Delica or Endura ZDP-189?

[Bruce Mack]

I ordered a new Endura ZDP-189 but received a Delica (same steel) in error. The vendor will make it right. However I’m looking at the Delica and thinking “hmmmm...”
I have an Endura v-toku relegated to the kitchen because of mediocre edge retention. The Delica is small by comparison but seems a better EDC because of its size and thinner blade, 0.09 vs. 0.13. I use my knives for pleasure, not in the woods or for work.
To anyone owning both - what would you do?

[JonLeBlanc]

I only own a Delica, and it's a great little knife, but I'd say it is indeed little for my preferences. If I were in your shoes I'd get it swapped out for the Endura, but hey if you're liking the Delica, keep on liking it!

[dan31]

Give the Delica a chance. I think you will appreciate the edc benefits of lighter, smaller in the pocket and thinner blade stock.

[Accutronman]

Having multiple Delicas and Enduras in ZDP, definitely go with the Endura.

[TomAiello]

I own both. I'd keep the Delica. ZDP really shines for small, precise blades (like the Delica). I love it in the Dragonfly, for example, but my ZDP endura is basically just sitting in a drawer.

[kwselke]

A ZDP-189 Delica is my most carried knife. Second most carried is a VG-10 Endura. The Delica is one of the best slicers I own. The Endura is a good slicer too, but the thinner blade stock of the Delica makes it outshine the Endura on properly sized jobs. ZDP can be challenging to sharpen, but when it is done right, it stays sharp for a long time. If you have a V-Toku2 Endura, don't have a Delica and can get a deal on the ZDP Delica that was shipped in error, I think you should opt for deal on the ZDP Delica shipped in error. You can always plan on a ZDP Endura later.

[standy99]

Keep it and get the Endura like you want too, you don’t need us to justify it

[Lozoot]

Depends on your preferences, but I have 4 Delicas that all see regular carry, and one endura that sits in a case mostly. I just find the Delica to be a better EDC for my needs.

[Doc Dan]

I have Delicas and Enduras. The Delica gets far more use and carry time. I would keep the Delica and get an Endura later.

[ABX2011]

If the Delica is comfortable in your hand, I'd keep it. Thinner stock, slices better. Shorter blade gives more tip control.

[Bruce Mack]

Thanks to all. I have decided to keep the Delica. Your observations helped me decide.

[Jazz]

I really wish there was a Delica wharnie ZDP 189. That’s what I’d suggest then.

[Cambertree]

I really wish there was a Delica wharnie ZDP 189. That’s what I’d suggest then.

That'd be a beast of a cutter. The HAP40 Wharncliffe Delica is one of my all time favourites for warehouse type work.

[Jazz]

That'd be a beast of a cutter. The HAP40 Wharncliffe Delica is one of my all time favourites for warehouse type work.

Maybe Sal and Eric will read this and hook us up. :cool:

[Wartstein]

I am an Endura guy and would always prefer it over the Delica.
That being said: If you really NEVER benefit from the longer Endura blade and it feels too long in your pocket: Go Delica, it is not a bad knife either, for me just a bit behind the Chap the second best small Spydie, and clearly "better" (for me) than for example Native, Para 3, Sage... and you´re right, the thin bladestock is a huge plus.

[TomAiello]

I really wish there was a Delica wharnie ZDP 189. That’s what I’d suggest then.

That'd be a beast of a cutter. The HAP40 Wharncliffe Delica is one of my all time favourites for warehouse type work.

HAP40 Wharnie is my favorite Delica, but I'd rather have it in ZDP. :)

[Cambertree]

Maybe Sal and Eric will read this and hook us up. :cool:

Yeah hopefully - these Wharny style blades you campaigned for seem to have been really popular.

HAP40 Wharnie is my favorite Delica, but I'd rather have it in ZDP. :)

The Seki HAP40 seems to behave like an ‘improved’ simple carbon steel to me, in its balance of desirable properties.

And yeah, now that you mention it, ZDP189 is just about my favourite PM stainless. It’s a wonderful steel.

Bruce Mack: I’ll be interested in your experience with ZDP, once you put it to work.

Unlike some of the other high carbide PM stainlesses, it seems to work equally well with a coarse or very refined edge.