Pros: Overall Quality, Lock Type, Ease of Opening, Blade Material, Lock Ease of Use, Blade Sharpness, Weight, Handle Material, Sheath, Handle Feel, Pocket Clip
Cons: Sheath, None
Go-to Emerson
Prior to purchasing this spectacular knife, I had already owned Emerson's Super Cmdr, Super Karambit, PUK, CQC-7B, CQC-15 (All but the Super Cmdr puchased from knifecenter, I think). I also used to own a CQC-7A which I purposely beat to near destruction (impossible to destroy) and Benchmades earlier version of the CQC-7B. I have and still do own a lot of higher-end production knives. I use most of my knives and have determined through use that Emersons are my favorite knives-by far. I love the CQC-8! When I first held this knife in my hand, I was blown away- order it and you'll see what I mean! This knife transitions from one grip to another very smoothly. The blade and handle design are perfect for utility or fighting. During my testing of the 7A, I actually sharpened it on a brick. The Emerson chisel edge is with purpose and provides an easily maintained razor-sharp edge. I prefer 154cm to the praised S30V, as well. Why? Because I've had tips on knives constructed of S30V explode upon the slightest contact with hard material. 154cm is happy medium of a steel capable of much more than mere slicing. Emerson knows what he's doing and that's why many very competent personnel swear by his knives. The black coating on Emersons is tough and it takes a lot of abuse to wear it off. The wave makes autos obsolete. The liner locks on these knives are the strongest of the type that I've seen and I would trust my fingers to a broken in Emerson. Initially. open and close your Emerson frequently and wave it hard to break the lock in. People have knocked Emerson's "fit and finish" for instances of machining marks and rough edges; however, I'll take a knife with a few minor blemishes over a pretty knife with no balls any day! Only my 15 had the aforementioned blemishes and it's no big deal because the knife proved itself four times over since its purchase. The newer Emerson's (2011-12) have a more coarse G-10 and a slightly different pivot screw (2012) than the older. Both modifications are improvements in my honest opinion. I cannot say enough good about Emersons or this knife. This is my new favorite Emerson and I'll carry it for a long time.
