Lion Steel

[Tiley]

I made the mistake of skimming through the U.K.-friendly folding knife section on the Heinnie website and came across a Lion Steel folder that appeals on grounds of aesthetics as well as steel choice and so on. I know nothing about the maker and was wondering whether their knives are good, bad, indifferent? The price point suggests quality but I was wondering if anyone here has had experience of them, in the pocket and in the field.

The model that tempts me is this one:
https://heinnie.com/lion-steel-bestman-micarta-single-blade/

Any feedback or guidance would be very welcome and will determine whether I press the 'add to cart' button!

Many thanks!

 

[mikehill]

Lionsteel are great quality. Had several and still have a M4 … my favourite fixed blade ever !

 

[Athos]

I’ve got one, it’s well made and M390 is great steel. Very sturdy, I’d recommend it although I prefer my Spyderco UKPK for everyday carry as it sits more nicely in the pocket.

 

[Allans865]

I have this exact folder, as well as the Lionsteel M4 in M390 and the M5 in CPM 3V.

All excellent blades and blade steel, although they are a but of a bugger to sharpen unless you have diamond stones.

The folder is my favourite EDC, as I find it just the right size for a pocket knife. And the fact you don't have to constantly sharpen it as you would a swiss army knife or similar.



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[C_Claycomb]

I rate Lion Steel very highly. I have two of their fixed blades, a locking folder, all in Sleipner the Thrill slip joint and the Micarta Bestman with single blade in M390. The latter is a my usual office EDC. I have a number of other EDC options, including a Spyderco S110V UKPK, Viper Dan1 and a couple of Boker plus. The Bestman is a good size, unassuming, feels nice, and cuts well.

I think so much of it that I bough one for a friend, and guided another friend to it as his first and only non-kitchen knife. Viper make some nice looking knives, but the Key model I bought as an option for the second friend was a total nail buster and was returned.

 

[Tiley]

It all sounds very positive! Thanks, all, for your input. I think I will click on that dreaded button...

 

[Tiley]

I hate to admit it, but I haven't 'done the deal' - yet. I was distracted by this alternative to the Lion Steel Bestman. As before, I was wondering if anyone had any experience of it and whether it would be a good or better alternative:

Benchmade 318 Proper Green Micarta

Benchmade 318 Proper Green Micarta

heinnie.com

Again, I'd appreciate any input before I commit myself to one or the other - but definitely not both!

Many thanks!

 

[mikehill]

Never had one, but most folks who I know who have, say they are overpriced and move it on.

 

[mikehill]

JE Made are top quality but harder to get hold of

 

[Sebc]

I've heard the proper has a pretty rubbish back spring although I've not had one myself.

 

[Souledman]

I have heard is that too. At least if it’s from HH you could send it back.

 

[Tiley]

JE Made are top quality but harder to get hold of

The two offered by Heinnie look the part but are priced just a little too high for my liking. I'm never sure about blades that have holes in them, either - one of the reasons I've never got on with Spyderco's offerings. Thank you anyway for the suggestion.

 

[Tiley]

It sounds as though Lion Steel wins the day. I might as well 'add to cart' and see what happens...

 

[mikehill]

I doubt you’ll regret it, even if you do it’ll sell quickly. As regards the JE … the scagel slot is brilliant to open

 

[C_Claycomb]

LS Bestman vs Bm Propper.
For an extra £5 you get M390 instead of S30V
you get better cutting geometry with a thinner edge and higher grind, and you get titanium bolsters instead of just Micarta scales. Personally I think the radiused liners and spring are a better finish than the Benchmade too.
A friend has the Propper and it’s okay, but didn’t feel amazing, it wasn’t something I felt oozed desirability, unlike the Lion Steel.

 

[Sebc]

The one I'd love is the lionsteel barlow with the sheepfoot. Looks amazing but you can't seem to get it in the uk.