Help me choose my first spydey.

H

Houlahound

Joined
Aug 2, 2017
Messages
3,121
I have narrowed it down to these:

Native, chaparral, Mannix, Endura.

Purpose is EDC, nothing heavy.

I realise the Endura is longer but it looks like it would be small in the pocket.

Clearly not seeking a big knife.if I missed something in this theme add a comment.

Also not interested in a delica.
 
My recommendation would be the manix. It's got a great blade shape and locking mechanism and it's made in the states. I also wouldn't go for the lightweight version because you can't take it apart. Alternatively, check out the para 3. Good luck with your decision!
 
I would say get a pm2 but out of your list I pick the endura, which was my first spyderco. The frn carries really light and isn't a burden in the pocket at all. I'm sure you'll enjoy whichever you decide to go with.
 
Houlahound said:
If I got this right it is outside my preferred size range, ie: too big. Hence not listed.
Click to expand...
If the PM3 is too big for you, the Manix and Endura will feel massive.

How about you share some of the reasons that led you to suggest the 4 models you did?
Also, I've found that the experience with an FRN Native is significantly different from a G10 Native. Same with the Manix vs. the Manix Lightweight. I like the Para 3 Lightweight but actually dislike the standard Para 3. There are a lot of flavors of the knives you've mentioned with significant differences within the same series.

What are you personally looking for because a lightweight Chaparral and a G10 Manix XL are very far apart in terms of size and weight.
 
My favorite is the Native 5, whether in G10 or lightweight configuration. It has enough cutting edge for my needs and it doesn't take up much pocket space.

If you're considering additional choices, the Sage 5 lightweight is between the Native 5 and Manix 2 in size.
 
I like Spyderco’s FRN, but if I were picking something off the OPs list for general EDC, I would go with the new Chaparral Sun & Moon. Something unique and kinda special is always nice in the pocket.
 
I'm a big Endura fan. Had many over the years. While it is a big knife it is slim and thin in the pocket. I see the Native on your list, similar in blade length but more in the style of the Endura, I think you should also consider the Delica.

lOsMiuyh.jpg

f6TUFPnh.jpg

N7x3EiZh.jpg
 
Houlahound said:
If I got this right it is outside my preferred size range, ie: too big. Hence not listed.
Click to expand...
The PM2 is shorter than the Endura and less wide than the Manix2. All three are favorites of mine. But I hesitate to recommend the PM2 because after you get one of these, the chances are very good later Spyderco purchases won t seem so good. Why get the best first. Second best is the Manix2.
 
My vote is the Pacific Salt. It’s the same size as the Endura, but it’s lighter weight due to being linerless. Also, H1 steel cannot rust, so maintenance is a breeze. I’ve carried my serrated variant for more than 2 years straight, and I think everyone should try one. The plain edge can get dull fairly easily however, but it’s very easy to sharpen.
 
I think I would go for the Native
I really like this playeform even if it Mau seems a little bit bulky or angular but it makes a great EDC

if you want something than will be more an urban EDC than a real all around knife, the chaparral may be nice

at least it will be my first picks

that being said, my first Spyderco was a PM2 and I am still a fan of the PM2/para3 platform
 
I have the Manix, Endura and PM series, and I too would recommend the PM2/PM3 for EDC purpose. PM2 has the perfect balance right at the index finger, making it feel light in hand. PM3 size is perfect for EDC size. I don't have the PM3 lightweight, but I would imagine it does have even better balance than the standard PM3.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top