Spyderco

Spyderco Shaman: The big brother to the smaller Native knife

I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing the Spyderco Shaman folder and am pleased with to give it a nod of approval. The Shaman doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel and has all of the features that Spyderco fans appreciate but packaged in a new style.

Specifications

Overall Length: 8.25″ (210 mm)
Blade Length: 3.58″ (91 mm)
Steel: CPM S30V
Closed Length: 4.67″ (119 mm)
Edge Length: 3.12″ (79 mm)
Weight: 5.2 oz (147 g)
Blade Thickness: 0.145″ (3.7 mm)
Handle: G-10
Clip Position: Ambi
Tip Carry Position: 4-position
Lock Type: Compression
Grind: Full-Flat
Origin: United States

Specifications courtesy of Spyderco

My thoughts and review

The Spyderco Shaman weighs in a 5.2 oz, it has a blade thickness of .145”, and has an overall length of 8.25” which makes it a somewhat stout folder. Some users might not like the size of the knife for EDC purposes, but if the size doesn’t bother you, you’re getting a robust knife that not only offers a great aesthetic design but great ergonomics as well. With its larger design, the Shaman feels great in the hand and is one of the most comfortable designs by Spyderco. A comparable folder would be the Spyderco Manix 2 (you can read our review of the Manix 2 here, and our second review here).

Unlike other popular Spyderco knives, the Shaman only comes in CPM S30V steel which is the standard steel for most Spyderco knives. While CPM S30V is a common knife steel it is still considered to be higher-end. CPM S30V will suit most people well and will work great for most EDC applications, but if you’re looking for the Shaman in a specific type of steel or one of the “super steels” then you are out of luck for the time being. The knife is offered in either stainless steel or a Diamond Like Carbon (DLC) blade coating, which ultimately comes down to user preference.

The Shaman features G-10 handles, but lack the texturing that is common across Spyderco’s other knife models. Textured G-10 handles may help the user achieve a better grip, but not to such an extent that I would consider the Shaman an inferior design. Just know that the matte-finished G-10 handle on the Shaman is going to feel a little smoother, but certainly offers an aesthetic appeal.

The verdict

The good
-Sturdy build
-Excellent ergonomics

The bad
-Limited to S30V steel (for now)

The Spyderco Shaman is a simple and beautiful folder with all of the desirable features. Its only con is that it’s bigger and heavier than what most people might expect with a pocket knife. With that being said, if you are looking for a larger or sturdier folding knife then you may have found exactly what you are looking for. All in all, the Shaman has all the bells and whistles that I would want in an EDC knife: jimping across the spine and finger groove, Spyderco’s compression lock mechanism, and quality that its users can trust. The Shaman currently has an MSRP of $299.95but can be found for less from various online retailers.

<br />

Spyderco Double Stuff: A good field sharpener goes a long way

I would be preaching to the choir if I told you how significant of a tool a knife is for EDC, go-bags, or survival applications. What I seldom see talked about instead are sharpening options for the field. Some argue that a field sharpener isn’t necessary because a quality knife shouldn’t dull so quickly between knife maintenance, but a field sharpener is a worthwhile insurance policy. If you carry a knife in case of an emergency then that should be reason enough to have a portable sharpener as well. A friend of mine highly recommended that I check out Spyderco’s Double Stuff pocket stones so I requested them to review. I have been nothing but impressed so far after following through with his suggestion.

Specifications

Pocket Stone Double Stuff

$49.95 MSRP

Spyderco’s Double Stuff pocket stone is double sided, offering a medium-grit (brown) stone on one side and a fine-grit (white) stone on the other. Permanently joined by industrial adhesive, these stones create a versatile, compact sharpening tool that is ideal for touching up edges in the field. It comes with a protective suede carry case that doubles as a non-slip base during use and is easily cleaned with household cleanser, a scouring pad, and water.

Made in the USA (Spyderco).

Left: Double Stuff 2 with CBN side face-up. Right: Double Stuff medium-grit side face-up

Double Stuff 2 CBN/Fine w/ Pouch

$74.95 MSRP

Double Stuff 2 Spyderco’s Double Stuff two-sided pocket stone has long been the sharpening tool of choice for fishermen, outdoorsmen, and other knife users who needed a handy, versatile sharpener for touch-ups in the field. The Double Stuff 2 takes this time-tested concept and does it one better by combining an aggressive Cubic Boron Nitride (CBN) abrasive on one side with a fine ceramic stone on the other. This allows the quick, efficient sharpening of dull or chipped edges as well as the easy maintenance of well-sharpened edges in the field. To make the Double Stuff 2 even better, one long edge of each stone offers a radiused surface for sharpening serrations and the fine stone includes a longitudinal groove for fish hooks and pointed tools. Ideal for pocket, pack, or tackle box, the Double Stuff 2 comes complete with a handsome suede pouch.

Cubic Boron Nitride (CBN) is Made in China – Fine Ceramic Stone is Made in the USA (Spyderco).

My thoughts and review

The Spyderco Double Stuff is a high-quality, dual-sided pocket stone capable of sharpening all your knives and tools. Spyderco offers several pocket-sized sharpening stones, but the Double Stuff features two different grits. The beauty of these pocket stones is that they don’t require any water or oils to use, so it makes for easy field use. The Double Stuff pocket stones measure at 1” x 5” and weighs 2.4 oz by my measurement (3.1 oz including the suede pouch). These pocket stones are the perfect size to carry in any bag.

Differences between the Double Stuff and Double Stuff 2

The original Double Stuff is the more practical choice for most people. The Double Stuff has two different grit stones fused together with an industrial adhesive. The brown side is a medium-grit while the white side is a fine-grit. It’s a simple pocket stone, difficult to use if you haven’t hand-sharpened before, but is one of the better field sharpeners available.

The Double Stuff 2 is a new release from Spyderco. It features cubic boron nitride (CBN) in lieu of the medium-grit (brown) on the original. CBN is considerably abrasive, so unless your knife is unusually dull or difficult to sharpen, you probably won’t need to use it when sharpening your blade. The CBN is best suited for repairing damages or chipping along an edge. Think about if you have ever dropped your knife or accidentally struck a hard surface and as a result, the edge was damaged; the Double Stuff 2 was designed for these misfortunes. Therefore the Double Stuff 2 would be great for a go-bag or a bug-out bag, where there is an emphasis on survivability. The Double Stuff 2 also adds to its versatility by featuring a “radiused” edge on the stone to sharpen serrations as well as a groove on the fine stone for fishing hooks.

About the suede pouch

Each Double Stuff comes with a suede pouch which is more than just a nice-looking pouch to carry your pocket stones. The pouch acts as a non-slip base for your Double Stuff out in the field. You can lay your Double Stuff on top of its pouch on any flat surface, or even your thigh, and go to work. The pouch isn’t the best “platform,” but it does a good job of holding your stone in place when you’re in a field environment. Some users also claim to use the pouch as a strop. I personally have a field strop and don’t need to use the pouch as one.

The verdict

The good
-Small and lightweight package makes it easy to pack and carry
–Double Stuff 2 works particularly well fixing a damaged edge
-No water, oil, or lubricant required

The bad
-The Double Stuff 2’s CBN and fine-grit are a big jump in grit rating

The Spyderco Double Stuff is a great field sharpener for all users. Whether you’re in the military, hunt, or use a knife for any field application, the Double Stuff is convenient to pack along with you. If you use your knife frequently out in the field or are just preparing for the worst, you should have a quality sharpener with you. The Double Stuff fits that bill; it is a lightweight, conveniently-sized, and effective sharpening system. This is my sharpener of choice for all my bags and whenever I find myself in the wilderness.

We enjoy hearing from our readers. If you have any experience with Spyderco products or other field sharpening systems, let us know what you think in the comments below!

The Spyderco Karahawk: A rapid deployment karambit for self-defense and everyday carry

There isn’t a more recognizable knife design than the karambit, a curved and often fixed-blade knife whose origins come from Southeast Asia. While it may have originally been used primarily as a work knife, it has evolved to become an unmistakable fighting knife, especially in Western countries. Its design is said to have been inspired to resemble an animal’s claw (e.g. tiger). It’s obvious why the karambit appeals so much to the tactical community. Some argue it’s the deadliest knife you can bring to a fight; at the very least, it’s one of the most intimidating knives available. However, I disagree with that sentiment. While I fancy a novel knife as much as the next guy, let’s not kid ourselves, the best knife you can bring to a fight is a loaded gun. Still, Karambits like the Spyderco Karahawk are more than just mere novelties to add to our collection just for the sake of owning.

Spyderco Karahawk Specifications

Overall Length: 6.50″ (165mm)
Blade Length: 2.35″ (60mm)
Steel: VG-10
Closed Length: 4.50″ (114mm)
Edge Length: 2.05″ (52mm)
Weight: 3.8oz (108g)
Blade Thickness: 0.098″ (2.5mm)
Handle: G-10
Clip Position: Ambi
Tip Carry Position: Tip-Up
Lock Type: Back Lock
Grind: Saber
Origin: Japan

Specifications courtesy of Spyderco

The Kawahawk is the latest addition to my collection and has quickly become one of my heavily rotated everyday carry (EDC) knives. My affinity for Spyderco knives is no secret but it is also completely justified. Spyderco has an irrefutable track record with their designs and new releases. It’s never a surprise to see a handful of Spydercos crowding the top of various knife rankings across publications. As the epitome of a true American manufacturer, their consistent high-quality output inspires loyalty from their consumers. After a couple months of owning the Karahawk, it has yet to disappoint me.

While the Karahawk resembles the traditional karambit, its design is much more utilitarian than it is warlike. The Karahawk’s G-10 handles offers the user great ergonomics and the blade is more of a practical length than an obnoxiously long and menacing one. However, because of its tactical design and bulkier handle, it does draw more attention than any of my other folders. The ring on the butt of the handle sticks out quite far from the pocket and catches a lot of eyes. I’ve gotten quite a few questions from curious people asking what kind of weapon I’m carrying. For that reason, I’d be wary of discretion as it isn’t the Karahawk’s strong suit. The protruding handle does increase the chances of the knife getting snagged on something so be wary of that as well.

The most unique feature on the Karahawk is the Emerson patented “Emerson Opener” on the spine of the blade. The Emerson Opener is a small hook that grabs the inside of the wearer’s pocket when drawn and rotates the blade into the open position. This is a great feature in have in a tactical folder as you want to be able to deploy the knife as fast as possible when the situation arises. The Emerson Opener removes having to manually open the folder, so as soon as you draw the knife from inside your pocket, the blade is already deployed and ready to go. As awesome as this feature sounds, it isn’t infallible. Depending on the design of the pants or shorts that you have on, sometimes the Emerson Opener just doesn’t catch onto the mouth of the pocket to properly deploy the knife. This is easily remedied by twisting the knife as you draw it to ensure that the Emerson Opener does indeed hook onto the mouth of the pocket, but it is something the user has to consciously do to mitigate an unsuccessful draw.

I don’t see the Karahawk as a more intimidating knife than your average EDC folder because of its size but it very well can be. Its rapid deployment courtesy of the Emerson Opener does give it a tactical edge though and the ring on the butt of the handle makes it difficult for an assailant to disarm you if you choose to carry the Karahawk for self-defense. Aside from the few gripes I mentioned, the bottom line is the Karahawk is more than just an aesthetically pleasing novelty from Spyderco, it stands to get the job done and is a great EDC or self-defense option. While the Karahawk does have an MSRP of $304.95, it is offered for much less from online retailers.

All photos courtesy of the author, Matt Jin

Spyderco Dog Tag Folder: Ultimate “carry anywhere” folding knife

Spyderco offers a renowned collection of knives, many of them carried by servicemembers, first responders, and everyday carry (EDC) enthusiasts alike. However, the premier US knife manufacturer also releases quite a few collaborations with custom knifemakers, many of which are popular novelties. One of the most peculiar ones I’ve come across recently is their Dog Tag Folder. Sypderco collaborated with custom knifemaker, Serge Panchenko, and originally released the first Dog Tag Folder in 2014. The knife went through several redesigns and the current Gen4 Dog Tag was released last year in 2017. As its name suggests, the Dog Tag Folder resembles a military dog tag, both in size and shape. At first glance, it may lack some practicality but the Dog Tag is not without its unique merit.

Spyderco Dog Tag Folder Gen4 Specifications

Overall Length: 3.23″ (82mm)
Blade Length: 1.18″ (30mm)
Steel: CTS BD1
Closed Length:2.05″ (52mm)
Edge Length: 1.18″ (30mm)
Weight: 0.9oz (26g)
Blade Thickness: 0.118″ (3.0mm)
Handle: Aluminum
Lock Type: Slipjoint
Grind: Saber
Origin: Taiwan

Specifications courtesy of Spyderco

View this post on Instagram

DogTags. Which is your favorite, Gen 1,2,3 or 4 (left to right). #sergeknives #everydaycarry #edccommunity #pocketdump #edcgear #usnfollow #usnstagram #bestknivesofig #edcknives #knifestagram #spydercodogtag #spyderco #industrialdesign #edcig #dogtag #machinist #edcshowcase #knifecommunity #geardump #instamachinist #knifelife #cncmachining #knifemaking #knifenut #knifelife #edccarry #edcknife #knivesofig #knivesdaily #knivesofinstagram

A post shared by Serge Knives Inc. (@sergeknives) on Oct 30, 2018 at 3:39am PDT

The Gen4 Dog Tag features aluminum handle scales with a blade made of CTS-BD1 stainless steel, a steel made specifically for Spyderco. CTS-BD1 is comparable to 154CM except that it is criticized for its edge retention. However, I don’t mind the steel choice at all as 1.) Spyderco has a superb reputation in their heat-treatment process, one they aren’t going to risk by manufacturing a subpar knife and 2.) I wouldn’t use this knife as my primary EDC or a work knife anyways, it isn’t designed to be one. Instead, the Dog Tag fills the role of a backup knife incredibly well.

What I like about the Dog Tag is its minimalist design. This is a folder that anyone can add to their loadout and no one is going to complain about the additional weight and space. Its best use is as a backup knife or your EDC in places where a little discretion is necessary. That’s it, simple, what you see is what you get. In a market overrun with ads about all the latest and greatest gear, there’s something to like about simplicity.

There are however a couple potential cons I noticed. The Dog Tag is a non-locking knife and is instead held in place by a ball-bearing detent. This means the detent will hold the knife in its open and closed positions, but slight pressure on the spine of the blade will force it closed. While it isn’t a dealbreaker, be wary that the blade can close on you. Aside from that, the only real con I can see is that the handle of the knife extends past the blade’s edge. Since the Dog Tag is already such a short knife, I would have liked to see the edge flushed with the handle to maximize its cutting efficiency.

The Dog Tag Folder may have piqued your interest because of its unique design but it may have also raised questions about how practical of a folder it really is. I’m glad to give you a little reassurance that the Dog Tag is a worthy consideration to your knife collection. In the Dog Tag Folder, you have a backup knife that doesn’t take up much room or add too much weight to your loadout. It’s a neck knife that doesn’t ever get in the way, one that you’ll hardly even notice it’s there. You’ll also have a hard time finding another folder that’s as concealable as the Dog Tag is, just based on how small it actually it is. MSRP for the Dog Tag Gen4 runs for $99.95, but as all knives on the market, you can find it for less from various retailers. It’s a fun novelty knife by Spyderco that most of us enthusiasts will enjoy.

All photos courtesy of the author, Matt Jin

Loadout Room Approved Knife Sharpeners

We have recently begun a ‘Loadout Room Approved‘ series of articles where we recommend specific gear for you to purchase and use. We test and evaluate quite a bit of gear, clothing, firearms and firearms accessories. Our goal with this series is to sift through all those articles and give to you what we actually use and recommend. Our past two articles covered EDC Bags and EDC Knives. In this installment we are going to cover Knife Sharpeners. Many of you own, carry and use knives on a daily basis. Keeping your knife maintained and sharp is critical.

Lansky Sharpening Paddle

The Lansky Sharpening Paddle is one of the most efficient sharpening paddles on the market. Efficient is both its effectiveness and its size. It’s a folding device that functions a lot like a Balisong. It folds into its handles for easy carry and storage. The folding nature also protects the sharpening paddle from being damaged or chipped when carried. It’s a dual side device that packs in a coarse and fine side for easy sharpening. It’s nice and easy to carry via bag, belt pouch, or even on a plate carrier. It fits an SMG pouch too!

DMT Dia-Sharp Credit Card Sharpener

I really like the DMT Dia- Sharp Credit Card diamond sharpener. It fits nicely in your wallet or any other place that you would put credit card sized objects into. When you’re on the road or out on patrol and board, pull this handy tool to sharpen your blades. It comes in three different colors that easily identify the grit needed; course, fine, and extra-fine for this model. DMT describes the surface of this whetstone as continuous diamond, which; Made with the same consistently sized preferred Monocrystalline diamond as our ‘polka-dot’ interrupted surface products but performs with slightly less aggressiveness. Well suited for small contact areas and pointed tools as well as sharpening, honing and deburring. If you have been using a traditional whetstone some of which weigh a few pounds this credit card sized sharpener will meet all your requirements while keeping the minimalist ideals well intact. The thickness (1 mm) of this whetstone is also great for sharpening those serrated grooves.

Lansky Sharpening Puck

The Lansky Sharpening Puck was chosen because of its versatility. It can be used to sharpen both knives and axes equally well. There are other tools that many SERE Specialist use in my career field to specifically sharpen knives (diamond sharpening stones) however they lack the versatility of the sharpening puck. When using the puck to sharpen a knife you start with it in your hand using the “barstool technique” whereby your fingers are all below the edge of the puck to ensure that you do not slice your finger tips off while sharpening your knife.

Spyderco Tri-Angle Sharpmaker

If you’re looking for something portable, yet able to be more of a ‘work bench’ type system when at home then take a look at the Spyderco Tri-Angle Sharpmaker. I own a few different knife sharpening systems. I’ve found that the one easiest to set up and use for the average person is the Spyderco Sharpmaker. This system has been around since the 1990s and hasn’t changed much. Hey, don’t fix it if it isn’t broke, right? One of the key benefits of the Spyderco Sharpmaker is that the sharpening stones are preset to a 40 degree angle, which is common on most knives. The Spyderco Sharpmaker breaks down into a self-contained package, making it ideal for taking out into the field or to camp.

Viking Whetstone Pendant

Looking for something unique? Check this out! Many warriors of the past used different forms of fixed blades or axes. They also learned how to maintain their weapons on the battlefield. One of those groups was the Vikings. I recently stumbled upon a new sharpening stone. This one is unique in that it is a replica Viking Whetstone Pendant. Available from Wazoo Survival Gear for only $24, I had to check one out.

We hope this article helps you out with regards to purchasing a knife sharpener for your needs. If you already own and use a sharpening system that you would recommend we’d like to hear about it in the comments.

*Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date with our articles, reviews and photos.

Spyderco and Ackerman knives have a baby- It’s not ugly either

As avid of a knife fan as I am, I still feel like I need to justify the purpose and intent of each one I own. Fixed blade knives have a wide range of uses. From skinning a deer, filleting a fish or self-defense; these primitive weapons still find a special place in our heart, regardless of the immediate need for one. First holding the Spyderco Serrata, I noticed the incredibly thick blade (6mm) and the undeniably smooth, contoured G10 scales. This led me to ponder the makers intended use for this blade seeing as it was just as beefy as it was elegant. Was it for the safe? Or did it serve to skin some game? The lack of jimping on the top tang failed to lend some sort of texture to the blade that would normally allow for a better grip. The scales, as smooth and elegant as they are, wouldn’t be too well suited for a defense or combat knife in my opinion so I’m led to believe that this was a passion project done for pure joy and the mutual respect between Ackerman and Spyderco CEO Sal Glesser. The knife is attractive, there is no denying that. It’s clean, sleek, but still holds enough weight that it commands a presence amongst the rest of my collection.

Still in search of where this steal would find itself in my collection, I found out that it handled camp duties in a far superior manner than anything I had previously. In fact, I think that this is where this blade will shine. The thick tang will allow you to break up tinder into kindling without fear of bending the knife. The amazing edge would do well at cutting up meat or vegetables for the skillet. The Kydex sheath that comes with the knife is well crafted and has the ability for multiple methods of attachment.

My preferred style is to have it horizontally lay attached to my belt on the small of my back (not recommended if carrying a backpack). Made with 440C steel and hailing from Taiwan, this isn’t exactly the type of blade to see a high resale value down the road if you’re looking to swap out some old steel with knew, but it does carry the Stuart Ackerman name with it. It took some time to search for my preferred use for this knife, but it has now found a permanent home in my camping kit with years of faithful service on the horizon. Not afraid to make it a workhorse, I am proud to own this collaboration project.

Overall Length 9.25″ (235 mm)
Blade Length 4.63″ (118 mm)
Steel Cast 440C
Closed Length N/A (N/A)
Edge Length 4.63″ (118 mm)
Weight 7.9 oz (224 g)
Blade Thickness 0.238″ (6.0 mm)
Handle G-10
Clip Position Adjustable
Sheath Kydex
Origin Taiwan