Para Military Vs. Caly3

Joined
Jul 16, 2007
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im looking for a new EDC and I was looking first at the PM but than the caly three caught my eye and I am once again torn. I was planning on sending the PM to STR and getting a low ride clip so the caly3 def. has an advantage there. The size of each seems pretty comparable unless someone has a picture of each of them on edge to see whichever is thinner. What would you guys suggest .....
 
I think there are two things it will come down to for most people, whether you like the compression lock or not, and which knife has better ergonomics for you. I like the handle shape of the Para better, but it doesn't fit my hand well like it's larger brother. The Caly 3 felt good in my hands though. I'd taka the Para over the Caly myself though if the ergos fit my hand better, I think it's a better knife.
 
I consider the Caly 3 to be more of a gentleman's folder, good for when you want a smaller lighter knife. The Para's really a full sized folder, though not huge, it's quite a bit bigger than the Caly 3. Especially the grip.
I'd buy both. One for summer, one for winter.
 
wow two of favorite spyderco's along with the calypso jr. not an easy choice.I prefer the calypso jr for general use I carry it in my shirt pocket and it gets used a lot.these three knives are the knives that I quickly bought another of as soon as the oppurtinity presented itself.as I couldn't see myself without either.
when I need a knife for heavier duty I use the para-military.I actually like the compresssion lock it just works great for me.I carry the para in a horizontal belt sheath very handy for me.
I actuall haven't used the G10 caly 3 yet but will soon. it feels great in hand.
they are all superb slicers.
 
man now I see the CF ZDP caly3 and my plans for getting a sharpmaker along with my knife is going out the window in favor for some CF. I think I will go with the caly, I have plenty of full size folders if I need to take more knife with me. Or I can always carry both if I need it :)
 
well the decision has been made a new caly 3 will be waiting for me when I get home in two weeks. Damn this africa.
 
Yes Sir. Another +1 for the Caly 3.Has been everydaycarry for 12 months or more. It did prompt me to order the Para and I like it, but has not been carried one day.

Congratulations o your new purchase !
 
You'll be happy. The Caly 3 is a great knife. The Para should be next on your list...it's a great one too.

Enjoy the Caly3.
:)
 
I think next on my list will be a larger folder when I need a bit more blade. I think I might go with a manix or para for that.
 
mmm...i'm in the same boat an its driving me insane. I've been trying to find a dealer in the area so i can hold both, but the only one i've found doesnt have either. I'm leaning toward the Caly because it seems like a nicer edc.

Which blade is thinner? and which carries better? thanks guys
 
I like the Para, but don't carry it much. The Caly 3 is the best EDC that Spyderco has ever produced in my opinion, for what it's worth.
 
mmm...i'm in the same boat an its driving me insane. I've been trying to find a dealer in the area so i can hold both, but the only one i've found doesnt have either. I'm leaning toward the Caly because it seems like a nicer edc.

Which blade is thinner? and which carries better? thanks guys

The Caly 3 has a thinner blade and a smaller handle. Which one is nicer and carries better is going to be up to you. The Caly 3 is going to seem smaller. If that helps make it a better EDC for you, then the Caly 3 is probably your best bet. It really depends on your EDC needs. If they are light-medium duty cutting (office & home chores), the Caly 3 is up for that and more. If your EDC chores include some heavy duty cutting or a lot of outside field work, you may prefer the Para both for it's larger size and sturdier lock, and for it's ease of handling for long periods of time.

I have both and they are my two favorite factory-model (non-modified) Spydercos, even though I carry a D4 for warehouse work.
 
I just ordered the Caly 3 last night. got it for 95$, seemed like a good deal to me, im really excited!
 
Domanfp

Ok your way up North from me. If you were closer to the South I would give you the contact number of some Spyderco delears that might have helped you out a bid faster.

All the best and enjoy your new knife!
 
Hey Marthinus, where are you getting your stuff? I get all my Spydercos through Sharp Edge and Eastgate Locksmiths. You know of any other decent dealers in Jhb?
 
Here's a size comparison of the Para and Caly3. The para is quite a bit bigger.
A BM Minigrip and Emerson7 also present for scale.

DSC00391.jpg
 
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