I'm considering purchasing a Cricket soon (possibly two, depending on the feedback in here) and woud like to get the opinion of some Spyderco experts. <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle>
First off, is there an advantage, besides visually, to go with the Aluminum handles over the FRN (and yes, I know where I can get some)?
Second, what advantages does the Cricket provide over say other smallish knives, like my personal favorite the Dragonfly or even the Delica?
I know the answers to these questions fall more in the line of personal preference, which is why I'm hoping to get a response from owners of these little guys.
One last question: what's your opinion of the liner lock? I've read mixed opinions about liner locks...
Thanks again!
-Michael
The Cricket
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Michael G73
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vampyrewolf
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1> Almite vs FRN
-Almite is better for a *wow* factor, but not as nice in EDC as FRN.
-If the cricket in Almite hadn't been discontinued, I would have gotten a FRN
2> Cricket vs Delica
-I have owned my Delica for about 2 yrs, and the Almite Cricket for about 2 months. I prefer the Delica, but when at school or work I am forced to use a small blade. Because of this my Delica is quiclky being replaced as primary EDC.
-Delica has a nice size blade, plain edge is best for this one.
-Cricket is a great little blade, very versitile, I have this in serrated and have no problems about the tip size.
3> Linerlock vs Frontlock
-Linerlock: is a LOT smoother, but not as stable(in my mind). But then again, I have only tried about 20 linerlocks in the knifestore. I like the small knives with linerlocks, as it is very easy to open and close without moving your hand position.
-Frontlock: an old design, it is reliable. I have 2 spydies with this type, a Delia and a Ladybug. Both take a wrist-snap to get the kick moving.
OVERALL opinion of the Cricket:
I've use it for about 2 months, and find it a lot more versitile than some think.
It's got a great utilitarian shape and size. Opening boxes is a snap.
I tinkered with the tension and customized it for me, and have it almost as tight as it goes. It opens smooth as ****, and as solid as a tank.
This little guy could probably take a **** of a beating and not show it(other than scratches on the Almite handle). It's a working knife, much like the rescue and native.
If I had the cash, I'd get myself a FRN plain edge to compliment the Almite serrated. One for each hand.
-Almite is better for a *wow* factor, but not as nice in EDC as FRN.
-If the cricket in Almite hadn't been discontinued, I would have gotten a FRN
2> Cricket vs Delica
-I have owned my Delica for about 2 yrs, and the Almite Cricket for about 2 months. I prefer the Delica, but when at school or work I am forced to use a small blade. Because of this my Delica is quiclky being replaced as primary EDC.
-Delica has a nice size blade, plain edge is best for this one.
-Cricket is a great little blade, very versitile, I have this in serrated and have no problems about the tip size.
3> Linerlock vs Frontlock
-Linerlock: is a LOT smoother, but not as stable(in my mind). But then again, I have only tried about 20 linerlocks in the knifestore. I like the small knives with linerlocks, as it is very easy to open and close without moving your hand position.
-Frontlock: an old design, it is reliable. I have 2 spydies with this type, a Delia and a Ladybug. Both take a wrist-snap to get the kick moving.
OVERALL opinion of the Cricket:
I've use it for about 2 months, and find it a lot more versitile than some think.
It's got a great utilitarian shape and size. Opening boxes is a snap.
I tinkered with the tension and customized it for me, and have it almost as tight as it goes. It opens smooth as ****, and as solid as a tank.
This little guy could probably take a **** of a beating and not show it(other than scratches on the Almite handle). It's a working knife, much like the rescue and native.
If I had the cash, I'd get myself a FRN plain edge to compliment the Almite serrated. One for each hand.
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Clay Kesting
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FWIW the aluminium Crickets aren't Almite, rather they are anodised. I'm no expert <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle> but I don't think the Cricket is as useful as the Dragonfly or Navigator. I just can't get as good a grip on the Cricket as I can on the latter two which both have superb ergonomics. Does that mean I'm going to sell my aluminium Cricket? No way. It's a great knife to carry in situations which aren't knife friendly and it makes an excellent introduction to design for my Year 7 classes <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle>. Since I carry mine as a light use "gentleman's folder" I prefer the aluminium model. If you know where to get these you should, even as an investment. There was some bloke asking $200 for one a while back. Highway robbery but they are likely to increase in value.
Clay
Don't worry that the world might end tomorrow, in Australia it's tomorrow already.
Edited by - Clay Kesting on 5/11/2001 8:13:53 PM
Clay
Don't worry that the world might end tomorrow, in Australia it's tomorrow already.
Edited by - Clay Kesting on 5/11/2001 8:13:53 PM
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Michael G73
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Thanks for the input.
From handling a Cricket in a store, I could tell it wasn't as ergonomic as my Dragonfly. In my experience, the Dragonfly is the best little knife (under four inches) that actually handles almost like a full sized knife. Good job, Spyderco. And because of mine, a lot of my friends have picked them up, too. <img src="wink.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle>
Anyway, despite its size, in some circles (church, family gatherings) the Dragonfly often gets responses of "Ow! That thing looks nasty!", so I'm looking to get a less obtrusive knife for these occasions- the Cricket. I like its humble appearance and non-threatening styling.
If anyone is interested, AFTER I order my aluminum Cricket I'd be happy to post the source for it. <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle> Just post here if you want me to post the address when I'm done.
Thanks again for all the input, and thanks to Sal and everyone else for making (IMHO) the best knives around. Style, function, feel, everything. A+++.
-Michael
PS: I really like the FRN handles, too... very durable. I have a super-super bright (lites up a room) keychain LED that is housed in FRN (tiny bugger, too). I've accidently stepped on it or run over it in my car and its still intact. Great stuff!
From handling a Cricket in a store, I could tell it wasn't as ergonomic as my Dragonfly. In my experience, the Dragonfly is the best little knife (under four inches) that actually handles almost like a full sized knife. Good job, Spyderco. And because of mine, a lot of my friends have picked them up, too. <img src="wink.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle>
Anyway, despite its size, in some circles (church, family gatherings) the Dragonfly often gets responses of "Ow! That thing looks nasty!", so I'm looking to get a less obtrusive knife for these occasions- the Cricket. I like its humble appearance and non-threatening styling.
If anyone is interested, AFTER I order my aluminum Cricket I'd be happy to post the source for it. <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle> Just post here if you want me to post the address when I'm done.
Thanks again for all the input, and thanks to Sal and everyone else for making (IMHO) the best knives around. Style, function, feel, everything. A+++.
-Michael
PS: I really like the FRN handles, too... very durable. I have a super-super bright (lites up a room) keychain LED that is housed in FRN (tiny bugger, too). I've accidently stepped on it or run over it in my car and its still intact. Great stuff!
Personally I like the cricket as an everyday carry. I don't care for the dragonfly for two reasons: tip up carry (I prefer tip down) and small knife with the lockback style lock (I find the smaller knives are easier to handle and use with a liner lock). As always these are just personal opinions and everyones differ but that is my 2 cents worth.
Jey
p.s.- I'd like to have their phone number also!
Jey
p.s.- I'd like to have their phone number also!
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sam the man..
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Michael G73
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Everyone who wants an aluminum handled Cricket, head on over to the following link. I just talked to them on the phone (after ordering mine) to make sure they do have them. They do indeed.
The store is called Armed Forces Merchandise Outlet (you don't have to be in the Armed Forces to shop there, though).
Enjoy- and let me know (via posts) how things fare for you all.
http://www.afmo.com/cfdocs/pdid.cfm?PDID=683
The store is called Armed Forces Merchandise Outlet (you don't have to be in the Armed Forces to shop there, though).
Enjoy- and let me know (via posts) how things fare for you all.
http://www.afmo.com/cfdocs/pdid.cfm?PDID=683
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Michael G73
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Looked at only knives on the site. Wasn't pleased to see that they carry two brands that carry only ripoff knives. The AFNO, or whatever, has the first model listed as the "Harpy". A $10 special. So how many people are going to buy that, instead of the Spyderco Harpy? How many will read the acknowledged Spyderco form, and when the "Fury" proves to be a POS even suspect that all Spydercos are like it?
Of course, the eternal Taylor/S&W is there too. ****! I wish outfits didn't carry such brands. It makes me suspect their basic honesty as a company. Be damned if I'll spend a nickel with them!
Stare
Of course, the eternal Taylor/S&W is there too. ****! I wish outfits didn't carry such brands. It makes me suspect their basic honesty as a company. Be damned if I'll spend a nickel with them!
Stare
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Michael G73
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I haven't received mine yet (odd, since I was the first one here to order one that I know of) but I got my email confirmation yesterday. After reading your comments I sent a reply back asking them to ensure me the product they sent was the aluminum handled one.
I had called to find this out before, and was told "yes", but now I want a double-check.
I'll keep you all posted.
-Michael
I had called to find this out before, and was told "yes", but now I want a double-check.
I'll keep you all posted.
-Michael
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Michael G73
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Well, I know I'm bummed. When emailed, they told me they had them, but when I had called, no one knew for sure. I apologize to everyone who followed my link. In 3 years I've never had a bad internet experience till now, and I had to share it with fellow honest people. Sorry, all.
Perhaps the demand for an aluminum Cricket is high enough that Spyderco would consider a sprint run? I personally don't like the feel of the FRN version- and have heard similar sentiments about the two in comparison.
What about it, decision makers at Spyderco? Do you have enough people asking that you could produce some more- even on a limited run?
Thanks to Spyderco, and my apologies to fellow forumites for not being COMPLETELY CERTAINLY informed before I posted that link.
-Michael
Edited by - TheMacGuy on 5/30/2001 2:53:41 PM
Perhaps the demand for an aluminum Cricket is high enough that Spyderco would consider a sprint run? I personally don't like the feel of the FRN version- and have heard similar sentiments about the two in comparison.
What about it, decision makers at Spyderco? Do you have enough people asking that you could produce some more- even on a limited run?
Thanks to Spyderco, and my apologies to fellow forumites for not being COMPLETELY CERTAINLY informed before I posted that link.
-Michael
Edited by - TheMacGuy on 5/30/2001 2:53:41 PM