Picked up a Spyderco Karambit ..... New in Box. What do I need to know?

[GotDogs]

Howdy All forumites,

I picked up a Spyderco Karambit ( C84P ) new in box. It came to me in a gun trade. Although it's ALL one would expect in a Spyderco, sharp, good fit and finish and a solid knife all the way around I dont know that it's a keeper. I knew that possibility might exist but I must say I was curious and am pretty impressed especially reading some old internet writings on this model ie: needs more stand-offs etc. That may be the case but you would have to Man handle to get any real flex at the pinky hole so to me it's a non issue. Are these collectors? Or are these just dogs that could'nt hunt? My SD card reader on my computer decided that today it was not going to read SD cards or I would have posted pics, cus as we all know if there arent any pics... it didnt happen. As a side note, anyone who knows how I can get my SD card reader reading again it would be much appreciated. Thanks in advance, John

[Onionman]

Is the plastic covering still on the handle? My NIB went on ebay in 2010 for about $250, so it is pretty desirable to collectors so long as it is in mint condition. I found that it looks better in a collectors case than as a user since there are only so many things a small curved blade can cut. I have another in my case for that reason.

Sorry about your SD reader. You might want to try to reboot your computer and try again. You can also use a different SD card just to make sure its the reader and not the card. If that doesn't work, you can replace it cheaply if you have a desktop. If your computer is a laptop, replacing it will likely be more expensive.

[spyderHS08]

all you need to know is that it is a bad *** knife and you should never ever part with it!

[tonydahose]

dont spin it with it open, you will cut yourself, just trust me

[Piet.S]

True that, and there are nerves and an artery where it wil strike if you are fooling with it.
And that tip goes deep.
I suggest you search some information about karambits.
Steve Tarani is a name to remember when it comes to this subject.
Did I say I love these little knives?

[God'sMyJudge]

what is the intended purpose of the design? fighting?

[GotDogs]

Is the plastic covering still on the handle? My NIB went on ebay in 2010 for about $250, so it is pretty desirable to collectors so long as it is in mint condition. I found that it looks better in a collectors case than as a user since there are only so many things a small curved blade can cut. I have another in my case for that reason.

Sorry about your SD reader. You might want to try to reboot your computer and try again. You can also use a different SD card just to make sure its the reader and not the card. If that doesn't work, you can replace it cheaply if you have a desktop. If your computer is a laptop, replacing it will likely be more expensive.

It had plastic film on non-lock side. I took it off as it was somewhat boogered up and I wanted to make sure that the s/s was'nt damaged. From end to end there isnt a mark on it.

Thanks for the responses, John

[GotDogs]

what is the intended purpose of the design? fighting?

Originally it was a farm tool .... that later developed into a fighter.

[KaliGman]

This should get you started:
http://www.albokalisilat.org/karambit.html

Follow the video link. Buy a trainer (Keen Edge Knives makes a pretty decent aluminum trainer). Practice a lot and then start some sparring drills with a partner. Get some personal instruction if possible. If you are ever in Ohio, look me up and I'll give you some pointers. I do not recommend trying to learn from video, and see video best used as a reference for those who have some training. However, aside from the link I posted to my website, I would suggest you look up Ray Dionaldo of FCS Kali (he has a few good videos out on the web and I believe a DVD or two for sale). Tuhon Ray is very good with a karambit and, if you get a chance to go to one of his seminars or training sessions, I would highly recommend it.

Good luck with your training,

Jon