A buddy of mine who is graduating from an academy brought up in passing that he's been looking for a folder. I figure with his graduation date coming around Christmas, might be a decent gift to fulfill both.

I'm not looking at breaking the bank, but I do want quality suggestions. Intended use is EDC, with defensive capabilities.

 

Thanks for suggestions!

Ka-Bar folder, I'll take a picture later Ben.

Budget?

I find my Gerber Paraframe quite comfortable to hold. I find it to be a good over all utility folder to cut open a box to cutting apart plastic zip ties. They come in a few different styles and cost from 18.00 to 35.00 dollars.

if by academy you mean police academy he can legally carry one of these http://www.rangerjoes.com/Benchmade-Knife-Pardue-P2498.aspx I had one of these before I moved to NJ. I just left it with a friend since switch blades are illegal for the common man in NJ.

If he's looking for an automatic knife, I recommend Microtech. All opinions about the company aside, they do make a quality product. With some Googling, you can find a new Microtech LUDT or SOCOM for around $150.

 

If autos are out, but you're still comfortable spending $100-200, my next choice would be Emerson. They're one of the most respected knife companies out there and they make fantastic knives in a variety of configurations. Emerson patented the "Wave" assisted opening,

. I've had personal experience with their customer service (which was satisfactory, albeit slow) and I'm currently using the A-100 for EDC.

 

For cheaper knives, I recommend Spyderco, CRKT or Kershaw. I've EDCed models from all three companies and found them to be the best of the more cost efficient brands.

 

When selecting a folder, you should make sure the knife has the following:

 

• Strong locking mechanism
  
• Fits in hand when closed
  
• Tip up carry
  
• Robust opening mechanism
  
• One-handed opening
  
• Non-slip surface
  

as well as evaluate blade type and length.

 

These criteria were shamelessly lifted from Chris Fry of MDTS Training, who advertises on NJGF. Check out the whole article here!!! Definitely worth a read; I took his folding knife class over the summer and found it to be very insightful/practical.