G-10 Raven impressions

[stap2211]

Just received this considerably slimmed and lightened Raven ... and have to say ...WOW !!! It seems to be the most sophisticated Byrd design yet (I've bought five models ... Robin(2), Crow, Raven(3),Cara Cara(4) and Wings(2)) and despite it classy appearance, I think it can be an all-around worker too.

Laid next to my UKPK (highly esteemed), it's just a hair thicker. Dual skeletonized liners support the medium-textured G-10 so that the overall stiffness is very good. I think of this knife as being an ultra-affordable Stretch-sized knife having a pleasing blade shape and taper combined with an excellently jimped choil design for a forward control grip. You can tell that it's about 25% lighter than the aluminum scaled iteration ... and much slimmer. It's an extremely well-balanced light-to-medium duty EDC that clips effortlessly (not too tight) and opens like a dream. The liner lock seems a bit too thin (not as stout as the Tenacious), but I like the narrowness of this area better than the wider Tenacious. It doesn't flop back and forth when pivoted between thumb and forefinger like the Tenacious does ... so it is easier to control with just two or three fingers if necessary.

But will it work hard? I think it will. The blade was ground with a 20 degree bevel on the left, 15 on the right ... to which I added about a 45 degree microbevel. My aluminum Raven came with a 25 (inclusive) grind that I liked better ... but this one is fairly uniform and can be tuned up gradually towards a 30/40 arrangement. Lock up is perfect so far ... with plenty of room for wear.

To my mind, the blade profile is right on. I like it's aesthetics more than my other mid-sized blades. The eye hole works great for opening ... easier than smaller Spydie holes. The handle is very much like a plain-jane Stretch II ... again ... near perfection. In my mind, there's nothing pretentious or overdone about this design. Right size, textures (nicely beveled G-10), tones, etc.

Anyway ... just wanted to make an initial shout-out contribution about this new Raven version ... and say hi to everyone. I'm a wildlife biologist and can't afford the ultra CF models. With this classy G-10 Raven ... I'm more than satisfied. Would I take it out in the field ... absolutely! I generally take a SE Temperance for mtn. lion protection and heavy duty backup. If I had to take just a folder, I might choose a CE Cara Cara (a workhorse for sure!) instead for it's thinner grind and fantastic serrations (more fluid, less spikey, I likey). But, overall, the Raven edges out the other Byrds I own ... in both appearance and function ... by it's classy, sharpened beak! It's a winner and absolute steal for $25-30 bucks!

By the way ... this is the best forum I've seen anywhere. I've learned so much from you all ... thanks always. Hope to contribute with pictures once I figure out how (Mr. Blondes posts are awesome). Thanks for your patience in reading this rambling late-night post (I often survey for spotted owls) I'll tighten things up next time when I review the most versatile lockback Byrd ... i.e. the Cara Cara. I love it so much, I'm getting a SE Rescue version to round out my working collection. Again ... my apologies for running so long with this first post (still buzzed from work).

With respect ... later on ... Shawn Tapley

[araneae]

Great review and first post. Welcome aboard.

[sal]

Hi Stap,

Welcome to the Spyderco forum and thanx much for the review. We really appreciate the feedback.

We are beginning the "refinement" process (CQI) on the byrd models. Our customers and our use of the product helps us to refine the models. The new G-10 raven with full skeletonized stainless liners, that you have, is the next evolution of that design (Raven).

We are planning on slightly thicker liners in the future. We're also working with the maker to create thinner angle edges.

I would be curious as to whether our customers prefer the small cut-out for the lock release, as on the Raven, as opposed to the larger "glove" lock relase opening that we use on the Military and Sage?

BTW, I also carry a Temperance for the same reason while walking on my mountain.

sal

[stap2211]

You're such a gentleman.

And always on point with succinct observations/suggestions.

Regarding the Raven's liner thickness ... an increase would make the Raven practically perfect ... offering an extra measure of psychological reassurance about it's function and longevity.

This Raven, the Cara Cara CE''s, the UKPK and the grey Wayne Goddard rotate most frequently as my field EDC's. As a bulletproof ultralight, I have relied on the Goddard because it does nearly everything well ... with great leverage, simplicity and reliability! Now ... this super-refined Raven ranks right up there with it ... and looks even better.

Thin factory edges have always been a delight with the Byrd knives It's why I'm so drawn to my Cara Cara CE's ... both G-10 (a tank) and FRN versions (much lighter with fantastic grip!). The included angle is less than 25* and the kitchen-type serration pattern works best for medium-duty slicing (as opposed to heavy-duty slashing) . My only disappointment with my waved Delica 4 was it's obtuse grind that I still haven't reprofiled yet (I use it as my "home improvement" knife). It would be a daily cutting delight with a 22* factory grind.

Later on, Shawn

[PaloArt]

First thing I want to say: many thanks for review.

Second (if I could)... When we are talking about refinement... what about change texture (could I call that so??) on byrd FRN handles... I know that is maybe stupid idea from me... but I really love volcano grip on spyderco so why not to do some better look on byrd??? FRN is really great material. Sorry for this post (maybe needless) and for bad english :o

[sal]

Hi p.jester,

Your English is fine.

We're in the process of refining the byrd FRN tooling. It will take a while to complete the new tooling and sell current inventory. The new texture will be more like the new Endura4.

sal

[PaloArt]

Oh thank you very much for such a fast reply Sal. This is really great new... I really look forward... my first spyderco was byrd cara cara SS (and only one unfortunately - no money but working on that). Spyderco is the best what I have ever hold in my hand (many knives in my hand :) ).

And thanks for compliment about my english :o but I don´t just want to insult you guys by some silly mistakes and rude behaviour cause I don´t now what is for you acceptable and what is not - not knowing is inexcusable... Sorry for off topic

[stap2211]

For araneae and p.jester 84: You're most welcome ... a pleasure in fact.

Regarding the charcoal black, deeply unidirectionally-stepped FRN scales of the Cara Cara (own two) and Meadowlark (that I've seen pictured):

1. It definitely works as a non-slip design when pressure is applied (which is the key to it's functionality). You're fingers skid across it easily when held lightly. Nice compromise... except that it makes the clip grab ones pocket with too much friction. I need to sand it more underneath.

2. The perimeter outside edge is not sharp ... but not well radiused either (like the Endura 3 and Delica 3 masterworks ... volcano pattern at it's best!). Not quite as friendly to tender hands, but actually more controllable (because they are more squarish ... so they don't "roll" in you're fingers easily).

3. The dull black ribbed design is not as visually appealing as the volcano type IMHO. It works great but doesn't look great ... just OK. The best volcano type handle I've seen is of the grey Wayne Goddard. Looks great and hyper-comfortable all the way around. The upcoming white scaled WGjr. looks fantastic BTW. Very, very sweet.

Lastly ... the deeply scalloped handle cutouts for access to the liner locks ... they leave a zone of instability just where you don't want one. I much prefer a fuller design with less cut out ... like the Raven. I want to embrace the Tenacious as an EDC because of it's wonderful blade design, but it's sharp G-10 edge behind the sprung liner is too sharp ... creating a wobbly spot in the overall grip dynamics of that handle ... which is otherwise very good in terms of fit and leverage for my hands.

Later on, Shawn

[cobrajoe]

Great review on the raven! It is actually one of my favorite byrds (I haven't tried them all yet :p ), and I'm glad to hear that the G-10 version is more favored than the aluminum version. I gave a PE to my dad and had a CE for a long time before I traded it (kinda sorry I did, but I guess I replaced it with a stretch I :D ). I also really love the thin edge that the raven had, combined with the high hollow grind, it made for one easy slicing knife :D

Sal, glad to hear that the byrds are seeing improvement. I'm a huge fan of both the knives in that lineup, and the inexpensive quality they have. As for the lock access, I enjoy both styles, wide open (like the mili) and mostly closed (like the raven/crow). I enjoy the variety among the models and between the spyderco and byrd brands. The lock access on the raven made it sufficiently easy for me to close.

[Raqudu]

I would be curious as to whether our customers prefer the small cut-out for the lock release, as on the Raven, as opposed to the larger "glove" lock relase opening that we use on the Military and Sage?

Coincidence - UPS delivered an aluminum-handled Crow as I was reading this. I have developed a definite fondness for liner locks, due primarily to my Military. With Spyderhole and liner lock, it is, IMHO, the perfect one-hand knife setup. Now having seen both types of lock release cutout, Crow and Military, I definitely prefer the larger "glove" lock release cutout.

[A.P.F.]

Welcome, Shawn! Thanks for your excellent review on the Raven, as it is one of my favorite Byrds. In fact, it was the great fit and finish, smooth solid opening and wonderful ergonomics that prompted me to buy almost the entire flock.

As for the cutout for the liner lock, I think that it is great as it is.

[stap2211]

[ATTACH]11176[/ATTACH]

[ATTACH]11177[/ATTACH]

Well ... I can't actually see them ... but let's see if these two make it into the post.

Alright ... they made it in ... yes! The second photo depicts the blade as being shortened due to angled perspective ... it's actually about 3.5 inches long with about a 3.0 inch edge.

[stap2211]

[ATTACH]11178[/ATTACH]

Had to crop it a bit to fit the 100 KB limit. This picture shows the Raven with better perspective ... but note that the choil is actually a nice arc with plenty of room. This shows it somewhat angled ... so it appears as if the front of it is too flattened. My battery ran low before I got it quite right.
Later on, Shawn

[sixheads]

I get my sharp maker, and new raven next wensday.Thank you for this post i can look at it every 5 minutes untill then. I have three Robins frn, g10, ss, and just got an Endura 4 camo Green . I love the endura My first real Spydie but its to nice to carry with me on the road for work. I was finding the Robins a little small (but Great) So this New Raven will be my new weekly edc. I cant wait.

Sixheads

[mrappraisit]

Shawn, the Byrd's are an amazing value for sure. There are so many people buying junky truckstop type knives for the same money and not getting the moneys worth, it's a shame. Anytime you want to post Pueo pic's feel free, they are one of my favorite bird's.

[sixheads]

Does the Raven have an open back?

Sixheads

[sal]

Does the Raven have an open back?

Sixheads

Yes,

The Raven & Crow both have open-backs, with turned stand-offs. This particular maker is trying very hard to make excellent product for us. He is a knife afi himself, as well as a steel junky. He makes the Raven, Crow & Starling.

While we're on the subject, what "improvements" can you think of that would make the Raven & Crow a safer, better performing, more reliable cutting tool?

sal

[Raqudu]

The washers on each side of the blade on my aluminum Crow seem a bit thick - .57mm per side vs. .25mm on my Para. Lockup is tight and there is no noticeable blade play, really just aesthetic. It makes the Crow just a bit thicker than it needs to be.

Still, the Crow/Raven series are a great value for money and also very pleasing to the eye. The Comet Hole on the Crow seems to flow with the design better than any other Byrd, IMO, and I really like the feather pattern of the aluminum handle. A similar pattern, with the feather-inspired center rib, would be great in FRN for a lighter weight knife. I did notice the turned spacers - a very nice touch!

[jag-engr]

While we're on the subject, what "improvements" can you think of that would make the Raven & Crow a safer, better performing, more reliable cutting tool?

Make the clip ambidextrous. I think the knife is a tad small to mess with four-way clip attachment, but currently the clip is only suited to RH carry.

[schofer]

Sal,

I don't have any suggestions about the Crow/Raven. But, please pass on to the maker that I've had two (!) starlings fail on me. I returned the first... and the replacement suffered the same fate a few months later. In both cases, the knife was mostly just hanging on my keychain... and had very light usage.

In both cases, the failure was identical: the metal spring fell out... so the lock would not return to its original position after being depressed.

NOTE: This was a while back... shortly after the starling was introduced. Hopefully these were early 'bugs'. I have a robin & meadowlark (& a delica 4) that are absolutely terrific.

Thanks for making such great products! I never put much thought into the quality (or safety) of knives, until I stumbled across your knives in an online store. Now I always have a dependable, high-quality tool on-hand. Much appreciated.

Best wishes,

schofer