What to Buy?

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steelscout30

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Aug 1, 2006
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I've been considering several smaller Spyderco folders for a while now. Until late, my collection consists of larger models...several Military models, Police, Chinooks, etc...Now I'm looking at something smaller.

I'm between the Cricket, the Spin, the Kiwi, perhaps a Micro-Dyad, or the Lava, with particular emphasis on that latest.

What would be the best all-around, small-companion carry knife?

Thanks for the help.

God bless you, America, and our men and women overseas.

KATN,

Wade
619G6
 
Haven't tried a Kiwi or Cricket. The Spin is wonderful, I'd recommend it. Had a Micro-Dyad but didn't like not having a clip, didn't use the serrated blade and it was much thicker in a change pocket than the Spin. I've held a Lava multiple times and it doesn't fit my hand right, but I like everything else about it. My favorite smaller knife is the UKPK. Better grip than the Spin etc. and not as large as something like the Endura.
 
I used to have Cricket, used it for couple days and wasn't impressed. I have Micro-Dyad, it is nice in display, but not very comfortable in my hand.
Out of LBK my favorite today is Kopa with Etched Dragonfly runner-up, may be take a look at them. About 2.5" FFG leaf shape Vg10 blade, handle provide a good grip, unless you want to go little bigger to 3" blade, than Caly3 is the winner (at least in my heart)
 
Either the Cricket or the Lava. They don't feel like small knives when being used. Really, the Cricket has to be used to really appreciate it. IMO

The Kiwi and Micro-Dyad are great, but they are pricey... Especially for your first small knife. Either would be great for your second small knife though. ;) (After you decide you like smaller knives)
 
steelscout30 said:
What would be the best all-around, small-companion carry knife?
Click to expand...

I'm a fan of the Dragonfly. I normally carry a ZDP Delica at work but the Dragonfly always rides in my pack as a backup. I forgot the Delica one day and pulled the Dragonfly out of my pack and used that. I was surprised at how well it carried and how well it cut (heavy cardboard boxes and fiberglass strapping). Very comfortable in the hand.

The lava looks good but the blade is very curved. I find a straighter edge cuts the sort of material I need to cut better than a curved blade. I haven't held a Lave, and it may be a very comfortable knife to hold, but the blade looks a little too curved for me.
 
I would also recommend the Cricket as the first choice. Thin, light, rides low in the pocket (unlike the D-fly), and the blade shape is surprisingly useful for light chores. The Lava and Kiwi would be a tossup for second. Both are outstanding, but very different, really depends what you'll be using it for. I'm not too fond of the Spin, I can't get a comfortable grip on it without using a lanyard, and I can't comment of the micro-dyad as I don't have one.
 
I know you are probably looking for a small knife, and not medium/small, but if you don't have the Caly 3 then you really should get one of those for a secondary EDC. I carry the Military and Caly 3, great combo.
The Cricket is one step smaller than the Caly, and can fit in places you wouldn't expect to put a knife, like your wallet (the Spin could probably do the same).
If you're intent on the smaller knives right now, remember to look at the Caly later.

I have a etched Cricket for ultra sheeple friendly purposes (girls call it "cute").
 
I have a Caly3, plain-edged, got it for Christmas the year before last. :D

It looks like I'm going to be buying a Cricket sometime soon...

Thanks for the help, gentlemen.

God bless you, America, and our men and women overseas.

KATN,

Wade
 
As a small knife the Lava feels great. I just got a pearl Kiwi a couple days ago and it has sweet ergos too. Looks like it will be a great dress carry.
 
The new Dragon Fly in VG-10 is awesome. Stainless version in really nice. Etched is great also.
 
My only experience with the small ones you listed is with the Kiwi...I have one in red bone and really like it...it's totally different than anything else. It was smaller than I expected, however, though that's not a problem. :D

Perhaps they're larger than what you're looking for, but if you haven't already done so I'd take a serious look at the Delicas...definitely one of my favorites! :thumbup:

Good luck with your shopping!

Ray :)
 
My job will only allow me to carry small knives at work and I find my Kiwi(1), Dragonfly(2), and the Cricket keep ending up in my EDC. All cut much larger than they look and take up almost no room in my pocket. Just can't seem to be able to decide between a hook, leaf, or flat edged blade. All perform much better than I thought they would just by looking.
 
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