I know this is a Bussekin forum, but since they won't make a bombproof folder (Rat Trap doesn't count since I've only seen pictures of one)....I thought this would be okay. Tom / Randy if I'm violating a rule ... nuke the thread and shame me publicly. I like tar and feathers.

What's the verdict on ZT folders?

I don't think it will be Verboten, but I still like the tar and feather idea. I guess it is just the allure of something you don't get to do every day.

Oh I forgot to say that almost everyone that I have heard has a ZT, really likes them.

They make a folder that suits about every purpose in such a blade. I have a couple (301, 350 and 550) but for a long time they have been rare and expensive here (thanks to the new repealed import regulations from 2011) so they were not economical. Some will like the styling, some will not, such is the way of the world. They are however well made from quality material with an excellent warranty. If you find one that you like in hand then I think you can't go wrong. For the record my favourite is the 350.

I like some more than others and have had...about 5 or so and have 1 now, the 0452. It's a beauty...but big for me.

The 0770 is a great folder, more lightly built compared to most other ZTs, but plenty tough and is a great cutter. Most of the other ZTs I've had are are to thick/hard use for my needs. I tend to prefer better cutters/slicers for my folders.

Thanks for the replies (and offer to T&F me).

I had a 700 I bought on clearance several years ago, but the funky design didn't work for me.

I'm thinking about adding one for "neighborhood walks" but have read they're typically very heavy / bulky. I recently acquired a nice gentlemen's folder through the extreme generosity of a friend and it caused me to rethink my cheap Spyderco folders (Delica4 and Endura4).

ZT seems to be in that sweet spot between "cheap" and "overly expensive".

On paper I like: 301, 350, 550, 561.

Andy said he likes the 350 (most cost effective on my list). Rich likes the 770 which I hadn't researched. I'll have to look into that model.

BTW I ordered a 350 with black blade, but am thinking about a higher end model too.

Yes, the 301 has a great "presence" but the 350 is my practical choice.

Mine has the Tiger Stripe blade, it certainly also looks the business...

Thought was finally going to make the step up from the Kershaw Blur to a ZT 350. A week or so ago they where on sale for $80 (pre-order) on Amazon. But, I fell asleep before placing the order. When I woke up I they where back in stock and regular price .

Stinking OT means you have the money but never the time!

But, I love my Blur and have always wanted to step up to the ZT knives. The price is just a little too steep for me to make the jump. And after a guy dropped my favorite Blur in a reservoir it's a bit harder for me to see edcing a $150-$350 knife.

I paid substantially more for my 350 than $80. Report to follow upon arrival.

I held a 566 at Smokey Mountain Knife Works back in May last year and ALMOST bought it. BUT considering how much that vacation cost us I had to pass. We didn't want to start using the Credit card again.

I bought a 566 a couple of years ago when Midway put em on sale for $100. I exist in an urban environment so a folder is the only EDC option for me. I wanted something in Elmax to upgrade from a Kershaw S30V folder (though it's also been a great knife). I clip it to my hip everyday and I've been happy with it. It's kept its edge well, though I admit I haven't abused it.