delica 4 vs 3

edb

Joined
Aug 30, 2002
Messages
740
No doubt there has been considerable information around here on this topic - I've read some of it in the past weeks. For some reason, I can't find the posts I'm looking for. I dug up my old Delica 3 last night, and decided I either want to get another one before they're gone - or not (?!).

What I'm wondering is:

1. Anyone have both, and care to comment on the differences? I've heard that the 4 has a less pointy tip than the 3, which offhand sounds bad - but maybe it's not that different.

2. Any side-by-side pics that anyone has taken?

Thanks in advance for supplying what will probably be redundant information...:)
 
I collect Delicas, I have the the first ones with the narrow plastic clip right up to Delica III.While I don't have any D4 's yet I do have the Endura 4.

Yes the tip is thicker which I like but I did share your concern that the thicker tip would lose ability to pierce etc. I found that to be a non issue for me !

I just love this knife, the tip has worked well for me. I like beefier knives and I feel that the new ones are an improvement. The feel of the knife is great, the new bi-direction grip is outstanding the nested liners take away flex without adding a lot of bulk. The new grooves on the back of the hump feel and work fine.

Those who like fine tips and thin blades may prefer the D3's, I wasn't sure myself untill I got one.

I'll be getting a new D4 soon as well as a waved one (or 2) a zdp one and whatever else Sal makes that causes me to spend my money.

Somewhere I saw side by side pics,I'll look around and see if I find a link.

opps ! I guess you can see them on the above post.
 
The sheep-footed tip is not as much so as I thought when I saw the prototype pictures. Don't worry about it too much.

The handle edge where your index and middle fingers rest is not as sharp as the Delica 3. It's still rounded there, but the previous one was more of a bevel than a rounding, resulting in a sharp edge. On the new one, the bevel/rounding makes a full 90 degrees before hitting the inner edge of the handle slab. Much better for a tight grip.

The handle just has a better shape overall. It feels better when I hold it. Not as good as some other models, but maybe more of a general purpose design (a Scorpius or Native aren't so good for sideways gripping, though I like them better for a thumb-over-the-spine grip). But you aren't giving up much, and I may end up deciding I like the new Delica better over time.

Despite the strong grip pattern, the low part of the pocket clip rests on the logo, which is mostly flat, so it slides over a pocket without damaging it. The previous model was not bad, but just slightly more agressive feeling when being clipped on.

No up/down (with the edge facing the floor) blade play at all, unless I apply unnatural force to it. You would basically consider it zero play, as I can only barely feel it with all my might, but it's not visible. The pivot screw fits through the blade with precision, definitely providing the expected benefit over a pressed/peened pin. It's very solid.

The pivot feels a little tight, but better than most of the old ones which needed a few days of playing around to smooth out.
 
just purchased one on ebay - the (seemingly) loooong wait for a knife begins...
I've always loved the delica. My BM AXIS is great - but too heavy for some pants. The delica is tough AND lightweight which is a very useful combination. I once broke the tip on the older model (although I was abusing the knife) so Im looking forward to the new tip. Haven't had a new spyderco in almost two years - I can't wait to become re-aquainted with razor-sharp VG-10!!!!!!
 
The new Delica 4 is one tough little knife!! The point is still plenty good. When it locks into place it does so with a very commanding thwack. It is a solid little knife. If you have liked the Delicas before, I see no reason why you will not like the new ones. They are great.
DSCN5520_edited-1.jpg


Ron
 
My new FRN PE Delica 4 arrived yesterday. It's absolutely fantastic! :thumbup: :thumbup:

One of the reasons why I didn't carry (as much as I used to) the Delica 3 I've had for years is because it's tip up, and I usually carry a Paramil which is tip down. So, when I wanted something really lightweight, and a little smaller than the Paramil, I would want to carry the Delica 3 - but sometimes hesitated because of the orientation.

When the 4 showed up yesterday, I immediately moved the clip (piece of cake; I was somewhat worried about stripping the screws, but the Torx 6 worked just fine) to tip down, and now it's just right :thumbup: :thumbup:

You've done it again, Sal! Keep up the good work!
 
The Delica 4 is a great knife! It has a little more heft than previous versions of the Delica and is slightly longer in the handle. These two features combined with the new handle shape make the knife feel really good in the hand. I like the new blade shape--much stronger tip and a sturdy blade. Very sharp. This one's a natural user and an excellent EDC. A good looking knife too. I'm happy!
 
I have been a huge fan of the delica for some time and have always found that a CE one comes in handy to leave in my upland vest for taking care of the assorted upland game each year. Personally i prefer the Delica III's pointy tip for detailed work and for the price it has always served me beyond what was expected. I have to get a Delica IV and see how it is, i dont know if i like the tip, but then again i wont till i try it.
J
 
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