Some knives are legendary. Models like the Buck Model 110 Folding Hunter and Swiss Army Knife Classic SD are so renowned they’re instantly recognizable just by their profiles.
Another such knife is the Spyderco Paramilitary 2. But why is it that this model is so enduring, even from a brand that itself commands a great deal of respect in its industry?
Let’s take a closer look.
Behind the Spyderco Paramilitary 2
The success of the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 actually begins with its predecessor, the Paramilitary, designed by Spyderco co-founder Sal Glesser and introduced in 1996.
It was designed to answer the question of what knife you’d want to take into the field if you were in military service, and offered a full flat-ground blade, a lightweight design, and easy to use thumb holes for deployment. It also sported a liner lock and a pocket clip for easy carry.
The one drawback to the Military was its size; it sported a 4 inch blade which some users considered unwieldy, not to mention the fact that it ran afoul of carry laws in some jurisdictions.
This led to the development of the Para Military, a smaller version of the Military which also had a new lock type called a Compression Lock, which was stronger than a liner lock and which also allowed the user to close the blade without putting the fingers in the path of the blade.
Here, we have the makings of the Spyderco Paramilitary 2, which offers several design improvements over the Para Military.
For one, it sported an improved ball bearing lock detent that was more reliable with respect to keeping the blade detained in a closed position. It also delivered exceptionally smooth action when deploying (or folding) the blade.
In addition, the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 sported lighter, skeletonized liners that maintained strength while reducing weight, along with countersunk hardware on the scales that kept the knife slimmer and flat along the scales.
The Paramilitary 2 also sports a larger lanyard hole as well as a 4 position pocket clip that significantly expanded versatility with respect to how the knife can be carried.
Early versions of the Paramilitary 2 were made with G10 scales, along with CPM-S30V blades in either a satin finish or treated with a DLC finish, though the line has proliferated since its introduction.
Today, of course, the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 is available with a wide range of scale materials as well as in many different blade steels, but the DNA of the knife remains unchanged.
A smooth operation, strong lock, solid ergonomics, a practical profile, and excellent overall general utility are the defining features of the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 and define it. These are the primary reasons for its enormous popularity and success.
And, of course, no small part of this is hype. Those that carry knives or respect the knife industry hold a high regard for Spyderco, and the Paramilitary 2, as one of its definitive models, enjoys the prestige that comes with that.
Where to Get a Spyderco Paramilitary 2?
Is it time to add a Spyderco Paramilitary 2 to your collection? Visit River’s Edge Cutlery. They carry a wide variety of Spyderco knives and there’s something in their catalog for every need. Check out what they offer and get in touch with them if you have any questions before buying, or if you want a personalized recommendation.
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