something for $20 - a cheap Chinese made knife, or a kitchen knife even. That way it won't be so bad when it get taken away from you by either the cops or the people you are trying to defend yourself against. Something like this is generally a single use instrument anyhow....no sense in spending any more than necessary...
 
1. knife fighting is ugly. I have had the training. If you want training in the basic movements, they are the same as in escrima, so just take some lessons in escrima and don't bother to go on for different colored belts.
2. Kershaw. I have all kinds of opening systems. For ME, the speed safe Kershaw 3655 with the 3.5 inch blade is fine. At one time some fed was holding up a shipment because the speed safe is so fast in deployment that the fed though it was a switchblade.
3. Yes, I have Emersons and Benchmades. Just speed-safe system works for me.
4. If can't carry fire arm or a concealed knife, obtain a flashlight, a yawara stick or equivalent or an aircraft aluminum or stainless steel pen - there plenty that are marketed as defensive tools.
I hear a lot from the "carry a gun crowd" who poo poo a knife or the alternatives. Just let them go to the VA, the local post office or any other federal installation and proclaim "I'm carrying a gun and I have a concealed weapon License". Or go to the local state courthouse, the local high school and make the same proclamation.
 
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