?Centofante as MBC knife?

[earthworm]

Call me old-fashioned,but the looks & balance of the Centofante & Centofante Jr. appeal to me.?Why would these not make good combat blades?They sure look'businesslike'!

[Michael Janich]

Dear Earthworm:

I also like the style and lines of the Centofante knives, however, as MBC blades they are lacking in a number of areas. First and most importantly, their locks are not MBC rated. The stresses of full-power ballistic cutting are severe and a sturdy lock is a must.

Secondly, the grind of these blades leaves the blade tips pretty thin and fragile. For a gentleman's folder, they are great and allow very detailed work with the point. For MBC use, they are simply not stout enough.

Finally, the handle shapes of the Centofante models provide little traction that would help keep one's hand from sliding forward during a thrust. Although a proper grip makes guards and finger grooves unnecessary, the smooth lines of these knives provide little extra security during thrusts.

In my opinion, the greatest quality of the Centofante designs in the straight cutting edge that extends all the way to the point. This allows for low-drag, back-cut-style cutting with the primary edge and consistent forward pressure during cutting strokes. I like this a lot - so much, in fact, that it will be a major feature of the Yojimbo design that is currently in development with Spyderco.

Thanks for your comments.

Stay safe,

mike j

[argyll]

Mike,

Would you say the same thing about the Solo2? What do you think of the Civilian or Matriarch as an MBC knife?

Best Regards,
Argyll

Wha's like us? **** few and they're a' deid!

[Michael Janich]

Dear Argyll:

I haven't personally played with a Solo2, but have seen photos of it and store displays containing them. The tapered butt on the handle is a good thing, but I'm not partial to the opening lobe or the generous relief cutout it requires. In my opinion, these compromise the quick deployment of the knife and the ability to keep the knife locked open during use.

As for the Civilian and Matriarch, they, like all other hawkbills, epitomize the "back-cut-on-the-primary-edge" style of cutting. If I were to carry a hawkbill, I'd prefer the less pronounced curve and stronger point of the Harpy. In general, however, I like knives that cut AND thrust and don't carry hawkbills for that reason.

Stay safe,


mike j

[earthworm]

I sometimes carry a Merlin as a MBC knife to backup other weapons.I agree that a straight blade that will both cut & thrust is better,but as a weak-hand blade the intimidation value of a serrated hawkbill should not be dismissed.