Journalist Reporter Filmmaker Author Photograph Sharpener...
"And I feel like a knife, these days are calling
I feel like a knife, sharpened like steel
Touched by the hand of the gods on these golden mornings
I feel like a knife for you."
"KNIFE" Justin Sullivan 1991
Today’s review is a bit special. Every now and then, I like to invite other reviewers and true knife enthusiasts to share their perspective. This one comes from Guillaume Gx, moderator of the Spyderco Fan Club on Facebook — and a man who definitely knows his way around an edge. Also all photography featured in this review is the work of Guillaume Gx.
Let’s get straight to the point — much like its sibling, the Nand, the Cobol doesn’t carry a knifemaker’s DNA. This is not a blade born from the forge, but rather a stylistic exercise, a conceptual piece with a distinctly “Japan-inspired” design. And that’s where any comparison to the Ikuchi ends.
Mechanically, this slipjoint shares the same traits as the Nand: soft tension, little to no sense of security. A light press on the spine will start the blade folding, which instantly rules out anything beyond light, food-related tasks.
But perhaps that’s the idea. The dining table seems to be the natural battlefield for this miniature katana. Unfortunately, the sweeping arc drawn by the handle and blade demands contortionist wrist angles, while the tanto-style tip hardly helps when it comes to cleanly separating food. In this arena, the Ikuchi—or even the Nand, with its almost twice thinner blade—will fare gracefully where the Cobol clearly struggles to hide its discomfort.
Gone is the Nand’s M398 steel. The Cobol features an M390 blade—beautiful to admire, but challenging to sharpen. Guided systems will have trouble catching such a low-profile edge. Seasoned sharpeners will need to rely on freehand skill to bring out a proper cutting edge (the factory edge being nothing to brag about).
So, is reason telling us this is a flop? Not quite. Let’s remember that, like the Nand, the Cobol wasn’t crafted by a bladesmith but by designer Paul Alexander. This knife should be viewed as a concept piece, a non-knifemaker’s take on knife design, a genuine exercise in style.
You can’t help but salute the intent—and the audacity. Spyderco showed real boldness in releasing two designs that stand as true UFOs in the eight-legged universe.
And so, I look to the sky, hoping to see another one someday.
The SLIPIT™, is a group of American-designed folding knives developed by Spyderco. Originating from the UK Penknife (UKPK) project — the first folding knife to combine their one-hand-opening Trademark Round Hole™, clip carry, and a non-locking mechanism — and drawing inspiration from the Caly series, the group comprises the UKPK, Metropolitan, Urban, and Squeak models. All were designed by Sal Glesser.
The Blue Brother of my Slipit family is the UK Penknife (UKPK) Blue G10 CPM SPY 27 version AKA “The great slicer” or “The Golden Child” as it is made in Colorado when the others are made in Italy. My UKPK is the G10-handled version in CPM SPY27 steel. It features the thinnest blade (2.5 mm vs 3mm for the other members of the SlipIt family) and offers the best slicing performance, with a cutting edge measuring 75 mm. You can notice its this G10 version got 4 screws on the handle. (When Spyderco site is only showing 3 screws for their UKPK G10 SPY27 model) Edit: I got an answer from Golden about that: “The photo of the G10 model you see online is a photoshopped version of the lightweight model, which only has 3 screws. The 4 screw version is standard for the g10 variant.” The FRN UKPK got 3 screws and a short spring/backspacer. Perhaps easier to rinse and clean. Its Salt version even exist in yellow with CPM Magnacut and in green with LC200N and also with serrated edge.
On mine, its thin CPM SPY27 blade is particularly well-suited to maintenance by leather stropping, and this model is unique in the group for employing a fork spring, likely necessitated by the longer stainless steel backspacer. Thanks to its blade steel, the UKPK also provides the greatest lateral strength of the series.
Its versatility makes it suitable as a travel knife, steak knife, whittling tool, office companion, or even a light kitchen knife. You can even change for another style of clip if you want a toolish look. The UKPK won’t let you down FRN or G10 version. They are great travel non threatening folders.
The Black Brother of the Slipit family is the Metropolitan, a tad shorter than the UKPK but often described in my book as having “an everlasting edge.” This model is notable as the only Slipit presented here with an FRN (fiberglass-reinforced nylon) handle. FRN is great and solid and the Metro got a full spring/back spacer.
Its key strength lies in the choice of blade steel: Böhler M398, known for delivering extremely long-lasting edge retention at a comparatively very accessible price point. Despite its 3 mm blade stock, the Metropolitan remains an excellent slicer. While M398 offers less lateral strength than CPM SPY27, it excels in edge holding, making this model particularly well-suited as a folding skinner or for heavy-duty tasks such as breaking down cardboard.
The Red Brother of the Slipit family is the Urban, my Low Profile London Traveller, produced as an exclusive edition for Heinnie Haynes. This model was acquired at approximately twice the cost of the Metropolitan, owing to its premium blade steel: CPM S90V, a high-performance alloy offering edge retention on par with Böhler M398. Now the FRN Urban is released with M398 too which makes my previous expensive Heinnie S90V Urban quest totally obsolete.
Released prior to the availability of the Metropolitan and the M398 Urban, this knife also features a G10 handle with a distinctive finish. Its compact dimensions allow it to be carried discreetly, such as in the watch pocket of denim trousers. In this collection, the Red Brother is primarily employed as a travel knife for use in London. I have it equipped with the short MicroJimbo clip for the lowest profile possible.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Overall Length: 5.95in 151mm Closed Length: 3.54in 90mm Blade Thickness: .114in 2.9mm Blade Length: 2.49in 63mm Edge Length: 2.15in 55mm Handle Material: Red G10 Origin: Italy Steel: CPM S90V (on mine) M398 for the FRN version. Knife Weight: 60 gr (for mine) 56 gr for the FRN version in M398.
Big Pizza ? No problemo.
The Silver Brother – The Tweetanium ! The Squeak is truly a jewel within the SlipIt family. Despite its compact size, it never leaves me feeling “under-knived” when carried in a watch pocket. I once owned a Squeak Deluxe Sprint Run with a titanium handle and Elmax steel blade, which I eventually passed on to JD. Thanks to Guillaume, I was able to acquire another example, new in box.
Later came the titanium sprint-run version, which felt even sharper at the edge, requiring less effort when cutting. Its rounded titanium scales were warm to the touch, slipped smoothly into the pocket, and offered a more refined feel than the FRN model. The stiffer titanium construction also produced a stronger spring, giving the knife a crisper “walk and talk.” While one-hand opening was slightly more demanding, both versions remained capable of the classic “Spydie drop.” The titanium scales are smooth under the thumb and provide superb ergonomics in a three-finger grip. Construction is minimalist, relying on only two body screws plus one for the deep-carry clip.
This is a three fingers grip when the Urban is still a four finger grip.
This rare titanium variant stands out as a refined upgrade over the standard Squeak—an elegant evolution of an already excellent design. I love Elmax steel since my Lionspy. I remember beating the crap out of it and it was really forgiving: no chipping and great sharpness. It is tough for a stainless steel.
Its short blade is full-flat-ground, exceptionally thin at the edge, and employs a slipjoint-style “notched-joint” mechanism: the spring holds the blade open during use and offers resistance when closing.
It slice through a Coke bottle butt with its factory edge ! Not many models from the Spyderco line can do that right out of the box. In practice, performance is outstanding. The small blade slices cleanly through materials such as plastic, wood, ropes and even after extended use—up to a year on my first Elmax Squeak—it remains razor-sharp with only minimal stropping required. Elmax, a rare style among Spyderco knives, is that good !
The Spyder hole and blade spine are the also the sharpest of the family. It could be used to strike some ferro rod.
Compact yet versatile, the “mini micro” knife proves remarkably capable for everyday tasks: cutting meat at the table (where the blade’s belly is especially effective), opening tags, breaking down plastic, and more. It also maintains a discreet, non-threatening presence in public and restaurant settings. It makes a great money clip too.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Overall Length: 5.05in 128mm Closed Length: 3.05in 77mm Blade Thickness: .118in 3mm Blade Length: 2in 51mm Edge Length: 1.75in 44mm Handle Material: Titanium Origin: ItalySteel: Elmax (for mine) N690Co (for the FRN version). Knife Weight: 69 grams (48 grams for the FRN version) The Squeak in this titanium version is the heaviest of the family.
Le Choix des Armes
Blue UKPK – the versatile slicer.
Black Metropolitan – the non locking hunter’s companion.
Red Urban – the low-profile city dweller.
Silver Squeak – three fingers power house.
Each model is reliable, discreet, and delivers outstanding cutting performance thanks to their blade geometry. They shine on the plate and impress with pure slicing ability on the hardest materials (my pastic bottle tests…). Thanks to their relatively strong non locking mechanisms, they also handle whittling tasks—yes, even the Squeak is surprisingly pleasant and powerful against any piece of wood. And don’t forget, now their slip-joint strength is impeccable. Also each knife comes with a choil, keeping your fingers safe from unwanted blade closure. Really, when it comes to staying open, Sal Glesser’s four slip-joint designs outclass his excellent Roadie XL—and put Anderson’s COBOL to shame. Sharp, firm, secure, and reassuring—no surprises when handling these slipjoint knives which are proof that size doesn’t define performance. 😉
Disclaimer: this knife was supplied at no cost by Spyderco as part of their brand ambassador program. The review that follows, however, remains entirely independent and unbiased. I thank them for placing their trust in this little blog.
Paul Alexander is back, and the COBOL is perhaps his most aggressive creation yet. Built on the “techno-primitive” DNA of the NAND™, this knife isn’t just a tool—it’s an alien in your hand, standing out even in Spyderco’s lineup, which is renowned for pushing the boundaries of design.
No real lock, just a generous choil. The purpose? A steak knife? An impact tool? Or could this be Spyderco’s very first letter opener?
The blade geometry is thick, so it’s no whittler—but you could still sharpen a pencil. Or maybe… it’s a paper knife after all.
(Paper knife vs. letter opener—often confused, but they are not the same. Paper knives were made to slice open the folded edges of hand-produced books before reading. Letter openers grew out of them: longer, blunter, and built solely to tackle envelopes. Today, paper knives are mostly collectibles, while letter openers remain a staple on desks everywhere. They come in wood, metals like stainless steel, silver, or pewter, plastic, ivory, or mixed materials—often with decorative handles stealing the spotlight. Some modern designs hide a retractable razor, and electric models can blast through stacks of mail—but beware: they can nick the contents.)
But the COBOL blade explodes with a hybrid of Japanese tanto elegance and katana-inspired Americanized assassination tool, machined from M390 particle metallurgy stainless steel. Its saber-ground primary bevel flows into a saber flat grind at a faceted tip, ready to slice with surgical accuracy. It is an eye candy ! Even closed.
The handle is crafted from titanium for a sleek, minimalist look. Integral spring arms and seated ball bearings do NOT lock the blade, but a generous choil and thumb pressure on the tail keep every grip surprisingly secure. A hole in the handle aligns perfectly with the signature hole in the blade, completing the design’s clean, purposeful aesthetic.
Made in Italy, this Japanese‑inspired blade oozes quality — but don’t expect buttery action. It’s slow to open and even harder to close. Think of it as a straight razor: there’s no lock, so safe handling is essential. You actually grip it by the blade, a move that recalls antique Roman folders rather than modern folders with locking mechanisms.
Flip it open one-handed using the extended “tail”—don’t expect the thrill of a straight razor snapping into action. It’s slow.
But once open, you can admire the clash of techno-primitive design with katana-inspired elegance. In the right hands—and with the right mindset—it’s more than a letter opener; it could be a self-defense tool. After all, geishas once defended themselves with hidden blades…
A gorgeous showpiece that’s too long for UK carry rules. Opened, it goes from elegant to downright threatening.
Compared to one of Spyderco’s top EDCs, the Sage 5 Salt, the COBOL takes on a far more menacing presence. Where the Sage 5 is sleek and understated, the COBOL commands attention—its techno-primitive, katana-inspired lines give it a dangerous edge that’s impossible to ignore.
Another beautiful desk knife in my collection: the Pole Position. Desk knives, made for opening letters, are more than tools—they’re elegant objects, carefully designed and treasured by collectors.
Ambidextrous, the COBOL comes with a reversible deep-pocket wire clip for left- or right-side, tip-up carry.
So, who is the COBOL for?
Out of the box, mine won’t shave—it could use a thinner edge for my taste. It is sharp but razor not sharp. The flipping action is also really slow, but once open, you’re holding a stunning object, perfect for a desk: cutting strings, opening letters, small chores. Using it in the woods? Forget it. In the kitchen? Its geometry isn’t ideal. But as a steak knife? On the plate, it would certainly shine.
Tried the COBOL on some wood—ouch! To keep control, you’ve got to brace your index on the choil, since there’s effectively no lock. That makes it tricky and dangerously easy to catch the blade’s heel, even half open, just to avoid a jump close. Bottom line: this knife was never meant for whittling anything.
So, really, the Cobol is from another world—an alien and a looker. And yet, loving this alien is easy. The craftsmanship is impeccable: titanium engineered with clever CQC design, every detail thoughtfully executed. But it demands a place of its own. On your desk, at the table or in your collection, the COBOL isn’t just a Spyderco knife—it’s an extraterrestrial in their production. Spyderco is known for their high performance knives. Yep, in that matter this beautiful one is something from another mind. But now, if you love the alien, it’s up to you to decide how you’ll use it — but with such a very soft locking mechanism, be mindful of its limits.
Disclaimer: The Spyderco Triangle Sharpmaker Diamond Rods Set of 2 – 204D was provided by Golden, along with the Caly 3.5. This article is the perfect opportunity to put them to the test. The Sharpmaker is my own.
In the parcel from Golden were also two sets of rods: the 204CBN Cubic Boron Nitride rods and the 204D Diamond rods. Since my Caly 3.5 needed some convexing, it was time to see what these rods could do.
But you know, I’m a freehand sharpening guy. I don’t like being locked into fixed angles. I prefer to adjust pressure and movement based on what I feel directly from the blade against the rod. That’s why I’ve never been too fond of “systems” that take control away from your hands.
For me, sharpening should stay super simple, and—most importantly—adaptable. If I’m in the wild, far from the workbench, I still want to be able to bring an edge back with nothing more than a rod, a stone, or even something improvised.
That’s where the Spyderco Sharpmaker is different. It’s a system, yes, but it doesn’t dictate the process. It allows me to sharpen by feel, with freedom, and still gives me the precision I want.
Exactly — and that’s one of those clever little details only Spyderco would think of.
On the back of the Sharpmaker base, you’ve got two horizontal grooves that let you lay the rods flat. In that configuration, the tool basically transforms into a bench stone. With the diamond rods mounted this way, it works like a compact, portable diamond sharpening stone, letting you go full freehand.
So you get both options: the guided 30°/40° setup if you want consistency, and the freehand mode if you prefer to feel the steel, control pressure, and chase your own convex. That versatility is what makes the Sharpmaker more than “just a system.”
The gaffer tape trick is smart: it saves you from accidental slips while keeping the grind line safe. And yes, the 204D diamonds are hungry — they bite into ZDP-189 without hesitation, which also means they’ll scratch anything that touches them. But like you said, a working knife will earn its scars.
Polishing can always bring back some scratchless shine, but what really matters is how the geometry evolves: a little convexing, a thinner edge, and suddenly the Caly 3.5 stops being just elegant — it becomes a laser.
That’s exactly where your knife starts to become yours.
The convexing not only boosts cutting performance but also gives the edge that organic flow — you can see it in the way the bevel catches the light. It’s no longer a factory grind; it’s a living edge shaped by your own hand. It makes the knife more precious.
And by rounding the spine and softening the jimping, you’re turning what could feel harsh into something smoother, almost like a river stone. It transforms the Caly from safe queen into a companion you actually want to use every day, without hotspots or distractions.
Most people underestimate how quickly diamond or CBN rods load up, and how much that affects sharpening efficiency.
Clay stone (terre de Sommières, or even a simple pottery stone) is excellent because it’s mildly abrasive: it lifts out the embedded metal without scratching or damaging the surface of the rods, and it works faster than detergents or erasers.
It’s also in the spirit of my philosophy: keep it simple, practical, field-ready. No fancy cleaners, just a tried-and-true trick that works every time.
Dry chestnut is fibrous and can grab onto a thicker bevel, so the fact that your convexed ZDP-189 now glides “like a razor through butter” is a strong demonstration that the edge mod really paid off.
Convexing changes everything. Once the edge’s shoulders are rounded, the edge stops fighting the wood. No more wedging, just a clean, controlled push cut — like sliding through butter, even in stubborn chestnut.
That’s where ZDP-189 really shines. Most steels would give up at this geometry, folding or rolling. But at 65 HRC, ZDP holds steady. You get the sharpness of a razor without the fragility.
And the Caly 3.5? On paper, it’s a gentleman’s knife. In hand, convexed and sharp, it’s a wolf in disguise. A refined tool that thrives on real work, not just resting pretty in a pocket. Wood tells one part of the story, but plastic will reveal another — especially the stubborn bottom of a bottle. That’s where I’ll see if this convexed ZDP-189 edge can truly glide without wedging. I’ll update this post as soon as I get the chance to put it through that test.
Disclaimer: this knife was supplied at no cost by Spyderco as part of their brand ambassador program. The review that follows, however, remains entirely independent and unbiased. I thank them for placing their trust in this little blog.
Let’s take a walk back to 2010! It was a year marked by major natural and environmental disasters—the Haiti earthquake, the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, and the Chile earthquake. The swine flu pandemic, which had begun the year before, finally dissipated. On the cultural side, Lady Gaga made history with 13 VMA nominations (the most ever at the time), plus another 5 for her contribution to Beyoncé’s Video Phone. Meanwhile, Justin Bieber won Best New Artist, becoming the youngest person ever to claim a VMA.
But enough about disasters!
In 2010, ZDP-189 was the new kid on the block. The big questions were: does it stain? Is it brittle? What’s its exact composition? And carbon fiber—once a rare luxury—was suddenly being mass-produced for knife handles and had become the must-have material. I was 45. It was the year I got a wonderful gift from Rockstead: their Higo to review in ZDP189. The Michael Walker in ZDP189 was neatly carried in my watch pocket.
Proudly made in Japan.
Fifteen years later, a parcel lands at my door. Inside: a blast from the past—the Caly 3.5. Or should I say, the Mighty Caly. Clad ZDP-189 steel, proud axis screws, and that unmistakable aura. A gentleman’s knife that decided to play the outlaw with its 3.5-inch locking blade.
The father of the UKPK.
And many of the ClipIt offsprings:
Out of the box, the Caly 3.5 is incredibly pocket-friendly. The smooth carbon fiber scales make it glide in and out effortlessly, adding to its everyday usability.
This is one thing I won’t need to polish on the Caly. 😉
Now, the Caly is one of the rare Spyderco models that hasn’t been converted to full screw construction in 2025. It still carries those three rivets on the handle, radiating an unmistakable early-2000s vibe.
Most modern folders are assembled with screws, which makes them easy to disassemble and service. The Caly 3.5, by contrast, is riveted—apart from the pivot and clip screw—which means full disassembly isn’t really an option.
I understand why some people have a visceral dislike for rivets. But in my experience, they work reliably and don’t loosen over time—an important factor when you’re using a knife in remote places for long stretches. A friend of mine, once a hunter’s guide in the African rainforest, swore by riveted knives for exactly that reason: nothing to rattle loose, nothing to lose.
Personally, I won’t be field-dressing game or digging in the mud with my Caly. For me, the lack of full disassembly isn’t an issue. Cleaning with hot soapy water, a rinse, and a blast of compressed air is more than enough. No worries at all. But to quote a user back in 2013: “Disassembly for cleaning is as simple as the design: Open blade, Remove pivot pin screw, Depress lock bar, Pull out pivot and the blade falls out. Voila, that’s as far as it breaks down. No washers, nothing falls out, etc. Reassembly, just reverse the process.”
And then there’s the BIG pivot screw—so bold it practically becomes the Caly’s signature.
This is pure Sal Glesser design: a knife that melts into your hand. The carbon fiber slabs are smooth, almost glassy, while that oversized pivot not only anchors the construction but also serves as a subtle functional detail. It works as a natural index point on the handle—almost like a thumb guard, without ever creating a hot spot.
It’s not just practical; it’s a stylistic stamp. You see the same oversized pivot screw on the Michael Walker, another hallmark of Spyderco’s design language from that era.
Now, let’s talk about ZDP-189—a steel I’ve reviewed many times over the years.
While it’s most often found in high-end kitchen knives, ZDP-189 has also carved out a place in EDC designs. My own Higo J from Rockstead, for example, proudly measures in at 66.6 HRC—a testament to how hard this steel can go when heat-treated to its full potential. (ZDP-189 steel can reach a maximum hardness of 67 HRC, which is well above the values of average mass-production knives.)
Element
Portion
Effect
Chromium
20.0%
Improves wear resistance, heat resistance and scale resistance. It increases tensile strength because it acts as a carbide former. Use of rust-proof or stainless steel, as it increases corrosion resistance from a mass proportion of 12.2%. Reduction in weldability.
Carbon
3.0%
Increasing hardness and tensile strength. In larger quantities, increase in brittleness and a reduction in forgeability and weldability.
Manganese
0.5%
Improves hardness and tensile strength.
Molybdenum
1.4%
Improves hardenability, tensile strength and weldability. Reduction in forgeability and ductility.
Silicon
0.4%
Improves strength.
Vanadium
0.1%
Increasing hardness, increasing wear resistance and improving tempering resistance.
Wolfram
0.6%
Increase in heat strength, tempering resistance and wear resistance at high temperatures up to red heat.
The magic of ZDP-189 lies in its unusual recipe. With about 3% carbon—a huge amount compared to most steels—and a massive 20% chromium, it pushes the limits of what stainless steel can be. That mix makes it harder, more wear-resistant, and more corrosion-resistant than almost anything else in the pocketknife world. If you’ve ever used knives made from softer steels (well below 60 HRC), you know the frustration: the edge dulls quickly. Instead of chipping, the steel tends to roll, with the fine cutting edge flattening under pressure and losing its bite. A few quick passes through a sharpener will bring it back, but the cycle repeats too often.
With a harder steel like ZDP-189, the story is different. Edges don’t roll nearly as easily, which means the blade keeps its razor-sharp performance for far longer, even under demanding use. That’s where ZDP-189 really shines in 2010 and still shines in 2025—it holds a cutting edge like almost no other stainless steel in the EDC world. But beware as ZDP189 is also known for chipping especially on factory edges..
15 years ago my ZDP-189 Higo gave me a scare: its factory convexe edge started chipping quite badly (arrrgh!). I hadn’t been using it hard, so it caught me off guard. My guess is that the ultra-thin edge at the tip, maybe combined with a careless fumble or contact with something hard, was the culprit. The tip may have contacted something hard, which can happen without noticing. I’ve had a similar experience with another knife: a mirror-finished, thin stainless blade I was testing on bamboo. After just ten cuts, the edge looked almost serrated—but I realigned it, and the damage became nearly invisible while restoring high sharpness.
To bring it back to new, I gave it many gentle pass on a Spyderco white ceramic rod, then spent a solid hour stropping on leather with compound. The result? The knife came back sharper than ever, and with a touch of convexing the edge now feels stronger and less prone to be damaged. For all its hardness, ZDP-189 is surprisingly forgiving.
My other ZDP-189 blade ,back in 2010, the Michael Walker, hasn’t rolled or chipped, though it isn’t as “smooth” sharp as the Higo. It’s also slightly less hard than the Higo-J. It will be the same story with the Caly 3.5. I also feel that its beautiful full-flat-ground blade, with its already even edge, could benefit from a bit of convexing. Doing so would create a safety net against potential chipping, making the blade even more durable in everyday use. Sooner or later I will also smooth the blade’s spine. Good news the 420J2 steel is soft to work.
Why does the Caly 3.5 have a laminated blade made of ZDP-189/420J2?
The inner core is ZDP-189, while the outer shell is 420J2. The idea behind a laminated or “clad” blade is simple: the inner core provides a very hard, high-performance edge, while the outer layers are softer and more corrosion-resistant. This combination gives you the best of both worlds: excellent edge retention from the ZDP-189, and a tougher, more flexible spine that helps prevent damage when pressure is applied.
The softer 420J2 outer layer will scratch over time but it will be easy to polish back. It also improves corrosion resistance, especially near the pivot area. Even though ZDP-189 has a very high chromium content, it can still stain, but won’t rust like other hard laminated steels such as HAP40. The cladding adds a bit of toughness to the overall blade, compensating for the fact that ZDP-189 is not the toughest stainless steel in case of torsion.
Carrying the Caly 3.5 is another smooth experience—it practically disappears in your pocket. The deep-carry clip, smooth handle, and thin profile combine to make it a true pocket ghost. But deployment is definitely the Caly 3.5’s vintage characteristic, especially compared to modern compression-lock knives like the Microjimbo. The action is less smooth and a bit slow—which, in fairness, suits a gentleman’s (or lady’s) folder. Out of the box, it was quite grippy, but a few drops of nano oil helped.
One reason for this feel is that the knife lacks washers. The blade and stainless liners are polished at the Seki factory to minimize friction, but they remain in direct contact. Over time, the blade gradually leaves “traces” at the pivot where it rubs against the liners, which is normal for this type of construction. With a little oil, there is no issue.
Using, carrying, and deploying the Caly 3.5 is like going from a 2025 electric Kia to a classic common-rail diesel BMW. It’s rougher, yes, but still comfortable, reliable, and full of character—part of its undeniable charm. And it gets better and better… One big asset is how easy to goes in and out of my pockets where it’s disappears like a much smaller knife. This is purely the opposite of a pocket shredder. It makes the carrying experience pleasant and confortable.
Details like Boyle’s dent on the lock (which flushes with hand), the proud liners and the full stainless steel spacer held by rivets add to that vintage appeal. My Caly 3.5 exhibits zero vertical play, giving the same solid backlock experience I enjoy on my Police 4 in K390. This is rock-solid. And that 3 mm-thick blade contributes significant lateral strength, meaning the Caly can be used harder than its elegant appearance might suggest.
The factory edge is a bit on the thick side, so its performance doesn’t fully meet my needs. At the moment, the Caly 3.5 can’t even slide cleanly through the base of a plastic bottle.
So for my personal taste, I’ll likely smooth the spine, convex the edge, and round that blade jimping (a real hot spot for hard cutting), as well as soften the handle edges until they feel like a pebble. But this will take time—I don’t want to compromise the overall beauty of the Caly 3.5. It’s a true looker, eye candy for anyone who appreciates Sal Glesser’s designs.
But as Bob Terzuola always says: “If your knife is still sharp, it means you don’t use it enough!” So let’s put that Caly 3.5 to work. First step: rounding the angles.
Created by Michael Janich, the MicroJimbo takes the iconic Yojimbo 2 design but in a smaller form, making it more legally and practically usable for everyday carry (EDC). This piece is a true jewel. With an MSRP of $300, it ranks among the most expensive Spydercos when measured by cost per millimeter of edge: just 57 mm. That’s a scale of value I may have to start considering. On the Microjimbo in 15V, for example, each millimeter of edge comes to $5.26, whereas on an Endura in VG10 it’s only $1.56 per millimeter.
Of course, CPM 15V is costly, and two signatures on the blade mean royalties. It’s a jewel, yes—but also a gem in its own right. No disclaimer on this one, as it was bought by myself at Lamnia in Finland for 237 euros. Great service and it was delivered in France 5 days later.
Action wise, the detent on mine is quite strong, with no lock stick, and the blade drops freely back into the handle. This little folder practically oozes quality.
Compared to my Yojimbo 2, the Microjimbo features a full flat–ground blade with a distal taper—very reminiscent of the first Yojimbo in that regard but with full-flat-ground Wharncliffe style blade, roughly 2.45 inches long.
It is made of Made from CPM-15V, a cold-work tool steel with nearly 15% vanadium, prized for insane wear resistance and edge retention. The blade is heat-treated using a protocol developed by Shawn Houston, further enhancing its performance with a HRC of 65 (more or less but that’s a lot !).
Ambidextrous, tip-up carry only for the MJ and its reversible deep-pocket short wire clip.
It is equipped with Spyderco’s reliable Compression Lock.
The 3.7 mm thick, stonewashed blade is a beauty—short, sharp, and full of character. The edges aren’t perfectly even toward the tip, but that doesn’t bother me; sooner or later it will be convexed anyway. After just a couple of passes on leather, the Microjimbo was already delivering a crisp, razor-sharp edge, effortlessly shaving arm hair. And for once with CPM-15V, I was pleasantly surprised at how well the steel responded to stropping.
In my CPM-15V family this little folder is not the one to underestimate. That blade shape as proven to be incredibly powerful. This knife feels like Lotus Seven equipped with a V8.
The Microjimbo 15V, with its self-defense pedigree, actually falls into the same MBC category as the Lil’ Temperance. With such a compact edge, it’s more of a last-ditch option—a tool that could still deter a threat. It won’t reach vital organs, but it could sever an artery. That said, knives remain one of the worst possible choices for self-defense in my book. Knives are ambush/backstabbing weapons.
Another last-ditch, highly capable small folder is the Chaparral Serrated. Its serrations can be extremely painful—an advantage in self-defense situations when you need to break a hold and get away.
Remember: 1 – Run, 2 – Hide, 3 – Fight. Fighting should always be your last option!
For three times the price of a Metropolitan, you get the same edge length but in a heavier package. Once in hand, it feels remarkably secure—despite having neither guard nor choil—almost like holding a small fixed blade.
Another comparaison shot: the Lil Native convexed by Jan Dirk feels much smaller and stubby than the Microjimbo. But on the picture there is no real difference. Both are reliable lil’big knives with strong blades and strong locks.
There’s no jimping on the handle or the blade, yet indexing the knife is effortless. You always know exactly where the edge is, allowing for precise, controlled cuts. That G10 definitely leans toward the pocket-shredder side.
I prefer my G10 with a smoother finish, so I used 400-grit sandpaper to tone it down—taking care to avoid inhaling the hazardous G10 dust.
I’m able to carry the Microjimbo in my watch pocket. I appreciate the strong detent—it keeps the blade securely closed while in my pocket. However, because it’s so strong, it’s difficult to open with any finger other than the thumb. No easy Spyderflick on this one.
The Microjimbo isn’t out of place on the kitchen cutting board. In fact, this will likely be its main battlefield, as I use my pocket knives extensively in the kitchen. I do need to be careful, though—its pointed tip tends to catch the flesh with a predator-like hunger.
Once razor-sharp, I haven’t been able to dull any of my CPM-15V blades so far, even after cutting cardboard and other abrasive materials. I’m glad to carry such a compact yet robust folder as I continue to explore this remarkable alloy.
Michael Janich has clearly done his homework on this little knife. Designing smaller blades is always tricky, and this one is a pure gem. The choice of a full-flat-ground blade is fully justified by the placement of the Spyderhole, and the geometry remains uncompromised.
I’m looking forward to putting this little knife through its paces.
Quoting Sal on the forums after the resurrection of an thread from 2017 about a “Giant Roadie”.
“7 year old conversation. Just shows how new concepts can take a long time to grow, refine, mature and serve a the customer. I like to think of it as a “Safe Portable Edge”. The blade is the same thickness. It does have a half-stop. It’s not really a “Giant”. blade length is under 3″, 2-1/4″ cutting edge, effective finger choil, safe, convenient, with a clip.
This is a concept that began with a knife legal for airline flights. Once we began working with models, it became obvious, that the concept in a larger size would be like a simple slip-joint that did’t lock and was not one-hander, that would meet many legal requirements in this changing world, but still perform well when “cutting”.”
The idea behind an EDC knife is simple: it should be ready for use every day, in all situations. The Roadie XL lives up to that ideal. I’ve put it through its paces on all kinds of materials—cardboard, plastic, even tougher scraps—and the M398 blade shines in edge retention, performing in the same league as CPM S90V. It’s incredibly useful to have such a high-performance steel on a small EDC; you can carry it for long periods without worrying about constantly touching it up on diamonds or ceramic.
The deep-pocket clip is a thoughtful addition. It doesn’t create hotspots, and it actually helps fill the hand nicely, adding a little extra control during cutting tasks.
I also tested the Roadie XL on some Apple wires from my old iPhone before recycling. The convexed edge showed no damage—just a small mark, with no bending or chipping. So far, M398 has pleasantly surprised me with its toughness and resilience. Come to the same with the Metropolitan.
Some white plastic from the wires stuck to the blade during cutting, but otherwise no issues. As a steak or cheese knife, the little Roadie XL blade is discreet yet surprisingly powerful. Its comfortable handle makes all plate chores effortless, and it even managed push cuts on a baguette despite the short blade length—truly impressive for such a compact folder.
As a steak or cheese knife, the little blade is discreet and offers a lot of cutting power in the plate. The confortable handle is perfect for any plate chore. It has been able to pushcut the baguette despite it blade length. Very impressive !
The Roadie XL has stood up to sink duty with no issues—truly a stainless companion. It has proven itself as a handy, tiny kitchen knife: it can get dirty and be easily cleaned under hot water, ready for the next task.
Opening it one-handed is a breeze: just hold the blade and make a quick whip of the wrist—twice, thanks to the middle stop. Sorry Sal, but when there’s a will…
I’ve also used it half-open in a shop to remove labels—a very stealthy method. I held it edge-up, partially deployed, which worked perfectly.
An unorthodox method, yet it works thanks to the particularly exotic blade shape of the Roadie XL. This is a good-looking knife, boasting roughly the same cutting edge as a Chaparral.
After some real-world use as my only carried knife, I can confidently say it excels in its niche: light, ultra-slim carry, yet with just enough edge to handle genuine tasks. Small and lightweight, with a capable blade and a sharp tip—surprisingly, it has become one of my favorite knives. Another Made In Maniago home run ! Ganzo !
that the Lil’ Temp is very much a hidden gem, refined over two decades by Sal Glesser. In essence, it’s his answer to the compact, heavy-duty 3-inch folder — a kind of “Techno Glesser” that still offers a full, hand-filling grip. Its tall blade profile allows for a finely tuned convex geometry, translating into cutting performance that feels far beyond its size.
K390 is, in my book, a friendly steel. By that I mean it sharpens up to a razor edge without too much effort. It isn’t quite as easy to work with as CPM Magnacut, but it’s far more forgiving than something like CPM 15V. The trade-off is that K390 will stain readily, so regular wiping is part of the routine.
The trade-off is that K390 stains readily, so a quick wipe-down is essential to keep it looking and performing at its best.
The fact that K390 isn’t stainless is not really an issue if you keep the blade clean and check it regularly for any sign of rust. In practice, a bit of grease or oil is enough to protect it, and over time the steel develops a natural patina that gives the knife real character. My own Lil’ Temp is already showing that patina, and it only adds to its appeal.
Geometry is absolutely critical when working with wood. No matter how tough the steel, without the right blade geometry the knife simply won’t bite or carve efficiently.
A full flat-ground high blade simply can’t compete when working on hard wood. That’s why Sal Glesser’s “Lambo of bushcraft knives,” theProficient, stands out: it combines a high full-flat ground blade made from a high-carbide super steel (S90V) with an exceptionally comfortable handle. The result is a knife that slices, carves, and handles demanding tasks with ease — the kind of tool that performs all day without fatigue.
The relatively thick handle of the Lil’ Temp makes it extremely comfortable to hold and use. Its design also provides excellent indexation, making it easy to know exactly where the edge is — even easier than on an Opinel or the round handle of the Proficient.
In the woods, the Lil’ Temp is easy to deploy and put into action. Its point is robust enough to withstand some abuse. While K390 isn’t the toughest steel available, it’s still harder and more wear-resistant than many stainless alloys, making it highly capable in practical use.
The thick spine of the Lil’ Temp provides an easy resting spot for the thumb, especially on push cuts. This gives excellent control and allows you to apply strength precisely where it’s needed.
The grain structure of K390 responds exceptionally well when working on wood. After some careful convexing on diamond stones, the edge has developed a shape that balances sharpness and durability perfectly for carving and utility tasks.
I was able to carve pickets without breaking a sweat. The knife’s gentle belly plays a key role, working like a guillotine on the wood fibers and making controlled cuts effortless.
The true kings of woodworking and whittling remain the Wolfspyder and the Boker Vigtig vs Wild. Their authentic Scandi grinds allow them to bite into wood with astonishing ease, making controlled carving and fine whittling effortless.
In that context, one of my favorite full-flat-ground folders for whittling is the Native 5 Salt, once convexed. It’s an absolute pleasure to use on wood, combining smooth slicing with precise control.
A folder’s handle will always be less comfortable than that of a good fixed blade, simply because of the compromise required to fold the blade into it.
That said, the Lil’ Temp is among the very best in this regard. Other outstanding handles include the Manly Comrade, the Benchmade Adamas, the Cold Steel Recon 1, and the Wolfspyder — the latter benefiting from Ray Mears’ design philosophy, focused on knives you can use all day long without developing hot spots or splinters.
(Comrade, Recon 1 on the LT’s left and Wolfspyder on its right)
(Adamas and Lil’ Temp)
Another example of relatively demanding use is making this risotto using an old chunk of dry Parmigiano which needs to have its rind removed, then cut into half-inch cubes — no easy task given how hard the cheese can be.
It’s also a great way to detect hot spots: the weakest point, if any, in the compression lock. That notch on the back of the handle all but guarantees a sore hand after extended use.
Apart from a single trip into the woods, I’ve mostly used the Lil’ Temp in the kitchen, where it’s been steadily building a nice patina. I’ve also taken the opportunity to test its ergonomics with wet hands. The FRN handle pattern is one of Sal Glesser’s great innovations: it gives the knife a no-nonsense, tool-like appearance while ensuring the handle stays locked in place once gripped.
Conclusion
The Lil’ Temperance 3 K390 Lightweight (“Shorty”) stands out as a compact powerhouse in Spyderco’s lineup. With its super-steel blade and excellent geometry, it elevates everyday carry versatility, combining cutting performance, ergonomics, and durability in a smaller format.
Its lightweight build and aggressive handle design make it a tool you can truly rely on. Whether in the kitchen, at the workbench, or outdoors, the Lil’ Temp proves itself capable of handling demanding tasks without compromise. The FRN handle texture, designed by Sal Glesser, not only lends a purposeful, tool-like look but also ensures a secure grip, even with wet hands.
From reviews across the community, a consistent picture emerges:
Exceptional cutting performance — even in tasks where utility blades struggle
Superior carving and utility — excels at both fine control and hard work
Secure lockup — the compression lock feels noticeably beefier than on similar models
Excellent ergonomics — comfortable for long use, even damp conditions
Edge retention — the K390 steel holds its sharpness impressively well
Durability — little to no wear after months of use
Practical carry — light, compact, and easy to deploy one-handed
Minimal maintenance — just regular wiping and light oiling keeps it in peak condition
As one reviewer put it, this “box-destroying little chode of a knife” punches well above its size. Another called it “a tank… carefree, strong AF, and super comfortable.” After extended use — from food prep to cardboard — users report only minor stropping needed, with many calling it one of their favorite Spydercos in decades.
In short, the Lil’ Temperance 3 K390 Lightweight is a sleeper hit: not the most popular Spyderco, but for those who carry it, often a personal favorite. A compact EDC with the heart of a work horse.
Disclaimer: This knife was supplied at no cost by Golden as part of their brand ambassador program. Spyderco’s decision to include this publication is appreciated, though the review that follows remains independent and unbiased.
This is my first glimpse at the middle Brother of the SLIPIT™, the Metropolitan. Made in Maniago. It is an Italian Spyderco. Un altro piccolo grande coltello !
It is made in Maniago like my Heinnie Urban and it is a pure Sal Glesser design. The blade comes razor-sharp straight out of the box. The factory edge is excellent, though I know it can be refined just a touch on leather. It’s a very thin grind—thinner even than on my Roadie XL. While M398 isn’t as leather-friendly as SPY27, it can still be brought to a high polish, as I managed with my Roadie XL after breaking its tip.
Being slightly longer than the Urban, the Metro’s handle comfortably fits four fingers when using the choil. This choil also adds an important safety feature, preventing accidental closure on your fingers. The choil-hump combinaison—acts like a guard, directing cutting force straight into the blade while relieving stress on the handle and pivot.
“Metro In the Middle” pictured: the G10 SPY27 UKPK “Golden Child”, the Metro and the Heinnie G10 S90V Urban.
To quote my friend Wayne Thomas Heywood Adamson: “So now we have a middle ground between the UKPK and the Urban. I was surprised when the Urban shrank in size but that was clearly now to make room for the Metropolitan.”
(Made in Golden – Maniago – Maniago.) The 68mm Metro’s blade thickness measures 3 mm at the spine, with a full flat grind in a leaf-shaped profile. By comparison, the longer UKPK “Golden Child” comes in at just 2.5 mm, which makes it the undisputed king of SlipIt designs. That said, opting for a slightly thicker blade in M398 is a sound choice. M398 is not known for its toughness—certainly less forgiving than Spyderco’s in-house CPM SPY27 alloy—so the added thickness provides welcome reinforcement.
The S90V Urban is 2,9mm !
And the Roadie XL is 2,8mm
Making the Metropolitan the thicker of the wild bunch ! By an hair !
Now about the weight…
At 51 grammes it is really light in the pocket.
The action is very good. It is as strong as my Urban and UKPK. perhaps a bit less hard to close but this is not really an issue. I have noticed the Metro’s back is a full spacer/spring construction like a G10 version (when the UKPK FRN Salt is not for example.) It does not share the same “fork” spring of the UKPK but the same slipjoint mechanism as the Urban. You can feel the spacer moving up when closing.
So what can we expected from this Metropolitan compared to its siblings? A little more room for your fingers. The Urban and the Squeak are three fingers knives, the Metro and UKPK are four fingers. This is also an opportunity to showcase M398 in a high, full-flat-ground, thin blade. The Roadie XL’s narrower profile already favors cutting efficiency, and the Metro builds on that. In terms of edge retention, M398 belongs in the same category as S90V—a steel I know well from my Urban model, where securing an exclusive sprint run was a real challenge. With the Metro, however, M398 is now part of the regular production lineup, offering users a true “super stainless” steel in an accessible package. But beware M398 does not like torsions, like my Walker in ZDP189 which has been able to survive all those years.
The Metropolitan could really be a major upgrade for my Italian Hares Hunter in Tuscany. For the record, skinning game—especially dealing with hair full of sand and dirt—puts a significant challenge on edge retention. Hunters typically don’t use their knives for woodcraft; their main task is working on hares and similar game. In that context, a blade of 68mm in M398 could offer a real advantage.
The Metropolitan—easy to carry, legal in many countries, and made of stainless steel—could be the perfect hunter’s SlipIt, which is great news for many of my friends.
First things first: I needed to “de-shoulder” the edge, and K390 proved its reputation as a hard steel. I noticed it again when rounding the spine a bit — those vanadium carbides really make sanding a challenge. Then again, sanding has always been something of a signature for me, especially when shaping convex edges. With 2% cobalt in the mix, keeping the blade clean is essential to avoid stains or rust.
Now, onto the fun part! When you get a new knife, what matters most is how it fits into your life: what makes you smile, how people react to it, and how it feels to carry and draw it from your pocket. The joy of using a good tool should always be a pleasant experience.
The Lil’ Temp 3 is stubby, with a distinctly modern folding knife look. Its blue handle helps it appear approachable — a friendly tool rather than a “ninja weapon.”
One of the biggest drawbacks of the original Lil’ Temp back in 2001 was its clip. That thick, rigid piece of steel with four screws made getting the knife in and out of your pocket more difficult than it needed to be.
The LT3 solves this with its spoon clip, which is easy to tune. Following Sal’s advice, the knife is now effortless to retrieve from the pocket — a huge improvement. The LT3’s handle design also helps: I carry the folder tip-up, and the beak at the end of the handle, combined with the FRN traction patterns, makes the knife practically jump into my hand. Drawing it is effortless, even while sitting in a car.
The squarish handle also is a big plus: it helps indexing the knife instinctively : You know where is your edge immediately. So, it is very safe and easy to draw it and open it, do the cut and then close it and pu it back in the pocket. You do that without thinking. Muscles memory… It is a huge plus for a working knife’s user to be able to use the LT3 and close it and put it away back in the pocket in a breeze. This is also really enjoyable, and coming from many great Spyderco Designs like the Military 2 or the Sage 5 or the Para 3, it is noticeable how nice that LT3 LW is in getting into action. To sum up, it is really pleasant !
For exemple my lovely Lionsteel Nano is not the easiest to bring into action but it is forgiven as it is considered as a “Lady & Gentleman” folder.
But for a workhorse they are other specifications. Safety and reliability in putting in action your knife is mandatory.
FRN once molded in scales can propose high tech shapes and pattern designed by Sal Glesser which are enhancing the ergos even with wet hands.
The LT3 is one of the most confortable folder i have ever grip. The handle is thick, filling my hand’s palm and ready to be squeezed for hard cuts. The thick blade spine is asking to be pushed into materials. That’s why my first mission was in the kitchen with tomatoes and lemons…. 😉
After a first cut into lime and avocados the blade was already getting its nice patina. K390 is deadly serious about getting stained and it is a good thing as that patina will protect the naked steel from pitting. I just wipe it clean after a rinse under the tap and check that the pivot to be well oiled. This is exactly the opposite I do with the Sage 5 Salt ! I’m careless wth those Salt folders. This Sage is smooth like butter even without any oiled pivot. Magnacut and the Sage pivot design turn it like into a knife you can keep dirty and forget in the sink. Not the LT3. As strong as its is, its Achilles heel will always been proper care and maintenance. But serious users know how to take care of their tools. And maintenance is also part of the fun of owning good knives. The patina on the K390 blade will always show proudly that your knife is a user not a safe queen.
There is also the solution to cut cheese to keep naturally some grease your blade. Those two cuts here has been made with the LT3. As you can notice those are clean push cuts. the geometry is that great. Actually, in the kitchen, or preparing the meal in a camp, that LT3 is at home. That 4mm thick spine is not an obstacle as the blade is tall.
This is one of the things I love in my Cold Steel Voyager or Recon 1 XL: thick high blade but thin geometry. Thhose got much longer blades than the LT3 !
But the C69PBL3K390 does not act like a wedge on fruits like avocado or apple. But once you turn it against harder material like plastic, you can apply a lot of force ! The handle is so comfy you can use it like a fixed blade. This stubby folder turns into one of the most solid “matter separator” ever made by Spyderco. It feels much more solid than their flagship, the Military and much confortable than their Shaman ! Go figure ! Let’s not forget they all got the same designer but, after 25 years of in house refinement, the LT3 is not a small contender. I even feel the LT3 could be the personal answer from Sal to the Spyderco Techno ! 3 inches of pure K390 performance.
Now thickness is always an important factor in performance. The UKPK is uncanny sharp with its thin blade. But it is designed for more mundane and delicate works not for being used hard in a construction site, for example. The LT3 plays in the same field as the Tenacious. (The last sprint run in CPM-M4 is really perfect for dirty hard chores.)
Both knives are choil less, with full flat ground blades, and they got an open back construction handle, easy to check and clean. The Tenacious is a little bit longer offering a great blade/handle ratio. But the LT3 got a stouter blade and a much better action/ compression lock. And also a much much confortable handle.
Many of our blades are designed to a blade length legality. The Delica is a perfect example. The blade length is 3.0″ which is acceptable in many places for legal reasons and for social concerns. The handle designed to the blade length is just not large enough for many of the people that use knives as tools. So I made the choice to give the handle extra length for safety and control.
In my opinion, blade to handle ratios are an “eye” thing, which is fine, but I prefer to design with the bend towards function and safety. “A scalpel would not perform better if the handle were smaller or the blade longer”.
“Choil less” does not mean that your index finger is in jeopardy ! In case the ultra strong compression lock would fail or get disengaged… There is no choil but there is a kick ! So your index finger is relatively safe !
Wait a minue! That LT3 Lightweight’s handle reminds the handle of the now discontinued Spyderco Vagabond. (The FB12 Vagabond was a compact fixed blade designed for on-the-go food preparation, such as picnics or packed lunches.)
See?
Same “beak” at the pommel too !
Thick handle and thick 3 inches blade on both.
Same designer again. 😉 I told you the LT3 was a “wandering rōnin” 😉
So once the LT3 has jumped in your hand, it is really sheeple friendly with all its gentle curves and nice handle color. It looks like a puppy of a bigger knife, a cute knife actually. That’s also a big plus for a low profile working tool. If someone working in a ranch uses a LT3, it won’t raise any eyebrows. It is as threatening as a screwdriver. Nowadays this is a big plus to own a low profile knife. Also when in sheeple hands, the LT3 is able to deliver. Yesterday, the family kept borrowing my knife, even to cut the crust of the pie for the Grand Ma ! This would not happen with my beautiful pointy Military 2 (Even my pointy UKPK was seen by them as a weapon able to pierce some armor…) ! The Lil’Temperance is just seen as a high tech folding tool, easy to control and put on “safe” and this is just what we ask when children are running around the table.
“The game never ends when your whole world depends On the turn of a friendly card” Alan Parson Project.
The Temperance tarot card represents balance, moderation, and harmony. It encourages patience and finding the right mix in life – whether in emotions, relationships or work. It is a sign of inner peace and divine timing. And this is exactly what the Lil Temperance3 Lightweight is oozing from its synthetic pores right at the moment you hold it.
NemoKnivesReview 