Son's 12th B-Day which Spyderco?

Delica is my primary EDC. Luv it.

The Delica or Salt I (essentially a rustproof Delica) would make an excellent gift for a 12yo upgrading from a SAK.
 
I would get something less expensive, like a Byrd model. Unless your kid is more responsible than most, he may wind up doing dumb stuff like trying to use the knife as a throwing knife. I destroyed too many knives as a 12 year old by throwing them into dirt or trees.
I'd recommend a locking blade, since it may be safer for the user, It is too easy to cut yourself when stabbing a folder into something, and it folds up on you.
Some safety instruction is a good idea.
I recall visiting an emergency room when I accidentally cut my finger using a hand saw. I was an adult at the time. There was a kid there who chopped off his thumb playing with an axe.
 
I started my son with Byrd knives before Spydercos because of the cost.I wanted him to appreciate the more expensive knives before I would spend my money on one for him. He used to go to gunshows with me and even helped me work my table a time or two so he picked up stuff that caught his eyes at the gunshows. He didn't get an Endura until he was 18 and working. He had to learn a lot before he really could appreciate the Spyderco. He also had tried out a Gerber and Kershaw assisted opener during that time. By the time he came back to the Spyderco Endura that he he finally selected he knew why the Spyderco knives are what they are and what features he wants in knives. He still has the Byrd but if he has the Gerber I haven't seen it. He's 28 now and uses it at work. I still sharpen for him though.
 
Last edited:
I'll buck the trend, and say at the price of a normal delica, thrown in another 15 bucks to get a Manix 2 lightweight.
 
Heck, I'm gonna say a bit of everything that's been recommended, get him a Byrd Cara Cara 2 or a Salt I!

Both (relatively) inexpensive, a breeze to sharpen, very forgiving steel, straightforward and basic blade shape and design, very lightweight, great ergos for every hand size out there, and simple yet sturdy construction + nice pocket clip.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top