native I vs. III, help!

A

anewguy

Joined
May 8, 2003
Messages
165
I really like the Native design. But when I went to make the purchase, I noticed that there are two different blade steels (and handle designs) from which to choose. I am interested in the primarily serrated blade choice and I was wondering what the difference is between the two steels offered—S30v and VG-10. I currently own an Al Mar SERE 2000 and I love the sharpness of the vg-10, but I am wondering how it compares to s30v. I am getting this knife for a friend who is in Belize to use/abuse as an EDC and therefore both the stain resistance and overall toughness are my main concerns (not too much the edge holding, because I am getting the serrations). If I am totally missing the boat on something, please let me know, or if you have better ideas for an overall knife. Thanks!
 
Get the Native III...I carry one of those (PE), along with my Al Mar SERE 2000 as my EDC, and both are "folding razors"!.
 
You might want to consider the new Salt I.
It uses H-1 blade steel and stainless screw/fittings for extreme corrosion resistance. Great for jungle/ocean environments.
 
Well, I would like to say you have already made a good decision by choosing a Spyderco knife. However, I think you have the harder question at hand now...which one? I am definitely a Spyderco fan myself and Natives are my favorite. Out of all the spyderco knives I have (which is well over 4 dozen of different types and variants) I like the Native III but in overall EDC I stick with my original native. Right now, I pocket the Tan FRN Native SE (Iraqi variant) because it is the same style handle as the original. I like the slim handle over the Native III's bigger handle though both have the pros and cons. I feel its a personal preference. As for the issue of steel type that you asked us. I have to say I've enjoyed all types and have not noticed a great difference in them. But I've not had to sharpen any of my blades yet because I switch through my EDCs so fast. Anyhow, I'm sure there are a few of my forumies here that will be able to answer this two-fold question better for you but maybe something I said can help you decide on which would be better for your friend. Good Luck!
 
The Native is my favorite FRN Spyderco along with the Dragonfly. Getting both will only set you back $100, so get both. If you can't get both, get the Native III first becaise it's cheaper and then get a S30V Native from the USA.:cool:
 
I'd go for the Native I simply because the S30V is an aggressive cutter. The VG-10 is sharp, and clean, but it doesn't go through tough stuff as well as the S30V version.
 
I perfer the clip,handle shape and steel of the s30v Native best.
 
Originally posted by anewguy
thanks for all your help! i think it will most likely be the native I.
Click to expand...
Just make sure that it's not one of those $20 pieces of junk!
 
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