Which Native to Give as Gift???

[Trihonda]

OK, I need help. I had two friends work really hard at my house this weekend, chopping down and removing some trees in my backyard.

I feel it would be really nice to give them a token of my appreciation, so I've decided to give them both a nice pocket knife. I've decided on the Native. I have a Native I, with S30V steel, and I love it. However, I can't decide whether to give them an original style Native or give them the newer Native with the molded scales. I've never personally handled the newer Native IIIs, so I can't decide on which knife my friends would prefer...?

Neither of these 30-something gents are big into knives, but maybe I can convert them? In any case, the knife I give them has to be classic, useful, and stylish. So, given these criteria (and considering the people it's going to), what would you recommend?

Please vote and then post to give me some advice. Thanks.

[DFD04]

I am a huge fan of the CE version with the S30V! Made here, great steel and at a heck of a good price! The newer one is nice too, but man I love the
S30V!

[Zac]

S30V...you cannot beat that steel for all around qualities IMO and its actually affordable in the Native.

[nomaded]

I voted for the Native III.

I really like the feel of the Native III in the hand. I agree the S30V is better steel over the VG-10, but I find the ergonomics of the newer design to be much nicer.

[Dr. Snubnose]

My vote goes for the original S30V...an terrific choice for a gift!....(can I come chop trees at your house too???) Doc :D

[Dslteck]

I voted for the orig. native. I also have one and it's fantastic....but I didn't need to tell you that. Go with what you know. I'm sure with the first cut your friends make with the :spyder: they will love it. :D

[Slick]

Native 3 for me. I don't know about your friends.

S30V is not better than VG-10. It is different. For me S30V will *not* get as sharp as I like. S30V will keep the edge I don't quite like a long time. I sharpen regularly and as often as needed. VG-10 seems tougher. If your friends are not knife nuts the S30V is probably a better choice. It can get very sharp and stay sharp a long time.

On a side note, I bought a DLC native in addition my Wally World Natives and I swear the black blade Native is less chippy than Wally's. Radio Shack pocket microscope seem to bear me out.

I voted Native three but the original Native may be your best choice.

??? How about one VG-10 and one S30V and let them test the knives? Then after a while they trade off...

[spydutch]

I voted for the original.

I got rid of my Native III because I found it too thick in my pocket

[kbuzbee]

I voted for the Native III.

I really like the feel of the Native III in the hand. I agree the S30V is better steel over the VG-10, but I find the ergonomics of the newer design to be much nicer.

I agree completely. And I love the wire clip. Better in every way (to me). I'd love to see a III with S125V or M4. Man, what a knife that would be.

Lucky you and lucky friends.

Ken

[spydie fanatic]

I'd definitely go with the S30V model. As for CE or PE ...that depends on the personality of the user.

Please note that the Native S30V PE Model (DLC and non-DLC) have a slight defect. Part of the edge approx. 1-1.5mm in length near the bottom of the blade gets dulled out from contact with the inner metal part of the handle. Nothing serious, but sadly dissapointing.

I own an OIF native CE and it does not show any such defect. For this reason I suggest the CE...if going w/ the S30V.

I have never owned a native III model, so I cannot comment on them.

Regardless of what you choose to present to these hard-working friends, I'm sure they'll appreciate your generosity.

P.S. Wish my friends would present me with a spydie for helping em' out, the bums!!!