$50 EDC Knife Challenge Part 1: Between Two Knives

Tell us what you would pick as an EDC under $50
CIVIVI Badlands Vagabond: kcoti.com/2Wbu3eM
KA-BAR Dozier Folding Hunter: kcoti.com/3D43qcQ
In this first installment of our new series, David and Seth check in on the two knives they’ve picked to be their only EDC folder for 30 days. We’re talking EDC tasks, edge maintenance, pocket ergonomics, and handle comfort.
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[@michaeljames6821]

At the end of your 30 days you all should trade and do another 30 days with the same 2 knives to see how much you like our dislike or miss the other knife

[@davidgiles9751]

Agreed!

[@stevek4438]

I took a knife to my wedding but the mother in law still made me go through with it

[@vicmatesi1472]

Or switch at the 2 week point

[@jonrost5574]

Absolutely!

[@fernandofolgueira5191]

Excellent idea

[@rofferdal]

I actually got the Civivi Badlands Vagabond after this. A great, inexpensive knife, which means you don't worry much about it and can use it for everything. I had to sharpen mine initially, since I found the factory sharpening less than razor sharp, but it seems to hold the edge very well. I love the feel of the handle on this. Good size and rounded. Just feels good in the hand.

[@7ali7]

I remember when y'all were so excited for 100k subs and it doesn't feel long ago at all. Now you're at 146k! Wanna know why? Consistent excellence. Keep it up boys and girls.

[@waynesiminski8268]

I own multiple Civivi knives amongst my somewhat vast collection. None of them really ever gave me anything to complain about at their price point.

[@markjohnson1020]

I carry that Vagabond everyday since it was first released. Has not let me down in any way in my everyday needs.

[@DullPoints]

I didn't think I would, but I love this new segment! To hear such in depth, thoughtful opinions from you two has really shown how great these budget options are.

[@ROE1300]

👍 Good idea for a series. For a decade I carried the $40.00 Victorinox Huntsman SAK. For the last 45-60 days I have switched to the $70.00 Rough Ryder Reserve Common Stock knife simply because I wanted to. Neither knife is lacking in what I need in an EDC knife. In fact, the Victorinox served quite well at camping and fishing knife tasks. While I have only carried it in town I suspect the RRR will also function quite well at camping, fishing, and bird hunting knife tasks. Having said all that when I want to bring out the big gun in folding knives for any task nothing beats the Buck 110. All my 110s are the original style with brass and wood. All were under $50.00 when I purchased them.

[@megacab]

I love where the reserve series is taking RR.

[@unknownartist47]

The wear on the blade coating on the dozier give the knife more character and make it more interesting. Giving the knife a personal history.👍✌️

[@jaimeleondelaparra3877]

Although no longer available, the Buck Vantage Select has always been, and still is, my budget EDC folder. Not only has it been used for situations where I could possibly lose my more expensive folder, it is a lighter and simpler blade to carry daily for my intended purposes. I have gifted this Buck 345 many times over through the years.

[@ericvortecmax]

I agree. I have one as well.

[@NinjaHikage]

My 1 favorite EDC under $50 is the RAT2 in D2

[@1980JPA]

Mine too. It's my most often carried. Main work knife. Brass scales with acid washed bade. Ordering the m390 blade from Wayofknife

[@jimgriffin3623]

A few minutes into the video, I felt compelled to switch out my Para 3 lightweight for my sub $50 EDC- my Buck 110 Slim Select. It does pretty much anything I want for cheap and it's even an American.

[@gaberoo9099]

How do you like that Buck 110?

[@jimgriffin3623]

@@gaberoo9099 I like it a lot. I have one or two folders that I carry more, but they both cost a lot more. I also have folders that I carry a lot less that cost a lot more. The handle is thin in the pocket but comfortable in the hand; the deep carry pocket clip is secure but it is also comfortable. The blade is easy to sharpen and I like the profile. Not much to complain about on this knife.

[@gaberoo9099]

@@jimgriffin3623 Will have to eventually get one. I recently bought the RAT 2 and was really surprised at how smooth the action is and how easy it is to sharpen (takes on a great edge), so want to get the RAT1. So the Buck 110 will be on my list. Thanks!

[@TacoCrisma]

That kabar was my first decent pocket knife and even though I own much more expensive knives - it’s still my favorite one. I absolutely love it.

[@havoc1zero]

I have the badlands vagabond in carbon fiber with a damascus blade. Pretty nice as a gentlemen’s knife.

[@knifeguy9134]

Happy National Knife Days guys! Love the video. Wish I could come meet y’all one day!

[@artemkanarchist]

Oredered meself a Ka-Bar Dozier in D2 from you guys about 2 weeks ago - really happy to hear Seth talk about his experience with the knife. Thanks for your work!

[@radishfox308]

How do you like it? Is the pocket clip strong? I recently bought a Sterling Cutjack mini and hated it because the clip was so weak bent really easily

[@kevinstryker6440]

Dca & Seth, if you two could do another "between two knifes" segment, can you do a $100 max gentleman's knife? I would love to hear how it would work using a gents knife as an EDC for a month. Thank you for the videos, I love the content.

[@etherealicer]

Can we get details on Seth's kitchen-sink-stone holder? That looks like a great setup.

[@HammerSmashedFace92]

Just search for whetstone sink holder bridge. Something like that. You'll get results

[@jock-of-ages73]

A piece of 4"×1" cut so it fits length ways, then add a pair of little blocks nailed down to sit your stone in. There's videos showing how to make one, it isn't hard even for a novice.

[@incontinentiabuttocks5271]

The kershaw blur is another really good cheap edc.

[@GavinWhyman]

** UK Edition ** Keeping it UK legal ('cos that's where I'm from) means an under 3" cutting edge, and non-locking. $50 is about £36.42. But your prices don't include any sales tax (right?) so add 20% vat gives me a total of just over £43.70 to keep equivalent. So for me, the best UK sub-$50 EDC is the Maserin Scout. If you'll let me round up to £43.95 (what's 25p between friends) in micarta. If not with an Olive wood handle for £41.95. Probably not the choice of many on here, but slim pickings at this price in the UK.

[@ashleycarey3190]

I'm from the UK and would pick the heinnie Haines edition crkt pilar great knife they also have loads of different UK friendly carry

[@GavinWhyman]

@@ashleycarey3190 Hi Ashley. Agree, and have one 😀. The Pilar normally sits in my coin pocket. Love the shape and flexibility. Although I do carry it almost every day, I'm just not sure I'd want as my only knife. This gets the nod because of the steel (I prefer D2 to 8Cr13) and having a longer cutting edge. You're right though. The UK Pilar is an awesome UK friendly knife 👍

[@ashleycarey3190]

@@GavinWhyman understandable I wouldn't want it as my only knife however for a tad over £50 you can get the HH spyderco tenacious that I would happily edc and my 1 and done knife

[@GavinWhyman]

@@ashleycarey3190 oh thanks, will check that out!! Just picked up the UKPK and really enjoying that. But we all know the correct number of knives is n+1 😂

[@euphoniumguy5smith]

This is a great challenge and is thought-provoking. If I were to narrow down my choice of $50ish dollar knives, I would choose the QSP Penguin with brass scales, Civivi Riffle, or QSP Hawk with blue micarta and 14c28n steel.

[@BSavage83]

I’m digging this new series, keep it going Gents👏👏

[@MountainFisher]

I'm surprised no one chose a knife of 14C28N. I bought an inexpensive Bear Ops Bear Swipe lll in Sandvik 14C28N and man it holds an edge very well and it takes a thin 15 degree edge without chipping or folding over because it is a tough steel as tested by Knife Steel Nerds.

[@MrJakedog104]

Carrying one knife for a long time gives you a much better idea of what the knife is capable of, what it does well, and what it struggles with. You get a better idea of what you like in a knife. I like to treat my knives like they're issued equipment. I wake up everyday and grab it. I learn how to best utilize it, because I can't just get a different one. I own 2 ZTs and each one has at least a year of carry on it. Last year I designed a fixed blade and had a maker make it for me. I've been carrying that for a year and a half now. Now when I look at new knives online, I can appreciate them, but if I can't see it kicking my current knife out of my pocket, or I don't have a specialized use for it, I don't buy it.

[@unfi6798]

Hi Gentlemen! This would be one of the best presentation ever..! It's heading somewhere new & untouched, Reckon you both should keep this segment going cos it presents different individual view on a product. Great show guys.! Stay safe. Greetings from Australia.

[@jonhughes2488]

Hello DCA and Seth - we need a D2 sharpening video by Seth. I have tried to sharpen my Dozier D2 - it's a difficult task. Thank you guys!

[@mdubb4855]

I gave up and went to a professional sharpener.

[@TheBudgetguy_K.T]

Worksharp guided field sharpener 30 bucks for good diamond plates works great for D2 I keep my Benchmade Adamas razor sharp with it.

[@chrisreuther4546]

I’d love to see you both do this with a traditional with of your choice

[@maurolorenzotongco5521]

I would pick the Dozier D2 but both are good. Other strong solo

[@propblast82nd]

My primary edc is a Victorinox Farmer because it’s a jack of a trades .

[@bennyc409]

Great new segment guys! Having a third video to look forward to each week is a treat. An in depth conversation on various topics once a week is a terrific idea.

[@rickrhodes4788]

Buck 112 slim is a good contender and it is value priced for the quality. Nice review. Cheers from Texas.

[@marcvanheugten9472]

I have a victorinox alox bantam in my office trousers and the dosier in my bag. Best set-up and very budget friendly, both are well thought over at creation.

[@GrumpyGrunt]

My affordable folders would be the Spyderco Astute or the Cold Steel Finn Wolf, depending on the use.

[@BlueOx2277]

I’ve carried a Buck 110 slim select for the last two years, and it has never failed me. Last time I checked- these knives were just over $30 on Amazon. I run it over a worksharp guided field sharpener a couple times a week to keep the scary shaving sharp edge that lets me cut through five layer gaylord boxes like warm butter. The deep carry pocket clip on this knife is hands down the best I’ve ever used. Once a week I use compressed air to clean the pocket fuzzies outta the handle & pivot pin. I use a couple drops of WD40 on the lock and pivot pin. Hear me now & believe me later, DCA- I will carry my Buck 110 slim select till the day I die. And it will continue to serve me in the afterlife as well👍🏻👍🏻 PS: The KaBar Dozier is my backup knife, it gets the same weekly treatment as my Buck 110 and it too will accompany me into the afterlife👍🏻

[@ralphcanete8188]

I love this content please do a 30 day challenge every 30 days!!! I would love to see a bugout vs a para3. Thanks love the channel!!!

[@brandons9138]

This segment should be called knife fight.

[@agustinmolero5397]

Me encanta vuestro canal. Saludos desde Rubí, Barcelona, España.

[@MrSchizoid]

Love the new video! So glad you decided to make a segment with Seth it's own thing, and I'm really happy about what you guys are doing with this video. Really gets detailed without getting off topic 💯💯

[@garybakonis4540]

I think the Knifecenter exclusive Ontario Rat 1 in D2 and micarta would be a very viable choice. I'm waiting for mine to be delivered.

[@kanukkarhu]

If Kabar made a fixed blade version of their Dozier folder, in a decent steel, I'd want one for sure.

[@mdubb4855]

Someone was doing a lot of cutting to dull out D2 so quickly. So that coating isn’t Cerakote? I prefer the AUS8 version simply because it’s a proven steel with a lot of field valid from a reputable Japanese steel producer, and likewise the handle is a well known branded product, DuPont Zytel. Made in Taiwan seals the deal. Would have liked to see one more screw to hold the handle together, although the pocket clip bolt definitely adds extra strength.

[@billbush1270]

I carry an older red Dozier with the black painted blade pretty often. Cheapest thing I own, and completely satisfactory. Have been tempted to get a Vagabond, but my Elementum keeps telling me there is no need. I do tend to like bright colored knives because they are findable in the black pits of car consoles and luggage. Will probably pick up one of those blue Doziers. I do like this video's purpose. It gets to what to look for in daily use, as well as perspective on design and cost issues. The practicality on sharpening is also important.

[@sheltermonkey6065]

I love the Dozier, but I wish they would make more variants without the paint (or switch to a decent coating).

[@mattharvey968]

Civivi Nox is a great gentleman’s carry!

[@jock-of-ages73]

There can be only one! The stranger proclaimed to the crowd. All the EDC'rs laughed heartily!

[@RobBernhard]

I jumped on that KnifeCenter free shipping offer this week and picked up the Dozier as it's been on my wishlist for a while. Thanks DCA and Seth!

[@craigdemagall1165]

I use it for work inside an OR. Love it for price and performance. Going to buy another one for EDC .

[@onemikeb]

CJRB Ria or Small Feldspar

[@dougdottery1284]

My $50 or under knife would be one of my civivi knives and I have a whole drawer full to pick from.

[@jatbatman]

One of the three knives I carry regularly is the Civivi badlands vagabond in Damascus and carbon fiber. I love that knife.

[@MMD_-jx2yu]

Civivi ortis! or rat 2 in D2

[@JAMESGREGORYKULP1985]

My $50.00 Dollar or under pocket knife is the. KA-BAR 4062 Dozier AUS-8A Lockback pocket knife.

[@AbbaKovner-gg9zp]

that civivi is a sleek looking knife

[@Notzen238]

My first “real” knife was a Spyderco Cricket with the standard (non-serrated) blade. Since, I’ve gotten a Leek, a couple CRKTs, a couple Benchmades, and a Swiss Army Evolution, but I keep going back to the Cricket. It’s so small that I took off the pocket clip, so it weighs nothing, takes up nearly no space in my pocket, and it cuts up boxes, shipping bags, and string/cord with no problem and when I need to sharpen a pencil, it’s great. Deserves a lot more love as an EDC option. Definitely not my goto for camping or fishing but so handy for around the house stuff.

[@epone3488]

This is a great segment one Id like to see keep going as the long term reviews are really not common and its a great insight - I think feature knives and different price ranges to spice it up.

[@Ubermentsh]

Just received my A1x from you guys today. Even came a day early. Totally awesome, thanks✌️🙂👍

[@armandojuan64]

The Civivi Badlands Vagabond is my default pocket knife . I had the Elementum and after acquiring the BV , I gave the Elementum away ( to my brother ) .

[@kettchuk918]

I know you’re selling knives but my £3 Shrade I’ve used for the last 5 years cutting plants, tarp, plastic, rope and a big mixture of everything that can be cut and I’ve sharpened it once. $50 is extravagant;)

[@nicks931]

Great premise and good job. Looking forward to more. Thanks.

[@Tony.Tony.Tony.]

For $50 (sometimes $40), I'd go with the LAPG TBFK with the G10 and S35VN blade. It's an excellent value and it's not the end of the world if I lose it.

[@kbd13-n9c]

That is a pretty good looking knife for the $

[@husbandokelly]

By the way... Im a fan of this series. Good stuff.

[@BruceWillisiscool]

I bought a civivi brazen and I gotta say, its better than the benchmade bugout I used to own. I want a solid feel in my hand, not cheap plastic that flexes. Yeah the bugout has S30V but D2 is fine for what 99.999% of us use our knives for.

[@grim4954]

Ooooooo love this topic ! What knife would I carry for 30days under 50$ ? The Rat 1 at 20$ ! For my second choice ? Kershaw linx at 45$

[@keats27]

The knock on the civivi....that chinese liner lock....I'll break in and sharpen that D2 lock back thanks...

[@johnlabree6286]

Happy knife day guys. Would you guys consider doing an affordable knife video where the knives are made in Taiwan or Europe? No Chinese made knives for that video?

[@taifu13781]

That dozier in d2 is very enticing. Definitely in my wishlist. But since you guys got that exclusive rat1 with micarta scales...its kinda hard between the two to decide which next to purchase

[@gyffesme]

I have loved the Doziers for years, but I believe the RAT's a better overall design. Have both (in AUS-8) and think that RAT with micarta looks great.

[@drewryan3893]

“And on that bombshell”

[@knifedaddy5791]

Great vid! Thanks guys! You are a great team!

[@markd7811]

Agreed Excellent idea!

[@santi1045]

How about the Civivi Brazen?

[@Leftyotism]

Uhm uhm ... will there be more parts? I love the format!

[@dalestark3343]

Happy National Knife Day everyone!!!

[@turtlepurple9304]

Gerber flat iron. Is my edc knife

[@norsefalconer]

I know this is an older video. But, I think we as (Western World) consumers, need to STRONGLY consider country of origin. In the case of these two (fairly equal) knives, I would pick the Dozier simply because it's made in Taiwan vs China. There are so many things that are pretty much only sourced through China these days, that when there's a suitable alternatives, I believe we must consider those options first.

[@LTT.Official]

DCA: Strange not being able to choose which knife and stick to one. Me on Monday: PM2 it is. Me on Friday: PM2 it is.

[@andrewyeong-169ayc8]

If you have that $50 budget and only 1 knife to choose, why would you choose a single-blade folders like these instead of a Victorinox SAK with a large lockable blade. Even with only an extra tool e.g. the can opener or merely the tweezer&toothpick, would have given you the bang for your buck in terms of the number of functions you can do with your knife.

[@jeremyshackelford8080]

Nothing lame about dedicated dress knives. I knife fidget constantly and my upgraded Fox Dragotac friction folder doesn't clickety clack when I'm at church

[@miller8638]

I usually edc a begleiter, para 3 or brazen

[@Ericstraordinary]

For this challenge, I would go with my CJRB Feldspar.

[@nemo5335]

The KA-BAR would be WAY more appealing if they made it in a different color. Give us a black blade and it's good.

[@geico1975]

Man! I wished DCA had chosen the Zancudo Folding Knife 3" because I'll probably buy the Zancudo and KA-BAR Dozier, but deciding which one to pick-up first is hell:)

[@luckymeziere3675]

I would choose the buck 110 slim select or the buck 110 lt

[@freaku69]

i am a vagabond, couldnt be happier with my dozier. budget bugout( for those who need that concept)

[@lifeskillsdn]

Amazing small knives

[@paulronn38]

Once its broken in i think the bear ops rancor could be a good sub $50 solution. Its not a light weight but with s30v flipper blade and deep carry clip its a contender! Did i mention s30v blade??...

[@mcsquirgle]

the original crkt pilar comes in mind for one of the best one and done folders under 50 in my mind. that being said i have really enjoyed my rat 2 D2 with flytanium scales but that comes in over the 50 dollar price point by a bit

[@china_sickness7005]

I was contemplating getting that KaBar or an Ontario Rat 1 but then I saw the new Ontario Rat 1 with the micarta scales and I had to have it. It’s supposed to arrive tomorrow so I’m excited to get it.

[@mikerodriguez3132]

Good choice

[@Kilt_Camera_and_Carry]

For $50 that is a hard choice ... I would most likely carry my SAK or a CRKT Pilar in D2.

[@tygerfrodo]

Bugout vs Deka next 30!

[@AustinBachman]

Really can't beat the elementum for me

[@TahoeRealm]

Love the Dozier. I removed the clip. Just more comfortable to use without it.

[@66piperaztech]

Just guys talking about knives. 👍

[@krisalan5327]

Nothing better than some cardboard to go with your deer salami lol

[@hillbilly8391]

At he beginning I was not impressed with the segment. (I do hope you enjoyed the wedding) However, the further it continued, especially with Seth doing some honing on his whetstone, things began to come into focus. Do us 100k+ subscribers a favor and get out of your "studio".....really. Do a couple of shows in the woods, actually using your knives. Batoning, food prep and such. Give un a day of your daily life: opening mail and packaging, and looking for content for FAQ # 123. Please..

[@VFNova]

I carried a K.I.S.S. from C.R.K.T. for years and years.

[@bmljenny]

Video suggestion: get a bunch of smaller-handed guest testers to try out most comfortable EDC for small hands. I don't want to call it "EDC for the laydeez" but, basically... that.

[@theknifepub]

Even if its a lot smaller Overall I would always go for my "first real" pocketknife, the Spyderco Ambitious. Second Champ would be the crkt Squid

[@jamesbarry6248]

just got a kershaw highball, for 40 bucks in D2, QUITE IMPRESSED SO FAR.

[@try3791]

Yo guys. Can u do a poll about how many knives ppl carry at once ? Would be super interesting.

[@CadillacDriver]

It would? You'd get highly predictable answers. 99% carry 1, half a percent carry 2 and the rest will lie and say they carry 3 or more. Easy.

[@try3791]

@@CadillacDriver I dont think so actually. Way more ppl will carry 2.

[@CadillacDriver]

@@try3791 really? More than 1 in 200? I seriously doubt that from all my combined life experiences.

[@jb7707]

@@CadillacDriver possibly but we'd effectively be polling from a select population of "knife people". In which case I think theres a much higher % of multiple knife carriers.

[@CadillacDriver]

@@jb7707 yes we would, that is who I'm talking about. I still maintain my point that one in 200 would be about right.

[@MrFomhor]

Esee Rat 2 & Bestech Paladin?

[@jhh2001]

What adjustment did you make on the dozier to get it to “pop” open, mine is stiff as a board

[@gyffesme]

Wow. I think I'd've wanted the RAT-1 in there vs that Dozier. [edit: well, I was thinking AUS-8 vs AUS-8.. not as big a fan of the D2 Dozier..]

[@jamesharris1493]

Spyderco Tenacious would be my 50.00 dollar knife