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The Top 15 BEST Spyderco Knives: Reviews and Buying Guide in 2023

submitted by Chris Van Hoven

There are only a handful of companies that EDCers would blindly trust because of the level of quality and craftsmanship they’ve come to know and expect from them, and one of those companies is Spyderco. Founded in 1976 by Sal and Gail Glesser, Spyderco has grown from selling one or two knife models to becoming one of the leaders in the cutlery industry.

In this guide, we’ll be talking about our top Spyderco knife choices. Since Spyderco has such a wide variety of knife models that suit nearly every budget and purpose, we’ll break each one down per category, and give you a brief overview of some Spyderco knives you should definitely consider adding to your collection. Note that although we have specific knife recommendations in this guide, the same model is usually available in a variety of different steels, handle materials, and colors, so feel free to choose one that suits your personal taste.

Our Top Picks

The Best Overall Spyderco Knife: Shaman 15V [Buy

The Best Spyderco Knife on a Budget: Roadie [Buy

The Most Premium Spyderco Knife: Para Military 2 15V [Buy

The Best Spyderco Knife for EDC: Dragonfly 2 [Buy] / [Full Review]

The Best Spyderco Knife for the Outdoors: SpydieChef [Buy

The Very Best Spyderco Knives

With such a wide variety of models covering different use cases such as hunting, culinary, tactical, or rescue scenarios, narrowing the list down to just 15 choices can be tricky. We’ve chosen the models that offer the most versatility, value, and function among Spyderco’s offerings, making it easier for you to pick one that suits you best.

The Best Overall Spyderco Knife: Shaman 15V

Purchase

Key Features
Compression Lock
Washer pivot system
4-position clip
Specifications
Blade Length
3.58″
Blade Steel
15V
Handle/Scales
G-10
EDC Rating
Just released
Price
$$$$
The Spyderco Shaman 15V is a limited edition offering that combines strong, reliable materials with excellent craftsmanship. Its stonewashed 3.58” blade utilizes CPM 15V steel, renowned for its superior wear resistance. The blade has been further enhanced through heat treatment specific to Spyderco’s products developed in collaboration with custom knife maker Shawn Houston to maximize performance. The G-10 handle also showcases Shawn Houston’s “Big Brown Bear” logo for an extra touch of personalization. This knife boasts stainless steel liners for greater strength and durability and a four-position pocket clip for convenient carry options.

The Best Spyderco Knife on a Budget: Roadie

Purchase

Key Features
Slipjoint
Lightweight
Legal in most locales
Specifications
Blade Length
2.13″
Blade Steel
N690Co
Handle/Scales
FRN
EDC Rating
Price
$
The Roadie’s functionality begins with its high-performance, sheepsfoot style blade. Its trademarked Double Detent opener allows two-handed opening without relying on fingernails; plus, an index-finger choil positioned on the blade protects against accidental closure and greatly enhances control when working with small materials or delicate cuts. It boasts a fiberglass-reinforced nylon (FRN) construction that has been contoured to fit comfortably in your hand. Originally designed to comply with the TSA’s 2013 plan, which allowed qualified knives onboard aircraft (before the plan was withdrawn), Spyderco’s Roadie instead remains a solid carry option for most locales on the ground.

The Most Premium Spyderco Knife: Para Military 2 15V

Purchase

Key Features
Compression lock
Washer pivot system
4-position clip
Specifications
Blade Length
3.44″
Blade Steel
15V
Handle/Scales
G-10
EDC Rating
Just released
Price
$$$$
When you need a reliable tool for tough jobs while also scoring points in style factor, the Spyderco Para Military 2 is worth a look. The PM2 is based on the original Para Military model designed by Spyderco as a more compact alternative to their full-size Military. Intended to meet the needs of serious professionals while still being lightweight enough for everyday c’s became one of the most popular knives on the market due to its combination of features and user-friendly design. With its attractive aesthetic, safe and ergonomic grip, reliable build quality and materials, and ability to be operated with one hand, it’s no surprise that this knife has become a must-have for soldiers, hunters, wilderness guides, everyday users, collectors, and everyone in between.

The Best Spyderco Knife for EDC: Dragonfly 2

Purchase

Key Features
Lockback
Excellent ergonomics
2-position wire pocket clip
Specifications
Blade Length
2.28″
Blade Steel
S30V
Handle/Scales
FRN
EDC Rating
Price
$$
If you’re looking to add some color to your gear, then this special version of the Dragonfly 2 is something you should check out. Its 2.3” CPM S30V steel blade features a contrasting black coat, while the knife’s pink FRN, bi-directional textured handle provides a comfortable gripping surface. It also features a tip-up, reversible, wire pocket clip for convenient carry on your pocket or belt. This vibrant pink version of the Dragonfly 2 has been created to bring awareness to breast cancer, presenting a bright color palette that stands out. With several improvements compared to its first-generation iteration, Spyderco has ensured that the Dragonfly 2 cuts and feels much larger than it is.

The Best Spyderco Knife for the Outdoors: SpydieChef

Purchase

Key Features
Ultra corrosion- and rust-resistant
Reeve Integral Lock
Sweeping wharncliffe blade
Specifications
Blade Length
‎3.32″
Blade Steel
‎LC200N
Handle/Scales
Titanium
EDC Rating
Price
$$$$
The Spyderco Spydiechef combines the user-friendly ergonomics and balance of a chef’s knife with the convenience of a folding blade. Premium quality LC200N steel makes its blade incredibly corrosion resistant (if not completely impervious to rust) and perfect for outdoor use, while its broad profile and full-flat grind guarantee precise, low-friction cutting performance. Its nitrogen-based alloy blade is strong enough to endure even the harshest conditions, making it an excellent choice for those wanting something rugged and reliable that won’t let them down when they need it most.

Military 2

Purchase

Key Features
Compression Lock
4-position clip
Updated design
Specifications
Blade Length
4.0″
Blade Steel
15V
Handle/Scales
G-10
EDC Rating
Just released
Price
$$$
Spyderco’s Military 2 knife is a modern take on the classic Spyderco Military that set the standard for mounting knives. It now features an improved Compression Lock mechanism from it’s incredibly popular Para Military 2 sibling, which gives it added strength and safety when closing while offering the same 4” blade length from the original Spyderco Military—this time made of ultra-tough CPM 15V steel. Improvements have been made to make the Military 2 even more reliable and trustworthy; in addition to the ambidextrous Compression Lock, slight tweaks have been made to its ergonomics for an even more comfortable and capable carry.

Lil’ Temperance 3

Purchase

Key Features
Compression Lock
Broad leaf-shaped blade
4-position clip
Specifications
Blade Length
2.90″
Blade Steel
K390
Handle/Scales
G-10
EDC Rating
Just released
Price
$$$$
The Spyderco Lil’ Temperance 3 is an everyday carry folder that offers the same high-quality design and construction as the original Temperance fixed blade, but in a much more compact size. This knife features a 3.8” fully flat ground K390 steel blade with a plain edge and full satin finish, while its G-10 handle has been uniquely contoured to provide excellent grip while remaining lightweight. It also has a reversible pocket clip for comfortable carry and easy accessibility.

Stok Fixed Blade

Purchase

Key Features
Saber grind
Included Boltaron sheath
G-Clip belt attachment
Specifications
Blade Length
2.95″
Blade Steel
8Cr13MoV
Handle/Scales
G-10
EDC Rating
Just released
Price
$
Created by Dutch artist and knife enthusiast Sjoerd Stok, the Spyderco Stok is a straightforward and effective everyday carry option. Its 2.95” blade is crafted from 8Cr13MoV stainless steel, satin-finished to give it an ethereal yet elegant look. Together with its saber-ground bowie blade shape, it’s perfect for everyday carry. A drop point blade version is also coming soon, which features a stylish swedge near the point. The handle scales have also been shaped from OG green G-10 peel-ply-textured material for enhanced grip and aesthetics. For secure everyday carry, the Stok is supplied with a molded Boltaron sheath with the helpful G-Clip belt attachment, allowing you to move around without it slipping free.

Ambitious Lightweight

Purchase

Key Features
Liner lock
Upgraded materials
4-position clip
Specifications
Blade Length
2.25″
Blade Steel
S35VN
Handle/Scales
FRN
EDC Rating
Just released
Price
$$
The Ambitious Lightweight takes the original compact and budget-oriented model and bumps it up to be a hard-working pocket knife with premium features. Its CPM S35VN 2.25” blade is sharpened for hard use and treated with a satin finish with an eye-catching appeal. The handle of this quality folder is made of textured, blue FRN scales affording easy access to its steel liner lock, which ensures a secure grip during use. Further features include Spyderco’s classic Round Hole opener and four-position pocket clip that can be adjusted according to personal preference.

Tenacious Lightweight

Purchase

Key Features
Liner lock
Upgraded materials
4-position clip
Specifications
Blade Length
3.39″
Blade Steel
S35VN
Handle/Scales
FRN
EDC Rating
Price
$$
The Tenacious Lightweight is the Ambitious’s fellow sibling from the Value Folder series getting its chance to shine in the premium spotlight. It features FRN handle scales which reduce its weight by nearly 10%, as well as full skeletonized stainless steel liners for increased strength and rigidity without added bulk or weight. The Tenacious Lightweight also offers great cutting performance with its 3.4” stainless steel blade made from CPM S35VN steel ground flat from spine to cutting edge. Its oversized Round Hole and textured spine jimping allow for easy opening and offers a secure position for your thumb while in use.

Native 5 Salt

Purchase

Key Features
Lockback
Fully serrated
4-position clip
Specifications
Blade Length
3.00″
Blade Steel
MagnaCut
Handle/Scales
FRN
EDC Rating
Price
$$$
The Spyderco Native 5 Salt combines excellent ergonomics and build quality with a classic utilitarian design, refreshed to be a modern-day adventure folder. The full serrations on its 3” satin-finished and super-premium CPM MagnaCut steel blade make cutting tasks easy, while its ambidextrous lockback mechanism provides secure locking and ease of use. Plus, its volcano-textured yellow handle scales eliminate any slippage that would otherwise occur in more demanding situations.

Para 3 Lightweight

Purchase

Key Features
Compression Lock
FRN handle
2-position wire pocket clip
Specifications
Blade Legnth
3.00″
Blade Steel
SPY27
Handle/Scales
FRN
EDC Rating
Price
$$
The incredibly popular Spyderco Para 3 Lightweight is immediately recognizable thanks to its 3” full-flat ground leaf-shaped blade with the signature Round Hole cut into the CTS-BD1N steel for easy deployment of the knife with either hand. You’ll also find Spyderco’s innovative Compression Lock in the spine that uses a spring and split liner to keep your blade steady while operating. The textured FRN handle scales add some extra grip, perfect for jobs that get your hands wet.

Manix 2

Purchase

Key Features
Ball Bearing Lock
Ambidextrous
Premium steel
Specifications
Blade Length
3.375″
Blade Steel
S110V
Handle/Scales
G-10
EDC Rating
Price
$$$$
The Manix 2’s highlight is its innovative Ball Bearing Lock, a lock that operates around a free-floating ball bearing contained in a custom polymer cage. This special design allows for consistent lock-up every time it’s engaged, wedging it securely and allowing the blade to pivot smoothly closed. The Ball Bearing Lock does not need internal liners to support it, making this an extraordinarily lightweight folder. For cutting duties, the Manix 2 has a 3.37” satin-finished drop point blade made from top tier CPM S110V steel. Safely secure it to your pocket or bag with its reversible pocket clip or oversized lanyard hole.

Delica 4

Purchase

Key Features
Lockback
Classic model
4-position clip
Specifications
Blade Length
2.88″
Blade Steel
M4
Handle/Scales
FRN
EDC Rating
Price
$$
As one of Spyderco’s most popular models, the Delica 4 is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a high-quality knife that offers reliable performance and long-lasting durability without losing in form or function. This Blade HQ exclusive version features a 2.88” CPM M4 steel blade with great abrasion resistance. Its FRN handle gives you a lightweight and comfortable grip for extended tasks and daily carry, outfitted with skeletonized stainless steel liners and a strong lockback mechanism for secure operation during cutting tasks. Its 4-way reversible pocket clip makes it convenient to carry tip-up/down or on either side of the body, while the signature Round Hole allows ambidextrous use.

Chaparral

Purchase

Key Features
Lockback
Ultra-slim handle
2-position wire pocket clip
Specifications
Blade Length
2.80″
Blade Steel
CTS XHP
Handle/Scales
Carbon Fiber/G-10 laminate
EDC Rating
Price
$$$
As one of Spyderco’s thinnest and lightest mid-sized CLIP-IT folders, the Spyderco Chaparral is a great choice for anyone looking for a discreet but capable folding knife. The hardy 2.8” CTS-XHP powdered stainless steel blade is designed for accuracy and precision, with its flat ground plain edge providing an excellent balance between strength and cutting performance. While there are many versions of the Chaparral, our choice would be the carbon fiber handle, giving it lightweight characteristics while still providing immense durability. It features a mid-positioned back lock and screw-together construction, allowing you to tighten or loosen as needed without sacrificing stability or safety.

Why Spyderco?

Founded in 1976 by Sal and Gail Glesser, Spyderco is considered to be the grandfather of the modern EDC or tactical knife. Many of the features found in modern tactical folding knives were first introduced by Spyderco, such as the pocket clip, serrations, and thumb openers. Spyderco is known for its unique blade designs and use of high-quality materials, like VG-10 and S30V steel, known for their durability and resistance to wear and corrosion. Spyderco also offers a wide range of knives, from folding and fixed-blade knives to various specialty knives for different applications, making it possible to narrow down a knife that perfectly fits your particular use case and budget.

Types of Spyderco Knives

Collectible: These knives can feature unique materials used in either the blade or the handle itself, such as premium-grade high-carbon steels. They can also showcase special designs and unique colorways.Everyday Carry: EDC knives are known for being practical in design. Compact and portable, these knives are meant to be easy to carry with you, whether in your pocket or a bag.Gentleman’s: Small, simple, and stylish, these knives honor the best of traditional knives, focusing on the quality of materials without compromising performance.Fishing/Hunting: These knives are usually corrosion-resistant, featuring special handle materials for extra grip even with wet hands.Culinary: Meant for cooking tasks, these knives come in several variations depending on their use, whether slicing through hard-crusted baked goods, chopping vegetables, or carving meats.Marine: These knives are usually made of H1 and LC200N blade steel, which are highly resistant to corrosion and perfect for use in ocean- or other saltwater-related applications.Outdoor: Outdoor knives are ideal for camping, hiking, mountain biking, climbing, and more. These knives prioritize high-grip handles, ensuring that you’re in control of the cutting in various weather conditions.Rescue: Spyderco pioneered the concept of the purpose-designed rescue knife by combining the safety of a sheepsfoot blade profile, a serrated edge, and lightweight convenience.Survival: Similar to outdoor knives, survival knives need to be highly versatile, designed to be the knife of choice for emergency situations where you don’t have many tools available.Tactical: Tactical knives are designed to meet operational requirements of duty-bound personnel, integrating features like the pocket clip, serrated edge, and one-handed opening capability while using muted or darker colors.Throwing Knives: These knives are designed to be thrown and to stick to their target, featuring exceptional balance with blades tempered to a tough spring hardness.

What to Look for When Buying a Spyderco EDC Knife

Blade size and shape: Consider the size and shape of the blade based on your needs. For example, a smaller blade may be more convenient for everyday carry, while a larger blade may be better for heavier-duty tasks.Blade material: Spyderco offers different blade materials, such as VG-10, S35VN, and LC200N, which have different properties in terms of durability, edge retention, and corrosion resistance.Lock mechanism: Look for a reliable and easy-to-use locking mechanism, such as the Compression Lock, which is found on many Spyderco knives. Also consider which locks work best if you’re left- or right-handed.Handle material and ergonomics: Consider the handle material and ergonomics of the knife for a comfortable and secure grip. Spyderco offers various handle materials, such as G-10, carbon fiber, and titanium, which have different properties in terms of durability and weight.Pocket clip: Pocket clips are convenient if you need to carry your knife in your pants pocket or clip them to your bag, but they can sometimes alter how the grip and feel of a knife. They also make the knife heavier and bulkier, taking up more real estate in your pocket. Like its lock, also consider if the model of your choice lets you carry and clip it according to your dominant hand.Price: Spyderco knives come at different price points, covering a wide range of budget considerations. Find a knife with a price you’re comfortable spending without compromising on its ability to do the tasks you need done.

Blade Shape and Edge

Spyderco knives come in a variety of blade shapes. Here are some of the most common blade shapes you’ll come across:

Drop Point: A curved edge that drops down to a point. It’s a versatile blade shape that’s great for general use.Clip Point: A blade shape with a concave curve on the back of the blade, which creates a thinner, sharper point. This is a popular blade shape choice for hunting and tactical knives.Spear Point: A symmetrically shaped blade that tapers to a point, good for piercing and slicing.Tanto: A blade shape with a straight edge and a chisel point, which makes it excellent for piercing tough materials.Sheepsfoot: A blade shape with a straight edge and a curved spine, resembling its namesake sheep’s foot. This is a popular blade shape for rescue and emergency response knives.Wharncliff: A blade shape with a straight edge that curves gradually to the point. This is an excellent blade shape for precision cutting tasks.Hawkbill: A blade shape with a deeply curved edge resembling a hawk’s beak. This blade shape is popular for its ability to make short work of tough materials.Leaf-Shaped: A blade shape wide at the base and tapers to a point, resembling a leaf. It’s a versatile blade shape that is good for slicing and piercing.Reverse S: A blade shape with a reverse curve creates a hooked tip. This is a popular blade shape for specialized cutting tasks like rope cutting.

These are just some examples of blade shapes that you’ll find featured on Spyderco knives. There are many other unique blade shapes as well.

Carry and Deployment

When it comes to Spyderco knives, “carry” typically refers to how the knife is carried on your person or in your gear, while “deployment” refers to how the knife is opened and made ready for use.

Carry: Spyderco knives can be carried in various ways, depending on the model and your personal preference. Some Spyderco knives are designed for pocket carry and feature a pocket clip that allows you to clip the knife to your pocket or waistband. Other Spyderco knives are designed for sheath carry and come with a sheath that can be attached to your belt or gear.

Deployment: Spyderco knives are known for their unique Round Hole opening, allowing for quick and easy one-handed blade deployment, even while gloved. To deploy the blade, you simply place your thumb in the thumb hole and rotate the blade open. Many Spyderco knives also feature various locking mechanisms, such as the Compression Lock or the Ball Bearing Lock, that help to ensure the blade stays securely in place when deployed.

Overall, Spyderco knives are designed with both carry and deployment in mind and are often highly regarded by knife enthusiasts for their ease of use and reliability.

Handle

Spyderco has one of the widest ranges of knife handle materials, including:

Carbon FiberCarbon Fiber/G-10 LaminateCarbon Fiber/TitaniumFRCPFRNG-10MicartaN/ARaffir NobleStainless SteelTitaniumTitanium/G-10WoodAluminum

Each material offers a different aesthetic as well as a different feel in your hand, due to varying textures and weights.

Price Ranges for Spyderco Knives

One of the great things about Spyderco is that their knives encompass price points for any budget, from the $30 C133 Bug to the (now discontinued) Slysz Bowie priced at $500.

How We Picked the Best Spyderco Knives

Decades of experience and deep connections in the everyday carry industry give us a unique viewpoint on the market to inform our product recommendations. We have the depth of information for thousands of products that have come before and an extensive eye on the market to see what’s new and trending for each piece of gear. The result is a buying guide that we feel is informative and useful for EDCers of every trade, industry, and budget.

Choose the Best Spyderco Knife!

Now that you’re armed with the information you need on Spyderco knives, we hope you’ll be able to find the perfect knife that suits your needs. Our team has decades of combined experience in all aspects of everyday men’s essentials, from wallets to pens to bags and everything in between, and we know where to find great gear ideas that you may not come across at your local stores or when shopping online. Our expertise with the industry and familiarity in design, materials, and usability help you make more informed choices when it comes to picking up your next piece of gear.

FAQs

Is Spyderco better than Benchmade?

Spyderco and Benchmade are reputable knife brands with unique features and strengths. Spyderco knives are known for their ergonomic designs, high-quality blade steels, and a wide range of blade shapes and sizes that cater to all budgets. Benchmade, on the other hand, tends to be more premium and is known for its attention to detail and craftsmanship. Ultimately, the choice between Spyderco and Benchmade will come down to your personal preferences regarding design, materials, features, and of course, budget.

Are Spyderco knives any good?

Spyderco is one of the biggest names in the knife world, with a strong following of loyal owners. Known for their innovative designs, high-quality materials, and attention to detail, Spyderco also has one of the largest selections of knives regarding handle materials and price points, ensuring that you can easily find the perfect knife your budget and your use case.

What knife is better than Benchmade?

Arguably better alternatives to Benchmade include Spyderco, WE, and Zero Tolerance knives. Extremely high-end knives like Chris Reeve and other custom knifemakers are strong contenders too. Ultimately, the best knife brand for you will depend on your preferences and needs, so it’s important to research and choose a knife that suits your specific requirements.

What is the rarest Spyderco knife?

Spyderco has produced a number of limited edition and rare knives over the years with some particular examples that are highly sought after by collectors, such as the Spyderco Nirvana and C60 Massad Ayoob which were produced in limited quantities. The rarity and value of a knife can vary depending on a number of factors, such as its condition, age, and historical significance.

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