Changes in the Civilian?

Joined
Nov 5, 1999
Messages
31
Recently I saw a photograph of a Civilian with a G-10 handle that seemed to have holes drilled for tip up or down carry. I have a carbon-handled model with this feature, but is it now being done for the standard model as well?

I also seem to remember hearing that the steel might be changed before too long. Has anyone heard if this is going to happen?

Thanks in advance for any information.

Carl
 
I bought 2 Civies in 2002 in ATS-55 steel with G-10 handles, and both were drilled and tapped for tip-up or tip-down carry. The catalog and website both indicated tip-down carry, if I remember correctly. I seem to recall another on the forum who indicated his newer Civie had both sets of holes, and was in VG-10 steel. IMHO, the Civie IS the folding karambit that everyone keeps requesting. I carry two at work (police patrol officer) and one at other times. I left one tip-down, and changed the other to tip-up.
 
Interesting.

On a different... Well how would carrying a Civilian be seen in LEO eyes? Would you not find it very difficult to justify the use of such a knife even in self defence? Even as a law officer? Not being critical in ANY way here, just intersted!
 
Thanks for the information. I prefer to have the clip to the rear of the knife. It's great to hear that Spyderco is making it possible to have it both ways. I am going to have to pick up another one.

I agree with Rex about the Civilian being a great folding kerambit. To be honest, I prefer the reverse-S curve to most hooked blades. Thanks agian.

Carl
 
General, I have read somewhere that one state in the USA had prohibited hawkbill-type knives. IMHO, such knives are less deadly than a knife that can be used for stabbing/thrusting, and indeed, in most jurisdictions in the USA, daggers are illegal. The Civilian will be illegal in many places due to its blade length, if for no other reason. In Texas, where I enforce the law, the blade length limit is 5.5 inches, so the Civie is legal. For some reason, hookbill knives appear very frightening to many people. I personally feel such knives are best suited for defense and not offense. Mine are purely for defense, of course. IF I wanted to kill someone, I would choose a more versatile blade suited for thrusting deep into the body, probably a Bowie. (Of course that is purely hypothetical!) Being a "peacable man," hookbill knives suit me, although my "primary" knife is a Spyderco Gunting, which is another knife suited for using less-than-lethal force. For travel to states with shorter blade length limits, I have Spyderco Harpies and MOD Ladyhawks. Yes, I confess to carrying a girlie knife sometimes!
 
Carl M:
I have two Civilians. I purchased them about a month apart. One is ATS-55. One is VG-10. Both are able to be carried tip up or down.
I love 'em. Have one on me right now clipped to my 'jama pants.


Rex G:
From what I have seen of you here, you are a good person, and a good cop. You sound like a fair man. When I go visit my folks in Beaumont, I always bring my "Texas Knives".:D
 
Rex G

I find the CUDA MAXX bowie and Civilian, both legal carry in Texas, to be an awesome pair of self defense knives. The Maxx for strong hand thrusting and the Civilian in weak hand for parry and slice. Both are easily carried clipped to pockets or waistbands.

I agree that the Civilian may be the ultimate Karambit. Looking close, a good machinist (I'm not one) could mill a sizable hole in the scales for your pinky without cutting into vital "innards". I wish I knew some one I could trust to do it for me.

Rex I appreciate your posts and did finally find a copy of the Karambit book you referenced some time back. Keep your head down and watch your six. I for one feel better knowing there are LEO's in Texas that support my rights to self defense.
 
Thanks again for all of the comments. It sounds like the Civilian has a loyal following.

I noticed that some folks have already managed to get Civilians in VG-10 steel, but I have only been able to find sources for the ATS-55 models. I already have one of those with the G-10 handle and tip-down carry. Would anyone be able to give me leads as to who might be selling the newest model? It is my understanding that VG-10 is a bit tougher steel. Thank you for any leads.

Carl
 
You're welcome! Actually Glasshartt is a she, Linda. A friend told me he got a VG-10 Civie, with dual clip mounting positions, from her.
 
IMO, the Civilian would be just perfect with four-way clip mounts for tip up/down and left/right-hand carry, just like the new Chinook II. That would be the utmost in versatility.
 
Leo, thanks for your suggestion, and I second the motion for the four clip positions. I highly respect the experience from which you draw your opinion. Roshi and EXECUTION STYLE, thanks for your support!
 
Originally posted by Rex G
I have Spyderco Harpies and MOD Ladyhawks. Yes, I confess to carrying a girlie knife sometimes!

I wouldn't like to get involved into a knifefight with "girlie" Graciela and her little Ladyhawk, even if I had a Rambo III survival knife in my hand;)

MoD makes some fine knives. Too bad they didn't find out of G10 ;) A Ladyhawk with G10 scales instead of aluminum... I'd carry one even if I am a Spyderco addict :)
 
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