Zero Tolerance 302 Speed Assisted Folder
I picked up the ZT 302 folder not long ago from a local store. The first time i saw these folders I was very impressed by the design, looking very much like Ken Onion and Strider put it together – which is exactly what it is. I picked the Tan over the Olive Drab because I think it looks much better, but that’s subjective. I don’t think anyone can argue that this isn’t one of the nicest production tactical folders out there, however.
This knife absolutely floors me for value. Its made extremely well, and has very nicely machined details such as the textured scales and framelock. A hinderer lockbar stabilizer and ultra-thick handles and a full black G-10 backspacer. There is also a scale on the G-10 handle side that houses the speed safe mechanism, I believe.
If I were to get just one knife to carry, I think this one would be it. Its a bigger folder, but with the ergonomic lines of the handle and the textured grip its not only comfortable in the hand, but has exceptional purchase and retention. The wide blade profile allows the blade to be useful for very large cutting chores and the wide handle profile means better blade control
High-quality S30V steel, with the Strider tiger striping and Ken Onion designed recurve blade and speed assisted opening system. The blade also has a trigger to fire it open. This knife has it all! The blade is not quite as thick as some of Strider’s other offerings such as the AR/GB knives, but is almost as thick as the SnG… just a HAIR thinner.
When I first received my ZT0302 there was a tiny bit of blade play in the closed position only due to the pivot not being tight enough. I tightened it up and now there is no blade play in any positions and the knife still fires crisply. Very nice. Highly recommended!
Blade Length: 4 1/4″
Overall Lenght: 9″
Blade Material: S30V
Handle Material: Coyote Tan G-10
Weight: 8.6 oz
Movie
November 22nd, 2007 at 7:42 pm
LIKE I TOLD YOU THIS IS MY FAVORITE REVIEW AND I LOVE THIS KNIFES STEEL. YOUR REVIEWS ARE SO GOOD I THINK YOU SHOULD HAVE YOUR OWN MAGAZINE ABOUT KNIVES. I LOVE MY ZT AND IT LOOKS LIKE YOU DO TOO. KEEP UP THE REVIEWS.
November 23rd, 2007 at 1:23 am
Thanks man, but I don’t think my reviews compare to some of the more extensive ones out there. I usually concern myself with light use and fit and finish as well as ergonomics and aesthetics. I rarely use my knives hard but I appeal to the collector mostly.
January 29th, 2008 at 4:02 pm
I can’t wait to get a zt 302.It’s a real big folder, very useful and well made by Kershaw.
January 30th, 2008 at 10:32 pm
please send prices and order info on your zero tolerance 0302 knife.
Thanks
February 1st, 2008 at 10:29 am
Sorry, I don’t sell these knives but there are plenty of retailers out there that sell online..
March 10th, 2008 at 11:05 am
Are you sure the blade is that long? The ZT website says something below 4″. Whats the story?
March 10th, 2008 at 8:10 pm
Hmm.. not sure what the story is. It was around 4.25 when I measured it, but I have all my blades packed up in storage because I am moving, so I can’t measure right now and check. But ur right, Kershaw’s site says 3.75″… perhaps it is the angle that I am measuring it at or I am measuring it to a different part. The ricasso is almost nil on this knife so I can’t say for sure.
March 11th, 2008 at 2:09 pm
Does it come with a sheath? I saw another youtube video of the ZT 0400 and the person was showing off the inside of the knife. It was filled with greese near the torsion bar I believe. What is all that grease for if there are so few moving parts inside, and is the 0300 also packed with grease like that?
I bought it from warriors&wonders too btw, but it still hasnt arrived 🙁
March 13th, 2008 at 8:44 am
No sheath – and I haven’t seen any grease – but then again, I haven’t taken apart my knife. I think more people need to check these magnificent blades out and give credit where credit is due. Stop sending troops out with junk knives! This thing is awesome! I’m not a big fan of Strider or Onion, but together they made one beautiful (HUGE!) baby! If you don’t the $200 to pick one of these up on Ebay, then you shouldn’t be spending any money on knives!
March 13th, 2008 at 10:02 am
I think all the torsion bar mechanisms have grease inside them… I took one apart years ago but I can’t remember anymore. But by how the mechanism works, I don’t find it strange that there is grease in it.
November 24th, 2008 at 11:43 am
Well, I’ve been testing the ZT 302 for a while now and though I think it provides value for the money (around 340 USD in Europe where I live), I’ve got some remarks. The blade play is a persistent problem. The pivot has to be tightend up after every heavy use and the blade itself is a bit too big for cutting wood etc. An OK knife, but absolutely not a Strider. Strider plays in a different league.
January 28th, 2009 at 2:58 pm
in response to the blade length i talked to kershaw and they said that it was just a typo it actually is 4.25