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Spyderco Manix 2 MagnaMax – First Glimpse at The Interceptor.

06/07/2026 nemosandman 2 Comments

As with some of my previous Spyderco reviews, I would like to begin with a brief disclaimer. Spyderco kindly provided this knife for evaluation at my request as part of the Spyderco Ambassador Program. As always, receiving a sample does not influence my opinions. Every review published on Nemo Knives Review reflects my own experience after carrying and using the knife.

Goose: “You can shut the gate on this one, Maxie… it’s the duck’s guts!”
Barry (MFP mechanic): “Yeah, she’s the last of the V8s! She sucks nitro… with Phase 4 heads, twin overhead cams, 600 horsepower through the wheels! She’s meanness put to music and the bitch is born to run!”
Goose: “He’s in a coma, man!”

— From the screenplay of Mad Max (1979), written by George Miller and James McCausland.

First Impressions

The very first thing that struck me wasn’t the impeccable fit and finish—those are exactly what I’ve come to expect from Spyderco. It was the weight. Those days I mainly review Lightweight FRN folders but there is something about that Manix 2…

This MagnaMax version weighs 136 grams on my kitchen scale, roughly 20 grams heavier than both of my previous Manix 2 models. The additional mass is noticeable in hand, but rather than feeling cumbersome, it reinforces the impression that this is an exceptionally robust working knife. It feels dense and built to withstand years of hard use.
Thanks to a hint from Robin, the mystery behind the extra weight turned out to be quite simple: this Manix 2 features full stainless steel liners. Unlike some previous versions that use skeletonized liners to reduce weight, these are solid throughout, adding approximately 20 grams to the knife. The difference is immediately noticeable in hand, giving the MagnaMax version an exceptionally robust, confidence-inspiring feel.
So I went back through the Manix’s history to understand why.

Back to the Origins

Looking back to 2004, Spyderco released two remarkably robust folders. First came the Chinook, designed by Master-at-Arms James Keating around a Bowie-style blade capable of powerful back cuts. Then, following the same philosophy but with Spyderco’s signature leaf-shaped blade, came the C95 Manix.
Few folding knives have blurred the line between folder and fixed blade as convincingly as the Spyderco Manix. When the original C95 was introduced, it quickly earned a reputation for almost overbuilt strength. Designed to withstand relentless abuse, it inspired confidence in the harshest conditions and became a favorite among users who valued absolute reliability. Its only real compromises were a slight amount of vertical blade play inherent to its lock design and its considerable weight. At 154 grams, the original Manix felt reassuringly robust, but it was anything but discreet in the pocket.
My friend Brian, a retired U.S. Navy helicopter pilot and avid hunter, has carried the original C95 Manix as his primary EDC since its release in 2004.
“My Manix goes everywhere with me. It’s the first knife I put on in the morning and the last one I take off at night,” he wrote to me yesterday.

Five years after introducing the caged Ball Bearing Lock on the Dodo, Eric Glesser chose not to simply refresh the Manix, but to rethink it from the ground up. Introduced in 2009, the Manix 2 was conceived around a deceptively simple challenge: retain everything that made the original so exceptionally strong while reducing its weight by roughly ten percent. Achieving that balance required far more than trimming a few grams. The knife received a redesigned handle with more refined ergonomics, creating a tool that cut better, carried easier, and felt noticeably more natural in hand without sacrificing the confidence-inspiring durability that had defined the original Manix.

The heart of this transformation was the lock itself. The original Ball Bearing Lock, invented by Sal Glesser to satisfy the demanding standards of MBC (Martial Blade Craft), was already one of the strongest and most innovative locking systems in the folding knife world. Eric Glesser refined that concept even further by developing and patenting the Caged Ball Bearing Lock specifically for the Manix 2. By enclosing the ball bearing within a precision-machined polymer cage, Spyderco was able to use a smaller bearing while preserving the lock’s remarkable strength. The result was a mechanism that operated more smoothly, improved everyday ergonomics, simplified assembly, and remained exceptionally resistant to wear—all while making the design significantly more difficult to copy.

In 2014 in Spyderco Catalogue it is written:

“Manix2
Full skeletonized stainless steel liners give the G-10-handled Manix2 exceptional strength and heft...

The Full Liner Mystery

Spyderco has used both full and skeletonized liners throughout the Manix 2’s history, depending on the production period and model. Although skeletonized liners were used on many versions to reduce weight, the standard Black G10 Manix 2 had already returned to full stainless steel liners before the introduction of MagnaMax. Rather than marking a return to full liners, the MagnaMax version continues that robust, hard-use philosophy.

(Screenshot from Nick Shabazz video published eight years ago. )
Nick himself noted, on the day the video was released, “This video is an antique, one of the oldest in my backlog,” suggesting that the knife had actually been filmed several years earlier.

Robin (AKA Ramonade) later commented on the Spyderco Forum, “On Shabazz’s video, it’s from 2015, just like mine.”
Thanks again to Robin for taking the time to disassemble his Manix 2—and, more importantly, for putting it back together without launching the spring or the Ball Bearing Lock across the room!
Then again, that’s probably no surprise. He’s a talented young knifemaker with a very promising future ahead of him.

(Two Manix 2s disassembled by Robin to verify the manufacturing dates hidden beneath the blades, helping make this review as accurate as possible.)

Robin also pointed out another important detail: the Manix 2 Salt G-10 in MagnaCut is not a Sprint Run but a regular production model. It therefore demonstrates that Spyderco has also used skeletonized liners on a standard production Manix 2, rather than limiting them exclusively to Sprint Runs. This further could highlight that liner construction has varied depending on the specific model and intended purpose, rather than following a single rule across the entire Manix 2 family.

Spyderco has used both full and skeletonized liners throughout the Manix 2’s history, depending on the production period and model. Although skeletonized liners were used on many versions to reduce weight, the standard Black G10 Manix 2 had already returned to full stainless steel liners before the introduction of MagnaMax. Rather than marking a return to full liners, the MagnaMax version continues that robust, hard-use philosophy.
But I do love the extra heft and the bottom-heavy balance of this MagnaMa(ni)x. It anchors the knife securely in my palm, making it feel incredibly stable and controlled during use. Rather than feeling bulky, the additional weight inspires confidence.

Looking back at the discussion, I realize my perspective was strongly influenced by the Manix Sprint Runs I own and use most often—namely that 2009 S90V Sprint Run and the new Salt G-10. Several Spyderco Forum members rightly pointed out that, for the standard G-10 Manix 2, full liners have actually been the norm for years. That’s a fair observation and an important distinction.
It is also worth mentioning that some members suggested that full liners may slightly reduce manufacturing costs by eliminating the skeletonizing process.

Yes I know, I may sound like I’m splitting hairs, but this whole Manix 2 weight story is actually quite fascinating. After all, one of Eric Glesser’s original goals in 2009, when replacing the original Manix’s back lock with the Ball Bearing Lock, was to reduce the knife’s overall weight. Spyderco’s 2014 Product Guide even described the standard G10 Manix 2 as featuring skeletonized stainless steel liners. That’s what makes the full stainless steel liners—and the additional heft—of the MagnaMax version particularly intriguing.
To me, it gives the impression that Spyderco was willing to prioritize strength over shaving off a few extra grams. Whether that decision was driven purely by design philosophy, manufacturing considerations, or a combination of both is something only Spyderco could answer.

Anyway, skeletonized liners date back to at least 2009—my own C101CFP has them.

Here’s my summer 2009 C101CFP (announced by Eric Glesser on August 5, 2009), pictured alongside the MagnaMax and the MagnaCut. As discussed in the article.

Because there are fewer hidden cavities beneath the scales, full liners also offer fewer places for moisture and debris to accumulate, potentially reducing the risk of hidden corrosion over the long term.
Since those liners are left uncoated, they are easy to inspect, clean, and apply a light coat of oil whenever needed. (Of course, coated skeletonized liners, such as those found on the Salt G-10, are also a premium solution—they simply reflect a different design philosophy.)
It all reinforces my impression that this Manix 2 MagnaMax was designed first and foremost as a dependable workhorse.

I remember this excellent BushcraftUK review of the CPM-M4 Manix 2, where the author Xavierdoc from Wales wrote:
“I don’t know how long the lock mechanism will resist the onslaught of pocket crud and the skeletonised liners are a potential blood/muck magnet.”

It raises an interesting point. Skeletonized liners undoubtedly save weight, but they also create additional cavities where mud, blood, wood dust or other debris can accumulate. Full liners may be heavier, yet they could prove easier to clean after messy outdoor tasks—something that hunters and game processors might particularly appreciate.

(The S90V is in the middle of the picture, MagnaMax on the right, Magnacut on the left)

A Blade That Speaks of Confidence

Looking more closely, I noticed that the blade tapers more aggressively toward the tip than my original S90V Manix 2 and is even thinner than the MagnaCut version. That finer tip should provide greater precision for detailed cutting tasks while still aiming to preserve the strength expected from the Manix platform.
More importantly, this refined blade geometry reflects the confidence that Eric Glesser, Sal Glesser, and the Spyderco team have placed in the remarkable capabilities of MagnaMax.

Edited July 7: As forum member Wartstein rightly pointed out, a finer tip also represents a trade-off. If the Manix is viewed as a hard-use folder, a thinner tip could potentially limit some of its abuse tolerance. Whether MagnaMax’s toughness fully compensates for this change remains to be seen in long-term use.

Lock-Up and Action

Like all my Manix 2s, everything feels perfectly assembled, with the precise action and rock-solid lock-up that have made the Manix 2 one of Spyderco’s most respected designs. There is no blade play whatsoever, yet the blade remains perfectly centered and drop-chute when unlocked. The only difference I immediately noticed is that the Ball Bearing Lock feels slightly stiffer than on my older Manix 2s, most likely due to a stronger spring ? Since the knife is brand new, I’ll reserve my final judgment until it has been properly broken in. At the moment, the Ball Bearing Lock spring feels just as stiff as on my MagnaCut G10 Salt.
A stronger spring makes the action feel more deliberate and virtually eliminates any gravity-assisted opening. A wrist flick is still possible, in reverse grip, but it takes significantly more commitment than with my other older Manix 2s. Whether this is intentional or simply the result of a brand-new spring remains to be seen, but it certainly reinforces the impression of a knife built with security and reliability in mind.

I know some users would prefer a lighter spring tension, and some even trim or replace the spring to make the lock easier to operate. That’s entirely a matter of personal preference.

I’ve also never really managed to close a Manix 2 without pulling back both sides of the lock, unlike all of my Axis-Lock Benchmades. My Adamas, for example, have an exceptionally smooth Axis Lock, and even my old AFCK (the Axis Lock version) is much more easier to operate pulling back only one side of the lock.
I remember some self-defense instructors criticizing Benchmade’s original AXIS Lock on the BM710, arguing that an opponent might be able to disengage the lock during a struggle by pulling back on the lock bar. Whether or not that concern was realistic, it was an interesting argument at the time.

The Manix 2, originally developed with Spyderco’s Martial Blade Craft philosophy in mind, has always felt deliberately more secure to me. The Ball Bearing Lock demands a more deliberate action, making accidental disengagement seem considerably less likely.
As for me, I like the reassuring feeling that my knife is not going to open accidentally in my pocket. In a way, it reminds me of shifting gears in an old Porsche Carrera with a manual gearbox—you don’t do it with hesitation, you do it with purpose. That’s exactly how I approach the Ball Bearing Lock on this MagnaMa(ni)x.
The downside is that it can be a bit more challenging to operate with wet or greasy fingers. That’s probably one of the reasons why some users replace the factory polymer cage with an aftermarket aluminum or titanium version, which often provides a more positive grip. Fortunately, the Manix 2 is one of the most customizable production folders on the market, with an impressive range of third-party parts available.

Small Details That Matter

Now, from a purely cosmetic standpoint, the blade appears to have received a slightly more pronounced tumble, resulting in an almost stonewashed finish. It seems a little less pronounced than on the CPM 15V Sprint Run, but the resemblance is striking.
Really, this is a beautiful blade !

Another pleasant surprise was the jimping. I immediately noticed that the edges of the thumb ramp and choil jimping have been subtly beveled. It’s a small detail, but one that makes a noticeable difference in comfort without sacrificing grip. Ironically, this is one of the first modifications I usually make myself with a diamond rod. This time, Spyderco has already done it for me. 🙂

So, what do we have so far ? A slightly heavier Manix 2, a strong Ball Bearing Lock spring, flawless action, and impeccable fit and finish and great attention to details. So far, what’s not to like?

One small modification I made was to lightly sand the clip-side G-10 with 400-grit sandpaper. I prefer a smoother texture there to avoid turning the knife into a pocket shredder. I do that on every knives.

Personally, I’d liked my G-10 a little more refined (smooth like the Knifecenter Exclusives), especially since the Manix already provides plenty of grip through its excellent jimping. Softening only the clip-side scale slightly doesn’t compromise control for me—it simply makes the knife much kinder to my pockets, period. 😉

And my wife is grateful too… it means one more pair of trousers survives the Manix. 😉

But this knife isn’t just about that.
The real story begins with the steel itself.

Meet MagnaMax

Now about MagnaMax which is core of this release:
As of July 2026, if we set aside Spyderco’s Mule Team test platform, the MagnaMa(ni)x stands as the first true production folder to introduce this remarkable steel to the broader knife community.
MagnaMax is one of the newest high-performance stainless steels developed by metallurgist Dr. Larrin Thomas. Building upon the innovations introduced with MagnaCut, its goal is to push the balance between toughness, wear resistance, edge retention, and corrosion resistance even further. Rather than maximizing a single property, MagnaMax aims to deliver exceptional overall performance, making it particularly attractive for hard-use folding knives. It represents the latest step in the evolution of modern powder metallurgy steels designed specifically for real-world cutting performance.

		Chromium (Cr)	Vanadium (V)	Molybdenum (Mo)	Tungsten	Cobalt (Co)	Niobium (Nb)	Nitrogen (N)
MagnaMax	~1.15%	~10.5%	~3.5%	~2.0%	~1.0%	~7.5%	~1.5%	–
MagnaCut	1.15%	10.7%	4.0%	2.0%	–	–	2.0%	0.20%
CPM S90V	2.30%	14.0%	9.0%	1.0%	–	–	–	–
K390	2.47%	4.2%	9.0%	–	2.0%	2.0%	–	–

MagnaMax – Designed to deliver an exceptional balance of toughness, wear resistance, edge retention, and corrosion resistance. The addition of cobalt and tungsten further enhances its overall performance.
MagnaCut – One of the most balanced stainless knife steels ever developed, combining excellent toughness with outstanding corrosion resistance.
CPM S90V – Famous for its exceptional edge retention thanks to its very high vanadium content, though it is less tough and more difficult to sharpen.
K390 – An outstanding non-stainless tool steel with phenomenal edge retention and wear resistance, intended for demanding cutting tasks but requiring regular maintenance to prevent corrosion.

Criterion	MagnaMax vs MagnaCut
Edge retention	Notably superior (K390/Vanadis 8 level)
Corrosion resistance	Equivalent, very good
Toughness	Slightly lower
Sharpening	Harder (standard stones), diamond recommended
Availability (2026)	Very limited, near-boutique

MagnaMax in Context

In terms of performance, MagnaMax should offer edge retention comparable to K390 and Vanadis 8, placing it in the same general class as CPM-10V and CPM-S110V, while outperforming steels such as M390, ZDP-189, S60V, S30V, and CPM-M4 in wear resistance.

In toughness, it appears to sit just above Vanax, S35VN, CPM-154, and CTS-XHP… slightly below MagnaCut, yet still in the upper tier of stainless knife steels.

I was not one of the lucky MagnaMax Spyderco Mule owners but the consensus emerging from discussions on the Spyderco Forum is that MagnaMax is viewed as a specialized, edge-retention-focused premium steel. It seems particularly well suited to EDC and repetitive cutting tasks where wear resistance is paramount.
For bushcraft or survival use, however, where toughness often takes precedence, many members still favor MagnaCut, Cru-Wear, CPM-3V or CPM-M4.
As the Manix is a folder rather than a fixed blade, I don’t expect to subject it to heavy bushcraft. Still, many users happily rely on the Manix 2 in the woods.

As you may have noticed, the “CPM” marking has disappeared from the blade. That’s no coincidence. Following the closure of Crucible Industries, Spyderco has dropped the CPM designation from its blade markings. While the steel itself remains the focus, this small detail quietly marks the end of an era in the history of modern knife steels. 😦

In many ways, MagnaMax feels like the offspring of MagnaCut and K390. It aims to combine MagnaCut’s outstanding balance of toughness and corrosion resistance with the exceptional wear resistance and edge retention that have made K390 legendary among knife enthusiasts. While it is not literally derived from either steel, its design philosophy seems to bridge the gap between these two outstanding performers.

One interesting clue to Spyderco’s confidence in MagnaMax came from Eric Glesser during the Amsterdam Meet 2026, where he suggested that MagnaMax could eventually replace CPM S30V/CPM S45VN in Golden, Colorado-made folders. If that transition takes place, it would position MagnaMax as Spyderco’s new premium all-around stainless steel for many production models.
It is more than just a steel upgrade; it marks the beginning of a new era for Spyderco.

Ergonomics That Stand the Test of Time

The ergonomics of the Manix 2 platform have already been covered extensively in my previous review of the Manix 2 Salt G10. The outstanding handle design, aggressive jimping, Ball Bearing Lock, and exceptional grip remain unchanged here. MagnaMax does not alter what has always been one of the strongest aspects of this design.

The familiar combination of textured G10 scales, full stainless steel liners, and Spyderco’s proven hardware gives this knife an unmistakable feeling of strength. Combined with its additional weight, the knife inspires confidence the moment it is picked up. This is a tool that feels engineered for demanding work rather than simply everyday pocket carry.

Ready for Work

Out of the box, the edge is razor sharp. The factory sharpening is excellent, producing a clean, aggressive cutting edge that easily meets Spyderco’s reputation for outstanding factory grinds. The accompanying photographs speak for themselves.

Yes, the factory edge is absolutely razor sharp. After just a few light passes on a leather strop, the edge became even keener. Hair-whittling? Not quite—but hairs were flying effortlessly with the slightest touch. An excellent factory edge !

First Verdict

Eric’s Manix 2 MagnaMax appears to be one of the most versatile folding knives Spyderco currently offers. Its combination of toughness, ergonomic comfort, and strong lock makes it equally at home as an everyday carry knife, an outdoor companion, a workshop tool, or even a capable kitchen slicer. It is the kind of knife that encourages you to use it without constantly worrying about damaging it.

As this knife has just arrived, I want to evaluate it exactly as Spyderco intended before making any personal modifications, such as totally rounding the spine or applying one of my convex edges.

That said, I couldn’t resist giving the factory edge a quick test. Right out of the box, it sliced cleanly through the butt of a Coke plastic bottle like a hot knife through salted butter. If that’s any indication, Spyderco has absolutely nailed the factory edge on this MagnaMax Manix 2.
(Notice in the photo the smoothly chamfered blade spine and softened jimping, just like those found on the CPM 15V Sprint Runs.)

Direct comparisons with my Manix 2 CPM-S90V, the Manix 2 Salt CPM MagnaCut, the Paramilitary 2, and the Military 2 Salt would deserve an article of their own. Each represents a different philosophy, and MagnaMax may well redefine where the Manix 2 sits within Spyderco’s lineup.
After only a short time in hand, the Manix 2 MagnaMax already feels like one of the most compelling versions Spyderco has ever produced. It combines the legendary ergonomics of the Manix platform with one of the most advanced stainless steels currently available, while everything else has been subtly reinforced to create an uncompromising workhorse. Full stainless steel liners, a stronger Ball Bearing Lock spring, reassuring heft, and flawless fit and finish all contribute to a knife that feels built for a lifetime of hard use.

If long-term testing confirms these first impressions, this could become one of the finest all-around production folding knives in Spyderco’s catalog—a knife designed not to excel in only one area, but to perform exceptionally well in almost every situation.

This MagnaMa(ni)x feels like one of the last great V8 interceptors—a machine with real character and a touch of history. Black G10 scales, full stainless steel liners, a stout Ball Bearing Lock spring… everything about it conveys strength and purpose.
For its very first production folder in MagnaMax, Spyderco clearly didn’t hold back.
They went full throttle!

A Blade Swap for Wet Work

Since I intend to put MagnaMax through extensive testing in wet environments, I decided to take advantage of all the corrosion-resistant hardware from the Manix 2 Salt G10—its coated liners, black screws, and ceramic Ball Bearing Lock—so that the only component I’ll need to keep an eye on is the blade itself.

To avoid wrestling with the notoriously stubborn lanyard tube, I also kept the Salt’s G-10 scales. They only needed a light touch with 600-grit sandpaper to tame their aggressive texture and avoid carrying what was essentially a championship-grade pocket shredder. 😀

This way, I’ll be able to see how well MagnaMax stands up to every kind of wet work I can throw at it, whether in the kitchen, out in the woods, by the river, or even in the ocean.

Swapping the blades was a pleasure in itself. It gave me the opportunity to appreciate just how cleverly the Manix 2 is engineered and how impressively tight Spyderco’s manufacturing tolerances are.

The only minor hiccup involved the pivot. Each blade appears to be individually fitted to its own pivot, so the MagnaMax pivot wasn’t compatible with the DLC-coated MagnaCut blade. Reinstalling each blade with its original pivot solved the issue immediately. In the end, I swapped not only the blades but also their respective pivots—and, if memory serves me right, perhaps even the washers!

After the swap, the knife feels like the Manix 2 Spyderco never made. The MagnaMax blade paired with the Salt G-10 chassis combines exceptional edge retention with the corrosion-resistant hardware of the Salt series. Lockup remains rock solid, blade centering is perfect, and the action is every bit as smooth as the factory configuration. If there is such a thing as the ultimate production Manix 2, this custom hybrid comes remarkably close.

I’ve decided to keep the original polymer cage. The current black version is considerably tougher than the translucent cages used on the earliest Manix 2 models, so I see no reason to replace it.

I’ve also decided to keep the factory clip. It rests perfectly on the Salt G-10 scale’s sweet spot and carries comfortably exactly as Spyderco intended.

The Manix 2 has already proved itself over nearly two decades. The real question is no longer the platform—it is MagnaMax. If this steel delivers in everyday use what its design promises on paper, Spyderco may have introduced one of the most significant production blade steels of the decade. The next few months will tell.

V8

Every knife I truly bond with eventually earns a name. This one was an obvious choice: I’ll call this Manix MagnaMax “V8.”

Like the legendary Pursuit Special from Mad Max, this knife feels unapologetically overbuilt and full of character. Black G10 scales, full stainless steel liners, and a stout Ball Bearing Lock spring—it has the soul of a machine built to survive the Wasteland, cutting deep and true long after lesser blades have given up.

And now you understand the hint at the beginning of this review. 😉

Folders, Review

Spyderco Dyad Jr. Lightweight CPM SPY27 Sprint Run – Part 2 – By Hook Or By Crook.

01/07/2026 nemosandman 1 Comment

Disclaimer: I purchased this knife myself from Coutellerie Tourangelle for €113. As always, their service was excellent, and the knife was shipped quickly. No sponsorship, no discount, and no editorial input—just my own experience as a satisfied customer.

The moment you open the black and red box, one thing becomes immediately obvious:
The Dyad is a very strange critter.
Think about it for a second: a Spyderco with two Spyderholes… and no pocket clip. Two Papa Sal’s signatures also (on each blade and always visible ! )
That alone is enough to make even seasoned Spyderco enthusiasts raise an eyebrow.

Robin has already written an excellent review of this Sprint Run, so rather than rehashing the same points, I’ll focus on my own impressions and observations. You can read his article >>>>here<<<<

At first glance, this Japanese-made Dyad Jr. Sprint Run looks almost toy-like. It is remarkably small, to the point where many people would dismiss it without a second thought.
That would be a mistake.
This little knife hides far more capability than its modest dimensions suggest.
In fact, it offers a better edge-to-handle ratio than almost any conventional folder.
Why?
Because you’re carrying twice the cutting edge in a package that’s barely larger than a typical single-bladed knife.
You can call it “Double Trouble.”
Or perhaps “Stereo Spyderco.”
You get the idea. 🙂
Because the concept is deceptively simple. Instead of relying on a single blade, the Dyad Jr. combines two highly specialized tools. The fully serrated blade delivers cutting power far beyond what you would expect from a knife this size, effortlessly tearing through fibrous materials, rope, cardboard or tough plastics. Meanwhile, the plain edge features an exceptionally thin grind that makes it feel almost like a miniature scalpel, offering impressive precision for delicate work.

Both blades are ground surprisingly thin, a characteristic that immediately stands out when you start using the knife. The plain edge, in particular, slices with an ease that few compact folders can match.

Then comes the best surprise of all: Spy27 !

Spyderco’s proprietary steel gives this little knife a thoroughly modern heart. It offers an excellent balance of edge retention, toughness, corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening—exactly the kind of steel you want in a compact everyday carry knife that is likely to tackle a wide variety of tasks.

The Dyad Jr. has often been described as an oddball.
I disagree.
I think it is one of Sal Glesser’s most honest designs.
I still remember watching Sal use his own Dyad in a German restaurant back in 1999. He would casually switch from the plain edge to the serrated edge depending on what was on his plate. At the time, it seemed almost eccentric. Looking back, it perfectly captured the philosophy behind the Dyad: always having the right edge for the job.

Knife enthusiasts love to argue. Plain edge or serrated? Large knife or small knife? Deep carry clip or no clip? Every new model seems to force us into choosing a side.

The Dyad Jr. refuses to play that game.

Instead of asking one blade to do everything reasonably well, Spyderco simply gave us two specialists living under the same roof.

One blade is a competent surgeon, ready to remove a splinter.

The other is a tiny lumberjack, a security blade ready to saw into seatbelts.
The plain edge glides through paper, food, blister packs or delicate materials like cherry tomatoes with astonishing precision. The grind is so thin that it almost disappears behind the edge. It doesn’t feel like a compact pocket knife—it feels like a folding scalpel.

The serrated blade has completely different manners. It doesn’t slice; it attacks ! Rope, cardboard, nylon webbing, plastic strapping… materials that gradually wear down a straight edge are dispatched with almost insulting ease. You don’t ask permission. You just cut.

The serrations are nicely rounded, much like those on the Spyderco Chaparral Serrated. They cut aggressively without the annoying tendency to snag, making them surprisingly smooth in use.

The beauty of the Dyad concept isn’t simply having two blades.
It’s that your brain quickly learns to assign jobs to each one.

Without even thinking about it, the serrated edge becomes your “construction worker.” Cardboard boxes. Amazon packages. Cable ties. Dirty jobs.

The plain edge remains your gentleman.
Opening a letter. Peeling an apple. Carving delicately a piece of wood. Trimming a loose thread from a jacket.

Each blade “protects” the other.
Ironically, this means the Dyad Jr. often stays sharper longer than a conventional single-bladed knife. The workload is shared, and so is the wear.

Calling the Dyad Jr. a multi-tool completely misses the point.
There are no screwdrivers.
No bottle opener.
No scissors.
No tiny saw pretending to cut wood.

In my book, the serrated blade is the one I use directly on the plate, while the plain edge stays on the cutting board, where its razor-thin edge can really shine without risking unnecessary damage.

Just two exceptionally good blades. A robust screw-together construction that can be disassembled for maintenance.
It is obvious: Spyderco wasn’t trying to build a Swiss Army Knife.
They were building another serious cutting tool that simply happened to have two blades.
They built a knife that asks a different question:
“What if cutting was the only function worth optimizing?”

Looking at it that way, the Dyad Jr. suddenly makes perfect sense.

Ah, but that missing pocket clip still catches the eye. Here it sits next to two of its Spy27 siblings, looking almost naked without the familiar Spyderco clip.

It also means carrying the Dyad Jr. in the same orientation every time. Before long, your hand automatically knows which Spyderhole to reach for.

It’s a habit I learned years ago from Michael Janich’s Street Steel: consistency creates muscle memory, and muscle memory is always faster than conscious thought.
(But unlike Casper, my lightning-fast Meerkat, the Dyad Jr. isn’t a quick-draw knife. It opens at a more civilized pace, much like a traditional gentleman’s folder. It encourages intention rather than haste.)

The bi-directional textured FRN scales provide excellent grip. Ergonomically, the Dyad Jr. isn’t quite as comfortable as a conventional single-bladed folder—the folded blade on the opposite side can sometimes be felt under your fingers. It never becomes painful, but you are always aware that there is another blade nested inside the handle.

That said, if you grip the knife by its FRN scales rather than squeezing directly over the blade wells, nothing shifts or flexes. The handle feels reassuringly solid, and the aggressive texture keeps the knife securely planted in your hand, even when it gets wet or slippery.

Today, every Spyderco seems incomplete without a clip, uh ?
If I carry the Dyad Jr. for a week in my fifth pocket, I wont notice the clip absence. But I have decided to use my right denim back pocket instead.
And the Janich’s trick.
Ah going clip-less can be good also !
It disappears into the bottom of my pocket like the classic pocket knives many of us grew up with. Nothing catches on a car seat. Nothing snags your jacket lining. Nothing pokes your hand when reaching for your keys.
The FRN scales are sturdy, it won’t get marks or bruises. No pocket shredding…

More importantly, deleting the clip also preserves that perfect symmetry of the handle. Two blades. Two lock bars. Two Spyderholes. Everything feels balanced, visually and mechanically.

Sometimes restraint is the most elegant design choice.

There is something wonderfully ironic about this Sprint Run : the Dyad Jr. is a design born decades ago, yet it solves a modern problem better than many contemporary folders.
Today, we obsess over blade steels, coatings, lock mechanisms and deep carry pocket clips.

The Dyad Jr. quietly reminds us that geometry still matters more than marketing.
A thin blade will always cut better than a thick one.
Serrations will still outperform a plain edge in various fibrous materials.
And with the Dyad Jr., you can switch from one to the other instantly, comparing both edges on exactly the same material, in exactly the same conditions. Few knives offer such an immediate and revealing side-by-side experience !
And carrying two purpose-built blades often makes more sense than asking one blade to compromise.

Both blades are secured by independent back locks, making the Dyad Jr. exceptionally safe to use. Unfortunately, this also makes this delightful little dual-blade folder an outlaw in some countries.

Take the United Kingdom, for example. A traditional Swiss Army Knife, with its non-locking slipjoint blades, can generally be carried legally in many everyday situations (or the UKPK pictured here). The Dyad Jr., despite being just as compact—and arguably just as practical—doesn’t enjoy the same status simply because both of its blades lock open.

To me, this is perhaps the concept’s greatest drawback, although it has nothing to do with the knife itself. It is simply a reflection of its unmistakable American heritage. Like the legendary Buck 110 before it, the Dyad Jr. was designed around the idea that a working knife should lock securely when in use. Sal Glesser chose function and safety over legal convenience, and the result is a knife that may be perfectly at home in the United States while being far less welcome in jurisdictions with stricter knife laws.

Now, add Spy27 to the equation—a steel that combines excellent edge retention, toughness, corrosion resistance and remarkably easy maintenance—and this little Dyad suddenly feels less like a nostalgic reissue and more like a timeless concept that finally received the steel it always deserved !
(Spy27 as you know it in my various reviews simply feels right on an EDC knife. It strikes a remarkable balance between edge retention, toughness, corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening—qualities that matter far more in everyday use than chasing the latest super steel.)

Out of the box, the factory edge shaves arm hair with ease. After a few passes on the strop, I’m confident it will be popping free-standing hairs like only a truly razor-sharp edge can.

Looking back, I can’t help thinking that the Dyad Jr. would have become my father-in-law’s favorite knife. Knowing how hard he used his old Pradel folders every single day, this little tool would have been love at first cut.

The Dyad Jr. doesn’t try to impress you.
It doesn’t chase trends or exotic mechanisms. It simply becomes another quiet companion, always ready to deliver outstanding cutting performance whenever you ask.
Cut after cut, it will quietly remind you that Sal Glesser had already found the answer long before the rest of us had finished arguing about the question.

Maybe that’s what the Dyad Jr. has always been about:
“Think once. Cut twice.” 😉

(I eventually found the perfect name for my Dyad Jr.: Janus. In Roman mythology, Janus is the god of gates, transitions, and duality, famously depicted with two faces looking in opposite directions. That symbolism fits the Dyad Jr. beautifully. Its twin blades represent two distinct cutting philosophies housed within a single knife, each ready for a different task. Like its namesake, the Dyad Jr. is always looking both ways—versatile, balanced, and prepared for whatever comes next.)

Folders, Review

Spyderco Military 2 Salt – C36GBKYLMCP2 Part 2 – Wet Works & Piece of Mind

26/06/2026 nemosandman 2 Comments

My first article about the Military 2 Salt was a story about evolution. About how Spyderco quietly transformed one of its most iconic folders from the ATS-34 era into something that almost feels like the final expression of the Military concept. From ATS-34 to the Salt Age, the journey was technical, historical and, in many ways, inevitable.

This time, I want to talk about something much simpler :
Living with Gurney, my Mil 2 Salt.
(I nicknamed my Military 2 Salt Gurney, after Gurney Halleck from Dune. A warrior, a troubadour and, above all, a dependable companion. Somehow, it seemed fitting.)
Because after months of carrying it, I’ve stopped thinking about its steel, its lock or even its impressive specifications.

I simply reach for it. And I like it. I like its texture and action.
I did not like some hot spots.

The very first thing I did was reshape the edge. Not because Spyderco’s factory edge wasn’t excellent—it was—but because every knife eventually becomes personal.

Sal Glesser has often said that sharpening a knife is one of the ways its owner truly makes it his own.
I couldn’t agree more.

Over the years I’ve come to prefer a convex edge on almost every working knife I own. It glides through food beautifully, feels stronger behind the edge and, perhaps more importantly, suits the way I maintain my knives.

Magnacut seems to love that de-shouldering treatment of mine.

Once the convex geometry is established, maintenance becomes almost effortless. A few strokes on a leather strop are usually all it takes to bring the edge back to hair-popping sharpness.

Just a few moments with a strop on fine leather (NOT that Gucci !) or white ceramic, and the Military 2 Salt is ready for another week of work.

No complicated sharpening sessions.
No steel removal unless it’s really necessary.
Free-hand sharpening is a skill to hone. 😉
Pun absolutely intended.

Now, about those hot spots I mentioned earlier.

I also rounded the blade spine.

Not because it needed it, but because I simply love the feeling of a nicely rounded spine under my thumb. It’s a small modification that makes prolonged use even more comfortable and gives the knife a more refined, almost custom feel.

Like the convex edge, it’s one of those little personal touches that turns a production knife into your knife.

Ah, and the choil ! Just to fit it to my hand. I have used the diamonds rods from my Spyderco TriAngle sharpening system.

Those scales are french fries friendly. 🙂

Ok, like many knife enthusiasts, I spend far more time preparing food than cutting ropes or surviving in the wilderness.

Summer only reinforces that habit. (Here pictured with my favorite kitchen knife custom the Kitchen Warriors made by Patrick Bonetta)

Tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, avocado, watermelon, mozzarella, feta, peaches, lemon, herbs… preparing large salads means wet hands covered with olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar and vegetable residue. Exactly the kind of environment where many folders start feeling slippery and where corrosion quietly begins its work.

The Military 2 Salt simply doesn’t care. Citric acid ? Bring it on !
And that G10 pattern/texture really keeps the knife perfectly anchored in my hand even when everything is slick as butter under the sun.

I would ever think that its ergonomics almost reveal once my hands are wet and slippery.
And you know what, in cutlery, luxury is not having to think.

Magnacut attracts all the attention nowadays and corrosion resistance sells knives. But what I appreciate most isn’t the laboratory performance. It’s the peace of mind.
Nothing is going to rust.
Nothing is going to seize.
Nothing requires immediate cleaning because I forgot the knife in the sink after cooking.

That confidence is difficult to quantify, but it changes the relationship you have with your tool.

This is something few knives offer.

At around €200 (or about $200), the Military 2 Salt is hardly a budget knife, but I honestly think it’s a bargain for what you’re getting: a thoroughly refined design built around one of the most capable blade steels available today.

(A deep pocket carry clip is a must for a low profile attitude.)

That knife, it removes one more concern from everyday life.
You simply use it, rinse it if needed, strop it from time to time… and never worry about rust, corrosion or a reluctant pivot. No lock stick on mine actually. Just a smoooooth opening and closing.

The Military has always been a large folder. Well balanced and alive in your hand once opened.

But its pointy blade is undeniably imposing.

Yet the black and yellow Salt colors completely change the perception people have of it.

Instead of looking tactical, it looks… useful.

That yellow jacket Salt identity somehow soften its silhouette. It becomes an obvious tool before becoming a military weapon.

That surprised me.

I expected a big folder built with soldiers (of fortune), outdoorsmen and hard users in mind. And it is.

Instead I found one wasp of a folder that almost disappears into daily life despite its size.

Larger folders are often criticized for being excessive.

Sometimes that’s true. But excess is good in a sturdy piece of equipment.

I do love the Lil’Temperance in K390 which is a beast of a folder.
But when summer arrives and you’re slicing an entire watermelon, preparing vegetables for several people or working with large ingredients, blade length suddenly becomes an advantage rather than a compromise.

This is exactly where my UKPK Salt or even my Sage Salt begin to reach their limits. Blade length in the kitchen is defining the use of the knife.

These days, whenever I know I’m going to spend time doing wet work, I instinctively grab the Military 2 Salt.

If I’m cooking—or simply lending a hand in a friend’s kitchen—the Military 2 Salt usually travels in my bag, while a smaller Slipit, like the Urban, rides in my pocket. (Or a Microjimbo, Meerkat, Lil’Native…)

The same applies when I’m camping or travelling.

Peace of mind is priceless, and that’s exactly what Spyderco’s CPM Magnacut Salt knives give me.

Gurney comes along as well, bringing all the qualities I appreciate most: a high-tech blade, superb balance and effortless reliability.

Not because they’re the strongest folding knives I own.
But because they’re the ones I never have to worry about.
I know they’ll deliver—whether in terms of cutting performance, corrosion resistance or simple reliability.

Easy to deploy.
Easy to control.
Easy to clean and keep it dirty.
Easy to put back in the pocket.
Solid. Reliable. Efficient.
The Military 2 Salt has become exactly that.

A big folder to live with.
A little piece of Colorado in my pocket.

Folders, Review

Spyderco Meerkat CPM-SPY27 Sprint Run –Part II – Casper the Friendly Ghost ?

15/06/2026 nemosandman 2 Comments

You know how much I enjoy giving names to my knives.
Well, this Meerkat Sprint Run ( >>>>PART 1<<<<) is going to be called Casper.

Partly because of its very friendly personality, and partly because of its famous Phantom Lock. It seemed only fitting.

Like the friendly ghost, the Meerkat is small, harmless-looking and easy to like. It quietly disappears into a pocket, only to reappear when needed. And then, of course, there is that Phantom Lock. A lock that remains hidden, mysterious and just a little magical, even after all these years.

So yes, this Meerkat has officially become Casper the friendly folder, especially toward sheeples.

Now, as many of you know, I tend to baptize my knives the traditional Nemo way: with a little bit of my own blood.

And the Meerkat did not disappoint.

Ah ! When closing the blade with a wrist flick after disengaging the Phantom Lock, make sure your middle finger is well clear of the blade’s path.
If it isn’t, it will quickly discover that the Meerkat’s edge is less friendly than its name suggests.

The closing blade comes down like a tiny guillotine, and yes, it cuts very well.

Ask me how I know. 😉

Nothing serious, just a small nick, but it serves as a useful reminder: the Meerkat may be compact and charming, yet it is still a very sharp Spyderco.

But once you start playing with the Meerkat, several things quickly become apparent.

First, it is surprisingly fidget-friendly.

Once you get the hang of it, disengaging the Phantom Lock and flicking the blade shut with a simple wrist movement becomes second nature. It is one of those knives that invites interaction. Before you know it, you find yourself opening and closing it repeatedly just for the pleasure of the mechanism. Just keep that middle finger away !

The second thing I noticed is how enjoyable the knife is to deploy using the good old Spyder Drop.
Draw !!

I know this opening method is no longer fashionable. Nowadays, many users prefer to flick open a tip-up folder with their index finger. But the classic Spyderco opening technique—grabbing the knife by the Round Hole and snapping the blade open with a wrist flick—works wonderfully well with the Meerkat.
The reasons are simple: tip down carry and…
The handle carries a surprising amount of weight thanks to its steel liners, full backspacer and robust construction. That extra mass gives the knife excellent momentum during deployment, making the opening feel smooth, positive and satisfying.

Another pleasant surprise is the ergonomics.
Despite its compact size, the handle comfortably accommodates all four fingers. The index finger naturally settles into the choil, while even the pinky gets its own dedicated space. The result is a grip that feels far more secure and powerful than the knife’s dimensions would suggest.

Then there is the blade.

One detail genuinely surprised me.
Looking at the blade stock thickness, the Meerkat is actually thinner than the famously thin UKPK.

Meerkat: 0.096” (2.4 mm)

UKPK: 0.098” (2.5 mm)

We’re only talking about a tenth of a millimeter, but I still found it amusing.
The UKPK has long been my benchmark for a thin, high-performance cutting blade. Yet here comes this odd little Meerkat, quietly slipping underneath it.
Perhaps that helps explain why the knife feels so eager when slicing wood, food, cardboard or just about anything else.
The Meerkat may look chunky because of its stout handle and full stainless steel liners, but the blade itself is surprisingly lean.

Like many great Spydercos, it hides its elite cutting performance in plain sight.

Its generous belly and thin geometry make it an outstanding cutter. The edge remains in contact with a cutting board through much of the cutting stroke, allowing clean and efficient slicing.

I’ll admit that, despite its tiny size, I ended up doing a surprising amount of kitchen work with it. Tomatoes, vegetables, even breaking down and portioning a chicken—the little Meerkat handled everything without complaint.

Agile in hand and eager to cut, it never feels overwhelmed.

This little knife is a genuine worker.

The textured FRN scales provide excellent traction, preventing any tendency to slip during use. Equally important, I found absolutely no blade play, either vertically or laterally. That’s reassuring on a knife whose pivot is not particularly accessible for adjustment.

In actual use, the Meerkat reveals itself as an exceptionally capable travel companion.

Low profile, discreet and easy to carry, yet remarkably efficient when called upon. Much of that comes from its relatively thick handle, which provides excellent control, while the thin, tall blade slices with a combination of precision and authority that continues to surprise me.

Small sheeple friendly folder, yes but very, very, very serious cutter.
An impeccable companion that disappears into a pocket.
Ghostlike.
Always there when called upon.
And far more capable than its size would ever suggest.

Folders, Review

Spyderco Meerkat CPM-SPY27 Sprint Run – The Return of the Phantom’s Menace.

12/06/2026 nemosandman 1 Comment

Ah, the Meerkat and its magical Phantom Lock… Ah ah ah!
This one takes me straight back to 2002. Back to the Future, Spyderco style.
The Meerkat is one of those knives that seems to have been designed for a single purpose: making knife enthusiasts scratch their heads.
First impression? This is a very small knife. Even compared to the Chaparral.
The Chaparral owes much of its DNA to the C62 Navigator. It was a compact lockback with the same short blade (saber hollow grind) optimized for travel and office-friendly carry. It also carries forward the spirit of the C09 CoPilot, continuing Spyderco’s long tradition of creating small knives that cut far bigger than their dimensions would suggest.

Naturally, I slipped the Meerkat into my fifth pocket, where it fits absolutely perfectly. In fact, it feels like it was designed for that role.

The second thing you notice is that this little oddball is set up for tip-down carry, just like the mighty Spyderco Military. And yes, you can still perform the classic Spyderco Drop without any issue ! 🙂

In hand, the Meerkat feels like a stout little worker. The action is firm, the lock-up is rock solid, and despite its compact size, there is nothing delicate about it. Everything feels purposeful and surprisingly robust.

Then comes the Phantom Lock. The Ghost in the Shell. 😉
I have just found that video made by Wouter (Spydercollector) 16 years ago !

Just hand the knife to another knife enthusiast and watch the show begin. They open it. They admire it.
Then they try to close it.

Confusion follows.
That’s when you starts smiling. 🙂

More than twenty years later, the Phantom Lock remains one of the cleverest and most entertaining locking mechanisms Spyderco has ever produced. It’s practical, it’s secure, and above all, it’s pure Spyderco: innovative, unconventional, and just a little bit crazy. 😄

Sliding the scale to unlock the blade.

Yep, some knives are designed to sell with some tactical bells and whistles.
Others are designed to impress for their cleverness.
The Meerkat never became a mainstream Spyderco classic. It was too small for tactical enthusiasts, too weird for traditionalists, and too clever for its own good. Yet more than twenty years later, Spyderco decided to bring it back as a Sprint Run equipped with CPM-SPY27 steel and cobalt blue FRN scales.

And honestly?
I’m so glad they did !
Because the Meerkat was a knife from the future, designed twenty years ago.

And it is cute !

No, really, it remains one of the most futuristic designs ever released by Spyderco.
At first glance, it looks like a tiny leaf-shaped folder with a humpback silhouette and a blade barely longer than your thumb.
Full Flat Grind, the Spyderco Signature, deep carry clip
Then you discover the lock.
The famous Phantom Lock.
Unlike a traditional back lock, the Meerkat closes by slightly twisting the handle scales in opposite directions. The mechanism releases almost magically, making the knife feel more like a gadget from a science-fiction movie than a conventional EDC your grand’pa would have chosen in a gun show.. Even today, very few production knives offer anything remotely similar.
Sal Glesser is an inventor. He loves his craft. I still can hear his laugh when I have handing a Meerkat to a knife enthusiast, the reaction is the same: “Wait… how do you close this thing?”

Mission accomplished ! (Still confused by the Phantom Lock? Don’t worry, you’re not the first. Just push on the Spyderco logo to slide the scale. Suddenly, the magic trick reveals its secret. And you’ll soon be able to operate it with one hand.) 😉

The Meerkat carries its fully flat-ground blade measuring just over 5 cm (2inches). On paper, that sounds ridiculously small.
In practice, it slices like a miniature lightlaser.

Spyderco’s leaf-shaped blade profile has always been one of the most efficient cutting geometries in the business. Give it a thin full-flat grind and suddenly this tiny folder starts behaving like a much larger knife.

Opening parcels. Food prep. Sharing a fruit. Breaking down cardboard. Removing parcel. Protect your family against enraged bear attacks.
You name it.
The Meerkat will perform all of these tasks with surprising authority.

The blade disappears in any pockets with its deep tip down carry system.

This Sprint Run upgrades the original steel to CPM-SPY27, Spyderco’s proprietary powder metallurgy stainless steel developed with Crucible. The goal was simple: create a steel offering a balance of edge retention, toughness, corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening.

I’ve not used enough SPY27 on larger folders like a Bodacious or a Manix 2 XL to fully explore its limits, but I do understand what Spyderco was trying to achieve with what I often call their “powder metallurgy VG-10.”

My own experience with SPY27 comes mainly from a UKPK that I have nicknamed The Golden Child.

What I’ve discovered is this: SPY27 doesn’t try to win steel competitions. It simply works.
The edge stays keen for a long time, corrosion resistance is excellent, and maintenance remains refreshingly easy compared to some modern “super steels.” Much like Magnacut, SPY27 seems to love a leather strop. A few passes are often enough to bring back that crisp, shaving-sharp edge.

Many users compare its overall performance to S35VN, appreciating how straightforward it is to touch up. Perhaps they’re right. Personally, I don’t really care whether it lands closer to S30V, S35VN or S45VN.
What matters is that Spyderco consistently gets the recipe right.
Because a blade is never just an alloy.
A blade is alloy + heat treatment + geometry.

And Golden’s people understand that better than most.
What I want in 2026 is a blade steel that is easy on my mind.
A steel that won’t punish me for grabbing the wrong sharpening tool while travelling.

A steel that can be maintained without turning sharpening into a science project.

A forgiving steel.

At sixty years old, I find myself caring less about ultimate edge retention and more about living with a knife.
SPY27 feels like one of those steels that wants to work with its owner rather than against him.
For a compact EDC like the Meerkat, that balance is exactly what I want.

This is not a knife meant to chop down forests.
It is, however, a surprisingly capable whittler.
The generous belly, thin blade stock and full-flat grind simply devour wood. Whether shaping a tent peg, sharpening a stick for the barbecue or absent-mindedly carving curls while sitting by a campfire, the Meerkat performs far beyond what its dimensions would suggest.

The blade bites eagerly, tracks predictably and leaves behind clean, controlled cuts.

Small knife.
Big appetite.

Yes, it really is that powerful.

The Meerkat is a knife meant to disappear into your fifth pocket and be forgotten.

Twenty years after its introduction, that’s still what impresses me most about the Meerkat: not the Phantom Lock, not the rarity, not the nostalgia.

The fact that such a small knife cuts so ridiculously well.

The knife represents an era when Spyderco was willing to experiment with strange concepts simply because they were interesting.

Today many manufacturers chase trends.
The Meerkat reminds us of a time when designers chased ideas.
Its unusual lock, compact dimensions and unmistakable silhouette make it instantly recognizable among hundreds of modern folders.

You don’t buy a Meerkat because it is the most practical knife.
You buy it because it is unmistakably a… Meerkat.
Cute, clever and sharp.

That SPY27 Sprint Run does not reinvent the Meerkat.
Fortunately.
It preserves everything that made the original memorable while upgrading the steel to something genuinely useful for modern everyday carry.

Tiny. Strange. Ingenious. Solid, Stout. Great ergonomics for a 2 inches blade. The Meerkat remains one of the most charming oddballs ever released by Spyderco.
And in a knife world increasingly filled with tactical clones and oversized pocket swords, that may be exactly what makes it special.

Not because it is perfect. Because nothing else feels quite like it.
Invention, innovation….
Open it. Read between the line and twist the scales to close it.

The Meerkat is a jewel of a user. The kind of little big knife you can clip into a pocket every morning and completely forget about—until you need a knife. Then it reminds you exactly why it’s there.

Much like the little African animal that inspired its name, the Meerkat has a habit of suddenly popping up when something interesting needs attention. That’s part of its charm.

>>>>>>PART 2 “The Friendly Ghost <<<<<<<

Disclaimer: This knife has been provided through Spyderco’s Ambassador’s program and friendship. Thank you to them for letting me review it. It felt like welcoming back an old friend I hadn’t seen in over twenty years.

If the Meerkat has piqued your curiosity, do yourself a favor and visit the website of my friend Wouter (“Mr. Blonde”). Few people know Spyderco history better than he does::
https://spydercollector.wordpress.com/tag/meerkat/

Also, there is a great thread on the Spyderco Forums featuring information, anecdotes and historical details contributed by collectors (including my friend and contributor, Robin “Ramonade):
https://forum.spyderco.com/viewtopic.php?p=1885029#p1885029

And of course as mentionned:
>>>>>>PART 2 “The Friendly Ghost <<<<<<<

Folders, Review

“Spirit” – Des Horn 450# – A Whisper of Steel in a World Obsessed with Noise

19/05/2026 nemosandman 1 Comment

In the rarefied atmosphere of high-end custom knives, true elegance rarely announces itself loudly. It reveals itself slowly — through proportion, restraint, tactility, and detail. The Des Horn 450# belongs to this vanishing category of objects: creations that do not merely impress, but seduce.

This is my second folder from my friend Des Horn. (I have known Des and Linda for nearly twenty years now. Des Horn is a true legend in knifemaking — a master of his craft, and above all, a gentleman.)
The first folder was a beautiful Imvubu that was unfortunately confiscated at airport security after traveling clandestinely beneath my wallet. I was absolutely convinced my pockets were knifeless — until the metal detector disagreed.
Watching it disappear into the security tray was genuinely heartbreaking. Losing such an elegant piece because I was sprinting to catch a flight for a TF1 reportage made the whole scene feel even more absurd. Some objects are replaceable. A Des Horn never truly is.

Des knew about this very first-world tragedy, and after nearly ten years I finally decided it was time to own another of his beautiful knives. I asked him which folder, among all his creations, was his personal favorite.
His answer came immediately: “The 450#. My favorite.”

(Pictured here is the 450# my friend Jan Dirk has bought from him 15 years ago. Perhaps JD’s favorite in all his collection. Actually Pascal Jaffre also have one…)

He told me he would find a particularly unusual piece of carbon fiber for it and also:
“This one has a “2K” finish .
Very tough and durable and is used on exotic cars to finish the carbon fibre. It was the only one I had finished without a clip.”

And then came the part that genuinely left me speechless: this special 450# was a gift from Des Horn for my 60th birthday !!!
In a world where so many luxury objects are reduced to transactions, gestures like this carry something infinitely more valuable: humanity, generosity, and the quiet bond between two friends.
I will remain forever grateful. Thank you Des and Linda.

At just 26 grams, the knife found its name almost immediately: Spirit. Spirit of Cape Town.
Partly for its impossible lightness, as if the knife itself barely belonged to the physical world. And partly for what the French so beautifully call la part des anges — the angel’s share — that invisible portion reserved for time, memory, and things too precious to truly possess. A knife this light almost feels immaterial. A gift like this certainly does like a whisper of steel…

Spirit is less a cutting instrument than a study in modern aristocratic design. At first glance, it appears almost understated. There are no aggressive lines, no tactical theatrics, no oversized hardware screaming for attention. Instead, the knife radiates the confidence of an object that knows exactly what it is.

And what it is, precisely, is one of the most refined lady and gentleman’s folders ever conceived.

The first sensation delivered by the 450# is disbelief.

Lift it, and the knife nearly disappears in the hand. Versions executed in marbled carbon fiber and Nitrobe 77 steel have achieved almost mythical status among collectors for their featherlight construction — a level of portability more often associated with luxury writing instruments than with precision folders. Yet despite its ethereal mass, the knife feels structurally complete, almost architectural.

This paradox defines the genius of Des Horn.

Spirit (like all 450#) is not designed around brute force. It is designed around intelligent refinement. Every millimeter exists for a reason. The slim silhouette slips effortlessly into tailored trousers or the inner pocket of a cashmere jacket, becoming part of the wearer rather than an accessory imposed upon him.

In an era obsessed with excess, the 450# celebrates discretion.
It is housed in a beautiful buffalo leather pouch, a cocoon-like case designed to protect it from pocket dust and daily abrasion. Simple, tactile, and perfectly in tune with the object it carries — an understated sheath for something already defined by discretion and refinement.

Once in your hand, the action itself is an exercise in restraint.
Unlike modern folders engineered for theatrical deployment, the 450# front flipper unfolds with subtle precision. The movement feels intimate, almost private — a mechanism intended for connoisseurs rather than spectators. The blade opens with silky assurance, revealing tolerances that reflect decades of accumulated craftsmanship.
It is also fully ambidextrous — intuitive, balanced, and genuinely enjoyable to handle. That sense of play is not incidental; it is part of the design language.
Because beyond precision and materials, pleasure matters. Fun, tactile satisfaction, and the simple desire to interact with the object are essential parts of how I evaluate and experience it.

The blade is crafted from Nitrobe 77.
Ah… another legendary steel.
Revered among enthusiasts for its extraordinary corrosion resistance and exceptional cutting performance, Nitrobe 77 manages to combine qualities that rarely coexist: hardness, toughness, edge retention, and remarkable flexibility.
It takes — and keeps — an incredibly sharp edge, while remaining astonishingly resilient under stress. Des himself has demonstrated its elasticity in some videos that almost seem unreal the first time you watch them. And for those familiar with the world of performance steels, seeing Shawn Houston — the magician behind CPM 15V heat treatments for Spyderco — speak highly of Nitrobe 77 says a great deal about the material’s reputation among serious knife people.

Quoting Shawn on the Bladeforums:

“Nitrobe77 has 0.9% wt N which it uses some of to make nitrogen martensite like lc200n. Some of that nitrogen total is locked up as Cr2N that dissolves at the temperatures N77 requires to harden. That nitrogen put in solution will become nitrogen martensite when quenched. The nitrogen that did not dissolve stayed behind in a nice, small compliment of Niobium rich nitrides (MN type/NbN) which don’t dissolve in the Chromium and Austenite as readily as the Vanadium at the temperatures required to harden Hence why we have Nb dominant MN type. These Nitrides are just not at enough volume to make this steel a “rope killer”

The Nitrobe 77 is unique thanks to it’s ability to get harder than the other Nitrogen martensite rich steels like Lc200n thanks to being designed for precipitation strengthening. Using liquid nitrogen cryogenics and multiple high tempers after quenching allows the steel to raise up in HRC each cycle after hardening thanks to converting retained austenite that didn’t transform from quenching to hard martensite and also the nitrides precipitating from the martensite and coarsening to the necessary sizes to strengthen the steel to resist displacement and make up for the shrinking of martensite.

It is possibly the best sharpening steel in the world and can operate at 62-64rc, The Nitriding process combined with this chemistry and volume makes a fine structured steel. The wear resistance is not super high however.

Nitrobe77 is one of my favorite steels but unfortunately due to cost, difficulty making at the steel mill and it not being cost effective to heat treat mass production. It has finally been discontinued by Damasteel as of 2018, they kept it alive for a long while.

I feel Des Horn has done some amazing work with Nitrobe 77 and had helped the steel persist for a long time @Deshorn”

Des Horn heat-treated the Nitrobe 77 blade through a triple-cycle process, each stage followed by a carefully controlled cryogenic quench in liquid nitrogen. Three heat treatments. Three deep freezes. A complex sequence designed for pure performance — pushing Nitrobe 77 to its best toughness, and edge stability.

The phrase “gentleman’s folder” has become tragically diluted in recent years, attached indiscriminately to any small knife wearing carbon fiber. I feel like that 450# restores dignity to the term.

(My friend Robin had the opportunity to meet Des at Solingen 2026 Knife Show. He was the one who brought “Spirit” to me.
He even made a pic comparing the Spyderco C153GP and the custom made 450#.)

The 450# is a knife conceived for cultivated environments: the desk of an architect in Capetown, the leather seat of an Aston Martin crossing Mayfair, the quiet ritual of opening correspondence in a private office lined with walnut and books.
It is the kind of personal knife John Steed or Emma Peel might have carried — discreetly elegant, technically refined, and perfectly at home beside a tailored suit or inside the glove compartment of a vintage Bentley.

But like in The Avengers, one should never confuse kindness with weakness.
John Steed and Emma Peel always carried themselves with a kind of effortless civility that concealed something far more formidable beneath the surface.
Spirit follows the same logic.

(And what about the New Avengers? A testament to that spirit is the collaborative work Des has done with James Purdey & Sons, creating a knife truly worthy of the Purdey name. Fans of Joanna Lumley will especially appreciate the reference.)

It may be feather-light in the hand, but it is anything but fragile. The marriage of advanced carbon fiber and Nitrobe 77 gives it a structural toughness that belies its weight. This is not delicacy — it is engineered resilience, refined to the point of invisibility. Hard as a nail, yes — but with the composure of something that never needs to prove it.

(And yes, it slices through plastic bottle bottoms like they’re made of warm butter…)

Ironically, its liner lock would also make it thoroughly unlawful in today’s UK. And yet, beneath its understated sophistication lies some remarkably serious engineering. The lock bar itself is crafted from Grade 5 titanium and fitted with a silicon nitride detent ball rated at an astonishing HRC 93. Tiny details perhaps — but precisely the kind that reveal the obsessive level of refinement behind a Des Horn folder.

And like all great luxury objects, it communicates identity.
Carrying a Des Horn does not suggest aggression or preparedness.
It suggests discernment.

I heard that among serious collectors, the 450# has acquired an almost cult-like reputation precisely because it avoids spectacle. Owners speak of the knife with unusual affection, describing it less as gear and more as a companion piece — something lived with daily and appreciated continuously.

(Des holding his personal 450# at a dinner after the SICAC 2025 in Paris…)

Over more than four decades, Des Horn has developed a design language that blends technical mastery with sculptural sensitivity. His work often incorporates rare materials sourced from Africa itself: Gibeon meteorite, pietersite gemstones, mammoth ivory, hand-engraved titanium, and complex Damascus steels. (His workshop is so clean you could eat on the floor.)

Yet despite these exotic ingredients, his 450# never descends into ornament for ornament’s sake. Even the most elaborate versions retain purity of line and proportion.
That discipline is what separates luxury from mere decoration.

(With no choil, Spirit actually offers more usable edge length than the Golden Child.)

Because true luxury has never been about being seen. It has always been about knowing.
And Des Horn knows.
He understands la part des anges — that invisible fraction of perfection that can never be fully owned, only sensed. He understands the spirit of a blade not as an object, but as a living balance of steel, geometry, heat, and intention.
And perhaps that is what sets his work apart: not just mastery of materials, but an almost philosophical restraint — the ability to let excellence remain quiet.

Spirit pictured between a Spyderco Proficient and Pekka Tuominen Urban II.

Des Horn showcasing one of his true gems of a knife.

Folders, Review

PARA MILITARY® 2 LIGHTWEIGHT BROWN CPM 15V® SPRINT RUN® — Let there be light again ! Part 1

09/05/2026 nemosandman 6 Comments

There are knives that become products, and there are knives that become dialects.
The Spyderco Para Military 2 since its inception belongs firmly to the second category.

For sixteen years, the PM2 has occupied a rare position in the knife world: not merely respected, but culturally embedded. Made in Golden Colorado USA Earth, designed in the lineage of the original C36 Military model and its offspring the Paramilitary 1 from 2004, the Paramilitary 2 refined the formula into something more agile, more urban, more universally wearable.
Key improvements introduced in 2010 were:
Ergonomics: Thinner, refined G-10 handle.
Mechanism: New Bushing Pivot System for smoother action.
Clip: 4-position pocket spoon clip.
Blade: Slightly thinner blade profile with an elongated tip.
From there, the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 quickly established itself as a modern classic in the knife industry. It also became the most compelling ambassador for Spyderco’s in-house Compression Lock system, turning simple fidgeting into something unexpectedly addictive.

Its full-flat, leaf-shaped blade geometry delivers near-universal utility — a fine, precise tip paired with a confident, efficient cutting edge. In use, it feels less like compromise and more like calibration.

And then there is the ergonomics: that unmistakable Spyderco palm swell and forward choil, which transform hard tasks into something almost composed, almost effortless.

Even AI now generates imaginary PM2 variants — sometimes hilariously inaccurate ones with back locks — which says a lot about how deeply the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 has embedded itself into modern knife/EDC culture.

Because the PM2 was never just a tactical folder. It became the Porsche 911 of contemporary EDC: instantly recognizable across a room, endlessly reinterpreted, yet impossible to mistake for anything else but one of the Spyderco Millie family.

And yet, for all its success, the classic PM2 always carried a subtle contradiction.
It was a knife celebrated for everyday carry that still weighed like a “serious” tool. A tool which floats like a butterfly but sting like a bee.
So, the same process which turned its little brother Para3 G10 into Para3 Lightweight has been applied: get rid of G10 scales and bring the Fiber Renforced Resin / FRN !

The new Spyderco Paramilitary 2 Lightweight changes that entirely.

At roughly 76 grams, the PM2 LW does not feel like a trimmed-down PM2.
It feels like an entirely different interpretation of the design.
To put that into perspective, it is even 16 grams lighter than the Spyderco MicroJimbo — a knife already considered compact and featherweight by EDC standards.

Compared to the classic G-10 PM2, the difference becomes almost startling: 32 grams gone, dropping from 108 grams to just 76.
That is nearly a 30% reduction in weight.

Edge-wise, the blade-to-weight ratio is remarkable — and decisively in favour of the Spyderco Paramilitary 2. 😉
Oh well, I’m joking — these two knives were never meant to compete.
They simply occupy different territories of utility, and both earn their place in my pocket for different reasons.
Still, this new Lightweight feels like the moment Spyderco finally allowed the PM2 to become what it was always destined to be: not merely lighter, but almost spectral. The Para3 LW vibes haves been compared to the Delica. The PM2 got the Endura’s: a ghost of a knife you completely forget is clipped to your pocket… until the exact second you need it.
Another clue?
The clip.
Look closely.

The deep-carry clip makes the knife feel even stealthier in the pocket, almost invisible in daily carry.
Tip-up only, though.
It’s not exactly a pocket shredder, but it’s not the gentlest on pocket seams either — even if the clip geometry and FRN patterning have clearly been tuned to make deployment and carry as smooth as possible.

In my view, the central “medallion” on the Spyderco Para 3 (pictured here) feels more refined and better resolved visually. It has a cleaner, more intentional integration into the design.

Here, on the PM2, it simply reads “Para Military 2” — which feels oddly understated. Curiously, the Spyderco name itself is nowhere to be found on that element, a surprising omission for such an iconic model.

But then again, this is exactly the kind of detail enthusiasts obsess over.

Personally, I prefer the FRN molding of the Spyderco Para 3 Lightweight in the epicenter of the pattern — it feels slightly more refined and cohesive. On the other hand, I find the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 Lightweight superior around the Compression Lock interface and the access to the Spyderhole, both of which feel more open, more natural, and ultimately more satisfying in use.

The handle transformation comes primarily through the FRN handle — fiberglass reinforced nylon — a material longtime knife enthusiasts still love to debate with almost religious intensity. Traditionalists often associate premium folders with layered G-10, titanium, or carbon fiber. FRN, by comparison, can seem almost too practical, too honest about its intentions. Forums discussions around Spyderco’s lightweight models reveal the familiar divide: some users still perceive FRN as less luxurious, while others praise its traction, comfort, and remarkable reduction in carry fatigue.
One thing is certain: FRN brings a significant leap in ergonomics.

You can see how the design has been subtly refined to erase the boxy, almost overbuilt feel of the G-10 version.
Spyderco’s history with FRN stretches back through legendary lightweight models like the Spyderco Delica, Spyderco Endura and the Spyderco Salt Series — knives that became icons precisely because they vanished into the pocket while remaining utterly dependable in dirty, wet, unforgiving environments.
The people at Golden has spent decades refining FRN into something uniquely their own. On a Spyderco, FRN is not budget plastic. It is engineered utility.
The texture, invented by Sal Glesser, is the key.

That bidirectional pattern grips the hand with a kind of mechanical confidence — less refined than blasted titanium perhaps, but more secure when life becomes sweaty, cold, rushed, or imperfect.

What makes the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 Lightweight genuinely fascinating is not merely its weight reduction, but the engineering compromise Spyderco somehow refused to make.
Because removing mass from a back lock or liner lock is relatively straightforward.
Removing mass from a Compression Lock platform is something else entirely.
The Compression Lock is one of the defining mechanical signatures of Spyderco — a brilliantly elegant system designed by Sal Glesser that combines strength, fluidity and one-handed safety with an almost addictive tactile character. But unlike simpler locking systems, it traditionally depends on nested steel liners and a rigid chassis architecture.

In other words: it was never meant to live inside an ultralight FRN body.
That is the hidden tour de force of the PM2 Lightweight.

Spyderco did not simply shave material away from the classic design. They had to rethink how the Compression Lock itself could survive — and still feel reassuringly precise — inside a platform whose entire philosophy is flexibility, lightness and minimal structure.

FRN has a very different mechanical behavior from G-10.
It flexes differently. Resonates differently. Carries load differently.
The scale’s edges can feel a touch sharp/aggressive out of the box, but I usually knock the initial bite down slightly with my thumbnail.
Not a big deal.

And yet, in hand, the PM2 LW still delivers that familiar Compression Lock experience: the sharp metallic click, the secure lockup, the controlled drop-shut feel, the confidence under pressure. The knife retains the mechanical identity of a “real” PM2 despite having shed nearly a third of its weight.

That balance is far harder to achieve than most users realize.

Too much liner removal, and the knife begins to feel hollow or vague.
Too much FRN flex, and the lock loses its aura of precision.
Too much steel reinforcement, and the entire Lightweight philosophy collapses under its own contradiction.

Spyderco somehow threaded the needle.
In hand, the result is fascinating because the PM2 LW does not feel cheap, nor stripped-down. It feels optimized — almost industrially purified. As though the designers kept asking themselves a brutal question:
“How little knife can we leave… before it stops feeling like a PM2?”
And the answer, apparently, was 76 grams.

So who, exactly, is this new Spyderco Paramilitary 2 Lightweight really made for?
Not the collector seeking desk-jewel materials.
Not the enthusiast who wants maximal heft and polished mechanical theater.
This PM2 is for people who actually carry a knife every day and do not want to feel it in their pocket. Like a ghost… a spirit.
For the light traveler, moving through the world in technical fabrics and ultralight luggage — absolutely yes. The Spyderco Paramilitary 2 Lightweight is exactly on point.
For the architect, photographer, paramedic, cyclist, climber, sailor, or city commuter who notices every unnecessary gram.
For those in the field where every gram really matters — soldiers, paratroopers, operators, and anyone carrying their world on their person — the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 Lightweight makes immediate sense.
For the those who slips a knife into athletic shorts and forgets it exists until the moment it is needed.
And when needed, the action remains fluid , smooth and effortless, while the absence of heft is almost disorienting at first. This is where the name Lightweight stops being a designation and becomes an identity — carried here to its purest, most unapologetic expression.
Yes—there is something almost pure in handling this Spyderco Paramilitary 2 Lightweight, something slightly disorienting in its lightness. Almost paradoxical.
Elegant, refined, stripped to essentials — and yet fully present in the hand.
It doesn’t try to impress through mass or presence anymore. Instead, it disappears, and that absence becomes the experience itself.
As the late Mark Hollis (*) once suggested, “Only silence is more beautiful than music…” and in a strange way, that idea translates surprisingly well here.
This almost weightless refinement might be the closest thing cutlery has to silence: a design so resolved it no longer insists on its own existence, only its function.

The genius of the Lightweight is psychological as much as physical. A heavy knife asks for commitment. A 76 grams PM2 becomes invisible — and invisibility is the highest achievement in EDC design.

Ironically, reducing the weight also sharpens the very essence of the PM2 itself. The famous blade suddenly feels more dominant, more alive. Several early owners have described the sensation as though “all the weight is in the blade,” giving the knife a startling immediacy in hand.

Pictured beside a 120-gram Spyderco Military 2, the contrast becomes almost absurd.
Of course, the Lightweight will not seduce everyone.

Some users will always prefer the denser, almost bank-vault solidity of G-10 scales and full steel liners. Others simply enjoy the tactile indulgence of heavier materials. (I once installed Flytanium bronze scales on a Spyderco Para 3. The result was magnificent — and roughly as subtle as carrying a ship anchor.)

And that is perfectly fair, because the classic G-10 Spyderco Paramilitary 2 remains one of the greatest production folders ever created.

But the Lightweight introduces something unexpectedly contemporary to the platform: efficiency without compromise.

This particular example happens to be a Sprint Run equipped with CPM 15V — a truly high-octane alloy. Yet the steel is almost secondary to the broader philosophy behind the knife. Much like the celebrated 15V Para 3 Lightweight before it, this PM2 LW pairs one of the most extreme high-performance steels available with an astonishingly light 76-gram platform.

The CPM 15V Sprint Run is the enthusiast’s reading of the idea — a limited-production exercise in maximum performance taken to its logical edge. 15V itself borders on the extreme in the best possible way. With an unusually high vanadium content of nearly 15%, it was developed for exceptional wear resistance and outstanding edge retention. In Spyderco’s implementation, it is further elevated by Shawn Houston’s specialised heat treatment, identifiable by the discreet “Triple B” mark engraved on the blade.

The beautifully stonewashed blade arrives with an edge that is immediately convincing — thin, precise, and unmistakably sharp straight out of the box. In my experience, it may well be one of the finest factory edges Spyderco has ever delivered. Hair-popping performance is effortless, almost casual, and geometrically speaking, even the informal “bottle” or light push-cut tests feel almost trivial. Much better than on my Para 3.

Oh well, the exotic steel may attract the headlines.
(As a bit of a steel enthusiast, CTS-BD1N on the “vanilla” Spyderco Paramilitary 2 Lightweight doesn’t really excite me — it’s solid, reliable, easy to keep razor sharp, forgiving but uninspiring. I wouldn’t seek it out like I would CPM Cruwear steel, but I’d never pass on a great design just because of it.)

But the real story lies elsewhere: the revelation that one of the most iconic hard-use folders ever produced can suddenly feel almost effortless, friction less… pure.

Not diminished.
Distilled.
Purified.
And distillation brings spirit.
Spirit is light.
And this purity is no lie.

Part II is here:
https://nemoknivesreview.com/2026/06/01/para-military-2-lightweight-brown-cpm-15v-sprint-run-part-ii-a-major-improvement-spotted-by-robin/

Disclaimer: This knife has been provided through Spyderco’s Ambassador Program, upon my own request. Thank you to the Spyderpeople for letting me review it.

(*) For a musician and singer, Mark Hollis is unusually interested in silence, in what could be described as the gaps and intervals between notes. To listen to Spirt of Eden (1988) and Laughing Stock(1991), the last two albums by Talk Talk, the band of which he was singer and principal songwriter for more than a decade, is to encounter a music of fragments and dissolution, his murmured vocals often simply fading away as a song does not so much end as expire.

Advice, Folders, Review

The Serrations of the Everyday — Notes on a Serrated Magnacut UKPK enhance with titanium scales.

22/04/2026 nemosandman 2 Comments

There are objects we own, and others that, through use, quietly become extensions of our hand. The UKPK in Magnacut—here in its serrated form, dressed in Heinnie’s Titech titanium scales—belongs firmly to the latter. Not a piece to be admired at a distance, but one to be lived with. Everyday. Tested. Carried without ceremony.
This tool is low profile but with an hungry edge.

What strikes first is the paradox. A familiar, ergonomic silhouette—born from a will shaped by strict legal constraints—yet delivering a level of cutting performance that feels anything but limited. That serrated edge does not flatter at first glance. It unsettles some, even repels others. And that is precisely where its relevance begins.

Because real life does not deal in ideal materials or perfect technique. A slice of cooling pizza, a stubborn thread, double-wall cardboard, an electrical cable—each offers a different resistance. Where a plain edge demands precision, serrations adapt. They bite and initiate cuts. From a caresse to firm push cuts, using thin SpyderEdge serrations is an escalation in my cutting intentions. I need that material to be cut fast !!
It helps a lot when you cut a label in a store without to be noticed (once you bought it of course…)

In this configuration, Magnacut reveals a deeper character. I had noticed it on the wonderful Chief Salt . Its reputation is well established, but it is in repetition—across mundane, unremarkable tasks—that it truly asserts itself. Edge retention ceases to be a technical metric and becomes something tangible.
Days pass, materials accumulate, and yet the initial sensation—a ready, immediate hungry bite—remains intact with a quiet, almost disconcerting consistency. That makes a real difference for an EDC.

It is telling that even its own designer, Sal Glesser, found himself rediscovering the knife through this serrated Magnacut expression.

Notice my “preaching to the choir” post 😄

This is a genuine sense of surprise at the endurance of the edge, accompanied by a nod to Larrin Thomas, whose metallurgical work made this steel possible. This is more than technical acknowledgment; it is recognition of a rare alignment between design intent and material innovation.

The titanium scales subtly shift the relationship further. The knife gains density, heft and presence. I just love that. It’s no more a lightweight though but the tactile experience becomes cooler, more deliberate. There is something almost architectural about it—a structure defined as much by its material honesty as by its purpose, ready to meet the unpredictability of daily use by sea, air or land.

Over time, what emerges is a quiet redefinition of the serrated edge itself. Long confined to specialized roles—rescue, rope, marine environments—it finds here a broader legitimacy. Not as an alternative to the plain edge, but as a different philosophy of cutting. More instinctive. More pragmatic.

I have felt the same with the Chaparral serrated, offering those performance in a lady/gentleman format. The UKPK offers a longer blade but a legal solution.

The serrated Chaparral brings this same idea into a more restrained, almost tailored format—slim, discreet, almost polite in profile, yet unexpectedly serious once it starts working. It’s the kind of tool that disappears into a pocket and reappears only when needed, delivering performance without ever looking like it intends to.

The UKPK serrated Magnacut, on the other hand, pushes the concept further in a different direction. Same underlying logic, but with more reach, more cutting length, more immediate utility when the task scales up. It’s not trying to be more aggressive—it simply extends the capability envelope while staying within a legal framework that forces discipline into the design.

Put together, they sketch an interesting continuum rather than a category:
the thinner Chaparral as refined minimalism with bite, the thin UKPK as everyday legality stretched to its most useful expression.

Different formats, same underlying surprise: serrations stop being “special-purpose” and start behaving like a perfectly normal, highly efficient everyday cutting system !

To reach for a serrated blade to cut burger or break down a box should no longer feel unusual. If anything, it is where this knife feels most at home. Its modernity lies not in spectacle, but in normalization—in making high performance feel natural within the ordinary.

The serrated Magnacut UKPK does not argue its case. It does not need to. It simply works—and in doing so, it quietly resets expectations.

Low-profile in the pocket, yet unmistakably assertive at the edge, it pairs a hungry, enduring bite with a reassuringly solid construction. All of it contained within a form that remains legally acceptable in many places—an understated balance of restraint and capability.

Advice, Folders, Review

Spyderco Edgerati part 2 – The KWEMRP That Commands Attention !

23/01/2026 nemosandman 1 Comment

The Edgerati is a knife meant to be seen. Concealed use is not its calling; it is designed to be displayed. This intent is immediately evident in the intricacy of its handle, crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum—a material currently coveted in both automotive and mobile technology. Its aesthetic is at once modern and authoritative, a subtle nod to industrial sophistication.

This folding cutting tool feels as though it stepped straight out of a James Cameron film—somewhere between The Terminator, Aliens, and Avatar. With its feather-light, aerospace-grade construction and unapologetically high-tech design, it belongs as naturally on Pandora—clipped to the gear of a frontier colonist—as it does in the pocket of a discerning collector. Sleek, precise, and unmistakably futuristic, it carries the kind of visual authority that would make it an effortless on-screen presence: a prop that doesn’t just look the part, but performs with the same credibility in the real world as it would under cinematic scrutiny.

The clip positions the knife prominently in the pocket, foregoing deep-carry discretion for confident visibility. For those who prioritize subtlety, this may give pause—but the Edgerati embraces its presence unapologetically. Lightweight yet commanding, it wears its virtues with pride.

What truly surprised me was the Edgerati’s rare equilibrium between strength and comfort—its balance giving the knife an almost living presence in the hand. I had anticipated something more cumbersome, even imagined that maintenance might prove tedious, yet the opposite is true. The Edgerati feels intuitive, effortless. Whether in the kitchen or deep in the wilderness, it performs like a seasoned workhorse. The blade deploys with immediacy and closes with a swift, reassuring snap, reinforcing the impression of a tool engineered with equal measures of precision and confidence. It’s the kind of knife my friend Sancho would appreciate—always eager to move fast and light, even when chasing joggers. (This is indeed a private joke… Sancho doesn’t actually run—he ambushes them.)

The geometry of the blade underscores its reliability: it cuts deep, precise, and confidently. Out of the box, the factory edge is nothing short of perfect—a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship that defines the Edgerati.

There is, admittedly, one small point of contention. While the S30V blade—expertly heat-treated by Spyderco—represents one of the finest expressions of this steel, I couldn’t help wishing for something a touch more adventurous. To be clear, CPM S30V remains a benchmark alloy, purpose-built for cutlery and still remarkably relevant. Yet today, we live in an era blessed with extraordinary newcomers—Magnacut, or even CPM MagnaMax. One can’t help but imagine, just for a moment, what the Edgerati would feel like straight out of the box with a MagnaMax blade: a true thunderclap, a statement heard across the knife world. For now, that dream must wait—but it certainly makes the prospect of future Sprint runs all the more tantalizing.

In the kitchen, hands are often wet—or worse, slick with oil. This is the ultimate test of a knife’s ergonomics: can it be drawn from the pocket and handled with confidence, without any risk of slipping? The Edgerati answers that challenge effortlessly. Its handle offers a subtle, almost rubber-like tactility under the fingers, and once in hand, it seems to lock naturally into the palm, inspiring immediate control even in the most slippery conditions. Just as importantly, its open construction makes the knife remarkably easy to clean under running water, while full access to the mechanical components simplifies maintenance and lubrication—practical virtues that reinforce its status as a true everyday tool.

And so, maintenance remains refreshingly straightforward: a single drop of oil can be applied directly to the detent ball path, ensuring consistently smooth action without the need to disassemble the knife. This is a clear advantage afforded by the knife’s unique design, offering genuine, everyday value to the end hard user.

I brought along my 1990s ATS-34 Sebenza and my Falcon to compare the weight and feel of these classic titanium-frame folders against the lightweight, aluminum-framed Edgerati.

The contrast is immediate: the Edgerati feels astonishingly light and well balanced in the hand, yet without ever compromising solidity or control.
Rest assured, I also appreciate the reassuring heft in the hand when handling “Honor”, and it’s precisely what made the Sebenza so successful: a sharp, reliable tool that is simple to disassemble, clean, and sterilize. (Click the links to explore its full history.)
And for the record, the Massdrop Falcon is the knife that ultimately prompted me to retire both the Techno 1 and Techno 2 from my “compact, robust folder” rotation. And truly—it’s that good.

I had initial concerns about that aluminum coating, but so far it has proven remarkably resilient. It shows no fragility, and the minor signs of wear blend seamlessly into the overall aesthetic. This is a knife that seems destined to age gracefully, acquiring character without compromising its refined appeal.

For those who appreciate a personal touch, customization is not merely possible—it becomes transformative. I chose to slightly round the spine of the blade, softening its edges and taming the aggressive upper jimping, using nothing more than a simple, coarse €5 diamond file. The result is subtle yet meaningful, enhancing comfort without compromising the knife’s character, and reinforcing the idea that the Edgerati welcomes thoughtful, owner-driven refinement.

Using the straight spine of the blade to push or gather ingredients on the cutting board is another advantage the Edgerati offers—something you simply can’t do with the Bodacious or the Shaman.

At 3.7 mm, the blade thickness may sound substantial on paper, yet the reality is far more nuanced. The Edgerati features a tall blade with a full flat grind, resulting in a geometry that is uncompromising straight out of the box. Thanks to its pronounced distal taper, the blade thins rapidly, delivering excellent cutting performance without any sense of excess material behind the edge. In that respect, it recalls me my Lil’ Temperance—4 mm thick, yet tall and very efficient. On a blade of this height, 3.7 mm translates to razor sharpness, with no penalty in use.
By contrast, the Shaman’s high saber grind required significant reprofiling to suit my preferences. Not so with the Edgerati—much to my own surprise. And considering that I routinely pair it with a Chaparral, one can easily gauge just how deeply I appreciate thin, efficient blade geometry.

The result is subtle yet immediately perceptible under the fingers, elevating both comfort and control and transforming the knife into something truly bespoke. The ability to tailor the Edgerati to one’s own preferences is not a mere convenience—it is an integral part of the ownership experience.

The Edgerati has proven itself a consummate workhorse, commanding respect far beyond the display case. It moves effortlessly from the precision of the kitchen—slicing sun-ripened tomatoes or conquering a stubborn squash—with the same grace and efficiency it demonstrates in the field, whether filleting fish, shaping kindling, or executing impromptu repairs.

Through every challenge—pictured here during my now-infamous “butt bottle” test—the blade retains its razor-sharp edge and the handle shows no sign of strain, a quiet testament to the knife’s meticulous engineering. It is a piece that draws admiration, and occasionally amazement, at first glance, yet continues to thrive under the most demanding real-world conditions—a rare and compelling union of refined elegance and enduring, work-ready reliability. This blade feels unmistakably powerful the moment it meets material.
Thanks to its more pronounced point and more efficient overall geometry, the Edgerati delivers deeper, more decisive cuts with noticeably less effort than the Shaman. Again, in my experience, every Shaman I’ve owned required edge refinement to meet my expectations; with the Edgerati, no such intervention has been necessary, to my own surprise.

In short, the Edgerati is not merely another elaborately designed folder, nor simply a lighter reinterpretation of the Spyderco Shaman; it is a statement of modern design—a precise balance of form and function that commands attention while delivering uncompromising performance.
One might even call it a KWEMRP: a Knife Where Elegance Meets Rugged Performance. 😉.

And here’s a video clip featuring Sonoya Mizuno that could have inspired the Edgerati’s design:

Also another design which is totally Sal Glesser passion: MACAN BOATS Aluminium Yacht and… they are Italians !!
Their aluminum construction is based on a mixed system of transverse and longitudinal framing, executed to the highest standards of quality. All scantlings are calculated and implemented in strict conformity with naval architect specifications, ensuring optimal structural integrity while preserving weight efficiency. Aluminum’s exceptional strength-to-weight ratio is central to this approach.

Welding is carried out by highly trained professionals recognized among the most experienced in the industry. Hull plating is assembled with exceptional precision, resulting in a fair, true hull that requires minimal fairing compound—reflecting both structural excellence and refined craftsmanship.
For them too, aluminium is the future, really.

Folders, Review

MANTRA™ 2 Titanium – C203TI – Still alive and kicking ?

23/01/2026 nemosandman 1 Comment

In 2026, does the decade-old Mantra 2 still have what it takes to stay relevant?

(For the record, the Spyderco Mantra 2 is a flipper-style folding knife. It features ergonomic twin titanium handle scales, a robust Reeve Integral Lock, and a lightweight open-backed construction. Its narrow drop-point profile suits a wide range of cutting tasks, and it opens quickly via an integral flipper and ball-bearing pivot.)

This question inevitably comes to mind when placing it next to the Edgerati, you know ? It’s that beautifully executed modern lightweight workhorse that embodies contemporary folding-knife design. On the surface, the comparison might seem unfair. The Mantra 2 belongs to an earlier design generation, one that predates today’s obsession with extreme lightness and visual minimalism. Yet, in actual use, the gap is far narrower than expected.

One aspect where Eric Glesser’s design continues to impress me is that blade-to-handle ratio. It remains among the most efficient in its class, extracting maximum cutting edge from a remarkably compact footprint. This efficiency translates directly into real-world ergonomics, with no sense of compromise in grip or control.

Pocket carry is another domain in which the Mantra 2 quietly exceeds expectations. Its footprint is remarkably discreet—once clipped in place, the slim, folded knife nearly vanishes. In daily carry, it becomes an almost invisible companion, a subtlety that even many newer designs struggle to achieve despite advances in materials and manufacturing.

A decade on, the Mantra 2 shows no signs of obsolescence. Rather, it stands as a testament to the enduring value of thoughtful fundamentals and intelligent proportions, which age far more gracefully than fleeting trends. It has been wielded in the kitchen, carried deep into the woods, relied upon as a traveling companion, and pressed hard into demanding materials—yet it continues to perform flawlessly, a quiet tribute to its lasting design.

Along the way, I decided to upgrade the Mantra 2 with a shorter mini pocket clip—the kind found on the Lil’ Native Compression Lock, the Microjimbo, or the Dragonfly. A seemingly minor adjustment, it nevertheless has a surprisingly tangible impact on daily carry, subtly refining accessibility and pocket presence without altering the knife’s elegant proportions.

The shorter clip further reduces the knife’s visual footprint in the pocket, enhancing an already discreet carry profile. More importantly, it improves comfort in motion, removing any unnecessary contact points while preserving secure retention, making the Mantra 2 feel almost weightless and effortless throughout the day.

This small modification feels entirely in line with the original design philosophy of the Mantra 2: efficiency over excess, function over spectacle. Rather than altering the knife’s character, the shorter clip refines it, subtly updating the platform without betraying its intent.

In a way, this simple upgrade underscores the enduring strength of the Mantra 2’s design. A decade on, the knife requires no reinvention—its fundamentals remain exemplary. One minor critique persists: I’ve never been particularly fond of the small Trademark Round Hole™, which tends to trap debris and demands occasional cleaning. Personally, I would have preferred a simple laser-engraved circle as Spyderco’s signature—subtle, elegant, and maintenance-free.

Even so, the knife’s core mechanics continue to impress. After ten years of regular use, the liner lock has not shifted a single bit. Its stability and reliability remain flawless, a quiet testament to Spyderco’s engineering and the robustness of the Reeve Integral Lock.

It is also worth remembering that the Mantra 2’s blade is crafted from CPM M4, a choice that says a great deal about the era—and the intent—behind the design. At the time, M4 was far from a marketing buzzword. It was selected for performance, not for trend alignment.

In use, CPM M4 still delivers what made it so respected: outstanding edge retention, a fine, aggressive cutting feel, and a toughness that inspires confidence during harder, more demanding tasks. Even when compared to newer powder metallurgy steels, it remains deeply relevant, particularly for users who prioritize cutting performance over corrosion resistance.

On this particular example, the steel is allowed to fully express its potential thanks to the work of my friend JD, who polished and sharpened the blade with remarkable efficiency. His edge work brings out everything M4 has to offer, resulting in a cutting performance that feels both refined and uncompromising. His skill is undeniable, and it shows immediately in use.

Of course, M4 comes with its own expectations. It asks for a certain level of care, a willingness to maintain the blade and accept patina as part of its character. Yet this trade-off feels entirely coherent with the Mantra 2’s tool-first philosophy. Rather than chasing stainless convenience, it embraces performance and durability.

A decade on, the CPM M4 blade reinforces the sense that the Mantra 2 was designed as a serious cutting instrument first—and as an object of design second. In 2026, that approach feels less dated than it does refreshingly honest.

Set against the PITS 2 in Böhler M398, the Mantra 2 reveals just how differently two knives can approach the same everyday cutting mission. Where the PITS 2 leans heavily into modern metallurgy, with M398 offering extreme edge retention and near-total corrosion resistance, the Mantra 2 counters with a more tactile, tool-driven philosophy embodied by CPM M4.

The PITS 2 feels engineered for low-maintenance efficiency: a steel designed to hold an edge seemingly forever, largely indifferent to environment or neglect. In contrast, the Mantra 2 demands engagement. Its M4 blade rewards attention, maintenance, and sharpening skill with a cutting feel that remains distinctly more aggressive and communicative.

In practical terms, the difference is less about absolute performance and more about attitude. The PITS 2 represents the pinnacle of contemporary refinement—clean, controlled, and technically flawless. The Mantra 2, meanwhile, feels more alive. It is a knife that invites use, interaction, and care, developing character over time rather than resisting it.

In 2026, choosing between the two is not a question of old versus new, but of values. The PITS 2 in M398 showcases where modern EDC design has arrived. The Mantra 2 in CPM M4 reminds us why performance-driven fundamentals still matter—and why some designs age not by fading, but by deepening.

Ultimately, the Mantra 2 (linked to JD review)remains an outstanding choice in 2026. Its exceptional blade-to-handle ratio and discreet, effortless portability continue to set a benchmark that many newer designs still struggle to match.

Notably, my own example—part of the very first generation—has never exhibited the slightest issue with its ball-bearing pivot. A decade on, it operates with the same smoothness and reliability as it did out of the box.

Proof, if any were needed, that strong proportions, intelligent engineering, and a focus on real-world use can stand the test of time.
The Mantra 2 is a pure flipper workhorse.

NemoKnivesReview

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