Spyderco Subway Bowie Knife by Fred Perrin Review

First Impressions of Spyderco Subway Bowie Knife by Fred Perrin

The Spyderco Subway Bowie Knife by Fred Perrin is a collaboration between Spyderco and renowned French knifemaker Fred Perrin. This compact fixed blade is designed for discreet carry and boasts a Bowie-style blade made from LC200N steel, paired with an FRN handle. Its purpose-driven design and reputation for quality make it a standout in the realm of small, tactical knives.

I sought out this knife to fill a specific niche in my gear: a lightweight, easily concealable fixed blade for everyday carry (EDC) and as a backup option during outdoor pursuits. I was particularly drawn to its corrosion resistance, crucial for the humid environments I often find myself in.

Upon unboxing, the Subway Bowie immediately impressed me with its remarkably light weight and the secure feel of the FRN handle. The satin finish on the blade is clean and functional, and the Boltaron sheath provides a snug and secure fit. The blade is sharp right out of the box.

I considered the Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter and the ESEE Izula II, both popular fixed-blade options. However, the Subway Bowie’s compact size, corrosion-resistant steel, and Perrin’s design expertise ultimately swayed my decision. The size and shape really made me want it.

My initial impression was one of excitement; the Spyderco Subway Bowie Knife by Fred Perrin seemed to deliver exactly what I was looking for: a high-quality, discreet, and capable fixed blade. It looks like a great knife.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Spyderco Subway Bowie Knife by Fred Perrin to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Spyderco Subway Bowie Knife by Fred Perrin during a week-long camping and fishing trip in the Ozark Mountains. I primarily used it for food preparation, cutting cordage, and general camp tasks.

The Subway Bowie performed admirably in both wet and dry conditions. The FRN handle provided a secure grip even when my hands were damp from rain or handling fish, and the LC200N steel showed no signs of corrosion despite constant exposure to moisture.

I found the knife surprisingly easy to use despite its small size. The index-finger choil and jimping on the spine provided excellent control, allowing for precise cuts. There were no issues.

The only surprise was how efficiently the Subway Bowie handled larger tasks, like batoning small pieces of firewood; I was very impressed. It was surprisingly strong.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Spyderco Subway Bowie Knife by Fred Perrin has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.

The LC200N steel has proven to be exceptionally resistant to corrosion, even after prolonged exposure to saltwater during a coastal fishing trip. The blade has retained its edge well, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a ceramic rod.

The knife is very easy to clean; I simply rinse it with fresh water and wipe it dry after each use. A drop of oil on the pivot point keeps the action smooth.

Compared to my previous EDC knife, a Spyderco Paramilitary 2, the Subway Bowie offers the convenience and security of a fixed blade in a similarly compact package. It’s the perfect tool for any outdoor tasks.

Breaking Down the Features of Spyderco Subway Bowie Knife by Fred Perrin

Specifications

• The Spyderco Subway Bowie Knife by Fred Perrin features a 2.8-inch blade. This length provides a good balance between cutting power and concealability.
• The overall length is 5.11 inches. This compact size makes it ideal for neck carry or discreet belt carry.
• The blade is crafted from LC200N steel, known for its exceptional corrosion resistance and good edge retention. This is a major selling point for users in humid or marine environments.
• The handle is made from FRN (Fiberglass-Reinforced Nylon), providing a lightweight yet durable and grippy surface. FRN is very important for handling.
• The blade shape is a Bowie-style clip point, which is versatile for piercing and slicing. The shape is perfect for many uses.
• The blade grind is a saber grind, offering a good balance between strength and cutting performance. It also works great for skinning game.
• The blade thickness is 3mm. This provides sufficient strength for most cutting tasks without adding excessive weight.
• It weighs just 2.3 ounces. This ultra-lightweight design is perfect for comfortable everyday carry.

These specifications combine to create a highly functional and practical knife that prioritizes corrosion resistance, light weight, and ease of carry. It’s a well-thought-out design.

Performance & Functionality

The Spyderco Subway Bowie Knife by Fred Perrin excels at its intended purpose: providing a discreet and reliable cutting tool for everyday carry and backup use. The blade is sharp and holds its edge well, making it suitable for a variety of tasks.

The Subway Bowie’s primary strength lies in its exceptional corrosion resistance and comfortable, secure grip. One potential weakness could be its small size for larger tasks, but it handles its size well.

The Subway Bowie exceeds my expectations for a knife of this size and weight. It does what it sets out to do, and it does it well.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, as expected from Spyderco. The LC200N steel and FRN handle feel durable and well-made, and the knife is lightweight and comfortable in hand.

The design is very user-friendly. The index-finger choil, jimping, and lanyard hole all contribute to a secure and controlled grip.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Spyderco Subway Bowie Knife by Fred Perrin should last for many years. The LC200N steel is highly corrosion-resistant, and the FRN handle is tough and durable.

Maintenance is simple; regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that’s required. It’s very easy to maintain.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Spyderco Subway Bowie Knife by Fred Perrin comes with a custom-molded Boltaron sheath and a breakaway ball chain for neck carry. The sheath provides excellent retention and allows for various carry options.

There aren’t many customization options available for this knife, but the included sheath can be easily modified for belt carry or MOLLE attachment. Aftermarket lanyards are also a popular addition.

Pros and Cons of Spyderco Subway Bowie Knife by Fred Perrin

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Who Should Buy Spyderco Subway Bowie Knife by Fred Perrin?

The Spyderco Subway Bowie Knife by Fred Perrin is perfect for individuals seeking a lightweight, discreet, and corrosion-resistant fixed blade for everyday carry, backpacking, hiking, or fishing. This is a great knife for backpackers and fishermen.

This knife may not be the best choice for those who require a larger, more robust knife for heavy-duty tasks. Some other knives may be better.

A quality sharpening stone or ceramic rod would be a must-have accessory for maintaining the blade’s edge. Some users may also want to consider a different carry method, such as a belt clip or MOLLE attachment.

Conclusion on Spyderco Subway Bowie Knife by Fred Perrin

Overall, the Spyderco Subway Bowie Knife by Fred Perrin is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a compact, corrosion-resistant fixed blade. Its exceptional performance, comfortable grip, and discreet design make it a standout in its class.

At $129.75, the price is justified given the high-quality materials, excellent build quality, and Spyderco’s reputation for reliability. This is a great value!

I would definitely recommend the Spyderco Subway Bowie Knife by Fred Perrin to anyone seeking a dependable and discreet EDC fixed blade. Go get one!