Civy History

I

IanUndertall

Joined
Nov 1, 2001
Messages
33
I'll be picking up my new Civilian on Sunday and am interested in knowing a few things about it.
First, it was "developed for a prestigious branch of US law enforcement." Which branch? When did it start being produced? Who designed and named it? Why was it named the "Civilian" when it was made for LEOs? Why oh why oh why doesn't it come with SS handles?

Thanks,
Ian
 
I think I have a few answers for you, although not all of them. I bought my first civi in the early part of 1993. I know they made them at least a year before that though. It was named the Civilian for several reasons. First and foremost, to make it a "white hat" in a "black hat" world (Good vs. Evil) There was an interesting brochure that came with mine stating this interesting analogy. I also believe this holds up in court much better than "sentry removal tool". Civilian implies it is an every day tool, i.e. linolium knife, pruning knife, fish net knife (Harpy, Merlin). Lastly, the scales. I can't remember if there were ever SS scales, but I have one of the early models, Tuff-Ram coated hardened aluminum scales w/ Kraton insert on the left hand scale. The pocket clip was massive and shaped like a beaver tail. It too had a checkered Kraton insert that passed throught to the underside to cling to the pocket better (like a Pro-Venator). Several handles have been produced, but I always favored mine, for it had the best asthetics!
Thanks :D
 
Hi Ian. Welcome to the Spyderco forum. Thanx for the input Wire Edge and welcome as well.

The Civilian was designed for DEA workers with no MBC skill. Something to carry while working under cover. The name was used to offset the appearance and to designate that it was not a model for the Bloods, etc. The knife is not promoted and is made in limited production. The design is an in house design. Stainless handles would make the knife too heavy.

hope that helps.

sal
 
DEA. Considered joining them once but the agent I spoke to was, well, "physically impared from his job" i.e. had been shot, stabbed, beaten, etc. Thought a safer job might be more condusive to raising a family.
Thanks for the input everyone. I picked it up today, and I have to say I certainly wouldn't want to be on the sharp end of this knife. Ouch! I wasn't crazy about the G10 until I really got my hands on it, now I love it.
Any plans for a Harpy with G10?
The Chinook is now on my list for the next Spyder purchase. Can't wait.

Thanks again,
Ian
 
Originally posted by IanUndertall
Any plans for a Harpy with G10?
Click to expand...

There was a G-10 Harpy made but I think it has been discontinued. Ask around on the forums: I bet someone has one they'd be willing to part with.
 
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