Spyderco must really like the D3 handle!

spyderHS08 · #1

You guys, and gals ever notice how popular and used this handle is?
Im not bashing them, because I know I like it! Ive got 3 knives with it. they have made several models with it. I wonder if this is their most used mold in frn, or anything, Im betting it is. they have the...Delica 3 in many different colors, Delica 3 trainers, Salt 1 black/yellow, tasman salt black/yellow, and Im sure theyre are others (if there are please name what you can) but I just cant believe how many diff styles and colors this handle has been used for! Its very smart on spydercos part, props to them. :spyder: :cool:

spyderHS08 · #2

open..

The Deacon · #3

Might be a tie for number of models. IIRC that handle has been used on the Delica, Merlin, Salt 1, and Tasman Salt. The Endura 3 handle was also used on the Matriarch, Spyderhawk and Pacific Salt. However, I'd be inclined to think there have been more total knives with the Delica handle since both the Matriarch and Spyderhawk were fairly low volume pieces.

cobrajoe · #4

The Deacon wrote:Might be a tie for number of models. IIRC that handle has been used on the Delica, Merlin, Salt 1, and Tasman Salt. The Endura 3 handle was also used on the Matriarch, Spyderhawk and Pacific Salt. However, I'd be inclined to think there have been more total knives with the Delica handle since both the Matriarch and Spyderhawk were fairly low volume pieces.

Deac, I think you've pointed out an obvious hole in the D3 handle lineup: a reverse S blade :D

I think the handle would be a perfect match for a 3in cricket or matriarch style revers S :D

Of course, I'm probably just dreaming, but I did carry my black Salt 1, so it can't just be a coincidence!

fishtale · #5

I feel the D3 handle is "the" Spyderco icon. It's perfect and hope it lasts a long time in production. There is something simple and elegant about pinned FRN. Of all the knives in my collection, I rely on a black PE Salt 1 for most of my cutting.

knife_junky · #6

Actually if you look they are all different molds, the model name is molded in the handle..

The Deacon · #7

knife_junky wrote:Actually if you look they are all different molds, the model name is molded in the handle..

I could be wrong, but if I were a betting man, I'd bet those "name tags" are separate pieces which get plugged into the mold.

gull wing · #8

I like the D3 handle, as a matter of fact more than the D4.

Jay_Ev · #9

gull wing wrote:I like the D3 handle, as a matter of fact more than the D4.

+1. I am another who who prefers it over the D4 handle.

Ted · #10

The Deacon wrote:I could be wrong, but if I were a betting man, I'd bet those "name tags" are separate pieces which get plugged into the mold.

That's correct. They are seperate inserts into the molds.

clovisc · #11

that OD green FRN sure does look great. i wish it would make a comeback... maybe with H1? :D :eek:

cobrajoe · #12

Ted wrote:That's correct. They are seperate inserts into the molds.

Cool. I always assumed the same thing, but it's nice to know the guess was right.

Flinx · #13

Another fan of the D3 handle! Its the reason I first purchased a Salt I to begin with!

The main reason is the clip. I just love the simplicity of this clip. If it gets loose, no need to try and find the right size screwdriver or torx, you just use two nickles, and good as new.

Flinx

Lockback · #14

clovisc wrote:that OD green FRN sure does look great. i wish it would make a comeback... maybe with H1? :D :eek:

+1 for the OD green FRN. It is attractive.

BMBob · #15

cobrajoe wrote:Deac, I think you've pointed out an obvious hole in the D3 handle lineup: a reverse S blade :D

I think the handle would be a perfect match for a 3in cricket or matriarch style revers S :D
Of course, I'm probably just dreaming, but I did carry my black Salt 1, so it can't just be a coincidence!

YES!!!

CombatGrappler · #16

I think Spyderco really likes the D3 handle because the mold has paid for itself multiple times over. :D

spyderHS08 · #17

clovisc wrote:that OD green FRN sure does look great. i wish it would make a comeback... maybe with H1? :D :eek:

Lockback wrote:+1 for the OD green FRN. It is attractive.

Thanks guys!
Its one of my favorites :) :spyder:

dialex · #18

I love the D3 myself (not that there is anything wrong with the D4, it has many improvements, but the D3 works just fine).
Now what I'd really like would be Spyderco to use some Glow In The Dark FRN (like there is at the Victorinox Rescue Tool, for instance). Wouldn't it be just cool? :cool:

fishtale · #19

I really love the splinter picker tip of the old D3. I also think H1 is the most interesting current blade steel. I've often considered having the Salt 1 blade re-ground to the D3 profile.

Question for Sal and Co...has there ever been any discussion to offer the D3 blade shape in H1 steel? Kinda like "Retro-tech"...classic shape, new steel!

amen74 · #20

The Salt 1 is a great knife. I've never handled a D3, but after handling my Salt, I think the D3 would be favored over the D4. Just something about the lightweight and overall feel of it.