First Impressions of Spyderco Military 2
The Spyderco Military 2 isn’t just another folding knife; it’s a legacy reimagined. Spyderco has taken a knife beloved by tactical users and everyday carriers alike and refined it for the modern era. The original Military was a groundbreaking design, introducing powder metallurgy steel to production knives and setting a high bar for tactical folders. I was intrigued by the promise of enhanced ergonomics, a stronger lock, and the ongoing refinement of a design that has already proven its worth.
My journey to the Spyderco Military 2 began with a search for a reliable and robust EDC knife that could handle demanding tasks. I needed a blade that could stand up to regular use in the field, providing a confident grip and a dependable locking mechanism. I’ve always appreciated Spyderco’s dedication to function over flash, and the Military line embodies that principle perfectly.
Upon unboxing, the Spyderco Military 2 immediately impressed me. The G-10 scales felt secure and grippy in hand, and the overall weight was surprisingly light considering the size of the blade. The build quality was exceptional, with smooth action and a rock-solid lockup.
Compared to my Benchmade Adamas folder and Zero Tolerance 0393, the Spyderco Military 2 felt like a more refined tool. While the Adamas is undeniably robust, it can feel bulky for everyday carry. The 0393 is a fantastic knife, but the Military 2’s ergonomics and Compression Lock seemed better suited to my needs.
My initial impression was one of excitement. The Spyderco Military 2 felt like a knife designed for serious use, without sacrificing comfort or carry-ability. The improvements over the original Military were immediately apparent, making this a promising addition to my everyday gear.
Real-World Testing: Putting Spyderco Military 2 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Spyderco Military 2 on a week-long backcountry camping trip in the Pacific Northwest. I used it for everything from preparing food to making feather sticks for fire starting. The knife performed admirably in the damp conditions.
The G-10 scales provided a secure grip even when wet, and the blade retained its edge through heavy use. I found the Compression Lock easy to operate with one hand, even while wearing gloves. There were no unexpected issues with the Military 2 on its first outing; it simply performed as expected.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Spyderco Military 2 has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. The blade has held its edge exceptionally well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain its sharpness. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the G-10 scales.
The Compression Lock continues to function flawlessly, providing a secure and confident lockup. Cleaning is a breeze, and the knife requires minimal maintenance to keep it in top condition. Compared to my previous EDC knives, the Military 2 has exceeded expectations in terms of both performance and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Spyderco Military 2
Specifications
The Spyderco Military 2 boasts several impressive specifications. It features a 4-inch blade, providing ample cutting surface for a variety of tasks. The Spyderco Military 2 has been equipped with the increasingly popular Compression Lock.
The Spyderco Military 2 is manufactured by Spyderco. The product quantity is one.
Performance & Functionality
The Spyderco Military 2 excels in its primary function: cutting. The blade’s geometry and edge retention make it a formidable tool for slicing, chopping, and precision work. The Compression Lock provides a secure and reliable locking mechanism, allowing for confident use in demanding situations. While the Military 2’s larger size might not be ideal for discreet carry in all situations, it’s a worthy compromise for the added capability.
A potential weakness is the relatively thin blade stock, which could be more susceptible to damage during heavy prying tasks. However, for most cutting applications, the Spyderco Military 2 performs flawlessly and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Spyderco Military 2’s design is functional and ergonomic. The G-10 scales provide a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions. The knife’s lightweight construction makes it easy to carry all day without causing discomfort.
The Compression Lock is intuitive and easy to operate with one hand, making it a user-friendly tool for both experienced and novice knife users. While some might find the Military 2’s size intimidating, the overall design promotes confident and controlled use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Spyderco Military 2 is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure that it can withstand years of hard use. The blade’s excellent edge retention reduces the need for frequent sharpening, and the G-10 scales are resistant to wear and tear.
Maintaining the Military 2 is simple; regular cleaning and lubrication of the pivot point are all that’s required to keep it in top condition. The Compression Lock is also relatively easy to disassemble and clean, ensuring long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
While the Spyderco Military 2 doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, its design lends itself well to customization. Aftermarket pocket clips are readily available, allowing users to adjust the carry position to their preference. Some users also choose to replace the scales with custom-made options, further personalizing the knife.
The Spyderco Military 2 is compatible with many aftermarket lanyards and beads, allowing users to add a personal touch and improve grip. While the Military 2 doesn’t require any immediate modifications, the option to customize it further enhances its appeal.
Pros and Cons of Spyderco Military 2
Pros
- Exceptional Ergonomics: The handle design provides a comfortable and secure grip for extended use.
- Rock-Solid Compression Lock: The lockup is incredibly strong and reliable, inspiring confidence during demanding tasks.
- High-Quality Materials: The blade steel and G-10 scales are durable and long-lasting.
- Excellent Edge Retention: The blade holds its sharpness for a long time, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
- Lightweight for its Size: The knife is surprisingly light, making it comfortable to carry all day.
Cons
- Larger Size: The Military 2’s size may not be ideal for discreet carry in all situations.
- Blade Stock Thickness: The relatively thin blade stock might not be suitable for heavy prying tasks.
Who Should Buy Spyderco Military 2?
The Spyderco Military 2 is perfect for tactical users, outdoorsmen, and anyone who appreciates a high-quality, reliable folding knife. It is ideally suited for those who prioritize performance, durability, and ergonomics over ultra-discreet carry. Survivalists, law enforcement, and military personnel will also find the Military 2 to be a valuable tool.
Those who prefer smaller, more pocket-friendly knives might want to skip this product. Someone looking for a dedicated prying tool should also consider other options. A must-have modification for some users might be an aftermarket deep-carry pocket clip for more discreet carry.
Conclusion on Spyderco Military 2
The Spyderco Military 2 is a significant improvement over an already excellent design. Spyderco has successfully refined the original Military, creating a knife that is stronger, more ergonomic, and more reliable. The value proposition is excellent, as the price is justified by the high-quality materials, robust construction, and exceptional performance.
I would personally recommend the Spyderco Military 2 to anyone looking for a top-tier tactical folding knife. It’s a tool that you can rely on in demanding situations, providing a confident grip, a secure lockup, and exceptional cutting performance. Upgrade your EDC today and experience the Spyderco Military 2 difference!