Spyderco Dragonfly 2 Zome Folding Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Spyderco Dragonfly 2 Zome Folding Knife

The Spyderco Dragonfly 2 Zome Folding Knife is a marvel of compact design and striking aesthetics. Manufactured by Spyderco, this knife marries functionality with an artistic flair. Its hand-dyed Zome pattern, VG-10 blade, and lightweight FRN handle make it a unique and practical tool for everyday carry.

I needed a reliable, lightweight knife for tasks ranging from opening packages to preparing kindling. The Dragonfly 2 Zome immediately caught my eye due to its manageable size and attractive design. I was also intrigued by the positive reviews regarding its edge retention and comfortable grip.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the vibrant, unique Zome pattern. The green hues blended seamlessly, giving the knife a distinctive, almost organic look. The knife felt incredibly light in hand, yet the build quality appeared solid and well-constructed.

I considered the Benchmade Bugout and the Ontario Rat Model 2. The Bugout is also lightweight, but I preferred the unique aesthetics and back lock of the Dragonfly 2 Zome. The Rat 2 is more robust but also significantly larger, defeating the purpose of a truly compact EDC knife.

My initial impression was one of pleasant surprise. I expected a small, functional knife, but the Dragonfly 2 Zome delivered a surprising level of fit and finish along with a genuinely beautiful design. It sparked a sense of excitement, making me eager to put it to use.


Real-World Testing: Putting Spyderco Dragonfly 2 Zome Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Spyderco Dragonfly 2 Zome Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for various tasks, including preparing food, cutting rope, and whittling small pieces of wood for starting a fire. The knife performed admirably in these initial tests.

The weather was damp, with intermittent rain, which made me appreciate the textured FRN handle. It provided a secure grip even when wet, preventing any slippage during use. The blade’s sharpness also impressed me, slicing through materials with minimal effort.

The opening action was smooth and intuitive, requiring no learning curve. The thumb ramp and finger choil allowed for a secure and comfortable grip. The size initially felt small, but the ergonomics made it feel surprisingly secure in my hand.

The only slight issue I encountered was the back lock’s initial stiffness. However, after a few openings and closings, it smoothed out considerably. There were no other surprises, and the knife performed consistently well.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Spyderco Dragonfly 2 Zome Folding Knife has held up exceptionally well. I carry it almost daily, using it for various everyday tasks, from opening mail to more demanding tasks around the house and garden. The knife remains reliable and consistent.

Despite frequent use, the VG-10 blade has retained its edge impressively. There are no signs of blade play or loosening of the handle scales. The Zome pattern has also remained vibrant and shows no signs of fading or wearing off.

Maintenance has been minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and sharpening. I typically wipe the blade down with a dry cloth after use and occasionally apply a small amount of oil to the pivot point. Sharpening has been straightforward using a ceramic rod.

Compared to my previous EDC knives, the Dragonfly 2 Zome has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and aesthetics. It offers a better balance of size, weight, and cutting ability than many larger, heavier knives I’ve used in the past. It easily outperforms smaller keychain knives due to its comfortable ergonomics and superior blade steel.

Breaking Down the Features of Spyderco Dragonfly 2 Zome Folding Knife

Specifications

  • Blade Length: 58 mm (2.28 inches). This compact blade length makes the knife highly portable and legal to carry in many jurisdictions.
  • Closed Length: 85 mm (3.35 inches). The short closed length allows the knife to disappear in a pocket.
  • Blade Material: VG-10. This Japanese stainless steel offers an excellent balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
  • Overall Length: 143 mm (5.63 inches). Despite its compact size, the overall length provides a useful cutting edge.
  • Handle Material: FRN (Fiberglass-Reinforced Nylon). FRN offers a high strength-to-weight ratio, making the handle both durable and lightweight.
  • Handle Finish: Textured. The textured finish enhances grip and prevents slippage, even in wet conditions.
  • Blade Thickness: 2.5 mm. This provides a good balance of cutting performance and blade strength.
  • Lock Type: Back Lock. The back lock is a strong and reliable locking mechanism that secures the blade open during use.
  • Blade Grind: Full-Flat. This grind enhances slicing performance and makes the knife highly efficient for cutting tasks.
  • Sheath Material: No Sheath. Designed for pocket carry with a pocket clip.
  • Handle Color: Green. The green color of the Zome pattern adds a unique and eye-catching aesthetic.
  • Weight: 1.2 oz. This extremely light weight makes it ideal for everyday carry without adding bulk or discomfort.

These specifications are essential for the overall user experience. The VG-10 blade provides excellent cutting performance and edge retention. The lightweight FRN handle ensures comfortable and discreet carry.

Performance & Functionality

The Spyderco Dragonfly 2 Zome Folding Knife excels at its intended purpose: everyday carry and utility tasks. The blade’s sharpness and geometry make it highly efficient for slicing, cutting, and piercing. It has proven itself as a reliable tool for a variety of tasks.

Its strength lies in its compact size and exceptional cutting ability. The full-flat grind and VG-10 steel create a formidable cutting tool in a small package. A potential weakness is its small size, which may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks requiring a larger blade.

The knife meets and exceeds expectations for a lightweight EDC knife. It provides a comfortable grip, excellent cutting performance, and a striking aesthetic that sets it apart from other knives in its class. It is more than just a tool, it is a statement piece.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Spyderco Dragonfly 2 Zome Folding Knife is exceptional. The materials used are of high quality, and the knife feels solid and well-assembled. The lightweight FRN handle and compact size make it comfortable to carry in a pocket.

The ergonomics are surprisingly good for such a small knife. The thumb ramp, finger choil, and textured handle provide a secure and comfortable grip, even for larger hands. The knife is user-friendly and requires no significant learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Spyderco Dragonfly 2 Zome Folding Knife is built to last. The VG-10 blade is resistant to corrosion and wear. The FRN handle is durable and impact-resistant.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional sharpening will keep the knife in optimal condition for years to come. The knife disassembles easily for thorough cleaning, but requires specialized tools for complete disassembly.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Spyderco Dragonfly 2 Zome Folding Knife does not come with a plethora of accessories. It features a reversible tip-up wire clip for convenient pocket carry. The pocket clip can be easily switched to either side of the handle.

Customization options are limited, but replacement pocket clips are available. Some users may choose to replace the screws with aftermarket options for aesthetic purposes. The knife is designed to be functional and aesthetically pleasing as is, reducing the need for extensive customization.

Pros and Cons of Spyderco Dragonfly 2 Zome Folding Knife

Pros

  • Compact and Lightweight: The Dragonfly 2 is incredibly easy to carry in a pocket without adding bulk. This makes it an ideal EDC knife.
  • Exceptional Blade Steel: VG-10 steel offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. This ensures long-lasting performance.
  • Unique Zome Pattern: The hand-dyed Zome pattern makes each knife a unique work of art. This adds a touch of individuality to your EDC.
  • Ergonomic Design: Despite its small size, the Dragonfly 2 offers a comfortable and secure grip. This enhances usability and control.
  • Reliable Back Lock: The back lock mechanism provides a secure and reliable blade lockup. This provides confidence during use.

Cons

  • Small Size: The compact size may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks. This limits its utility for more demanding applications.
  • Clip Screw Loosening: Some users have reported the pocket clip screw coming loose. This requires the application of thread locker for a secure fit.


Who Should Buy Spyderco Dragonfly 2 Zome Folding Knife?

The Spyderco Dragonfly 2 Zome Folding Knife is perfect for anyone seeking a compact, lightweight, and aesthetically pleasing EDC knife. It is ideal for office workers, urban dwellers, and anyone who needs a small, reliable cutting tool for everyday tasks. It is perfect for light tasks and opening packages.

Those who need a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks should skip this product. Users who prefer larger blades or require a knife for survival situations should consider other options. Those working in construction or needing a knife for self-defense may find it too small.

A must-have modification is applying thread locker to the pocket clip screw to prevent loosening. A sharpening stone or ceramic rod is also recommended for maintaining the blade’s edge. An optional lanyard can be added for enhanced grip and retrieval.

Conclusion on Spyderco Dragonfly 2 Zome Folding Knife

The Spyderco Dragonfly 2 Zome Folding Knife is a remarkable blend of form and function. Its compact size, exceptional blade steel, and unique Zome pattern make it a standout EDC option. Despite its small size, it offers a comfortable grip and excellent cutting performance.

The price of $78.75 is justified considering the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and unique aesthetic. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone who appreciates a well-made, aesthetically pleasing, and highly functional EDC knife. The value proposition is excellent.

I would highly recommend the Spyderco Dragonfly 2 Zome Folding Knife to anyone seeking a compact and stylish EDC knife. Its blend of performance, aesthetics, and portability makes it an excellent choice. Add this gem to your collection and experience the joy of carrying a truly exceptional knife.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top