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Last Updated: July 13, 2019
Poll any knife reviewer, knife YouTube Channel, or knife forum, asking what the best Every Day Carry (EDC) knife is, and the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 is going to come up time and time again. It’s a rock star in the EDC world, and for good reason. It’s a form follows function design with great cutting ability, great ergonomics, and that difficult to describe “X” factor that keeps people coming back year after year.
I originally purchased and reviewed this knife in 2012. Looking back, the review is a little stale, but the knife continues to be in my personal rotation of daily carry blades, and it continues to have captured the hearts and minds of knife enthusiasts around the globe. So I am going to try to break down why the knife is so good in this updated Spyderco Paramilitary 2 review.
And let me assure you that this is not some flash in the pan hot take. I’ve owned this knife for over 5 years now, and have compared it to hundreds of knives. I’m giving the review a major update in 2018. So strap in and lets explore why this USA Made gem continues to hit all the buttons for edged enthusiasts.
General Dimensions and Blade Details
The Para 2 has an overall length of 8.3″, a 3.4″ blade, weighs 3.75 ounces, and is made in the USA. This is a larger knife, designed to be either a tactical knife or a heavy-duty utility folder. I also know that for many, this is an EDC knife. Personally, the Para 2 is a little bigger than what I typically like to carry, but my knife has seen plenty of use on the weekends.
I must not be alone in finding the Para 2 on the large side, because in 2017 Spyderco released the Paramilitary 3. Ben wrote a full review on it.
The Para 2 features a classic Spyderco drop point blade. It’s been given a full flat grind and is made from 3.5mm blade stock. The knife has a nice amount of belly, an excellent tip and has proven to be a tremendous slicer. Rounding things out is a well ground edge that came extremely sharp. I have found that this is a great knife for food prep. For example, I had to slice a lot of large ciabatta rolls, and the 3.4″ blade really made easy work of the task.
You have the option of a satin finish (shown here) or a diamond like carbon (DLC) coating for the blade on your Paramilitary 2. I like DLC coatings a lot, they are about as good as a knife coating can get, but I have no experience with Spyderco’s formulation. I can say that everything I read about their DLC coating was favorable, and I love my satin finished version.
Blade steel is the very capable S30V. Knife enthusiasts won’t need me to say much about S30V, it has been popular for close to a decade now. But for the uninitiated this is an all around excellent steel. It has been usurped by S35VN and other even more premium steels over the year, but S30V remains more than adequate for most people. S30V is relatively easy to sharpen, takes a very nice edge, and can hold a good working edge for a very long time. It’s also quite resistant to rust and corrosion.
Spyderco has released a number of sprint runs of the Paramilitary 2 over the years in a wide range of exotic steels and handle colors. I’d like to see them upgrade the standard Para 2 to S35VN or CTS-XHP at some point. For the time being a premium version of the knife in S110V with blurple scales is available (apparently as a non-sprint run on Spyderco’s regular lineup for the foreseeable future).
And here is a size comparison with the Para 2 next to my Sage 1:
Handle, Ergonomics and Pocket Clip
The Paramilitary 2 handle is black G10 over nested stainless steel liners. The liners have been milled out somewhat to reduce the weight, and at 3.75 ounces the knife is very light overall. The corners have all been nicely rounded and the liners sit flush with the G10. Everything is screwed together and you have an open construction design with 2 pillars and a very large lanyard loop. All in all, handle construction is top notch.
The ergonomics on the Para 2 are outstanding. Spyderco has once again made excellent use of a 50-50 choil to give you more options and better control over your knife. A 50-50 choil is a finger choil made from both the blade stock and the handle. What I like about this is that you have the option of setting your hand back on the knife to maximize reach, or you can choke up for more detailed cutting tasks. Either way the handle is plenty big and extremely comfortable.
The 50-50 choil is part of the reason why so many Spyderco knives consistently get excellent ergonomic ratings from me. Rounding things out is perhaps one of the best jimped thumb ramps I’ve ever come across. The jimping is just phenomenal on this knife. It practically super-glues your thumb in place without being so toothy it’s uncomfortable.
The pocket clip is a standard Spyderco hour-glass shaped clip. It’s large and has a bright satin finish. It offers good retention and a decently deep carry. The clip works, but I’d love to see a blackened deep carry clip to come standard. That would make the knife more discreet in your pocket. Casey Lynch has developed a deep carry titanium pocket clip for the Para 2, and frankly I think I should get one of these. The standard Spyderco clip works, but it’s not my favorite.
The Spyderco Paramilitary 2 carries great in the pocket. Although this is a larger knife, the Para 2 is thin and relatively lightweight, so it doesn’t weigh down your pockets and doesn’t create much bulk. It’s no Dragonfly II, a knife I routinely forget I’m carrying, but the Para 2 carries surprisingly well for a larger knife thanks to the thin design.
Deployment and Lock
Deployment on the Paramilitary 2 is accomplished via an oversized Spyder-hole. And I really do mean oversized. At 14mm in diameter it is really a much bigger thumb hole than I am used to – but I quickly grew accustomed to it and now I absolutely love it. Deployment is incredibly, fast, smooth and consistent. This is a great knife to use with gloves and it ensures a smooth and effortless deployment with every flick. Backing up that oversized thumb hole is a pair of large phosphor bronze washers. These washers are very smooth and only get better as the knife breaks in. So deployment is just outstanding.
The Spyderco Paramilitary 2 makes use of a compression lock to lock the blade open. This is my first review of a knife with a compression lock, and my impressions of the mechanism are extremely favorable.
At first glance this might just appear to be a liner lock on the back of the knife – in practice that really couldn’t be further from the truth. The compression lock works by wedging a piece of the liner between the tang and a stop pin. As force is applied to the knife (from either the spine or the edge) the lock compresses and the sandwich of tang, liner and pin hold the blade firmly in place. The harder you push on the knife, the tighter the lock gets. It’s an incredibly strong design and is really quite ingenious.
There is no blade play of any kind with my knife, and the compression lock is easy to use with one hand. I like how you can disengage the lock and fold away the blade without placing your fingers within the path of the blade.
Another thing I really like about the compression lock is how easy it is to disengage with one hand. It may take a little practice at first, but it’s easy to close the knife one hand without putting your fingers anywhere near the path of the edge – a total impossibility with a liner lock or frame lock. This makes the knife infinitely fun to manipulate. In terms of pure blade-flicking enjoyment I rank it right up there with an axis lock. I’ve heard some accounts of the lock being sticky, I have not experienced that personally and would think that any stickiness would go away as the knife breaks in.
Here is a parting shot of my Para 2 next to the Benchmade Griptilian. And while I’m at it, here is a link to an article I wrote on the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 vs. the Benchmade Griptilian if you are trying to decide between the two.
Blade centering on my knife is perfect.
Spyderco Paramilitary 2 vs. Para 3
I’m sure many readers are looking for a size comparison between the Para 2 and Para 3. Ben reviewed the Para 3 back in 2017, and I acquired and reviewed a Para 3 Lightweight in 2019. Here is a size comparison between the two knives:
As you can see the Para 3 is significantly shorter. Now, I’ve got the LW version of the Para 3 so this isn’t exactly an “apples to apples” comparison, but the major difference between the Para 2 and 3 that I noticed is the shorter handle of the Para 3. It’s a good deal shorter. I’ve found the ergonomics aren’t quite as good on the Para 3, but it’s much more pocketable. That’s the biggest trade off.
You sacrifice some comfort and blade length for a smaller, easier to carry knife. True Spyderco fans will inevitably acquire both.
Spyderco Paramilitary 2 Review – Final Thoughts
The Spyderco Paramilitary 2 is just an outstanding knife. It’s no surprise that this is the EDC of a lot of serious knife collectors. If you poll a group of people who routinely purchase $100-500+ knives, odds are very good that a Paramilitary 2 is a serious part of their EDC rotation. This is for very good reason. You have a tough knife with premium steel that is wonderfully balanced, highly ergonomic, and extremely functional. When you factor in the ~$100 price tag and fact that it’s made in the USA, well, the knife just speaks for itself.
If you want a workhorse of an EDC or a robust folding tactical knife, I think that the Paramilitary 2 should be very high on your list. It easily makes my best EDC knives list and receives my highest endorsement.
- An Improved Classic: Undeniably one of Spyderco's most popular and in-demand designs, the Para Military 2 distills the world-class performance of our legendary Military Model into a more compact, Pocket-Friendly package.
- Superior Quality: We kept the same high-performance full flat-ground blade but we've also lengthened the blade's tip and added additional surface jimping to both the spine and finger coil.
- A Secure Grip: The G-10 handle is narrowed at the end improving the Ergonomics. The handle and blade have been profile thinner; removing uncomfortable angles when in the closed position.
- Easy-to-Use: The Para Military 2 features extreme strength, reliability, and ease of use of our patented Compression Lock mechanism and versatility of a 4-position pocket clip.
- Dependable: Refinements to overall construction may not be drastic but from the G-10 textured handle to the steel full flat blade, everything is sharper, smoother and guaranteed to provide performance and user comfort.
I recommend purchasing the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 at Amazon or BladeHQ. Purchasing anything through any of the links on this site helps support BladeReviews.com, and keep this review train running. As always, any and all support is greatly appreciated.
That is actually a very good price for a S30V blade that size from a brand like Spyderco, a few years ago that could have easily been a $150-200 knife. Looks like a beauty, too. Definitely on the wish-list. As I said re: the Native, Spyderco makes an excellent knife, as good as anyone’s.
Re: larger EDC blades, is legality an issue where you live? Out here (east coast) it can be; in the wrong place at the wrong time it could draw some scrutiny, unless you have a good reason to be carrying it. So I make up for it by carrying several smaller ones…..:)
I totally agree Earl, I think ~$110 is a nice deal considering – I think we have online shopping to thank for that!
In Florida it can be a legality issue, really it depends. If you get a concealed carry permit you can carry pretty much whatever you want, fixed blades, large folders, etc. I generally feel more comfortable carrying a 3″ or under blade here from a legal standpoint (and a “deadly force” standpoint).
I doubt any brick and mortar stores will carry the blade anytime soon. I was on a waiting list with http://www.bladehq.com for over 6 months and then I got an email saying it was available and I waited 3 days till payday to buy it and it was already sold out. A month later I got another email saying it was available but instead of the black blade with the camo handle which is the one I wanted they had the satin Finish with the camo handle so I swooped it up no more then five minutes after receiving the email I wasn’t gonna waste a single second because I might not have another chance for 6-12 months. This knife is probably one of the most high demand knife in it’s price range due to the high quality you get for such a reasonable price. S30V steel in this size is impossible to find under $150-$200. I had never purchased a knife over $100 but it was worth every penny. Next $100 knife on my list is the SOG Kiku, super bad knife if you haven’t heard of it check it out ASAP.
Thanks, Paul. Sounds like supply has gotten even tighter over the months. I’ve heard good things about the Kiku, wouldn’t mind checking it out at some point.
Dan
Dang man, I might have to sell that Benchmade Griptillian that I hardly ever carry anymore and pick one of these up after watching that review. I’d be interesting in seeing a cutaway of how that compression lock engages; or, if anyone wants to take a stab at explaining it to a fellow who has a hard time visualizing things, have at it.
hah! It would be a cool upgrade from your Griptilian man! A cutaway would be cool – maybe I can drum one up somewhere. Thanks for checkin in bro!
As a quick follow up – I took my Para 2 apart and snapped a pic. Hope it helps!
Thanks Lew, that makes things much easier.
One of the best EDC knives on the market for the price.
Could agree more brother EO! Thanks for stoppin by.
Good write up!
The Para2 is by all accounts a handsome blade. I have two gripes about it. First of all my local brick-and-mortar shop seems to be physically unable to get one in stock which makes me a bit pissed off (I want to give them my money in exchange for goods, Y they not have stocked inventory?!), secondly I find the off-centre tip-up clip a bit of an aestetical eye-sore. This is strange as Spydie always does great clips and clip placement but I guess that mahusive Spydie-hole (who needs room for more than gutten 550 anyways?) makes a centred and symmetrical clip impossible. I think it looks too Cold Steel, my opinion. I think it’s a shame as a Para3 with the clip design from the Military/Tenacious-family would really float my boat.
Thanks Lew – I agree entirely! The clip position strikes me as a little odd with that big honking lanyard loop – it also makes carry slightly less then ideal. It’s still good, but could be improved slightly with different positioning (and a smaller lanyard hole). As always thanks for the great comment. Oh and I will take my Para 2 apart and make a picture of the compression lock to add to the review – excellent idea! 🙂
I want to travel back in time and slap my younger self over the ear – he was an idiot. I knife I wanted so bad that I actually travelled across the Atlantic to Smyrna, Georgia just to pick it up. Fan-bloody-tastic little blade.
Great review Dan!
I have read so many positive threads about it on various forums over the past year that I recently picked one up.
I can’t find anything to complain about it at all — mine was perfect out of the box — the only problem is having to decide to carry it or the Kershaw Skyline for my smaller EDC knife!
I am looking forward to picking up some of the sprint runs of the Para-Military 2 soon too.
Hey Greg! Thanks so much man. Glad you like yours too – it’s hard to find much to dislike about the knife. I know some people have got sticky compression locks and maybe the pocket clip isn’t in the absolutely most perfect position possible, but really it’s just a well done knife. I’ve really been enjoying mine too. Thanks again for stopping by man. Have a good one!
I love my two Military, one manufactured in 2003 and the other bought in 2010!
Both came with a different screw head on the clip, though!
After pondering what knives shall I buy again!? I have decided few days ago asking my buddy to buy (from NG) one more Military and a Para Military, because it’s smaller and comes with a compression lock, that aroused my interest! But never mind because I trusted Spyderco for their design, folder making process & selection of materials associated with it!
I haven’t get a chance to own a compression lock knife! After watching your video..I think I like it!
What is the two marking on the round hole?
My Dodo has a marking that looked like one of yours…the E!
Hey Justin!
I think the Para 2 is an awesome knife. If you like the Military, odds are you are going to like the Para 2. Like you said, it’s a little smaller but it’s still a very rugged and functional knife.
To answer your question, the 2 markings by the Spyderhole are the logos for Sal Glesser and Eric Glesser (the owner of Spyderco and his son). They both worked on the design of the Para 2, so that’s why their logos are there. I believe Eric also designed the Dodo – another really cool Spyderco.
Thanks so much for stopping by Justin. If you do happen to pick up a Para 2 I’d love to hear what you think of it.
Hi Dan,
Just received confirmation from my buddy that he had ordered the Military & Para Military both in Digi Camo also included is a Manix 2 XL…with NG!
I will keep you posted once I have grabbed hold of it!
It will be much later since he can only manage to pass it to me some where in Jun later!
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Hi Dan,
Late for this report!
Come to think of it on the phrase “have knife will travel”…I have just collected my Mili, Para Mili both in Digi Camo & Manix 2 XL yesterday nite 09 Oct 2012 from my buddy’s (in US) father’s house in KL.
His dad with his whole family have traveled to China from KL in Sep 28 to meet him and his family in China (from US), just got back from China and arrived in KLIA on that very morning!
So to speak..the 3 Spydie travel back to KL from US (Junior) via China (Senior), then brought back by the Senior and presented to me!
Viola! I was so delighted, excited and so cool feeling after taking a glimpse on the Spydie!
Para Mili is the classic one..thought I was not aware (not so sure) on the PM II and it’s differences!
I have been waiting to grab this piece some time before I place my order instead on the PM II which was to no avail then! When I have come across this PM II, I notice the blade is thinner from the spec when it was put up for sale then..so I still opt for the classic without noticing the more ergonomic design on the PM II.
Never mind, will grab this later when I got the chance again!
Manix 2 XL…it’s heavier and comes with a solid feel! There is a contrasting feeling when you hold the two different knives one at a time! It’s kind of ironic..on both great knives! I cannot tell from here the durability and the functionality from here without actually putting both to use and to see and tell the difference!
I will keep it instead of using it! I can still afford to abusing my Benchmade 905.
Don’t get the mix feeling from my swaying statement on my actual scenario of using…905, because a Spidie is still a Spydie!
Manix 2 XL…solid & heavier vs. the Mili for god’s sake! It’s two different stories all together!
Hey Justin,
Thanks for the follow up! So happy to hear you have been enjoying your Para 2 and Manix XL. The Manix 2 XL is one I haven’t handled myself yet but have heard so many good things about it. Really nice knife. I hate to send you on another goose chase but if you get the chance to handle a Superleaf I think you may like it a lot. I played around with one this past weekend and was super impressed. Big, flat ground blade, smooth and easy action, yet still lightweight and manageable.
Anyhow, thanks for the report. 🙂 Take care,
Dan
Haha! Nice review and I find it funny that I am reading this now. I borrowed my co-worker’s knife today (she actually got me into knives). A Spyderco with a compression lock like this one has. Sure enough I thought “an upside down liner lock” and I thought it a dumb design.
Thanks, Dan, for the knowledge as I now know what an actually good design it is (and how it is meant to be closed)! I thought when I first used it, why would they require me to use two hands to close the thing? After watching your video I realize I still got a lot to learn about knives!
The para 2 looks like a beauty. Might have to add this to the small but growing collection. Man! So many cool knives out there!
lol! Thanks Spanky! I stand on the shoulder of giants man – I can’t claim that I understood the merits of this particular lock until I used this one a lot, took it apart, got some feedback from other people, and really spent some time with it. We are all on the same path here (to further our understanding of knives) and I’m just happy you are here with us.
I really like the Para 2 a lot man, it makes a nice addition to anyone’s collection imo. Thanks again and take care. 🙂
Thank you for your review. It was one of the reviews that made me buy a black DLC paramilitary. DLC coating is awesome – super hard. And completely black paramilitary looks somewhat special ;).
What I like about DLC coating is that it improves wear resistance of the knife, an it’s easier to wash off fat from it (from cutting meat). On the other hand it makes cutting fruits and vegetables harder – it is not as smooth as steel when gliding on wet surfaces.
My pleasure Alex, glad you have been enjoying your Para 2. I have heard great things about Spyderco’s DLC coatings – I agree, it does look special. Thanks for the info about slicing, that makes sense although honestly I wouldn’t have guessed it would have had that big of an effect on cutting. I appreciate that info and I am sure others who are contemplating the Para 2 appreciate it as well.
Dan
As a side note, I think that tip-down carry is safer with paramilitary 2, because compression lock doesn’t hold the blade that well in the closed position. For tip-up carry that means that the knife could be opened with the force of gravity, and consequences could be quite grave.
Thanks Alex – it’s certainly something to consider when carrying tip up! For me, I continue to tip up carry my Para 2 without issue – I keep the blade up next against the seam of my pocket to help prevent it from opening. But yes, carry tip up at your own risk.
Dan
I received my PM2 this week and I am a little disappointed that the blade centering is a bit off with the blade listing a little to the lock bar side of the knife. It seems there is some extra friction in the pivot, perhaps the lock bar against the blade, because this particular knife is not flying open without active assistance. It does however open with ease using the thumbhole. Flicking the knife closed with one hand is also a bit difficult. It can be done, but you have to really put some umph in the motion. Perhaps i’ve been a bit spoiled by the ease with which my mini-grip flies open and closed.
I had expected better build quality in a $100 U.S. made knife but that one gripe aside I am very impressed with this thing. Everything else about the PM2 is absolutely perfect. It is an awesome knife I and plan to keep it and beat the hell out of it for many years to come.
Hey Shannon,
The Para 2 generally will break in with time and get smoother. It might take a little tweaking with the pivot too. At any rate I am glad you generally enjoy it. It’s not the prettiest knife with the most amazing fit and finish but it’s sturdy and a very good design. It should serve you well.
Best,
Dan
After carrying it for more than 2 years I can say that while DLC coating protects the knife from corrosion, it is a subject to scratches, and will show some wear over time. I managed to scratch the surface (it became not so smooth and polished, but just matte in spots) by cutting branches, pumpkins, and chicken bones.
And sand scratched through some spots on the coating, so now it is not as smoothly black.
I would say that satin S30v on my Sage 1 fared better, even though I did whittle branches with it too, and did abuse it on some trips.
Alex,
Thanks for the long term thoughts on the DLC coating. I found it interesting, and I am sure a lot of people will benefit from you sharing your experience.
Dan
It seems like most Spydercos come tip up as a factory standard and I found it interesting that the PM2 arrived tip down out of the box. I immediately changed it to tip up but started to get some discomfort from the clip when using the knife. I switched it back to tip down and noticed that the bend in the spoon clip is perfectly placed to cradle the knuckle pad at the base of the index finger, eliminating any hot spots. It seems that the clip was intentionally placed there to make a more comfortable grip for the user.
I generally prefer to carry my knives tip up but I carry my PM2 tip down. With the clip in that position this is one of the most ergonomically perfect tools I’ve ever had in my hands. What a fantastic design.
Very interesting Shannon! Glad you found out a way to carry it that works well for you. I agree that it is a very comfortable knife – thanks for stopping by!
Dan
Dan – thanks for this in depth review. It really has me questioning the purchase of the Para 2 – a knife I didn’t think I would be interested in regardless of the hype. Of my meager assortment of knives, Spyderco is one of the least represented. That my change as a result of your review.
Thanks again,
Jack
You are very welcome, Jack. Thank you for stopping by. Spyderco has a lot of nice patterns but the Para 2 is a crowd pleaser for good reason. It’s an honest hardworking tool. If you decide to get one I hope you like it.
Thanks again,
Dan
Great review. I want one. I already have many (my wife would say too many) folders including a Sebenza and a Spyderco Yokimba 2 which I love for that ruler straight awesome. Edge. But my favorite EDC is a Spyderco Military. The ONLY issue I have with this beauty is the jaw dropping reaction it generates when it snaps open. So maybe the Para 2 is the way to go. Ah, decisions, decisions.
Hah! TP, when there is a will, there is a way! I predict a Para 2 in your future…
Take care,
Dan
Great review, Dan. Very comprehensive and informative. I don’t want to lavish too much praise because I must admit a bias. I purchase a Para 2 sometime ago and in my experience this has, hands down, been the best EDC folder I’ve ever owned. Although my first Spyderco, I just love everything about this knife from the steel, blade design and just overall ergonomics. It feels like an extension of my hand and I appreciate the comfortable and useful jibbing on the 50-50 choil; adds to excellent control for fine, delicate work. Anyway, thank you for your valued opinion on this knife. I will refer to this when friends and acquaintances ask for an opinion other than mine.
Hey Philip,
Thanks for stopping by. Great minds must think alike! 😉 All kidding aside, this is an excellent knife and I am glad you have been enjoying yours as well. Feel free to use the review to further the adoption of the Paramilitary 2s among your friends and family – it’s a damn good cause!
Dan
Hi Dan! We had a short exchange on another review about this knife, and in my shopping I have come across a potentially decent deal on the SV110 version. Would you recommend that? Either knife would be an upgrade for me, as I am unfamiliar with either steel, so any input would be appreciated!
Danny
Hey Danny,
I have heard great things about S110V, although I personally do not have much experience with the steel. I’d say if you can get a decent deal on it go right ahead. These are popular knives so worst case scenario you could always sell it if it didn’t strike your fancy for some reason.
Dan
What would qualify as a good deal? The price in looking at is 199…
Danny,
I am not sure what the 110V ones sell for. Whether it’s worth the near $100 premium over a regular S30V Para 2 would depend a great deal on how much you care about the steel in your knife. Personally, I’m fine with S30V – but I know some guys love the exotic steels and $199 is probably within line of what they sell for.
Dan
Dan,
That answers my question well enough…If SV30 is already plenty to be a useful tool, then I’d rather use the extra money elsewhere. Plus, getting the knife with DLC might allow that huge clip to be more discreet too (that is an important factor for me)
I am on my second Spyderco Paramilitary 2, this one with the black blade and handle. One can get it now with either the Titanium or Carbon Fiber handle also. But it can run well over 2 bills then. But ditto to all the positive statements about this knife!
I was always also thinking and speaking of the larger Spyderco Military “4, there ya can get the Titanium or Carbon Fiber handles. I have one of these also.
I recently purchased this knife through the Amazon link. After checkout I was looking at the reviews, which I should have done before purchase. There seems to be a sporadic flux of imitation knives being sent out. Have you had any questions about this? I guess I will find out tomorrow when the knife is delivered. At this point I am a little concerned but all I can do is wait. I think I will stick with Bladehq for my future purchases.
Hi RJ,
This is the first I’ve heard of this. Hopefully you get a genuine knife, but the nice thing is that Amazon has good return policies.
Best,
Dan
The para2 too large ?? No, the good size is the one of the Military (the original and the true one !), very comfortable in the hand, even if it’s heavier. The other knives are babies to hold between two fingers !
When I think of a large folder, the Recon 1 or Ontario Rat 2 come to mind. The Para 2 is not so big. The CPM S30V steel has just the right balance of edge holding, sharpenability, corrosion resistance and toughness. I am not completely sold on S35VN, but CTS-XHP would be interesting as an alternative to S30V. I do not have a Para 3 yet, but I am curious about it in comparison to the Para 2. I usually carry the Para 2 EDC or a Kershaw Leek with the 14C28N/D2 blade. I have several other knives which see action if I am outdoors, the Cold Steel Recon 1 with CTS-XHP blade being a favorite when camping or fishing. The supersteel’s are fine, but harder to sharpen in my experience. Elmax isn’t quite the bastard to sharpen as S110V is. S90V is also not fun to sharpen in the field. Just my humble opinion. God Bless!
The knife is outstanding