ZT0350 vs. Para-Military 2

mattz357

mattz357

Joined
Jun 20, 2002
Messages
873
Probably going to get a pretty biased response by posting this here, but I am really having a hard time deciding. I've had a 0350 (several actually), and really like it, but I find myself interested in the PM2 more and more these days. I know the ZT is a tank, but what is the best feature about the PM2? Does anyone have a side by side pic of the two? My head is in a fog with anticipation for the 0560, can anyone help me decide between these two???
 
It depends on the tasks/what you prefer carrying. Slicing sort of tasks I prefer the paramilitary 2. "Harder" use tasks/ a love for beefier blades I would go with the ZT.
2 differnt lock up mechanisms too, I really like the compression lock but theres nothing wrong with the ZT's liner lock.

They are also 2 different shapes, if your not good at sharpening recurves then I would stick away from the ZT.

Honestly, I think the "best feature" about the para 2 is its size/function. Its really practicle for EDC purposes and the lock has never given me any problems. It also slips in the pocket and you are less likely to notice it.
 
Both are great knives. Here are some pics,

P1030173.jpg


P1030174.jpg


P1030175.jpg


P1030176.jpg
 
Thanks for the pics! I wouldn't have guessed the pm2 was bigger than the 0350. Honestly, most of my cutting is VERY light duty, I just like how solid the zt is. Not having seen or held a pm2 before it may be solid too, I'm just not sure. Decisions, decisions.
 
The ZT is a tank of a knife that could most probably handle anything you throw at it, however the PM2 is just about EDC perfection... the size and ergo's of the handle, and the full flat grind goodness of the blade makes for a slicing beast. I have several zt0350's to choose from (elmax, s30v,zdp-189) and I always opt for the PM2 as my EDC.
 
I have both. My favorite EDC is the PM2. But once I get home my favorite fondling knife is the 350. I ;ove the assisted opening eventhough the PM2 flys open. Both are really very different. If I was pressed to make a decision I would have to go with the 350 between the two. I'm also a big Spydie fan but the 350 is awesome.
 
Para 2: 4 mm thick blade, compression lock.
ZT 0350: 3 mm thick blade, liner lock.

Not sure why people think the 0350 is more hard use than a para 2. I dont see it and I own both. I would pick based on what your preferred deployment method is since both are excellent knives.
 
Seeing them side by side I really see some things. For the overall size of the pm2, the cutting edge actually looks pretty short. I would never have guessed the pm2 blade was thicker than the zt blade. Thanks for all the info and opinions!
 
Either knife is a great EDC, but it depends on what kind of environment your in as to which one you should EDC. Just cutting paper and boxes I would go with PM, all other situations, the 350.


I am going to modify one of my 350's blade to take some of the re-curve out of it and make it a better slicer and stabber. Trying to get the best of both worlds in one platform. I really like the 350 more than any other knife I have but Spydies are a close 2nd, especially the tenacious.
 
I would choose the 0350 over the PM 2 for hard use/ prying because the tip on the PM 2 would easily break before the 0350

kawr said:
Para 2: 4 mm thick blade, compression lock.
ZT 0350: 3 mm thick blade, liner lock.

Not sure why people think the 0350 is more hard use than a para 2. I dont see it and I own both. I would pick based on what your preferred deployment method is since both are excellent knives.
Click to expand...
 
Para 2 is the best EDC. Its lighter and it's blade shape is more versatile. I liked my ZT0350 but the Para does everything better and weighs less. I even field dressed a deer with my Para 2 and its handle was ideal. The 0350 is a good alternative to a 0300 only because the 0300 is ridiculously heavy. I really wanted to like the 0350-0300 but their fat stumpy blades are not ideal for 99% of what I use a knife for. The 0200 is a better blade shape and if for some reason you use your knife to pry with, get the 0200.
 
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I have both as well and whilst I really love my 0350, I reach for the PM-2 over the 0350 almost every time. It is simply easier to carry and slices incredibly which is what I typically use a folder for.

If I need to do anything more than the PM-2 can cover then I reach for a fixed blade. Having the PM-2 in your pocket will not make you feel under-prepared in 9 out of 10 situations...

Ben
 
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