Aesthetically, the Para does nothing for me. The blade is shorter than I prefer, the handle is kind of chubby (at least when compared with the slim lines of the Millie), the blade-to-handle ratio is way off, the 2 screws of the handle are not equally placed near the upper margin, and yes, the corner of the tang does stick outside. Still, in the PC environment that we live in, I had to consider a smaller folder for EDC, but one that keeps the essential attributes of my favorite folder (the above said Millie).
(Usually, entering the mess hall at work and starting to prepare a sandwich usually resulted in people gasping for breath so I figured what the heck, theyre still my co-workers, maybe Ill need their help one day, why choke them to death every lunch at the mere sight of my millie ?)
Aesthetics aside, Para is all about functionality, and manages to blend in its design all that I usually look for in a folder:
Open back construction.
I have a dedicated carry pocket and I like having the ability to effortless flush away eventual debris that might get caught inside, so no backspacer please.
G10 handles.
I much prefer composites (G10, CF, micarta), with a special thumbsup for Spydercos recipe (probably the best G10 in the industry). The digicam G10 feels even grippier than their usual stuff and also shows some improvement in the looks department (translucent on the inside).
Robust blade with a splinter picker tip.
Stupid-proof thick tips (like on the Endura/Delica 4) may be good for the average user, but please please keep narrow tips on the more specialized blades, we wont break them.
Premium stainless steel.
My D2 Para performs like a champ but IWB during summertime asked for something more appropriate, hence the decision to buy S30V.
Great edge geometry.
A slightly negative angle lessens the pressure on the joint and makes cutting for extended periods of time more comfortable.
Ease of deployment.
I tend to shy away from low-riding clips as I feel ease of access is of the essence. I honestly believe that the clip currently found on the Para/Millie is the best there is. No matter where you choose to carry the folder (IWB, clipped inside RFP, upside down on the shoulder strap of your backpack) the knife can be deployed in an instant. Also, the Para is one of the most spyder-droppable (if this is a real word) folders in Spydercos lineup.
All in all, the digicam Para has become my go to folder.
PS: I still anxiously await weekends so I can clip one of my Millies IWB though.
(Usually, entering the mess hall at work and starting to prepare a sandwich usually resulted in people gasping for breath so I figured what the heck, theyre still my co-workers, maybe Ill need their help one day, why choke them to death every lunch at the mere sight of my millie ?)
Aesthetics aside, Para is all about functionality, and manages to blend in its design all that I usually look for in a folder:
Open back construction.
I have a dedicated carry pocket and I like having the ability to effortless flush away eventual debris that might get caught inside, so no backspacer please.
G10 handles.
I much prefer composites (G10, CF, micarta), with a special thumbsup for Spydercos recipe (probably the best G10 in the industry). The digicam G10 feels even grippier than their usual stuff and also shows some improvement in the looks department (translucent on the inside).
Robust blade with a splinter picker tip.
Stupid-proof thick tips (like on the Endura/Delica 4) may be good for the average user, but please please keep narrow tips on the more specialized blades, we wont break them.
Premium stainless steel.
My D2 Para performs like a champ but IWB during summertime asked for something more appropriate, hence the decision to buy S30V.
Great edge geometry.
A slightly negative angle lessens the pressure on the joint and makes cutting for extended periods of time more comfortable.
Ease of deployment.
I tend to shy away from low-riding clips as I feel ease of access is of the essence. I honestly believe that the clip currently found on the Para/Millie is the best there is. No matter where you choose to carry the folder (IWB, clipped inside RFP, upside down on the shoulder strap of your backpack) the knife can be deployed in an instant. Also, the Para is one of the most spyder-droppable (if this is a real word) folders in Spydercos lineup.
All in all, the digicam Para has become my go to folder.
PS: I still anxiously await weekends so I can clip one of my Millies IWB though.
