Newbie to Spyderco questions

[ajnova]

Hello,



I'm new to Spyderco and all these steels - VG-10, AUS-6 etc etc. I thought I would be able to figure all this out and the models, to go ahead and buy a knife. I was wrong - little confused and need some help.



I want to get a every day carry pocket knife (which I think you guys call a EDC?).



I'm thinking of the Endura Lightweight over the Delica Lightweight. Seems to be a little better knife correct? Has that Boye Dent lock etc.

Now I see this (limited edition?) Calypso Jr. and wonder if that be a better knife? Blade is a little shorter? Are there any other difference between Endura and Calypso Jr.? Better yet - which one is better? I'd obviously want a good feel to the handle, good sharp (and stays sharp) blade, very strong lock etc.



I'd also like to get a tuff working knife... I'm thinking about the Native III. How is that knife? Quality, durability, blade, lock, etc? I want something that can be used for tuff jobs, get dirty, muddy, etc and still be OK. Though, I guess looking at the specs, Native III's blade is actually a little smaller then the Endura's? That be OK for me I think.... Is the Native III small enough to carry every day?



Note: Any knife I own will probably see less tuff use then with anyone else... Hardest thing I use my pocket knives for is to cut through tape on a FedEx box or something. So what I said above (I want a knife that can be used for tuff jobs etc) really isn't going to happen. It's just I want knives that COULD be used for tuff things etc.



BTW Heaven forbid - is Endura, Calypso Jr., Native III sharp enough to cut seat belts? Again I'll probably won't even get close to having to use a knife for that - but it's good to know just incase.



Couple more knife questions:



1. Is Spyderco like top 10, top 5, top 3 pocket knife makers?



2. How does Spyderco's locks compare to SOG Arc-Lock?



3. How does Spyderco knives compare with SOG's knives?



4. Could some one give me a quick run down on which steels are better then others? VG-10 is great right? Is there anything better Spyderco offers? What about like ATS-55, ATS-34, AUS-6/8, or BG-42? Where do those like rank with VG-10?



5. Does anyone ever watch Collectible Knives on "America's Store" Fridays at 10 PM eastern time? I found it one day and it's kind of fun to watch. They sell this brand called Frost Cutlery - anyone ever hear of them? I'm guessing they are a joke compared to Spyderco? All the knives are 440c steel... They sell like 200 knives for "only" $198. "$200 custom bowie for only $1.21 in this set! The steel costs more then that!"





Finally where should I shop online for Spyderco's? i read that New Graham knives is suppose to trust worthy? Only think is I went to their web site and they list Endura with ATS-55 instead of VG-10. http://www.newgraham.com/endura.htm



One comment....



To a Spyderco newbie reading these forums can get confusing.. You guys mention all these knives (Navigator, Persian, Calypso Jr. etc), though you can't find them on Spyderco's web site. Also you mention like NGK etc - it took me a while of reading to learn that meant New Graham Knives.com etc. Someone should make a newbie's page that lists all the knives how they compare, new knives coming out and their specs, and place to buy online.





I really appreciate the help! I really want to get a Spyderco ASAP! I'm very excited about them!





Thank you!

[The Deacon]

Welcome to the forum ajnova. Will try to answer your questions, at least from the perspective of a Spyderco collector...

<I>I'm thinking of the Endura Lightweight over the Delica Lightweight. Seems to be a little better knife correct? Has that Boye Dent lock etc. </I>

The latest models of both have the Boye Dent, the Calypso Jr has it too.

<I>Now I see this (limited edition?) Calypso Jr. and wonder if that be a better knife? Blade is a little shorter? Are there any other difference between Endura and Calypso Jr.? Better yet - which one is better? I'd obviously want a good feel to the handle, good sharp (and stays sharp) blade, very strong lock etc.</I>

All three are VG-10, Delica and Calypso Jr. are almost identical in blade length, Endura has about an inch longer blade, with a commensurate increase in handle length. Unless you have REALLY big hands, any will fit you well. The lock back is, IMHO, about the most reliable lock made, and Spyderco's front lock version of it better than most. In addition all Spyderco locks are factory tested. Other than the size difference, the biggest difference between the Calypso Jr and the other two is the blade grind. The Calypso Jr, with its full flat grind is the thinnest of the lot, better IMHO for things like shaving paper thin slices from a clove of garlic, but also a tad less suited for "tuff" work. On the other hand, it is also the lightest in your pocket of the lot. The others, at least the most recent production of them, have partial flat grinds, so are thicker through the top portion of the blade.

<I>I'd also like to get a tuff working knife... I'm thinking about the Native III. How is that knife? Quality, durability, blade, lock, etc? I want something that can be used for tuff jobs, get dirty, muddy, etc and still be OK. Though, I guess looking at the specs, Native III's blade is actually a little smaller then the Endura's? That be OK for me I think.... Is the Native III small enough to carry every day?</I>

Actually it's almost a full inch shorter than the Endura, only about 1/16" longer than the Delica, and 3/32" longer than the Calypso Jr. The blade is thicker, with a deep hollow grind, and the spear shaped blade gives it a different "feel" from any of them as it rides lower in your hand. The other big difference is the handle, it is considerably thicker that the others and contoured to fit you hand. Very comfortable if you have a lot of cutting to do, but the downside is that it makes the knife a bit more noticable in your pocket. Like the others, it is VG-10. There is also the regular Native, which is S30V, which many feel is even better than VG-10. While the blade is as thick as the Native III, the handle is flat and thinner, like that of the Delica, Endura, and Calypso Jr. It is also the only American made knife of this lot. Can you see why some of us wind up owning a lot of knives? Each one has its virtures and, along with them, its limitations.

<I>BTW Heaven forbid - is Endura, Calypso Jr., Native III sharp enough to cut seat belts? Again I'll probably won't even get close to having to use a knife for that - but it's good to know just incase.</I>

As they come from the factory, with the edge Spyderco puts on them, like butter, even my little Kiwi will do this easily. Many say the SpyderEdge versions do this even better, but even the plain edge work fine. Spyderco's come with what is probably the best edge of any factory knife, and, the high quality steel insures they will stay sharp longer than most. If you know how to sharpen and don't wait till they get to the "butter knife" stage, the plain edge ones are very easy to maintain.

<I>1. Is Spyderco like top 10, top 5, top 3 pocket knife makers?

2. How does Spyderco's locks compare to SOG Arc-Lock?

3. How does Spyderco knives compare with SOG's knives?</I>

Well this IS the Spyderco forum, and us SpydieNuts may be a TAD prejudiced in this regard, but I'd put them at the top of the heap. Regarding SOGs, don't own one so cannot honestly compare them, but will say I like the hole over any other opening device and, as I said earlier, rate the Spyderco front lock superior to anything out there.

<I>4. Could some one give me a quick run down on which steels are better then others? VG-10 is great right? Is there anything better Spyderco offers? What about like ATS-55, ATS-34, AUS-6/8, or BG-42? Where do those like rank with VG-10?</I>

Am not really a steel expert myself, know that all of the ones you mentioned are excellent, high quality steels, VG-10 is the top, or at least one of a group of top steels use in knives produced in Japan. CPM S30V, is one of the top ones used in American made knives, some will rate one or another higher, but IMHO, any will give you good service.

<I>5. Does anyone ever watch Collectible Knives on "America's Store" Fridays at 10 PM eastern time? I found it one day and it's kind of fun to watch. They sell this brand called Frost Cutlery - anyone ever hear of them? I'm guessing they are a joke compared to Spyderco? All the knives are 440c steel... They sell like 200 knives for "only" $198. "$200 custom bowie for only $1.21 in this set! The steel costs more then that!"</I>

Stopped watching television five years ago, things like that make me glad I did. On the other hand, 440C is not really a bad steel, but if they're 440A, that's a whole 'noter ball game, that one is perhaps one step up from "surgical stainless".

<I>Finally where should I shop online for Spyderco's? i read that New Graham knives is suppose to trust worthy? Only think is I went to their web site and they list Endura with ATS-55 instead of VG-10. http://www.newgraham.com/endura.htm</I>

Send them an email and ask, would guess its just that they have not updated the description lately. I'd venture to guess they do enough business on Spydercos that they should have "fresh stock". IMHO, Mike Dye is about the nicest and most honest dealer on the face of the earth, so if he checks and tells you they are VG-10, you can take it to the bank.

<I>To a Spyderco newbie reading these forums can get confusing.. You guys mention all these knives (Navigator, Persian, Calypso Jr. etc), though you can't find them on Spyderco's web site. Also you mention like NGK etc - it took me a while of reading to learn that meant New Graham Knives.com etc. Someone should make a newbie's page that lists all the knives how they compare, new knives coming out and their specs, and place to buy online.</I>

If it's any consolation, we all went through it, some of us more recently than others. Consider it an initiation, rite of passage, or the price of admission, or just a royal PITA.

That being said, we really do need to start bugging Sal to update the Spyderco website, its on the verge of being a disgrace it's so out of date.

As far as pictures, size comparisons and specs, check out <A HREF="http://www.ted.tweakdsl.nl/spyderco/spyderco.html"> Ted's Spyderco Page </A>
It has pictures of all current and past models, and any of the ones in the "prototype" stage where pictures are available. Even has a spec sheet with stats on most of them. All very nicely done.

Paul

Edited by - The Deacon on 1/17/2004 12:48:55 PM

[hawkbill]

Welcome to the forum, ajnova! Deacon said it better than I could.

I am what I am, and that's all that I am. Popeye

[Jimd]

Welcome to the Spyerco Forum!

As far as steels are concerned: I wouldn't worry about it if you're buying a Spyderco, because all the steels they use are at the very least, adequate for a using knife. Mostly, Spyderco uses the best steels available, so I'd dispense with that issue.

Regarding which knife to buy: I'm very biased toward the Native; I have one and absolutely love it! It's durable, holds an edge well, does everything I need it to. I like the blade shape and the Spyderedged blade.

I don"t yet have a Native III, though I plan on getting one in the future. You won't be sorry if you get one.

Sniper -- One Shot, One Kill Email: ST8PEN01@aol.com

[SpYdercat]

Deacon,
Thanks for mentioning Teds page. I just found the info I was asking about in another thread.
As for the Newbie questions. My advice is... be carful. I bought my first SpYderco knife last Oct. & at last count I have 30.
I would say my favorite EDC is the Delica. But that isn't the only one I carry. I have 2 key chains, one has a Cricket the other has a Jester.
I have bought most of my knives off E-Bay & from Sawyers Cutlery. http://shop.store.yahoo.com/sawyerscutlery/
As far as QUALITY they are just great. Even the used knives I've bought are in great condition.
Also the people at SPYDERCO are very nice. I sent one of the used knives (that had been abused) to SPYDERCO to be re-sereated and was really suprised at how helpfull they were on the phone. The knife came back like new.
I also am very new to this but I say Buy SPYDERCO and you can't go wrong.
THANKS, KEN


SpYderco Collector #41

[The Deacon]

Spydercat, it is Ted that deserves the thanks of all us Spydieholics for putting that site together. It's amazing how much historical information vital to collectors can slip through the cracks in just 20 years, only to have to be ferreted out and pieced together by dedicated individuals like Ted.

And yes, the can become addictive, bought my first one less than a year ago, darn near four dozen of them later, I'm still saying "which one should I get next?". Also agree that razorsharpknife (Sawyer's eBay name) is one of the most reliable eBay sellers and their BIN prices on some models are hard to beat, have bought a few from them myself.

Paul

[SpYdercat]

Just got back from a wrecker call for one of the local PD's.
Defently THANKS TED.
I now have it on my favorites so it will be handy.

SpYderco Collector #41

[J Smith]

Whatever one you get your search will end with the Military.The best folding knife in the world.

<img src=http://techhelpers.net/e4u/drink/trink36.gif

[vampyrewolf]

Jeff: no, it ends with customs...

my latest kick.

<img src="http://www.members.shaw.ca/pjharyett/spyderco/spyder5.gif"><br>Mei Fides, Mei Victus<br>Coffee Before Conciousness<br> Vampyrewolf@yahoo.com

[Chris_H]

ajnova,

Welcome to the forums!

I am posting a pic of 4 of the knives mentioned (Endura (black blade), C10PBBK; Native, C41PBK; Native III, C78PBK; Calypso Jr. Gray, C52PGY). Hopefully this will assist you in making an informed decision on which knife to purchase first -- notice that buying &quot;ONE&quot; may lead to an addictive purchasing cycle (as you no doubt have deduced by reading various threads here.)

Any one of these would be a great EDC, based on your criteria, and will meet your expectations with the caveats that The Deacon stated in his post.

If you have Spyderco dealers in your area, I highly suggest that you take the opportunity to handle some of the ones you are considering. This will also assist you in making a better decision based on your criteria.

Good luck, and I know that your new Spyderco (whichever you get) will be satisfying.

Chris_H

P.S. -- Yeah, my digital photography skills suck. Hopefully, it does you some good anyway.

[Alan2112]

Welcome aboard, ajnova! RKBA!

[J Smith]

VW I really don't think custums could get much better.More fanncy maybe but not much better.

<img src=http://techhelpers.net/e4u/drink/trink36.gif

[vampyrewolf]

Jeff: better for me, can get something to fitt my monkey mitts. Pricy though.

280cad on the first(3 weeks ago I got it), have 3 more enroute, made an order tonight for one and have another one getting worked on for month end purchase

<img src="http://www.members.shaw.ca/pjharyett/spyderco/spyder5.gif"><br>Mei Fides, Mei Victus<br>Coffee Before Conciousness<br> Vampyrewolf@yahoo.com

[DAYWALKER]

Aloha Ajnova!

The Deacon covered it well so I'm just welcoming you to the forum!

Great job Paul!

God will put you over...if you let Him! Mark 11:23!

[The Deacon]

Thanks for the compliments everyone, and just to add one more hint for our new member...

Do be sure to check out the Spyderco Edge-U-Cation section, it does cover some of the both the Spyderco specific and more general terms we use here, has cutaway drawings illustrating the various locking systems, a steel chart showing the composition of quite a few of the popular knife steels, and a timeline, albeit incomplete and WAY out of date, (you reading this Sal?) showing when at least some of the various models were introduced.

Paul

[Shiden]

Ajnova, welcome on the <img src="spyder.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0> Forum.

Shiden-Kaj


<IMG SRC="http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/avatar.php?userid=126202&dateline=1073689062" ALT="Lux et Libertas">

[sal]

Hi Ajnova. Welcome to the Spyderco forums.

Spyderco has many things to offer our customers; Exotic materials, integrity, very close tolerances, &quot;in-house&quot; standards, good customer service, innovation, interesting designs and Spyderco forumites.

&quot;Quality is the product of a good attitude&quot;

sal

[ajnova]

Thank you guys so much for the help!

I'm not 100% sure yet - but I think I'm going to get the Calypso Jr. first. From my understanding, it has a 2.88 inch blade? Deacon said it be the lightest (like vs. Endura)... How thick is the the handle?

Finally, how does Spyderco vs. Benchmade? I know your opinions may be biased and everything... So then please tell me why you think Spyderco is better then Benchmade.

Thank you guys!

[The Deacon]

The Calypso Jr, FRN Delica, and probably the FRN Endura (don't have one yet) are all about 3/8&quot; thick. The Native is about 1/2&quot; thick, and the Native III at its &quot;fattest&quot; points is about 5/8&quot;. If you like thin and light, and are willing to spend about twice as much, there is the Carbon Fiber Delica to consider, that one is a mere 1/4&quot; thick, and has the same VG-10 steel as the FRN model.

Benchmade is a good and reputable company too. Many who frequent this forum own and love both brands. I personally prefer Spydercos because the hole works better for me than any other opening device and the front lock is my lock of choice. Spyderco offers a much wider selection of knives with both these features. I also appreciate the fact that every Spyderco knife I've ever purchased came from the factory razor sharp. Benchmade factory edge quality is not as consistent. Finally, and perhaps most importantly to me, I appreciate the fact that Sal actually listens to our comments, criticisms, and suggestions and, more often than not, acts on them. The Calypso Jr is a case in point, it was discontinued due to slow sales. We begged, we pleaded, we threatened to hold our breathes until we turned blue, and Sal made some. He may have crossed his fingers and said a few prayers, but he made them. I asked, half in jest, how big a bribe it would take to get a plain edge 93mm Rescue, a model which Spyderco only makes in SpyderEdge. Sal offered to make a small batch of them. Things like that are what make me a loyal Spyderco customer.

Paul

[dynaryder]

ajnova: I own Spydercos,Benchmades,and SOG's. In terms of quality,I'd put BM and SOG as equal w/Spyderco just a touch ahead(I'm comparing regular models,not custom collabs). The Arc,Axis,and Ball locks are all pretty equal in terms of how slick they work. Spyderco's Ball lock has a slight edge in that it's the simplist(just a ball bearing and a coil spring). Their liner locks are also about equal. Spyderco's lockbacks are superior to the other's,however. They work slicker and the closing button is placed better. They also have the Boye dent for added safety. As for steel quality,they're all close,but Spyderco and BM offer more variety. Spyderco also offers models w/premium VG-10 and S30V steel at lower prices. I think Spydeco also offers more variety of models. Finally,Spyderco has the best warranty and customer service of the three.

[ajnova]

Hey guys!

First I'd like to say how deeply impressed I'm with the help and kindness you guys have shown me. Thank you!

And well yes... few more questions...

1. I have sent for a 2004 catalog (can't wait!!!!!!!!) However, could someone quickly tell me what this new Para Military is? Like the specs?

2. My name is Andrew.... I'm addicted to Spyderco knives. Even though I don't have one yet. hehe

Well I'm making a Spydie (is that the lingo?) wish list of the knives I know about (so obvious 2004 models not on the list yet)

1. Calypso Jr.

2. Delica (maybe Carbon Fiber if it's still around)

3. Endura

4. Military

5. Chinhook II

6. Native or Native III

7. Maybe, maybe not Carbon Fiber Police

8. Fun knife or two... like Dodo or something

9. A.T.R. At The Ready

Dang, that's a lot of knives!!!!

In your opinion's, if you had to shorten that list to so it only have unique to each knives, what would they be? Like you maybe could say Endura and Military is close enough, to only get one of the two... Delica and Calypso Jr. maybe close enough together to just get one etc.

Or if you could recommend others to add to the wish list.. please name away!


Little off topic here: any one have a pair of these http://x.oakley.com/catalog/display/colors/mens/footwear/industrial/si_assault_boot/black ? Look pretty awesome!

Thank you guys so much!

EDIT: BTW What are the chances of an assisted opening Spyderco? like SOG Flash etc.

Edited by - ajnova on 1/20/2004 7:11:43 PM

Edited by - ajnova on 1/20/2004 7:26:00 PM

[jestyr]

the para is prob one of the most anticipated spydies in a long time. with the success spyderco has had with the full size military, people are chompin at the bit for the smaller one. i know ill be in line for one of these. the are three main reason this is gonna be one of the most perfect knives to come around; S30V steel is one of the top dog steels right now, G10 handles are always awesome and its sub 4 inches which makes it legal in _most_ places. good stuff all around, ill be getting one for me and one for my brother.

[J Smith]

Para specs.I can't wait to get this one.
Blade steel...CPM-S30V
Edge type.....PE or SE,full flat grind
weight........3.75 oz
Blade length..3 3/32 in
overall length7 7/8 in
scales........Black G10
Lock..........nested compression lock
opening hole size..14 mm
Clip......Tip down carry,3 screw black.
Made in Golden CO.
No engraveing on blade.
BTW when is this thing going to be ready?


<img src=http://techhelpers.net/e4u/drink/trink36.gif

[Chris_H]

Para-Military avalability --
Mr. Glesser hinted at the BladeForums that it might be as early as end of January or the first week of February...

Link:
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&amp;threadid=288722