Spyderco’s C55 Starmate wasn’t just a knife—it was a statement. In the ’90s, it stood as a refined alternative to the Millie: same precision engineering, nested liners, CPM440V (S60V) steel, identical blade thickness, and uncompromising materials. Twins on paper, yet worlds apart in feel. The Terzuola captivated with its rugged, workhorse demeanor, while the Millie thrived on rapid-response agility. Then there was the C36—alive in the hand, delivering unparalleled penetration and slicing power. The Starmate, measured and deliberate, carried the quiet confidence of a blade built to endure.
I was happy to have a thick blade made of that alloy as I was afraid to snap it. I used it as my main edc in rotation with M2 AFCK, ATS34 Sebenza.
And soon, the steel—what we simply called “CPM”—revealed its true character. It held an edge far longer than anything we’d seen before. The initial razor-sharp bite dulled quickly, yes, but then it kept slicing, again and again, without faltering. At the time, this was revolutionary. CPM420V (S90V) was rare; it wasn’t until 1999 that I finally had the chance to test a Darrel Ralph design in S90V. The only way to bring it back to full razor sharpness? Fred Perrin’s backstand.
S60V felt like an entirely new animal. Its wear pattern was unlike anything we’d seen with ATS34, 1095, XC75, D2, or M2HSS back then—and that was thrilling. You could set out on a trip, leave your sharpener behind, and your Starmate would keep cutting for two full weeks without complaint.
Twenty years on, the contrast is striking: the Starmate on the left, the AFCK on the right. Titanium liners show noticeably more wear. That’s where Bob Terzuola’s genius comes in—his improved Walker LinerLock features a concave ramp on the blade’s lock face. Pioneered in his custom knives, this geometry delivers far greater strength and security than conventional flat lock ramps—and it’s showcased proudly in the Starmate.
Twenty years between those two great knives.
And 2026 with the M2 CPM15V.
The Starmate stands as a testament to Spyderco’s rich history of collaboration with one of knifemaking’s most talented and innovative craftsmen. In just two weeks, I’ll meet Bob Terzuola at the Paris knives show—an ideal moment to capture some photos and shoot a video right here.
NemoKnivesReview 