Spyderco
Spyderco is a Golden, Colorado knife manufacturer that has defined the modern folding knife market since 1978 — credited with popularizing the pocket clip, the thumb hole opening system, and the one-hand opening folding knife that are now standard across the industry. Spyderco produces an unusually broad range of folding and fixed blade knives from the compact Dragonfly to the full-size Paramilitary 2, using premium steel alloys and distinctive designs that have made them a staple of every-day carry (EDC) enthusiasts, outdoor users, and knife collectors worldwide.
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The Spyderco Paramilitary 2: The Benchmark
The Paramilitary 2 (PM2) is Spyderco’s most iconic knife and widely considered one of the best production folding knives ever made. It uses CPM-S30V stainless steel (or S45VN in current production) in a 3.44-inch blade with a compression lock — a Spyderco-exclusive lock mechanism that provides the security of a liner lock with significantly more resistance to accidental closure. The PM2’s ergonomics, blade geometry, and lock quality set a standard that competing folders at any price are measured against.
Spyderco Para 3: The Compact Version
The Para 3 is the compact Paramilitary — a 2.95-inch blade with the same compression lock and steel as the PM2 in a shorter, lighter package better suited for smaller hands or less demanding carry. For buyers who love the PM2 but want something smaller, the Para 3 delivers the same engineering in a more pocketable format.
Steel and Pricing
Spyderco offers their models across multiple steel tiers. S30V and S45VN are the standard production steels — excellent corrosion resistance and edge retention. Sprints and specialty runs use premium steels like CTS-XHP, M4, or Maxamet for buyers who want maximum edge retention. The standard production models represent the best value; sprint runs command premiums for the collector market.
Frequently Asked Questions: Spyderco
What steel does Spyderco use?
Standard production Spyderco knives use CPM-S30V or S45VN — both are premium American-made stainless steels with excellent corrosion resistance and edge retention for everyday use. Sprint and specialty models use more exotic steels including M4, CTS-XHP, and Maxamet for enthusiasts who prioritize maximum edge holding above all else.
What is the best Spyderco for everyday carry?
The Para 3 and Native 5 are the most popular EDC Spydercos. The Native 5 is slightly slimmer and lighter; the Para 3 has a better grip for heavier tasks. For a first quality folding knife, the Persistence or Tenacious provides Spyderco quality at entry price points.
See Also: All Knives • Benchmade • Case Cutlery • Automatic Knives