A full Spydie conversion.

Discuss Spyderco's products and history.
DasFriek
Member
Posts: 67
Joined: Sun Feb 06, 2011 7:04 am

A full Spydie conversion.

#1

Post by DasFriek »

Over the last few months ive picked up a few Spyderco's when i saw a good deal, But nothing expensive or top end quality.
Old ATS55 Delica
Spyderco Persistence
And a HoneyBee as its just too cute to pass up.
Ill talk about these knives quickly, Mainly the HoneyBee.
I know its a $8 knife and is razor sharp and shaves my arms and legs as good as my Sebenza, But it gets dull faster than teachers in High school.
My question is, Is the blade hardened on this knife? Sure i can fix it with 6 swipes freehanded on my ceramic rod, But i love the knife so much i really use it more than most people would.
Am i alone in seeing this?
Maybe i need to buy another one so i have a hair popping sharp one on hand at all times. Really i like this knife ALOT!


To the good stuff and the main reason for the post.
Over the past 3 years ive been off and on with knife collecting even if it was just owning 3 knives i made sure they were high quality ones.
Most of the time its almost exclusively been Benchmade items. But after buying and trying all the ones i liked ive run out of choices with them, Except the 3800 they are doing from the disco'd Lone Wolf Tactical.

In my searching for new companies ive come up with two, Spyderco and Zero Tolerance. For the sake of the thread ill just discuss Spydie products.
I just sold off 3 knives on ebay to help fund some new steel, Two of which are Spydies.
1. Gayle Bradly CF M4
2. Manix 2 from Stag Arms in DLC coated S30V blade and dark green G-10 handle.

The Bradley was a no brainer at $135 for CF and M4 steel as i don't own any knife with either of those items. I just love all the options and different materials Sal put in his products.

The Manix was by luck i found out they had an S30v DLC coated blade version even tho it was $40 more than a CPM154 DLC version.
Its sure to be a collector, But i do have a question.
On all my knives i only have black handles, Two ive dyed black myself which came with shades of green originally.
what id like to know is, Even tho this knife will be lightly used and carried. Will dying the G10 black hurt its overall resale value past it being slightly used?

I know if i was trying to sell it as NIB it couldn't be sold that way if i dyed it as its no longer new. But if it was in perfect condition but had the dyed black G10 do you think it will take a big hit value wise?

Im really anxious to get these in and get to know some high quality Spydies for once. Plus there are others i want later so i dont see me becoming bored with the companies product line like I did with the last one.

BTW Stag Arms still has the Manix 2 in S30v for $135 +$6 shipping if anyone is interested as i just got off the phone with them as i wanted to be sure they had them in stock.
jossta
Member
Posts: 1415
Joined: Tue Oct 21, 2008 9:50 am

#2

Post by jossta »

I'm pretty sure that dying it will def affect resale. Anything other than 100% original will be worth less. How much less is debatable though. Of course, there is always the chance that you will find someone looking it with black handles that wouldn't mind paying for it.
DasFriek
Member
Posts: 67
Joined: Sun Feb 06, 2011 7:04 am

#3

Post by DasFriek »

I think ill give the dye job a second thought as that knife will definitely increase in value. But im gonna use it also so it will be devalued there anyhow. It will just depend on how dark that green is i think.

Anyone know much about if the Honeybee's blade is actually hardened or just not hardened alot? Its such a perfect size for man grooming and cutting small things a full sized knife feels unwieldy doing intricate work.

Ive never held a Bradley so can you tell me if its a one hand flick-able knife?

Also i always like to disassemble all my knives and clean them thoroughly from the factory and reapply CRK florinated grease, What id like to know is will the Manix 2 gonna be more of a pain taking it apart and putting it back together than its worth doing this to it?
Mainly im referring to the lock and getting it back together well.

While im at it, Anyone know of a specific Spydie that has "great" too "rare" blade steel and is a type that will increase in value and yet be a great user also.
I know that leaves alot of choices, But im sure some of you have one knife you think was the best purchase you ever made?
$100-$125 range if possible, Lower is better but good knives aren't cheap.
User avatar
Emcee Bunzing
Member
Posts: 27
Joined: Thu Jul 22, 2010 3:34 am
Location: NSW, Australia

#4

Post by Emcee Bunzing »

DasFriek wrote:
Ive never held a Bradley so can you tell me if its a one hand flick-able knife?
I have a gayle bradley and i could flick it open incredibly fast using only the tip of my thumb, no wrist action, straight out of the box. it can be flicked using only the wrist (like a customs officer would do if you live somewhere 'flick knives' are considered restricted imports) but its a bit hit and miss unless you do it really hard (which for me constitutes mild abuse) because of the detent holding it closed. also its my favourite spydie at the moment mainly because of the CPM-M4 steel it just keeps an edge like no other, but some people have issues with the handle.
You are only as sharp as your knife. "Life is short. If you don't stop and look around... and do whatever you want all the time... then you could miss it."
DasFriek
Member
Posts: 67
Joined: Sun Feb 06, 2011 7:04 am

#5

Post by DasFriek »

Ill do some searches for why some dont like the handle, But feel free anyone to inform me.
I got alot of Spyderco research tonight anyhow as im always looking for my next knife.
User avatar
jackknifeh
Member
Posts: 8412
Joined: Fri Jul 09, 2010 6:01 am
Location: Florida panhandle

#6

Post by jackknifeh »

DasFriek wrote:Ill do some searches for why some dont like the handle, But feel free anyone to inform me.
I got alot of Spyderco research tonight anyhow as im always looking for my next knife.
I'm not a collector so my comments may not apply to what you are looking for. As far as a next knife I'd suggest looking into a Manix. There are a lot of different models with different blade steel, handles, colors, etc. Some are sprint runs, limited editions through one web site reseller, etc. I only have one. I got it about a week ago and it is the "one" knife to own if I had to get rid of all others. That is based on a limited experience with knives. I don't collect, I use. The one I bought has M4, FFG, G-10 tan scales. It is only available on bentoboxshop.com originally. They are now found on ebay but were purchased recently from bentobox and the price is higher of course. I'm going to get another Manix2 or two with different blade steel, grind or something. Anything I buy though I plan to use so resale value isn't important to me. Do a search on Manix on this forum and you'll see plenty to read.

Jack
DasFriek
Member
Posts: 67
Joined: Sun Feb 06, 2011 7:04 am

#7

Post by DasFriek »

jackknifeh- I appreciate the suggestion, But ive already taken that advice in my first post.
I too dont always read every darned post in a thread and miss some key info along the way.
Anyhow, Yesterday i ordered a Stag Arms Manix 2 with dark green G10 handles and Black DLC S30v blade. It cost me pretty close to $50 more than an all black DLC CMP154 version.
But i think the upgraded steel will eventually pay for itself in resale value.

Honestly i didn't like the looks of the the Bentobox M4 Manix, Plus i had just ordered a Gayle Bradley with M4 steel so i wasn't so determined to get that steel at the moment.

Im actually a big fan of Cmp154, But will buy so called "higher end" steels for increased value reasons. But for an EDC i like 154 for its good edge retention and ease of sharpening and its lower cost.

I try and not buy more than 1 of any knife style, So ill have to be looking for another Spyderco to buy next. The Sage 2 and Military are neck and neck at the moment, But im waiting for my finances to settle after just buying three knives as i bought a ZT 0300 also.

But im still looking for 1 more knife as i still have room in my budget.....I think :)
So ill be looking for odd versions of the Sage 2 and Millie with upgraded steels if they exist.

Last month i had to borrow money to live on for the month as i got carried away with knife buying without paying attention to what was left to live on as i only get paid once a month.

I still haven't gotten and answer on one thing tho, Has anyone else seen soft blade steel in the Honeybee? Mines good for one use and then it dulls enough to no longer shave hair.
Id just buy another one as i love this little bug on my end table to make delicate cuts when a full sized knife is just to large and unwieldy.
User avatar
jackknifeh
Member
Posts: 8412
Joined: Fri Jul 09, 2010 6:01 am
Location: Florida panhandle

#8

Post by jackknifeh »

DasFriek wrote:
I still haven't gotten and answer on one thing tho, Has anyone else seen soft blade steel in the Honeybee? Mines good for one use and then it dulls enough to no longer shave hair.
Id just buy another one as i love this little bug on my end table to make delicate cuts when a full sized knife is just to large and unwieldy.
I have a Spyderco Bug with 3CR steel at 54-56 Rc on my keychain. I sharpened it as soon as I got it but haven't used it enough to see how it holds an edge. The Honeybee has the same steel. I'm no expert but what I've noticed with most steels is the hair popping or shaving edge goes fast leaving a long lasting "working" sharp edge. Most knives don't need to shave to be able to do what is required of them. I don't know if that answers your question plus I'm fairly new to knives and different steels so my opinion on things isn't as accurate as some people's.

Jack
DasFriek
Member
Posts: 67
Joined: Sun Feb 06, 2011 7:04 am

#9

Post by DasFriek »

Well that is a point i haven't looked into real far, But ill hold off on the ceramic rods for a while and see how long it keeps a working edge.
I may be spoiled buy the high end steels im used too also.
User avatar
defenestrate
Member
Posts: 2672
Joined: Fri Sep 24, 2004 10:33 am
Location: RTP NC area
Contact:

#10

Post by defenestrate »

the 3Cr13Mo steel is a rather low-carbon stainless - without those carbides, the edge holding will not be as good as, say, 8Cr13Mo or some of the higher line steels in the :spyder: lineup. That said, for light cutting duties, they take a wicked edge easily and hold it well enough for their purpose IMO. I use them for opening clam paks and for reaching to cut in tiny spaces where other knives will not fit. They are supremely capable at these kind of tasks.
-
Happy, Happy, Happy! Peel, Peel, Peel!
User avatar
jackknifeh
Member
Posts: 8412
Joined: Fri Jul 09, 2010 6:01 am
Location: Florida panhandle

#11

Post by jackknifeh »

DasFriek wrote:Well that is a point i haven't looked into real far, But ill hold off on the ceramic rods for a while and see how long it keeps a working edge.
I may be spoiled buy the high end steels im used too also.
I have a triangle Ultra-Fine Spyderco rod that I use for quick touch-ups on VG-10, ZDP-189 and now M4. I love that little rod. I'm really surprised how quickly it brings an edge back being as fine as it is. I'm considering getting the 2" x 8" Ultra-Fine Spyderco stone but I'm having a hard time justifying spending more money on sharpening stuff. Ok, Ok, stop twisting my arm, I'll order it now. :mad: Sorry, that was my other self talking to me. :D

Jack
User avatar
Blerv
Member
Posts: 11850
Joined: Mon May 04, 2009 11:24 am

#12

Post by Blerv »

The Stag Arms model is quite cool :) .

Collectability or not at least your intended mod is not strange. It should retain full functionality as a tool. So while it might effect value to some degree (or appreciation), it's still a very impressive product.

Knife collecting is fuzzy logic anyways. When the Barong was discontinued they were selling for $85 each :p . One Nutnfancy video and a year later the world is begging for a sprint. Lol.
DasFriek
Member
Posts: 67
Joined: Sun Feb 06, 2011 7:04 am

#13

Post by DasFriek »

I happened to take a day out for shopping and of course knife ogling was high on my list of to do things.
I somehow stole a brand new 5.11 First Responder in S30v for $70 so my day was off to a good start. at my next local shop and after BS'ing a while with the guys i saw they had 1 Bug left so i grabbed that to go with my Honeybee. I just love these tiny, But highly useful knives.
Talking to them about the Bee not keeping that hair popping edge long they agreed with you guys in that im expecting too much from the steel, But that it should keep a working edge longer. So im staying off the rod for a while and see how it goes.

My Gayle Bradley is scheduled to be here tomorrow. I just dont hope i dislike the sharp liner overhang. Im doing my best now not to alter every knife i buy to fit my needs.
But to pick 1 or 2 and make them perfect and thats fine, And leave the rest as god intended them to be.

I think the Stag Manix 2 may be dark enough it wont bother me. But if it makes it into my two knife EDC rotation then i will. I have enough other knives to mod and mess with if i feel the need. Im finding myself at the point i have more knives than i can EDC so keeping its value as high as possible is kinda high on my priority list over looks.
I checked with Stag Arms and my Manix 2 is ready for shipment, But with them being gun guys i dont think they understand what "HURRY UP" means. lol

I also ordered a Sapphire polishing stone for my Lansky setup so i can polish it in the clamp rather than by hand with 1500 grit paper and risking my fingers getting bit.

But you do bring up a good point on the Spyderco ultra fine rod, That is if it has a handle as ive been using bare sticks from a block setup and its not ideal for freehand work.

As i stated in my first post im originally a Benchmade guy, But ive gotten way bored with their line of knives and hardly anything new and special unless its few and far between.
But ive seen several more Spydies i want so ill be around here for a while chasing the purple dragon holding all the good knives.
On my short list so far is a Sage 1 and 2 and a Millie in all black and mabey a Ti one if i feel rich enough. Im a Ti frame lock lover at heart so i will eventually give in and buy one.
And i still dont own one single knive in VG10 even tho ive been a fan of it for 3 years since i heard so much about it when i was having my hand made Japanese kitchen knives made from Super blue Hitachi.
So i gotta get the VG10 asap.

Sorry to yap so much, But im excited about knives again now that ive looked elsewhere to get my jollies. And Spyderco is a place i think that can deliver what i want.
User avatar
jackknifeh
Member
Posts: 8412
Joined: Fri Jul 09, 2010 6:01 am
Location: Florida panhandle

#14

Post by jackknifeh »

DasFriek wrote:I happened to take a day out for shopping and of course knife ogling was high on my list of to do things.
I somehow stole a brand new 5.11 First Responder in S30v for $70 so my day was off to a good start. at my next local shop and after BS'ing a while with the guys i saw they had 1 Bug left so i grabbed that to go with my Honeybee. I just love these tiny, But highly useful knives.
Talking to them about the Bee not keeping that hair popping edge long they agreed with you guys in that im expecting too much from the steel, But that it should keep a working edge longer. So im staying off the rod for a while and see how it goes.

My Gayle Bradley is scheduled to be here tomorrow. I just dont hope i dislike the sharp liner overhang. Im doing my best now not to alter every knife i buy to fit my needs.
But to pick 1 or 2 and make them perfect and thats fine, And leave the rest as god intended them to be.

I think the Stag Manix 2 may be dark enough it wont bother me. But if it makes it into my two knife EDC rotation then i will. I have enough other knives to mod and mess with if i feel the need. Im finding myself at the point i have more knives than i can EDC so keeping its value as high as possible is kinda high on my priority list over looks.
I checked with Stag Arms and my Manix 2 is ready for shipment, But with them being gun guys i dont think they understand what "HURRY UP" means. lol

I also ordered a Sapphire polishing stone for my Lansky setup so i can polish it in the clamp rather than by hand with 1500 grit paper and risking my fingers getting bit.

But you do bring up a good point on the Spyderco ultra fine rod, That is if it has a handle as ive been using bare sticks from a block setup and its not ideal for freehand work.
As i stated in my first post im originally a Benchmade guy, But ive gotten way bored with their line of knives and hardly anything new and special unless its few and far between.
But ive seen several more Spydies i want so ill be around here for a while chasing the purple dragon holding all the good knives.
On my short list so far is a Sage 1 and 2 and a Millie in all black and mabey a Ti one if i feel rich enough. Im a Ti frame lock lover at heart so i will eventually give in and buy one.
And i still dont own one single knive in VG10 even tho ive been a fan of it for 3 years since i heard so much about it when i was having my hand made Japanese kitchen knives made from Super blue Hitachi.
So i gotta get the VG10 asap.

Sorry to yap so much, But im excited about knives again now that ive looked elsewhere to get my jollies. And Spyderco is a place i think that can deliver what i want.
Looking at knives on the internet is dangerous for me even when I don't want to buy anything. It's like walking into Wal Mart to kill time. I end up spending money on something I didn't even know I needed (or just wanted). Knives are even worse. If I had a local knife store to go to I wouldn't be broke, I'd be overdrawn. :D

I made a handle for my Spyderco triangle UF rod. I used two pieces of wood, cut a flat groove in one and a small triangle groove in the other so they "sandwich" around one end of the rod. Then I glued them together and carved away all wood that wasn't "handle". Now I can slide the rod into this wooded "thing" I made and I can hold it. I lose about 1/2" of rod but holding it by hand I loose more inside my hand. I created a sharp edge with the UF rod. Then I used the sharp edge to carve the handle thing for the UF rod that created the sharp edge. The whole thing revolved around a sharp edge. Maybe I do need professional help, the thing is I just don't care! :D :D

Jack
DasFriek
Member
Posts: 67
Joined: Sun Feb 06, 2011 7:04 am

#15

Post by DasFriek »

I agree the Internet is a dangerous place anymore when shipping costs beat the heck out of buying gas and driving to all the local knife shops to try and find a deal.
I can find any knifes best price in about 3 minutes online and spend all day looking for one locally. I find myself buying online more due to gas prices, I just pray they dont start jacking shipping prices like mad to cover their gas costs also.

I think ill just order a quality rod with handle and guard made of ceramic or diamond or sapphire which ever in extra fine as i need it for touch ups only. As my knives get bigger it seems stupid to hold a bare rod in my hand and taking swipes towards my off hand.
I cant use a stationary block as the right side always gets thrown off and i can do it left handed.

I never leave Walmart without 3-4 things i didnt even know i needed until i saw them.

My Gayle Bradley came in today and after a slight pivot adjustment and some Tuff-Glide on the pivot and several coats more on the M4 blade to protect it im having a good time flicking it to death with my new ZT0300 that just came in.
I love the knife except for one issue which everyone else already knows about. reaching the unlocking liner is hard as heck, The right side slab should have definitely been lowered to allow more thumb to hit the locking liner.
Its a solid knife and the CF is perfect and the liner not being fully covered doesn't bother me. Its very smooth and tight on the pivot. The Spydie hole could stand to be higher and not 1/4" of it hidden under the liner, But its nothing horrible.
Just wiping the blade down with the Tuff Glide it took a few shaves of skin right off before i ever knew it, Nothing deep. It was just like the top layer of your skin, Thats a crazy sharp blade!
Oh, And shes a slicer for sure. Goes threw paper with very little resistance. My new ZT 0300 is paper shaving handicapped with its thick beveled edge, It will see a better angle grind soon as i make sure im keeping it which is most likely i will.

Also my Stag Arms S30v blade Manix 2 shipped today and ill have it Friday, I really think it will be a great knife. Im gonna leave it bone stock until i know if it will enter my 2 knife EDC rotation or not. Its kinda rare so i dont want to devalue it unless i know im gonna keep and use it for a long time.
Post Reply