- Joined
- Apr 9, 2011
- Messages
- 156
[video=youtube;4jXfNjU3SzY]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4jXfNjU3SzY&feature=player_embedded[/video]
The Spyderco Zulu was designed by Jens Ansø. This is the second Ansø Spyderco collaboration, the first being the Rock Lobster. The Zulu is slightly smaller than the designers usual folders and sits at a total length of 6 7/8th inches (17.46cm). The knife has several striking and unique design elements that contrast most other Spyderco knives and that are uniquely Ansø.
The handle has heavily machined scales with deep alternating cuts that have a chiseled, topographic appearance. The result is a very grippy purchase that pretty much negates the need for jimping on the rest of the knife. Adding to the grip, a fairly tight radius toward the butt of the handle keeps it from sliding around.
The clip is right hand only, tip up, tip down and hourglass shaped. Although shipped in the tip up position, the tip down is much nicer as the angle of the clip in this position does not compete with the curve of the handle visually and rides lower. The clip rests on a flat that is the out-most surface of the G10 slab. The finish of this is glossy and in my opinion stands out a bit. It would be a bit nicer if it was sanded matte to match the rest of the handle. Perhaps it was left this way intentionally to help prevent pocket wear, which it will.
The S30V blade on the Zulu is also unique to the tastes of the designer. The scimitar shaped hollow ground blade has curves reminiscent of Ansøs custom folders such as the Amok, Rasta and most similarly the Bastid. The hollow grind has a large radius making it a great slicer. This is backed up by a steep belly. The spine of the blade has a wavy swedge that terminates at a sharp angle above the thumb-hole. The finished product looks animated and has a proud stance. Although the shape has been criticized, it should be obvious that the lines of the blade combined with the hollow grind and contoured swedge are beautifully executed and purposeful in design.
Over all the Zulu has an excellent fit and finish. The form of the knife is ambitious and in my opinion quite successful, embodying the Ansø signature in an affordable production folder. Spydercos collaboration with the designer has brought more value to the Spyderco brand with its craftsmanship and diversity, greatly reflecting this manufacturers love for all things sharp.
Thanks for reading!! ~EO
The Spyderco Zulu was designed by Jens Ansø. This is the second Ansø Spyderco collaboration, the first being the Rock Lobster. The Zulu is slightly smaller than the designers usual folders and sits at a total length of 6 7/8th inches (17.46cm). The knife has several striking and unique design elements that contrast most other Spyderco knives and that are uniquely Ansø.
The handle has heavily machined scales with deep alternating cuts that have a chiseled, topographic appearance. The result is a very grippy purchase that pretty much negates the need for jimping on the rest of the knife. Adding to the grip, a fairly tight radius toward the butt of the handle keeps it from sliding around.
The clip is right hand only, tip up, tip down and hourglass shaped. Although shipped in the tip up position, the tip down is much nicer as the angle of the clip in this position does not compete with the curve of the handle visually and rides lower. The clip rests on a flat that is the out-most surface of the G10 slab. The finish of this is glossy and in my opinion stands out a bit. It would be a bit nicer if it was sanded matte to match the rest of the handle. Perhaps it was left this way intentionally to help prevent pocket wear, which it will.
The S30V blade on the Zulu is also unique to the tastes of the designer. The scimitar shaped hollow ground blade has curves reminiscent of Ansøs custom folders such as the Amok, Rasta and most similarly the Bastid. The hollow grind has a large radius making it a great slicer. This is backed up by a steep belly. The spine of the blade has a wavy swedge that terminates at a sharp angle above the thumb-hole. The finished product looks animated and has a proud stance. Although the shape has been criticized, it should be obvious that the lines of the blade combined with the hollow grind and contoured swedge are beautifully executed and purposeful in design.
Over all the Zulu has an excellent fit and finish. The form of the knife is ambitious and in my opinion quite successful, embodying the Ansø signature in an affordable production folder. Spydercos collaboration with the designer has brought more value to the Spyderco brand with its craftsmanship and diversity, greatly reflecting this manufacturers love for all things sharp.
Thanks for reading!! ~EO
