Almite Dragonfly?

[storyville]

There have been prior suggestions to upgrade the D.fly’s blade steel, but I think AUS-8A is perfect for its applications. However, esp. since the CF model is no longer available, I think the D.fly would benefit from an Almite body. Following the Lum’s green and the Navigator’s blue, the Almite D.fly could even have its own distinguishing color -- a rust orange or a fiery red like its namesake, perhaps?

Given its size, and Spyderco’s distribution through stores like REI and Campmor, an Almite D.fly might well appeal to non-knife knuts, too. I imagine a bright orange Almite D.fly (or one in other colors) would sell well in airports and traveler’s stores, too.

Apologies if this has already been suggested. If not -- how ‘bout it, Sal?!?

Glen

PS: This is my first time trying out the "Poll" function. Please cast your vote!

 

[gadgetman]

An orange or red one would be pretty cool. Based on the wear on my SS Dragonfly's scales, I don't know how well the colored almite would hold up.

 

[Carlos]

There is, I think, a new upcoming model with a much more advanced design that will fulfill a similar function/aesthestic role that an Almite Dragonfly would. I don't think that we are permitted to discuss it yet on this public a forum though. Patience...

 

[storyville]

Oh Carlos, you are SO evil

 

[Tommi]

I have always wanted micarta dragonfly. It would be otherwise as CF dragonfly but with calypso style micarta scales.
I'd probably get almite dragonfly if it was available but wouldn't rush for it.

 

[Gary Hudson]

The stainless model dragonfly has ats-55 steel. There is a thread reporting problems with that steel, but my dragonfly is still pristine. It does get some use, too.
That being said, almite would be nice.
G.

 

[Sal Glesser]

For discussion purposes; would a colored Almite be preferred over micarta?

sal

 

[Architect]

Micarta yes. Preferrably with the linen texture, not polished.

While we are at it, colored micarta, any color would be great. I happen to be partial to white micarta as well (ala the Al Mar cigar cutter).

I have an old Buck 500 with burgundy micarta/nickel bolsters that is so attractive...but it weighs almost as much as my Chinook.

Is Carlos referring to the so-called "S" knife mentioned in another forum? I thought that knife was going to have titanium scales.

 

[Carlos]

Originally posted by Architect
I thought that knife was going to have titanium scales.

One version in Ti, the other in Almite.

 

[gadgetman]

Originally posted by Sal Glesser
For discussion purposes; would a colored Almite be preferred over micarta?

sal

How about an iridescent green/purple like a dragonfly?

gm

 

[Thorin Hammer]

How about a handle color that looks like the iridescence of an oil spill? As to what kind of handle? Almite.

 

[eccentrich]

Originally posted by Sal Glesser
For discussion purposes; would a colored Almite be preferred over micarta?

sal

For me, yes. They're both great materials, but I prefer almite. Particularly for a small knife, where the tradeoffs between weight and (perceived) sturdiness are so critical.

The color possibilities are fairly intriguing too...

 

[Tommi]

Sal, Calypsos are so incredibly great looking with micarta handles and ss backspacer that it is impossible to make better looking knife with almite handles.
If calypso type micarta handles are not possible, I think that green or burgundy would look nice.

 

[prn]

For me, Micarta or that G10/shell stuff like on the Vesuvius.

I gather that the color on Almite suffers from nicks, scratches and abrasion. Micarta or the G10 would have compatible color for some distance inside so nicks and scratches would be less visible. I also love the feel of the smooth Micarta when I carry my Calypso Jr. It may not be the fiercest grip, but it isn't a "hard-use" knife for me. It's a knife that I'm more inclined to carry on dressy occasions than on "down and dirty" expeditions.

If there is a comparably small knife of different design "in the works" as Carlos suggests, that could be nice too, but the Dragonfly is so elegant that it just cries out for nicer handles. There isn't a cleaner design to be found. The Dragonfly and the Calypso family are the best looking (and best cutting) knives around.

Paul

 

[storyville]

Originally posted by prn
I gather that the color on Almite suffers from nicks, scratches and abrasion. Micarta or the G10 would have compatible color for some distance inside so nicks and scratches would be less visible.

The Almite coatings are a bit more scratch resistant than one might think. It is more durable than, for example, anodized titanium. As for colors: I think the Almite allows for far more dynamic colors than Micarta. Can one find firecracker red or rust orange in Micarta?

If there is a comparably small knife of different design "in the works" as Carlos suggests, that could be nice too, but the Dragonfly is so elegant that it just cries out for nicer handles. There isn't a cleaner design to be found. The Dragonfly and the Calypso family are the best looking (and best cutting) knives around.

I agree completely -- "clean designs" is a great way to put it. I think of the Military/ Calypso/ Dragonfly as the unofficial "flagship" series of Spyderco.

My vote would be for Almite over Micarta -- the Almite is exclusively (or nearly?) a Spyderco feature.

Bring it on, Sal!

Glen

 

[Jeff/1911]

I guess my response won't be very helpful. I love micarta. I think Almite is fabulous. Either of these would be a very welcome addition to the lineup.

Jeff/1911.