Love all my manix-2s! I paid $72 for my first 3) manix-2s in G-10/S30V, $151 for my "blurple" G-10/S110V model. The thing is a BEAST! mowing through 700+ feet of cardboard in an afternoon and still holding a solid working edge. Good stuff!
I have seen this video before, but, I had to see it again. I agree with you on all aspects. I made a mistake and sold my manix 2 lightweight, before. I miss it, still. You make me want to buy another one. I think I will. THIS IS.... A FANTASTIC REVIEW OF THIS KNIFE, THANK YOU, MR ROB! I have been watching reviews for years....you are in a special "Reviewer", class. You should be very proud of yourself. I hope you do not retire, anytime soon. I admire your style.
I love my s110v manix. It along with my m390 military are my 2 ultimate edc knives. Ive sold of a lot of my knives, spydercos, benchmades and others to buy a few customs and mid techs and use them from time to time but those 2 are my work horse knives. Like you I wasn't a huge fan of frn but when I got it in my hand I fell in love. It fits my big hands perfectly, its sooo light I almost dont feel it and talk about performance. I helped my dad clean out his garage and he had a whole buch of cardboard that needed to be cut down to fit into his garbage can. Lucky me I had my s110 manix and it made shirt work of a bunch of all types of cardboard. The can was almost full, only 6 inches or so to the top and it still could slice phonebook paper. Not great but it still did and after 20 swipes per side on .5 micron diamond spray on kangaroo leather it was back to razor sharp. It is harder to sharpen than some of my favorite steels like elmax, cts xhp, m390 cpm m4 but not by much. All of those are a bare compared to how easy nitrobe 77 is to sharpen and how insanely sharp it gets (shaves by gliding through nit touching the skin, cutting free hanging hair with ease and its almost silent when cutting phonebook paper, I never heard anything like it before) but thats another story.
Your opening comments is exactly how I got into spyderco's. Never handled one before, just decided to buy one, And now see why they are so popular. They're truly great.
The polish on those bevels is GORGEOUS! You did an amazing job on this one. I don't care much for the Delica/Endura/PM blade shape but the leaf shaped blades really appeal to me - I just picked up a grey LW Chaparral last week and keep a Tenacious in each vehicle. Something about the Manix 2 has been nagging at me to buy one for the last few months. I very nearly pulled the trigger on the same LW in this video but I just couldn't bring myself to buy a riveted knife that I couldn't disassemble for cleaning or modifying. I ended up ordering the Blue G10 with S110V yesterday (I feel lucky to have found one): I like the color, the design and really wanted to try the steel. I plan on upgrading to a Flytanium ball cage and Lynch NW deep carry clip but that's about it. Looking forward to getting a new large folder and this should fit the bill.
Just found this video. I bought one of these last month. As an owner of a couple of Benchmade Axis lock knives I have to say the Axis lock is smoother than the Manix 2 and that the plastic handle looks cheap compared to my Benchmade 710 G10 grip and 941 aluminum handle. That said, this Spyderco has become my EDC. The three ounce weight makes it seem to disappear in the pocket and I really like the S110V blade. The knife came out of the box sharper then my three Benchmade knives two of which 154CM and one S30V (I realize that was due to person sharpening the knives). The Manix 2 can be confusing when shopping for one because it comes in so many different blade steels and grip choices.
I have been carrying the orange s90v version of this knife for about two months now and I really like it. I gave it a light touch up sharpening and holy cow that steel fights pretty hard. It leaves you no room for error.
The steel is not the problem. I have said practically the same on another coment. I have a sprint run Delica in CPM S90V and with a guided system with diamond hones it is easy and rather quick, some few more passes (15 seconds plus?) than for example with CPM S35VN and that's all. It gets razor sharp.
Rob I was pleasantly surprised by the same knife. I mistakenly bought this blue handled beauty thinking I was getting the G10, stainless steel lined model. Due to my lack of reading ability I got the s110v FRN handled version. I have four Manix knives, 3 being g10 and the fourth is the XL. This would be my 5th and new user. It's ugly as my high school prom date but man for a light knife, this thing rocks. I'm in love with the S110v right now. I'm not on your level of sharpening, but dang can this steel take an edge. I'm a die hard S35v fan...it's the best all around super steel to me, but my opinion is right above dog poop. Thanks for the awesome videos.
I ordered the translucent blue BD-1 model, but got the opaque blue instead. I WAS PISSED cuz I wanted the translucent one. Then I saw the steel printed on the blade. So I pretty much got this for $73. I ordered the translucent one again too.
I just sharpened my s90v knife(940-1). I used a KME and liked the way it worked I don't polish like you but they are sharp. I do 20 deg I didn't find it bad at all. I use diamond stones.
I used to have a G10 Manix2... and really liked it a lot (I thought the saber/hollow grind on the blade looked cool... gave it a "cleaver-like" appearance). Never really had any problems cutting with it either... but honestly, opening boxes and mail and the usual EDC tasks doesn't require a FFG to do so effectively. :) Mine was pretty solid feeling too... and personally I think the ergos on the Manix2 are even better than on the Para2. BUT... I just never warmed to the caged ball bearing lock. Initially I found it entertaining... but in the end it was never as easy to operate as the Para2s compression lock... and not even close to the Axis lock (also, it's a fairly wide knife in the pocket IIRC). Anyway, I traded it for a (IIRC) a Yojimbo2 (which I then later sold to a friend). Ahh well... the comings and goings of knives in a knife knut's collection. :) All that said... I've been interested in this S110V version since it came out. The FRN was initially a turn off... but have found myself getting over much of my anti-FRN bias of late. It's that dang ball lock that I just don't think I'll warm to again. Still... I know I'd love how it feels in hand... and at just 2.9oz (my old one was 5oz!) it sure is intriguing.
They're not ugly or flimsy ... FRN doesn't feel as good in my hands as G10 does though, which is why I prefer G10 ... my FRN Native is a fine knife though. My manix 2 rocks G10 and CPM S30v.
Every time I'd watch this review I thought the blue looked lifeless because of the lighting or camera. Just realized that this isn't the translucent blue version. Anyway, the dark background material for the "desk" should be the required standard for knife reviews. The black is easy on the eye and shows the knives best. And it's softer, which avoids the clanking sound when a knife is set down on a hard surface. (Don't know why the minor clank should bother me, but it's just so nice when it's silent). It's also much classier than the carpet or towel that's often used.
I think 62 63 hrc. I Caire mine and use it daily and all I do is strop it at night. And it is by far the best steel I've used to date. There are some that come close. But nothing like s110v. It stays hair shaving sharp. Not popping but clean shaveing.
I passed it up and passed it up, cause the LW just didn’t appeal to me. Well bought the Manix2 black g10 and black doc blade… 1 week later StNicks drops their LW Manix2 exclusive and Yoink was able to grab one. Been carrying both for over a week now. I love the Shaman it is my fav Spyderco. I love the Leaf shape, Blade steels i don’t care about too much. I like s30v, cruwear, s35vn, cpm 20cv whatever even Aus10a. As long as it functions and is comfortable to use. I would like to get this one, buuuuut i don’t like the color and i don’t customize knives.
I never thought pulling down on that spring to disable the lock would be so stiff on the manix, my fingertips developed calluses after a day of messing around with it. Hopefully it loosens up in time. But your right it doesn't work as smoothly as the axis lock on benchmade and definitely nowhere near the smoothness of the able lock on the Hogue deka or doug ritter.
I love that manix2. I still carry mine often. I don't generally like the frn handles too much but it works well on the manix 2 and the native. I can also tolerate it a bit on the delica.
Instead softer (which in fact it's the opposite) I would define it as more delicate or brittle but a pocket knife is not a machete, the problem is in the user. Maxamet would be worse if you tortured it.
Would s110v be easily sharpenable in the field? I know it wouldnt be like sharpening at home but I always carry a worksharp field sharpener. Would this work ok?
I really appreciate your style of videomaking. You cover everything bit don't get overly wordy and ramble like some other channel. Keep up the great work!
Thanks for your video. As a fellow southpaw, I decided to order one of these. The axis-style lock should be much better for me than the compression lock on the PM2 that I currently carry. I'm also excited about the lower weight and the S110V steel. It should get here Wednesday...can't wait!
I got this knife. Im only 5.8, and 140 lbs, I'm too small for it. Pros........ 1) so light, and thin, it's lighter in your pocket than small knives, even on my small frame 2) you can circumcise a gnat 3) very high quality 4) no blade play 5) no junk movement Cons..... 1) better for bigger hands. I can't open/ close it easily 2) looks like a toy to me...I don't like the clear blue scales...idk how to change them. No screws 3) I should have gotten the delica, just too small for this knife This is an amazing knife. Now I know what the spyderco fever is all about. All the cons are just my opinions. Worth the money. If toy have been eyeing it for a while, get it.
I love the manix 2! My favorite work knife. Especially my tan m4. Great ergos, heavy duty but good slicing blade. The jimping is sexy and functional. Pretty easy to free hand sharpen. My only complaint is it is a little funny in the pocket.
Rob - with the additional rivots/positive points of location - this seems a bit better “engineered” than the regular manix/PM2 with its removable lanyard tube and finicky pivot - would you agree?
@TheApostleP - So you were pretty much saying that S110V is easier to sharpen over S90V? because that's the only thing really keeping me away is that people say S110V can be hard to sharpen.
Hey Rob, I actually considered this knife to purchase, but I didn't buy it in the end. I like the fact that they are not steel lined, the bladeshape and also the steels it is available in. But the german knife laws *sigh* well you can't carry one handed opening knives that lock. But I like the Manix line, I also see it as an alternative to the Para2, since the price for this is going crazy here in germany at least. Great video, enjoyed watching. Greetings, Soly
P.S. most of the manix 2 and native 5 in s110v are at around 62hrc. The mule is lower at 60 hrc. I gt that from a few forums and acfew guys that had their blades tested.
I have a steel - g10 manix 2 and love it. I never noticed the handle flex that you mentioned. The thing I like best is the value. I got it new for $85 , which is $50 less than the paramilitary 2 . The manix 2 is in my opinion a better knife than the para though not in style and raved about on various RUclips channels.
130bowman I might have given the wrong impression about the normal sized Manix 2's handle. I really don't notice the flex in that one. It's much more pronounced in the XL, which is also missing the front body screw that's present on the smaller Manix 2. The XL kinda blows, IMHO. In some designs, bigger isn't better, and the Manix 2 is a perfect example of that. I'm not sure I'd place the Manix 2 over the Para 2, however. But the differences certainly don't justify the price difference. If you dig the ergos of the Manix 2 over the Para 2, you got yourself a heck of a value!
The ball inside the lock nest is scratching the contact point on the blade tang inside when the lock isn't held back. Free swings fine when held open (back) but feels very cheesy-gritty when not. Very "Toy-Like". Not liking this one at all. Tried breaking it in repeatedly open/close, it's gotten worse. Surprised so many people fuss over how nice this is. Kept it for all of 3 hours, going back to its toy-store. I have the (smooth) XL, guess I'm spoiled.
How has the knife held up? And are the polymer scales durable? The only reason I want to get this knife is because of the blade steel, but not sure how the scales would hold up to light/medium use.
The only one I've seen/heard of breaking failed because the blade tang snapped not the handle. Honestly any abuse you put the scales through they'll take. The FFG blade will fail before the grip does. Especially in light/medium use you'll be fine. I own one and it's great!
Yep, I bought one because I didn’t like it, just a knife to treat badly. Wrong!! This is now one of my most carried knives. I still treat it rough but it can take it, steel holds an edge for a good amount of time.
I'm on my 3rd para 2 and last. The first 2 were tight and right. This one I own now wobbles side to side. If I tighten the play out it doesn't swing. It used to be my go to now it just sits waiting for me to practice sharpening lulz
+Stoney Beek I know it's really late but this might help with future spydies. I took manix 2 apart, cleaned it and took out any extra washers put in by mistake. Now I can tighten it all the way down and it's very smooth with no blade play
Joseph DeCarlo Wow, that's gonna be a tough one, Joey. You'll have to drill them out and go back in with pivots and screws from a knife maker's supply source. I generally don't recommend doing replacement scales on the riveted Spydies. It's a pretty big project. An operation like that is more well suited for the standard G10 Manix, which is put together with screws.
One recommendation I can give you, when I sharpen these high carbide steels, after im done with the 1000 grit edge pro stone to set the micro bevel, I use my .5 micron hand American diamond spray and do 1 very light spray on it and spread it around on the stone. Then I make a few passes for the micro bevel and get very high sharpness, even on these high carbide steels. I can tell by the sound when you cut the paper that it could be sharper. Im sure a professional sharpener like you can tell a lot just from the sound, once you sharpen a lot of knives in a lot of steels, you develop an ear for it. If you don't mind, what angle do you usually use on the knives? I know it depends on the geometry but on your average spyderco which are at about the same thickness, what do you sharpen them at? Thank you and God bless.
D00MTR33 I normally trend toward "Spyderco geometry" on most folders, 15 DPS secondary, 18 micro. That seems to be a pretty good all purpose set of angles for most knives, but as you said, edge geometry is most often suggested by blade geometry.
to be fair to the knife in regards to the pinned construction, taking any spyderco knife apart voids the warranty, but they do have a lifetime warranty iirc. i disagree with it but i believe they do build their knives with the expectation that people wont take them apart.
Great vid man, up until you mentioned that the Manix 2 XL is "flimsy" for it's size. I call full bunk on that statement. I have hard used the Manix 2 XL for the last two years, and "flimsy" it is not. I do know we are just voicing opinions here, but saying the Manix 2 XL is flimsy? Not a chance in heavenly France. I sure do like your vid on this Manix 2 Lightweight though, specifically because I am purchasing it to be my pretty little version of the Manix 2 XL for when I wear slacks.
FrikinTastik Now hold on there, pilgrim! That wasn't an opinion at all. Check out my 2-video series on the XL. Versus the G10 regular size Manix 2, the XL lacks a fastener, in front and above the pivot -- yep, a larger knife with one FEWER fastener than the smaller knife. Also, the handle flex in the XL is quite obvious. Just hold it on its side with the blade closed, one hand on each end, and bend it. It doesn't take much effort to watch the blade tip of the bladego from one side to the other in the blade well. I'm not sayng it will fail, but it's a flimsy knife.
+TheApostleP Hi Rob, I was wondering why aren't you a fan of cts bd1? Id think that it would be a steel thats in a class you like since you said you were fond of aus 8. Btw, spyderco runs their cpm s110v at about 62hrc. I'm looking forward to a para 2 in it thats coming out soon as well as a military.
I have a Manix 2 and a Paramilitary 2 in that steel, both with G10 scales. No problem to sharpen them with a Lansky or Gatco systems with diamond hones. Maybe I wouldn't be able to achieve it freehand or with a Spyderco Sharpmaker but... who cares?
Hello sir..just bought this manix and like it a lot..juat wondering how much u charge for your sharpening service? I couldnt find any info on your channel..thanks
Jeff D Search "sharpening service" on my channel page. All the info is either in the video or the description, Jeff, complete with contact and shipping info.
Manix2 LW is one of my favorite summer carry knives because the weight works so well in light shorts. How do you like S110v compared to XHP? I have a 110v mule in my safe, but havent sharpened or used it yet.
Zechs00GT I think I prefer SHP to S110V, but not by much. I tend to like steels that take an edge more easily and ultimately take a more razor sharp edge than I do steels with ultimate edge retention. XHP, in my experience is right up there with 154CM and D2 for taking an edge, perhaps a little better even than S30V. I love the stuff! I wish more mfr's would use it.
I know this is late but try leaving it halfway open overnight at least, a day or more would be better. It'll keep the spring compressed and most times softness it up. Works on back lock knives too, did that with the few cold steel knives I've had and it made a difference.
Damn... can't ever seem to buy the right steels. I lost my BD1 Manix 2 LW then I saw the exclusive S90V version in orange and thought that'd be the one to replace it with. Now that I'm researching after the fact not too much "good" things out there on the S90V version........
Hey guys, Anybody have a suggestion on how to center the blade on my Manix 2? (G-10 version) just got it yesterday & that's the only thing that is not perfect about it! any suggestions? thanks,
Believe it or not... Bend the handle. Really, no kidding. They're actually pretty flimsy. Just place the knife on the corner of a table or counter top and lean on it until it's right.
Say Heah A P (Rob), I found this video and now I don't have to find the appropriate video, I'll just post on here, I just got my thirds RatManDu I have two in the INFI and one in the SR101, it took me that many to fine tune what I wanted in my bush knife, I had this one I wanted it thin down and it came out beautiful, very thin edge and shaves out of the box, Yeah Rob I think I found my Fav's, at a fast glance it reminds me of my Benchmade Bushcrafter #162 that high Saber Grind that's very sharp, Now I have a larger version which elates me to no end, sort of a cross between a bushcraft knife and a survival knife, Yup, again I can say for sure, it's my Fav's, , ,
I have a worksharp (not the Ken Onion one) belted sharpener, and have been drooling over this knife for a while. I have the belts it came with, would they be able to sharpen an S110V blade, or would I need to buy new belts? (Or, worst case, can It not sharpen a blade like this) Thanks!
MsF4ucorsair I have Ken Onion work sharp, and it works fine on this knife with s110v steel and makes the sharpening pretty easy ,much easier than spyderco sharpmaker in my opinion.
I have this knife in s110v. It came out of the box not sharp enough to shave arm hair. I wrote Spyderco and they said they will sharpen it for free but want five dollars shipping and handling fee. Or at least thats what I think the five dollars is for. Will send it in and see how they do. But I will not own another Spyderco. Just disappointed with the experience so far. Thank you for your videos. Very informative. But just not for me.
Calmfriedtofu if it was full deep carry with that clip. Then it would be the best. Noone would ever be able to guess its a blade. But the knife sticks up
i can clearly see you have not experienced the steels you are refering to. S110V is almost a ceramic. it doesnt sharpen, doesnt get very far past kinda shaves for fineness, and chips dull in a few cuts. it is a very bad material for a knife, my tenacious lasted about 10x longer on green branches and cardboard and grass cutting. i tried it at 15dps high polish, 15dps 600 grit, and again at 20 to try and make it stable and same story. and no its not fake because of how stupidly long it takes to sharpen. elmax is very easy to sharpen and has drop a hair on the edge and it splits sharpness even with lower than polish grits and you say it doesnt get very sharp and is hard to sharpen. i guess to each their own. s90v wasnt nearly as bad as this. i hate this knife a lot. would rather have it in 440c or 154cm. now like the ceramic it is, maybe in the kitchen is its calling
I couldn't disagree with your characterization of S90V, S110V and Elmax more. I can clearly see you have not experienced the steels you are referring to. I sharpen these steels every day... literally every day. You don't seem to know what you're talking about. Perhaps you should ask the question: "Can I really believe everything I read on the forums while I'm eating Fruit Loops in my pajamas in Mom's basement?"
Is there an email address i can send some pictures too to see if i can get some help? I have been sharpening knives for ten years. It is the only thing im good at, and my friends with the wicked edge tell me i do well. I am very very frustrated and dissapointed with this knife. I got it for my birthday this month.I read about the alloy and was hooked. I had to have it. As i delved into the realms of steel alloys over the years i favored wear resistance over toughness so seeing what was in s110v gave me a high expectation of it and it let me down big time. Is there a possability mine is defective? Its probably hard to heat treat. What angle and grit gives s110v good edge holding? Ill give it another try at what you reccomend but im seriously bummed. I have a dmt magnaguide. And we have a garage, not a basement. And i avoid forums as much as i can. Thanks
Elmax is incredibly hard and harder to sharpen than most steels, however it takes the best polish in my opinion. S110v hasn't given me any sharpening woes.
S110v rolls it's edge. If yours is chipping, you are either using it wrong or got a lemon. I own & operate a recycling business, and my main source of income is recycled corrugated cardboard. I'd guarantee I cut more cardboard up in a week than most "cut test guys" in the entirety of their lives. It's really hard to beat s30&s35 in my opinion, when looking at difficulty of sharpening.
Everyone talks about the steels and blade. That Rob actually cares and will talk about the other 50% of the knife is very helpful to anyone who actually wants to use their knives.
![[SFM] Risky Recital](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/RzNkY1_Nk3o/mqdefault.jpg)
Love all my manix-2s! I paid $72 for my first 3) manix-2s in G-10/S30V, $151 for my "blurple" G-10/S110V model. The thing is a BEAST! mowing through 700+ feet of cardboard in an afternoon and still holding a solid working edge.
Good stuff!
I have seen this video before, but, I had to see it again. I agree with you on all aspects. I made a mistake and sold my manix 2 lightweight, before. I miss it, still. You make me want to buy another one. I think I will. THIS IS.... A FANTASTIC REVIEW OF THIS KNIFE, THANK YOU, MR ROB! I have been watching reviews for years....you are in a special "Reviewer", class. You should be very proud of yourself. I hope you do not retire, anytime soon. I admire your style.
I love my s110v manix. It along with my m390 military are my 2 ultimate edc knives. Ive sold of a lot of my knives, spydercos, benchmades and others to buy a few customs and mid techs and use them from time to time but those 2 are my work horse knives. Like you I wasn't a huge fan of frn but when I got it in my hand I fell in love. It fits my big hands perfectly, its sooo light I almost dont feel it and talk about performance. I helped my dad clean out his garage and he had a whole buch of cardboard that needed to be cut down to fit into his garbage can. Lucky me I had my s110 manix and it made shirt work of a bunch of all types of cardboard. The can was almost full, only 6 inches or so to the top and it still could slice phonebook paper. Not great but it still did and after 20 swipes per side on .5 micron diamond spray on kangaroo leather it was back to razor sharp. It is harder to sharpen than some of my favorite steels like elmax, cts xhp, m390 cpm m4 but not by much. All of those are a bare compared to how easy nitrobe 77 is to sharpen and how insanely sharp it gets (shaves by gliding through nit touching the skin, cutting free hanging hair with ease and its almost silent when cutting phonebook paper, I never heard anything like it before) but thats another story.
Manix FRN Tip... Throw a Spyderco Sage pocket clip on it and enjoy deep pocket carry!:) $6 from Spyderco
Your opening comments is exactly how I got into spyderco's. Never handled one before, just decided to buy one, And now see why they are so popular. They're truly great.
When you said was Eric Glesser was a tweaker at first I thought you meant he was a meth head. Lol. Glad to know he's just a tinkerer.
That was pretty cool seeing my knife on your channel. Guys you haven't felt sharp until you get a knife sharpened by Rob.
The polish on those bevels is GORGEOUS! You did an amazing job on this one.
I don't care much for the Delica/Endura/PM blade shape but the leaf shaped blades really appeal to me - I just picked up a grey LW Chaparral last week and keep a Tenacious in each vehicle. Something about the Manix 2 has been nagging at me to buy one for the last few months. I very nearly pulled the trigger on the same LW in this video but I just couldn't bring myself to buy a riveted knife that I couldn't disassemble for cleaning or modifying. I ended up ordering the Blue G10 with S110V yesterday (I feel lucky to have found one): I like the color, the design and really wanted to try the steel. I plan on upgrading to a Flytanium ball cage and Lynch NW deep carry clip but that's about it. Looking forward to getting a new large folder and this should fit the bill.
Just found this video. I bought one of these last month. As an owner of a couple of Benchmade Axis lock knives I have to say the Axis lock is smoother than the Manix 2 and that the plastic handle looks cheap compared to my Benchmade 710 G10 grip and 941 aluminum handle. That said, this Spyderco has become my EDC. The three ounce weight makes it seem to disappear in the pocket and I really like the S110V blade. The knife came out of the box sharper then my three Benchmade knives two of which 154CM and one S30V (I realize that was due to person sharpening the knives). The Manix 2 can be confusing when shopping for one because it comes in so many different blade steels and grip choices.
Warning watching this video may cause you to buy this model like it did for me.
Jesus Garcia
Happened to me.
`
Jesus Garcia and a 100$ new stone :)
I have been carrying the orange s90v version of this knife for about two months now and I really like it. I gave it a light touch up sharpening and holy cow that steel fights pretty hard. It leaves you no room for error.
The steel is not the problem. I have said practically the same on another coment. I have a sprint run Delica in CPM S90V and with a guided system with diamond hones it is easy and rather quick, some few more passes (15 seconds plus?) than for example with CPM S35VN and that's all. It gets razor sharp.
I have the exact model and absolutely love! Needs a good edge put on it to replace the factory job, this steel is new to me.
It's crazy to stumble on this four year old comment after watching a lot of your guy's content only within the last year. Haha
The manix 2 is my edc knife . It’s used for ever from general everyday and works crap to taking the back straps out of red deer. Great blades.
sold. Thanks Rob. Haven't had a blade in s110v yet, but love my Dragonfly in vg10. Time for a big brother for it, so this one is in the mail.
Recently picked up this exact model, I agree, this is the Manix to get!
What did it cost you?
Rob I was pleasantly surprised by the same knife. I mistakenly bought this blue handled beauty thinking I was getting the G10, stainless steel lined model. Due to my lack of reading ability I got the s110v FRN handled version. I have four Manix knives, 3 being g10 and the fourth is the XL. This would be my 5th and new user. It's ugly as my high school prom date but man for a light knife, this thing rocks. I'm in love with the S110v right now. I'm not on your level of sharpening, but dang can this steel take an edge. I'm a die hard S35v fan...it's the best all around super steel to me, but my opinion is right above dog poop. Thanks for the awesome videos.
I ordered the translucent blue BD-1 model, but got the opaque blue instead. I WAS PISSED cuz I wanted the translucent one. Then I saw the steel printed on the blade.
So I pretty much got this for $73.
I ordered the translucent one again too.
You definitely know your knives Rob!!!especially steel and designs. Preferences are preferences but knowledge is consistency with you my friend.
I just sharpened my s90v knife(940-1). I used a KME and liked the way it worked I don't polish like you but they are sharp. I do 20 deg I didn't find it bad at all. I use diamond stones.
my first spyderco, and probably one of the best overall...
I used to have a G10 Manix2... and really liked it a lot (I thought the saber/hollow grind on the blade looked cool... gave it a "cleaver-like" appearance). Never really had any problems cutting with it either... but honestly, opening boxes and mail and the usual EDC tasks doesn't require a FFG to do so effectively. :) Mine was pretty solid feeling too... and personally I think the ergos on the Manix2 are even better than on the Para2. BUT... I just never warmed to the caged ball bearing lock. Initially I found it entertaining... but in the end it was never as easy to operate as the Para2s compression lock... and not even close to the Axis lock (also, it's a fairly wide knife in the pocket IIRC). Anyway, I traded it for a (IIRC) a Yojimbo2 (which I then later sold to a friend). Ahh well... the comings and goings of knives in a knife knut's collection. :)
All that said... I've been interested in this S110V version since it came out. The FRN was initially a turn off... but have found myself getting over much of my anti-FRN bias of late. It's that dang ball lock that I just don't think I'll warm to again. Still... I know I'd love how it feels in hand... and at just 2.9oz (my old one was 5oz!) it sure is intriguing.
They're not ugly or flimsy ... FRN doesn't feel as good in my hands as G10 does though, which is why I prefer G10 ... my FRN Native is a fine knife though. My manix 2 rocks G10 and CPM S30v.
Every time I'd watch this review I thought the blue looked lifeless because of the lighting or camera. Just realized that this isn't the translucent blue version. Anyway, the dark background material for the "desk" should be the required standard for knife reviews. The black is easy on the eye and shows the knives best. And it's softer, which avoids the clanking sound when a knife is set down on a hard surface. (Don't know why the minor clank should bother me, but it's just so nice when it's silent). It's also much classier than the carpet or towel that's often used.
I think 62 63 hrc. I Caire mine and use it daily and all I do is strop it at night. And it is by far the best steel I've used to date. There are some that come close. But nothing like s110v. It stays hair shaving sharp. Not popping but clean shaveing.
I passed it up and passed it up, cause the LW just didn’t appeal to me.
Well bought the Manix2 black g10 and black doc blade… 1 week later StNicks drops their LW Manix2 exclusive and Yoink was able to grab one.
Been carrying both for over a week now.
I love the Shaman it is my fav Spyderco.
I love the Leaf shape, Blade steels i don’t care about too much.
I like s30v, cruwear, s35vn, cpm 20cv whatever even Aus10a. As long as it functions and is comfortable to use.
I would like to get this one, buuuuut i don’t like the color and i don’t customize knives.
I never thought pulling down on that spring to disable the lock would be so stiff on the manix, my fingertips developed calluses after a day of messing around with it. Hopefully it loosens up in time. But your right it doesn't work as smoothly as the axis lock on benchmade and definitely nowhere near the smoothness of the able lock on the Hogue deka or doug ritter.
I love that manix2. I still carry mine often. I don't generally like the frn handles too much but it works well on the manix 2 and the native. I can also tolerate it a bit on the delica.
S110V is a bit softer than S30V. I like good edge retention but I also like good toughness so the blade isn't brittle.
Instead softer (which in fact it's the opposite) I would define it as more delicate or brittle but a pocket knife is not a machete, the problem is in the user. Maxamet would be worse if you tortured it.
Would s110v be easily sharpenable in the field? I know it wouldnt be like sharpening at home but I always carry a worksharp field sharpener. Would this work ok?
Never known the standard manix-2 to be anything other than rock solid and rigid though.
I really appreciate your style of videomaking. You cover everything bit don't get overly wordy and ramble like some other channel. Keep up the great work!
Ryan Berry Thanks for saying so, but I get plenty wordy! My Sebenza review is almost an hour long :)
Thanks for your video. As a fellow southpaw, I decided to order one of these. The axis-style lock should be much better for me than the compression lock on the PM2 that I currently carry. I'm also excited about the lower weight and the S110V steel. It should get here Wednesday...can't wait!
you can get a left handed pm2.
I got this knife. Im only 5.8, and 140 lbs, I'm too small for it.
Pros........
1) so light, and thin, it's lighter in your pocket than small knives, even on my small frame
2) you can circumcise a gnat
3) very high quality
4) no blade play
5) no junk movement
Cons.....
1) better for bigger hands. I can't open/ close it easily
2) looks like a toy to me...I don't like the clear blue scales...idk how to change them. No screws
3) I should have gotten the delica, just too small for this knife
This is an amazing knife. Now I know what the spyderco fever is all about. All the cons are just my opinions. Worth the money. If toy have been eyeing it for a while, get it.
Am I the only one that thinks a clear/transparent version would be cool as hell? Imagine, an invisible knife......a ghost knife......
I love the manix 2! My favorite work knife. Especially my tan m4. Great ergos, heavy duty but good slicing blade. The jimping is sexy and functional. Pretty easy to free hand sharpen. My only complaint is it is a little funny in the pocket.
After watching this video, I cancelled an order for another knife & ordered this one instead! Thanks, Mr Rob.
I'm buying one tomorrow. Looks good to me. Thanks Rob.
Rob - with the additional rivots/positive points of location - this seems a bit better “engineered” than the regular manix/PM2 with its removable lanyard tube and finicky pivot - would you agree?
@TheApostleP - So you were pretty much saying that S110V is easier to sharpen over S90V? because that's the only thing really keeping me away is that people say S110V can be hard to sharpen.
Burkinater 48 That is my experience.
Hey Rob,
I actually considered this knife to purchase, but I didn't buy it in the end. I like the fact that they are not steel lined, the bladeshape and also the steels it is available in. But the german knife laws *sigh* well you can't carry one handed opening knives that lock. But I like the Manix line, I also see it as an alternative to the Para2, since the price for this is going crazy here in germany at least.
Great video, enjoyed watching.
Greetings,
Soly
Just got the all black g10 and it’s super cool and feels amazing
P.S. most of the manix 2 and native 5 in s110v are at around 62hrc. The mule is lower at 60 hrc. I gt that from a few forums and acfew guys that had their blades tested.
I wish they made a Mini Manix 2 and a Mini Para 2!! that would be awesome. Great Vid Rob
I have a steel - g10 manix 2 and love it. I never noticed the handle flex that you mentioned. The thing I like best is the value. I got it new for $85 , which is $50 less than the paramilitary 2 . The manix 2 is in my opinion a better knife than the para though not in style and raved about on various RUclips channels.
130bowman I might have given the wrong impression about the normal sized Manix 2's handle. I really don't notice the flex in that one. It's much more pronounced in the XL, which is also missing the front body screw that's present on the smaller Manix 2. The XL kinda blows, IMHO. In some designs, bigger isn't better, and the Manix 2 is a perfect example of that. I'm not sure I'd place the Manix 2 over the Para 2, however. But the differences certainly don't justify the price difference. If you dig the ergos of the Manix 2 over the Para 2, you got yourself a heck of a value!
Excellent review! Thanks Rob!
The ball inside the lock nest is scratching the contact point on the blade tang inside when the lock isn't held back. Free swings fine when held open (back) but feels very cheesy-gritty when not. Very "Toy-Like". Not liking this one at all. Tried breaking it in repeatedly open/close, it's gotten worse. Surprised so many people fuss over how nice this is. Kept it for all of 3 hours, going back to its toy-store. I have the (smooth) XL, guess I'm spoiled.
How has the knife held up? And are the polymer scales durable? The only reason I want to get this knife is because of the blade steel, but not sure how the scales would hold up to light/medium use.
The only one I've seen/heard of breaking failed because the blade tang snapped not the handle. Honestly any abuse you put the scales through they'll take. The FFG blade will fail before the grip does. Especially in light/medium use you'll be fine. I own one and it's great!
Teo Sanchez Thank you.
Plus this is the same handle that all dragonflys, delicas, and enduras have been using for years.
such a great discussion . great videos
Yep, I bought one because I didn’t like it, just a knife to treat badly.
Wrong!! This is now one of my most carried knives. I still treat it rough but it can take it, steel holds an edge for a good amount of time.
I just bought the orange one from Jeff! Hell of a nice guy there at the cutlery shoppe. Can't wait to get that sucker in my greasy little hands.
I like the LW, but it would be nice if you could take the knife apart for cleaning.
Enjoyed the video brother and a nice edge you put on that knife.May all have the blessings of the Lord upon him.
Randy Parker Thanks, Randy! Have a blessed weekend, brother!
I'm surprised to hear you've had is issues with the para 2. I have two of them and the centering is fine and no side to side play.
I'm on my 3rd para 2 and last. The first 2 were tight and right. This one I own now wobbles side to side. If I tighten the play out it doesn't swing. It used to be my go to now it just sits waiting for me to practice sharpening lulz
+Stoney Beek I know it's really late but this might help with future spydies. I took manix 2 apart, cleaned it and took out any extra washers put in by mistake. Now I can tighten it all the way down and it's very smooth with no blade play
Hey Rob,
I've just purchased this knife, along with a set of G10 scales for it. How would I go about removing the pins to swap in the new scales?
Joey
Joseph DeCarlo Wow, that's gonna be a tough one, Joey. You'll have to drill them out and go back in with pivots and screws from a knife maker's supply source. I generally don't recommend doing replacement scales on the riveted Spydies. It's a pretty big project. An operation like that is more well suited for the standard G10 Manix, which is put together with screws.
+Joseph DeCarlo id say id just buy the regular manix 2 and take apart the S110v Manix and switch the blades
+Joseph DeCarlo thats if youre able to open those pins to take the S110v blade out to switch it .
You didn't mention the grind angle? Can you please tell me what you sharpen the Manix 2 XL at? Thank you!
As with almost all Spydies, I just clean up the factory angle, which is 15 degrees per side with a 19ish microbevel.
+theapostlep Thinking about getting one of these in G10 scales. Would you choose it over the Sage5?
One recommendation I can give you, when I sharpen these high carbide steels, after im done with the 1000 grit edge pro stone to set the micro bevel, I use my .5 micron hand American diamond spray and do 1 very light spray on it and spread it around on the stone. Then I make a few passes for the micro bevel and get very high sharpness, even on these high carbide steels. I can tell by the sound when you cut the paper that it could be sharper. Im sure a professional sharpener like you can tell a lot just from the sound, once you sharpen a lot of knives in a lot of steels, you develop an ear for it. If you don't mind, what angle do you usually use on the knives? I know it depends on the geometry but on your average spyderco which are at about the same thickness, what do you sharpen them at? Thank you and God bless.
D00MTR33 I normally trend toward "Spyderco geometry" on most folders, 15 DPS secondary, 18 micro. That seems to be a pretty good all purpose set of angles for most knives, but as you said, edge geometry is most often suggested by blade geometry.
to be fair to the knife in regards to the pinned construction, taking any spyderco knife apart voids the warranty, but they do have a lifetime warranty iirc. i disagree with it but i believe they do build their knives with the expectation that people wont take them apart.
ButtersGettingHard
From what I recently heard, Spyderco just changed their policy to cover their products regardless of disassembly.
Great vid man, up until you mentioned that the Manix 2 XL is "flimsy" for it's size. I call full bunk on that statement. I have hard used the Manix 2 XL for the last two years, and "flimsy" it is not. I do know we are just voicing opinions here, but saying the Manix 2 XL is flimsy? Not a chance in heavenly France.
I sure do like your vid on this Manix 2 Lightweight though, specifically because I am purchasing it to be my pretty little version of the Manix 2 XL for when I wear slacks.
FrikinTastik Now hold on there, pilgrim! That wasn't an opinion at all. Check out my 2-video series on the XL. Versus the G10 regular size Manix 2, the XL lacks a fastener, in front and above the pivot -- yep, a larger knife with one FEWER fastener than the smaller knife. Also, the handle flex in the XL is quite obvious. Just hold it on its side with the blade closed, one hand on each end, and bend it. It doesn't take much effort to watch the blade tip of the bladego from one side to the other in the blade well. I'm not sayng it will fail, but it's a flimsy knife.
+TheApostleP Hi Rob, I was wondering why aren't you a fan of cts bd1? Id think that it would be a steel thats in a class you like since you said you were fond of aus 8. Btw, spyderco runs their cpm s110v at about 62hrc. I'm looking forward to a para 2 in it thats coming out soon as well as a military.
I have a Manix 2 and a Paramilitary 2 in that steel, both with G10 scales. No problem to sharpen them with a Lansky or Gatco systems with diamond hones. Maybe I wouldn't be able to achieve it freehand or with a Spyderco Sharpmaker but... who cares?
Great table top !
Hello sir..just bought this manix and like it a lot..juat wondering how much u charge for your sharpening service? I couldnt find any info on your channel..thanks
Jeff D Search "sharpening service" on my channel page. All the info is either in the video or the description, Jeff, complete with contact and shipping info.
That was an awesome review. Very informative.
Manix2 LW is one of my favorite summer carry knives because the weight works so well in light shorts.
How do you like S110v compared to XHP? I have a 110v mule in my safe, but havent sharpened or used it yet.
Zechs00GT I think I prefer SHP to S110V, but not by much. I tend to like steels that take an edge more easily and ultimately take a more razor sharp edge than I do steels with ultimate edge retention. XHP, in my experience is right up there with 154CM and D2 for taking an edge, perhaps a little better even than S30V. I love the stuff! I wish more mfr's would use it.
TheApostleP Thanks. I am a real big fan of 154CM, but still need to get my hands on something with XHP and D2. Needs vs wants... blah blah blah.
I have the bd1 version and for light use edc it is great.
2:08 they are flimsy because there are no liners to make it lighter
Can the blade be removed without removing the fixed rivets?
any advise on looseing the lock up had mine for a year still need to pulll it hard
I know this is late but try leaving it halfway open overnight at least, a day or more would be better. It'll keep the spring compressed and most times softness it up. Works on back lock knives too, did that with the few cold steel knives I've had and it made a difference.
Damn... can't ever seem to buy the right steels. I lost my BD1 Manix 2 LW then I saw the exclusive S90V version in orange and thought that'd be the one to replace it with. Now that I'm researching after the fact not too much "good" things out there on the S90V version........
bro send it my way. s90v is for sure my favorite steel but i havent tried s110v which im sure will take its place.
i love your reviews !
Great review brother!
Some ppl say they can't keep or get this one as sharp as it should be......??
What are your rates for sharpening?
how do you sharpen your knives?
Hey guys, Anybody have a suggestion on how to center the blade on my Manix 2? (G-10 version) just got it yesterday & that's the only thing that is not perfect about it! any suggestions? thanks,
Believe it or not... Bend the handle. Really, no kidding. They're actually pretty flimsy. Just place the knife on the corner of a table or counter top and lean on it until it's right.
that FRN is great stuff.
Say Heah A P (Rob), I found this video and now I don't have to find the appropriate video, I'll just post on here, I just got my thirds RatManDu I have two in the INFI and one in the SR101, it took me that many to fine tune what I wanted in my bush knife, I had this one I wanted it thin down and it came out beautiful, very thin edge and shaves out of the box, Yeah Rob I think I found my Fav's, at a fast glance it reminds me of my Benchmade Bushcrafter #162 that high Saber Grind that's very sharp, Now I have a larger version which elates me to no end, sort of a cross between a bushcraft knife and a survival knife, Yup, again I can say for sure, it's my Fav's, , ,
Call me stupid, but what's up with tying a zip tie around the top of the spydie hole?
Paul Hughes
People do that so they can get the auto opening effect that the Emerson wave provides.
Just made the deal one one.God bless.
Even if it's the G-10 version?
Haha. When you said he's a tweeker I though you meant meth tweeker. Great Vid rob.
Hahahaha I was thinking the exact same thing. Tinkerer may be a better descriptive term for Eric Glesser.
I can dig it!
CANYOU DIG IT!
If only they would put that lock in the FRN Chaparral.
Wouldn't work. The lock is too thick for Chaparrals 2 mm blade plus the frame is too small to house it.
I have a worksharp (not the Ken Onion one) belted sharpener, and have been drooling over this knife for a while. I have the belts it came with, would they be able to sharpen an S110V blade, or would I need to buy new belts? (Or, worst case, can It not sharpen a blade like this)
Thanks!
MsF4ucorsair If I have to buy a new sharpener, can a spyderco sharpmaker do it?
MsF4ucorsair I have Ken Onion work sharp, and it works fine on this knife with s110v steel and makes the sharpening pretty easy ,much easier than spyderco sharpmaker in my opinion.
thanks!
+MsF4ucorsair Be careful you're grinding off a lot of steel with each sharpening .
that's true.
Amen!
S110v and s90v have the same amount of vanadium.
I have this knife but the steel chips too easily........
I just wish it had screws
I have this knife in s110v. It came out of the box not sharp enough to shave arm hair. I wrote Spyderco and they said they will sharpen it for free but want five dollars shipping and handling fee. Or at least thats what I think the five dollars is for. Will send it in and see how they do. But I will not own another Spyderco. Just disappointed with the experience so far. Thank you for your videos. Very informative. But just not for me.
Thumbs Up!
You should never polish s110v!!!
The clip on that knife looks like a paper clip.
and its genius
Best knife clip on the market
where can I buy it?
It's very strong
Calmfriedtofu if it was full deep carry with that clip. Then it would be the best. Noone would ever be able to guess its a blade. But the knife sticks up
Hey Rob, just a heads up I sent you a message on Facebook. I'd like to send you my Manix as well. Get back to me when you can.
Oscar
Hey Oscar. I'll look for it. Stand by...
tweaker must have a different meaning in the knife world .just joking.
I'm not a fan of Benchmade's zytel handles either. It just looks and feels cheap.
It looks ugly unless you have it in person that knife.
but, but... S110V doesn't take a polished edge!!!
It must be trick photography ;)
i can clearly see you have not experienced the steels you are refering to. S110V is almost a ceramic. it doesnt sharpen, doesnt get very far past kinda shaves for fineness, and chips dull in a few cuts. it is a very bad material for a knife, my tenacious lasted about 10x longer on green branches and cardboard and grass cutting. i tried it at 15dps high polish, 15dps 600 grit, and again at 20 to try and make it stable and same story. and no its not fake because of how stupidly long it takes to sharpen. elmax is very easy to sharpen and has drop a hair on the edge and it splits sharpness even with lower than polish grits and you say it doesnt get very sharp and is hard to sharpen. i guess to each their own. s90v wasnt nearly as bad as this. i hate this knife a lot. would rather have it in 440c or 154cm. now like the ceramic it is, maybe in the kitchen is its calling
I couldn't disagree with your characterization of S90V, S110V and Elmax more. I can clearly see you have not experienced the steels you are referring to. I sharpen these steels every day... literally every day. You don't seem to know what you're talking about. Perhaps you should ask the question: "Can I really believe everything I read on the forums while I'm eating Fruit Loops in my pajamas in Mom's basement?"
Is there an email address i can send some pictures too to see if i can get some help? I have been sharpening knives for ten years. It is the only thing im good at, and my friends with the wicked edge tell me i do well. I am very very frustrated and dissapointed with this knife. I got it for my birthday this month.I read about the alloy and was hooked. I had to have it. As i delved into the realms of steel alloys over the years i favored wear resistance over toughness so seeing what was in s110v gave me a high expectation of it and it let me down big time. Is there a possability mine is defective? Its probably hard to heat treat. What angle and grit gives s110v good edge holding? Ill give it another try at what you reccomend but im seriously bummed. I have a dmt magnaguide. And we have a garage, not a basement. And i avoid forums as much as i can. Thanks
Elmax is incredibly hard and harder to sharpen than most steels, however it takes the best polish in my opinion. S110v hasn't given me any sharpening woes.
S110v rolls it's edge. If yours is chipping, you are either using it wrong or got a lemon. I own & operate a recycling business, and my main source of income is recycled corrugated cardboard. I'd guarantee I cut more cardboard up in a week than most "cut test guys" in the entirety of their lives. It's really hard to beat s30&s35 in my opinion, when looking at difficulty of sharpening.
i am a jabroney tghjfggdtret
Tooooo long of a vid. Could’ve been done in two minutes....
Dude! What the hell! You sat an spoke only of the handle for 15 freakin mins.Anyone who finds this vid is for the steel not the dam plastic handle!
Everyone talks about the steels and blade. That Rob actually cares and will talk about the other 50% of the knife is very helpful to anyone who actually wants to use their knives.