Top 5 Best Spyderco Knives of 2022

Spyderco is a name household name in the everyday carry and first responder community. Rather than call it a household, we could probably call it “barracks and campfire-hold." For those who may not know the history of Syperco and their knives, Spyderco began in 1976 with Sal and Gail Glesser. in 1981, they created the C01 folder with a large ring (known affectionately as the “spydie hole”) on the top to accommodate one-handed opening. The open ring on Sypderco knives creates more purchase than a thumbnail cut out, while not impacting the cutting depth as posts or buttons do. With the ring becoming a massive success for knife users that needed fast access, Spyderco cemented itself as an everyday carry icon.

Another invention that Spyderco pioneered was the clip. Now commonplace on most folding knives the pocket clip started with Spyderco. Unlike other manufacturers Spyderco’s knives feature multiple clip positions. Allowing users to adjust where the clip rides lets the user determine if the carry left or right side and, in some cases, blade tip up or down.

Everyday knife users are a well-informed group. They may rely on their knives for everything from personal security to the health and safety of others. Understandably there will be a few generic questions that shoppers ask. For the question “Is Spyderco a good brand," the answer is a resounding yes. Since their inception, Spyderco’s have found their way into the pockets of sportsmen, first responders, and paramilitary units worldwide. The next question any potential knife buyer would ask is, "What is the best Spyderco knife?". The best knife is tough to decide because of the varied conditions users may find themselves in. We here at Outdoor Stockroom decided to highlight several knives for the company to let you compare. We have rounded up the top 5 Spyderco knives of 2022, with technical specs and information about their use. Our picks range from larger outdoor use blades to featherweight folders. Size isn't the only consideration. While cost is often indicative of quality, the knives on our list range from the high end of the product line to the entry-level.

The Spyderco Paramilitary 2 represents the newest iteration of Spyderco's iconic pocket folder. Available in black G-10 handle scales the Paramilitray 2 has a handle length of 4.81 inches, allowing for a firm grip in even the largest gloved hand. the Paramilitary 2 features a three-inch flat-ground cutting edge made from CPM-S30V. CPM-S30V is considered the top tier of knife steels, with excellent edge retention and the ability to withstand harsh daily use. Spyderco’s Paramilitary 2 is an excellent EDC choice for those looking for a no-nonsense knife that functions for right or left-hand users. The PM2’s adjustable clip gives users the option to carry tip up, useful for drawing from a pocket or belt or tip down which can be helpful for a fast deployment from a vest or suspenders. The PM2 also features a large lanyard hole, perfect for waterborne activities when a dropped knife results in a lost knife. View the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 in stock here.

  • Overall Length: 8.28"
  • Blade Length: 3.44"
  • Blade Material: CPM-S30V
  • Weight: 3.75 oz.
  • Pocket Clip: Tip-Down, Tip-Up
  • Lock Type: Compression Lock
  • Country of Origin: USA

When the length of the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 is too much, either by blade restrictions or weight restrictions, the Spyderco Para 3 is the answer. Unfortunately, some states and counties have blade length restrictions, for everyday carriers this prompts us to carefully consider how large a knife blade is before we carry it. Most states that have a length restriction have a maximum blade length of three inches, the Para 3’s three-inch blade makes it legal in many states. The Para 3 takes the best features of the PM2 like a flat ground CPM-S30V steel blade, g-10 grips, and a lanyard hole and reduces the overall size of the package. The featherweight knife adds a compression lock to keep the blade in place when you need it. Just like with its big brother, take our advice and use the lanyard hole if you are on the water. These knives are too nice to let the fish keep them. View the Spyderco Para 3 in stock here.

  • Overall Length: 7.27"
  • Blade Length: 3.00"
  • Blade Thickness: 0.15"
  • Blade Material: CPM-S30V
  • Weight: 3.00 oz.
  • Pocket Clip: Tip-Down, Tip-Up
  • Lock Type: Compression Lock
  • Country of Origin: USA

The Spyderco Manix 2 is an EDC knife designed for rugged outdoor use. Unlike the Para series, the iconic “Spydie” hole on the Manix 2 is set lower in the blade resulting in a lower profile knife. This knife is the largest on our list, with an overall length of 8.03 inches. The G-10 handles of the Manix 2 are ergonomically designed to give maximum purchase when using the knife. Topping off the knife’s user-friendly handle design, the top and bottom of the knife handle feature raised stainless steel ridges to increase grip even when wet. The stout blade design of the Manix 2 is similar in profile to many wild game knives where skinning and precise blade handling is needed. While it wouldn’t be our go-to option for dressing wild game the blade style and slip resistant handle would make the Manix 2 a solid stand in. View the Spyderco Manix 2 in stock here.

  • Overall Length: 8.03"
  • Blade Length: 3.37"
  • Blade Material: CPM S30V
  • Weight: 5 oz.
  • Pocket Clip: Tip-Up
  • Lock Type: Ball Bearing
  • Country of Origin: USA

For a minimalist EDC knife, the Spyderco Native 5 lightweight is ideal. The Spyderco Native 5 features a three-inch drop point blade perfect for everyday use, especially in states that have blade length restrictions. The tapered drop point on the Native reduces the resistance and tearing when puncturing materials like cloth or carboard. We understand that cutting gift wrap may not be the first task that comes to mind when purchasing an EDC blade, but you will have the right blade for the job come the holidays. Native 5 features a simple Lockback blade lock allowing for easy operation for right or left-hand carriers. To save on weight, the Native five lightweight replaces the heavier G-10 handles with textured FRN handle scales. The Native 5 is a welcome addition to anyone's everyday carry at less than two and a half ounces. View the Spyderco Native 5 in stock here.

  • Overall Length: 6.875"
  • Blade Length: 3"
  • Blade Material: CPM S30V
  • Locking Mechanism: Lockback
  • Pocket Clip: Tip-Up and tip down
  • Weight: 2.45 oz
  • Country of Origin: USA

To round out the top five of the 2022 Spyderco lineup, the Spyderco Tenacious. The Tenacious is an entry-level knife designed to give users Spyderco quality at a budget-friendly price. The 8CR13MOV blade is highly corrosion resistant and is easily sharpened; both properties make it an excellent choice for newer knife owners learning to maintain their blades. The liner lock system makes the Tenacious as easy to close with one hand as the "spydie" hole does to open it. Users of the Tenacious will find the same great G-10 handles as on the standard Spyderco line. Just like the Para 3, carriers can adjust the clip to either side of the knife or point up or down. While this model is made in China, the finish of the blade and additional features speaks to a level of craftsmanship far above its price point. For new knife owners or budget conscious carriers the Tenacious represents a great EDC option with plenty of bang for the buck. View the Spyderco Tenacious in stock here.

  • Overall Length: 7.76"
  • Blade Length: 3.39"
  • Blade Material: 8Cr13MoV
  • Weight: 4.10 oz.
  • Pocket Clip: Tip-Down, Tip-Up
  • Lock Type: Liner Lock
  • Country of Origin: China

There is our list of the top five Spyderco knives of 2022. From the classic lines of the Paramilitary 2 to the weight-saving design of the lightweight Native 5, there is a knife on this list for everyone. We answered the question “Is Spyderco a good brand” with a resounding yes. From the innovations of the company to the feature packed knives Spyderco is definitely a good brand for everyday carry. For the second question of “What is the best Spyderco knife?", we couldn’t answer that one with just one answer. We at Outdoor Stockroom understand that there is a different set of needs for everyone's EDC choice, and because of that, we strive to provide the greatest array of high-quality tools to fit your needs. From the entry-level carrier to the professional, we and Spyderco have you covered. Are you looking for other Spyderco knives to fit your needs? Look here at our product lineup. Looking for more EDC information? Check out our EDC blog and advice pages.