Spot revisited

Can a sheath be made with a removable/reversable clip? Then it could go on the belt, in a pocket, or inverted inside a jacket or vest. :D That would be awesome.
 
I don't see why not. CRKT did it with the sheath for their Ryan Plan B. Personally, I'd rather have a functional knife and an okay sheath than a great sheath and a sub-standard knife. Just my opinion, though.
 
Well, it's that time again. Just looking for an update on the progression of the new SPOT, so spill the beans Sal (please). I can't wait to get my hands on the proto! The suspense is killin' me!
 
Hi J.Davey.

shoot me your mailing address again (it's in a pile of papers silently screaming for me).

They came out of the tumbler Friday, will be sharpened, engraved Monday and shipped Tuesday.

sal
 
Same here! I don't come here too much anymore, but I check in time to time. Address sent and anticipation really starts...
 
I just placed an order for a Spyderedge Micarta SPOT (great sale price on Spyderco's website), should be here in the next day or two. :cool:

I can't legally conceal a fixed blade in AZ (not without getting a CCW permit for my non-existant firearm), but that's no problem for me. I'm getting the SPOT to hang off a backpack strap so I can have an easy-to-access knife while biking. I've always got a knife (or 3) on my person, but this is the first knife I've gotten for the express intention of self-defence. First fixed blade I'll own too (after thousands into folders, balis, and autos).

I'm not certain how I'll like the original SPOT, but I'll find out in a couple days.

That said, a wharncliffe SPOT sounds like a great ticket and I'll likely get one even if the original turns out to be perfect. Judging by pictures, I do think it'd be better if it was a bit stabbier, but it might be stabby enough. It seems like from the way it is gripped that it's somewhat of a pistol/sabre grip, and that the tip would naturally point straight out, and not downward (like on a Dodo, despite the similar blade design). Confirm/deny?
 
Planterz, the original SPOT (which is still one of the best knives I own...I actually own 2 of them; one to use and one to save) is more of a slasher than a stabber, although it does have the capabilities to do so. The new proto, from what I understand, has a blade shape similar to the Ronin and Yojimbo (I could be wrong on this, as I'm still awaiting the proto for testing). The blade is also a tad bit longer, so this will help with penetration also. The original SPOT is a great utility/back-up knife, and the best necker I've owned (and I've owned several small fixed blades).
 
OK. I got my SPOT a week ago, and I'm loving it. I can't stop playing with it. It fits my hand almost perfectly, which supprised the hell out of me. Looking at the plain picture of the knife, I couldn't imagine how anyone could think this knife was even remotely ergonomical. I came across a picture (in a LaGriffe thread I think) that showed the knife gripped, and it was like an epiphany. Instead of fingers being all jammed up higgaldy-piggaldy, it looked like it fit within a normal fist. Sure enough, it fits in my hand like it's not even there.

It was much smaller than I'd expected. I knew it was small, and even though there was the picture of it being held, I never appreciated how small it was. I don't consider that a bad thing though, the blade definitely seems like it'd get the job done. The handle wasn't too small though, it fits me perfectly.

I liked it so much that I ordered a plain edge and another SE one. I might order another PE one too, if I like it for utility use.

My thoughts on a new/improved model:

I'm definitely supportive of a larger wharncliffe blade. I'd also like to see a larger reverse-S curve, but it seems like the original shape wasn't overly well received, leading to its discontinuance. I think a hawkbill of some sort is a great blade shape for a knife of this size, since obviously penetration isn't much of an issue with so small a blade. I'm hardly an expert on this sort of thing though.

I like the neck sheath (actually, this is my first experience with Kydex), but for me, neck carry isn't my first option. It works fine strapped to my backpack with paracord, but of course, I'd like something more secure. I've been thinking about having a third-party sheath made. Some sort of multi-carry sheath would be the best IMO, although it seems like things of this nature, that do many things, excell at none. Maybe an option of different carry sheaths at purchase would work.

For me, the ergos are near perfect. However, my hands are skinny, and I can easilly see how larger hands might not like the small grip. OTOH, as it is, the SPOT offers a more secure grip than many other neck knives.

If I were to make my own knife, I'd do it this way:

2-2.25" Reverse S Curve blade. The last 1/2" of the tip would be hawkbilled, and it'd be a bit pointier at the tip to allow easier stabbing.

Same micarta handles as on the VG-10 model.

Same size handle and finger hole. However, I'd add a pinky finger hole. This would add more grip area, more secure retention, and possible "brass knuckle" impact use. I suppose this would also make it rather like a karambit (not like I'd know how to use a karambit), since it would very easy to hold in a reverse grip.

Of course, this might push the knife beyond the concept of a neck knife (small, light, and easily concealable), being probably 2 inches longer and an ounce heavier.

Whatever you decide Sal/Spyderco, you can count on me being a customer at least once if you put out this new SPOT.

BTW, I've got a Ronin on the way too. :cool:
 
I love the SPOt and i like the way you guys think :cool:

I have a black user around my neck as I'm typing away, plus a VG-10/micarta model stashed away. Just love these knives.

And if the new model has a Ronin/Yojimbo style blade, I'll sign up for one of those as well ;)
 
Well, I've had my concept SWICK for a couple of days now, and have given it a decent workout. The handle ergos are as comfortable as ever (they didn't really change much at all, thank God). I noticed that the S30V stock is thicker than the original SPOT (comparable in thickness to the blade of the Benchmade Skirmish), but still cuts like a laser (I know it's a cliche', but it's true). Still, the tip actually seems a bit thinner than the original SPOT (surely due to the full flat grind, longer blade length, and the fact that is isn't as 'snubby'). The SWICK (is this named so because it is slick and quick? Sal?) is an excellent slicer. The blade is between 2 and 1/4 inches and 2 and 1/2 inches (just an estimate). The edge really bites into whatever you're cutting. Unlike a bellied blade, the wharncliff just kept slicing deeper until the follow-through motion was complete. In essence, this should make an excellent defensive EDC. That's all I have for the time being. I still think this design should also be made available with a leaf blade and a hawkbill. It is still my opinion that the big selling point of this design is the ergonomic handle. I think a neck knife series based off this handle design with different blade styles would prove to be a lucrative decision. I would also love to be kept 'in the loop' on the sheath design. Regardless, it has been a pleasure to be involved in the creative process of this project. Thank you again, Sal (any job openings at Spyderco??? ;) )!
 
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No offense, but the finger hole on the new model should be LARGER if anything. A little disappointed by the pix. Expected a larger blade as well. :(
 
AmadeusM, this is a point that I brought up to Sal as soon as I received the SWICK. It fits me perfectly, because I have smallish paws, but I suggested that the hole be at least the same size as the original SPOT. Believe me, though; this knife is amazing (and the blade seems bigger than you think...it's perfect for this type of knife)!
 
Thanx Mr. Davey.

Give it hell. pics are ok. It's a topic for discussion. I need all of the input I can get. Especially about things like hole size. The stock is thicker. The blade steel is S30V.

"Swick"(TM) is a manufactured word combining swift & quick.

sal

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The entire "business chain" from; raw materials, manufacturing, marketing, selling, distributing, shipping, warrantees, insurance, credit, etc. ALL EXISTS to service the ELU (End Line User). Remove the ELU from the equation and the entire business chain falls like a house of cards. We all work for you!
 
Keep the original 24mm hole.
Bevel the edges.
Drop the level of the edge down flush (or at least closer) with the handle.
Will the concept model stay in a kydex sheath without the nubby thingy the original SPOT has?
Either S30V or VG-10 is just peachy with me. I wouldn't mind VG-10 at all if it would be cheaper, unless it's only slightly less, then S30V is choice. ;)
 
What do you think about a sheath that would work tied to an epaulet on a Campco photographers' vest? It would be in an accessable place and out of the way as well.(maybe)
 
While difficult to carry without a sheath, I still have found ways to test this piece. Penetration is excellent. No trouble on thick chuncks of beef. I need to come up with better tests!
 
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