The Chaparral series is quite unique in Spyderco’s catalog. Originally designed to showcase different handle materials on the same platform, it has evolved into a performance-driven tool for one simple reason: the blade stock is exceptionally thin. That thinness means it cuts deep with minimal effort.
It is even thinner than the UKPK which is the thinnest of the SlipIt Family. (“SLIPIT®” is Spyderco’s trademark name for non-locking folding knives. These knives stay open through spring tension rather than a mechanical lock.)
2mm for the Chap and 2,5 for the UKPK.
I’ve owned the original carbon fiber version, and earlier this year I reviewed the Lightweight serrated model — still one of the most efficient “matter separators” you can carry in your pocket. Now, thanks to the Spyderco Ambassador Program, I’ve had the great opportunity to test the Slipjoint Chaparral.
It’s worth pointing out that the Chaparral is far from an entry-level model. It’s the premium, Taiwanese-built sibling in the SlipIt family — and at about twice the price of most SlipIt knives, it clearly plays in a higher class.
And this is an eye candy:
You can notice that Spyderco even includes a transparent protector over the clip area to prevent the handle from the clip during transport.
The knife arrived sealed in a plastic bag, likely to protect the wooden handles from changes in humidity. Made in Taichung, Taiwan, and shipped to Golden, Colorado, this precaution makes perfect sense — Golden’s dry climate has been known to affect wood scales before (as seen with their Bushcraft fixed blade). The handles themselves are beautiful. Carrying a piece of wood in your pocket almost feels like carrying a good luck charm.
This is my first Spyderco folder with wooden scales, and I must say — it has real charm.
The knife comes with Spyderco’s standard wire clip, but I have swapped it out for the shorter clip used on the MicroJimbo, Lil’ Native, or Dragonfly — it’s more discreet and I wanted to do it before leaving any mark on the wood.
Here pictured with the Metropolitan and with the microclip mounted on. A downside of the wire clip is that it can create a “hotspot”, or point of discomfort, when applying significant pressure. That’s why I prefer that shorter clip cannibalized from another folder — it helps avoid this issue. When doing extended wood prep or cutting in the field, where downward force is applied, ergonomics really matter.
BTW the Metropolitan pictured above costs about half the price of the Chaparral, and while both fall into the same blade-length category, the Met’s blade is roughly 33% thicker. The Metropolitan’s M398 blade is impressive when it comes to edge retention, but the CTS-XHP used on the Chaparral has proven to be a reliable, all-terrain stainless steel that performs beautifully on that exceptionally thin blade stock. An M398 blade at just 2 mm thick would certainly be too brittle for practical use.
Here is the Chap pictured with the MicroJimbo, the UKPK, the Serrated Chap, the Wasp and the Roadie XL.
Now, about the mechanics: The Chaparral SLIPIT specifically replaces the usual Chaparral’s back-lock with this “notch-joint” spring system. The Chaparral backlock is also unique in the Spyderco catalog as it get an hidden pin for zero vertical play . Most Spyderco slipjoints close in two stages — first, disengaging the spring tension, then a mid-stop for safety. Not the Chaparral. Once you disengage the spring, the blade flows smoothly all the way to the closed position. (Compare that to the Manly Wasp (pictured in orange) or Comrade, which both have four distinct steps!) That said, disengaging the blade on the Chaparral requires a bit of effort — which is actually a good thing, especially for whittling. Feeling a blade start to close while it’s wedged in wood is never pleasant. I’ve had that experience with the beautiful COBOL, and it’s not something I’d want to repeat. Compared to other SlipIt models, the Chaparral is not in the same range of spring tension. I was initially afraid the action might feel too soft. It is not soft but noticeably less hard than my UKPK, Urban, Squeak or Metropolitan. My strongest being my Heinnie G10 Urban.
All in all, the Chaparral is a very capable tool — not just a pretty face. While its aesthetics are undeniably strong (especially with those bird’s-eye maple scales), some users have raised concerns about the stability and durability of the wood in moist or wet environments. Naturally, a wooden handle requires a bit of care — you don’t want to let it soak in the sink. (Buy a UKPK Salt instead !) Wood isn’t G10 or FRN; its warmth and character come at a small cost in terms of maintenance and environmental sensitivity. If you need something very rugged (wet/humid environments, rough carry), it might not be the best choice or you might pick a version with more durable scales.
And again, that blade stock is so super thin which makes it an incredible slicer. Opinel class ! You need to experience it to believe it. That’s the case for all Chaparral anyway, nothing new about that.
The fit and finish is near perfect. Notice how the spine and handle are gently bevelled as always with Taichung’s ! This is little folder for users who prioritize slicing performance, sharpness, and elegance, the Chaparral SLIPIT is just appropriate for EDC/“gentleman, lady” use. The non-locking SLIPIT mechanism is suited for jurisdictions (including Europe/UK) where locking blades may be restricted — that adds to its appeal. If you want also a knife that carries lightly, looks premium, and doesn’t feel like a bulky tactical folder, this hits that niche. But you may want to treat its maple scales carefully and avoid heavy moisture. I will rinse my Chap under the tap but immediately wipe it dry, this is as simple as that. I will see if wood will change on the long run and it will surely add some character. No worry. The non-locking SLIPIT mechanism may not feel as secure as a lock-back, and the “no half-stop” means the feel is really different that other SlipIt designed by Sal Glesser. Anyway any Chaparral will teach you a lesson on the importance of grind and thin geometry but this one will keep it legal in many countries.
If you’re seeking a precise, elegant everyday-carry folder with top-tier steel, superb slicing geometry, refined looks and minimal pocket presence — the Chaparral SLIPIT delivers strongly. Oh boy does it slice, hell yes. And it brings luck.
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: 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.
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: before going further I need to precise that this knife has been sent to me for free by Golden as part of their brand ambassador program. I thank Spyderco for choosing this little blog and for their trust in my reviews.
“The Lil’ Temperance has been a 20 year personal project. We planned an FRN version 10 years ago, but because it is a smaller market to serve, and I wanted to epitomize the concept, the progress was slow. We changed the design, locks, clips, patterns, etc. Made many prototypes over the years.
The “Spirit” of the design has remained the same. Essentially, a tough, legal 3″ blade MBC folder. Along with my own experience, I had input from James Keating (the Riddle of Steel), Bob Taylor (Warrior designer), Mike Janich (whom we all trust and revere), Bram Frank, Craig Douglas and Laci Szabo.
The first runs made for an interesting design, that was effective for two grips. Then I altered the design to also serve Pikal concepts (forward edge up and reverse edge in.), which was not incorporated in the original design. I’m looking forward to the FRN version. sal“
My first Lil’ Temperance was a “Rhino” — the nickname for the C69 full-flat-ground trailing point blade. That model was released 25 years ago. At the time, I also gave it another nickname: the Lil’ Chinook, after James Keating’s Chinook — a stout folder with a thick trailing-point blade made from CPM440V.
I even found a picture from Knives Plus to document it:
That folder was also available in Leaf Shape Blade like this new K390 just received from Golden today.
Twenty-five years ago, Sal Glesser was deeply influenced by the Martial Blade Craft approach. During that period, he designed the FB05 Temperance, a fixed blade in VG10 made in Japan with combat applications in mind. A trainer version was also available, featuring a red handle and a dull, skeletonized blade.
Sal also created a folding companion: the very stout Lil’ Temp C69, made in S60V (440V) in Golden. It was marketed as “a compact yet heavy-duty folding knife suitable for defensive use.”
Both the FB05 and the Lil’ Temp C69 featured round marks in their handles to facilitate quick grip changes — for example, transitioning from an icepick grip to a hammer grip — a key element in knife fighting. The C69 even had a special clip designed to match its three craters, showcasing the new in-house Compression Lock. The first iteration was extremely strong, often painfully pinching the skin between thumb and index, but in every other way, it was a true “folder on steroids.”
I don’t advocate using knives for defense; they should be a last-ditch option — the very last weapon you’d want to rely on. Historically, knives have always been tools of attack, from backstabbing to throat cutting, not instruments for self-preservation.That’s why I was glad to see that the Temperance II shifted toward a more “camp utility–oriented” design. The current Sprint Run of the Lil’ Temp I features a CPM Cruwear blade, which emphasizes tooling performance over combat potential. Unlike a VG10 blade, which could be used as a weapon, Cruwear is designed to stay sharp reliably over time — a knife for work, not just to be sharp once and used in aggression.
The K390 version of the Lil’ Temperance 3, following the path of the VG10 model, continues this shift from weapon to tool. Gone are the rotating points on the clip and handle; the focus is now purely on utility. With K390 steel, the knife becomes a genuinely tough, long-lasting edge tool — a folder built for work rather than combat.
That 4 mm-thick blade with its high full-flat grind really begs to be used hard — it inspires confidence in every cut. Its leaf-shaped profile would even make it an excellent Parmigiano knife, allowing you to twist the blade into the cheese to fragment it with ease. 😉 For reference, the Millie and Shaman feature slightly thinner blades at 3.7 mm.
K390 is simply a great steel. Period. I’ve already written extensively about it — for those interested, here’s a link to one of my detailed reviews.
In short, K390 is a high-vanadium tool steel with outstanding wear resistance. It can hold an edge through extended wood carving, feathersticking, or fire prep. Although K390 is non-stainless and will develop a patina, it is forgiving, strong, and maintains a razor-sharp edge for a very long time.
K390 is made for workers who need a reliable tool and know how to care for their blade. It responds exceptionally well to leather stropping, which helps maintain its edge. (For reference, the upcoming CPM Magnamax is expected to be a stainless version of K390, similar to how CPM Magnacut relates to CPM 4V.)
Keep in mind that K390 loves to patina and will rust if left unprotected. A light coating of mineral oil — like the kind sold by Ikea for cutting boards — is an easy and effective way to keep corrosion at bay.
I noticed a small nick on the out-of-box factory edge. No big deal — it happens, especially since the knife had just been “chipped” to France. 😉
To fix it, I reached for my Spyderco Stuff 2 and Fällkniven DC4 diamond stones. I worked the blade carefully, avoiding the edge on leather, until the nick was no longer visible. A few passes on a white ceramic rod brought the edge back to razor sharpness. Ten minutes later… the Lil’ Temp was ready for action.
It’s now impossible to spot the chipping — or maybe it was a slight bend. Either way, it’s fixed. I’ve seen the same issue with my Tenacious in M4 after it hit a stone floor, and once again, diamond stones worked their magic.
K390 behaves similarly to CPM-M4: it’s forgiving and easy to maintain despite being a stellar alloy. While I love CPM-15V for its toughness, it’s a bear to sharpen, whereas K390 is much easier to fix.
That said, K390 is still non-stainless: it will pit and rust if neglected. Take care of it. I know plenty of people who would struggle — they throw their knives in a toolbox and never clean them. K390 is not for them. But for those who maintain their tools, it’s a super duper steel that rewards proper care.
The Lil’ Temp has no choil, which means you rely entirely on the handle for grip and control. I love choils on slipjoints, where there’s no lock and you often grab the folder by the blade. But on a reliable locking folder, a zero choil works perfectly.
The Compression Lock is ultra-reliable, strong, and designed to prevent accidental disengagement. You can depend on it completely — there’s no fumbling, no second-guessing.
That thumb ramp is wide and a perfect comfy spot for your thumb or for that tender web skin between the thumb and the index finger. The action is smooth but as smooth as the Sage5 or the Millie 2. No vertical play. No pinching. Drop chute after a little wrist flick. The opening arc is a little wider on this one due to the placement of the hole a little far from the axis but the Spyderflick is easily done. It is fidget pleasant folder ! I don’t think it is good for tip down carry and “spyderdrops” as the guard is a little to wide. But for tip up carry and middle finger’s flips, it is perfect. The relatively thick handle is really comfy even when squeezed. So far I have not find any hot spot. I will certainly sand the edge off the FRN but nothing is really needed, it is just my taste in smoothing everything.
Lightweight ? Not really at 108 grams for a 3 each blade. Only 5 grams less than the G10 version. This “Lightweight” version has kept its two recessed skeletonized stainless steel liners (when the Para3 Lightweight, for example, ditched them). Here, only the G-10 scales has been replaced by two beautiful thick blue scales. This color is really sheeple friendly and the wife already likes it. The black clip is also a very nice touch. This folder oozes some very toolish scents: this is a work poney !
The open construction of the Lil’ Temp also makes it very easy to keep clean. You can rinse it and quickly check for any dirt or debris, which is especially useful after outdoor or kitchen use.
The heavy-duty clip is built for work. That FRN handle can be a pocket shredder — no doubt about it. Sanding the FRN scales doesn’t change that in my experience. This is a true blue-collar folder, meant to be clipped in solid pockets and relied upon day after day.
The knife is enough compact to jump into the watch pocket !
« I bend the clip slightly on almost every knife I carry.
I usually take something wedge shaped and slide it under the clip a small amount at a time until I get the bend I like. Not everyone will like the same bend so incremental bending works best. I like very little resistance in retrieving my knife from my Right-Front-Pocket. Just enough to keep it from falling out of my pocket. YMMV.
sal » That’s a game changer and pocket savior once you have found the sweet spot of clip retention.
Once a samurai, now a wandering ronin. Once a self-defense knife, now a powerful tool. Regardless of its past, the Lil’ Temp is a true gem — thoughtfully designed, finely crafted, and made in Japan.
“The maker said it was a very difficult model to make, and for him to say that, I’m guessing it’s true. They’ve been making our knives since 1980. I worked with the Grand Father and the Father and Eric works with the son. I think we’re fortunate to be able to bring the model to you.
Sal“
Sharing the same FRN pattern as the Golden-made folders, the Lil’ Temperance features a larger pivot screw than the Para 3 and Sage 5 (made in Taichung). Despite its small size, the lack of a choil gives it plenty of usable edge.
Edge-wise, it’s impressive: the Lil’ Temp offers virtually the same cutting edge length as the larger and heavier Manix 2, all within a form factor similar to the Para 3. Its “no choil” design is reminiscent of my Tenacious, maximizing the usable blade while keeping the knife compact.
The blade length is just shorter than 3 inches with 74mm. It is not designed to reach the heart between the ribs. It is designed to work hard on various materials. It is designed as a formidable “hard use” cutting tool.
See how the poor bottle falls apart under the Lil’ Temp’s edge!
I remember seeing the Spyderco Police showcasing K390 — a knife originally oriented toward martial use, gradually drifting into more practical, tool-like applications. I’m glad to see the same evolution with the Lil’ Temperance: “Although rooted in Martial Blade Craft design, it provides reliable, full-service performance for any cutting task.”
And it doesn’t hide its abilities. Compact though it is, it’s unapologetically loud about its cutting power.
I couldn’t agree more — this is shaping up to be a truly tough, little big knife, perfect for Part 3 of my adventures. But don’t forget the Part 2, first.
The Spyderco Military C36 entered my life before the turn of the millennium. Back then it was a CPM-440V (S60V) wonder, remarkable for its emphasis on lightness. With Fred Perrin, we called it a “quick reaction tool.” At the time, it was a genuinely innovative design: a folder with a nested liner and powder metallurgy steel, both cutting-edge features. It was a real breakthrough in the cutlery world, and a true Sal Glesser design — high performance on a light frame, or as Sal, a racing car enthusiast, would put it: a fast, efficient chassis built for speed and reliability. The idea was simple: “If your son were going into the military what folding knife would you send him with?” (“Do you think we were born in peaceful time ? Put out the lights on the Age of Reason.” Justin Sullivan.)
The very thin, pointy blade and the long handle of the Military were not understood at first. I often heard: “I can break the point!” or “I don’t like the blade-to-handle ratio!”
But Sal’s vision was deliberate. The elongated handle provided a secure grip and safe operation of the knife — even when wearing gloves in harsh conditions. And that needle-like point, when not abused as a pry bar, proved to be a reliable, precise all-terrain tool. What first looked fragile was in fact purpose-built: a cutting instrument optimized for performance, not for reassuring looks. I remember ESEE (the RAT) founder Jeff Randall having written a review of him bringing a CPM440V Military in the Peruvian Rain Forest. It was requested by Sal Glesser asking Jeff to use it hard in the equatorial zone. The review has been published in Tactical Knives and on Randall site before he started his knifemaking business. Eventually Jeff Randall prefer the SERE 2000 in VG10 but: “I have zero complaints against the Military, but for the role I use a folder in, the new SERE is absolutley perfect. Actually in a tactical role, the Military is a little faster to deploy for me. I think the Military is a perfect crossover between survival and tactical, but the SERE is the perfect survival folder.” The point is, the Military’s thin tip and liner lock were never an issue — even in the rainforest, where I pushed it hard.
Thanks to Spyderco’s CQI (Constant Quality Improvement) philosophy, the Military has been continuously refined over the decades. A titanium Reeve Integral Lock version was later released, giving a sturdier feeling but at the cost of the knife’s soul: it became heavy, losing that unique spirit of lightness and agility that made the original Millie so special. For the record, G10 is already a strong, proven material — it didn’t need titanium to inspire confidence. Also Eric made his own hardchore liner lock folder: the Tenacious. Spyderco will continue to promote well-made linerlocks especially those designed by Master Ed Schempp. His Bowie is a master piece.
The Military has always been a huge folder to carry casually, and even more so in the years after 9/11, when knives became heavily restricted and socially frowned upon. Yet, the C36 still managed to slip into pop culture: in Desperate Housewives, Season 2 Episode 8 (“The Sun Won’t Set”), Hector Ramos (played by Danny Trejo) nonchalantly peels an apple with a full-serrated C36 Military. A perfect Easter egg — a knife enthusiast immediately recognizes it, while most viewers just see “a big folding knife.”
It’s funny how pop culture sometimes normalizes what legislation and public opinion try to stigmatize: Trejo’s character wasn’t using it violently, but in the most domestic, innocent way possible — peeling fruit. That contrast says a lot about how the Military can be both a serious tactical tool and, at the same time, a simple everyday companion.
Then, the Market asked for a shorter version. Sal teamed up with Eric to design and produce the Paramilitary. A shorter version with a new strong lock developed for their Martial Blade Craft Line: the Compression Lock. Then came the Paramilitary V2 or PM2 which stillis a huge success. Then the Para3 (three inches blade) came for a more compact version and even a Lightweight version which is considered by Shawn Houston as a Compression Lock Delica.
It’s striking how pop culture can normalize what legislation and public opinion often stigmatize. After 9/11, carrying a large folder like the Military became suspect, even frowned upon. Yet in Desperate Housewives (Season 2, Episode 8: “The Sun Won’t Set”), Danny Trejo’s character Hector Ramos uses a fully serrated C36 not as a weapon, but in the most innocent domestic way imaginable — peeling an apple. That small scene perfectly captures the duality of the Military: a knife designed as a serious, high-performance tactical tool, yet just as capable of being a simple, everyday companion.
“More than 25 years after its original release, the eagerly anticipated Military 2 builds on that hard-earned reputation while incorporating several significant design improvements. Instead of a LinerLock, the Military 2’s full-flatground CPM® S30V® blade is supported by Spyderco’s signature Compression Lock® mechanism, which offers greater strength and even safer one-handed operation.”Quoting Spyderco.
To make it clear: the Military 2 is based on the Paramilitary 2 with a longer blade and handle. Is that simple ? It is a PM2 XL ! 😉
Designed in 1995, the first-generation Military (Mil1) came with a single clip option: tip-down carry. That choice wasn’t arbitrary — it was tied directly to Sal Glesser’s preferred opening method, the Spyderdrop. Pinch the hole between thumb and finger, give a flick, and let the weight of the handle swing the blade open. Faster than many switchblades, elegant, and utterly reliable. My Tenacious carries that same spirit: a knife built to be deployed quickly, smoothly, and without fuss — ready for work in an instant. That opening style is less common today, as most users gravitate toward the “Spyderco flick” or “thumb flick.” But those techniques depend on tip-up carry — the clip has to be mounted at the rear of the handle, not near the pivot. That’s why the Military 2 was so eagerly awaited with its new configuration… yet curiously, it’s still sold tip-down!
“The stainless steel liners that form the foundation of the lock are larger, giving the knife increased structural strength and anchoring its four-position pocket clip, which is configurable for left or right-side, tip-up or tip-down carry. “ OK but comparing the weight between the C36 (128g) and the C36-2 (124g) the Military 2 is 4 grams lighter. (114 grammes on my kitchen scale !)
“The skeletonized liners are nested within peel-ply-textured G-10 scales to maintain a slim profile and complement its open-backed construction to reduce the knife’s overall weight.”
I have been waiting for a Sprint Run before to jump into the M2 wagon. “C36GBN15V2″ ! (For the record, the first name of the Vanilla Military 2 is just C36G2, plain edge, and the new Mil 2 Salt is C36GMCBK2” and the Paramillie Salt is “C81GBKYLMC2” !…) My two previous Millie were Gandalf with a CPM-Cruwear blade and grey handle, Ghost with a CPM-M4 blade and jade handle. This one will bear the name of Gambit.
Now this one carries a CPM 15V blade — a state-of-the-art particle metallurgy tool steel with an extremely high vanadium content, heat treated according to Shawn Houston’s specifications. And 15V is nothing short of astonishing: its cutting ability and edge retention are absolutely breathtaking. Even Sal himself acknowledged it on the forums:
“The flesh is weak.” That’s the very sentence that made me pull the trigger on the Military 2, right after ordering the Para 3 in CPM-15V. If you want to learn about 15V, this is the review to read: it’s an ultra-high-vanadium steel, heat treated according to Shawn Houston’s recipe — a carefully refined protocol that pushes the alloy to around 65 HRC. The result? Performance that is nothing short of otherworldly. Everyone in the community praises Shawn for his mastery of this steel.
So when the chance came to experience the Military 2 platform powered by such an extraordinary steel, heat treated with this level of care and “love,” it felt like a now or never opportunity. Especially knowing that Crucible, the producer of CPM-15V, has since been acquired.
The Military 2 stands as the new flagship of the Spyderco family, a knife signed by both father and son. And this Sprint Run is truly a gem — a piece that simply oozes quality.
The action on this Golden-made Military 2 is simply wonderful: smooth as silk. Mine has zero lock stick and the blade is perfectly centered. Despite being heavier than a PM2 or Para 3, the blade’s momentum makes opening and locking effortless and confident — and the same goes for closing. In fact, this big folder is as easy to operate as a Para 3, making it instantly ready for use and safely closed just as quickly. The flat profile of the handle helps it disappear in the pocket, meaning you can carry a versatile 4-inch blade while keeping it unobtrusive.
There has been some discussion about the choil evolution between V1 and V2. The Military 2 has a slightly more pronounced choil, but it doesn’t bother me at all. The knife falls naturally into my hand, opening with a smooth middle-finger flick, and its generous ergonomics unfold like origami. The squarish, gritty G10 handle fills the hand securely and confidently.
How does it feel under hard use? The compression lock can be a hotspot without gloves — my friend Pascal even got a blister cutting quinces with his PM2. Gloves can be a good precaution. This sort of discomfort is less of an issue with a backlock or liner lock. I’ve also swapped the pocket clip for a rear flat deep-pocket clip, which gives me better control around the pivot while keeping the knife accessible.
The G10 could use a touch of sanding for my taste, but it’s beautifully executed — and this time, I won’t touch it. The Military 2 “Gambit” is a true quick-reaction tool: you need just enough traction to put the blade in motion and maintain precise control over your cuts.
(I’ve installed titanium slabs on a PM2 before, and while it changed the feel of the knife, it didn’t enhance the reactive, instantaneous handling you get naturally with Gambit.)
One thing I’ve always loved on the Maxamet Para 3 — and now notice on the 15V family — is how the hot spots and angles on the spine are gently rounded. It makes the knife comfortable in prolonged use. Add to that the stonewashed finish of the blade, which gives the Military 2 a satisfying, tool-like aesthetic, and it feels immediately ready for work.
If you add a deep carry clip you got plenty of low profile carrying options.
Tip down carry for Spyderdrops.
A true Heir to the Military first version has always been the Tenacious. It’s Eric’s answer to his father’s design, and what a brilliant evolution it is. The knife is a joy to Spyderdrop, and it feels incredible in hand during hard push cuts.
For the first time, the Gambit will be my Millie carried tip-up, and I can already tell it will change how I interact with the knife every day.
The clip doesn’t get in the way when I grip the knife firmly, thanks to the relatively long handle.
It also features a larger lanyard hole, similar to the Para 2, which adds versatility without compromising ergonomics.
The Gambit is designed as a worker, not a weapon — a reliable, high-performance 4-inch folder. While it’s not made for city carry, its design has always proven incredibly handy in the kitchen.
The Military 2 feels right at home in the woods, handling all chores during a hike or around the campfire — just as reliably as its father, the M1.
I’ve also noticed that the screws are now flat on this design, unlike the original Millie. (The Para 3 still has rounded screws.) I particularly love the large pivot screw on the Military 2 — bigger than many Spyderco pivots, including the Yojumbo and PM2 — giving the knife a solid, confident feel.
The Military 2 Sprint Run is the new flagship — the culmination of decades of evolution on an already classic big folder.
A few things to keep in mind: the original Military V1 isn’t a knife to leave by the roadside. As Brock O. Lee pointed out — and I agree — the M1 still has some subtle advantages:
The broad, curved clip melts into the hand.
Chamfering on the handle is excellent.
A smooth back with no compression-lock cutout hot spot.
The M2, however, is a strong evolution, built on the winning formula of the PM2. The compression lock is as strong as ever, though it can create hot spots between the thumb and index finger. Thankfully, the handle chamfering can be refined by hand, and the clip now allows for custom solutions.
This Sprint Run also introduces a steel that is extremely hard to beat in strength and edge retention. While I’m already enchanted by the PARA 3 in 15V, this “Mama Bear” folder brings massive cutting power in a light, flat, pocketable package. In terms of design and material, it’s an apex in modern cutlery.
Now the real testing begins — this review will be updated as I put it through its paces.
I don’t need a strong clip on such a long knife as it will rest gently in the pocket. Also a strong clip can ruin my pocket by shredding it. This copycat of Lynch is just perfect in term of retention.
Now I need to convex the edge a little. The blade cannot go through the plastic bottle’s butt.
it could not reach the middle of the butt where the plastic is at its thickest… when the convexed Para3 or the Zero Ground Nilakka went through it.
Diamonds are a Bear’s best friends! You can see the line where I carefully pass the diamonds to slowly convex the edge. But CPM-15V, in my experience and with my tools, demands patience and tenacity.
To be updated and continued!
There will be blood ! Now it is christen. That blade is a hair popping sharp razor right out of the box.
After deshouldering the edge, the geometry has improved dramatically — we’re really getting somewhere. On this long blade, the first third is incredibly precise, almost like carrying a scalpel from a smaller knife. With the Military 2, you truly have a highly versatile tool in your pocket.
I’ve loved the Military V1 for almost 30 years — it has long been one of my favorite workhorse folders. The CPM-15V blade, heat treated following Shawn Houston’s recipe, is just the icing on the bear. This Military 2 may well be the ultimate expression of the entire BBB 15V line.
Personally, I see this model as the pinnacle of an era: the most emblematic Spyderco design, paired with state-of-the-art heat-treated steel (Shawn wasn’t alone — big-name beta testers were involved), a proven geometry, and an incredibly versatile blade shape.
In short, I couldn’t miss it — especially since it’s a Sprint Run and, with the end of Crucible, everything about it feels historic.
So, “Gambit”, aka “C36GBN15V2” is really the “Mother Of All Bears” !
Jumping on the Para® 3 Lightweight Brown CPM® 15V® Sprint Run® wagon was an easy choice after a month of watching our American friends review this new CPM-15V batch.
Following the Manix 2 release two years ago, showcased in the Reveal 11, and a Paramilitary Brown version, here is the chance to test this remarkable steel on a lightweight platform: the Para 3 in brown FRN.
For record CPM 15V is “Boasting almost a 15 percent vanadium content, this remarkable material offers the highest wear resistance of any cold work tool steel available today. The full-flat-ground, satin-finished blade of this knife is further enhanced by a specialized heat-treating protocol developed by acclaimed custom knifemaker Shawn Houston. The result is a blade that offers extreme sharpness and unparalleled edge retention.”
Shawn Houston is known as Big Brown Bear on youtube and his skills in metallurgy and knifemaking as drawn the attention of the Glesser’s family.
In 2018, he has written on the Spyderco Forums that request: “Sal, Can we get CPM 15v? “I like this steel. It’s easier to work with then Maxamet and Rex121. Takes a killer edge and seems to be more stable then s110v.“
Larrin Thomas even answered: “You guys are crazy. But with Spyderco anything is possible.”
And in 2022 a first Spyderco knife designed by Shawn Houston in 15V with his own heat treat protocol was proposed. Eric’s Manix 2.
“The CPM 15V Sprint run was supposed to be a surprise treat. Eric wanted to share the CPM 15V with the custom heat treatment I worked on for my folder design. His idea was to use a standard model so people can get their hands on the steel. Which I thought was really, REALLY cool of him to do that. Working with Crucible and Niagara Specialty Metal we were able to select a specific melt of the CPM 15V that would respond best to this specially developed custom heat treatment. So, Eric and Sal really went all the way on this, no other production knife company on the planet would do something like this. Eric and Sal are one of a kind. You guys need to understand this is very unique having actual knife/steel/sharpening/edge people running a knife company that can cater to enthusiasts. Originally, I was given options for different handle scales for the Manix but the most important priority was to get the CPM 15V Manix out as soon as possible so it didn’t make any sense to use exotic scale materials. G10 is a great material to work with and brown g10 was selected because “Big Brown Bear” aka Triplebhandmade. (Me) I am aware as many others that brown g10 is not unique to this model. But the color of the handle scales and the handle scale material are irrelevant to edge performance and the most important priority was getting this out to you guys as soon as possible. Looks like the price is great too, if we used carbon fiber etc cost would have been higher. So, I hope you guys can respect that. The folder collaboration design was being pushed back due to production capacity being completely full at Golden. Please understand that I’ve been very persistent at wanting the knife made in Golden come **** or high water; I would wait until thestars burned out. Spyderco has been very busy increasing the size of their golden factory to meet the insane demand of the current knife industry after the global pandemic. Keep in mind, when a new product comes through the factory, they have to train the staff on how to make them, and what the best procedures are for creating that specific model in high volume with maximum efficiency. So, there is hidden effort when new designs come through at Spyderco. Folks need to remember if we want this folder made in Golden (my favorite factory) we have to be patient. My dream is to have a Golden folder we can all experience together.
I’ve gotten a chance to meet the people from the Golden factory I must say I’m even more excited about the idea of it being made in Golden. I’ve talked to the people that do grinding and heat treatment and there’s just something special about being able to talk to the folks that make your collaboration knife design. So, I keep pretty quiet about the folder because I don’t feel it’s necessary to see get people excited about something that doesn’t have a clearly set date of exactly when it can be expected and I don’t want to put any undue pressure on Spyderco because they’ve been working very very hard over the past couple years to get things that sometimes people take for granted and expect to magically appear on the shelves to buy. While I haven’t been posting in this thread everyday, I really appreciate you guys making sure to let Spyderco know this is something you want. So, thanks for always updating this thread and talking about it on social media.I really think you guys will like this knife and I can’t wait to get one in my pocket one day.
-Shawn“
Now this is new batch including Microjimbo, Yojumbo, Yojimbo2, Native, Military 2, Para3 G10 and Para3 Lightweight.
Like all its brothers and sisters it boast the BBB logo proving that the blade has followed Shawn Houston heat treatment.
In his excellent vidéo Shawn share his first impressions and also check the hardness of his Para3 and the result is 65.4 HRC ! Impressive !
Framed from his video: he performed five separate hardness tests just to be sure. It’s well known that Shawn Houston’s special heat treatment — refined over years and tested by renowned professionals — brings out the quintessence of CPM-15V, elevating its performance to exceptional levels.
“Well, most heat treatment protocols are for tooling, like the ones in datasheets — not really optimized for things like edge stability.” — Shawn Houston, on his own heat treatment
In practical tests, Pete from the Cedric and Ada Gear and Outdoors was able to cut through a rope 2,000 times without compromising the edge.
The action on my new Para 3 is perfectly smooth. I notice a little lock sticking but this is not an issue in my book.
And smooth enough that nothing unscrews on it — the blade closes like glass, effortlessly and precisely.
My Para 3 arrived perfectly centered, but with some burrs on the scales. (A burr is a raised edge or small piece of material that remains attached to a workpiece after a modification process.)
You can feel these tiny imperfections under your finger along the FRN edges.
I have “deburr” it with some diamonds rod. Nothing fancy but now the handle is fine. I don’t remember having that issue on my previous Para 3 review.
The edge is even.
I don’t see myself working on a convex edge on this one. Not for the moment.
The sharpness is high and that blade is a hair popping sharp razor right out of the box.
I have already cut my self with its very pointy point. My Para 3 is baptized !
Now it is truly mind.
It is said that CPM-15V loves leather for a crispy edge. (S90V or M398 for example don’t care about stropping…)
I’m curious how its 68 grams will compete with my Maxamet Para 3 G10 (98 grams) — sturdy yet smooth as velvet.
According to Spyderco:
“The term ‘lightweight,’ or the use of injection-molded handle components on a Spyderco folder, isn’t just about how the knife tips the scale. It’s about taking full advantage of the remarkable properties of FRN and FRCP, as well as our decades of experience as an industry leader in their use.”
So yes, this is a “light” saber.
The edge appears ground thinner than on the notoriously brittle Maxamet blade. Both blades receive special attention: the spine is smooth under the thumb, and the edges are expertly bevelled.
The chance to have such a steel on a lightweight folder would make it a great hunting knife like the Michael Walker ZDP-189 was in his days. The game’s fur is very abbrasive. CPM-15V could be even stronger than ZDP189 on the joints, more permissive.
Ericasedc has made a video about that:
She seems really happy with her Para 3 since she has received it. You can see all the videos she has made on her channel about the Para 3 15V.
Anyway, going in the woods equipped with a Tenacious CPM M4 and a Para 3 in 15V would be a great combo nowadays.
Now that I can carry the mighty CPM-15V steel in my pocket, I’m eager to test its performance over the long run. Stay tuned for updates on this page or in another chapter.
Having a featherweight folder equipped with such a formidable blade and steel is uncanny — it packs remarkable power in a pocket-sized package. I still remember fitting the Maxamet blade on my red FRN Para 3 just to experience that sensation of a powerful engine on a lightweight platform.
This Para 3 Sprint Run is already a triumph, offering the chance to experience a remarkable steel crafted by passionate knifeaholics.
As mentioned, I have no intention of convexing the edge for now — I’m trusting Shawn’s expertise. Unlike AEB-L, which can be thinned while remaining strong, CPM-15V is packed with carbides, so I’ll stick with the angle specified by Spyderco and Shawn, which is already thinner than Maxamet.
But now, the real fun begins: testing! Spoiler: the combination of geometry and steel makes it an excellent whittler — the blade cuts deep, and the wood feels incredibly smooth under the cut.
Final word of this review are from Shawn Houston who was quoting and answering to Todd from Scienceofsharp.com about 15V (as Todd’s goal is to increase our understanding of the role of carbides in cutting performance and how different sharpening techniques “interact” with the carbide): ““tremendous pleasure in using an extremely sharp knife or tool (and satisfaction when you have sharpened it yourself). Even though it is often a fleeting experience” That’s the “idée fixe” of it all. The little smile and feeling of elation when the edge lasers through material with zero effort. The stones, geometries, steels, heat treatments and the techniques. Chasing those fleeting moments of joy with high performance and riding the line between madness and clarity in trying to understand at the most intricate levels how it all really works. An insatiable quest.“
“The Edge is a Ghost. Always changing. Dying (dulling) being reborn (sharpened) split personality (angles and geometry changing).
Think of the edge as gas in a vehicle. It runs out of gas and you put in more gas. We provide the format, materials, design for use, variety to avoid boredom and create interest, but the edge is your creation. The result of your understanding, education, experience and practice.”
Sal
“CPM 15V is a very difficult steel to manufacturer, so it may not always be available in the future. Crucible Industries LLC went to great lengths to produce the steel, it puts a great amount of wear and tear on the ceramic refractory designed to hold the super heated liquid steel during melting. This is necessary to dissolve the vanadium carbides to the very fine sizes that we see in the finished product. It’s quite a marvel that’s not often appreciated. 15V is basically the commercial limit for how much carbon and vandium they can get in a steel for production sizes batches. The benefits of this to the end user combined with excellent heat treatment is a enjoyable, lasting cutting experience that also touches up at the edge nicely with proper abrasives and sharpening experience.”
I’ve been tenacious — truly tenacious — in resisting the C122 Tenacious, even though I’d had my eye on that folder since 2008. After 17 years of flirtation, I finally ordered one. Why the delay? Its main weakness was always the less-than-stellar steel compared to the high-end knives I already owned.
Now, the CPM-M4 version is here to quench that long-standing thirst.
I don’t have much memory of a CPM-M4 serrated edge, except with another Eric Glesser design: the Dodo Exclusivefrom Blade HQ (C80GM4S). The Dodo was a real wood slasher — its S-shaped blade trimmed vines deeper and faster than almost any other, and the comfortable handle was perfect for power cuts.
Opportunities to play with a serrated CPM-M4 edge have been rare — until now. Here it is.
Back in 2008, when the Tenacious have been released it was a success.
Eric Glesser’s design was appealing to many for a simple reason: it was a well-thought-out, tough workhorse knifeavailable for around €30 (or less). A true blue-collar tool — built to be used and abused, like a modern-day Buck 110 for the pocket.
The best thing about the Tenacious was that it offered a thick, sturdy, well-built liner lock at a time when liner locks were falling out of fashion. Easy to display, easy to use, this no-choil, long-edge, compact working folder from Eric Glesser was a hit — and one of the best ways to catch the Spydervirus.
Now there is a FRN version in CPM S35VN. But it is as heavy as the G10 version and I’m not really a fan of FRN… Even if I absolutely love the FRN scales of my Serrated Chaparral.
“I’ve thrown it, dropped it, batoned wood as thick as my wrist, chipped the edge multiple times (didn’t think 8cr13mov could chip, thought it was too soft but was wrong), I’ve left in outside ONCE in the rain overnight because I forgot I placed it on my front porch the previous day, I have spine whacked it (just don’t, I most likely have an impulse problem… lol … same problem that causes me to buy a lot of knives) I’ve dug holes, stabbed the ground to cut weed roots out, and much much more...
I think by now you get the point. I treated the tenacious as if I got it for free and had 1000 more to replace it if something happened. I treated this knife as if I hated it.
The result? 4 years later, the Tenacious opens smoother than it ever has, not a speck of rust since I purchased it, I have oiled the blade a couple times but I can guarantee it was less than 20 times total in the last 4 years, lockup is a bit less solid, BARELY any blade play from side to side, even less blade play from front to back, g10 scales look smoothed over and scarred, but to be honest there is still plenty of traction. All in all, this knife is much more than what most of you need from a folder.”
My Persistence experience was excellent as described in my 2012 review (green words lead to link) but eventually I was disappointed with their steel. 8Cr13MoV can get sharp but lose sharpness much too fast for my uses. It was frustratring. I still got 8Cr13MoV knives like the Clipitool which is a great oyster knife. 8Cr13MoV is tough for a stainless steel, no surprise it was chosen for the Tenacious line.
The Tenacious is a sturdy well made liner lock folder with a super tool steel blade.
“This remarkable expression of the Tenacious® elevates this best-selling design to all-new heights with a blade crafted from American-made CPM M4 tool steel. Produced by the particle metallurgy process, CPM M4’s sophisticated alloy composition, high vanadium content, and extremely fine grain structure give it exceptional wear resistance and toughness-properties that translate to outstanding edge retention and impact resistance in knife blades. This knife’s full-flat-ground blade is available in both PlainEdge™ and CombinationEdge™ formats and is housed in a handle featuring brown peel-ply-textured G-10 scales.“
I have written many reviews about that fabulous alloy CPM-M4 it has never disappointed me and since I have sold my CPM-M4 Military and kept my Yojimbo 2 and Mantra 2 (reviewed and sharpened by JD) and use them hard, I know it is reliable and get a nice patina.
A lil’oil will prevent rust. CPM M4 is not 52100 and the patina will come slowly after cutting some lemons… “CPM M4 has good edge holding, sharpening ease, toughness, strength, and is not a rust monster…” to quote Rangodash.
Now a blade is 1/3 steel, 1/3 Heat Treatment and 1/3 geometry.
The Coke butt bottle pushing cutting test has been done with the factory edge right out of the box. It is thin behind the edge. It’s a good blade thickness for more nuanced jobs, but there is added strength from the thicker spine.
The knife sliced right in the middle were the materiel is thicker. This is just outstanding !
There are a great geometry and a thin edge on that tough CPM-M4 blade. The result is a sturdy matter separator.
It is not an exploit to cut into some tin can but the same “shallow”, “non snaggy” kind of serrations as the Chaparral made it easy.
Again, this is a “performance oriented” knife. The blade is not too thick like some “tactical” toys. It is made to perform not to show off.
“For notching, serrated edges work great. Feathersticking, maybe, maybe not. Serrated edges are ground on the show side, so they actually work better when used left-handed for cuts like that. I carry a serrated K390 Police4 all the time for rough work. It goes through little volunteer elm trees like a chainsaw. A SharpMaker makes it a breeze to maintain the edge.” to quote Yablanowitz.
The liner lock is thick in the same spirit of Gayle Bradley’s folders. The knife opens with a loud KLAK! — no blade play in any direction. The detent is strong but slightly “elastic,” meaning the blade moves a little before the release/tipping point engages. This makes it very secure, with no risk of accidental opening. I’ve noticed the same elasticity on the titanium version of the Tenacious. It’s important to note: this is not a weak detent — the blade won’t open without a deliberate, serious force.
Using the knife in Spyderdrop mode, a flick of the wrist catches the blade in the Spyderhole with no issue. Closing remains perfectly secure. There’s a tiny squeak out of the box, but a few drops of nano oil should mute it. The action isn’t buttery smooth like a compression lock on ball bearings, but after a bit of breaking-in and running-in, it will be wonderful.
The solid clip is delivered mounted in Tip Down carry, which suits well this knife for the Spyderco Drop featured on the Military 1 which got the same kind of “around the pivot” clip.
I have no intention of using tip-up carry or a deep-carry clip. This knife is a tool, meant for easy access rather than a stealthy edge. The Tenacious is always noticeable in the pocket, but that sturdy clip guarantees quick availability — reminding me of Massad Ayoob’s teachings.
Spyderdropping is an extremely fast way to get the blade into action — faster than many switchblades. Sal Glesser was already demonstrating this skill almost 30 years ago: grab the knife by the Spyderhole and SCHLAK! — it’s open and ready to cut.
The Tenacious features full steel liners, unlike the nested liners on the Military line. There are no backspacers, making it easy to clean under running water. At 120 grams, it’s not a lightweight folder — I appreciate a bit of heft on a working tool. (For reference, the new titanium version is 93 grams.)
Notice how perfectly centered the blade is right out of the box. The quality control on this “made in China” folder is impressively high.
(Sal’s Titanium Catbird (only 200 were made) next to Eric’s Tenacious.)
Eric and Sal have taken their time with the Byrd Line and their budget line to get the best from a family of makers in China. The Glessers have moved slowly but steadily, developing a trustworthy and excellent relationship with the knifemakers there.
To quote JustinRose40 on the forums in 2011: “Yes, every time I show someone my Tenacious I have to say “well it’s made in China but it’s not a China Knife, it’s still a Spyderco”. To which they usually say something like, “yeah I could tell that as soon as you handed to me”.
Since 2011, China has made huge leaps in knife manufacturing quality, and this steady improvement is clearly noticeable in the “new” rendition of the venerable Tenacious.
On Eric’s designs, there’s sometimes no choil, but you can notice a clever feature: a “proto-flipper” that acts as a quillon or guard to protect your fingers in case the lock ever failed.
Since 2008, I haven’t heard of any critical lock failures on the Tenacious or the larger Resilience. The Tenacious has earned its legendary status for a reason.
Another Eric design with an excellent blade-to-handle ratio is the Mantra 2, which uses a flipper. (I’m not a fan of that little opening hole — dirt always collects there!) Still, it’s a great design. The Mantra 1, with an opening hole, feels like the Taichung-made “uncle” of the M4 Tenacious.
The peel-ply-textured G10 scales don’t need sanding; they’re well balanced and won’t shred pockets. The brown color makes it feel less threatening, in my book.
Let’s put it to use while the satin blade is still silver.
The knife bites into wood like no tomorrow. The serrated CPM-M4 edge is a joy to use — it goes deep and steady, putting a smile on my face every time.
Blast from the past: the last combo-edge/semi-serrated knife I used was over 20 years ago — a Pre-Production D2 AFCK. As you can see, it’s been heavily used, and its geometry, steel, and blade-to-handle ratio aren’t nearly as refined as the Tenacious.
That macro shot shows the very smooth way to go from chisel ground serrations to plain edge.
“Serrated edges aren’t for everyone, and you may not like them, but you’ve got to get at least one just to try! Keep it around for nasty work, wet abrasive rope, zip-ties, yardwork, or playtime like in the pool, or at the lake or beach. Not to mention fishing duties.”to quote Benben.
The difference in cutting efficiency between a saber grind and a full flat grind is obvious. I don’t need to tiptoe around it — the advantage is clear.
Now let’s compare the Tenacious with various folders and fixed blades.
The Tenacious got a better blade/handle ratio than the Paramilitary 2 and a longer blade for a shorter handle. This is one key of the success of that design.
Since I play with Bushcraft here a nice combo to go in the wood. The Proficient is a masterpiece.
And with the ultra solide Boker in Magnacut. The 8,6 centimeter long blade of the Tenacious is generous edge wise.
Of course, I’ll strop that partially serrated blade on leather — no fear at all. I have my method for serrations, using the corner of the leather pad.
Maintaining the combo edge won’t be an issue; I’ll keep it sharp with cornered ceramic and jade stones.
So what do you get for €139 — the price I paid at the Coutellerie Champenoise? I’m really happy with my purchase. I plan to use the Tenacious a lot and on anything, simply for the pleasure of testing it on various materials. This knife isn’t afraid of plastic, wood, food, bones, cardboard, or aluminum.
This CPM-M4 version is set to show the full potential of one of the beefier EDC knives, especially with its serrated half-edge carved from super tool steel. Over 17 years, the Tenacious has proven it can withstand a lot of abuse.
The CPM-M4 Tenacious is not only a workhorse but a warhorse, like the pictured Adamas. I can easily imagine any soldier being glad to have such a reliable knife at this budget.
It’s slightly larger than small pocket knives, but smaller than the oversized ones some carry just to show off. The Tenacious would make an excellent day-hiking knife — a folder ready for the great outdoors. I’d take it on a trip to Africa or on a photo safari in the natural parks of Tuscany.
(this will often dull the blade’s edge with a little shining spot. Not here… Thanks to the serrations again ! )
This CPM-M4 Tenacious is sold at roughly double the price of the standard version, but in my opinion, it’s a rare chance to have this alloy on that knife. CPM-M4 pushes the boundaries of reliability and is a real pleasure to keep razor-sharp.
CPM-M4 will not chip and stays sharp for long. It’s a steel that has been used in cutting competitions. While Tuff Glideand various oils can keep it spotless, I prefer the protection of a gentle natural patina.
For twice the price of the vanilla Tenacious, this upgraded version delivers another level of performance in terms of toughness and edge retention.
“Old school cool with the Walker lock and satin finish. Well done Eric Glesser!” to quote Clay H on the Forums. My brown Tenacious looks gorgeous in its “beautility”, practically begging to be used across all terrains — sand, rain, or more. All in all, this beater is a beefed-up workhorse, built to be used hard and carried proudly.
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