Next Spyderco...Opinions please!

jifigz · #1

Hi there. I'm new here and this is my first post.

I had a Ladybug when I was a youngster but had since lost it...I nearly forgot about it all together until I picked up my Delica 4 FFG a few weeks ago...long story short I fell in love with Spyderco and forgot how righteous they could be. I am going to pick up a new Spyderco very, very soon, but since there is no dealer all that handy to where I live it will probably be an internet purchase. I have narrowed it down to a Manix 2, Chaparral, Sage 3, or maybe the paramilitary 2. I would appreciate feedback as to why you like a specific model and what its strengths would be. I will be just using it for simple tasks here and there, nothing too intensive, but I do want a knife that has enough "growl" to really get some serious work done as well. Help please!

BadFish · #2

Manix2 is the only one tht I own lout of your options. I have the lightweight frcp version. I have not been to impressed with the bd1 steel. I use my knives for hard tasks while hunting and fishing. Other than the steel I love this knife. The lock is easy and great to use, it opens like butter. I can't speak for the rest but I would recommend any manix2. My two cents

Surfingringo · #3

I own a pm2 and a manix 2. I much prefer the handle and ergonomics on the pm2. I recently got to handle a titanium chaparral, and though I would consider it a lighter duty knife than the manix or pm2, it is a really beautiful and comfortable pocket knife. I would say that since you already have a delica, though, that maybe you should go with something a little more "robust".

Don't worry, you'll be happy with any of them.

Chopping Broccoli · #4

I'd suggest a PM2 first, followed by a Manix2. If your getting a Sage, I'd look at a Sage 1 or 2 before I went after a 3. Come to think of it, I'd probably recommend getting a Sage 1 over all those other choices. Its a great knife.

Tdog · #5

You may as well get the PM2 first, as you will always wonder how great they are until you have one. That said, any Spydie you get will be a pleaser. Sage, Manix, Caly 3, 3.5 or Bradley folder are all classics. Be careful, the Spyder bite can become costly. and for some no cure :D

ChapmanPreferred · #6

PM2 would be my suggestion. I have owned the previous model and enjoyed it. I will own one again soon. Good cutting geometry with the full flat grind and distal taper. Large Spyderco trademark thumb hole. Excellent ergonomics and lots of steel/handle material choices!

razorsharp · #7

Southard flipper- :P

D1omedes · #8

Caly 3.5 in VG10. Trust me. :cool:

TomAiello · #9

I own both the PM2 and Manix 2 (a couple of each, actually).

I'll go against the masses and say that I'd go with the Manix 2 first. It's heavy, if that is something that will bother you. But other than that, it's just about perfect. The CBBL is by far my favorite lock.

Buendia518 · #10

Of the knives you mentioned I prefer the Carbon Fiber Chaparral. It's a departure from the others you mentioned (small and sleek, the others are overbuilt in the best way) but it should handle all tasks if the blade length isn't an issue. You might also find that the 2mm thick blade is an advantage over something thicker.

However D1omedes made a great recommendation; my caly 3.5 gets more use than my chaparral.

I have no experience with the CBBL but it might make a pleasant variation.

M80 · #11

Swick3

Blerv · #12

I don't think you can go too wrong :) . The Manix2 is certainly an impressive beast and widely available. The Chap would also be a classy edition.

I would probably go m2 in g10.

jifigz · #13

I appreciate the feedback from everyone. And I think I've already acquired the "Spyder-bite" and I'm sure I'll sink WAY too much money into this "habit." I was really thinking the Caly 3.5 as well, but I think I'll snag a PM 2 and the Manix 2 will follow shortly thereafter. And, of course, I think I'll need an Endura at some point as wel. There are a few new SAK's I want to purchase soon as well. Too many blades....not enough cash.

DRKBC · #14

That's a tough one, I think the Sage 1 would be great, not much to dislike about it and an excellent all arounder which am certain isn't a word. I don't own a Chaparral so I can't really comment on that one.

I have the Para 2 and the Manix 2 so I can speak about those (I also have a Native 5 and think that might be one to consider). I would think between the Para 2 and the Manix 2 it is the weight and maybe also which lock you prefer although they are both excellent IMO. The Manix is definitely a more robust folder, the blade is a little thicker and you are less likely to say snap the tip of the blade but the FFG on the Para2 is really nice for a lot of different cutting tasks, food prep and the like. I carry the Manix more at work but I don't mind the weight and I like the fact it is a little more robust just cause I sometimes cut things that I worry might damage the blade of the Para 2. They both have exceptional ergonomics however the Manix has a lot more aggressive jimping which might bug you.

It's a tough choice but it is more of choice of which one to get first rather than which one to get, because you will ... get both (que evil laugh).

RanCoWeAla · #15

I think the Caly 3.5 blows away everything else Spyderco makes as far as an edc knife .Like someone else said trust me on this one.

Syncharmony · #16

Your list is pretty diverse, so it all comes down to what you want. I'll echo what others have said and tell you to look at the Sage 1. The price is right around $100, the fit and finish are outstanding, the carbon fiber scales are beautiful and it has great ergos and is a real solid knife. Don't let the good looks fool you though, it is very capable and makes an outstanding EDC. I did a little photoshoot with mine last week if you want a closer look. Click here to look. You get the looks of the Chapparal with the size of the Sage, good stuff.

PM2 makes a great option as well, but it's pretty difficult to find due to production shortages. I don't have any experience with the Manix 2 but I hear it's a great knife.

Holland · #17

I love love love my chaparrals. amazing fit and finish, the internal stop pin eliminate (or if you abuse them it greatly decreases it :D ) they can be used harder than people think, they have super thin blades and great steel. the CF one is relatively inexpensive at $100. very slim and can easily be carried in pocket without the clip if you choose to. :D

EdgeFUBAR · #18

I find myself carrying the Manix 2 Translucent Blue Lightweight all the time. Simply love it ! Super lightweight at 2.65 oz . Very good steel/steal for the price (less than $80 internet) . Has wire clip unlike a regular M2. Just a great value.

Paramilitary 2 is on my want list by the way ....either one in my opinion would be a great choice.

Sparki · #19

I don't think you can go wrong with a caly 3.5 or PM2. I have both and they're nothing short of amazing.

Mister X · #20

jifigz wrote: I will be just using it for simple tasks here and there, nothing too intensive, but I do want a knife that has enough "growl" to really get some serious work done as well. Help please!

What's wrong with the Delica you just bought?

If you really like the Delica, but simply want another knife to keep handy rather than for a collection then consider just purchasing another Delica just like the one you already have. Commonality in such cases is a good thing as you're comfortable & familiar with the knife, it's feel for routine tasks and especially should you need to use it as a self-defense weapon.Plus Delica's are relatively inexpensive, legal to carry just about everywhere & there is an un sharpened training model available should you want to study & train in self-defense/MBC techniques.