ZT 0223 - Overview and Review

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**DISCLAIMER** This channel's content is meant for educational purposes only, and encourages the proper/safe use, handling, and understanding of tools. #everydaycarry #edc

[@SOMNIOHM]

*_This was one of the best ZT's ever made! A shame that they have once again discontinued a great knife without seemingly replacing it with anything!_*

[@jonduncansakurawallknifegarden]

This was a sleeper for me - saw it and thought “tacticool” only appeal - then I started take a look. I thinks it’s polarizing because we see a trench knife rather than a ZT but this is where they started and how they got their name. This type of design is their roots!! It’s really nice. I have no qualms with that knife and wouldn’t mind checking it out if I get a chance to in store. Interesting knife. Epic sungglebunny loves his!

[@OnlyInaWorldsoCold]

Fuller just cuts down on weight. I hated this at first glance now im just hoping i get lucky and find one around $200

[@delphicdescant]

Those holes everyone complains about almost certainly do *nothing* to reduce the structural integrity of the blade. That area where the holes are is still going to be much stronger than a centimeter further down the blade where the grind reduces its thickness.

[@danimal5910]

I love the way the 0223 look ! I’m waiting for mine in the mail now

[@joeallen2354]

Great review man. I love this knife. I'm not in love with the holes but overall I still love its aesthetic. The brown g10 is a throwback to the old school military survival knives that inspired its design. And the wrap around design enhances its resemblance to them. Another color would not have expressed that inspiration. I personally do not see anything bizarre about them but rather find them aesthetically pleasing. I've never seen wrap around g10 on another knife so perhaps you're experiencing cognitive disonance. Mine survived numerous spine whacks without incident. Love the action and solid lock up. Great review.

[@toddbaer9386]

Great video on what appears to be a great knife! Love ZT knives!! Oh yea mine should be in the mailbox tomorrow, can' wait!!

[@patrickvanovermeeren4513]

Looks like a solid knife to me.The action is sweet , and I like the bladeshape. Thanks for sharing !

[@matthewadler1329]

There aren't a ton of ZT models that I am really drawn to, but this guy caught my eye the first time I saw it. If it wasn't wearing the very obvious branding, I don't know if I would have guessed this was a ZT...maybe that means I don't really care for their design vibe...whatever it is, I do really think it's it's cool knife, and I hope that it's still being produced when my finances turn around and I'm in a position to buy it, because I would really like to have this in the collection. Thanks for covering it so well.

[@RaymondvanNiekerk]

l like this knife. Maybe as a vet I have a soft spot for tactical knives (just not the fantasy sh1t). Price is stiff, but for me in Cape Town all imports from USA are expensive due to weak currency, import taxes & shipping. Gotta really love knives to collect them at these prices. But I still buy them. Think I'll get this one too. Love your reviews Metal Complex.

[@randyf.9188]

You covered just about everything I could think of, nice job!

[@stuartsmith3359]

The whole “if you like the design but weren’t sure about the functionality” thing was exactly what I needed to hear....definitely ganna pick this up at my local knife store soon! Thanks man great vid as always👍🏻

[@johnwest4492]

Hey Metal, I was told that the G-10 was kind of an homage to the K-Bar fighting knife I could be wrong though.

[@metal_complex]

Would make sense to me!

[@lyndylou1686]

It's nice to see ZT trying new things, not my style but I can see the appeal; definitely has a sturdy/durable vibe

[@WhatsthePOINT_EDC]

I have got to get one of these. From what I hear ZT really did a good job with this one. Btw the holes in the blade make this a tad bit different than other knives. For me it’s about the small touches along with functionality. Sweet knife!

[@dualsportedc]

After watching Living Survival beat the hell out of it I want one. People say it looks like an M-Tech. To me it looks like something WE would make but this has one huge upgrade. It’s USA made. I’ll be adding one of these to the collection as soon as I can

[@chrisgonzales1615]

Very interesting. I have been wondering about that knife myself and I definitely prejudged it as well.

[@kerimtozo8056]

IT'S A VERY INTERESTING AND KIND OF DIFFERENT ZT KNIFE, ..I LIKE IT.

[@ThePaPappy]

I remember that video, it reminded some of us of a KABAR fighting knife. And it matches the brown of my S&W 9mm 😁 I like it.

[@matthewshannon6946]

Reminds me of a Buck 110....prob. The large clip detail on the blade. I draw an imaginary line on the axis of that series of holes on the hilt continuing up to and through the groove on the blade. Observing that imaginary line I wonder how much steel is remaining on that axis after the machining/holes. It strikes me as though that drilling/machining "perforates" the blade across its width. Do you concur and would this weaken the blade across it's width when it's used for a "hard use" purpose that might require some twisting/prying action? Great objective review! Thanks for your thoughts!!

[@gardenerman5734]

yeah.3 years to late.did not know this knife existed.I love it

[@reydecastro6651]

If you look at the designs from this Knife's designer, Tim Galean, you will see that those holes at the hilt common among his designs. Think of it as his signature. 👍🏽 Great review by the way! Your reviews are authoritative and fair. You took the time to physically handle and review, rather than just looking and judging. You validated my interest toward buying this life. Thank you!

[@kenmarapese9085]

The more I see it the more I like it! Nice review, behind the edge thickness please!

[@MaJu0286]

What an awesome looking knife. But geeze, why did the drill holes into the blade stock🙄 Very ironic to drill holes into the stock of a proudly overbuild knife😅

[@reydecastro6651]

I like and have this knife since I already have a full size Adamas. The Adamas, while really awesome for field use, is a bit large for EDC. I could get a Mini Adamas but I do not want to spend the money for a design I already have in my collection. This 0223 is a sweet alternative to the Mini Adamas!

[@CristoffelBonorand]

Just discovered this one. Probably my favourite ZT, might need to get one.

[@kevins6246]

USA Made Blade and DLT are my online go to's, the spine whack test is whack. The knife is built well and agree about the the color of the G10 personally would prefer OD Green, if I were still on Active Duty I'd probably be interested but now not quite my cup of coffee. Did a good job on the review MC more than fair.

[@thejake5731]

This Knife I believe is to mimic an AR-15(M-16), hence the 0223 badge.

[@RaymondvanNiekerk]

I love the look of this knife.

[@tallica4life81]

Interesting knife. I think natural or a green linen micarta would look sick as inserts on the scales.

[@JohnJRambo-zi5fi]

my blade centering is off so bad and ive had the knife for 2 weeks and barely used it its touching the inside of the handle when closed

[@herbertgearing1702]

The slot is supposed to be suggestive of a fuller. I think the g10 wrap is supposed to look like a leather wrap handle. I think the blade is a bit of an homage to a Kabar fighting knife.

[@patrickmartin3361]

I have never had an issue with the lock on any of my zt's havnt had a ton but had a few.

[@TheBenpost]

My eyes keeps getting drawn to that "smoke mark" 😂🤣😅

[@ZRockwell]

Hey I know this is an old video but what is detent lash Metal?

[@Sophocles13]

I LOVE my ZT 0223... I don't see what people get so bent out of shape about. Do they want every single knife to follow the same pattern? If so go move somewhere communist I guess. Every knife has design flair that its creator has imbued it with. As far as actual use goes, I've owned mine for almost 2 years, EDC it every day and haven't babied it. The DLC coating on the blade hasn't scratched or even worn at ALL, neither has the finish on the titanium scales. The overlays have also stood up outstandingly, no scratches, divots or blemishes. I personally love the overlays because it makes the back spine of the blade feel like a fixed blade in your hand. And even after living in my pocket for almost 2 years and not being taken apart, yet alone cleaned once besides a wipedown, it still deploys 100% every time and is still 100% drop free. If you're on the fence, don't listen to the haters, buy it! People like to call it "tacticool" or "mall ninja" but once you get it in hand you can feel that it is pure quality in materials and execution. Every person I've showed it to, whether they were a knife person or not, appreciated it and knew right away that it was a high end piece and not some gas station purchase. I was super scared to buy let alone EDC a $300 knife (my previous EDC was a Steel Will Modus) but if given the choice I would definitely purchase this again.

[@jamesgurr4401]

Those other companies...they're skimping on their jimping..

[@waveman0]

fugly looking ZT, and one I won't be getting. My 0920, 0562cf and 0804 all drop shut like that and my 0470 does somewhat to a lesser extent.

[@myhandlewastakenandIgaveup]

I actuallt want to buy this one...

[@applejuice-4706]

I love the look! I want it!

[@Charles-ot2yf]

I'd be a lot more interested if it had a micarta inlay instead of G10

[@benbenavides9792]

So I guess being able to score one of these for 200 on the secondary is a good deal yes? I better hop on it.. lol

[@abc456f]

I like the clip point blade but did Stevie Wonder design the handle?

[@myvids3115]

Color Choice probably was Military inspired. That Night becthecreason for the Picknick colors

[@genoedcknifecollecter1538]

I can't decide this or cold steel AD10

[@frankiejdwm_edc1037]

Great review brotha. The action on this guy looks amazing, and the holes really don't weaken the blade as much as people think. I guarantee if you put this and the pm2 in a vice it would take substantially more pounds of pull to snap the ZT than the PM2 and it would probably snap closer to tip or midway of blade not at the holes. A little to high priced for me, and I'd def have to dye the scales black

[@metal_complex]

I absolutely agree!

[@buffblades6742]

The reason people are hating on it so much is cause It's such an awesome knife and it looks so beautiful but for some strange reason ZT added weird and ugly features and thus not fore-filling the knifes full potential as a truly awesome peace

[@jamesquinsler5607]

I wonder how many people were sold when you showed the action lol

[@holdernewtshesrearin5471]

Oui loik that knoif! I'm revisiting some older designs trying to decide on my next purchase. The ZT 0223 and ZT 0470 are up, the Hogue RSK Ritter , the deca and the Sig Sauer 0320? are all up and my current grail, the Microtech SOCOM Bravo is really calling to me. There are several others also calling to me, the Spyderco kapara, subvert and the amalgam and Benchmade mini crooked river and that new wrapped over G-10 handle model in particular (I can't recall it's name). We shall see what muh lady has to say about muh dilemma.

[@arrowheads46]

sweet color combo

[@Bald_Head89]

The only ZTs I'd buy currently are the 0450 and the 0452. But I do like the traditional throwback Ka-Baresque g10 overlays.

[@19Bearsfansince79]

Really?? No 0562 models?? Phenomenal knife man....

[@dark_gravity_edc]

Some people hate just for the sake of hating. There's a lot of stuff I don't like the design of but I don't hate on it or the company. I don't buy it. Some things don't work when you use them in a way they're not intended to be used, not their fault. Great review and video. Still don't like the look but it's ok. I don't have to buy it. Lol

[@ogenmatic]

I like the looks of it with the exception of the holes in the blade near the handle. Seems like a great place to store lint & grit. I have little interest in it simply because it’s a ZT and likely fat behind the edge. Regarding spine whacking, the best way not to fail that test is to simply not whack the spine. What the heck? Are people sword fighting with their pocket knives to make that happen? Oh. And the model number - 0223 - seems like a nod to the military ammo which seems in line with the knife’s militaryesque looks.

[@19Bearsfansince79]

The spine wack test is BS and that's because the whole concept is when the knife is being gripped the lock bar holds it in place because you're squeezing the handle....And I saw another video where a guy absolutely beat the hell out of this blade and it stood up to every test he put it through

[@gradualpull2171]

I really like this knife as a whole but I completely understand that the price point and design is a pass for most. ZT is known for its elegent designs and common place EDC but not so much as a hard use blade for every occasion.

[@USCavalry1]

The funny thing is that your perception is the opposite of the knife philosophy that the company was founded on. They have definitely moved away from the original baseline of “built like a tank”.

[@gradualpull2171]

@@USCavalry1 I orginally bought my ZT's for the purpose of that philosophy as my business requires the use of a hard blade almost all day. I have been disappointed in ZT for some time now and buy them only as artsy blades for dress rather than work; primarily just as a hobby. There are far better options at 1/3 the price if you need them to last. Zero T disappoints me as hard use premium knife makers which is why most of my other peers prefer other manufacturers, and I don't blame them.

[@USCavalry1]

Gradual Pull I agree man. I got into knives after I got out of the Army, but I don’t think I would carry any of their current offerings on deployment except for the 0562. I generally like the take Metal Complex has on knives but I disagree with him about the 0909. I have taken mine on many outdoor excursions and I think it is an excellent hard use folder. Unfortunately, it is no longer in production.

[@gradualpull2171]

@@USCavalry1 It's hard to find the quality you want in todays saturated market, unfortunately. I still us an old m9 usmc ontario bayonet for survival camping instead of the newer m9's which are crap. For combat you want that composite for easier sharpening instead of stainless that plagues the market. S35vn is a good compromise in my opinion for all around usages. The Hinderer zt designs are built tougher than most spydr or Benchmade in my opinion. I own an 0909 and the sleekness really works well together with the larger blade and it hasn't failed me yet. Generally compact handles offer less resistance but this model really has the best of everything. I can tell you know what's up because the more you rely and use a blade the more the flaws show and you get jaded about buying new folders.

[@gnomersy1087]

I mean issues with the holes from my perspective. They're an aesthetic feature that doesn't fit my aesthetic that's the main one, second possible issue is just one of structural integrity drilling out holes by the pivot seems like it could be a failure point for the blade if you pry with it. I assume that's not the case but it makes one feel like that could be a possibility. I think the long hole and the G10 handle are supposed to be a homage to Kabar knives hence why they went with something brownish and ridged and the long hole is supposed to represent the fuller? Strangely I really like the Kabar aesthetically but not this one so maybe I'm wrong. I don't know still not a fan personally because I'm a cheapo and the aesthetic isn't really my jam but I don't think it's an issue and the knife seems to be done well.

[@metal_complex]

I get where people are coming from with the whole structural integrity thing, but in the average spyderco blade w/the spydie hole, there's more material missing from that hole than what they removed from the 0223. Other than the tips of those blades, spyderco knives seem to hold up well regardless. Just my thoughts.

[@reaper117nobody7]

@@metal_complex yes the spydie hole is larger but it is not in an area of structural integrity, companies that have opening holes don't get a bunch of flak because it is not in a structural area for the blade so it doesnt matter, but those holes are the equivalent to building a house on the ocean, could you do it sure, is it a good idea, no

[@metal_complex]

I disagree. A house being built on the ocean is not the same thing as putting a deployment hole in a blade.

[@reaper117nobody7]

@@metal_complex im referring to the 5 aesthetic holes, not opening holes

[@metal_complex]

@@reaper117nobody7 either way. There isn't enough material gone for the integrity of the blade to be compromised under normal use. The amount of force required to break that blade right where the holes are located would likely also cause major damage to some other area of the knife that's crucial to it's overall functionality. My guess is the pivot would suffer well before the blade broke.

[@luisortega259]

ZT are losing in a big way to other companies, besides the designs, the prices are too high for what you can get now for the same amount

[@codyflood6995]

In my experience I've always got more bang for the buck with Microtechs. Microtechs have a lot better fit and finish for the money.

[@oinnsheathen5684]

I prefer my 0452 over the Para 2 or Griptillian. Even over the 940 Benchmade. 🤷🏼‍♂️ I guess I prefer a flipper these days.

[@timpande6900]

You know Louis, I honestly have absolutely no idea what you're talking about and how they fall behind on the designs. They're probably one of the innovators of a design from the beginning so if anything I would say that other companies are probably jacking off of zt.... and while it's up to you I mean you can either jump on the bandwagon with all the guys who say some of the knives are no good but have 90% of them have never even touched the knife they're complaining about so I don't know how you can review something you've never had in your hands. But if you've touched it and seen it and all and you honestly don't like it then I respect that

[@davidmajor3632]

This knife is ZT paying homage tp the KABAR USMC fighter. The G10 overlay and color of G10 makes perfect sense since the USMC Fighter has a segmented leather handle.

[@jshphysicistatyahoo]

I'm a big Zero Tolerance fan. But to my eyes this ZT-0223 looks like a miniature version of Medford Knife and Tool's "Marine Raider". Okay, the latter is a fixed blade and costs $650. If I had to choose, I'd pick the Raider, but it'd be best to have both knives!

[@joeallen2354]

Definitely for it.

[@BeefGold]

You have some of the best fingernails in the business. I've seen since gnarly stuff.

[@aznelite325]

I'm 90% okay with the looks of the design, but the holes just turn me off lol. The long, not particularly functional thumb groove/fuller works well IMO, but for $300, I'd rather pick up a Socom Elite.

[@YourHandleHere84]

ZT’s smoothest knife? The ZT 0452 would like to have a word with you lol.

[@jmas2190]

That baby drops like the 0920.

[@andreasplesko1543]

See that Steve. It's an awesome knife.

[@metal_complex]

LOL

[@stevedavis8045]

My name is Steve also and I purchased this one and I'm totally delighted with it, its incredibly smooth action and design I really appreciate. I agree though the handle material would be great in carbon fiber scales. I did install a deep carry pocket clip and it worked perfectly for my carry pocket knife.

[@jacobstout9769]

Those holes towards the pivot and the "thumb hole fuller" thing (what it is actually called escapes my mind) is probably just there to reduce the weight so it can drop shut. Most of the weight is left towards the tip so it improves the flipper action. So it does serve a purpose as well as aesthetics.

[@rpow6861]

its a lovely looking knife

[@Abby_Normal_1969]

$300 is quite a cost for a knife that doesn't scream "you must have me" inside my skull. I think that ZT does a great job with 20CV. I have the 0393, 0609, and 0920 all in the 20CV. Properly treated 20CV blades are among the best.

[@OsamaBinDarrel]

This definitely isn't going to win knife of the year for me but the only thing that's kept me from buying it is the price and that goes for most ZT knives .

[@stevewelborn8744]

I love USA made blade.

[@johngordon2929]

Put that hinderer wharncliffe black coated blade on this poop colored knife and you might have a winner.

[@robertlefeaux]

Purely aesthetically, it looks cheap and simple, like something you'd see at Walmart for $20.

[@AK-hv6wv]

Admit that you just can not afford it 🙂

[@willc9235]

I like the the knife but it is way too expensive for what you are getting.

[@patrickmartin3361]

Looks like a modern buck 110

[@metal_complex]

Ya it kind of does!

[@tankcrowe5417]

As a tactical blade ,it's never a good idea to honeycomb steel, especially at the hilt. Still it could be a worthy backup to a fixed blade for those enlisted. Reverse grip looks functional with angle at thumb. I can see the appeal to service personnel. Great review.

[@axegekko6477]

With the stupid high price I thought this was a sprint run, ZTs ode to the USMC kabar. Simply too big and too expensive tho I always liked how it look.

[@codyflood6995]

I'm not a ZT fan at all, but since when is $300 for a full Titanuim knife overpriced? I might would buy it if I didn't have the roll the dice with lock bar issues.

[@onemorenoshit]

I dont care, i just like it. I dont like the price, but i like it

[@sniper161718]

Way too expensive. Relax with the price ZT

[@darrenzwicker1058]

Persoally I like the looks more-so than I do the majority of zt. Think it, like the rest of their line, is over priced.

[@ericpitre4031]

Cool. More for me to buy. Whats ya fav brand/knife?

[@ericpitre4031]

I like eafengrow, on the lesser cost factor. Otherwise its ColdSteel, my aus10 CounterPoint🔪🇺🇸be cool brother

[@mistersmith3986]

Yes, I want holes drilled through the ricaso of my knife. After all, who needs strength to be a factor in the blade of their knife?

[@USCavalry1]

Living Survival did a review and beat this thing up. Seems like a pretty stout knife.

[@msharmall7298]

Years after people reported it and people are still experiencing spine whack failures. It could be the greatest knife ever made, but if I have to worry about it failing at all, I cannot justify it at this price. Frankly unacceptable. Those reports and them having discontinued every good model, are what stops me from buying ZT's.

[@BParker55]

This release killed ZTs marketing. This was them trying to go back to tactical roots. Just kind of missed, making it polarizing and then tons of people hated on it so hard that I doubt they do tactical again for a while. Which is sad.

[@stuartsmith3359]

Wrong

[@metal_complex]

No he's pretty much spot on

[@jstnhnt28]

Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeew

[@nunoborgesdias6332]

Is a nice ZT knife, however too overpriced for the material offered.

[@49giants3]

It looks like a gas station knife

[@oscarzana1728]

Looks like a knife that you can get at the Big 5 for $29.95 in style!

[@Sugardaddy501]

Pass; too tacticool for my taste. Not changeing from amazon; no interest in "super deals" and don't care if people call it a real dealer.

[@freddy_theknifeguy6007]

UGLY DESIGN... regular zt quality. not great, but good.

[@hilltopknivesandgear8103]

Shew! Wow I can't get over the ugliness of that knife! Great overview/review.

[@Keith_the_knife_freak]

Nice review but $300. 😡😡😡😡

[@jtucci5711]

Piece of titanium with a horse blanket thrown over it for $300? No thanks. Where's the Hogue Ritter? I never question my finger? I like the way you put your foot down about not talking about it, ata boy! Final analysis, just sell me the blade and pass on the frame. I like pretty knifes if I want my balls busted by something ugly I will engage my wife, sorry dear.

[@naidesu-et9jh]

lmao it looks like an mtech

[@solidus1995]

I dont see how this is an ugly knife.

[@naidesu-et9jh]

The design itself isn't that ugly, but some of its features remind people of cheaper knives like mtechs.

[@650tonyd]

cool knife but not worth $300

[@metal_complex]

Nobody can gain anything from your comment because there's no context. You're just saying words. Try explaining yourself.

[@brandont9071]

Ew i hate how this knife looks

[@chrisjaskulski8613]

It looks like a Launch7 with a perforated blade... built for hard use with a perforated blade... and pretend Rambo fake tough guy BS... RIP ZT

[@SeanJohnson-qm4pu]

This is a gas station knife.

[@Nightwolf866]

230 at closout. Good buy?

[@antonclemens4048]

Where?