so far i like mine, i have the ad20.5 in carbon fiber with s35vn. i removed the thumbstud and the pocket clip. its so thin and lightweight but it feels really sturdy, i am constantly playing with it for over 2 weeks now, by that i mean, on the couch, in the chair at my desk, walking down the hallway...
@charlesholland6851 Жыл бұрын
I have the grivory and textured titanium versions. Love the things. And as an owner of multiple $400-$525 knives, the grivory doesn’t feel cheap to me. I think many people are spoiled to hate by titanium Chinese knives for less than 200 bucks. The Demkos are definitely overpriced though.
@JoelHunterGun Жыл бұрын
I have both Demkos mentioned in this vid and use them every day for work (cutting plastic pallet straps, boxes, zip ties, etc...) for around two years now. By far-- and this wasn't the case at first--my favorite edc is the Cold Steel Engage. The handle size, thickness, and shape with the full choil just kick a**. It's s35vn so I rarely have to sharpen it. When I do I just use a strop with liquid compound and it's good to go.
@jeremynedrow7003 Жыл бұрын
The ad 20.5 is crap for the price, and I would take the Spyderco any day.Spydercos heat treat is amazing and they use better steel.
@chrisjosekuehl Жыл бұрын
I got the 3v and I’m extremely happy with it, the steel has performed exceptionally well.
@charlesholland6851 Жыл бұрын
I’m a Spyderco fan. And yes Demko are overpriced. But just go take a look at the Delica and Dragonfly prices.And I think the new Efficient. Talk about overpriced? And the knives jump in price every year.
@diclo3837 күн бұрын
@@chrisjosekuehl its overpriced tho.....and the rifinitures are shit.....
@4673962 Жыл бұрын
Excellent review Aaron. Looks like a great blade. I have always found I like the larger version of knives better than the smaller ones. Hope you are able to get the larger version and let us know.
@Saint_Roscoe12 күн бұрын
I’ve held off on one of these for a long time. I loved the idea, but the price for the steel offerings was too much. As of writing this, BHQ has their exclusive Ultem scale models in 20cv for $139. That’s a price point I can get behind. Snagged one and placed an order for original GOAT scales for less $$$ than the Ultem one usually goes for.
These aren't overpriced considering they are being sourced by a mom and pop company and they are competing with much bigger companies. Kudos to Andrew and his brother!
@dlrmon1 Жыл бұрын
Hopefully the Demko knives eventually follow the Cold Steel tend and prices come down. The AD20 is the one I want to try. Always thought the 20.5 was to small. But you’re talking to someone who waited almost 3 years to start buying Cold Steel again...
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
Haha right on!
@outdooranalyst8697 Жыл бұрын
Most ambidextrous knife design around. Aka it’s easy to use with your off hand. Love my Aus10 and 3v versions!
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
Glad you like it, I almost bought the 3v
@alexiusboshoff73379 ай бұрын
Great channel always very informative and professional. Got the AD 20.5 AUS 10 today. Looks can be deceiving for this knife. Once in hand It feels like quality. Demko designs are always gorgeous. Great knife! Hello, Aaron from South Africa.
@hummingmybizness Жыл бұрын
I like my 20.5s (both in 3v), but I don't carry them here in Hawaii anymore. Within 2 weeks of carrying my first one, I had rust spots forming on the blade, liners, and on the bearings despite hitting it with a light coat of oil. I cleaned all the rust off, and look forward to using the ad20.5 more when I am no longer in such a corrosive environment. For now, I EDC either a Spyderco Carribean or Cold Steel ad10 in s35vn, as neither of those have had rust issues.
@ml8067 Жыл бұрын
I agree, it's a $60 knife with a $100 lock. It is in my regular rotation but I feel like I overpaid. I do like how slim it is but overall it's underwhelming. Shame because Demko is a mad genius with locks.
@josh33025 Жыл бұрын
I love the 3v version and have a couple of them. I use the hole to slow roll it. Definitely recommend putting g10 or better scales on it to make it feel better and not like a toy.
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
Thanks for the tip! It does the take the price up very high to do all that though.
@shannonpaschal6435 Жыл бұрын
Mr. Demko likes the frn scales the best. He has actually said its probably the toughest on the market.
@andrewfournier8817 Жыл бұрын
I'm fine with my triad lock cold steels in aus10a and s35vn. They are priced better, I prefer the triad lock- it's less intrusive, and, honestly, the code 4 clip is a good competitor for the 20.5: better materials, lower price. The drop point on the AD10 and 4max series is more appealing than either the ad20 clip or sharkfoot. Tge ad20 series just doesn't do anything better for me than the older Demko besides being a fidget spinner. I don't need a fidget spinner.
@maxlvledc Жыл бұрын
The thing that really kills me about the ad20.5 is the blade grind...the thickness behind the edge is soo dumb compared to something like the air lite..which is under $60 now btw.
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
Ya that’s the whole slicyness issue
@jordantheokay316810 ай бұрын
I've been watching for a month after I came across your sr1 review. Im a fan dude I appreciate your perspective on gear. Im broke all the time I have to make my money count so my edc systems are not "instagram cute" I tend to buy cold steel, streamlight, nitcore, and I have a special affinity for turkish shotguns and handguns lol I like cheep but good stuff. I've had to save and strategize to have anything you know what I mean. I've saved money one time already from your videos. Thanks! Keep up the good work.
@gideonstactical10 ай бұрын
Thanks so much my friend!
@Ceriva09 Жыл бұрын
the irony of batoning with a folding knife while right beside is an axe😄
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
Oh for sure, just for testing purposes
@Ceriva09 Жыл бұрын
@@gideonstactical oh i know i was just kidding 😅 i actually enjoy the content and bought serval knives based on your reviews so keep up the good work
@bobjohnson1633 Жыл бұрын
When. You go into the woods with nothing but a loincloth, so you don't end up on a list, and a knife, a folder will fit in your loincloth better and you will need to start a fire, because you're in a loincloth
@Ceriva09 Жыл бұрын
@@bobjohnson1633 also is wont cut you where it hurts the most
@AugustusM-sj3rv Жыл бұрын
Layout and video production was great on this video
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching
@joshuagp78 Жыл бұрын
It's fun to fidget with, but that shark lock gets in the way when your cutting. I am used to pressing my thumb down where the shark lock is located. Still a cool lock just not a user for me.
@chiefslief18866 ай бұрын
Exactly this! I also use the thumb a lot on that spot that you mentioned. Good point!👍🏻
@don0giorgio Жыл бұрын
Hey Aaron! Thanks for the vid man. Its a good one as always. Whats that hoodie you're wearing? Great color
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
It’s the one for me the Huckberry spot. The 10 year American made flint and tinder hoodie. It’s amazing!!
@JackShen Жыл бұрын
I was lucky and got the last textured titanium CPM3v drop point version from knifecenter. I have smaller hands so the handle is fine for me. I prefer folding knives that have a blade closer to 4 inch, but I do like the demko I got. I won't be using this knife as a camping or outdoor knife, as I always prefer a fixed blade for that. It's a nice sort of office guy / gentleman's folder since it's not threatening or tactical looking. I bought it mainly cause it was a limited version and I was curious about the locking mechanism. I rotate it with other folders for EDC.
@gotsouced49433 ай бұрын
I just wish I could get my hands on the bigger version I bet the Lox way smoother and if anything I would like to have had the larger pivot 20.5 but when you start hitting that 200 to $300 mark it's hard to justify the price
@gotsouced49433 ай бұрын
Good luck getting a larger version that's my dream knife maybe where you have a knife Channel that might open up doors easier to buy one and not overpay on the secondary Market otherwise have to pay almost the same price for a Better Built 20.5
@KrissStiletto135 ай бұрын
My personal favorites are the larger AD20S and AD20. But, they're next to impossible to get. I imagine the Demkos are losing a lot by not producing enough of the larger sizes for everyone that wants one. Another great Video. :-) Peace, Stiletto :-)
@steellovingyou8673 Жыл бұрын
Hi Aaron. I love my Ad 20.5 Knife Center puke green D2 $125 on sale . On my bureau I have a small display case with the AD10 , AD15 , Pocket Bushman and AD20.5 representing the Triad , Scorpion , Ram and Shark locks , love them all. Long Live Lord DEMKO. Thanks
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
I almost bought the puke green too
@steellovingyou8673 Жыл бұрын
@@gideonstactical I was not crazy about the color before I got it but the knife was on sale so , ?? , but I don't regret it , I actually love it and since it's different , even though it's not custom it's unique so I love that aspect as well . Thanks again I've been a big fan of GT and appreciate all you do . Thanks
@taylorfishman823 Жыл бұрын
lol this guy worships and has an altar to Andrew Demko but still can’t spell his name right 🤔
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
@@steellovingyou8673 thanks for watching and appreciate you being a part of the GT family.
@steellovingyou8673 Жыл бұрын
@@taylorfishman823 sorry. Thanks for the heads up thanks
@RandysWSG Жыл бұрын
It'd be a lock I'd have to try in hand first.
@steely_mike Жыл бұрын
Great review as always .it's hard to beat the manix 2
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
It really is!
@charlessalmond7076 Жыл бұрын
Looking to try a shark lock this year. Would love to get hands on before purchase if possible.
@jsward015 ай бұрын
I have one. It was very expensive. Too small for my large hands.
@58jeffkenn Жыл бұрын
Not that it relates to these knives, but would love to hear your thoughts on the SOG Tellus FLK. Great reviews, btw, I've bought several knives based on them (via your links), most recently the Cold Steel Air Lite, my new favorite EDC!
@EastCoastMan603 Жыл бұрын
Haven’t watched the whole video. In my opinion yes. It’s awesome. I have two 3V/Ti (clip and sheep) and I just sold my manix 2 on eBay. In my opinion, 3V is Awsome…the Sharklock is probably the best designed, most simple and clean lock I’ve ever seen and, Demko is literally the lock man. New steel variants are coming out - and Taiwan constrontion is Awsome. Now I’m trying to find a US ad 20…
@tacticalcenter8658 Жыл бұрын
The manix2 is better in lots of ways and has so many steel choices and even g10/steel handle version.
@charlescollier7217 Жыл бұрын
Thanks for the review, Aaron. The bang for buck ratio is what's stopped me from getting one.
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
Totally understandable
@AaronDennis8 ай бұрын
Got an AD20.5 on sale for $120 which still feels overpriced but at least a little less overpriced. Perhaps if Demko spent less on a fancy box and pouch and used that savings to either lower the price or better yet give us G10 and perhaps 154cm steel for the same price it would feel more justified for the price.
@taylorfishman823 Жыл бұрын
Would be cool if he brought a version of the AD20 to this kind of production level for us plebeians. I’m sure it would come out at $250 or something, but that’s still a lot more accessible than what they currently are.
@KrissStiletto135 ай бұрын
I use the Shark's Fin to open and close the AD20.5, too. :-) Peace, Stiletto :-)
@freestatefellow Жыл бұрын
I’ll be interested to see your take on the Microtech MSI. Looks like an upgraded axis-style lock, full size M390 blade, and USA made.
@realbroggo Жыл бұрын
I like the design of the blade but I'm struggling with the value for FRN handles & AUS10. AUS10 is only a tad better than AUS8 so definitely budget level - same applies to D2/K110. Personally I think the design intention matches better to 3V but the cost is $$$. As you highlight, this design (like so many others) seem to have a finger choil dilemma. It's like the designer can't decide which way to go so includes a half-finger choil which is in many cases useless. If it has a finger choil, it needs to be big enough to use safely!! Sharp blades all.
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
For sure David, thanks for the comment.
@shannonpaschal6435 Жыл бұрын
People that don't like the frn handles don't understand them and probably is the most durable version as said by Andrew Demko himself.
@marasukonisaki Жыл бұрын
Great designed knife, but still: Overpriced! Considering the materials used, the selling price is clearly way too high. Nevertheless: Thank you for the great content, as always!
@geemeffАй бұрын
Did you send cold steel the video of how you cratered the atlas or just the photos after the fact? Just curious is all bud 😊
@gideonstacticalАй бұрын
Sent the atlas for repair
@manifestgtr9 ай бұрын
I’m not sure why the shark lock got such a reputation for overwhelming strength. When you look at the mechanism, it looks to be roughly as strong as a back lock, etc. I’d actually wager a guess that Spyderco’s CBBL is a beefier mechanism. All in all, most of the lock arguments come down to preference anyway. They ALL have pivots and should be treated accordingly.
@deadmanrunning667011 ай бұрын
An ordinary knife that I bought solely for the gimmick! I'm not disappointed, mind you.
@mericanfreedom8347 Жыл бұрын
The CS Recon 1 is such an incredibly hard value to beat.
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
For sure, but not as snappy.
@mericanfreedom8347 Жыл бұрын
@@gideonstactical definitely not fidget friendly! Haha
@flapxjackson Жыл бұрын
Good video, thank you. Now that you have both a shark lock and an atlas lock, are they the same, or is one better than the other and if so, why.
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
We’re talking about purely the locking mechanism I prefer the shark lock. But I would argue that the S35vn steel and ergonomically on the Engage are better for not much more.
@ryank1862 Жыл бұрын
What’s with some dealers selling more lock springs or including them with purchase? Why would a new knife require more springs?
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
Not sure, I think it’s just convenience factor which I view as a positive
@timothyorendorff76425 ай бұрын
I don’t know, all the makers are chasing competitive advantage which is good, but miss the mark along the way too.
@Dynotop1a Жыл бұрын
If you want some value, try to grab the new Manix 2 that BladeHQ is doing. Same as the Manix in this video, but CPM-M4 for less than $120. It is pinned, which means it’s not going to be as efficient to maintain as the newer screw construction lightweight versions Spyderco has been slowly rolling out. I also got a CPM15V G10 Manix 2 for less than $170, but that was a Sprint Run. That said, I do like the Demko. It’s a good knife. I’m waiting for more designs from Demko with the Shark Lock, though, because the current ones are too similar to my Manix.
@Dynotop1a Жыл бұрын
Really thoughtful review, btw. For example, I’ve always liked how you mention showing knives to other people. It’s usually just a brief segment, but I think that’s fine and still manages to give some genuine depth to things.
@John-gu7jq Жыл бұрын
Looks like a cool knife however I agree with your assessment of the size issues. Probably not worth the money for me.
@goawaybaizuo11 ай бұрын
I got a transparent knives reblade of a 20.5 with 65hrc magnacut and its the best knife I've owned.
@tgonzalez198310 ай бұрын
Wish Demko would do a production version of the AD20s. That would be absolutely perfect edc for me. I like this one too but the handle is too thin & the blade too short
@benschwerzler8154 Жыл бұрын
Hello Aaron, another great review, thank you for putting this knife in perspective. I will stay with my CS Ak-47, and Buck 110. The new Demko Knife is an overpriced fidget spinner. Thanks for a great review.
@Hadeeez Жыл бұрын
Yeah, but it's a really addictive fidget spinner! All jokes aside, I love my 3v clip point version. It's a really tough lock(really similar to the triad), but it's also easy to manipulate quickly and ambidextrous. Putting ti or micarta scales really improves the feel of it, perfect size for my hands too. My only gripe is that it's a little thick behind the edge. If it was a better slicer and maybe got rid of the thumbstuds it would be my perfect EDC
@bobmahnamahknob4 күн бұрын
Just a note: they now have models of the AD20s with full flat grinds. They also offer models with no thumbstuds and an enlarged slot
@eyeofthetiger4184 Жыл бұрын
G'day Aaron, you might want to send back the AD20.5 and the Manix 2 too, ............. they've both got holes in their blades. Gotta say I do like the leaf shape on the Manix, cant stand the horrid bird beak jobs. The shark lock IS interesting, does have the fidget factor and it's good to see plenty of options in the range, though personally I wouldn't pay a premo price for it, especially since their tri-ad lock, (probably any backlock), is more robust. Not that I'd baton a folder, (except in emergency), but like a chain ...... it's only as strong as it's weakest link. Cheers Duke.
@bobjohnson1633 Жыл бұрын
At these prices, they should come with nothing but the baddest ass steels on the market. No justification for japanese 440c equivalent.
@FoxSolomon1 Жыл бұрын
The true ad20 is better. Wasn’t a fan of the 20.5
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
What to get one ☝️
@The4cp Жыл бұрын
Value has been dropping just due to inflation. Just not my kind of knife though.
@unfi6798 Жыл бұрын
the bset survival knife is the knife you got on you. Gt just proved that.!
@molin2 Жыл бұрын
Overpriced for what you get
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
Exactly
@Mrkvicak123 Жыл бұрын
Hello, i want spyderco manix 2 lgtwt but its pinned, can you tell me how can i lube it and clean it?
@Dynotop1a Жыл бұрын
If you’re up for it, I would contact your favorite dealers and ask if they have any of the new ones that have been updated with screw construction. Unless you are set on a version that is not updated, like the BladeHQ CPM-M4 steel Manix 2 Lightweight. I would be interested to hear how to do it the “GideonsTactical Way”.
@Hungrybird474 Жыл бұрын
Oh man . I got one of these around the holidays and went all out with OG scales and backspacer but I thought 💩💩💩💩💩 for the price . Great lock tho , solid . It’s not that good mine has some really noticeable side to side wiggle and that’s a fail over here . Yeah , it’s fun to play with but wiggle side to side and see the play . I guarantee I can break it easy
@Arto257 Жыл бұрын
For that much money I'd just get a benchmade griptilian. Better steel, similar fidget potential, and made in America.
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
For sure.
@franciscoscaramanga589 Жыл бұрын
Is the Shark lock stronger than the Tri-Ad lock?
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
I don’t have enough testing to say yes or no all I know is that the triad I have Botond many times with many models and it’s worked out great
@franciscoscaramanga589 Жыл бұрын
Does the Shark lock develop any blade play at all after batonning?
@steelmademance8167 Жыл бұрын
When are we going to get the zt 006 review and get a beat on it
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
Not sure but I should
@leeweisberg4045 Жыл бұрын
Great video keep them coming!
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
Thanks! Will do!
@camhester4251 Жыл бұрын
the Demco is my next purchase
@stefanwilliams1687 Жыл бұрын
Great review on an insanely popular knife
@L.T.112 Жыл бұрын
You are stepping up your game!
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
Thank you Leon, working hard on it!
@rustyknifelover4463 Жыл бұрын
Love the AD20, AD20.5 great work knives.
@Timmayytoo Жыл бұрын
No, not at all. The 20.5 is surprisingly small and they are all overpriced. I bought one of the original models and while the lock is a clever design, the knife never finds its way into my pocket.
@gideonstactical Жыл бұрын
Sad to hear that but I figure you are not alone.
@chrisjosekuehl Жыл бұрын
I carry my 3v carbon fiber model most days, I got a good deal on it, they are a little high priced for the aus10 or d2 models.
@conductorcammon Жыл бұрын
I haven't pulled the trigger on one cuz of the steel/price. Looks like a neat lock though.
@loganramsay378 Жыл бұрын
So what's wrong with it tho
@antchung2370 Жыл бұрын
Shark Lock..! Supposed to be sharp.. Grippy..
@albsureinc23 Жыл бұрын
Too much $$$ for AUS 10 steel....i would feel comfortable at the most $80 but no more that that
@peterem Жыл бұрын
as expected Demko is a genius Cold Steel is a previous.
@bjhiss27 Жыл бұрын
I'd feel a little scummy destroying a knife for a youtube video and having cold steel send you out a new one.
@mattrc77 Жыл бұрын
now baton with the Manix
@andrashavas Жыл бұрын
If you can't sell your knife due to an overcrowded market, then invent another lock and market it as the best... Nothing revolutionary really. Why not buy a small fixed blade like Extrema Ratio Satre and use it and abuse it?