When it comes to fit and finish, that rounded spine on the ace grand is a game changer for the ergos. The cost of aftermarket pieces, even after paying 20$-25$ more makes the ace grand a winner for me.
I really enjoyed this video, and can definitely see the value in the comparison between the 2 knives. But for me, I just wish the Shaman was stock in the comparison.
Hi, question about the m4 Shaman. Sounds like you weren't a fan of the m4- any particular reasons? I'm on the fence about the m4 and would appreciate any insight. Thanks. Chris.
This is the first video of yours I've seen, I have subscribed. I like your honest feedback and thorough detail. Also I'm waiting on my first Ace Grand to come in so the videos even that much nicer to see. Though I only found the Ace Grand because I was looking for a shaman lol.
The biblio I got had a terrible action, the detent was too soft to reliably use the flipper tab. I’ve heard the newest generation has been improved though, they’re on gen 3 now from what I’ve heard 🤷🏼♂️
Epic Battle of Outdoors EDC!!! I’m a new fan of GM, and The Ace Grand nailed it as an excellent Outdoorsy EDC folder, not necessary a Heavy Duty Outdoors EDC, as The Shaman!! Hear the echo?! Your “Epic Battle to Death” was 100% spot on every category. The finer points of the Grand’s wins & loses are my exact opinions. I did contemplate, “what if” the Grand had collaboration with Spyderco and added a Compression Lock & if the blade had a bit more razor sharp geometry?? It could be better, someday, but for now it has enough quality characteristics to stand as a production “CLASSIC” from renowned designers. Thanks BG for your entertaining & precise comparison!
I appreciated this review. I think I’ll pass on the ACE, but man would I love a micarta knife with a rounded spine. Just perhaps a bit more slicey and with a different blade design.
Well here I am a year later. And I own a Grand. It’s a great knife. So is the Shaman. I’m about to get a Shaman, actually. Specifically to be a work knife. My tastes have evolved over time and I no longer need a knife that can do it all. I’m fine with allowing knives to sit in niches in my rotation.
Thanks for the comparison, I was surprised the Grand won. I have the Rex 45 shaman and I tried the Fireside scales. You are right they are awesome! Now I want the Grand.
This was an awesome comparison. I love my Shaman even in the S30V. Would really like the Z wear you are talking about. However i know the Grand will make it into my collection as soon as they make more. It looks freaking awesome.
Another thing to consider is that the Grand looks tactical so in an office or public setting, i'd go for the shaman. I want to get one some day. I love my PM 2 so I assume I'd love the shaman.
Great comparison video. I agree with everything. For me it came down to a matter of slightly sexier knife vs compression lock beast. Shame that neither are ever in stock. So I went with serrated Shaman for now.
Asshole full of splinters, our protagonist gingerly slides off the fence he had been balancing on for the last 30 minutes... ....then out of the internet ether boomed a chorus, demanding.... "Choose or Die!!!"
I think you did a great job making the case for each knife. I am unsure of Giant Mouse some are pure fan boys and all their knives are great. Others are ehh on them. Their are probably those that feel the same about Spyderco. I really like my Shaman after I got over the price hike the same day. I will have to wait and see if I get the Giant Mouse how I feel about it.
Nice review and comparison! I recently got an Ace Grand through REC. It has the green Micarta Scales was extremely sharp as I could easily shave the hair on my arm. The quality of the knife was outstanding, so much so,, that I ordered the Sonoma and pocket carry clip right from Giant Mouse.. Don't have the Shaman, and probably will not ever get one, due to their scarcity(nothing against Spyderco, as I've got several of their knives in my Edc rotation). Of course, if the opportunity presents itself, I will jump on one 😉.
I don't want to come off like a hater, but you are comparing a sub 200 dollar knife to a sprint run Spyderco with 100 dollar scales on it. You have to be lucky enough to get in on a sprint run and then spend 100 dollars more on riverside scales. The real comparison should be the grand at 185 vs a stock S30V Shaman that still comes in over 200 dollars. Production run vs production run. I know you are trying to make it competitive and the grand was going to win anyway, but it just seems like every category the shaman competes in it's because of additional cost on top of what comes on the production run version. Terotuff scales and lynch clip are great, but by the time you add all that extra stuff on top of the cost of the production run you are now comparing a 180 dollar grand to almost a 400 dollar sprint run that you had to Frankenstein together to even compare it to a stock grand. Just my opinion, but I enjoy your content either way.
Great video. Spyderco have great designs and ideas, also ergo but the built quality is VERY unsatisfying according to price. Giant Mouse never dissapoints
I'm rather new to the knife market after taking a hiatus... and wow, have things changed. It's a bit infuriating what some of these makers are doing. Why such limited inventory? Several Spydercos I like are now out of stock. I have taken a liking to this GiantMouse Ace Grand, but it's sold out as well. And what's with the Bombshell's "flash" release? Seems a bunch of people bought a bunch of inventory to later flip for profit. This really sours the whole buying experience...
Just wanted to let you know...the ace grand is through the roof right now on Ebay (I know, shocking right?) I saw one sell this week for $436 + $9.99 shipping! I will wait for them to roll out the next batch and buy directly through Giant Mouse or blade HQ
Sometimes you can find an honest person here and there. I bought an m4 Shaman on the secondary market for the original price. Just gotta have a little patience.
The shaman is one of those funny “it factor” knives for me. I have knives that cut cardboard better (like the k390 endura or stretch 2…those things demolish cardboard…) and I have better slicers. But the shaman can pretty much do anything you ask of it and people blow its size/weight way out of proportion. Plus, it’s just so ergonomically beautiful…my z-wear shaman is the one knife I would have a *really* hard time selling.
You should look at it like that giantmouse has gone from nothing to competeing with spyderco in a couple of years, it should not be expected to even compete with the shaman at this stage but in the future it is hard not to imagine it overtaking it in a few years.
Alright son! I have two Shaymans, one is in satin S204p, and the other in M4 black coated. I also have a Ace Grand with the M390. One of these shits has to go. Which Shayman do i keep or do i keep two shaymans and sell ace grand. I can't decide. Tell me what to get rid of hahaha.
There's no comparison between the shaman and ace grand. SHAMAN hands down. The Shaman is harder stronger by far. My Ace grand just from opening and closing requires me to tighten the pivot, goes off center and left right blade play. I would not hesitate to use the shaman for hard use. It's solid, solid like a rock. I almost started singing there. Take a look at the off grid k Ives if not already done. Steel will also makes rock solid knives
When it comes to fit and finish, that rounded spine on the ace grand is a game changer for the ergos. The cost of aftermarket pieces, even after paying 20$-25$ more makes the ace grand a winner for me.
Bro this review is exactly what I needed thanks you just gained a sub
Does the Grand use T8 body screws?
I guess mouse tax stamp < spider tax stamp. lol
Do you like the biblio better than the grand?
Great video. I’d love to see the Shaman vs the Super Freek.
You've just made my choice between both these masterpieces which I've been contemplating for some time much easier. Thank you Bud!
Glad it was helpful! 🙌🏻
I really enjoyed this video, and can definitely see the value in the comparison between the 2 knives. But for me, I just wish the Shaman was stock in the comparison.
Hi, question about the m4 Shaman. Sounds like you weren't a fan of the m4- any particular reasons? I'm on the fence about the m4 and would appreciate any insight. Thanks. Chris.
This is the first video of yours I've seen, I have subscribed. I like your honest feedback and thorough detail. Also I'm waiting on my first Ace Grand to come in so the videos even that much nicer to see. Though I only found the Ace Grand because I was looking for a shaman lol.
Who made the scales for the Shaman?
Fireside Co 👍🏻
Thank you!!! Also, you said you didn’t like the other GIant mouse knives. Why? I’m looking at a biblio and everyone seems to rave about it. Just hype?
The biblio I got had a terrible action, the detent was too soft to reliably use the flipper tab. I’ve heard the newest generation has been improved though, they’re on gen 3 now from what I’ve heard 🤷🏼♂️
Wow, can’t wait for the next VS!
I’m sure it won’t be that long until I decide on another two to compare 💪🏻
Epic Battle of Outdoors EDC!!! I’m a new fan of GM, and The Ace Grand nailed it as an excellent Outdoorsy EDC folder, not necessary a Heavy Duty Outdoors EDC, as The Shaman!! Hear the echo?! Your “Epic Battle to Death” was 100% spot on every category. The finer points of the Grand’s wins & loses are my exact opinions. I did contemplate, “what if” the Grand had collaboration with Spyderco and added a Compression Lock & if the blade had a bit more razor sharp geometry?? It could be better, someday, but for now it has enough quality characteristics to stand as a production “CLASSIC” from renowned designers. Thanks BG for your entertaining & precise comparison!
Really glad to hear that you enjoyed it and that you agree 👊🏻🙌🏻
Great comparison . Look how popular these knives are even now but the shaman is an evergreen
Great comparison! Very thoughtful.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I appreciated this review. I think I’ll pass on the ACE, but man would I love a micarta knife with a rounded spine. Just perhaps a bit more slicey and with a different blade design.
Well here I am a year later. And I own a Grand. It’s a great knife. So is the Shaman. I’m about to get a Shaman, actually. Specifically to be a work knife. My tastes have evolved over time and I no longer need a knife that can do it all. I’m fine with allowing knives to sit in niches in my rotation.
Thanks for the comparison, I was surprised the Grand won. I have the Rex 45 shaman and I tried the Fireside scales. You are right they are awesome! Now I want the Grand.
Thanks for the great comparison!
Great vid! Great comparison
Thanks dude! 🤙🏻
This was an awesome comparison. I love my Shaman even in the S30V. Would really like the Z wear you are talking about. However i know the Grand will make it into my collection as soon as they make more. It looks freaking awesome.
Glad you enjoyed it buddy! Happy to let you check out my grand in the meantime!
@@beardedgear oooo. It new to you so only send it when you are done and you are out of the honeymoon phase. Lol
Once I’ve reviewed it it’s fair game dude, it’ll be in the next box I send your way 👊🏻
The sea foam green is fantastic looking
Thanks! I love it 🤘🏻
Another thing to consider is that the Grand looks tactical so in an office or public setting, i'd go for the shaman. I want to get one some day. I love my PM 2 so I assume I'd love the shaman.
You will love it . Just got one $250 is kinda high amd even more after adding cF scales
Love this comparison 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Great comparison video. I agree with everything. For me it came down to a matter of slightly sexier knife vs compression lock beast. Shame that neither are ever in stock. So I went with serrated Shaman for now.
Asshole full of splinters, our protagonist gingerly slides off the fence he had been balancing on for the last 30 minutes...
....then out of the internet ether boomed a chorus, demanding....
"Choose or Die!!!"
Love the video , do you think the super freek would roll with those two??
Yeah I think it does! Feels closer to the grand, it’s less robust than both though.
I think you did a great job making the case for each knife. I am unsure of Giant Mouse some are pure fan boys and all their knives are great. Others are ehh on them. Their are probably those that feel the same about Spyderco. I really like my Shaman after I got over the price hike the same day. I will have to wait and see if I get the Giant Mouse how I feel about it.
They’re both knives that I think will permanently be in my collection. Glad you enjoyed the video buddy!
great head to head, man! very well said
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it!
Nice review and comparison! I recently got an Ace Grand through REC. It has the green Micarta Scales was extremely sharp as I could easily shave the hair on my arm. The quality of the knife was outstanding, so much so,, that I ordered the Sonoma and pocket carry clip right from Giant Mouse..
Don't have the Shaman, and probably will not ever get one, due to their scarcity(nothing against Spyderco, as I've got several of their knives in my Edc rotation). Of course, if the opportunity presents itself, I will jump on one 😉.
I don't want to come off like a hater, but you are comparing a sub 200 dollar knife to a sprint run Spyderco with 100 dollar scales on it. You have to be lucky enough to get in on a sprint run and then spend 100 dollars more on riverside scales. The real comparison should be the grand at 185 vs a stock S30V Shaman that still comes in over 200 dollars. Production run vs production run. I know you are trying to make it competitive and the grand was going to win anyway, but it just seems like every category the shaman competes in it's because of additional cost on top of what comes on the production run version. Terotuff scales and lynch clip are great, but by the time you add all that extra stuff on top of the cost of the production run you are now comparing a 180 dollar grand to almost a 400 dollar sprint run that you had to Frankenstein together to even compare it to a stock grand. Just my opinion, but I enjoy your content either way.
Exactly!
Grand is back! Uddeholm Elmax ordered complete
I really appreciate the detailed comparison, but the amount of advertisements is bit too much (6 under 15 minutes of video) I think.
Great video. Spyderco have great designs and ideas, also ergo but the built quality is VERY unsatisfying according to price. Giant Mouse never dissapoints
I'm rather new to the knife market after taking a hiatus... and wow, have things changed. It's a bit infuriating what some of these makers are doing. Why such limited inventory? Several Spydercos I like are now out of stock. I have taken a liking to this GiantMouse Ace Grand, but it's sold out as well. And what's with the Bombshell's "flash" release? Seems a bunch of people bought a bunch of inventory to later flip for profit. This really sours the whole buying experience...
Just wanted to let you know...the ace grand is through the roof right now on Ebay (I know, shocking right?) I saw one sell this week for $436 + $9.99 shipping! I will wait for them to roll out the next batch and buy directly through Giant Mouse or blade HQ
Maybe I should sell mine and then buy another one when there’s more 😂😂
Bearded Gear do it and use the money to fund more purchases for knife reviews!
Tempting, but I don’t want to gamble on their QC again 😂😅
Anyone know when Giant Mouse will drop the next batch of these?
Bearded Gear honestly, fair point. I wish my local knife shop carried GM so I could check QC in person.
The Shaman is more knife but the mouse will always be a mouse.
Really long videos but you speak what I want to know
I’m not a fan of trying to keep things short, people who want quick videos shouldn’t subscribe 🤣🤣
The problem with the Shaman is that if you want better blade steel you have to rely on luck or getting taken on the secondary market.
Sometimes you can find an honest person here and there. I bought an m4 Shaman on the secondary market for the original price. Just gotta have a little patience.
The shaman is one of those funny “it factor” knives for me. I have knives that cut cardboard better (like the k390 endura or stretch 2…those things demolish cardboard…) and I have better slicers. But the shaman can pretty much do anything you ask of it and people blow its size/weight way out of proportion. Plus, it’s just so ergonomically beautiful…my z-wear shaman is the one knife I would have a *really* hard time selling.
Standart Shaman is overpriced knife for S30V
You should look at it like that giantmouse has gone from nothing to competeing with spyderco in a couple of years, it should not be expected to even compete with the shaman at this stage but in the future it is hard not to imagine it overtaking it in a few years.
Yes!!!!!! Battle of the Beasts!!!! Stand back Boys and Girls! Its gonna get Supa nasty! And yes..... Supa is a word in N.H. haha!
🤣🤣🤣
Alright son! I have two Shaymans, one is in satin S204p, and the other in M4 black coated. I also have a Ace Grand with the M390. One of these shits has to go. Which Shayman do i keep or do i keep two shaymans and sell ace grand. I can't decide. Tell me what to get rid of hahaha.
F yeah!
🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻
There's no comparison between the shaman and ace grand. SHAMAN hands down. The Shaman is harder stronger by far. My Ace grand just from opening and closing requires me to tighten the pivot, goes off center and left right blade play. I would not hesitate to use the shaman for hard use. It's solid, solid like a rock. I almost started singing there. Take a look at the off grid k Ives if not already done. Steel will also makes rock solid knives
Giant mouse ace grand is my favorite knife I own.
I think the shaman lost even harder in the value area since the one you are comparing has an after market clip and backspacer on it too?🤓
You still around ? Got enough knives now ? That’s how I go , every couple years I ll re surface
So the Ace Grand won! No wait … huh? The Shaman won. What? Wait. They both are winners but the Ace won more points though the Shaman won overall. 😝🥴
Subbed. I think I've been going to spam bud.