Spydiechef. Para 3 LW gets honerable mention. FWIW, I probably “like” the Swayback the most. Like doesn’t necessairy equate to best.
Admittedly I haven't handled a large volume of new Spydercos, but I'm really happy with the Para3 LW. It is my go-to when I'm in a city/state with more restrictive knife laws.
I rarely come across a Spyderco that isnt a hit. In the last 5 years I really think the Sage 5 LW deserves some credit!
I've carried my original Pac Salt every day for maybe two years now. Considering trying the new version. Do you think it's that much of a step up? EDIT: To answer the OP, the Native Chief is pretty rad!
The Gayle Bradley 2 Based on my sample of owning over 100 Spyderco's, 20-40 Benchmade's, one of each of Chris Reeves knives, and others, I have continuously returned to the Gayle Bradley 2. To me it balances time (to maintain M4), cost, and quality. Here is why I think it is Spyderco's best knife by my definition. Cost: Less than $170 (when I picked one up on sale new a couple years ago) Size: Medium sized that can be used for small light duty tasks to heavy duty tasks, and do so all day long Time: M4 steel takes a wicked edge and keeps it for a long time so I can work longer, and sharpening doesn't take me long so down time is short and back to work Ergos: Does not force you into one preferred grip or slicing angle, but the handle thumb rest is very comfortable to use all-day. Handle: The carbon fiber looks great and cleans up easy. The offset scales don't feel the best after a long time cutting, but also due to the chamfered edges, I don't feel hot spots. Blade shape: versatile and can be used in a variety of angles Blade grind: The hollow grind allows it to slice easily without giving up strength due to the thick spine (reminds me of a Sebenza) The pivot/deployment is silky smooth, yet controlled (reminds me of a Sebenza) I could go on, but I won't bore you all more as I gush over my GB2. I'll end with saying that I have often considered it my "one knife for life" if I had to.
I'd actually like to hear more of your gushing over the GB2. Had one. Sold it (with instant regret). I need a bit of a nudge to pull the trigger again...
I think the GB2 is an interesting design, and I have a GB1 in my garage as a work knife. My typical EDC is either a PM2 or a Manix 2. I like both but I like the design of the PM2 best. There are some bits about the GB1 that I don't like, and in common with a lot of people one of the things I don't like is the limited access to the lock bar. If I had the ability to custom design any model for Spyderco I would either make slight changes to the GB2 or I would morph the PM2 blade shape to look a little more like the GB2.
Heavens to Betsy man, the GB2 is not only a phenomenal folder, but at today’s prices it’s a good value. Now, scidattle on over to your favorite BF supporting retailer and git one. Consider yourself nudged.