I developed a taste more for Speyside than Islay sourced scotch. I can enjoy some smokiness. Lagavulin 16 is about my limit. Last time I had a Talisker, it was very smoky. I know there are some variants and of course years… don’t remember which. I might try a 10 yr again. I really enjoy Macallan 12 double-cask. I used to buy a 750ml bottle for around $40. Then took a long break, maybe a good 8 years, stunned to find it leaped up to $70 on the low side. Plus, it’s more commercial now. Macallan 12 Years Sherry Cask used to be cheaper, but I saw that it has been discontinued for distribution in Europe so prices have skyrocketed. Crazy.
Single malt scotch cannot expand to meet a growing population interest. Just too slow. So, I try not to talk about it!
I have seen an arc-lock used with a baton to split wood. SOG Vulcan Tanto.
So, a folder can be strong enough. I have one of these and it’s beautifully made for the price.
My favorite small folder is, hands down, a Spyderco Vrango. Machining is first rate. Liner lock totally centers on the blade—no worries. Now that I’ve been spoiled, I’m not driven to buy sub $20 folders any longer. Although machining is very good and you can find nice blade metal, main issue is the weight. 2” folder weighing 5oz? Silly.
I think I may get around to finally buying a fixed though. I think a good idea to have at least one. I would like to spend under $50 USD for a really decent quality one. Is that possible?