UKPK thoughts. PIC HEAVY

[Liquid Cobra]

I don't think its a secret around here that I'm a fan of the UKPK. I owned one of the original FRN models with the weak spring and thought it was a nice design but the tension that kept it open was just too weak. I ended up selling it with the intention of getting the updated model in FFG and the stronger spring. It took me a while but I finally got my hands on the new one and it changed everything for me.

That single purchase turned my Spyderco collection upside down as I needed to sell a bunch of models that weren't seeing pocket time. I started searching for the other versions I needed of the UKPK that I thought would be up my alley. Basically the leaf shape versions of the G10, CF and Titanium models. For whatever reason the drop point doesn't do it for me so I've stuck to the leaf shape. All that's left for my collection is the orange G10 model, and I think I'm done. I am expecting the crown jewel to arrive next week which is of course..the PITS folder. I took some comparison photos to give you guys an idea of the slight variations between the models. I've also include the two Urban models since they're part of the same family and a new FRN model is on its way.

I'm not one for words, so I've tried to let my photos do the talking. Thanks for looking.

Left to right:

Urban Foliage Green G10, Urban Orange G10, FRN Black (updated), FRN Grey (old), Foliage Green G10, Black G10, Carbon Fiber, Titanium

The order in this photo got mixed up a bit.

There is slight variations in the blade thickness as you can see below.

The difference between the old G-10 and updated FRN blade thickness is pretty substantial. The thin blade stock makes for a mean slicer. Sal had mentioned a FRN S110V sprint as an idea and I for one would be very excited to see that come to fruition. I'd love to see how S110V would function in such a thin blade.

The jimping seems to vary from model to model, I like it either way.

Comparison shot of the old grind and finish versus the updated FRN model.

The UKPK really fits my hand well. It's actually a better fit than the Caly 3.5 which surprised me since my hands are large. It's possibe its just in my head

 

[Liquid Cobra]

Urbans:

I did a ridiculous sharpening on my wharncliffe Urban (regret) and I ended up losing the tip. I grinded down the spine to regain the tip, and I'm happy with how it turned out. The Urban is a nice knife but a bit small for me so it doesn't see as much pocket time as the rest. The fit and finish on the Seki made Urbans is outstanding and hold their own agains their Golden UKPK cousins.

Interesting pivot:

Orange (not color corrected)

Foliage Green

 

[Liquid Cobra]

I've already said a lot about this version, and it's pretty perfect for my uses. Although it costs less than most other models, it functions a lot better due to the thin grind and stronger spring.

I bought this version simply because I figured I needed an over version in my collection and I'm a sucker for grey knives. The weak "lock" automatically makes this my go to letter opener and that's about it.

The Black G10 model feels like an upgrade over the FRN models in a few ways. The G10 feels like quality in your hand and has some more heft which is nice. The steel jumps from BD1 to S30V as well. Then there is the "lock" which is considerably stiffer than the Grey model above. I love this knife.

Same as above, but perhaps nicer fit and finish.

The Carbon Fiber version has the weakest "lock" out of the higher end models. The carbon Fiber is smooth and looks very nice. the design of the handle locks the knife in your hand nicely, but if not held in a standard grip it can be kind of slippery. S30V steel again.

 

[Liquid Cobra]

All hail the king! I don't yet own the PITS folder and until then I consider the titanium UKPK the king of the Slipits This knife reeks of quality. The added weight makes it feel great in the hand, the lock up is stronger than any other model and the fit and finish is perfect. The stonewash seems to add a bit of texture which equates to slightly more grip as well.

So that's it, I hope you enjoyed this overview of the UKPK/Urban.

Thanks!

 

[kubelik]

that's a great collection you've got there. nice photography; you're making me itch for a foliage green g10 UKPK...

 

[ChrisB507]

Awesome pictures and collection! Love it.

I have two UKPKs in blue and gray FRN and the CTS-BD1 steel. I've resisted the ti version (so far) because I like how light and usable they are in FRN. I also like the one-handed close...they are my lounge-around and in-the-house knives. They are great knives!

And I swear I saw somewhere a black G-10 version of the Urban was coming out this year...

 

[powernoodle]

UKPK. This one was purchased used and full of mung, but cleaned up nicely.

Bonus slipit: Spyderco Squeak.

 

[SpeedHoles]

Cool thread and fun to look at with all of the photos.

I have to admit I don't yet own any UKPK's, but I do love my Calys, so threads like this always push me one step closer to giving one a shot!
If someone were to buy only 1 UKPK, which would you recommend? Probably excluding ti though, for my budget sake.

 

[Liquid Cobra]

I would definitely say the current FRN ffg model with the updated spring.

Thanks for all the kind words folks. Powernoodle, I actually need to pick up an orange FRN version as well someday. Nice pics! I had a squeak but messed up the blade, I'll need a replacement someday. Probably the titanium Sprint coming down the line.

ChrisB507, there is a new Urban coming but it is FRN, not G10.

 

[ChrisB507]

ChrisB507, there is a new Urban coming but it is FRN, not G10.

Thanks! That will be another great little all-around knife.

 

[cchu518]

Great knife I gifted my last one one a bf GAW, can't wait for the sprint run, I found this thread after typing on a search for ukpk's. I had the original foliage green one and didnt like it as much as the leaf in bd1 too! Its a fan favorite for general edc.

 

[philllll]

Great pics, Dude! I love the UKPK pattern along with the very similar Caly. Here is my collection, since this photo I've sold one of the ti UKPKs and added a foliage green Urban.

 

[bigelox]

Wow, nice collection! I wish Spyderco would offer the Slipits in a ton of different colors of FRN or G10.

 

[jazzz]

I love them. This and the drop point both share equal time in my pocket...







- best wishes, Jazzz.

 

[Liquid Cobra]

Thanks for sharing guys. Great photos!

 

[cchu518]

Here was my last one. I did a GAW and sent it to a bf member. Have to get another one someday. I keep trying new knives and end up buying back certain models lime the UKPK.

 

[Liquid Cobra]

I wish they would do some more colours again. But use the colours that are used on the Delica/endura.

 

[rexromic]

Just bought titanium UKPK,can't wait till I get my hands on it .

 

[Lycosa]

Nice!
You need a Maroon.
I'd love to see a Large Urban.
rolf

 

[gtopper]

Thanks great thread I am in the market for a frn model never tryed one yet but I think not having to mess with a lock may be fantastic and gotta love the light weight.