The Paramilitary 2 is simply a benchmark knife . . . it is used by independent reviewers and retailers for comparative purposes to virtually ever other folding knife on the market.
It certainly is hard to top the old PM2. It amazes me how they manage to get those compression locks perfect ever single time. I've never seen any Paramilitary not lock up rock solid and close and open smooth as butter. My all time favorite, but I wish they didn't cost what they do now.
Obviously Spyderco executives will view this video. So considering the thumbnail I am taking this as another opportunity to say to them reissue the “Slysz Bowie”. And while you’re at it issue a mini version. Thanks MC👍🏻
I carried the Para 3 exclusively for over three years and never felt like I needed to replace it. Only my knifelust caused me to switch up my EDC a little.
I LOVE my spyderco’s. Only started collecting knives 3 months ago and I’ve got a Sage 5 (my first knife 😍) and a Manix 2! I loved the way they looked from the moment I saw them. To me they look natural and organic, like leaves. They look like they’re grown instead of created. They’re beautiful. And they fit in the hand so good. Love them ❤️ The compression lock took some time to get used to, my index finger hated me for a week or so. But now it’s the most natural I own, although I do love the bearing lock as well. Next on my list is the Smock (with aftermarket scales).
Tenacious is actually really good too, i keep grabbing for that one often… looks good and works well if you tune it up after you get it from factory. Usually the pivot is a little tight.. unscrew, oil, loctite back after adjustment. 👍🏻
Yep, my top 5 is exactly what you mentioned here. I need a Bowie, but I will never buy one for those inflated prices on eBay. Thought about it many times, but there are so many great or even better knives I could buy for those absurdly dumb secondary prices. Let’s go Spyderco! Reissue. Reissue. Reissue. It’s time to kick the ball back to your consumer base.
I really enjoy my PM2 Tanto!! It has all the benefits of a regular pm2 with the durability and strength of a tanto blade!! I also enjoy my para 3 lightweight, perfect edc knife in my opinion!
Love my manix-2s. Superb tactical knives that are equally competent as a heavy duty work knife and EDC. I have S30V, S110V and M4 models and love them all. Also love my Gayle Bradley 1. The ergonomics seem a little odd until you start carving a piece of wood and then every curve, every bulge and every angle becomes an integral part of one hell of a wood processing machine. And the hollow ground M4 blade gets nice and thin behind the edge. What's not to love? The same could be said for the Nilakka. Such an elegant, graceful yet simple and minimalistic knife. It's stunningly beautiful and works extremely well as a bushcrafting knife and an EDC. Plus it just looks and feels....special. And the Schemp TUFF is another classic that doesn't get enough love. It's goofy, quirky and odd and I love it for that. The thing will hack and chop through an oak tree if need be and the 3V blade steel is just awesome! I thought it was the ugliest thing I'd ever seen when it first came out but it grew on me and I'm glad it did. It EDCs quite well and it always gets alot of attention anytime I pull it out. Everyone wants the thing! Nope. I'll be keeping it!
I pretty much sleep with my spydiechef most nights so i disagree, but fair, your point is extremely valid. In fact; i think your spirited disappointment in the chef as something that doesn't fit your desires actually stokes the flames of my argument that it is a knife with a specific vision, and if you're not on board with that vision, that is A-OK. Rather have something with a statement to make rather than a product that has nothing to say at all, right?
For years the PM2 was my favorite Spyderco, even over their top titanium framelocks. I’ve owned Spyderco knives since 93. As of today I’d say the Native 5.
I had to get one of these as well, they are great slicers. Mine is a semi serrated stonewashed blade with olive drab handles, so way cheaper than yours, but a good looking, compact, built-for-edc knife.
Me-too Scott h. I love my manix 2. Bohler M390 brown g10 scales, black DLC blade. I think I'm gonna get another one. Not sure if I'm gonna go for the cru-wear or the m4.
The designer of the Kapara (Alistair Phillips) has a RUclips video in which he shows you how to add a sharpening choil and offers a bright red backspacer to replace the one it comes with. These mods make it much more like his original “Redback” knife. I love it.
I feel the same way, you do, about the appearance of most Spyderco Folders. But, like you said, they work very well as EDC Folders. In my opinion, Spyderco, like Demko Folders, are all about function and performance. My personal favorite Spyderco, that I've tried, is the Spyderco Manix 2 XL; it's one of my all-time favorite Folders. Very good Video, Bro. :-) Peace, Stiletto :-)
My favorite spyerco of all time is my spyderfly balisong... Aluminum handles, vg10 steel, smooth hardware, sick spearpoint design, spring loaded lock bar, ultimate fidget factor. Currently edc a yojimbo2 and a yojumbo. I like Janich. For some reason, I really like the Canis right now, but it is on the expensive side for the "normal" version. For a knife you can depend on for years, Spyderco is a great bang for the buck choice in my opinion.
I bought one when they came out. It was the cool factor. I got decent with it but got tired of cutting my fingers. I still have it. It still has that cool factor.
I bought my first Paramilitary 2 about ten years ago. Since that time I've sunk hundreds if not thousands of dollars into all kinds of Benchmade and other Spyderco knives, but I always come back to that PM2. IDK, it's just like that old pair of shoes that wear like none other. For me, the PM2 only keeps getting better as steels constantly improve. I've got four of them now in various colors and steels, but any one of them is my all time favorite if I just happen to be carrying it that day.
Spyderco alcyone. Love the unique g10 and it fits perfectly in my hand. I prefer liner locks over back locks too just because its easier to disengage. Also really like bd1 and prefer it over the vg10 on the delica. It doesnt stand up the 100+ spydercos ofc but its so underrated
I was extremely impressed with the spyderco Ikuchi once I was able to handle one. I had seen pictures and it honestly never even made it on my radar until I went to a store and held one. I bought one immediately and it's my girls favorite knife to steel from my collection. She loves the way the "flipper" mechanism works and how slim it is.
I am a Spyderco fan. The only thing keeping me from picking up a Delica is the absence of a front finger choil! Even the Dragonfly 2 has a front finger choil.
Love your lists. I carry some of these and love them. I have a Kapara which is illegal to carry where I live. It is beautiful and I take it out to admire it every so often. Also, the Spydiechef should be in your bar for slicing limes! Then you might like it better.
Honestly I like it too. I just couldn't bring myself to include another one no one can get. I enjoyed the knives on the list ever so slightly more. That's honestly the only reason it isn't up there.
I always thought spyderco fugly looking, then I got a para 3 to see what all the fuss was about. And yeh the may look strange but the ergonomics feels spot on, and have grown to love that thumb hole, very fidget friendly to. Can also see the appeal of all the customisation options
I'm waiting on my pm2 to come in the mail rn. I needed to see this and cannot wait for it to come in as I've never spent this much money on a knife before.
I know it would be alot but, I’d love to see an entire Spyderco collection video. My favorite out of those would be the PM3 and Chaparrel. Just got a Spyopera… hands down the best action out of lock back knives.
The lower priced Spyderco knives are really good also for example the Amsbitious is a great knife for it's smaller size. The Spyderco Tenacious is a good knife especially serrated which I prefer. The Spyderco Centrofante was an investment I did because I bought an older model as an investment.
So I just ordered the BHQ Shaman in DLC and green micarta. I’m now afraid that I will be your antithesis. I absolutely love my Spydiechef. Will I hate the Shaman. I want and anticipate it’s greatness!!! I admit I would like to alter the chef and add space to flick it a bit more consistently, but now I’m hyper concerned with the nub hitting me on the Shaman when closing. Such problems to be had. BTW, the hole on the stitch has an exceptionally useful function…
I get that one needs to compliment a lot of knifes as a reviewer as to not get all the hate and all. But lets just agree that if you have the space in the pocket you want a Manix 2 and if you don't you get a Native 5.. And that's all I have to say about that as Forrest Gump would say.
Left-handers don't like the compression lock. We do exist! Spydercos are generally overpriced and sprint runs are for squeezing the lemons out there. But they are excellent knives and my favourite knife is a Spyderco; the Chaparral. It's a EDC design classic which is perfect for most tasks. It's not an oversized, flipper, play, fidget, quick fire toy. But it goes in and out of the pocket easily and opens and closes smoothly. The frn cheaper version is fine and is actually a good bargain. The steel is superior and it slices like a dream. It weighs nothing. So, lads and lassies, don't go into the overbuilt/steel snobbery dead ends and get a knife you can use anywhere. (Mind you, I do love the Manix 2 lightweight S110v too, but only when I've hard work to do.)
Super true about spiderco. Have a bugout, got a pm2, thought it was weird but carrying for a week, went back to the bugout... And was surprised to to find I was wishing I had the pm2 on me!
I have found only one Spiderco worth buying. In the early 1980's I purchased a police version with black g-10 scales from Seka city Japan New in box for $50. So far it's the only one they have made I spent money on. Now my edc folders are Benchmade, Cold Steel, & Kershaw. Half the price and all will cut. I am very frugal & only order best price. My Infidel otf cost $120, Kershaw launch autos about $110, and recon 1 for $100. Bought a new Buck 119 for $48 a new Espada xl for $142 also their drop forged bowie was $72. Also rotate a SOCP and Boker Kalashnikov xl ordered both new for $150. The full size military is only other Spiderco that would be usable but it's high cost of $260 isn't doable. The cold steel recon 1 is best pound for pound folder I know of with 4" blade triad lock and built heavy duty. Use to always carry an original Buck 110 folder from 1970.
Michael Janich, the designer of the yojimbo pronounces it "Yo-Jim-Bo" NOT "Yo-Him-Bo" so regardless of whether it means bodyguard in Japanese and that's what it is a reference to, I will not be pronouncing it that way.
I'm with you I think that Spyderco is at the top of the list when it comes to production knives at a price point that's pretty reasonable there is something for almost everyone it's the company that I have around 20 because of the different variants of designs and blade steels draws me to there knives. Hope for a wonderful new year to you and yours and as always great vid.
KEJ, that's a pretty ridiculous assumption. There are enough years in a quarter lifetime for use that yields valuable experience even in a collection consisting of 100+ knives. If I were you, I'd recalibrate your thought process.
@@kejadventures241 you have miss read my statement I said there on the top of the list and I have different variants of steels in the same design so I know how well a particular design works for me there just in different blade steels I just happen to be in a better position than most in acquiring knives that I like. I do have alot of knives and for me it's the design that intrigues me the maker the thought that goes behind a design you would have to look at it from a different perspective I guess to understand for some it can be a work of art were others might just see a peice of steel. Hey that's why we are all different and enjoy different things. Well hope that clarifies a bit have a good one.
I'm just one example of a person who completely shatters your idea of a typical collector. I collect knives. Ive got $40 users and $600 users. Ive also got safe queens. There are too many variables for you to effectively sort us all out. Sorry, but your perspective is foggy and inaccurate.
I really love the Tenacious, I’m excited for the S35VN version. My absolute favorite Spyderco didn’t make it on the list though...Native 5. I really dig that knife!
I carried a PM2 for quite a while. Christmas 2019 I got a Shaman and a Kapara. I absolutely fell head over heals for the Shaman and have carried it almost every day. Recently I decided to carry some other Spydercos but tomorrow I’m going back to the Shaman. I have a Smock and a Spydie Chef incoming so we’ll see. I’m going to start buy the rest of the compression lock knives. I really like that system.
I only own a PM2, Para3, and the Sage5 in carbon fiber. The Sage5 CF is hands down my favorite of the 3. I like buying different brands, so a new Spyderco is a long ways away, but the Domino intrigues me as well.
I just noticed today on bento boxshop.com that they’ve got blue dominoes. It says you can order as many as you want. To me that means they’ve got more than just a few.👍🏻
I own a bunch of these and will second the shaman. At this point, the shaman has moved from my “never sell” list to the “from my cold dead fingers” list. Are there more ergonomic knives out there? Maybe...I dunno...but I don’t own one. One that I’ll add (I don’t think it was here) is the sage 5 lw. What an amazing knife that is. Perfect fit and finish, leaf shaped blade, lightweight, s30v, sturdy and reasonably priced. If someone wants to know what Spyderco is all about for around $100ish, the sage 5 lw is where it’s at.
Ive become pretty fond of my Spyderco Chaparrel, I find myself using it quite a lot and that XHP is heat treated to perfection. The knives on this list are good I own a lot of them.
I like a slender carry and fidget factor. So of course my Smock and Kapara are two of my favorites. I know I’d like the Shaman, but it just looks like it would carry so wide I’ve never bothered to pick one up.. My knife has to share my front pocket with my iPhone 12 mini so narrow is actually pretty critical.
The Yojimbo 2 has way too thin of a tip. I chipped the tip on two of them doing minor things. I’m 6’4 270lbs but love small knives. I agree, the Delica even in FRN and VG10 is a great knife. I’m in the city and don’t get to use my knives as much as I’d like but still do. It seems like 90% of knife guys play with their knives and take pics. VG10 is good enough for almost anyone. The discoed Sage 1 was by far the best Sage. Spyderco does liner locks right and that’s one of the few production knives where everyone was perfect. It’s hard to describe but you can feel the quality in the Sage 1.. The Chapparel is a great knife too, wicked slicer. Also, the Dragonfly 2 is awesome and still has no real competition. I’ve made 100 plus cardboard cuts using a VG10 DF2 many times. I have the Sprint S30V, ZDP189, G10 etc but love the regular FRN VG10 models. They disappears in pocket but can do some serious cutting with the thin, sharp blade.
I am puzzled why you say you "hated" the look of the PM 1 at the beginning of this list. Actually, Spydercos all look quite more alike rather than different. I wish Spyderco would get a bit more aesthetically creative. They do make excellent knives, though. Good review!
Always wondered why the PM2 is more expensive than the Manix 2, (standard G-10, and S30V steel). They are comparable in size, and you could easily argue that the Manix 2 is more difficult to produce and assemble. Guess the answer is, (and it always is), "Supply and Demand". They are more expensive because they can sell them for more!
I've used my spider co yombo in a war during the battle for the outer colonies. . I was a part of the colonial marine task force. We were usually deployed from drop shops off of the mother ship after hibernation. Most of the time, we went on what I'd call "bug hints". Just to investigate citings of possible extraterrestrial creatures that turned out to be nothing. But one time we encountered a true xenomprph. That was the day we bought old for our lives. Sitting our pulse rifles to twenty watt and forty watt range
I wish Spyderco would release the Shaman in the blurple/s110v configuration. I think they don’t bc the price would be too high for a production knife out of the Golden factory, but damn I want it.
Reply to Metal Complex: Appreciate your reply. I’ve been watching knife reviews on RUclips for many years. I like your channel and reviews. It is okay if I dislike RUclips videos showing only pictures of knives and express that opinion isn’t it? What I appreciate is your personal experience and opinion. I commented only because I like your usual hands on reviews where you can describe the function, ergonomics, weight, edge profile, etc. I can view catalogs such as Spyderco and look at pictures drawing my own opinion. Personally I dislike wanting a discontinued product as the secondary market often has such inflated prices. Thanks again for your reply.
I upload 14 times a week. Literally, 14 uploads. One or two might contain pictures. The other 12-13 are hands on, physical knife reviews. I think you've got plenty to watch if you dont like the screen recorded stuff. It's always going to be a small part of my weekly content because despite having hundreds and hundreds of knives physically pass through my hands, I don't have access to every single knife in existence at any given time. No one does. But that won't stop me from making content in reference to models I dont physically have in my possession. Its just something you'll have to deal with or ignore completely in the future. Sorry. That's how it's going to be. Edit* - I ONLY insert images of knives I HAVE already physically reviewed on the channel. If I reference a model I dont physically have in that moment, you can bet there's a full physical review of it on my channel that has every last bit of the information you're seeking. In my opinion, the image references are 100% justified as long as I've already reviewed the knife / knives. My point is, it's kind of an empty complaint. Just make the minimum effort and find my review of the knife in reference if you want the information on it.
It's funny how we all are different... The para 3 is one of my last favorite knives..I own one, I do carry it from time to time.. I've just never been in love with it... Even have a light weight.. Really hate it lol
Great vid. The native 5 should have been on here considering it's very similar to the shaman. But if frn isn't your thing, not featuring it makes sense.
I think the "odd looks" are a thing we all had to get past. When your random citizen thinks "knife", these profiles are NOT what jump into your head. They certainly make it work, though.
Knifejoy has Manix 2 in Maxamet now along with Native 5 and Sage 1. Just put in my order for the Manix, this will be my first Maxamet knife. I'm excited to see how it performs.
I have a Yojimbo. It is an excellent & very expensive razor knife, that looks ks dangerous & is best suited for breaking down cardboard boxes & not much else. Anything tougher will chip the extremely fine edge. For self defense Cold Stell offers the 4“+ Talwar, 4" Spartan (best self defense Grip in a folder) & the 4"+ Vaquero. None of which are preferable to Running Away while screaming like a girl
I own the manix 2 in m390 and its my favorite knife period, but ive also never handled a hinderer. But in MY OPINION the manix2 is the best spyderco made.
Just re-watched this video for some reason. I literally spit out my coffee when you called the Manix 2 a "gimping festival". Don't know how I missed that the first time.
Great list. I think you don't like FRN but the Chaparral is super thin and lightweight xhp steel I think. I also like the Mannix 2 with FRN and Maxanet. Spidey Chef is a great tool, not a fan of the tip.
i have a manix 2 and youre right on with the thoughts on it... it also carries quite wide... I also changed the clip to a mxg gear clip .... woo that factory clip doesnt work on that knife... I recently got the para 3 lightweight . I love how light it is can it is super comfortable
Thanks for watching! My Patreon - www.patreon.com/metalcomplex
The Paramilitary 2 is simply a benchmark knife . . . it is used by independent reviewers and retailers for comparative purposes to virtually ever other folding knife on the market.
It certainly is hard to top the old PM2. It amazes me how they manage to get those compression locks perfect ever single time. I've never seen any Paramilitary not lock up rock solid and close and open smooth as butter. My all time favorite, but I wish they didn't cost what they do now.
Obviously Spyderco executives will view this video. So considering the thumbnail I am taking this as another opportunity to say to them reissue the “Slysz Bowie”. And while you’re at it issue a mini version. Thanks MC👍🏻
100%. We NEED that thing back. (Good eye 😉)
I could not AGREE more! YES spyderco! please bring back the Slysz Bowie!
At this point, If they did that would be great. its gonna be 500 bucks, no doubt but people will buy it.
@@Tom_H327 it's true, it would probably be at secondary market prices 😂.
This should be a slam dunk to bring back into production... and in something superior to CTS-XHP... like Magnacut.
I carried the Para 3 exclusively for over three years and never felt like I needed to replace it. Only my knifelust caused me to switch up my EDC a little.
The lust is real brother.
I LOVE my spyderco’s. Only started collecting knives 3 months ago and I’ve got a Sage 5 (my first knife 😍) and a Manix 2! I loved the way they looked from the moment I saw them. To me they look natural and organic, like leaves. They look like they’re grown instead of created. They’re beautiful. And they fit in the hand so good. Love them ❤️
The compression lock took some time to get used to, my index finger hated me for a week or so. But now it’s the most natural I own, although I do love the bearing lock as well. Next on my list is the Smock (with aftermarket scales).
Tenacious is actually really good too, i keep grabbing for that one often… looks good and works well if you tune it up after you get it from factory. Usually the pivot is a little tight.. unscrew, oil, loctite back after adjustment. 👍🏻
Yep, my top 5 is exactly what you mentioned here. I need a Bowie, but I will never buy one for those inflated prices on eBay. Thought about it many times, but there are so many great or even better knives I could buy for those absurdly dumb secondary prices. Let’s go Spyderco! Reissue. Reissue. Reissue. It’s time to kick the ball back to your consumer base.
I really enjoy my PM2 Tanto!! It has all the benefits of a regular pm2 with the durability and strength of a tanto blade!! I also enjoy my para 3 lightweight, perfect edc knife in my opinion!
Great Choices! I would add to this list the Caribbean as well - long blade, great steel and impervious to the elements!
To me the Caribbean just looks like a better tenacious
Agreed. Love my caribbean. Mine has the yellow part of the scales dyed green and looks awesome.
Love my manix-2s. Superb tactical knives that are equally competent as a heavy duty work knife and EDC.
I have S30V, S110V and M4 models and love them all.
Also love my Gayle Bradley 1. The ergonomics seem a little odd until you start carving a piece of wood and then every curve, every bulge and every angle becomes an integral part of one hell of a wood processing machine. And the hollow ground M4 blade gets nice and thin behind the edge. What's not to love?
The same could be said for the Nilakka. Such an elegant, graceful yet simple and minimalistic knife. It's stunningly beautiful and works extremely well as a bushcrafting knife and an EDC. Plus it just looks and feels....special.
And the Schemp TUFF is another classic that doesn't get enough love. It's goofy, quirky and odd and I love it for that. The thing will hack and chop through an oak tree if need be and the 3V blade steel is just awesome! I thought it was the ugliest thing I'd ever seen when it first came out but it grew on me and I'm glad it did. It EDCs quite well and it always gets alot of attention anytime I pull it out. Everyone wants the thing! Nope. I'll be keeping it!
I pretty much sleep with my spydiechef most nights so i disagree, but fair, your point is extremely valid. In fact; i think your spirited disappointment in the chef as something that doesn't fit your desires actually stokes the flames of my argument that it is a knife with a specific vision, and if you're not on board with that vision, that is A-OK. Rather have something with a statement to make rather than a product that has nothing to say at all, right?
For years the PM2 was my favorite Spyderco, even over their top titanium framelocks. I’ve owned Spyderco knives since 93. As of today I’d say the Native 5.
I had a native 5 great knive. Stoling from my truck while being service
My edc right now is a Kershaw leek damascus..absolutely love it
I had to get one of these as well, they are great slicers. Mine is a semi serrated stonewashed blade with olive drab handles, so way cheaper than yours, but a good looking, compact, built-for-edc knife.
Good for you
A very good list! The Manix 2 is still my favorite.
Me-too Scott h. I love my manix 2. Bohler M390 brown g10 scales, black DLC blade. I think I'm gonna get another one. Not sure if I'm gonna go for the cru-wear or the m4.
Dude you are the best knife channel on RUclips! I get a blast out of your videos. Thanks for all the time you put into this. 😀👊
The designer of the Kapara (Alistair Phillips) has a RUclips video in which he shows you how to add a sharpening choil and offers a bright red backspacer to replace the one it comes with. These mods make it much more like his original “Redback” knife. I love it.
Nobody seems to love the Positron like me, but its the perfect knife for my needs . . . its been a constant companion for YEARS now.
Kapara is probably my favorite spyderco. I have one of the first ones and the action on it is great!!! And love that carbon fiber!!
Great choices. Love my shaman, after I changed the scales, and my para 3 was my first foray into knives over $50
I feel the same way, you do, about the appearance of most Spyderco Folders. But, like you said, they work very well as EDC Folders. In my opinion, Spyderco, like Demko Folders, are all about function and performance. My personal favorite Spyderco, that I've tried, is the Spyderco Manix 2 XL; it's one of my all-time favorite Folders. Very good Video, Bro. :-) Peace, Stiletto :-)
My favorite spyerco of all time is my spyderfly balisong... Aluminum handles, vg10 steel, smooth hardware, sick spearpoint design, spring loaded lock bar, ultimate fidget factor.
Currently edc a yojimbo2 and a yojumbo. I like Janich.
For some reason, I really like the Canis right now, but it is on the expensive side for the "normal" version.
For a knife you can depend on for years, Spyderco is a great bang for the buck choice in my opinion.
I bought one when they came out. It was the cool factor. I got decent with it but got tired of cutting my fingers. I still have it. It still has that cool factor.
I bought my first Paramilitary 2 about ten years ago. Since that time I've sunk hundreds if not thousands of dollars into all kinds of Benchmade and other Spyderco knives, but I always come back to that PM2. IDK, it's just like that old pair of shoes that wear like none other. For me, the PM2 only keeps getting better as steels constantly improve. I've got four of them now in various colors and steels, but any one of them is my all time favorite if I just happen to be carrying it that day.
Spyderco alcyone. Love the unique g10 and it fits perfectly in my hand. I prefer liner locks over back locks too just because its easier to disengage. Also really like bd1 and prefer it over the vg10 on the delica. It doesnt stand up the 100+ spydercos ofc but its so underrated
My first Spyderco was the "Economy" ... My first one-hand opening knife and first with a pocket clip.... Genius!
The Smock is 100% what got me interested in spyderco. It's the only one that doesn't look like it's sold at a gas station
I was extremely impressed with the spyderco Ikuchi once I was able to handle one. I had seen pictures and it honestly never even made it on my radar until I went to a store and held one. I bought one immediately and it's my girls favorite knife to steel from my collection. She loves the way the "flipper" mechanism works and how slim it is.
I am a Spyderco fan. The only thing keeping me from picking up a Delica is the absence of a front finger choil! Even the Dragonfly 2 has a front finger choil.
Love your lists. I carry some of these and love them. I have a Kapara which is illegal to carry where I live. It is beautiful and I take it out to admire it every so often.
Also, the Spydiechef should be in your bar for slicing limes! Then you might like it better.
Can’t believe the Nirvana didn’t make the list! Rassenti is one of my all time favorite designers.
Honestly I like it too. I just couldn't bring myself to include another one no one can get. I enjoyed the knives on the list ever so slightly more. That's honestly the only reason it isn't up there.
I love Spyderco’s...thanks for the overall review.
I always thought spyderco fugly looking, then I got a para 3 to see what all the fuss was about. And yeh the may look strange but the ergonomics feels spot on, and have grown to love that thumb hole, very fidget friendly to.
Can also see the appeal of all the customisation options
I'm waiting on my pm2 to come in the mail rn. I needed to see this and cannot wait for it to come in as I've never spent this much money on a knife before.
I know it would be alot but, I’d love to see an entire Spyderco collection video. My favorite out of those would be the PM3 and Chaparrel. Just got a Spyopera… hands down the best action out of lock back knives.
The lower priced Spyderco knives are really good also for example the Amsbitious is a great knife for it's smaller size. The Spyderco Tenacious is a good knife especially serrated which I prefer. The Spyderco Centrofante was an investment I did because I bought an older model as an investment.
So I just ordered the BHQ Shaman in DLC and green micarta. I’m now afraid that I will be your antithesis. I absolutely love my Spydiechef. Will I hate the Shaman. I want and anticipate it’s greatness!!! I admit I would like to alter the chef and add space to flick it a bit more consistently, but now I’m hyper concerned with the nub hitting me on the Shaman when closing. Such problems to be had. BTW, the hole on the stitch has an exceptionally useful function…
The original Sage 5 is a great edc and I've considered adding the GB2 as well.
Gb2 is out of discontinued status and back in production and readily available again. Just so you know.
I get that one needs to compliment a lot of knifes as a reviewer as to not get all the hate and all. But lets just agree that if you have the space in the pocket you want a Manix 2 and if you don't you get a Native 5.. And that's all I have to say about that as Forrest Gump would say.
My fav Spyderco to carry is my native 5 in carbon fiber scales.
I own a sprint run Para 3 with brown g-10 scales and S35VN steel. I’ve carried it a lot. It’s buttery smooth.
Left-handers don't like the compression lock. We do exist! Spydercos are generally overpriced and sprint runs are for squeezing the lemons out there.
But they are excellent knives and my favourite knife is a Spyderco; the Chaparral. It's a EDC design classic which is perfect for most tasks. It's not an oversized, flipper, play, fidget, quick fire toy. But it goes in and out of the pocket easily and opens and closes smoothly. The frn cheaper version is fine and is actually a good bargain. The steel is superior and it slices like a dream. It weighs nothing. So, lads and lassies, don't go into the overbuilt/steel snobbery dead ends and get a knife you can use anywhere.
(Mind you, I do love the Manix 2 lightweight S110v too, but only when I've hard work to do.)
Super true about spiderco. Have a bugout, got a pm2, thought it was weird but carrying for a week, went back to the bugout... And was surprised to to find I was wishing I had the pm2 on me!
I have found only one Spiderco worth buying. In the early 1980's I purchased a police version with black g-10 scales from Seka city Japan New in box for $50. So far it's the only one they have made I spent money on. Now my edc folders are Benchmade, Cold Steel, & Kershaw. Half the price and all will cut. I am very frugal & only order best price. My Infidel otf cost $120, Kershaw launch autos about $110, and recon 1 for $100. Bought a new Buck 119 for $48 a new Espada xl for $142 also their drop forged bowie was $72. Also rotate a SOCP and Boker Kalashnikov xl ordered both new for $150. The full size military is only other Spiderco that would be usable but it's high cost of $260 isn't doable. The cold steel recon 1 is best pound for pound folder I know of with 4" blade triad lock and built heavy duty. Use to always carry an original Buck 110 folder from 1970.
Michael Janich, the designer of the yojimbo pronounces it "Yo-Jim-Bo" NOT "Yo-Him-Bo" so regardless of whether it means bodyguard in Japanese and that's what it is a reference to, I will not be pronouncing it that way.
“Moving on to Spyderco Smock - this one looks a little less weird “ You mean like less weird than a platypus? 😅
Hahaha
It's sexy as fuck
I'm buying a smock today I like that one
I'm with you I think that Spyderco is at the top of the list when it comes to production knives at a price point that's pretty reasonable there is something for almost everyone it's the company that I have around 20 because of the different variants of designs and blade steels draws me to there knives. Hope for a wonderful new year to you and yours and as always great vid.
KEJ, that's a pretty ridiculous assumption. There are enough years in a quarter lifetime for use that yields valuable experience even in a collection consisting of 100+ knives. If I were you, I'd recalibrate your thought process.
@@kejadventures241 you have miss read my statement I said there on the top of the list and I have different variants of steels in the same design so I know how well a particular design works for me there just in different blade steels I just happen to be in a better position than most in acquiring knives that I like. I do have alot of knives and for me it's the design that intrigues me the maker the thought that goes behind a design you would have to look at it from a different perspective I guess to understand for some it can be a work of art were others might just see a peice of steel. Hey that's why we are all different and enjoy different things. Well hope that clarifies a bit have a good one.
I'm just one example of a person who completely shatters your idea of a typical collector. I collect knives. Ive got $40 users and $600 users. Ive also got safe queens. There are too many variables for you to effectively sort us all out. Sorry, but your perspective is foggy and inaccurate.
I really love the Tenacious, I’m excited for the S35VN version. My absolute favorite Spyderco didn’t make it on the list though...Native 5. I really dig that knife!
I carried a PM2 for quite a while. Christmas 2019 I got a Shaman and a Kapara. I absolutely fell head over heals for the Shaman and have carried it almost every day. Recently I decided to carry some other Spydercos but tomorrow I’m going back to the Shaman. I have a Smock and a Spydie Chef incoming so we’ll see. I’m going to start buy the rest of the compression lock knives. I really like that system.
I only own a PM2, Para3, and the Sage5 in carbon fiber. The Sage5 CF is hands down my favorite of the 3. I like buying different brands, so a new Spyderco is a long ways away, but the Domino intrigues me as well.
I just noticed today on bento boxshop.com that they’ve got blue dominoes. It says you can order as many as you want.
To me that means they’ve got more than just a few.👍🏻
I own a bunch of these and will second the shaman. At this point, the shaman has moved from my “never sell” list to the “from my cold dead fingers” list. Are there more ergonomic knives out there? Maybe...I dunno...but I don’t own one. One that I’ll add (I don’t think it was here) is the sage 5 lw. What an amazing knife that is. Perfect fit and finish, leaf shaped blade, lightweight, s30v, sturdy and reasonably priced. If someone wants to know what Spyderco is all about for around $100ish, the sage 5 lw is where it’s at.
Great picks ! The Shaman is my favorite too.
Ive become pretty fond of my Spyderco Chaparrel, I find myself using it quite a lot and that XHP is heat treated to perfection. The knives on this list are good I own a lot of them.
I like a slender carry and fidget factor. So of course my Smock and Kapara are two of my favorites.
I know I’d like the Shaman, but it just looks like it would carry so wide I’ve never bothered to pick one up.. My knife has to share my front pocket with my iPhone 12 mini so narrow is actually pretty critical.
The Yojimbo 2 has way too thin of a tip.
I chipped the tip on two of them doing minor things. I’m 6’4 270lbs but love small knives. I agree, the Delica even in FRN and VG10 is a great knife. I’m in the city and don’t get to use my knives as much as I’d like but still do. It seems like 90% of knife guys play with their knives and take pics. VG10 is good enough for almost anyone. The discoed Sage 1 was by far the best Sage. Spyderco does liner locks right and that’s one of the few production knives where everyone was perfect. It’s hard to describe but you can feel the quality in the Sage 1..
The Chapparel is a great knife too, wicked slicer. Also, the Dragonfly 2 is awesome and still has no real competition. I’ve made 100 plus cardboard cuts using a VG10 DF2 many times. I have the Sprint S30V, ZDP189, G10 etc but love the regular FRN VG10 models. They disappears in pocket but can do some serious cutting with the thin, sharp blade.
I love spydercos their continued use of aged steel choices. the canis became available again still in s30v.
do pm2s usually come with backspacers when you buy them fresh off the press? mine didn't when it arrived from spyderco
You said it really fast… What is the clip from that your using on n your Para 3? Thanks!
What is your take on the Valotton? My grail knife.
Is CTS BD1 A good steel. Will it stay sharp long.
Im going Para 3 , Spydiechef , Manix 2 , Delica , and sleeper of the bunch , the PITS.
I am puzzled why you say you "hated" the look of the PM 1 at the beginning of this list. Actually, Spydercos all look quite more alike rather than different. I wish Spyderco would get a bit more aesthetically creative. They do make excellent knives, though. Good review!
I'm a big fan of Para 3, then I have to go with the sage native 5, and the lil native is part of my edc rotation.
The smock scales may be laminate but it is a true layering not that peel ply stuff.
My favourite and ALL TIME Favourite is the Shaman.
Always wondered why the PM2 is more expensive than the Manix 2, (standard G-10, and S30V steel). They are comparable in size, and you could easily argue that the Manix 2 is more difficult to produce and assemble.
Guess the answer is, (and it always is), "Supply and Demand". They are more expensive because they can sell them for more!
Ya honestly thats thats the only reason I can come up with as well
Took me about a day to figure out the liner lock on the GB2, it's complete and total BadAssery, the action feels like it's on glass.
I've used my spider co yombo in a war during the battle for the outer colonies. . I was a part of the colonial marine task force. We were usually deployed from drop shops off of the mother ship after hibernation. Most of the time, we went on what I'd call "bug hints". Just to investigate citings of possible extraterrestrial creatures that turned out to be nothing. But one time we encountered a true xenomprph. That was the day we bought old for our lives. Sitting our pulse rifles to twenty watt and forty watt range
Great list. Only knife I would have added was the Chaparral. Best slicer out there IMO.
I wish Spyderco would release the Shaman in the blurple/s110v configuration. I think they don’t bc the price would be too high for a production knife out of the Golden factory, but damn I want it.
Thanks awesome video, well I've tried the tenacious wanted a shaman, settled for a manix still keeping eye out for a.shaman though.
Reply to Metal Complex: Appreciate your reply. I’ve been watching knife reviews on RUclips for many years. I like your channel and reviews. It is okay if I dislike RUclips videos showing only pictures of knives and express that opinion isn’t it? What I appreciate is your personal experience and opinion. I commented only because I like your usual hands on reviews where you can describe the function, ergonomics, weight, edge profile, etc. I can view catalogs such as Spyderco and look at pictures drawing my own opinion. Personally I dislike wanting a discontinued product as the secondary market often has such inflated prices. Thanks again for your reply.
I upload 14 times a week. Literally, 14 uploads. One or two might contain pictures. The other 12-13 are hands on, physical knife reviews. I think you've got plenty to watch if you dont like the screen recorded stuff. It's always going to be a small part of my weekly content because despite having hundreds and hundreds of knives physically pass through my hands, I don't have access to every single knife in existence at any given time. No one does. But that won't stop me from making content in reference to models I dont physically have in my possession. Its just something you'll have to deal with or ignore completely in the future. Sorry. That's how it's going to be.
Edit* - I ONLY insert images of knives I HAVE already physically reviewed on the channel. If I reference a model I dont physically have in that moment, you can bet there's a full physical review of it on my channel that has every last bit of the information you're seeking. In my opinion, the image references are 100% justified as long as I've already reviewed the knife / knives. My point is, it's kind of an empty complaint. Just make the minimum effort and find my review of the knife in reference if you want the information on it.
I honestly really like the looks of Spyderco knives!
ALL Shamans and I mean ALL of them regardless of the version have a slight vertical play.
Try and see.
All great blades but the best Spyderco is the Para 3😉
The blade grind on the Southard blows all of these away. Handle.... Notta So much. Not bad just not amazing.
I don't have any experience with the bowie, but I would have the kapara, the pm2, shaman, spydie chef, and the smock.
It's funny how we all are different... The para 3 is one of my last favorite knives..I own one, I do carry it from time to time.. I've just never been in love with it... Even have a light weight.. Really hate it lol
Great vid. The native 5 should have been on here considering it's very similar to the shaman. But if frn isn't your thing, not featuring it makes sense.
Spydiechef shoulda made the list. Get rid of the Kapara, insert Spydiechef and you have the perfect list.
No Dragonfly?
Why is the Delica sure exactly looking like paramilitary 2?
Of your top 5 knives, only 1 makes my list . . . the Para 3.
That Manix 2 is fire I love my 4
I think the "odd looks" are a thing we all had to get past. When your random citizen thinks "knife", these profiles are NOT what jump into your head. They certainly make it work, though.
pm2and3,manix series,endura series,(delica and police four incl)military.honorable mention-ikuchi
Knifejoy has Manix 2 in Maxamet now along with Native 5 and Sage 1. Just put in my order for the Manix, this will be my first Maxamet knife. I'm excited to see how it performs.
I have a Yojimbo. It is an excellent & very expensive razor knife, that looks ks dangerous & is best suited for breaking down cardboard boxes & not much else. Anything tougher will chip the extremely fine edge.
For self defense Cold Stell offers the 4“+ Talwar, 4" Spartan (best self defense Grip in a folder) & the 4"+ Vaquero. None of which are preferable to Running Away while screaming like a girl
My 1st Spyderco was a manix2 and my 2nd was the para3
Nice list of Spyderco’s ! Missing one great honorable mention, the Drunken!
I own the manix 2 in m390 and its my favorite knife period, but ive also never handled a hinderer. But in MY OPINION the manix2 is the best spyderco made.
From the first time i picked up my para3 just felt perfect in my hand
So how do I make sure the spyderco I buy is made in America? Awesome video as always
It will say on the retailer site. It also says on the blade
@@metal_complex ok thank you. And yeah I try
And look, but it seems it’s on the clip side and the knife is always closed haha!!
Just re-watched this video for some reason. I literally spit out my coffee when you called the Manix 2 a "gimping festival". Don't know how I missed that the first time.
Endura (plain and waved), PM2, Manix, Manix 2, P'kal my personal favorites but there's a lot of good ones.
My two favorites are my edd schemp barong and my original police plain edge.
Great list. I think you don't like FRN but the Chaparral is super thin and lightweight xhp steel I think. I also like the Mannix 2 with FRN and Maxanet. Spidey Chef is a great tool, not a fan of the tip.
i have a manix 2 and youre right on with the thoughts on it... it also carries quite wide... I also changed the clip to a mxg gear clip .... woo that factory clip doesnt work on that knife... I recently got the para 3 lightweight . I love how light it is can it is super comfortable
Great spyderco reviews. You are right On, in my book
Canis is my favourite then pm2 then para 3 then yojimbo after that enduras and delicas and dragon fly H1
I really enjoy the push button aspect of the Spyderco Smock. I own the Smock with Titanium axxents.