PM2 steel, only one knife

[mreagan]

I’d like to buy only one more knife, a PM2. I have a WATU for EDC at the office that I love, a Siren for fishing (en route), an the best, a Native 5 for everything. I’d like to get a large carry. While the Shaman is great from reviews, the Pm2 has more options and availability. Thoughts on REX45 currently available or wait for a cru? Edge retention and toughness are primary considerations, as I have a Siren. Is there really a big difference between the two, or should I get one at the best price? Thanks.

Matt

[mreagan]

Correction. I will be picking some Mules, and maybe a Native 5 spirit run if it hits the right boxes.

[Matus]

I am yet to inflict any relevant damage to my k390. I think I would be equally happy with the new CruWear - especially given that they seem to have a fairly high HRC and perform very well. Plus not being a Sprint run or exclusive is always an advantage.

[prndltech]

Full spyderedge. Or a black/black s30v.

[vivi]

Rex45 is a very nice steel with excellent edge retention, I'm sure you'd be happy with it.

Seems between the Watu and Siren you have some pretty corrosion resistant options, so something like Rex45 or M4 would be a good pick for the PM2 IMO.

[Matus]

Just as a motivation :)

https://youtu.be/a-YPAEXxkbY

[abbazaba]

REX45 is fantastic and will not disappoint in anything other than corrosion resistance IME.

Only one more? And then one more... Ha! I only bought knives one at a time too

[wrdwrght]

If toughness is a chief concern, don’t dismiss 52100. PM2s in this steel can be had in the secondary market.

While no slouch in edge-retention, 52100 certainly isn’t K390, Rex45, or even Cruwear. But its sharpening-response includes the telltale stickiness (right there with LC200N). With its small carbides, 52100 can be taken to a scary-sharp edge [EDIT TO ADD: in the field with just a spare brown Sharpmaker rod].

In a utility knife with a pronounced distal taper like the PM2, I suggest that toughness and sharpening-response are a reassuring combination for a challenging work-environment.

Could you go harder steels in a PM2? Of course. And I have. But if I could have just one PM2, I’d go 52100.

[kobold]

+1 for Rex45. That flimsy part of micarta around the compression lock on the new cruwear model is deterring me.

[z1r]

+1 for Rex45. That flimsy part of micarta around the compression lock on the new cruwear model is deterring me.

A lot of people obsess over this but in use, it isn't (hasn't been) an issue. It's not like you apply much pressure in that area during use so I see it as a non-issue.

[Wandering_About]

REX 45 is pretty cool stuff. So is CruWear. I say get the REX 45 now and CruWear later down the road if you want to give it a try too!

[Manixguy@1994]

One more knife ? Ha ha ha ha ! PM2 knives can be habit forming to some . I’m down to just my lefty but hoping to see a reissue of the Cutlery Shoppe Wharnie . I would consider as suggested to try a non stainless and mix it up a bit . Hope you find what you are looking for . MG2

[RevMike]

I'll second 52100 but when they pop up on the secondary market they are usually rather overpriced. You might get lucky with one. The 52100 combo blade PM2 is a real workhorse. If I had to pick now with steels currently available I'd probably grab one in Rex45.

[gull wing]

Any idea when the Para 2 Cruwear will be out?

[kobold]

+1 for Rex45. That flimsy part of micarta around the compression lock on the new cruwear model is deterring me.

A lot of people obsess over this but in use, it isn't (hasn't been) an issue. It's not like you apply much pressure in that area during use so I see it as a non-issue.

I think it is a.) too early to say and b.) that it depends on the grip.

Time will tell how that area fatigues in use and how it will resist prolonged wear and tear.
I leave it to the early adopters to answer these questions for me. At least half a year or a full year from now.

[z1r]

Fair point. If it proves to not be durable, the steel alone makes it worth of custom handles. I know that for me, this will never be an issue. But for those that may EDC a PM2, it could prove to be, only time will tell.

[kobold]

I like custom scales. A little bit too much. :-)

[kadinh]

I have loved my Cru-Carta model. My vote is for that.

[ZrowsN1s]

I know one shop that still has crucarta pm2's, 245 +15 shipping +tax

[anycal]

I don’t have a PM2 in REX 45, but my Native 5 in that steel has has been used pretty hard… for a small folder.

In PM2, K390 is still a favorite,