Lightweights - Manix 2 (BD1) or Native 5 (S35)?

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Ecchi-Spud

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Apr 16, 2015
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Kinda got a dilemma here -- can't decide which I want for my next Spydie EDC. I've got it narrowed down to the two models mentioned in the title: the Manix 2 Lightweight (3-3/8 inch blade in CTS-BD1, ball bearing lock, FRCP handles -- 3 ounces LIGHT), and the Native 5 Lightweight (3 inch blade in S35VN, lockback, FRN handles -- about 2.5 ounces LIGHT). Any advice would help!
 
Both are very good knives and you will likely be happy with either (ideal would be to have both). The Manix 2 is bigger with a ball bearing lock vs the smaller Native 5 which is a lock back so they are quite different. I tend to prefer smaller knives and I have a Native 5 that I'm very happy with and it fits my large hands just fine.
 
For me it would boil down to lock type, although I think there is a little bit of difference in size too. I don't buy lockback knives except under rare circumstances so I would pick the Manix 2. (And I do own a Manix 2 lightweight.)
 
I love lock backs so I would probably go for the Native, but honestly I much prefer the Delica to either one. I will say that the fit and finish on my Native LW is excellent and it locks up as tight as a bank vault with no play in any direction. Best lock back I have ever owned. Golden has taken them to a whole new level of quality IMO.
 
My first two Spyderco were the two listed, both ended up being traded away, with that said I had a new arrival today, a Manix 2 LW in bd1
 
Ok OP. You said it will be your "next Spydie EDC". So, I think it would be helpful to know what you have or had, and what you liked or disliked about them.

Personally I had really high hopes of just loving the Manix LW. But I was spoiled on the bolt/bearing lock type by first having a BM Axis. After working a very smooth bolt lock, the Manix just seemed awkward and cumbersome. I still have it because it is still a good knife. I just have too many others that are much more refined for it to ever be a primary carry.

Now the Native looks intriguing, and I absolutely love S35VN. But I'm also drawn to the Sage. I don't have either just yet, but will say for EDC, I much prefer frame\liner locks to lockbacks.
 
I much prefer the Native 5 LW for EDC.

I would recommed the Forum 2015 Native in S90V if the 40%-off discount code 'Forum2015' still works. Else the basic in S35VN is just fine.

I like my Manix2 LW in S110V for utlility work, just not for EDC.
 
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TravisH said:
I much prefer the Native 5 LW for EDC.

I would recommed the Forum 2015 Native in S90V if the 40%-off discount code 'Forum2015' still works. Else the basic in S35VN is just fine.

I like my Manix2 LW in S110V for utlility work, just not for EDC.
Click to expand...

+1 - a no brainer
 
Both are excellent.

If you want a small light EDC, get the Native.
If you want a larger knife, and one that you can flick/play with, get the Manix.
 
I hadn't realized it was still available until yesterday, I almost picked one up, can't decide on the color though...
 
Can't go far wrong with either one. Personally, of the two I would grab the Native as I've seen it for $70 shipped and I really like S35VN. That said, if you want lightweight and don't mind serrations take a long, hard look at some of the SE Salt models.
 
My hands prefer the Native ergos, the CBB lock on both the Manix-es I've owned has been rather stiff/unrefined IMO, and I feel like edge S35VN provides in performance makes the Native the clear winner if you're only looking to purchase one. Additionally, I sold my BD1 Manix 2 and picked up a S110V version because, while BD1 can get insanely sharp without much effort, its lack of edge holding annoyed me...there are certainly worse blade steels though, no doubt. ;)
 
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