High Value Folders.

Today I'm writing about high value folders, not to be confused with high cost. Value in this sense means you're getting the most bang for your buck, the most blade per cent so to speak. I'm looking at all brands here and may update this list as I see fit with amendments.

What makes a high value folder to me? Ergonomics, blade usage as in how much of the edge or how usable in every situation is the blade and finally the cost ratio to these other points. Materials aren't so much a value point but can be factored in at a whim.

No particular order:

1) Rat Model 1 from Ontario Knife Company. The Rat 1 is highly talked about as a value folder in many circles and after I picked one up I found out why. The blade length is on the large size as well as it makes full use of it, the blade to handle ratio is great as well. The ergonomics of the Rat 1 are stellar for a very budget friendly knife and the fit and finish of the knife is outstanding. I bought the D2 steel version just to try something new and it is a welcome addition to my EDC rotation. When anyone talked about high value folders if the Rat 1 isn't in their list you know they know nothing of what they're speaking of. The quintessential value folder.

2) Folding Razel from CRKT (Columbia River Knife and Tool). The Razel design in general should be on anyones knife list but for value's sake I chose the CRKT Razel, the full size one as the cost to usage is amazing. The handle is micarta and fits the natural grasp of your hand like nothing else and there is plenty of blade to play with. It has a slight belly too which adds another facet to the Razel design and you can't forget the chisel tip for scraping etc. Another truly amazing knife which is unfortunately discontinued.

3) Delica 4 from Spyderco. I don't own one of these anymore but am looking to get another shortly. The size and ease of use of this knife has forever cemented it in to the hall of fame for many, many users. VG-10 is the stock version of the Delica 4 but it has had many sprint variations, one of which is HAP40 which is the one I'm looking at getting. In terms of usage this blade shape is so well rounded from slicing to piercing to food prep even, the Delica has it all. To top things off most models are FRN handles which make this little carry light too!

4) Link 1776 from Kershaw. The Kershaw Link is a beautifully hand crafted knife from Kershaw's US factory. It uses 420HC steel and is made in the USA which is a huge bonus as seeing a lot of Kershaws from overseas gets that same old 8Cr13MoV steel. I proudly support domestic industry albeit from Canada but never the less this knife is a quick fire sheepsfoot that takes no prisoners. Having the Speedsafe is another fun thing with this knife, many people hate the assisted opening for some reason but I think it's neat.

5) Tuff Lite from Cold Steel. The Tuff Lite comes in a variety of handle scale colors now and with the option of the Tuff Lite mini two different styles too. It's small, light and lethal and would make a great companion to any sort of warehouse or dock work. The ergonomics on this little guy are great with a finger choil up front it's as secure as can be. AUS8a along side the hollow grind in this wharncliffe blade make for one sharp purchase if you catch my drift. The legendary Triad lock will also never let you down.

Thanks for taking a look at what I call some of the best Value folders on the market today.