I have read more good reviews than bad ones on it. I honestly think mine is a stinker. JJ loves his, and Jeff Randall got 5 production models and said they were all good. I will get another one and test it out. Sometimes, you just get a lemon, you know. If you like the design, I say go for it. My review is worthless if my knife was not typical. Gianni and RYP have both pledged to make it right. Go for that HEST if that's what you want. That's what I want, too....only not one so rough.

The 0551 (limited release) and 0550 (production, not yet released) are Hinderer designed, produced by Zero Tolerance.

The design for a flipper has been mentioned by ZT and Hinderer, but no other information released.

I actually mentioned the pocket clip issue to the ZT/Kershaw rep on bladeforum and the response was that Kershaw will have more models in the future with a deep clip. So far the ZT 780 does have the deep clip.

Vic,stop [censored] footing around. Tell us what you REALLY think! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" />

I really think the one I got may not be representative. I have another one coming in and will do a complete review of it.

VIC: I hope this one is "AS ADVERTISED" and works out for you.

If it doesn't you DO have a large chopper that is guaranteed against any INTENTIONAL damage,right? Have you ever heard the MY knife will chop YOUR knife? <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

I picked up a CRKT M21-04 the other day. I am not normally a fan of CRKT but a big folder with a recurve blade in AUS-8. I got a screaming deal. So far I am liking it. I was surprised that it was shaving sharp from the factory. In a strange way it reminds me of a folding HRLM.

I have an old CRKT M1 love the knife

Vic
I could not believe some of the replies you got over on BF.
I didn't know that a PHD was required to open a folder

LOL. Yes, BF can be a "Hostile Environment" at times. I had two pages telling me how to open a knife. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Hey,I know,did you try loosening the pivot pin?
OR hold the knife in an uncomfortable position,
how about put some heatshrink on the stud?
I had to laugh when I finally got through that thread.
You definately got a lemon,I'm fairly sure the next one will meet your expectations.
I say "fairly sure" cus ya never know.

Well, I will let you know how the HEST folder is when it gets here, probably late next week or beginning of the following week. Should be here by the time of my spring break.