New PM2 FRN

[8th_Note]

Is the feel of the PM2 FRN similar to the Seki City FRN, or more like the Manix FRCP?

I say in the middle. Something about Seki seems a bit more grippy and refined to me for some reason compared to Golden FRN (I have the Lil Native LW in hand right now) Nothing feels as cheap as FRCP. Manix LW was my first ever Spyderco and I'm glad I didn't put off the brand based on that experience alone! I just can't get on board with FRCP. Throw an "A" in the mix and do a word jumble and that's what I think of it

I know what you mean. I also prefer the Seki FRN, with Golden FRN just behind, and FRCP last. The Golden FRN feels harder and stiffer, as though it has a higher glass fiber loading. The Seki FRN is “softer” and just feels good in the hand.

I've had people tell me that I'm crazy for saying this exact thing. The Seki FRN just feels better. It does have just the slightest give which equates to tactile perfection

[Sharp Guy]

Is the feel of the PM2 FRN similar to the Seki City FRN, or more like the Manix FRCP?

I say in the middle. Something about Seki seems a bit more grippy and refined to me for some reason compared to Golden FRN (I have the Lil Native LW in hand right now) Nothing feels as cheap as FRCP. Manix LW was my first ever Spyderco and I'm glad I didn't put off the brand based on that experience alone! I just can't get on board with FRCP. Throw an "A" in the mix and do a word jumble and that's what I think of it

I know what you mean. I also prefer the Seki FRN, with Golden FRN just behind, and FRCP last. The Golden FRN feels harder and stiffer, as though it has a higher glass fiber loading. The Seki FRN is “softer” and just feels good in the hand.

I've had people tell me that I'm crazy for saying this exact thing. The Seki FRN just feels better. It does have just the slightest give which equates to tactile perfection

This has been discussed a few times since I've been on the forum. I feel the subtle difference people talk about. I still think the difference is the finish on the molds

[jasonstone20]

Man, a great knife gets better! Can't wait to get one to go with my Para 3 LW. If the PM2 Lw is anything like the Para 3 LW, it is going to be a fantastic knife.

[Red Leader]

Man, a great knife gets better! Can't wait to get one to go with my Para 3 LW. If the PM2 Lw is anything like the Para 3 LW, it is going to be a fantastic knife.

It is better. The centering is better, the detent is the same or better (just a skosh stronger amongst the examples I've handled, which is a good thing to me). They smooth up quickly just like the Para 3 LW.

The Golden FRN on the PM2 LW is just like the Para 3 LW, it is better than the FRCP on the Manix LW models, but feels just a hint less substantial and more plastic-y than the Seki FRN, and I'm not sure why. I don't know if it is the molds, but it's not really a gripe, just a difference. It might be simply perception due to the fact that most Seki FRN is backed by steel liners so it feels more substantial, versus the Golden FRN which is usually just by itself.

I do actually think that even with the bi-directional pattern, the standard G10 PM2 is more grippy, and that is mainly due to the blocky nature of the G10 model as well as the grippy flats on the G10 versus the smooth, rounded corners on the FRN of the new PM2 LW. It would not be hard to take a very fine tip soldering iron, and slightly dimple the texture on the smooth parts if more grip is desired. Still, I had no issues with retention of the knife and I played w/ one for quite some time. A world of difference compared to the smooth Bodacious scales or the smooth, contoured scales of the Shaman.

I asked the guys at the SFO about the rumors floating around about a CQI to the Para 3 to get the center better and whatnot, since the PM2 LW is a huge step up, but they said they hadn't heard anything.

If you get one, I think you will really like it.

[BeggarSo]

Well I bought the serrated one from Jeff @ CutleryShoppee. Love it. Then my friend went to Colorado and was able to stop at the SFO,at my insistence.

She wound up dropping $1,000.00 or more on her Spyderco collection and let me try her Green serrated Salt Wharncliffe.

Wow bought one last night, the I tried her PM2 light in Plain Edge.

Yeah ordering one from Jeff now. Great feel in the hand with these, it is like a different knife yet still the great PM2 we all know and love.

The BD1N is super slicey.

[jasonstone20]

Man, a great knife gets better! Can't wait to get one to go with my Para 3 LW. If the PM2 Lw is anything like the Para 3 LW, it is going to be a fantastic knife.

It is better. The centering is better, the detent is the same or better (just a skosh stronger amongst the examples I've handled, which is a good thing to me). They smooth up quickly just like the Para 3 LW.

The Golden FRN on the PM2 LW is just like the Para 3 LW, it is better than the FRCP on the Manix LW models, but feels just a hint less substantial and more plastic-y than the Seki FRN, and I'm not sure why. I don't know if it is the molds, but it's not really a gripe, just a difference. It might be simply perception due to the fact that most Seki FRN is backed by steel liners so it feels more substantial, versus the Golden FRN which is usually just by itself.

I do actually think that even with the bi-directional pattern, the standard G10 PM2 is more grippy, and that is mainly due to the blocky nature of the G10 model as well as the grippy flats on the G10 versus the smooth, rounded corners on the FRN of the new PM2 LW. It would not be hard to take a very fine tip soldering iron, and slightly dimple the texture on the smooth parts if more grip is desired. Still, I had no issues with retention of the knife and I played w/ one for quite some time. A world of difference compared to the smooth Bodacious scales or the smooth, contoured scales of the Shaman.

I asked the guys at the SFO about the rumors floating around about a CQI to the Para 3 to get the center better and whatnot, since the PM2 LW is a huge step up, but they said they hadn't heard anything.

If you get one, I think you will really like it.

Well, I like my PM2 still, even though I oversharpened it learning to use my Tormek T-4. Oh well, live and learn. A PM2 LW is more my kind of knife anyway, as much as I love the way Spyderco does their S30V, it sharpens so nicely, and apexes very easily, no fighting with it. As far as the centering on the Pare 3 LW, I didn't even know my centering is off until I read your comment. I was told be a support person on another forum for another knife brand. There was a question on how to fix the centering of the knife. This sounds weird, but it works. You might want to tape your blade or wrap in a hand towel or cardboard or something. What you do is look at the knife centering, and make note of which way the blade is off-center. Then, open the blade, and this is the part that sounds counter-intuitive, but you take the handle, and on the side that the blade was biased, that is the way you bend the knife, point down, either on the floor or a scrap piece of wood. Just light pressure, not a lot, just a little adjustment. Then go check the centering and repeat. I just did it with my Para 3 LW, and it was not easy, that FRN is still. I actually had to lean into it to get it to adjust, something I haven't had to do before. Another thing that I love, that is out of this world insane, is that Spyderco put a combat tip for backcuts on the Para 3 LW, at my example came with it, it was the Bill Bagwell bowie tip sharpening trick. I put this on all my knives, and when I get a new knife, this is something I look for. My mind was just blown to look through the loupe after testing the tip on my thumbnail, that sure enough, it was sharpened for doing backcuts. Well, once I save the money, the PM2 LW is the next on the 'to-buy' list I have in my head.

[BeggarSo]

I have been curious about the T4 can you tell us more?

Oversharpening a PM2? How is this even a" thing?"

Could you describe, perhaps show us this Bagwell Bowie tip?

[Red Leader]

Man, a great knife gets better! Can't wait to get one to go with my Para 3 LW. If the PM2 Lw is anything like the Para 3 LW, it is going to be a fantastic knife.

It is better. The centering is better, the detent is the same or better (just a skosh stronger amongst the examples I've handled, which is a good thing to me). They smooth up quickly just like the Para 3 LW.

The Golden FRN on the PM2 LW is just like the Para 3 LW, it is better than the FRCP on the Manix LW models, but feels just a hint less substantial and more plastic-y than the Seki FRN, and I'm not sure why. I don't know if it is the molds, but it's not really a gripe, just a difference. It might be simply perception due to the fact that most Seki FRN is backed by steel liners so it feels more substantial, versus the Golden FRN which is usually just by itself.

I do actually think that even with the bi-directional pattern, the standard G10 PM2 is more grippy, and that is mainly due to the blocky nature of the G10 model as well as the grippy flats on the G10 versus the smooth, rounded corners on the FRN of the new PM2 LW. It would not be hard to take a very fine tip soldering iron, and slightly dimple the texture on the smooth parts if more grip is desired. Still, I had no issues with retention of the knife and I played w/ one for quite some time. A world of difference compared to the smooth Bodacious scales or the smooth, contoured scales of the Shaman.

I asked the guys at the SFO about the rumors floating around about a CQI to the Para 3 to get the center better and whatnot, since the PM2 LW is a huge step up, but they said they hadn't heard anything.

If you get one, I think you will really like it.

Well, I like my PM2 still, even though I oversharpened it learning to use my Tormek T-4. Oh well, live and learn. A PM2 LW is more my kind of knife anyway, as much as I love the way Spyderco does their S30V, it sharpens so nicely, and apexes very easily, no fighting with it. As far as the centering on the Pare 3 LW, I didn't even know my centering is off until I read your comment. I was told be a support person on another forum for another knife brand. There was a question on how to fix the centering of the knife. This sounds weird, but it works. You might want to tape your blade or wrap in a hand towel or cardboard or something. What you do is look at the knife centering, and make note of which way the blade is off-center. Then, open the blade, and this is the part that sounds counter-intuitive, but you take the handle, and on the side that the blade was biased, that is the way you bend the knife, point down, either on the floor or a scrap piece of wood. Just light pressure, not a lot, just a little adjustment. Then go check the centering and repeat. I just did it with my Para 3 LW, and it was not easy, that FRN is still. I actually had to lean into it to get it to adjust, something I haven't had to do before. Another thing that I love, that is out of this world insane, is that Spyderco put a combat tip for backcuts on the Para 3 LW, at my example came with it, it was the Bill Bagwell bowie tip sharpening trick. I put this on all my knives, and when I get a new knife, this is something I look for. My mind was just blown to look through the loupe after testing the tip on my thumbnail, that sure enough, it was sharpened for doing backcuts. Well, once I save the money, the PM2 LW is the next on the 'to-buy' list I have in my head.

Yep, it's next on my list as well, in 15V. I think I've used a similar technique on maybe the LT3, some other knives as well. You were smarter than me, wrapping the blade. I'll have to make sure and do that. Funny thing is when I bought the knife, the blade was centered, but after moving the clip to the lefty side, it got off center. Oh well. Doesn't bother me a ton, I actually have that knife on me right now, happily.

You'll have to show us your PM2 LW when you get it. I played w/ one just the other day again at the SFO and they are winners for sure.

[Wallach]

My PM2 LW in BD1N arrived today from DLT. All I can say is that this basically fixed every issue I had with the original PM2 - switched to a wire clip, improved the ergonomics slightly, reduced the weight, and fixed the annoying lanyard tube design. Action and lockup on mine is fantastic out of the box, and the finish they are doing on BD1N for this model is excellent, somewhere between a bead blast and a stonewash finish, as if it were just stonewashed with extra fine material. This is probably the best FRN Golden has ever put out in terms of feel in the hand. Couldn't be happier honestly, only complaint I could even come up with is that the edges of the FRN along the spine are maybe a little sharp, but I don't really notice it in practice. Maybe the new king of LW models for me; absolutely will be grabbing more of this model in different steels.

[Red Leader]

My PM2 LW in BD1N arrived today from DLT. All I can say is that this basically fixed every issue I had with the original PM2 - switched to a wire clip, improved the ergonomics slightly, reduced the weight, and fixed the annoying lanyard tube design. Action and lockup on mine is fantastic out of the box, and the finish they are doing on BD1N for this model is excellent, somewhere between a bead blast and a stonewash finish, as if it were just stonewashed with extra fine material. This is probably the best FRN Golden has ever put out in terms of feel in the hand. Couldn't be happier honestly, only complaint I could even come up with is that the edges of the FRN along the spine are maybe a little sharp, but I don't really notice it in practice. Maybe the new king of LW models for me; absolutely will be grabbing more of this model in different steels.

One thing to keep an eye on is that D-ferrule for the pocket clip. Someone had asked if Spyderco had re-engineered that since there were multiple reports of that barrel getting stripped in the FRN on the Para 3, and it looks like they didn't change it on the new PM 2 LW.

[Wallach]

My PM2 LW in BD1N arrived today from DLT. All I can say is that this basically fixed every issue I had with the original PM2 - switched to a wire clip, improved the ergonomics slightly, reduced the weight, and fixed the annoying lanyard tube design. Action and lockup on mine is fantastic out of the box, and the finish they are doing on BD1N for this model is excellent, somewhere between a bead blast and a stonewash finish, as if it were just stonewashed with extra fine material. This is probably the best FRN Golden has ever put out in terms of feel in the hand. Couldn't be happier honestly, only complaint I could even come up with is that the edges of the FRN along the spine are maybe a little sharp, but I don't really notice it in practice. Maybe the new king of LW models for me; absolutely will be grabbing more of this model in different steels.

One thing to keep an eye on is that D-ferrule for the pocket clip. Someone had asked if Spyderco had re-engineered that since there were multiple reports of that barrel getting stripped in the FRN on the Para 3, and it looks like they didn't change it on the new PM 2 LW.

I have never owned a Para 3 LW; it looks like a Chicago screw to me, though. I don't think the FRN around it would be threaded?

[electro-static]

My PM2 LW in BD1N arrived today from DLT. All I can say is that this basically fixed every issue I had with the original PM2 - switched to a wire clip, improved the ergonomics slightly, reduced the weight, and fixed the annoying lanyard tube design. Action and lockup on mine is fantastic out of the box, and the finish they are doing on BD1N for this model is excellent, somewhere between a bead blast and a stonewash finish, as if it were just stonewashed with extra fine material. This is probably the best FRN Golden has ever put out in terms of feel in the hand. Couldn't be happier honestly, only complaint I could even come up with is that the edges of the FRN along the spine are maybe a little sharp, but I don't really notice it in practice. Maybe the new king of LW models for me; absolutely will be grabbing more of this model in different steels.

I’ll get the 15V version, I have the same complaints about the PM2

[BeggarSo]

What's to complain about? I've got 2 PM2 BD1N lightweights 1 PE and 1SE.

They are both stupid sharp out of the box look and feel great.

I cant believe getting hug up over a screw is really a thing.

Lets add a little context here what is it about the screw or something someone is trying to do with it that is a knock on a great design and finished product?

[Red Leader]

My PM2 LW in BD1N arrived today from DLT. All I can say is that this basically fixed every issue I had with the original PM2 - switched to a wire clip, improved the ergonomics slightly, reduced the weight, and fixed the annoying lanyard tube design. Action and lockup on mine is fantastic out of the box, and the finish they are doing on BD1N for this model is excellent, somewhere between a bead blast and a stonewash finish, as if it were just stonewashed with extra fine material. This is probably the best FRN Golden has ever put out in terms of feel in the hand. Couldn't be happier honestly, only complaint I could even come up with is that the edges of the FRN along the spine are maybe a little sharp, but I don't really notice it in practice. Maybe the new king of LW models for me; absolutely will be grabbing more of this model in different steels.

One thing to keep an eye on is that D-ferrule for the pocket clip. Someone had asked if Spyderco had re-engineered that since there were multiple reports of that barrel getting stripped in the FRN on the Para 3, and it looks like they didn't change it on the new PM 2 LW.

I have never owned a Para 3 LW; it looks like a Chicago screw to me, though. I don't think the FRN around it would be threaded?

Correct, my description is just getting lost a little. It is a smooth, D-shaped insert that is threaded on the inside to take a screw and that assembly secures the pocket clip. The FRN is molded in a D-shape to fit the insert to keep it from spinning. However, on the Para 3 LW people have attempted to switch pocket clips to the other side and after trying to loosen the T8 holding the pocket clip it, the FRN gets rounded out and makes extraction very difficult. It is the same design on the PM2 LW. Time will tell if we will see this same issue crop up on these knives.

[BeggarSo]

Ah good to know pocket clip swap, whew well safe here I love the wire clip and the way this goes in and out of the pocket, thanks.

[Cletus]

Just received this FRN PM2 from National Knives.
Drops free. perfectly centered and razor sharp. Great job Spyderco!!

[Cletus]

[BeggarSo]

That's what I did SE and then I tried a friend's PE Yeah I got that one too.

If your wondering well ya go for it.

[Wallach]

My PM2 LW in BD1N arrived today from DLT. All I can say is that this basically fixed every issue I had with the original PM2 - switched to a wire clip, improved the ergonomics slightly, reduced the weight, and fixed the annoying lanyard tube design. Action and lockup on mine is fantastic out of the box, and the finish they are doing on BD1N for this model is excellent, somewhere between a bead blast and a stonewash finish, as if it were just stonewashed with extra fine material. This is probably the best FRN Golden has ever put out in terms of feel in the hand. Couldn't be happier honestly, only complaint I could even come up with is that the edges of the FRN along the spine are maybe a little sharp, but I don't really notice it in practice. Maybe the new king of LW models for me; absolutely will be grabbing more of this model in different steels.

One thing to keep an eye on is that D-ferrule for the pocket clip. Someone had asked if Spyderco had re-engineered that since there were multiple reports of that barrel getting stripped in the FRN on the Para 3, and it looks like they didn't change it on the new PM 2 LW.

I have never owned a Para 3 LW; it looks like a Chicago screw to me, though. I don't think the FRN around it would be threaded?

Correct, my description is just getting lost a little. It is a smooth, D-shaped insert that is threaded on the inside to take a screw and that assembly secures the pocket clip. The FRN is molded in a D-shape to fit the insert to keep it from spinning. However, on the Para 3 LW people have attempted to switch pocket clips to the other side and after trying to loosen the T8 holding the pocket clip it, the FRN gets rounded out and makes extraction very difficult. It is the same design on the PM2 LW. Time will tell if we will see this same issue crop up on these knives.

Oh, I see what you're saying. Yeah, that isn't too much of a concern for me.

[Red Leader]

One thing to keep an eye on is that D-ferrule for the pocket clip. Someone had asked if Spyderco had re-engineered that since there were multiple reports of that barrel getting stripped in the FRN on the Para 3, and it looks like they didn't change it on the new PM 2 LW.

I have never owned a Para 3 LW; it looks like a Chicago screw to me, though. I don't think the FRN around it would be threaded?

Correct, my description is just getting lost a little. It is a smooth, D-shaped insert that is threaded on the inside to take a screw and that assembly secures the pocket clip. The FRN is molded in a D-shape to fit the insert to keep it from spinning. However, on the Para 3 LW people have attempted to switch pocket clips to the other side and after trying to loosen the T8 holding the pocket clip it, the FRN gets rounded out and makes extraction very difficult. It is the same design on the PM2 LW. Time will tell if we will see this same issue crop up on these knives.

Oh, I see what you're saying. Yeah, that isn't too much of a concern for me.

Me either, and I did switch the clip around on my Para 3 LW and fortunately had no issues. I suppose it might depend on how much loctite a particular assembler used.