KnifeCenter FAQ #20: EDC Knife Upgrades?

[@MycoMatty]

2021 is going to be the year of the fixed blade! Love that little Sea Snake saw one on IG a day or two ago and went looking for them. Super nice! Thanks D.C.A!!

[@BC-ec5sj]

Mr. Andersen. I know, the Matrix, I love to say your name as Agent Smith, we all love it. I really like your KnifeCenter videos. They kick the crap out of your competitors' videos. All your competitors do is say here is a knife, looks cool as they check their social media, give "shout outs" and have no real substance or review of the knife. I am always watching, thanks. Late.

[@knifecenter]

Thanks for the kind words BC! -DCA

[@theoneandonlysoslappy]

I'm so glad that I watched this video even though I am not looking for an "EDC knife upgrade!" What I am interested in are unique locking mechanisms. Though my collection already includes a few button-actuated liner locks and alternately-actuated lock backs, I was able to discover three (!) new versions I had no idea existed. Thanks, David.

[@IvIidnight]

It really is amazing watching you take one word out of a question and zero in on it, ignoring everything else in the question and just be completely off.

[@alexeski4109]

For the guy who wanted to upgrade his Spartan, get an Emerson super commander or the knight elements v2 folding kukri! They are slightly smaller, but over 4 inch blades and both are so awesome.

[@michaelknott4895]

I would say to the person who wanted an upgrade to the spartan to look at the resurrected talwar coming soon from cold steel. The talwar is definitely a similar sized knife with upgraded materials.

[@MycoMatty]

I thought Cold Steel was just sold no? Are they keeping up with production? People in the group were talking like they were done and over. I’d love to get my hands on a newer Talwar!!

[@ChrisWolf75]

Matthew King the new 2021 line up for cold steel looks great. I guess the company that bought it from Lynn decided to listen to the fans after all and keep all the old favorites and even bring back a few popular discontinued models from the past. I'm less worried now about the future of cold steel then I was a few weeks ago that's for sure.

[@Jaybird165]

Cold Steel is far from over! The group that bought them has big money and they are looking to build Cold Steel into a bigger and more dominant company! They are already looking to bring back some discontinued models to show good faith to the loyal followers of the company!

[@jaystavros7177]

@@ChrisWolf75 they purchased cold steel after Lynn had ironed out the 2021 lineup. We have to wait until 2022/23 to really see where gsm will take cold steel. These were already in the works when they made the deal.

[@ChrisWolf75]

Jay Stavros I didn't realize that. Now you got me nervous again 😆

[@charlescollier7217]

Thank you, Mr. Andersen. I recommend as an upgrade, CS Spartan --> CS Large Espada. Just as bold, but with better materials and a more polished look (literally). A workhorse AND a conversation starter. Less ostentatious and smaller in blade size, but definitely an upgrade with the ergos that work, would be the AD10.

[@megacab]

I need to know when the ad15 lite is coming from cold steel. Jimislash had leaked photos of cold steels 2021 releases. Super excited

[@hermespino9985]

They weren't leaked. CS posted them on their FB

[@bawidamann939]

Me too, im very excited of the Talwar xl and the hold out 6 inch 😱😱

[@megacab]

@@hermespino9985 oh I'm sorry, I misunderstood. Makes me happy that it's completely legit.

[@megacab]

@@bawidamann939 talwar xl! Yes!!!

[@03_austindrake88]

DCA always does such a great job with the Knife Center videos.

[@jonathangodsey5460]

For the guy looking to upgrade the CS Spartan, I would suggest checking out Citadel Knives, they make some beautiful folding kukuris.

[@yoryteperman429]

kukureku, hey? But it aint's a rooster, it's a knife, and it is called kukri (not kukuri, with the strong emphasis on the first "u"). I own two of those - one with buffalo horn handle and one with wood (I think, Mahogany) handle, and I will be selling both of them shortly on eBay - they are just too huge for my own liking. FYI - citadel does not make those anymore - they now make a smaller 3" bladed version. The version that I own are about 10" overall length with about 5" long bade. They are also at least 8oz in weight (if not more) and with 7/8" thick handles... Let me know if you want to buy those. Cheers!

[@Treyzusaur]

I would’ve said that a good alternative for the minimalist would be an esee izula or izula 2. Edit- or the candiru. All suggestions with the micarta scales.

[@billyhooks99]

Love the Artisan Cutlery Sea Snake 🤩🤩

[@CrazySharp]

I’m glad

[@billyhooks99]

Finally got one ordered.

[@janjimpson240]

A good upgrade with horizontal carry for the minimalist is a bradford guardian 3. Comes is several blade shapes with N690, and another steel i think. Goes for 110 ish and comes with a leather sheath. Can upgrade to kydex if desired

[@synystur21]

Ordered the KnifeCenter exclusive CJRB Crag and joined the reward program. Started watching and subbed to your channel a couple weeks ago, love the content and the website, looking forward to watching/ordering future content(s).

[@matthewadler1329]

I'm not gonna claim that the Spartan is the best Cold Steel knife. There are a bunch of great ones, but the size makes is much more poketable than some of the others. Between the pocket deployment, the hollow grind with a recurve, handle shape, and very capable tip, It has remained my go to blade if I am going to be in a potentially unsafe situation. I sometime do work in rough areas of Chicago, but having that guy with me allows me to relax a bit and focus on work. I pray I never need it, but I haven't come across anything I like better at any price. Its just an amazing knife at a knockout price.

[@korgan7779]

Recommendation for 04 Hemi would be a BK11 or Becker Necker as it's called. Runs around $45 to 55 and is 1095 steel. With the leftover budget you can buy Handle scales or DIY which I did. You can scout carry it by adding straps to the sheath, which is what I did. For Matthias Stevens: Quality and staying in the Buck line would be the Tops/Buck CSAR-T Responder. Major difference is the cost compared to the Redpoint with it currently on Knifecenter for 129.99.

[@drewmitchell3877]

An upgraded Spartan for me was a micro tech DOC 🤙🏻🍻

[@viniciuseleo]

Upgraded Spartan = Colossus

[@Jaybird165]

Now that’s a blade!

[@aschroederqli]

I'm a very HUGE Cold Steel fan, I just wish that you guys would say more on Cold Steel knives BECAUSE I am such a big fan of their knives & other products. Mostly because they have a lifetime warranty on all of their products.

[@sirpentor9611]

If that Artisan sea snake had micarta scales and a leather sheath I'd be all over it. Make the exclusive happen please.

[@bildo508]

That MKM fork is perfect 👌 for the holidays, when you pass the olive platter!

[@celebral_pelosi]

One could consider the fancier xl Espadas as an alternative for the spartan

[@andreasplesko1543]

For the Cold Steel Spartan I would suggest the Knight Elements V2 Ultra Kukri . A little smaller but a great knife.

[@GrumpyGrunt]

The first thing I thought of when I saw the Spartan again was the Fox/FKMD Meskwaki Tracker Folder or their Anso Flipper or Mojo, for a smaller, classier version. Maybe something like the Spyderco Yojumbo would work? I just got my OD green Sea Snake this week from you guys. Haven't gotten a chance to put it to work yet, but it feels nice in-hand. Thank you, DCA, Thomas and the KC crew. Stay well.

[@joesmulti-edc890]

Hey DCA! Love knifecenterdotcom and always look forward to your videos. My homework assignment/ question for you is- can you show us knifecenters selection of multi-tool knives. I'll make it slightly more clear, knives that have multi-purpose functions. I loved the Opinels that you showed off a few videos ago and purchased them both. Thanks brother!

[@yoryteperman429]

A comment about DPx - I recognized it: - the elaborate milling on the handle, the deep-carry pocket clip with glass braker, the steel insert into frame lock held by two vertical screws, the super-thick blade stock - it all reminded me a lot of my old Lionsteel SR1 that I used to own years ago (the very first, integral titanium-handled version), and, when I looked-up your DPx description, it spells in there that the knife is made by Lionsteel in Italy! I am not sure if DPx is a brand of Lionsteel, or if they used Lionsteel as their manufacturer, but, because so many design elements present in this knife are legacy details of Lionsteel, I am tempted to conclude that the former is the case. I wonder what happened to the Lionsteel's brand, and why DPx is not really marketed as Lionsteel, despite of knowing that everyone who ever owned SR1 would immediately make the connection...

[@knifecenter]

DPx works with a few different manufacturers to produce his (Robert Young Pelton) designs - LionSteel, Southern Grind, and Rowen. -DCA

[@yoryteperman429]

@@knifecenter thank you for clarifying!

[@demo2952]

Also the serrated cricket is the best spyderco edc. Vg-10 is notorious for broken tips and chipping

[@shino8854]

Love the Spartan, takes out chunks of wood, and for a combat knife, very intimidating and with the upturned rear end hard for anyone to take the knife off you. Looks super cool to pick your teeth with also.

[@garrettferrell6821]

A good upgrade for the Ambitious would be a Dragonfly 2 or a Domino...a good upgrade for the Minimalist would be a Bradford Guardian 3 or 3.5,I EDC a Bradford Guardian 3 and it is the best EDC fixed blade I’ve ever owned

[@PaulWilliam9]

The Medford praetorian scout is a big upgrade and one knife that will make the cold steel look whimpy.

[@armenarakelian9876]

I might have to pick up that DPX Heat 😍

[@Moosehound597]

So much better than the hipsters at blade hq. Keep it up, love the show, thank you!

[@TheGunf1ghter]

For the upgrade to the minimalist. That artisan cutlery does seam like a good choice, but a couple other really good options. (other than the izula) I really like my white river backpacker. Also the L.T. Write patriot seems like a good edc belt knife in that price range.

[@dieseldabz7104]

Those DPx Heat's have been catching my attention lately and I've been considering buying my 1st...

[@283blood]

For the Spartan, Tactical Elements Knight Kukri, identical blade profile, and more usable handle.

[@AnonAnon-qi4ts]

Spartan----> 4Max

[@israposeidon8164]

Or colossus

[@maxrez74]

4 max is much much more expensive. an SR1 is less expensive but more premium than the spartan but both are 4 in and the spartan is 4.5 in blade

[@SergioMartinez-xv9tt]

@@maxrez74 it can also be the 4 max scout

[@AnonAnon-qi4ts]

@@maxrez74 I'm just sayin, you can't recommend a frame lock to replace a triad and the "upgrade" triad knife is the 4-Max

[@maxrez74]

@@AnonAnon-qi4ts i didn’t recommend the 4 max. OP did

[@RobertOrtiz1015]

Another option maybe to victorianox is the Leatherman SKELETOOL® CX comes with 154cm steel blade

[@markfcoble]

Thanks! I am not addicted to knives. Do not look behind the curtain. Edc carry leatherman skeltool.

[@garrettferrell6821]

I couldn’t even fathom using a Cold Steel Spartan as a EDC knife..don’t get me wrong,it’s an awesome knife that I wouldn’t mind at all to be able to regularly pull out of my pocket but I carry so much shit in my pockets,it would be a real struggle to carry a knife that big..I do good carrying my Paramilitary 2,Autonomy 2,0562,0452,Bareknuckle,Link,etc..between my phone,my keys,my cigarettes,my lighter,my EDC pen,my EDC flashlight,my wallet,my EDC gun and pocket change,I really don’t have much room for a big knife....I need to get me a cool custom leather or kydex holster/pouch to hold my pen and flashlight..lord knows I would never carry my Leatherman if it weren’t for the leather belt pouch.I would love to be able to move a few more items out of my pockets and onto my belt..then maybe I could comfortably carry a Cold Steel knife that is bigger than my beloved American Lawman

[@yoryteperman429]

My advice regarding possible GoldSteel upgrades may not be to everyone's liking, and, certainly, Mr. A in the video above cannot voice it out of professional courtesy (though he seem to be implying it nonetheless), but here it is: - there are two possible upgrade paths to GoldSteel: - a more expensive one involves investment in a proper course of psychological counselling; A cheaper path is also a more 'natural' one - simply to grow up, and get interested in 'grown-up' knives, of which there were plenty on the table, starting with DPx... (and, yes, DPx makes larger folders too, though, again, those are also more 'grown-up' in terms of price...) Cheers!

[@demo2952]

The spartan is great! I carry that or a ti-lite 4 s35 version in the right pocket at a cts-xhp broken skull in my left pocket. I sanded off the dlc to a mirror finish so no stupid steve austin ads

[@gmotionedc5412]

Swiss army really needs to listen and get with the trends.

[@TBEDC]

Really awesome vids man..very informative..great job👍🏽

[@giannispapadopoulos6603]

Being a Greek and listening to a greek named knife compared to a kukri....Nepalese started making those after British jeep springs after the 50s while HISTORICALLY PROOVEN the kopis shape of the spartan sword is a bit older.just a bit...would find it fair to call the shape kopis as it deserves.historical proof can be found easily online.sorry for the long comment.always great mr Anderson!!!

[@crewgadjy]

Another option fot the Sparten is possibly a custom grip and refinished blade. Imagine it with a black blade and a G!0 Grip. Or maybe a polished blade wikth Stainless Bolsters and Micarta Handle?

[@lonetrader1]

That Spartan I'd say he should check the viper knives mega! For sure

[@spydercoslacker7466]

The spyderco subvert is a good option for an upgraded Spartan, recurve kukri blade shape, s30v, and pretty large.

[@camdennorris5696]

My question is, I love the Razel knives by crkt and the blade shape they come with, for what I do in my job they get used well and hard, is there any folding knife that may be similar enough to the razle edge, but more sturdy/ more expensive? I have a benchmade bailout as well, but the right angle edge on the razels are just so much better.

[@davidgriffin3202]

The Spartan question. Carry two!

[@gizmocarr3093]

Have you ever tried carrying a traditional style folding knife as an EDC? If so; what one would you recommend for traditional knife user to consider giving a try?

[@allengoe3605]

Hey David, keep up the great work. Can you talk about some good options for edge maintenance on both folders and kitchen blades? Strop, hone, etc. Thanks! 🤘

[@mattbarnes8970]

David, great videos. Can you showcase slim knives? The CRKT CEO is not really to my liking but I’m interested in a slim profile knife. Thanks.

[@japv9299]

Hey David love the series. Can you recomend me a small fixed blade that can fit on an Altoids tin? For a small survival kit.

[@cesaravila739]

Mini bug out by bench made

[@trageopar]

Minimalist

[@williamperron760]

Hello, question for one of the next FAQ: What do you recommend for a small hiking/backpacking fixed blade knife? I am looking for: - around 3 inch blade - stainless/corrosion resistant - has sheath that can be attached to a backpack strap Thanks in advance

[@knifecenter]

White River Backpacker with a Tek-Lock: kcoti.com/3sJK2Nh

[@williamperron760]

@@knifecenter thank you!

[@_MiMo_]

Spartan------------Kizer Nick Matanzas Recurve Framelock or Kizer Darrel Ralph Gunhammer Radian Recurve.

[@WhstlblwrBlastingEpsteinsILK]

I ordered the OD Green Sea Snake from Amazon. I wanted to order it from Knife Center but KC only has the black. I was watching Mike Elmers channel and told him I loved my CRKT SPEW & my Mora Bushcraft and wanted to pay him to sharpen them. As a military/Navy brat I said I wanted to support his Veteran owned Crazy Sharp sharpening business. Mike told me to check out the Sea Snake. I had no idea he designed it. I don't like supporting the mega billions a year businesses like Bezos at Amazon. I prefer to support smaller companies like KC or whatever. I have a huge wishlist on my KC account & will be treating myself once I learn how to care for & maintain my knives.

[@shortyxmoshpigx5488]

who uses tekloks? iwb soft loops wrapped around the sheath keep the knife closer to the belt, are less bulky and keep a very small amount of flex, which enhances comfort. if you want horizontal carry of a fixed blade: discreet carry concepts clips!

[@CrazySharp]

That’s what I use on my prototype sea snake

[@johnwest4492]

Sure, the Gerber Strong-arm great carry :))

[@scotmetcalf2745]

You sold me on the artisan sea snake! Give it whirl just ordered threw y’all! I’ll have to play around with carrying it going to try Ulticlip or a tec-Lok or M-Lok. Great content and you look tired my friend?

[@CrazySharp]

I’m glad you like it at first blush… I designed it to be carried with soft loops

[@heatherhefner4408]

Great job Dave!

[@erichempel6172]

DCA-This series is great. Thanks for keeping great content coming. What are your thoughts for office edc fixed blades? I was looking at the ferrum forge lackey, but can't make the sheath work in my office environment. Looking for something similar with a pocket slip or sheath with a clip, or source for same. US made options always a plus.

[@frankiejdwm_edc1037]

How about the Spyderco Subvert for an upgrade to the Spartan. Not quite as big but still over 4" with S30V which is def nicer than AUS10 and it's a Ti liner/frame lock (they are some thick ass liners, thicker than the scales on some frame locks) 💥👊💥

[@edgarvargas7553]

Hi David, i'm curious about the metal BD1N what is it comparable too and what EDC knife would you recommend with this steel? Great job with this youtube show, I look forward to it every week. Continued good luck to you.

[@anthonybates4245]

The new strata xl might be a fair upgrade to the CS Spartan

[@kampferlin2079]

I been carrying an Espada XL for two years, what upgrade could I get?

[@ChrisWolf75]

Seriously where could you go from the Espada Xl other then carrying an actual sword as part of your edc 🤷‍♂️😆There are obviously other big folders but just none that hit that "crazy" level quite like the Espada XL.

[@NickBrakattack]

Agree with all the sentiments, this is a great series.

[@montycasper4300]

Only thing wrong with the CS Spartan is the disproportionately small pocket clip, always worry it'll work its way out of my pocket.

[@Enes-wj5xq]

Cold Steel make great tough knives

[@syvx]

Hello, you have a great show. I learn a great deal from all your episodes. As most persons interested in knives, I am an outdoor type person. I like to go spear fishing in shallow water (up to 10 feet deep) and use a knife to cut myself out of the occasional fish net I might encounter as well as dispatching a large fish to avoid it from it from swimming into me with a spear sticking out of its body, not to mention filleting the fish to eat them afterward. I always use gloves and in an environment where there is alot of coral reef rocks, caverns and labyrinths where the fish are located. Can you suggest some good knives to use? What shapes knives are recommended, and type of steels are good for this use. I currently use a tanto N690 knife. I see other knives with 440C stainless as well as titanium steel. Also, are folding knives usable for diving? I appreciate your expert advice. Thanks

[@ulrik1573]

I bought the Böker Plus Gulo Pro after you recommended it in two different videos and I have to agree with you, the engineering and manufacturing gives it a special feel. But what could be the next step? Is it to pay $600 for a Sebenza or is there something else? I am more interested in superior engineering than paying for supersteels, carbon fiber and mother of pearl inlays...

[@knifecenter]

Glad you are enjoying the Gulo! For the next step I like the LionSteel titanium integrals - SR-1/SR-11 and SR-2/SR-22: kcoti.com/3iwnEC7

[@readyme]

What are some options for an upgrade to the Rat 1 and/or Rat 2? Thumb stud deployment, liner lock and bronze washers. Thanks

[@MrFomhor]

A couple of suggestions for upgrading from the CS Spartan: FKMD (Fox) Anunnaki, FKMD Aruru, Kizer Compadre.

[@demo2952]

The Knight v.2 khukri folder by fox is the same size as the spartan

[@imperialexecutioner]

Do folks think a Kizer Sheepdog XL with carbon fiber handles would be a good upgrade to the Cold Steel Spartan? I love the Sheepdog XL. Tears through cardboard like its going out of style.

[@fredf9562]

What would you recommend as the.best "denim fifth pocket" folding knives for EDC? Best being useful and efficient when deployed. Premium or budget.

[@Txchickensnake]

Think for that spartan upgrade and real Emerson . Don’t remember which model has the recurved blade.

[@cliffguthrie7530]

Good recommendation! Emerson Commander, Patriot and cqc15 sport recurve blades.

[@Lordschaft1313]

Awesome Video. Please more from this Serie

[@johngibson9556]

Hi David, I carry a buck vantage pro. I really like feel of that knife and I’m looking for one similar

[@BS-tw5yf]

All right so here I have a question! Is there a locking folder in existence that has a 4-in handle and a 2.5-in blade?

[@JakeSmith-ps4vr]

I use my benchmade 630 skirmish as a size comparison. (The recurve)

[@JakeSmith-ps4vr]

Obviously way more expensive. But I came by at a bargain I couldn't pass.

[@michaelq8892]

Love the Spartan, it has been a great camp knife and I have carried it in some iffy places so I am really a fan...BUT,,,the ambidextrous flat opener has a screw and that screw is made of pot metal or tinfoil and it breaks,,,got one stuck in the little hole can't get it out except by drilling so my camp knife has to change...300 plus for a knife will see me explaining just why I spent the money on a knife...she thinks kitchen knives are all we need...what do you have that is under a hundred and has the same chopping ability...?

[@JustGorilla]

I understand why there is a premium on integral folders, but how do you clean/maintain them? I have a LionSteel Thrill and have no idea how to do basic maintenance on it. There’s a real chance I’ll end up on the floor in the fetal positing just trying to lube the pivot.

[@tipandachris7814]

Hey David. I love watching your videos. What are the last five folding knives you bought? I know you like the fixed blades, but as far as folding knives, what catches the eye of the legend David C. Andersen?

[@lanedexter6303]

For most of two decades my EDC has been the Al Mar SERE 2000. I like pretty much everything about it. My EDC is used HARD, even a bit of prying and hammering. Is there anything that is actually an upgrade from this knife (I gather Al Mar has gone Chinese, so I’m looking elsewhere)? Thanks.

[@darrenbowley6342]

Hi DCA, I am looking for a sheapsfoot, slip joint or similar opening action with a pocket clip (must have). Around 50-75mm blade would be ideal. Flexible on scales. Budget max $200 USD. Prefer USA made.

[@eugenesukh226]

Hi David, while WE Kitefin is out of stock, can you recommend a similar titanium frame lock flipper with premium steel and blade thickness under 3mm and similar price range? Bonus points for grip that is good in wet conditions.

[@nathanodle8039]

Question-What is the best work knife under $100 (That is not a spider co or civivi and not assisted) Preferably a drop point or clip point with ball bearings in the pivot, Not a big deal but I would also like thumb studs

[@shino8854]

No folder should be a work knife, unless you are only cutting cardboard and tie wraps. For $100 get yourself a Mora Garberg, more than enough knife for hard use.

[@CrazySharp]

Oh wow my sea snake design is on the table

[@knifecenter]

Nicely designed sir! -DCA

[@nickmartino2839]

Hello David id love to reply to scoobs question ...... idk if you've ever heard of Jason knight but he's making some amazing folding kukris right now

[@cesarcano9584]

For that Spartan he should look at the SOG kiku XR...

[@davidbock1801]

David to David (for the FAQ): I have about 40 knives (roughly 20 fixed blades and 20 folders). Do I have a problem?

[@richardhenry1969]

How do you up grade a spartan other then another coldsteel. Because anything else is a down grade in lock strength. But if I had to upgrade I'd go with the talwar

[@Ozone077]

Victorinox -> Extrema Ratio M1A1, Otter Mercator Multi

[@chrisc0485]

Can in use the upgraded bronze washers, for the crkt pilar and squid, on the crkt thero?

[@westfromthewest]

Get a 4max or a rajah 1

[@usernameshidds]

Any suggestions for non-spydercos that are good for a middle finger flick? I like the opening method but don't just want spydercos only Thanks!

[@rabadabadoo491]

Scottish - ma haunds ur a wee bit bigger than maist ither folks.

[@andrewjohnson1286]

Hey D.C. im left handed and am in the market for a fixed blade smaller, i love the leather pocket carry option but want something that will provide a more robust option than my folder. I dont want to break the bank but also need something that will last. Again left pocket carry can be kidex. Perfer leather. What do you have in mind.

[@buckc4294]

Rajha 3 would work for a spartan upgrade

[@c.h.schouler6621]

„… mit etwas größer als der Durchschnitt Händen“ or „mit leicht überdurchschnittlich großen Händen“… in German. ;)