Dragonfly-2 G-10 vs. FRN

[this_is_nascar]

Since the G-10 scales are heavier than the FRN version, why would someone get the G-10 version instead of the FRN version of the Dragonfly-2? I have the FRN version and am trying to figure out if I really want/need the G-10 version.

[akaAK]

It is not always a weight issue, not sure if you have handled both but the G10 version feels much sturdier (granted it is a small knife).

Also I like the G10 color and full liners so it was a pretty easy decison, I got both.

[Blerv]

Different grip, different weight, liners help prevent pivot flex.

[Donut]

I have both and prefer the FRN.

Some people believe that the G-10 one has better finish. Some people believe that the G-10 feels stronger or they like the little bit of extra weight.

[this_is_nascar]

Correct, I've never handled the G-10 version. I only have the FRN one. I don't know anyone locally with one to hold and really don't want to drop the coin just to see if I'd like it better than my FRN version.

[sinkerslider]

I dig all of my Dragonfly's, but the G-10 version is definitely more robust than the FRN versions. It's heavier but the difference is negligible, because the G-10 is still only around 2 oz. You can't go wrong with any of them, but any Dragonfly lover should have the G-10 model as part of their collection. It is rock solid.

[xceptnl]

I have both and must admit I enjoy using the G-10 version much more. Think of it as a Caly 2 almost. That is how I would compare it. I agree the lighter weight is awesome on the FRN however the overall solid feel of the g-10 inspires more confidence IMO.

That is why it is the knife in my signature picture.

[suedeface]

I couldn't think of a reason to carry anything but an FRN version of the dragonfly. It's just so light! The G-10 and SS versions would be great for a gentleman's carry, but for EDC, the FRN wins out for me every time. G-10...too expensive IMO....SS handles are way too heavy for a knife this small. Either way, the DF is a great design no matter which handle material you choose.

[Holland]

It is not always a weight issue, not sure if you have handled both but the G10 version feels much sturdier (granted it is a small knife).

Also I like the G10 color and full liners so it was a pretty easy decison, I got both.

hahah :D

personal preference, for that size of knife i would rather have FRN as i will not be using it for anything that would possibly ruin it

[this_is_nascar]

Thanks for all the feedback everyone. I'm still on the fence as to whether to purchase a G-10 version or not. Part of me is thinking that I'd never use this knife hard enough that the FRN can't handle and the other part of me is thinking it's even a better knife with the stability adding liners, etc. Really for me, weight and cost is a big concern. Maybe I'll find someone local to me that will allow me to handle theirs, before I drop the coin for this knife.

[The Deacon]

Am sure snob appeal enters into it for some. There are folks here, and on other forums, who have said they consider FRN "cheap looking". I'm not a huge fan of the Dragonfly's ergonomics but, in spite of loving "high end" knives and owning several different versions of the Stretch that would fit that description, my black FRN/VG-10 one still gets carried a couple times a week.

[Blerv]

Ply-peel g10 may be grippy but it's far from the upper echelon of class (IMHO). There is more design sophistication in bi-directional texturing despite its pedestrian material.

The ultimate response to FRN feeling cheap is that it is; a Dragonfly2 costs as much as 3 pizzas. The most expensive is the Stretch FRN with ZDP-189 at like $110. To some, highway robbery. To others, the pinnacle of a working modern pocket knife for an approachable price.

[Donut]

I almost forgot about the Nishijin Dragonfly. That's a pretty nice one. For some reason I don't end up carrying it as much as my FRN Dragonfly.

[kbuzbee]

I almost forgot about the Nishijin Dragonfly. That's a pretty nice one. For some reason I don't end up carrying it as much as my FRN Dragonfly.

For me, it's the clip. I really wish it had the wire clip. I'm guessing there was concern over it chipping?

Ken

[Ferris Wheels]

I prefer what used to be my G10 dragonfly over my FRN dragonfly but my wife has permanently requisitioned the G10 dragonfly. Still love the FRN version and haven't found a reason to get another G10 one and I get to handle it occasionally when it is due for a sharpening.

[this_is_nascar]

In less than 24-hours, assuming Santa was nice to me, I'll have a new DF-2 G10 in my hands. I love my FRN version, so I'm really excited with anticipation of owning a G10 version.

[jmh58]

Good Luck!!!! ^^^^ John

[TomAiello]

I have a ZDP dragonfly in FRN and another ZDP dragonfly I put Cuscadi G-10 scales on.

For my edc, I prefer the G-10 because I tend to carry around 10 pounds of gear anyway, so the weight difference is negligible. For "dressed up" stuff, I like the FRN because of the weight.

Honestly, I think that FRN is radically underrated. I like the feel of G-10 better, but honestly I think that's more esthetic than functional. I've been outdoors in sub-freezing temperatures and rain, and still have yet to slip on my FRN handle. I'm not sure if I'd have issues on a larger knife (that I might crank on harder) but on the dragonfly, the FRN seems to do the job just fine.

[glbpro]

I'm sure you'll enjoy it - I recently purchased a G10 dragonfly and was amazed at the fit and finish, the best I have ever seen from the Seki City factory.

Merry Christmas in advance

[jackknifeh]

Thanks for all the feedback everyone. I'm still on the fence as to whether to purchase a G-10 version or not. Part of me is thinking that I'd never use this knife hard enough that the FRN can't handle and the other part of me is thinking it's even a better knife with the stability adding liners, etc. Really for me, weight and cost is a big concern. Maybe I'll find someone local to me that will allow me to handle theirs, before I drop the coin for this knife.

I like to have a knife that is 3 times as strong as the average task I want it to do. That way it will ALWAYS do the normal job I do with it. Also, it can easily handle jobs a bit tougher than you would normally do with that knife. IMO most Spyderco's can handle a little bit of what would be called abuse if you did it every day. But once in a while It's ok. That's why I'd rather have the G-10 D'fly. It's going to be a stronger knife I think because of the liners. I don't think FRN or G-10 materials is a big deal. Both are top shelf. That is just a preferance issue. So for strength, the G-10 is probably better. Consider this. You are considering a G-10 D'fly. It costs $84 on CS.com now. I checked. :) I assume you are considering that price range. If you had about $35 cash IN ADDITION to the money you are considering spending would you get the G-10 D'fly? If your answer is yes sell the FRN D'fly on ebay, BF or anywhere. Trade it with some cash for a G-10 model on BF. If your FRN D'fly is in decent shape you have $35. Get the G-10 model, sell the FRN knife. Of course if your hope is to own both forever, this plan doesn't work. Also, some people think about the money they already spent for the FRN D'fly. To me, that money is GONE. Doesn't exist. It doesn't need to exist. You have a knife. Sell it bevore or after you get the knife you want. This may not sound financially smart. I don't buy the knives I want to be financially smart. I buy it even if I need to sell another one to get the knife I want. I only want knives that I will use though. Collecting is a different deal.

Just a thought.

Jack