NEWBIE to SPYDERCO... Where to Begin & Why?

BenchMEDAL said:
Thanks Kels73. It seems that the majority of locks on Spyderco knives are compression as in the PM2, and widely favored among Spyderco enthusiasts.
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That raises a good trivia question. I don't know the answer, but I'm guessing there are more backlocks or liner lock models than compression. They have released quite a few compression lock models in the past couple years though.
 
BenchMEDAL said:
Thanks Kels73. It seems that the majority of locks on Spyderco knives are compression as in the PM2, and widely favored among Spyderco enthusiasts. Any thoughts on the different locking mechanisms between the PM2 and the Manix 2?
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Both have sufficiently strong locks that I feel are easy to operate.

I prefer the action of the Manix 2 with its caged ball bearing lock (CBBL). The blade flicks open smoothly as the tang rides the ball bearing. Then once you're done cutting, shutting it one-handed is easy and consistent as the ball bearing, now functioning as the detent, sucks the blade into the closed position. The CBBL's strong spring makes it more difficult to manipulate than a Benchmade Axis lock, but I've never had a problem with it and can easily operate it with one hand.

As for the PM2, I prefer the mechanical simplicity of the compression lock. When I deployed to Afghanistan, I chose it over my Manix 2, and this was why. If for some reason I needed to disassemble my knife, I didn't want to run the risk of losing the ball bearing or spring. Of course I didn't have to disassemble my knife, but peace-of-mind goes a long way when deciding what to pack.

All of this is minor and preferential. Like I said, both are great knives, and I really like both locking mechanisms. It's hard to go wrong with either. Right now, the PM2 and the Manix 2 have been supplanted by a new favorite...my Lil' Temperance 3.

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BenchMEDAL said:
Thanks Kels73. This is all good information for a Spydeco Newbie. That Lil Temperance 3 looks like a nice slicer!
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The blade of the Lil' Temperance 3 is ground from .157" stock, but it's tall and has a reasonably thin edge, so it slices surprisingly well. It's a stout little knife. I didn't realize how wide it is until I saw it in person. It fits beautifully in my XL hand. It truly is a "little big knife."
 
horseavoider said:
+1 on the spydiechef. the only knife so good I bought it twice.
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If I had only one Spyderco, the SpydieChef would be it. I really like the Chaparral and the Sage 5 as well, and the PM2 is a fine choice, which you may be able to find secondhand in M390 with attractive red or blue scales. If you do, it probably will be around the price of the SpydieChef.

I agree with the endorsements of the PM2, but the SpydieChef is much easier to carry, has a longer cutting edge in a unique combination of steel and blade shape, is virtually rustproof, has premium fit & finish, a very comfortable handle in blasted titanium that won’t tear your pockets, and an extremely smooth action. It’s also very thin behind the edge and is an unbeatable slicer for a folding knife of its size. Given your interest in steels, I’d recommend you look into the SpydieChef’s LC200N.
 
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So, I decided on, bought and now have the KnifeCenter PM2 in CRUWEAR with smooth scales.

I completely understand what Spyderco fans like about modern Spyderco knives. I’ve only opened and closed it, not cut anything. It opens and closes much easier than my early 1990s Police Model. I personally like the “smooth” G10 on this version and not sure I’d like the standard G10 found on the majority of PM2 handles. How does Peel Ply or regular Carbon Fiber compare?

Spyderco seems to use so many different steel variations, and PM2 $ prices differ greatly merely because of the steel. (I just saw a member list a MAXAMET PM2 for $250.) That said, I wondered if someone could provide a breakdown of steels used on PM2’s and perhaps an order of Best to Worst?

Once again I appreciate the input.
 
BenchMEDAL said:
So, I decided on, bought and now have the KnifeCenter PM2 in CRUWEAR with smooth scales.

I completely understand what Spyderco fans like about modern Spyderco knives. I’ve only opened and closed it, not cut anything. It opens and closes much easier than my early 1990s Police Model. I personally like the “smooth” G10 on this version and not sure I’d like the standard G10 found on the majority of PM2 handles. How does Peel Ply or regular Carbon Fiber compare?

Spyderco seems to use so many different steel variations, and PM2 $ prices differ greatly merely because of the steel. (I just saw a member list a MAXAMET PM2 for $250.) That said, I wondered if someone could provide a breakdown of steels used on PM2’s and perhaps an order of Best to Worst?

Once again I appreciate the input.
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Congrats on your new knife!!

A best to worst list will be greatly varied. It’s all about what you need/want out of a knife. How it will be used. Where it will be used. Your personal sharpening skills and equipment. It all comes into play.

Ultimately it’s up to you to decide what is best for you.

But my personal opinion is that you are off to a great start with cruwear. It seems to be a jack of all trades. But master of none. In other words, it’s a well balanced steel.
 
In terms of the steel, it really is a matter of personal preference. I have 5x PM2s, and although it is my favorite model, I am definitely not looking to own more. If I end up with a new one, one of these goes - already got rid of three. Although I use all of them, honestly, I would be happy with just my first three.

For me, this is my order of preference,

1) M390 - at this point, my oldest PM2. Used more than any other knife I own. I am familiar with it, with the steel. I know what to expect from use and sharpening.
2) CRUWEAR - hasn't left my pocket since I got it. Wanted this steel for a long time, as I missed the first release. Looking forward to seeing how it compares to M390, granted it is not stainless.
3) M4 - I have this steel in other models, and like it alot. But, it sees less use due to #1 and #2.
4) 52100 - it is a fun steel. Easy to sharpen, fun to patina, durable steel, but again, not too much use anymore. I use my knives for food/snacks, and this one is way too non-stainless for that. Leaves a flavor on fruit and such.
5) MAXAMET - I have my reasons for it being in the last place.


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I Think the cruewear is a good price and you should not loose on resell should you not like it down the road.

I am digging mine
 
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