I also recently picked up a Native III and have been meaning to post some comments. I would have to agree about the tightness and the grind lines, although a little TLC has loosened/smoothed up the action considerably.
A couple of random observations for those who may be considering one:
- The "jimping" or whatever you call it on the thumb rest portion of the blade actually continues onto the FRN handle, with two little serration points cast into the FRN. I am considering sanding mine off for aesthetics when the knife is closed, when it's open you don't notice them as much. I can't see where I would miss them.
- The pommel end of the FRN handle is also "jimped," although much more finely with lines running across the back parralel with the pivot axis. I like the lines but they're hard to see in the pictures floating around.
- This knife is much shorter than the Delica in practice because you "choke up" up on the handle. The result is a really good hand-filling hold with a short, controllable blade. For you self-defense types, the pommel sticks out the bottom of my saber grip about 1/2" and would make for a pretty nice thunker if you were so inclined.
- It came so sharp that I keep checking my hands for blood, assuming I won't feel it at first if I get bit!
Overall I am very happy. As fudo points out, there are nicer Spydercos, but this one is pretty darn nice for the price. Makes my Delica feel toy-like by comparison, and the Delica is pretty nice in its own right.
