Calypso Jr. - Micarta vs Lightweight FRN

Jeff/1911 · Jan 22, 2002

Hi,

I own a micarta handled Calypso Jr, w/ a plain edge and I wonder what the difference is between this and the FRN model? I know they differ in their handle (scale) material and VG-10 blade steel vs. AUS-8 for the micarta version. Aside from these differences however, I recall hearing that their shape or feel were subtly different. Does anyone care to comment on this?

The reason I ask is that while I like the looks and richness of my Calypso Jr. micarta, I don't end up carrying it that much. I'm not sure why, but I wonder if I might prefer the lightweight version or at least end up using it more w/ it's VG-10 blade...

Now is the time to buy one, as they are still available and at very good prices it seems. I don't think I can lose by picking one up. After all, I just finished telling another forumite recently how the one he was considering was a deal at twice the price. Better listen to my own words.

Thanks for listening to my musings....Jeff/1911.

Snow · Jan 22, 2002

Well the only thing that really strikes me as drastically different between the two is that the micarta one seems a little lighter and more balanced towards the blade. It also has a thicker handle and the FRN feels thinner and grips better.

Jeff/1911 · Jan 22, 2002

Thanks snow,

That is useful information. I should've taken the opportunity to handle one while my local dealer still has some in stock, then I wouldn't need to ask.

Jeff/1911.

Sgian Dubh · Jan 27, 2002

Hi
I've got both knives and I've got to disagree with the last post. The micarta handle may measure thicker but in your hand the FRN feels bigger and grips way better. This may be because the handle edges are more rounded on the micarta.
Come to think about it I was convinced the micarta was thinner so I did a back to back comparison a while ago and I was surprised they looked about the same thickness. I've taken the clip off my micarta Calypso and carry it as my suit knife during the day. The FRN VG10 combo is in my opinion one of the best knives Spyderco have ever made, if you like weell made razor sharp pointy things with light ergonomic handles and a very reasonable price.
SD

Tom S · Mar 1, 2002

The only folder I've dropped, while using, has been my micarta Calypso Jr. Seems to be a slippery knife to hold on to.

Rugger · Mar 1, 2002

I just got a Micarta Calypso Jr. (thx Gene) yesterday- I'm really tickled to have it, but haven't put it to work yet. For purely aesthetic reasons, I tend to prefer Micarta over FRN. I remember the days when Micarta on a knife was a big deal.

Jeff/1911 · Mar 1, 2002

Folks,

It cuts extremely well, but more than I just like to look at and fondle my micarta Calypso Jr. It is just so classy looking (and feeling).

Rugger - To me, having micarta on a knife is still a big deal.

Cheers, Jeff/1911.

Liko · Mar 2, 2002

Micarta is for looks. As everyone has asid, it looks great. But, if your hands are sweaty, or there's a little too much oil in the pivot, the handle will quickly get slippery.

FRN, through cheaper-looking, allows for an infinite array of texturing. The fish-scale pattern really grips well, though it may irritate your hand after a long day of using it. the lightweight Calypso is a great choice for everyday cutting. It's IMO a more ergonomic Delica.