Need to replace Native...which one and where to buy?

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robert33usa

Joined
Mar 11, 2002
Messages
29
Hello all,

After many years of happy use, I have lost my spyderco Native that I bought from walmart. Much to my dismay, walmart no longer carrys them. To add to my confusion, I see there are different types of natives in different steels and at much higher prices. So the question is: Which native should I buy and where do I buy it from. I'm sure there are many good online retailers, just point me in the right direction. Also, whats up with the Native III? If someone could explain to me all the different types of natives that could be a big help.

Thanks in advance for your assistance.
 
Not really positive of what the model differences are beyond that of the country in which they are manufactured; VG10 is Japan and S30V is USA.

And as far as retailers, you can't go wrong with the typical sites thrown around on BF. knifeworks.com, newgraham.com, knifecenter.com, etc.
 
Its really about steel and ergonomic difference - Native Lightweight v. Native III - or total change in materials and pricepoint for the Native IV.
 
I'd go for the native in s30v, just because its cheaper with FRN handles and you were happy with that one before. But if i wanted something cool, the native 4 with CF and vg-10 would be sweet for around $230
 
Native that walmart carried is the original, made in USA, S30V steel, pinned construction, BB clip, there are variations of it, SE, PE, Black blade.

Native III is the Japanese made one, more 3d handle, wire clip, vg10 steel

Native 4: the newest one, FFG vg10, CF handle, wire clip.

I'd go for the classic s30v original, still available online all over.
 
robert33usa said:
Hello all,

After many years of happy use, I have lost my spyderco Native that I bought from walmart. Much to my dismay, walmart no longer carrys them. To add to my confusion, I see there are different types of natives in different steels and at much higher prices. So the question is: Which native should I buy and where do I buy it from. I'm sure there are many good online retailers, just point me in the right direction. Also, whats up with the Native III? If someone could explain to me all the different types of natives that could be a big help.

Thanks in advance for your assistance.
Click to expand...

ousanas said:
Native that walmart carried is the original, made in USA, S30V steel, pinned construction, BB clip, there are variations of it, SE, PE, Black blade.

Native III is the Japanese made one, more 3d handle, wire clip, vg10 steel

Native 4: the newest one, FFG vg10, CF handle, wire clip.

I'd go for the classic s30v original, still available online all over.
Click to expand...

The III

  • has a more 3-dimensional grip. The grip fills the hand more.
  • Has a different blade profile
  • Has a blade of VG10. Likely will take a finer edge than S30V unless you use diamond honing paste. Likely won't hold its fine edge quite as well as S30V
  • Has a wire clip, which I actually find I prefer to a solid clip. Very secure. I find it doesn't catch on things.
  • Made in Japan.
The Native

  • has a flatter grip. Less noticeable in the pocket
  • has the blade profile with which you are familiar
  • has S30V steel
  • about the same price as the III
  • Made in Colorado.
The IV

  • VG10 alloy blade
  • Full Flat Grind.
  • Carbon Fiber Handle.
  • Pricier than the others (because of the carbon Fiber Handle.
  • Made in Japan
Most folks find that the ergos of the III and the Native are different. Some prefer one. Others prefer the other. And vice versa. If you liked the Native, get another. If you are curious and want to try something else, get a III or a IV.
 
Don't fret about decisions. Just pick up a Native 4. The flat grind will out-way everything, even the cost! Trust me! :D Pick it up online.
 
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