Questions about various models...

[Jeff/1911]

Folks,



I've been looking at the Spyderco products page for help in selecting the model of knife that I wish to purchase, and I've got a couple of questions I hope you Spydie enthusiasts can answer, if you care to speculate:



1) Why is the Endura stainless model only available in AUS 6 steel, when the lightweight Endura uses ATS-55? Or is this actually the case?



2) Is the three screw pocket clip mounting arrangement on the stainless model as durable as the recessed ambi stud used on the lightweight model?



3) I really am undecided about serrated vs plain edges...I have enjoyed using a serrated blade (Gerber Gator Serrator) but love the looks of a plain edge. And it would appear that the stainless endura is only available in either full serrated or full plain edge; not 50/50.



4) Finally; where can I find a picture of one of the Wayne Goddard style knives? I don't see it in the Spyderco product listing anywhere.



You see, I really like the looks (and probably would appreciate the added heft) of the stainless-handled endura with a plain edged blade. It looks so sleek...Anyway, if I have to "give up" ATS-55 steel (for AUS-6)and a stronger? pocket clip, and perhaps better cutting from a serrated blade, then I won't do that. Your thoughts?



Thanks for any guidance you can offer, Jeff/1911.

[Jeff/1911]

I found a picture of the Wayne Goddard lightweight. For some reason my browser doesn't show me the entire page 1 of the product listing; as I searched for "Wayne Goddard" and found this model and it said it was on page 1. Go figure, Jeff/1911.

Jeff/1911,
I've got both stainless Endura II and the lightweight and in my opinion, the 3 screw set up on the steel handle is more durable, but the lightweight can be ambi, so I guess it's just a case of what you want to compromise. The lightweight model can be carried comfortably with any clothing, but the heavier steelhandle model will hang/weigh down lighter clothes.
As far as AUS6 being inferior to ATS-55, I just don't see it. I know that you may be more sensitive/aware of the cutting performance of the different steels, but to me they both work fine. No, I don't do loads of heavy cutting several days a week, so I can't speak from that perspective, but for everyday chores and even as a dedicated defensive piece, I can't see the fuss between AUS6 and ATS-55.
I agree that the clean sleek look of the stainless is attractive, but the grip gets a bit slippery(but it feels alot stronger), the FRN is deep checkered for good grip and being black it doesn't 'flash for attention' to glancers by. I choose which to carry by what I'm wearing for that particular day/activity. The Wayne Goddard is an excellent lightweight IMO, the grip is very secure and I think it looks good as well.

Ken

Edited by - KenN on 3/27/2001 8:52:32 AM

[Jeff/1911]

KenN - You have answered my questions very thoroughly and quickly, thank you.

I am interested in how easy the knife is to carry day-to-day, as this is what I'll be doing - in the right front pocket of my jeans mostly. Good point about lighter clothing though...this is certainly a consideration with summer coming and my desire for this to be an "always" knife. Defensive use is an important usage consideration for me, by the way.

Do you think that the shiny, stainless handled knife is likely to inadvertently slip from the pocket more easily than the FRN model? You see, I really like the lightweight model, however it feels a little too light for my liking... I know it's a matter of perception, but it doesn't feel too strong, although I'm sure it is.

I'm quite certain I'd be delighted with the lightweight model, and it's bound to be more practical, overall.

So, which blade edge style do your knives have? What are your thoughts on the serrated vs plain edge issue?

Thanks again, Jeff/1911.

[Tom Percy]

While the stainless handled knives are somewhat heavier, I wear mine in the waist band of my lighter clothes. I find this works quite effectively, and the view of the top of the handle can be somewhat diminished by whatever shirt/jacket you are waring at the time.

Personally, I don't think you can go wrong with the Endura blade design. It works great for a lot of applications.

[v34]

I know this is Heresey but I stand by my convictions and as the owner of 14 spydercos-Have you tried the Benchmade AFCK? As a carry knife with 50/50 serrations in ATS34 it is the one I return to time after time. The best hole bladed knife Spyderco never made.

Jeff/1911,
On the slipping out of pocket point, I'd say that the weight of the piece will help a bit to keep it in place IMO. On the other hand, the checkering of the FRN offers plenty bite to keep it place. For an all occation/activity/weather model, I'd suggest the lightweight Endura.
I prefer the plainedge on all my blades unless they only come serrated. I feel like I've got greater sensitivity to the friction of the cut. I do realize that there is a need for serrated edges in many applications, but I find the plain edge satisfies pretty much all my needs.

Ken

[Jeff/1911]

KenM - Thanks again for your counsel, and the benefit of your experience.

I too prefer plain edged blades, in general. I think would much prefer the stainless steel handled model for heft, appearance and, well...fun. So I think I'll probably buy one of these; at least first. If I find that it's not quite as practical as I might like then I guess I'll have to get a lightweight as well. There, problem solved.

That's not what you did, by any chance is it?

Jeff/1911.

Actually, my first Endura was the original plastic clip lightweight model about 10 yrs. ago, which I carried for a few years(even though I bought many other knives in that time). I found it was too convenient/practical not to have with me all the time. The stainless model was a fairly recent addition.

Ken

[vampyrewolf]

I use all 3(plain, 50/50, serrated) daily...
My delica(FRN) is plainedge, had it for nearly 2 yrs, best knife I've own yet...
My ladybug is 50/50, sheeple freindly, use it at school... had it for about 1 month
My Cricket(almite) is fully serrated, has some heft... had it for 1 week(as of today).

I carry my cricket on my belt, cliped by the side belt loop. My Delica is clipped in my pocket, my ladybug is loose in my pocket(left), or in my jacket. With the 2 multi-tools on my bet, the cricket helps me not to have them slide off when I undo my belt. I only carry 5 knives on me...

-Delica(FRN, plain) clipped in pocket
-Cricket(almite, serrated) cliiped to belt
-ladybug(50/50) loose
-BreakdownBuddy multi-tool in back of belt.
-(Piece o' C***) multi-tool on belt(tweezers, scissors, nail file, small pliers, small blade).

I'm lighter in my shorts...

[Jeff/1911]

KenN - Sorry I called you "KenM". I think that maybe I should buy an Endura lightweight to start with too. Pretty ding-danged practical. Thanks again, Jeff/1911.

[Jeff/1911]

Ok, this is the thing re: edges with me.

I really like a plain edge, for looks and "simplicity", but I have used serrated blades with fabulous results and don't wish to pass up on the "SpyderEdge" if it is really something special...I mean, does it do justice to a Spyderco knife to have it without this excellent feature? I know that some of you have already answered this by saying that you like the plain edged knives...forgive my insistence.

Jeff/1911.