SF's Delta versus L.E.O knife

[jboydjr]

I am looking for my first EDC knife and have always believed that (in most cases) spending a little extra money is cheaper in the long run, if that means you are getting better quality and craftsmanship. That being said, I am quite attracted to the Delta, but would like to hear from anyone who may be able to guide me. I am totally confused about the different types of materials (steel and alloys), construction, and if a knife like the Delta is reasonably priced for what it delivers. I think the design is quite aesthetically pleasing, and it certainly looks like it is versatile. Can't figure out why SF made the L.E.O. when it is so similar (but not as handsome IMAO) as the Delta.

Thanks,


Jim

 

[PoliceScannerMan]

PM replied....:wave:

 

[beautifully-stupid]

Between the two...

I would choose the delta.

• It's got nicer lines
• Integrated wrench in the handle
• Glass Breaker
• Opening hole (if you expect to wear gloves, you might appreciate this function)
• It also seems to have a more functional screwdriver than the LEO. (unless the LEO's advertised screwdriver is hidden somewhere)

the only thing you seem to lose is the Safety Cuff cutter/ crimper of the LEO, and the blade seems more like a modified sheep's foot.

The LEO looks more visible and safety oriented, while the Delta, looks more like a tactical do it all.

Personally: I'd pony up the extra 25 bucks for the thumb hole since I wear gloves in the winter.

Whether the knife is reasonably priced is subjective.

Are you a LEO, or a plastic surgeon?

do you require hard working knives, or will this be a shelf queen.

do you have any problems with actually using a $400+ knife?

These knives offer plenty of functionality for the price, and if I had a need for one, I'd buy one. But if it were my choice... I'd go with a sebenza and an atwood piece, or a small SOG multitool as a companion/beater tool.

What's that old addage:
Two is one, and one is none.

 

[CLHC]

I have the SF.Delta.FCUK and has been my EDC since acquiring it some months ago along with the Pro-Tech Runt. Anyhou it does what it it was made to do like any other edged tool out on the market. Guess it boils down to one's personal preference, usage and money.

Right now I'm looking into one of Darrel Ralph's AXD 5.5! Hmmm, don't know if he's still accepting orders on this one though. . .

 

[insaned]

Since I'm a tactical lover, go for the delta. that knife is just... great!

 

[Ignoramus]

With the budget you have, I personally would consider some other names. Not that there's anything wrong with the Delta, but I personally feel like I could get a better value elsewhere with that budget. Some Alternatives:

Rick Hinderer XM-18
Chris Reeve Sebenza
Strider
Several of Spydercos or Benchmades
Darrell Ralph designs

Of the 2 that you're currently looking at, I'd go with the Delta, I find it aesthetically appealing also. I'd check out Blade Forums and ask over there. You'll get way more answers.

 

[jbosman1013]

no one seems to suggest Emerson knives and I don't know why. IMO they are very well made and feel very good in your hand the wave is also a plus. As for the SF delta it may be a good knife but I think it is overpriced for what you get and kinda ugly.

 

[Ignoramus]

no one seems to suggest Emerson knives and I don't know why. IMO they are very well made and feel very good in your hand the wave is also a plus. As for the SF delta it may be a good knife but I think it is overpriced for what you get and kinda ugly.

Emerson knives are great quality and the wave is a definite plus. I personally don't find them very aethetically appealing and I'm not a fan of liner locks. However, there is nothing wrong with Emerson's liner locks at all. I favor the larger Spyderco "waves" over the smaller Emerson "waves". It should be mentioned for those who aren't familiar with the Syderco Waved models, Emerson is given credit for that particular feature.

 

[Wraith]

I can not do enough to reccomend Emerson knives. If you buy an EKI Knife it will last you a lifetime of really hard use. You can also take it apart yourself with tools you have available and it'll still be covered by the warranty.

 

[shrap]

I am looking for my first EDC knife and have always believed that (in most cases) spending a little extra money is cheaper in the long run, if that means you are getting better quality and craftsmanship.

Diminishing returns kicks in way, way before $400. I'd say after $150, you're paying for the company's marketing costs or getting fit-n-finish that doesn't effect the knife's usability.

What exactly is it about these knives that you like/desire? Is it the multi-tool aspect, or the image? I ask because if it's only going to used to cut things, I there are much better knives at less than half the price. Both of the knives you mentioned are "tactical" knives which are generally thicker, heavier, and have worse blade geometry than knives designed primarily for cutting.

In terms of materials/technology:

S30V is a good knife steel, but it doesn't command a high price by itself. Spyderco's $50 Native has S30V, as does almost all of Benchmade's $150 folders.

Frame locks aren't special unless the knife is well-designed. Technically speaking, it is a last-generation lock. Many people including myself prefer the newest generation of locks like the Benchmae Axis, SOG Arc, and Spyderco Ball Bearing lock.

SOG also has a bunch of knives with the built in cord/line cutter.

You haven't really mentioned what purpose this knife will serve. If you want a folding toolkit, a multitool will serve better. If you want a very sharp knife, any number of knives at one-fourth the cost will serve better.

I also think both those knives are really, really ugly.

 

[GarageBoy]

The only SF knife I'd consider is Ryan's Echo..CPM3V