Best Mid-Sized Spring-Assist Folder?

[blackscot]

Pretty much what the title says.

All of my folders have been non-assist -- this will be my first springer.

I'd like it to be small enough for everyday, casual-dress carry. I'd also like it to be both tough and inexpensive enough that I won't be worrying about it getting a little banged up.

So let me know your favorites. Also, tell me what it is you most like about it: ergo handle shape, blade quality, ease of handling/deployment, etc.

As always, pics and web links welcome.

Thanks.

[Failure2Stop]

I recently picked up a Benchmade 907D2. It is my first spring-assisted blade, picked it up after I killed the clip on a Spyderco. I have carried autos and standard openers daily for about 22 years. This is a really cool knife. 3" D2 blade, thin handle, comfortable to use and carry- it's one of those that you forget you are wearing. I selected it for it's features- blade material, grind, edge type (I do not like serrations or silly curves), handle- I really wasn't looking for an assisted opener, but I am happy.

Picked mine up from VA Arms. It is listed in the Benchmade Catalog HERE.

ETA- I don't really know if it's the best, but it works for me.

[POF.Ops]

I love my http://www.blackhawk.com/product1.asp?P=30-&C=C0975 Plus they just put out a new version with a better handle.

[blackscot]

Thanks guys. Both very good candidates, and similar to the non-assist Benchmade I have been carrying for the past couple of years and pictured here:

http://www.benchmade.com/products/pr...aspx?model=530

Another forget-you're-carrying-it design. Mine is the "SBK" version (lower right). Something like this with an effective spring assist would be perfect. Are your choices very easy to deploy?

As for serrations, I actually like them if for no other reason than cutting rope (which I seem to have to do a lot of). The serrations grab the rope a lot more effectively than does the smooth edge. Obvious downside is sharpening though -- a definite trade-off there.

[Failure2Stop]

I love my http://www.blackhawk.com/product1.asp?P=30-&C=C0975 Plus they just put out a new version with a better handle.

I thought the Keating came in manual or auto, didn't know there was an assisted opener.

[Soulrack223]

I am active on bladeforums and from what I've seen posted there, the most popular assisted opening knife is the Zero Tolerance 0200. My brother has one and it's a great knife. http://www.kershawknives.com/productdetails.php?id=9 Ken Onion's assisted opening design is the best one on the market IMO.

[ToddG]

How thin is the grip of the Zero Tolerance 200? I've been thinking about a new folder for absolutely no good reason whatsoever.

[Soulrack223]

How thin is the grip of the Zero Tolerance 200? I've been thinking about a new folder for absolutely no good reason whatsoever.

Without it in front of me, I'd guess 5/16 to 3/8 of an inch. It is easily one of the most popular EDC knives on bladeforums right now, and I'd doubt any other assisted opening knife is getting better user reivews.

[POF.Ops]

I thought the Keating came in manual or auto, didn't know there was an assisted opener.

You are correct. I assumed "assisted" meant "auto", my mistake. My Hornet is the auto version. As far as assisted goes I think my Emerson SOCFK fits that description - http://www.extremeoutfitters.us/inde...ROD&ProdID=350

I have the spearpoint version and their Wave feature is pretty cool by how it opens the blade about 2/3's as you pull it from your pocket, a little flick of the wrist at the same time opens it completely.

[ToddG]

Soulrack -- Thanks. Might have to see about finding myself one of those. Hmmm, who do I know at Kershaw????