Which Spyderco for a new fan?

OP, just be aware that the Gayle Bradley is a beast of a knife at over 5 ounces and, while its form factor is not excessive, it is a noticeable presence in the pocket for sure.

Not to dissuade -- I adore my GB and it is my go-to for situations where I'll definitely need a knife -- but just keep this in mind. Yours and others mileage may vary, but it's not really something that I feel appropriate for just everyday utility carry. Unless, of course, your everyday needs require a good bit of knife work.

On the flip-side, the GB is a hard users dream... excellent ergonomics, both gloved or not. Especially I love that instead of there being a finger choil on the blade, Mr. Bradley opted for a finger groove on the handle at the very heel of the blade. Excellent control and the ability to choke up nearly as close but without the loss of cutting edge or possibility of snagging the media on the choil instead of the edge. And, of course, M4 is a perfect steel and despite being non-stainless requires very minimal upkeep.
 
I may be off-base here but:

For abuse: I'd suggest just about any Tri-ad lockback from Cold Steel, for just about everything else:
see if you can find a G-10 Delica, Endura, or any of the Manix 2 series. A good lightweight alternative is a basic VG-10 Caly 3.5. The FRN versions of the Delica and Endura are good choices too, though the handle material is not as tough as G-10 (but structural integrity overall is essentially the same).
The compression lock models (Paramilitary 2, Superleaf, Superhawk) deliver amazing lock strength in a very lightweight package, but generally their blade-to-handle ratio isn't that great.

I'm a little leary of the value series Spyderco's - their liner-lock is just not as good as the ones made in Japan or USA in my experience.
 
The lightweight Manix 2 (2.6 oz. per my scale) is a very cool knife. Light, sizable blade, great slicer, well made, great lock, good clip (I clip mine to jeans and slacks alike - the lightweight works in dress pants quite nicely) and well priced at $75 - $80. Maybe even a better price if you're lucky.
 
Mutt said:
Native 5 with g10 handles. Big enough to do a lot more real work than any dragonfly(I own the g10 version of the df so don't waste your time telling me how great it is, I know first hand and my big hands want a bigger knife) and small enough so no one freaks out about that big honking Bowie knife you got in your pocket when you go to use it.
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Ditto. Native 5 G10. Look no further. :)
 
Since it's possible to get a Gayle Bradley for less than $150, I'd would've recommended that respective folder but it's not stainless -- as the OP desires. So, I'd have to go with the Manix2.
 
Kwon Kwang said:
Thanks for the responses, gents.

Unfortunately, the Gayle Bradley is a bit out of my price range from the cheapest place where I can find it. Please keep the suggestions coming!
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Get the Gayle Bradley be patient and hopefully someone will be selling one for a good price here on BF.
 
Manix 2 is what got me addicted. Converted me from Benchmade. Get one, you'll never regret it.
 
Manix 2 G10 or Para 2. Cold Steels Tri-ad lock although strong brings little enjoyment compared to opening those 2 spiders.
 
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