As someone who loves hard use, blacked out tactical knives, I can appreciate what ZT is doing and their quality is top notch, but I really wish that put out more "built like a tank" products that they became famous for to go along with the eye candy...I'd take G10, S30V/S35VN, torx screws & pivots for $150-200 with ZT quality any day.
Bryce Parker I’m sure it will be good at handling use, but it has moved more toward “pocket jewelry”. That’s where the market is right now and I don’t fault them. I just would love to see a new design that isn’t a ball bearing flipper.
Kinda disappointed actually.. was really looking for something to call back to some of those older hard use knives that were discontinued. I like the first two and still will continue purchasing ZT but wanted to see something that wasn’t a flipper. Nice knives though ⚔️👍🏼
Do you actually buy knives? It's a collaborative effort so they used the custom knife makers design, this is where all knife companies are headed and ZT is definitely at the top when it comes to making affordable versions of custom knives.
This guy gets it! That's why out of all the ZT's I have the 0450 and why I'm jumping all over the 0609. I carry every day and I want something small and lightweight and attractive that can also do the job when I need it too. You simply don't need a ridiculous overbuilt heavy monster knife to carry every day and that weighs you down. I'm all in for "overbuilt" but I also want it small and a pleasure to carry every day. ZT small knives perfectly ride the line between underbuilt and overbuilt where I can trust it to do the job I need it to every day, but it's simple and lovely to carry and use. Love the direction the company is going, you go ZT! I guarantee this better direction will reflect better in your sales.
Nothing I'm excited about except the 20cv. ZT is now playing catch up with companies like Reate, We, Rike, and now even Kizer. I do wish there was something here I had to have.
It has just been my experience in handling those knives at bladehq that they aren't very smooth and more anodized eye candy. They're not garbage knives at all, but only David Deng's Reate knives could compare with ZT on action and they still play second fiddle. To each their own.
Player Review I’ve owned bunches of ZT and currently own 4 Reates. There’s no comparison in smoothness or action. Ceramic bearings and detents will never rust, need less oil, and are definitely smoother. ZT cuts corners now with aluminum hardware etc while other companies go all out. If you like the designs then go for it they’re solid. I just wish they still went all out that’s all I’m still patiently waiting.
I think it would be cool to see zt make a special locking mechanism for their knives. Every other company has one Spyderco: compression lock ( just to name one) Benchmade: axis Zt does have a flipping action like no other however I just think it’d be cool imo.
For what these sell for, tool should be included. Why couldn't they make the pivot screw holes to line up, so an AR front sight tool could be used? There you go ZT, million $ idea - make it happen.
What happens if u lose the tool. Its cool to try to be different but what happens if u loose it or somthing. Keep it simple in my opinion. If it isnt broke dont break it. Knives are nice other wise.
ww2 colorizer Thanx for letting me kno. Me personally id prefer to stick with what is common in knives such as the T bits and hex heads but to each is own.
Already preordered the 0393, I like the aesthetics and its specs are excellent. Hinderer/ZT collabs are gtg. I'm curious what your flavor is, what's the most exciting knife you've seen this year?
The clip is a fail on the 0609 but I'll get one anyway. Great designs and quality for the price and made in the USA. Not much to complain about though. But people will, as always.
I've said it before and I'll keep saying it. I'm a knife addict and I'm fine with paying 200$+ for badass high quality American made folders. But if you make proprietary hardware that requires a special tool, throw it in the box. Is that to much to ask for when you spend 200$ on a little knife? No
Spent more time and money creating dumbass tools and hardware for their knives rather than new useful designs. I guess their was quite the demand for a see through pivot.
M390 is technically better than 20CV, as far as carbide distribution goes, but all good. It costs more and 20CV is US steel, so that works for me, even if it is 2nd gen cpm.
The stock on kai is on an up trend. Zero tolerance is doing some incredible stuff and the Kershaw link 1776 is incredible for 80 bucks. Does anyone know when zt will send the new merch to bladehq
I liked ZT when it first came out. Hard use knives built like a tank. Don't get me wrong I like "gentleman's knives," but what happened to the bad ass hard use knives they used to make. I think they have forgotten the market that made them successful in the first place.
Well I gotta hand it to zt they are finally starting to offer some premium features for the premium price. I am a bit underwhelmed by the nerfed release this year. I sorta thought that with them skipping new releases at blade that they would really come out swinging.
The quality looks good (I assume the glaring edge chips in the blade of the bronze titanium 0609 were just some weird visual artifact), but ZT is drifting away from my personal blade preferences. I might see if I can pick up an older ZT design this year.
I see a bunch of people saying "The market doesnt want hard use knives" Well that is funny because the old school ZT knives are worth more now then when they were in production... ZT fans sure seem to love them. I was not aware ZT was supposed to cater to Microtech fans that want dainty toys they will never use... Trust me most of us want the old ZT back... And for the record the 909 didnt sell well because it was a bland looking knife not because it was big...I would like to see ZT make more fixed blades too... These new releases are pretty but they are not practical for people who want to buy knives for daily use... Make some real shit ZT...
Probably more like $50+ I bet you if they offered this knife with a standard Torx/Hex/flathead/phillips. People would buy that version. This is absolutely all about gouging on the special tool sales. A Torx works just fine and I will bet this new system does not offer any tangible benefits other than looking different.
All of this is just opinion, but I think KAI missed the boat this year. After watching your Shot Show Kershaw vid and this one, it seems that they put all new offerings on a diet.. slimmed down, sleek, etc. If that is what I want, I'll look at WE Knives. I may be wrong, but I think a fair number of us like to have a beefy, substantive knife. Here's hoping for 2019!
These are kind of cool, but the problem is I know they'll be super costly, like $200+. I'm not sure if at this price range it's such an easy buy compared to their competitors
Fire your design team. Get back to the basics. Get rid of the "custom pivots" to start out with, ditch the ball bearings and not every knife has to be a flipper.
The Lock up on this is Terrible. Half a mm ...or 1mm max ! A danger. That blade is awesome but a danger. Its a design flaw with this one Im being honest. Returning mine. The seller is unhappy but its not my fault. 0609 blk
Another proprietary tool.... eff that. Careful ZT, that’s enough to lose quite a few customers.... better remind your marketing team to check themselves.
Glad ZT is moving away from the stupidly overbuilt knives in favor of more pocket friendly stuff, but the 0462 is a joke. Who the hell was asking for that? Why would you waste a slot on that?
There’s NOTHING by either Kershaw or ZT that’s even a little interesting. Very disappointing. At least the Last Boy Scout, Shane, (who your helping to sponsor), has shown some really interesting firearms related kit. Otherwise Shot would be a bust so far.
For all those asking prices: (in order of video)
0609 - $220 (no tool included)
0462 - $240
0393 - $240
All available for pre-order at BHQ!
As someone who loves hard use, blacked out tactical knives, I can appreciate what ZT is doing and their quality is top notch, but I really wish that put out more "built like a tank" products that they became famous for to go along with the eye candy...I'd take G10, S30V/S35VN, torx screws & pivots for $150-200 with ZT quality any day.
I agree.
I’m a little confused as to why zt is moving away from the hard use knives...they were what originally interested me in the brand.
RW_gear They’ve gone from hard use knives to pocket jewelry :(
RW_gear I’m right there with you..
That hinderer knife could take a beating for sure with that new steel especially.
Bryce Parker I’m sure it will be good at handling use, but it has moved more toward “pocket jewelry”. That’s where the market is right now and I don’t fault them. I just would love to see a new design that isn’t a ball bearing flipper.
RW_gear because nobody needs a pocket knife to cut down trees and stuff. They don't sell well at all.
Kinda disappointed actually.. was really looking for something to call back to some of those older hard use knives that were discontinued. I like the first two and still will continue purchasing ZT but wanted to see something that wasn’t a flipper. Nice knives though ⚔️👍🏼
If I gotta buy a custom tool to service the knife, it’s a deal breaker. Ain’t happening.
So ZT went from being able to use a common socket for the pivot(0300,0200), to NEEDING a magnetic-6hole decoder ring...
I'll pass.
My guess is they're making efforts to limit Chinese cloning. Sad but true.
On just one specific model so it could have an interesting pivot (though I agree it should be included with the knife, not sold separately).
Do you actually buy knives? It's a collaborative effort so they used the custom knife makers design, this is where all knife companies are headed and ZT is definitely at the top when it comes to making affordable versions of custom knives.
Skipping out on ZT this year. What happened to their built hard roots? Proprietary pivots and art knives? No
GutiTheJ I remember when they built knives that were meant to be beaten.
Yes
This is what I was going to say before I read your reply. They make what sells.
This guy gets it! That's why out of all the ZT's I have the 0450 and why I'm jumping all over the 0609. I carry every day and I want something small and lightweight and attractive that can also do the job when I need it too. You simply don't need a ridiculous overbuilt heavy monster knife to carry every day and that weighs you down. I'm all in for "overbuilt" but I also want it small and a pleasure to carry every day. ZT small knives perfectly ride the line between underbuilt and overbuilt where I can trust it to do the job I need it to every day, but it's simple and lovely to carry and use. Love the direction the company is going, you go ZT! I guarantee this better direction will reflect better in your sales.
But they still offer hard use knives too.
1:30 *Screeching in Shabazz*
Rodrigo Teresa I was thinking the exact same thing
I got my first zt (0562cf) not to long ago and man are they nice. I think they might be my new favorite company. Can’t believe it took me this long.
Nice to see the thinner titanium scales on 0393.Thinner, lighter handle is a winner.There will be an 0609 in my pocket for sure.Thanks for posting.
Nothing I'm excited about except the 20cv. ZT is now playing catch up with companies like Reate, We, Rike, and now even Kizer. I do wish there was something here I had to have.
If you're into all those Chinese makers, then ZT probably isn't your demographic anyways.
Player Review I’m into quality period and have plenty of American made knives.
It has just been my experience in handling those knives at bladehq that they aren't very smooth and more anodized eye candy. They're not garbage knives at all, but only David Deng's Reate knives could compare with ZT on action and they still play second fiddle. To each their own.
Player Review I’ve owned bunches of ZT and currently own 4 Reates. There’s no comparison in smoothness or action. Ceramic bearings and detents will never rust, need less oil, and are definitely smoother. ZT cuts corners now with aluminum hardware etc while other companies go all out. If you like the designs then go for it they’re solid. I just wish they still went all out that’s all I’m still patiently waiting.
Player Review Sadly looking through the comments it looks like “most” of the community is let down as well.
My favorite blade steel!! Couldn't be happier!! cpm-20cv😍😍
Fingers crossed for another Emerson x ZT run in the near future...
Zach Cutshaw exactly. My perfect knife, zt0630 with 2 solid titanium slabs and an axis lock
Not crazy about the idea of paying $200ish for a knife then having to buy a special tool to adjust the pivot.
Never owned a ZT knife and now I have a 0560 on the way. Looking forward to it.
0393. Another Hinderer design with better flipping action than Hinderer could ever produce.
Yeah, of course because it's on bearings.
Oh man, that 0393 is to die for!
In a couple of years, ZT went from super tough tactical to purple gypsy knives
Damn the camera angle sucks
Angle.
I think it would be cool to see zt make a special locking mechanism for their knives. Every other company has one
Spyderco: compression lock ( just to name one)
Benchmade: axis
Zt does have a flipping action like no other however I just think it’d be cool imo.
Nothing I’m interested in, was wishing for more hard use knives.
For what these sell for, tool should be included. Why couldn't they make the pivot screw holes to line up, so an AR front sight tool could be used? There you go ZT, million $ idea - make it happen.
NewCastleNinja i totaly agree
Really? I mean the 0609 is kind of cool but could nobody come up with a new design? All the 2018 designs are just redesigns. Very disappointing
Can you buy the Kershaw tool to save money?
Nice. 20CV is my favorite steel.
When should these be ready for delivery?
Q1 2018
What happens if u lose the tool. Its cool to try to be different but what happens if u loose it or somthing. Keep it simple in my opinion. If it isnt broke dont break it. Knives are nice other wise.
Benito Victory you’d have to buy another one for $25. The tools don’t even come with the knife
ww2 colorizer Thanx for letting me kno. Me personally id prefer to stick with what is common in knives such as the T bits and hex heads but to each is own.
Benito Victory same here man. I think this is gonna put a lot of people off tbh
No one Knows round nose pliers can do the job but yeah not a good idea, I think it will damage it
I've been on the fence on getting a ZT, own a couple Spydercos and a Viper Fortis... I really want a flipper that snaps.
Why no fixed blade? I LOVE my 0180, and was hoping for something to replace it. Too bad.
The angle he was holding the knives was killin me!
0609...must resist....keep my credit card away. Who am I kidding
Not buying a zt in 2018.
Already preordered the 0393, I like the aesthetics and its specs are excellent. Hinderer/ZT collabs are gtg. I'm curious what your flavor is, what's the most exciting knife you've seen this year?
The RJ Martin almost nailed it(even though it looks like a kershaw volt ss) but that proprietary pivot killed it.
There's 0470 with 20cv blade coming soon... :o
Can't wait :)
ZT make a production Graham Razel!
I do like The 0393
I was all in on the 0609 until that pivot. Oh well, let’s check out the other manufacturers.
The clip is a fail on the 0609 but I'll get one anyway. Great designs and quality for the price and made in the USA. Not much to complain about though. But people will, as always.
Proprietary pivots like Microtech? Hmmmmm.
I've said it before and I'll keep saying it. I'm a knife addict and I'm fine with paying 200$+ for badass high quality American made folders. But if you make proprietary hardware that requires a special tool, throw it in the box. Is that to much to ask for when you spend 200$ on a little knife? No
3 new models...that it? Really...
Spent more time and money creating dumbass tools and hardware for their knives rather than new useful designs. I guess their was quite the demand for a see through pivot.
Does ZT make any knives without a frame lock?
Happy to see 20CV for these. Interested in knowing more on edge & handle width measurements on these.
M390 is technically better than 20CV, as far as carbide distribution goes, but all good. It costs more and 20CV is US steel, so that works for me, even if it is 2nd gen cpm.
Was not a fan of the size of the 0460 cause Ive got XL hands.....0462 here I come!
When does the 0462 drop?!
I highly doubt this is all we're getting for 2018, I would keep a look out for mid year releases
Correct. There will be more.
The stock on kai is on an up trend. Zero tolerance is doing some incredible stuff and the Kershaw link 1776 is incredible for 80 bucks. Does anyone know when zt will send the new merch to bladehq
ZT answered on another post "Q1 2018".
Any scheduled release dates?
0393 without the inlays please. Or bring back the 0392
I liked ZT when it first came out. Hard use knives built like a tank. Don't get me wrong I like "gentleman's knives," but what happened to the bad ass hard use knives they used to make. I think they have forgotten the market that made them successful in the first place.
Bring back the zt boot knife.
Well I gotta hand it to zt they are finally starting to offer some premium features for the premium price. I am a bit underwhelmed by the nerfed release this year. I sorta thought that with them skipping new releases at blade that they would really come out swinging.
The quality looks good (I assume the glaring edge chips in the blade of the bronze titanium 0609 were just some weird visual artifact), but ZT is drifting away from my personal blade preferences. I might see if I can pick up an older ZT design this year.
Hmmm... Must buy a tool to adjust my tool... No Thank you
I see a bunch of people saying "The market doesnt want hard use knives" Well that is funny because the old school ZT knives are worth more now then when they were in production... ZT fans sure seem to love them. I was not aware ZT was supposed to cater to Microtech fans that want dainty toys they will never use... Trust me most of us want the old ZT back... And for the record the 909 didnt sell well because it was a bland looking knife not because it was big...I would like to see ZT make more fixed blades too... These new releases are pretty but they are not practical for people who want to buy knives for daily use... Make some real shit ZT...
I guess, after a while, there are no more new shapes and designs...so we just keep revamping old designs. I bet that magnet tool is expensive too!
When will the 0609 be available on bladehq??
ZT answered a post stating "Q1 2018"
A proprietary pivot is annoying enough. Never mind buying the tools separately.
zt 0393 all day everyday
Love the new ZT designs. Not a fan of pivot screws that need special tools. And I doubt the knife comes with the tool.
Love the vids
ZT! Please Bring back 0777!
hello awesome video!
Now we knifeguys can add pivot adjusting tampons to our edc; finally.
"ZT knives, for those with more cents than sense"....at some point ya just have to shake your head and ask WTF?
Do u get the tool with the knife
The Tool is sold separately
Blade HQ tha
Thanks
That is a big downside. Proprietary mechanisms requiring you to buy special tools is a dick move.
thegeneral123 I agree. Probably costs 30 dollars for that stupid tool
Probably more like $50+ I bet you if they offered this knife with a standard Torx/Hex/flathead/phillips. People would buy that version. This is absolutely all about gouging on the special tool sales. A Torx works just fine and I will bet this new system does not offer any tangible benefits other than looking different.
Yeah, how much is the 0609??
$220 street price on bladehq
I like the new one.
How much is the tool for the 0609?
Steve Welborn 50bux
GhostNeck Thank you sir
It's actually $24.99 MSRP.
ZT 0460 ftw
man im feeling the hurt this year first leatherman disappoints and now zt
Killer designs and ingenuity but the pivot on the ZT 0609 seems a bit gimmicky.
First one is kinda cool. That hinderer one is fugly. To each their own tho
How much is the 0609??
$220 street on bladehq
Player Review
Yeah, I pre-ordered it already. They still shoulda said the price in the video tho...
Thank I'll stick to Kershaw's I'm poor
I don't understand the STP pivot, it isn't an advantage or any kind of amazing design. Strider has had a see through pivot for over 10 years... lol
I’ve always been a ZT guy, I own a few Hinderers and a ZT Les George.
So I feel that it’s appropriate to ask WTF happened ???
All of this is just opinion, but I think KAI missed the boat this year. After watching your Shot Show Kershaw vid and this one, it seems that they put all new offerings on a diet.. slimmed down, sleek, etc. If that is what I want, I'll look at WE Knives. I may be wrong, but I think a fair number of us like to have a beefy, substantive knife. Here's hoping for 2019!
Zero tolerance should team up with andrew demko to make yhe ultimate beater knife.
U notice the tool doesn't come with. It's an extra 50plus bucks.lol
msrp is $25, not sure street price, but yeah... should have built it into the price and included it.
Im excited about the new steel. That pivot tool should be included with the knife. Don't be douche bags.
These are kind of cool, but the problem is I know they'll be super costly, like $200+. I'm not sure if at this price range it's such an easy buy compared to their competitors
Uninspiring showing for Zt this year.
Love the 609!! but the prices are crazy......
I cringed as soon as he pulled out that proprietary tool
The $25 tool is lame. Given the price level, at least have one ship with the knives
Fire your design team. Get back to the basics. Get rid of the "custom pivots" to start out with, ditch the ball bearings and not every knife has to be a flipper.
pretty uninteresting knives so far this year, i too prefer the older heavy duty knives.
The Lock up on this is Terrible. Half a mm ...or 1mm max ! A danger. That blade is awesome but a danger. Its a design flaw with this one Im being honest. Returning mine. The seller is unhappy but its not my fault. 0609 blk
Another proprietary tool.... eff that.
Careful ZT, that’s enough to lose quite a few customers.... better remind your marketing team to check themselves.
Looks the same as the Kershaw guy.
It's Jim's evil clone. (totally not the same person)
msrp $300 for a folding knife..mchhh, man, please!!
Glad ZT is moving away from the stupidly overbuilt knives in favor of more pocket friendly stuff, but the 0462 is a joke. Who the hell was asking for that? Why would you waste a slot on that?
There’s NOTHING by either Kershaw or ZT that’s even a little interesting. Very disappointing. At least the Last Boy Scout, Shane, (who your helping to sponsor), has shown some really interesting firearms related kit. Otherwise Shot would be a bust so far.
Zt use to be all about heavy duty and over built knives -_-
You need to get the camera angle and the presenter's knife position lined up. Horrible video's with this ZT guy. Can't see the knives
I don't like the tool!
Honestly, Spyderco this year looks more interesting to me than ZT.
Два переиздания старых моделей и ломик от Хиндерера... как-то уныло год у ZT начался.