Help - Paramilitary 2 vs Para 3 without clip

E

eg01st

Joined
Jan 15, 2016
Messages
12
Hi!

First time I really got into knives was around 6 years ago. I bought several knives, increasing my budget - Schrade framelock, Cold Steel Code 4 Tanto, Spyderco Tenacious, Spyderco Delica 4 and then I was up to a choice - Manix 2 or PM2. I wanted one "high end" (for me) knife to the end the obsession. After watching every knife channel video on youtube about both, I went with Manix 2. I kind of wanted the PM2 more because of looks, but Manix seemed to excel in some areas - lock strength and durability. At least that's what I found out from my research. I gifted the Tenacious to my father, he carries it every day, and the blade has some chips and overall wear. I asked him recently about his opinion, and he said it's a perfect knife for him (carrying in pocket with clip), so Manix would be just as great.

Now for my question. I want to replace my Manix with one of the Paras. I don't like using the pocket clip. Never have. First of all, I don't like others noticing I have a knife. Second, when I put my hand into jean pocket, the knife gets in the way. I took off the clip of my Delica, and it disappears in my left pocket, I love it. Also, the Code 4 carries like it's not there, because the handle is very thin and slippy. But Manix is just so thick, heavy and wide because of that leaf shaped blade. I put my phone in the right pocket, so knife goes into left along with car keys. So, would PM2 be noticeable larger than Para 3 if carried like that? I know that Para 3 is the same length as Delica. But not sure how it "feels" in pocket, and is PM2 really that bigger.

I could just stick with my Manix, but I can't help that itch for PM2/Para3 with compression lock. Or I could stick with Delica (ordered Flytanium brass scales for it, waiting to arrive), but I really can't stand backlocks, feels like operating mouse trap with a razor attached.

I like the Benchmade 940/945 too for how slick they are, but the price and some bad reputation about omega springs breaking keeps me away. And I know I would still want a Para :D

Thanks!
 
I carry a Para 3 occasionally with no clip and love it. It’s unobtrusive, lightweight, and you can still get your hand in your pocket(s) easily.
 
The PM2 is considerably larger in that it is longer. It is exactly the same dimensions from the thumb hole to the standoff, with a longer blade and a rather large butt (if you're into that sort of thing). I wouldn't carry the PM2 in pocket (sans clip) as it would be very noticeable and would likely wreak havoc with anything else in there, not to mention your hand.

However, it's one of those "opinion" things so since it's your opinion that matters, you'll have to make that call. I have both and carry the Para 3 far more than the PM2, and that's my opinion.:)

I should add that if you are even slightly inclined toward the PM2, you may regret going for the Para3. I don't have a Delica (not really a Spyderco fan) to compare, but it would be similar in size to the Para3, to give you an idea.
 
Yo Mama said:
I wouldn't carry a loose folding knife in my pocket without a clip. To many ways for this to go wrong, and end up with a large unexpected cut.
Click to expand...
I have never had a knife with compression lock, and this is something I haven't really thought about. Didn't have problems with Manix though.

When it comes down to safety, then I rather leave the clip on and go with PM2. I prefer the look of it against midget looking P3. One youtuber said that "PM2 is a big knife that carries like a small knife, and Para 3 is a small knife that carries like a big knife."
 
Get the Para 3.
It's smaller, and the pocket clip is held on by just one screw.
 
Have you looked at the Native? It has the same blade length as the Para 3, but carries much smaller due to there being no thumb ramp. It's also a back lock, so it has enough closing bias to stay shut while being thrown into a rock tumbler with your car keys.

Bob Denman said:
Get the Para 3.
It's smaller, and the pocket clip is held on by just one screw.
Click to expand...
Only the Para 3 lightweight. The standard Para 3 uses the same three-screw clip as the PM2.
 
I think a Para 3 lightweight would be perfect in your situation. Get the version in CPM-Spy27 if you can.
 
HP2114B said:
Have you looked at the Native?
Click to expand...
Nope, I don't want another back lock. Using it feels like I will cut my fingers any moment while closing one handed. I want to get a fidgety compression lock, and I know that whatever else I get, I will always want a Para :D. I like the bird scull blade shape more than leaf shape on Manix and others.
 
Definitely think you would be happier with the Para 3 if you are carrying in your pocket without a clip. I would most likely look at one of the Para 3 LWs
 
jhiggs1216 said:
Definitely think you would be happier with the Para 3 if you are carrying in your pocket without a clip. I would most likely look at one of the Para 3 LWs
Click to expand...
I developed a dislike for FRNs from my Delica - it feels cheap, rough (but that can be an advantage too) and even a bit too light. But choosing between 2 and 3 is hard :(
 
The size of both is quite similar. The Para 3 is a tad smaller in length but width and thickness are about the same. They both suffer from the Spydie "bump" where the Spydie hole is. If I were to carry either without the clip I would go with the Para 3.
 
eg01st said:
I developed a dislike for FRNs from my Delica - it feels cheap, rough (but that can be an advantage too) and even a bit too light. But choosing between 2 and 3 is hard :(
Click to expand...
I can understand that. I would definitely still go with the 3 if I was going to carry in my pocket without a clip, whether it is a LW or regular version. I just feel like the PM2 would be a little large for that type of carry. Of course that is just my opinion. Both are really good knifes though.
 
I think the Sage 5 (or chaparral) is a more utilitarian para 3, you can take a look at that; slicier blade, thinner (easier in the pocket without a clip) and compression lock.
 
Hard to say, nobody can tell but you, really. I carry PM2, 3 and Manix 2 without pocket clip, no issues. The pocket clip is most redundant on the PM3, due to size.

Don't sell the Manix 2 just yet. Buy either PM2 or PM3 (or both), and use it/them. See if you like how the compression lock feels in hard use, before selling the Manix, I suggest.

Roland.
 
Last edited:
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top