The Spyderco Nilakka is one of those unique, interesting, ethnic series knives that sets Spyderco apart from all the rest. Photos of the Nilakka immediately grabbed my interest with its distinctive Puukko shape. But, it wasn't until I held one at a gun show that I truly could appreciate just how amazing this knife really is.
First, I'll talk about the background and specs: The Nilakka is a folding knife designed by Pekka Tuominen, who also designed the fixed blade Spydero Puukko (which is also a fine piece of work). The Nilakka has a 3.5" CPM-S30V blade, with a Scandi, "zero-ground" edge. I'm not too sure about the edge because apparently, Spyderco recalled these, very early on, to put a small bevel on it to help with durability. At least, I think that's what happened. Please correct me if I'm mistaken. Anyway, whatever they did with the edge, it's an absolute slicing demon (more on that later). The blade is thick, at 4.5mm, but a swedge cut along the top, allows the blade to narrow to a very fine point. Handles have skeletonized, stainless liners, under brown G-10 scales with a light texturing applied to the surface. A solid, steel backspacer takes up almost half the spine. A tip-up, right side, deep carry pocket clip is mounted to the butt end of the handle by two Torx screws.
The handle of the Nilakka is different. Its scales are machined into a triangular shape, giving the handle a hexagonal shape like I've never seen before. This shape is actually quite comfortable in use, and was more ergonomic in the hand than I expected by looking at the pictures.
There is no jimping anywhere on this knife, though the lock bar does have three small scallops machined into it, which really do offer just a bit of traction for easy closing. The deep cutout in the scale also allows for easy access to the Spydie hole, which is on the small side. I find it a very easy knife to open and close under normal conditions, however, the Nilakka is not a particularly lefty friendly knife.
The Nilakka weighs in at 5 oz. I don't find it overly heavy, but it does have some heft to it. That solid backspacer seems to add quite a bit of rearward weight, especially noticeable when the knife is closed. When open, it's very well balanced in the hand, and doesn't seem overweight at all.
In the pocket, the somewhat thick, hexagonal shape of the Nilakka's handle, and its 5 oz weight, make it more noticeable than most of my regular EDC options. I also find the Nilakka a bit difficult to extract from my pocket. I'm not sure why, but I notice that the clip makes contact with the G-10 scale, only on the very edge of the clip, and only on the vertex of the triangularly machined scale. The clip is also very strong. This positioning seems to create a lot of friction initially when trying to remove the knife. The ultra low riding position also means there is little to grab onto. But this is only a small issue for me.
The liner lock of my Nilakka locks up early, and solidly. The blade glides open smoothly. Fit and finish are incredible as usual from Taichung. The Nilakka has a very high-tech, precision built feel to it, and I can't really see any flaws on this handheld, piece of acuminate sculpture.
On to cutting… wow! This is probably the sharpest knife I've ever used. I'm no expert when it comes to edges, but the bevel on this blade is tiny, and incredibly even and precise. I haven't used this knife all that much yet, but it opens mail with an effortlessness I've never experienced. The first time I opened a letter with it, I swore I had missed getting the blade under the flap, and had just cut through air. But no, the envelope was opened with as clean a slice as I've ever seen. It really is an impressive edge. But, it makes me very hesitant to go cardboard cutting with it, or worse. This thing is a pocket laser!
To me, the Nilakka has an unusual vibe to it. Both ultra modern, and retro at the same time. Something about the hexagonal handle shape reminds me of the geometric, minimalist sculpture of the 1960s, while the brown scale color and wood-grain-like texture is reminiscent of vintage wood furniture that would be found in a den with many leather-bound books that smells of rich mahogany.
The Nilakka, as a folding Puukko, is a very nice package. Compared to the fixed blade Puukko, the Nilakka's blade and handle are very comparable in size and function.
But only the Nilakka can fold neatly, and ride comfortably, clipped in the pocket. The fixed blade Puukko in its sheath is much bulkier.
Overall, I'm very impressed with the Nilakka, and I put it up there with the Chokwe as far as interesting and unique Spydercos that are more functional and comfortable to use than pictures might suggest. IMO, there are probably better all-around EDC choices out there, and the Nilakka won't be for everyone. But it will remain an occasional user in my rotation, and will definitely be kept handy in my office. My Nilakka will be appreciated for its uniqueness and usefulness for years to come.
