← ComparisonsLength and spine thickness drawn to true scale from published specs. Profile is the shape family's outline, not a scan of this model.
Head to head
The James Brand Chapter 2 vs Kershaw Cryo
The James Brand Chapter 2 runs a 2.64″ drop point blade in CPM MagnaCut; Kershaw Cryo runs 2.75″ of drop point in 8Cr13MoV. The The James Brand Chapter 2 is the lighter of the two by 1.20 oz.
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- The James Brand Chapter 2 · Drop Point2.64″ blade · 3 oz · ~0.64″ tall (derived)
- Kershaw Cryo · Drop Point2.75″ blade · 0.118″ spine · 4.2 oz · ~0.67″ tall (derived)
Spine thickness, same scale
0.118″
| Spec | The James BrandThe James Brand Chapter 2 | KershawKershaw Cryo |
|---|---|---|
| Blade length | 2.64″ | 2.75″ |
| Spine thickness | — | 0.118″ |
| Overall length | 6.46″ | 6.5″ |
| Closed length | 3.82″ | 3.75″ |
| Weight | 3 oz | 4.2 oz |
| Blade shape | Drop Point | Drop Point |
| Steel | CPM MagnaCut | 8Cr13MoV |
| Grind | Flat | Hollow |
| Lock | Liner | Frame Lock |
| Handle material | Titanium | Stainless |
| Country of origin | USA | China |
| Price band | Premium | Budget |
Tinted rows are where these two differ.
The steel difference
CPM MagnaCut
The current answer to “why must I choose?” — near-tool-steel toughness with better corrosion resistance than S30V. The default recommendation for a hunting fixed blade that lives in a wet sheath.
8Cr13MoV
The Chinese value workhorse, roughly comparable to AUS-8. Fine on a $30 knife, unremarkable anywhere else.