SS4 pretty easy for me.

I LOVE SR-101 and if given the same design in a knife this size for $40 - $50 less, it might be a tougher call.

But, the SS4 does have INFI which adds corrosion resistance, and INFI is just a nicer steel in the end.

And they are NOT the same design.

I like every little design aspect improvement on the SS4 more than the Bandicoot.

The mudder grips work a LOT better for my large to XL sized hands. Those with smaller hands might like the Bandicoot just fine.

However, I also prefer the blade shape on the SS4 over the Bandicoot's.

The Bandicoot's blade is more like a sharpened pick. But, it can be made to slice well.

For my uses, the shape of the SS4's blade is much more versatile to me for cutting.

So, not including price (actually - even considering "issued" price), I take the SS4 in all relevant catagories. I sold both Bandicoots I owned years ago now.

I still have a 2nd Gen Howler that I will probably keep, but I like my SS4 more than the Howler as well. There really isn't much (if anything I can think of) the Howler can do that the SS4 can't. And the SS4 carries easier.

The HRLM is different enough not to compare to the SS4.

I will EASILY take the SS4 over the Meaner, AD, GW, Swamp Warden and many other similar sized blades as well.

Make the AD without a choil and with either no Talon hole or a VERY small Talon Hole and the improved AD would be a VERY strong contender.

But, here is an interesting question: I know most everyone would chose the SS4 because it is INFI. But, the MPLE is a very worthy design AND satin. 154CM is actually a great steel for this knife.

But, to even the playing field, if the MPLE were INFI and satin and the SS4 were INFI and Satin, then which???? I think most would still choose the SS4 with more blade, but I think the MPLE is still way under-appreciated.

.