1. Heftier. I am used to carrying fixed blades with either full, or skeletonized tangs. The 'Zaan more closely mimics the weight and feel of similarly sized Bussekins and Barkies.
2. Smoother action out of the box. No, it is not as smooth as a blade with a newly oiled and loosened pivot screw, but it is smoother than my relatively unused large Sebbie.
3. Blade indentation along the spine. Serves a dual purpose in allowing one to choke up on the blade and to protect the fingers as a pseudo guard when the glass breaker is deployed for use.
4. No cutout for the lockbar. Although it makes one handed closing more difficult, I prefer that the release mechanism remain unexposed under use.
5. Stonewash. The finish is a relatively fine stonewash (unlike the roughshod XM-18) and as such, benefits from a good balance between corrosion resistance and ease of maintenance.
6. Quieter action. The clack earned from the ceramic ball against the lockface is there, but the acoustical signature has indeed been reduced.
7. Less aggressive jimping. Still provides for excellent purchase without biting into the digits under hard use.
8. Cross checkering. Provides a noticeable improvement in grip when handled in various positions.
