The Lil' Temperance 3 Lightweight: A comprehensive review

[Bolster]

What does "handle forward design" mean?

No choil and the edge goes back as far as it can towards the handle.

Thx!

[p_atrick]

Here's a little update. The action on mine is getting much better. I have not adjusted any screws or added any oil. I've just been opening/closing the knife a lot. It is not like my PM2, and never will be. However, it is much improved than when first opening the box.

As much as I praise the handle for its comfort, it is a little "big" in my pocket. There's a real difference between it and my Delica (even the P4LW, which says something about that design). I still appreciate the feel in hand, but my front pocket feels a bit cramped. I wear slacks from Old Navy (nothing fancy) pretty much every day, and I keep a slim wallet and keys in the pocket with my knife. I've started to carry the LT3LW in my back-right pocket. So far so good.

[apollo]

Here's a little update. The action on mine is getting much better. I have not adjusted any screws or added any oil. I've just been opening/closing the knife a lot. It is not like my PM2, and never will be. However, it is much improved than when first opening the box.

As much as I praise the handle for its comfort, it is a little "big" in my pocket. There's a real difference between it and my Delica (even the P4LW, which says something about that design). I still appreciate the feel in hand, but my front pocket feels a bit cramped. I wear slacks from Old Navy (nothing fancy) pretty much every day, and I keep a slim wallet and keys in the pocket with my knife. I've started to carry the LT3LW in my back-right pocket. So far so good.

Its indeed Big in the pocket at least the first gen i have is , so i think that is good news since it stayed a “little Big” knife then. I am planning to get this one next year since i fear if the sales lack this wil be the last addition for a very long time and i love the design enough to one day ignore the hefty price tag.

[zuludelta]

It's been almost 5 months since I first got my hands on the LT3LW, so it's as good a time as any for an update.

The LT3LW SE has taken up a permanent spot in my work knife rotation alongside the Yojimbo 2 (the only other mainstay in the rotation). I will almost always reach for my serrated LT3LW instead of a Delica 4, Manix 2, Native 5, Para 3, or Shaman. Now, I don't think it's objectively head-and-shoulders above all those models (all of which are excellent knives, BTW), but I do find that the LT3LW occupies a sort of Goldilocks zone combining some of the best elements of those knives: It takes up only a little more pocket real estate than a Delica 4 & about the same as a Native 5 & Para 3 but has the "hard use" robustness & almost as much cutting edge length as the Manix 2 & Shaman, while offering a handle shape that is a better fit for my hand. And the serrated option helps compensate for the LT3LW being available in "just" VG10—a solid-performing stainless steel no doubt, but in plain edge, markedly lower in working edge retention compared to the powdered metallurgy steel & high speed tool steel options available to me in other models.

[cabfrank]

I normally go lighter, and the lighter weight Spydies are plenty strong, but, for some reason, this one really intrigues me. Also, I think SE VG-10 is great. I'm on the fence between this and the Stretch XL for my next purchase.

[p_atrick]

It takes up only a little more pocket real estate than a Delica...

I find the LT3 LW to take up a fair bit more in the pocket. The length is a bit shorter than a Delica, but it is a fair bit wider. To be clear, it does not dominate my pocket. To me, however, there is a very notable difference. I should note that I keep a slim wallet and keys in my front-right pocket. Things are a little too cramped with the LT3 LW when I have to search for something else in that pocket. So I started carrying it in my back-right pocket. I've gotten over the feeling of "oh no, my knife is missing" and things have been great.

The above is a such a minor nit pick. Once you get it in hand, the added width makes all the sense in the world. I do agree that this is a goldilocks model. So many things are "just right" for me. I know there are valid points to critique the knife, but I hope more people check it out.

[zuludelta]

I find the LT3 LW to take up a fair bit more in the pocket. The length is a bit shorter than a Delica, but it is a fair bit wider. To be clear, it does not dominate my pocket. To me, however, there is a very notable difference. I should note that I keep a slim wallet and keys in my front-right pocket. Things are a little too cramped with the LT3 LW when I have to search for something else in that pocket. So I started carrying it in my back-right pocket. I've gotten over the feeling of "oh no, my knife is missing" and things have been great.

Ah, I'm mostly a "back-pocket carry" guy outside of work (and the knife doesn't share space with any other items), so that explains the difference in our perception of its size in-pocket compared to the Delica. With back-pocket carry, I find that closed length is the major limiting factor since in almost all of my pants, back pocket depth is significantly less compared to front pocket depth.

[zuludelta]

I normally go lighter, and the lighter weight Spydies are plenty strong, but, for some reason, this one really intrigues me. Also, I think SE VG-10 is great. I'm on the fence between this and the Stretch XL for my next purchase.

I don't have a Stretch XL but have handled one multiple times. It's a great design and is absurdly light for its size. It's very competitively priced, too. Off the top of my head, I don't think you can currently get more VG-10 cutting edge per dollar at MAP than the Stretch XL, not just in Spyderco's line-up, but across most major knife brands as well.

Ironically, the one thing that's kept me from grabbing a Stretch XL is its size: I own a couple of 4"-bladed folders in a Police 4 Lightweight and a Yojumbo, and I already struggle to find justification to carry & use them regularly over an Endura 4 and a Yojimbo 2, respectively, outside of, "I just want to carry a big honking folder today".

The LT3LW is significantly pricier than a Stretch XL but it fills what I think is a more unique niche in the product line, and that is a sub-3 inch "hard use" folder with extensive MBC design inputs.

[Bemo]

Out of curiosity, do any of you owners of the LT3LW also own a RockJumper? I'd love to hear some comparison comments. Of course I think the LeafJumper probably is a closer comparison but seems few of those are out in the wild yet. Thanks

[Cl1ff]

Out of curiosity, do any of you owners of the LT3LW also own a RockJumper? I'd love to hear some comparison comments. Of course I think the LeafJumper probably is a closer comparison but seems few of those are out in the wild yet. Thanks

I was also pretty curious about this, actually.
It kinda seems like I'd really enjoy this one's handle and "cutting feel" based on my experience with my other Spyderco's like the Rockjumper and Caribbean.

[zuludelta]

Out of curiosity, do any of you owners of the LT3LW also own a RockJumper? I'd love to hear some comparison comments. Of course I think the LeafJumper probably is a closer comparison but seems few of those are out in the wild yet. Thanks

I was also pretty curious about this, actually.
It kinda seems like I'd really enjoy this one's handle and "cutting feel" based on my experience with my other Spyderco's like the Rockjumper and Caribbean.

I owned & regularly used a RockJumper for about a year. The only reason I don't have one now is I decided to move it on to someone who had a more pressing need for a good work knife.

The LT3LW & the RockJumper handles do feel very similar (the former is very slightly shorter and thicker). I actually made side-by-side comparisons between the original G10-handled LT3 & the RockJumper in this "first-impressions thread" from when the RockJumper debuted back in 2020, so you might want to read the initial post & succeeding follow-up posts to see my full thoughts as to how they are similar.

The TL;DR version: I think if the RockJumper works for your hand, the LT3LW will too for the most part. Holding it conventionally, the point of the RockJumper sits further forward and lower of course, because of its longer Wharncliffe blade.

[Cl1ff]

Out of curiosity, do any of you owners of the LT3LW also own a RockJumper? I'd love to hear some comparison comments. Of course I think the LeafJumper probably is a closer comparison but seems few of those are out in the wild yet. Thanks

I was also pretty curious about this, actually.
It kinda seems like I'd really enjoy this one's handle and "cutting feel" based on my experience with my other Spyderco's like the Rockjumper and Caribbean.

I owned & regularly used a RockJumper for about a year. The only reason I don't have one now is I decided to move it on to someone who had a more pressing need for a good work knife.

The LT3LW & the RockJumper handles do feel very similar (the former is very slightly shorter and thicker). I actually made side-by-side comparisons between the original G10-handled LT3 & the RockJumper in this "first-impressions thread" from when the RockJumper debuted back in 2020, so you might want to read the initial post & succeeding follow-up posts to see my full thoughts as to how they are similar.

The TL;DR version: I think if the RockJumper works for your hand, the LT3LW will too for the most part. Holding it conventionally, the point of the RockJumper sits further forward and lower of course, because of its longer Wharncliffe blade.

Thank you for reminding me of your thread!
I had to wait a little while to get ahold of the RockJumper and I think it will be the same for the LT3LW, but it's seemingly an inevitable acquisition.

[zuludelta]

Thank you for reminding me of your thread!
I had to wait a little while to get ahold of the RockJumper and I think it will be the same for the LT3LW, but it's seemingly an inevitable acquisition.

One thing to note: while the handle lengths of the RockJumper & the LT3LW are close, there is a measurable difference: the LT3LW handle is a couple of millimetres shorter than the RockJumper's. Something to keep in mind if your grip is absolutely, 100% maxed out on the RockJumper. The curve on the rear beak of the LT3LW handle is gentle enough that you can probably have your pinky partially hang off it with no discomfort, though, if it comes to that.

[Cl1ff]

Thank you for reminding me of your thread!
I had to wait a little while to get ahold of the RockJumper and I think it will be the same for the LT3LW, but it's seemingly an inevitable acquisition.

One thing to note: while the handle lengths of the RockJumper & the LT3LW are close, there is a measurable difference: the LT3LW handle is a couple of millimetres shorter than the RockJumper's. Something to keep in mind if your grip is absolutely, 100% maxed out on the RockJumper. The curve on the rear beak of the LT3LW handle is gentle enough that you can probably have your pinky partially hang off it with no discomfort, though, if it comes to that.

I really appreciate your astute responses.
Based on this, I'll probably be close maxed out with the LT3LW in my typical grips (For me that means the fingers have little to no wiggle room in a hammer grip). The RockJumper provides me just enough to have the flexibility I need in unconventional grips, but that is not something I need from other knives. A peculiarity of the uses my RockJumper will face (with me climbing around).
I also like or appreciate the handles that are secure with no wiggle room, and that is actually one reason I am interested in the LT3LW. Some might call that "cramped", but I think it can be a nice style of grip when done right.

[Ferruginous]

Now the not so great. QC out of Seki continues to be inconsistent. My two recently acquired K390 Delicas were superb. Perfect blade centering and all screws nice and tight. The Temp 3 is noticeably off center and none of the screws were even remotely snug. After snugging everything up I was almost unable to open the blade. It seems as though the blade stop crossbar is maybe a little short and snugging the screws on either side even remotely tight causes friction on the tang. In addition, the pivot screw cannot be even remotely snug without impeding blade movement.

I added blue locate to all the screws and let it sit for a day. The pivot screw and blade stop screws would otherwise have to be left with almost no tension. So now I have pretty heavy resistance on both open and close, and the blade is still off center. It's a great knife once it's locked open but probably the worst comp lock action I've ever experienced, and I've used and tuned a few comp locks. I honestly wish it was a backlock, which I much prefer.

Any folder I've had without the newer 'floating' blade stop pins was very sensitive about the adjustment of the blade stop pin screws. If they are too tight, it draws the frame/handles inwards and puts pressure on the pivot ruining the feel of the action.

It is my understanding that the "perfect" action of the new pivot bushing Spydercos comes at a cost - limited adjustability for wear or preference. If there is any blade play due to the washers being slightly undersized, tightening the pivot screw locks the action. Either they held the tolerances perfectly at the factory, when producing each part, or you have a choice between the pivot being loose (side to side play) or not able to open at all. Someone please correct me if I have this wrong? I've had several Para 2s, 3s, and a new military with side-to-side play that could not be corrected by adjusting the pivot - there was either side to side play, or no movement at all.

I prefer the traditional (non-bushing) pivot of the Lil' Temperance 3 because I can adjust the pivot to my preference, and I don't mind that the blade won't freely swing open and close.

I just placed an order for a serrated lightweight LT3, I've really been enjoying my S30V/G10 it's replaced my Yojimbo 2, Military, and Sage 5 Lightweight that I've been switching between for the last year or so. If the new lightweight LT3 has improved build quality over the S30V/G10 version, it will be my go-to folder for some time to come.

Based on this, I'll probably be close maxed out with the LT3LW in my typical grips (For me that means the fingers have little to no wiggle room in a hammer grip). The RockJumper provides me just enough to have the flexibility I need in unconventional grips, but that is not something I need from other knives. A peculiarity of the uses my RockJumper will face (with me climbing around).
I also like or appreciate the handles that are secure with no wiggle room, and that is actually one reason I am interested in the LT3LW. Some might call that "cramped", but I think it can be a nice style of grip when done right.

I train for hand strength, and wear XL gloves, and the LT3 is perfect (and I don't use that term loosely) for me. I am rarely able to make a folder work whose handle "wraps" around mine on the top and bottom (I'm looking at you, Manix XL) but the LT3 feels like it was tailored to my grip. Forward or reverse hammer grip, it looks like it was made for me. The only other secure knife, that hooks over and under my grip, that fits me so well is the Military model.

[RKD]

Question for Sal - as the designer of the LT3 do you prefer PE or SE for its intended use as a self defense and EDC folder?

[twinboysdad]

Now the not so great. QC out of Seki continues to be inconsistent. My two recently acquired K390 Delicas were superb. Perfect blade centering and all screws nice and tight. The Temp 3 is noticeably off center and none of the screws were even remotely snug. After snugging everything up I was almost unable to open the blade. It seems as though the blade stop crossbar is maybe a little short and snugging the screws on either side even remotely tight causes friction on the tang. In addition, the pivot screw cannot be even remotely snug without impeding blade movement.

I added blue locate to all the screws and let it sit for a day. The pivot screw and blade stop screws would otherwise have to be left with almost no tension. So now I have pretty heavy resistance on both open and close, and the blade is still off center. It's a great knife once it's locked open but probably the worst comp lock action I've ever experienced, and I've used and tuned a few comp locks. I honestly wish it was a backlock, which I much prefer.

Any folder I've had without the newer 'floating' blade stop pins was very sensitive about the adjustment of the blade stop pin screws. If they are too tight, it draws the frame/handles inwards and puts pressure on the pivot ruining the feel of the action.

It is my understanding that the "perfect" action of the new pivot bushing Spydercos comes at a cost - limited adjustability for wear or preference. If there is any blade play due to the washers being slightly undersized, tightening the pivot screw locks the action. Either they held the tolerances perfectly at the factory, when producing each part, or you have a choice between the pivot being loose (side to side play) or not able to open at all. Someone please correct me if I have this wrong? I've had several Para 2s, 3s, and a new military with side-to-side play that could not be corrected by adjusting the pivot - there was either side to side play, or no movement at all.

I prefer the traditional (non-bushing) pivot of the Lil' Temperance 3 because I can adjust the pivot to my preference, and I don't mind that the blade won't freely swing open and close.

I just placed an order for a serrated lightweight LT3, I've really been enjoying my S30V/G10 it's replaced my Yojimbo 2, Military, and Sage 5 Lightweight that I've been switching between for the last year or so. If the new lightweight LT3 has improved build quality over the S30V/G10 version, it will be my go-to folder for some time to come.

Based on this, I'll probably be close maxed out with the LT3LW in my typical grips (For me that means the fingers have little to no wiggle room in a hammer grip). The RockJumper provides me just enough to have the flexibility I need in unconventional grips, but that is not something I need from other knives. A peculiarity of the uses my RockJumper will face (with me climbing around).
I also like or appreciate the handles that are secure with no wiggle room, and that is actually one reason I am interested in the LT3LW. Some might call that "cramped", but I think it can be a nice style of grip when done right.

I train for hand strength, and wear XL gloves, and the LT3 is perfect (and I don't use that term loosely) for me. I am rarely able to make a folder work whose handle "wraps" around mine on the top and bottom (I'm looking at you, Manix XL) but the LT3 feels like it was tailored to my grip. Forward or reverse hammer grip, it looks like it was made for me. The only other secure knife, that hooks over and under my grip, that fits me so well is the Military model.

As a grip nerd, what all do you do for grip training? Big on levering and pinch griping here- less on crushing

[Bolster]

Very interesting writeup, thank you! I have a niggle--unimportant, minor--but a niggle all the same:

“…Lil’ Temperance 3 Lightweight is a formidable 'hard use' cutting tool with virtually the same cutting edge length as the much larger and heavier Manix 2…”

Shouldn't we compare LW to LW? If so:

LT3LW: 3.8 oz
M2LW: 2.9 oz

The LT3LW is over 30% heavier than a Manix LW.

You're correct that the Manix is longer in the pocket (closed dimension 4.7") than the LT (closed dimension 4.4") but I'm not sure 0.3" qualifies the Manix as "much larger" when you factor in the LT's additional weight.

Yes, cutting edge is very similar as you say, thanks to the Manix' generous index choil. However blade length (a consideration in SD) favors the Manix, which gets its edge out there by another half inch:

LT3LW: 2.9"
M2LW: 3.4"

My read is that the Manix 2 LW is a little longer in the pocket, but lighter. Without a side-by-side, I can't really speak to the tallness of the handles, but I get the impression the LT3LW is fairly tall. (So is the Manix.)

Niggle aside, great review and an interesting knife, the LT3LW. I'm trying to decide if it's for me, and to understand why the folks on the forum like it so much. It sounds like a knife you have to hold before deciding if it's for you.

[cabfrank]

Sadly, many of us can't hold most Spydercos to decide if they're for us.
Happily, we usually like them anyway.

[rgc]

At first I was thinking the Shaman in 15v would a great knife for me to grab as I like hard use or beefier folders, however, saw the LTLW in K390 and was intrigued. So I went and read through this thread on the original LTLW and having done son I think I am fully in this camp as a hard use folder and will get on of the new ones when they are released in K390. Heck, it will match the K390 Enuff 2 that I knew right away would be coming home with me.

All this to say thanks for a good thread to read guys and helping me narrow down my decisions.

ps. and yes I know the shaman in 15v will be a blood bath to get in on but I don't let that influence my desires, if it was meant to be it was meant to be.