KnifeCenter FAQ #57: Do-It-All EDC + Best Torx Set for Knife Maintenance & How Good are Free Knives? 

Years ago when I picked up the knife hobby, I never thought you would be the only knife seller channel I watched, but here we are. No need to go clicking around anymore.

I used a Dewalt folder (yes Dewalt) for the duration of 2020. Remolded a 1970’s home, used the knife probably over 1,000 times to slice , shape , cut and pry dozens of materials . I own over 50 knives between 15$ and 500$ . I cannot imagine putting a high quality knife (or any knife valued at over 100$) through construction site abuse.. Hate to think of what would be left of a knife on bearings after a week on the job site. Thanks to DCA , and loyal Cam Man

You’re back! Your substitute, Seth, did great by the way. Give that man a raise! Or a new knife so he can review it!

Dear David! I had a stressful day and your energy and humility made me feel amazing! Thank you so much! Be safe

😊👋🏻... Welcome back Mr. David, it's a pleasure to see you again. You are an institution on this site. Greating from Milan, Italy🇮🇹

I have 2 Turrets. One plan edge and one combo edge. So, I know at some point Benchmade made the Turret with a plan edge.

That torx driver info was gold! Thank you 🙌🏻

Hi David (and Seth), My first question was answered brilliantly, so here I go again! Hope you can help me out with another one similar to my 1st question: I'm looking for a folding knife, with the following features: 1) Flipper (that becomes a "guard") 2) Axis or Similar Cross-Bar Lock (**MUST** be bank-vault, bomb-proof strong) 3) Thumb Hole, either oval or round, doesn't matter, but **MUST** have it... 4) About 3" or more Blade Length 5) Pointy, not Wharncliffe, but needs some belly. 6) Optional, but would be game-winning: Full Flat Grind, finger choil, assist or bearings in the pivot and Deep Carry Pocket Clip 7) See if you can recommend me a budget and a premium version each. Thanks so much!

I have the Native 5 lightweight. Underrated because it’s a lock back and not a fidgety flipper. Great little knife for EDC.

I like Spyderco's over everything else for 2 unique reasons. I'm a housepainter so I often need a knife I can both open AND close with just one hand because the other hand is holding onto a ladder . And I can also use the thumb hole to pry open paint cans because of the way they stick out . It keeps me from being tempted to use the tip and possibly break it off.

For the guy with the first question who wanted a do everything knife, he might also want to consider the Spyderco Manix2 lightweight . I have the K320 and the Manix2 and they are both excellent knives.

Bless me DCA, I have sinned. Many, many years ago (60 +) I was throwing my Ka-Bar at a tree, Yes, I broke it! Woe is me!...I miss it still.

Serious question, which knife represents you the most. Not your favourite etc, but which represents your personality, character, demeanor. (are you a keychain knife or a Cold Steel Espada.) Both for David and Seth. Love the show, long time viewer

Busy week for me so I have 3 knifecenter videos to watch today. Thank you!

Most serious question of the day: If Freddy Krueger was purchasing new knives for his hands, what knives would he pick for each finger?

DCA, I bought the K320A....love it! It has become my EDC.

Last 25 years. Army, Hiking, back up for outdoor Chef work , trainer for Kali (tactical) : Endura all the way.

Getting ready for the cooler hiking and backpacking season in the Ozarks of Missouri. Any knives (fixed or folders) you can suggested for lighter carry that can take care of quick fire and food prep needs. No more than 3 ounces but can take care of business. $75.00 or less preferred.

Thank you so much for the torx recommendation! Great show love collecting a nice knife every once in while...😅

Thanks David for a great video. Very informative.

I got a bench made Mini Presidio 2 for 87 dollars and it has been so good 👊

My favorite "prybar type knife" is the Ontario Spec Plus SP8, 14" thick with a double ground sharp flat tip. I've had mine for decades & baton split more kindling wood than I can remember. I'm not a fan of the saw tooth type spine though. If I could get this knife with a smooth spine I'd buy another one.

Great segment David! The first topic answered relevant questions for me. I’ve been carrying the CJRB Talla as a beater and it’s great. I think you might have missed the mark on the construction recommendation BK3 though. I would recommend a dive knife with a pry tip. Keep up the good work!!

DCA ... a great (construction) fixed blade & "prybar" pommel is the Cold Steel 36MG 4blade/full-tang/pommel knife with secure-x (kydexish) sheath and coated CS blade at $44 (I scored handles for more texture/grip). Its not a KC knife, and its a few dollars more at $195, but the Knifeworks MK3 4.5" fixed S45VN blade is the best all-around camping/food prep/tactical/EDC knife.

For the guy wanting a construction blade, he could get more than a dozen of the Mora chisel knives for his $300. At that price I don't think you'd be afraid of using it as a pry bar.

I have a TOOR darter, and it is the ultimate EDC knife . It is cpm3v and it has serrations on the spine , and it is razor sharp!

Hey DCA. The MLB World Series starts on Tuesday. What knife would you choose to win the World Series?

Hey DCA, could you explain the types of tasks where you would want to use a either a toothy edge or a polished edge? It seems like a polished edge would be better for push cuts and a toothy edge good for slicing cuts but how does that apply to larger chopping knives? Also which type of edge is more durable assuming same sharpening angle? Thanks.

I genuinely appreciate your videos alot

I stopped watching Blade HQ videos when I found your channel. You are much more entertaining to watch and give so much great information!

Hey DCA, What is your favorite sharpening system to take a knife all the way from a complete regrind all the way up through a mirror polish? Obviously, there are a ton of options between whetstones, guided sharpening systems, and various powered systems. But price to performance, what do you recommend?

For a fixed blade under $300 that can work as a pry bar, you almost gotta mention Becker BK 2 and ESEE 5.

Hey DCA, Great and informative video as usual. Recently I've been wondering about different "big and small knife" combos. It's nice to have a larger chopping/batoning sturdy knife and a smaller, more finely ground one that can be used for wood carving and food prep for example. What are your thoughts on that and do you have a favourite reasonably priced combo? Thanks, Chilli

DCA thanks for another enjoyable video. I'd definitely vote for the BM Griptilian for first question from Josh. They are so well made and fail proof

You need a KnifeCenter shirt with an outline of that kitchen knife that reads "You Gott Pay the Goblins"...this needs to be a thing! LOL!

Just bought a sig hogue k320 nitron tanto as a daily user. Not disappointed. I could only find the stonewashed blade on the knifecenter exclusive, which had been on sale for less than other places. I used st Claire's nano oil on the business parts and it has been smooth sailing ever since. I pre-ordered a deka wharncliffe, but still waiting for hogue to produce. Hopefully we get the Gen 2 dekas.

Glad to see you back DCA!

Hey DCA, My first knife was an inexpensive Barlow knife that I got for Christmas 30 years ago. I still have the knife today. I've been considering adding more Barlow's to my collection. Any quality Barlow's come to mind at around the $100 price point? I'd love to see a more expensive "grail knife" in this genre too!

Hello DCA, I've recently purchased a Kershaw Speed Bump and I love the recurve on the blade and the flipper tab but I can never seem to get it closed and in return, I can't really use it as an EDC blade. I'd love a liner lock or some other type of locking mechanism like that, just as long as it has the recurve blade. Thanks.

Thanks. I have CRKT Provokes. 3 need tightening. Its why ive been using Fixed with no screws for 3+ yrs now. I didn't like the ergo of the Benchmade torx set. That stubby screw driver is Perfect. I'm buying 2. 4 of them on the Provoke series are Large. Hope 1 bit is lrg enough 🤞

Nice to see you are back although Seth did a nice job in reserve!

For the drivers I'd recommend the iFixit Mako. 35 bucks and you get way more utility than just the torx drivers. And they're quality bits in S2 steel.

I just got back from a camping trip to New Mexico. Stayed at Navajo Lake with some friends in a tent. I'm a professional cook by trade, so by unanimous decision I was responsible for the food prep on the trip. I brought my Sig K320 and Civivi Elementum. The Sig is a workhorse. I used it for a million things while I was there, but I have to be honest. Its extremely awkward for food prep. I actually ended up cutting myself the first night out there on the first tomato. I immediately went to the luggage and got out the Elementum. Felt much more natural, much like a paring knife. I would have a hard time telling anyone NOT to get the K320. Its probably one of the best EDC knives I've ever carried, but look elsewhere for a food prep option. If you see this, I hope this helps a little!

Hi DCA. When I trek and camp, I usually carry a big blade for wood prep (axe, chopper) and my opinel for food prep and to strike my firesteel. Do you have another light, inexpensive and slicy option with a one-hand opening system to replace the opinel? Thanks for the great content.

Hi, DCA, thanks for the great job!! I wonder if you recommend me good gloves for bushcraft. The ones that are comfortable feel too thin/weak, and the ones that feel safe are too rigid and make it hard to hold the knife (or anything else, in fact) with them!!! Is there any brand/type that offers the best of both worlds? Many thanks!!

Mora Get two separate knifes. One kitchen/cook the other carve, gut, skin. Split..(camp ) Mora can do both plus Barton for your smaller wood needs.

I use my griptilian for everything else! Never had any issues.

The fixed blade could also be an esee! They’re perfect hard use fixed blade.

options on wood splitting axe? mainly be use to split logs and kindling for the chimney on winter time. willing to spend 100$ at most if it's really that great. thanks.

Liked the condor bushglider, was not aware of it, of course the revo ness too

Liking that condor a bunch, but i fell in love with that boker.

I carry a classic benchmade 940, I'm confused on the blade shape though, I always hear it called different things and I look at it and see giant spey blade, and second I've not had to resharpen it but I do hone it on a fine Arkansas stone, what are your thoughts on sharpening a high end steel using traditional materials, just for a reference I've had the knife for almost two years and that's daily use whittling and cutting packaging and rope

I’m gonna say that the Manix 2 (specifically the m390 variant which is FANTASTIC) is the ultimate “do it all” EDC. It’s slicey, strong, ergonomic and if you’re into flicky locks for whatever reason, it’s got that, too. I like my shamans and my k390 stretch a little better but I’m trying to look at this from an objective, “contemporary knife market” standpoint. The best

Hi DCA, I've noticed that you do not seem to feel that warm towards serrated edges (let's not mention combo edges). However, a lot of people have told me that a fully serrated edge, as we can find on the Endela SE might bring more cutting performance. I'm interested in learning more about serrations. For exemple : are they better to bring to the restaurants?

Amazing video as usual thank David The manderson

I hike with a Medford marauder ti. Never had to turn around because it’s to heavy. And it chews my tomato’s for me ;)

Your guys video are amazing 👏 . Am a bladehq member but I want to buy from you all too. I just feel so obligated to drop some serious knife money at knifecenter. You all have lifted my spirits so much in that last year or so. Keep up the good work! Quick question, what multitool tool would you recommend for medium to small size? Money no object. Also can you carry it scout style?

DCA, seeing all these new, beautiful knives come out, there are quite a few that don't offer lefty pocket clips. Do you know why so many manufacturers omit this from their designs? Also, any suggestions for pocket carry as a lefty with a right only clip? Love the videos, keep up the great work!

👍 👍 👍 I've been waiting for another. Awesome.

Hey David, love the show, it's gotten me far deeper into knives and higher end steels. I bought a spiderco tenacious and loved it so much that I'm looking to get the sv30 model. My question to you is do you recommend it and what else would you recommend. I chose spiderco because I'm left handed. (Easier to open). Keep up the great work!! Cheers Ryan

I would have suggested the bk2 for the construction guy as well. I am looking for a flipper in the price range of a Honey Badger using washers instead of bearings and stainless for utility/tactical/hunting and food prep what would you suggest?

Hey DCA and Thomas! I have a sharpening related question. I decided I needed to learn how to sharpen, so I started on a Lansky. Then my son bought me an Edge Pro, and I am very satisfied with my results. I would like to know what you would recommend to learn to hand sharpen on whetstones? It would need to be something simple to take camping, I have become the go-to guy when anyone in camp needs a touch up. Thank you for these videos, I have learned a wealth of knowledge from them!

The Spyderco Endura would be good for food prep.

The Benchmade presidio is my favorite

Iv used all different kinds of torx still looking for the best bits especially the t6 keeps rounding off on me, I do know how to use a tool just some knive companies puts to much loctite.

Hey DCA! I've been carrying a Benchmade Mini Loco 818 and I can't find replacement scales anywhere. Do you know where I can get some made or have suggestions for another comparable knife to help me scratch my itch?

DCA , I know you're big fan of lock bar/ Axis style locks as am I. Have you ever had an omega spring break on you?

Welcome back Mr Andersen.

Hey DCA, I’ve always carried folding knives but wanna get my first EDC fix blade, any recommendation? Preferably 3 to 4 inches and around $250 price point. By the way love your videos.

Hey DCA! Any recommendations for a weak hand carry fixed blade? Already got the socp, but it lacks in all-round cutting capabilities. Thank you so much!

Any idea for a 25 bucks folder/fixed blade ? I get to cut cables and what have you around the shop so smaller blades are ok but the handle should work with gloves.

Serious question: If Sylvester Stallone, Arnold, and Paul “Crocodile Dundee” Hogan were all showing off their knives of movie fame, what would you bring to the party to impress?

Hey DCA could you recommend some great knife and hatchet/tomahawk or saw combos for camping and bushcraft? I'm in Australia and our eucalypt timbers tends to be pretty bloody hard. Cheers mate!

Still loving my paramilitary 2 with blackened blade and copper scales. 👍 #SpydercoPM2

Try Cold steel Voyager LG, Code 4, Mini Recon 1 or Luzon Medium for best tactical implications edc which is ideal weight and under 150 bucks. Try Boker Pry-Mate, Plus Cop Tool or TOPS Pry Knife, Ontario Knife Company SP8 Spec Plus. If you want normal knife then pick Cold steel SR1 folder which is build like tank with CRKT Pryma on keychain. ☝️😎

Hi David, I have a Mora Garberg with the multi-mount sheath and I am wondering if Mora’s new survival kit will mount to it while it is in the multi-mount sheath. I couldn’t find info one way or the other anywhere. Thanks and keep up the great work!

I'm always on the hunt for my last edc knife. The one that will make me stop looking for something else. If you had to narrow ur collection to 1 edc, 1 fixed blade, 1 multi tool, what would they be?

The outro music is appreciated

Hi dca I’m looking for a very specific Victoinox sak but can’t seem to find what I’m looking for I would like 91mm body with a saw, file , large and small blade , Phillip driver , can opener , and must come with the plus scales I.e pen and pin included love you’re show and keep up the good work

What’s the best 5 EDCs for women? Small but packs a punch! Love the videos!

What switchblades did the hawks in 1979's "The Visitor" use? I'm having trouble identifying them.

DCA, im looking into knife smithing. What basic and inexpensive tools would you recommend for the beginner. Thanks

Hello KnifeCenter, Seth and DCA. I absolutely love the Hogue Deka. Especially and specifically its size. What other knives in that size range would you recommend. Similar styles as well. Thanks

@12:00 if you remove either or both of those two screws, just aft of the compression lock interface, you might notice threadlocker on their threads. To be clear on which screws I'm talking about, they hold the spacer that doubles as the blade stop for when the knife is, as my wonderful woman once delightfully described, "on," as well as for when you turn your PM2 "off." In my experience* I've noticed how tightening or loosening the screws holding the stop pin can help fine-tune the folding of the knife, especially if it's difficult to find the sweet spot when adjusting the pivot. Those screws can considerably affect both opening & closing feel, and can really help when there doesn't seem to be a plate between drop-shut and too much blade play. Sometimes the knife even runs best with one screw cranked down and the other one barely snug. I believe that's why this is the one other place, beside the pivot, that the Spyderco folks use threadlocker on the compression-lock knives. This actually also applies to the Manix 2. How hard the screws are squeezing the scales/liners against the pin (located in the same relative position on that knife as the aforementioned stop pin on comp-lock blades... it also has threadlocker) can be the difference between being able to finger-flick it open or having action like a friction folder. *I'm not what I would call an expert. This is all just stuff I've come up with, after disassembling and adjusting about 20 Compression Lock™ knives, of a total of about 50 folders (95% Spyderco, with a couple of CRKTs & a Bugout) and D/A OTFs from MT, BM, GT, and Heretic, plus the new Pentagon OTF from SOG (I'm actually working on a fix for the bottom-edge blade drag issue as of late). With that in mind, I might absolutely be mistaken about some of what I said above. If you believe I'm wrong about something, I would love to know... then we can both can be right about it. 😁 I hope this helps somebody!

What are some good boot knife options? I’d like a decent quality knife that has a sheath that works well for boot carry. Thanks!

Pm2 for years and I put them through hard work.

That SIG 320 has been on my mind lately... That blade shape is my sweet spot. Has anyone here owned it already? What's your opinion? Worth the money?

Question, do you recommend running a lower degree angle, higher. Or same as stock on the edge? Stone, diamond or stropp?

Hey DCA, there are a ton of different blade shapes now for different purposes. Could you explain the best uses for common blade shapes (ie tanto, droppoint, clippoint etc) ?

Hey DCA , don’t know if you have got this question before or not but what got you interested in the nesmuk style blade shapes personal experience or just aesthetically pleasing.

THANK YOU

I have a Turret plane blade and love it. Instead of discontinuing it, they should have offered a couple more handle colors and a couple more blade steel options. It is one of the best all around options out there.

What is the best way to bring the tip on a knife that the tip has been snapped off and is it even possible to bring the tip back on a work sharp precision adjust?

Thanks for your great work, I'm thinking on to buy the paramilitary 2, but the comfort of the handle that you mantion make me wander if it worth, since in Italy it costs 180€, maybe with the flytanium micarta scales.

Manix 2 LW for hiking and food prep

how do you sharpen a victorinox skiper pro with the victorinox double sharpener

Hey david im looking for a winter nonlocker, i have a spyderco ukpk and i just remember how bad it felt when my hands are cold and i can't feel them or when i use gloves and then it's just too thin. So im looking for something thicker, one hand opening and around 75$ Thanks in advance

Hay David C. Could you tell me when you'll will get any more Microtech SOCOM ELITE'S? OR Could you lead me on to something with similar handles and all?

Hey DCA, long ago I had a Gerber bolt action knife that I really enjoyed flipping open and closed. Now I’m looking for a crossbar style lock, and had thought the Hogue Deka was going to be it. But looking through the Spyderco lineup, I see they have the Manix 2 caged ball bearing lock, and this knife doesn’t have the hideous look that many of their knives have. I’m even looking at the XL version with my larger than average hands. Can you weigh in on these for me? Thanks.

The turret has or had a plain edge version. I had one with a stonewashed blade