“Columbia River CRKT 5385 Eric Ochs Delineation Assisted Flipper Knife 2.94" Satin Plain Blade, Stainless Steel Handles, Frame Lock”
Last summer I picked this up at Scheels for $15 as an open box item. I’ve always carried a cheap Gerber and not knowing much about knives I figured this was a decent deal after a quick google search seeing these typically go for $40 with an MSRP of $60.
Well it’s a solid knife but the stainless grip is way too slippery. Also not a fan of the blue accents but that’s just a cosmetic thing.
I’ve been eyeing the Spyderco Para 3 as it seems to be the all around most liked and raved about knife out there. However the prices of knives shocked me. They can get up there like guns do.
Also, I’m a lefty and realized a lot of knives have the notch on the side for correct handed people so that left me a bit concerned. I’m still learnt what all the little acronyms and labels mean for blade strength and all that.
I know where to find gun deals, have vendors to hit up directly for direct pricing. But I have no idea how to find a good deal on a Para 3. Taking tips and helpful suggestions on how to get one at a good price.
Also sharpening them.. that’s a whole other rabbit hole that’s intimidating me. Thanks in advance!
by DejaJaws
6 Comments
Get yourself a left handed or ambidextrous knife. There are plenty of good authorized dealers- bladehq, SMKW, knifecenter, knivesshipfree, DLT trading, Sportsmen’s Warehouse, etc.
I found mine on amazon for $160, im a righty though
You can get a Spyderco Tenatious for around $60 to try out if you may want to spend around $170 for a Para3. I have a Para3 and ill tell you it is great but the urge to customize it will end with it’s cost almost doubled. Of you still want something cheaper but still good quality look at a Civivi Praxis, regular size or mini if you have like medium size hands.
If you can, try handling the Para3 before ordering it. You can operate the compression lock from the spine, left-handed, but it is a little bit of a learning curve. I’d suggest the Native 5 because of the back lock. It’s ambidextrous.
What price range were you looking for? Any aversion to Chinese OEMs?
I love my para 3, I carry it more than any other knife. Maybe as much as my Vosteed Mink
Can’t go wrong with the Tenacious. Also look at brands like Civivi, Vosteed, and Kizer. Those are some of my more carried budget knives. Be careful tho it’s a slippery slope.