Calypso Jr in ZDP-189...worth it?

Deadhead Archer

Deadhead Archer

Joined
Sep 11, 2002
Messages
1,862
I've been considering the purchase of this blade. I've seen favorable reviews from the few here that own one, but I have a hard time rationalizing it when I also can get a BM 710 in M2, Para-Military, or a BM Skirmish for just a little bit more (all 3 I've been wanting for a while, especially the 710).

I enjoy experimenting with various steels in my EDCs. I started with M2, have a few VG-10s, and include D2, ATS-34, 154CM, S30V, along with a few AUS-8s and 440A Kershaws to my "arsenal". I know that if ZDP-189 were to catch on and be offered more widely, I'd definitely buy one someday. The fact that it is a limited offering is somewhat attractive in itself. Is there word of any more ZDP-189 models to come?

I recently got the S30V Native, love it; and the Calypso Jr. seems similar in blade shape and design. How does ZPD-189 compare to S30V?

As to the current owners, is the Calypso in ZDP "worth it"?
 
I would say it's worth it considering the limited run. I think they are hard to come by lately. My experience is that they are easier to get scary sharp than the S30V blades. I don't notice the difference in steels but then again I'm not a heavy duty knife user.:thumbup:
 
I would say if you have found one that you better buy it while you can. They are worth every penny but don't expect to see the window of opportunity for long. With only 1500 made they are not going to be available readily for much longer.

STR
 
i have 2 and love them...yes they are unbelievably sharp....if you can find a new one buy it but the prices have gone up because of the demand. I paid $66 ea for mine. Hope you find one!!
 
How about a comparison to that other super steel, Super Gold Powder Steel (62 HRC) surrounded by VG-10 by Fallkniven?

Similiar?

I've thinking about that Delica myself, as I enjoy the different steel experimentation myself (along with profile).
 
The ZDP Calypso worth every penny.
The low angle, flat grind blade, 67 Hrc Steel makes it a "pocket razor".
I always carry it together with another "heavy duty" folder, for bigger tasks, like the Manix or the BM630.

Go for it. You can't go wrong. ;)

Regards,

Andre Tiba - Brazil
 
Worth it? Absofreakinglutely!!! I just ordered myself a second one!! And like has been mentioned, they are coming out with a Delica in ZDP, and I have been fortunate enough to order one of those.
 
it's up to you !
Caly Jr is a small folder and Bm710 is much bigger... but cost twice the price of the caly.
So main question is : for Xristmas, which size of folder do you really want?:confused:
 
Because it was a limited run knife is the main reason I didn’t get one. I personally feel that easily replaceable has a lot of value to me, even though my edc knives have become discontinued models. It just seems this one was born as a collector knife. It's probably well worth it the Calypso Jr is a great knife.
 
Everyone here sure was persuasive in making my decision! :cool: Now to wait for the brown Santa...

TheKnifeCollector, it was your recent post in GB&U that put the bug in my hat to begin with! :D My thanks to you!
 
Worth every penny !!! Even though it's a limited run, I think it was done at a price point that it becomes a user....not a "Safe Queen". I've beat the hell out of mine and you just can't seem to hurt it.
 
You are in for a treat. That ZDP Caly is awesome. It will lift a thin layer of skin if you try to shave with it.:eek:
 
You will LOVE your Caly, Jr. with ZDP!! I am glad that I could help!! I have had mine on me everyday, since I got it!! (I always carry more than 1 knife with me anyway.) My Caly, Jr. is my little buddy!!
 
TheKnifeCollector said:
You will LOVE your Caly, Jr. with ZDP!! I am glad that I could help!! I have had mine on me everyday, since I got it!! (I always carry more than 1 knife with me anyway.) My Caly, Jr. is my little buddy!!
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Agreed. Now that I've been using mine for a while, it's worth much more than they are asking. As for comparing it to S30V, mine easily holds it's edge 3x longer. I also have a pretty low opinion of S30V, so keep that in mind also. YMMV.

A great deal, can't wait for the Delicas!
 
Don't think about it anymore, just buy one if you can.

It's a great knife, I carry mine everywhere.

It will come sharper and stay sharper than any other knife you have, I promise.
 
Well, the Calypso Jr arrived today, :cool: - thanks to the guys at Island-Tactical.com for getting it to me before Christmas!! :thumbup:

First impressions are Wow! This thing has an edge OTB like I've NEVER seen before! :eek: I sliced the box it came in, a few other boxes at work, sliced some envelopes (lots of Christmas cards in the mail to open :cool:) and it's asking for more! Like the other Spydercos I own, it has a good "user" design. Sal, I am looking forward to more blades in this steel!

Thanks again to everyone who contributed to this thread who helped me make up my mind! :D :D
 
It is an incredible knife that Sal made in limited numbers... I held off for awhile, but finally bought two. Grab one while you can. Unless you dislike burgandy, you will like this version of the Calypso Jr. You could almost use it as a scalpel ...

The Calypso Jr is one of my favorites with VG10, so the ZDP version is a treat. :thumbup:
 
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