First Impressions of Spyderco Temperance
The Spyderco Temperance, a classic fixed blade designed by Spyderco co-founder Sal Glesser, is back in a limited-edition Sprint Run. This iteration boasts a gray fiberglass-reinforced-nylon (FRN) handle and a CPM Cru-Wear steel blade. The return of this design immediately piqued my interest, as I’ve always appreciated Spyderco’s commitment to functional design.
I’ve been searching for a robust, all-purpose fixed blade that could handle the rigors of both bushcraft and tactical applications. I wanted something that felt substantial in hand, offered excellent edge retention, and wouldn’t break the bank. I was particularly drawn to the Temperance’s reputation for ergonomic design and its full-flat grind, which promises excellent slicing performance.
Upon unboxing, the Spyderco Temperance immediately impressed me with its solid feel and purposeful design. The gray FRN handle offers a secure and comfortable grip, while the full-flat ground CPM Cru-Wear blade exudes quality. It has a reassuring heft without feeling unwieldy.
Compared to similar fixed blades like the ESEE 4 or the Benchmade Bushcrafter 162, the Temperance offered a unique blend of tactical and outdoor features. The ESEE 4 is known for its bombproof construction, but the Temperance offers a more refined slicing geometry. The Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 is a superb bushcraft knife, but the Temperance’s FRN handle and Cru-Wear steel give it an edge in durability and all-weather performance. I chose the Temperance for its versatility and the promise of superior edge retention with the CPM Cru-Wear steel.
My first impression was one of excitement. The Spyderco Temperance seemed to embody the qualities I was seeking in a fixed blade. I couldn’t wait to put it to the test in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Spyderco Temperance to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Spyderco Temperance on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The terrain was varied, with dense forests, rocky hillsides, and stream crossings. I used the knife for a variety of tasks, including preparing food, building a small shelter, and processing firewood.
The Temperance performed admirably in diverse conditions, from dry and sunny afternoons to damp and chilly evenings. The FRN handle provided a secure grip even when wet. The full-flat grind of the blade made slicing through vegetables and carving wood a breeze.
The knife felt immediately comfortable in hand, and the bilateral “dimples” on the handle provided excellent control. I didn’t experience any hot spots or discomfort during extended use. I was initially surprised by how well the knife balanced in my hand, given its relatively stout blade.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Spyderco Temperance has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I’ve used it for everything from processing game on hunting trips to preparing meals on extended backpacking excursions. It has held up admirably.
The CPM Cru-Wear blade has shown excellent wear resistance. Even after heavy use, the edge remains sharp and requires minimal maintenance. The FRN handle is virtually indestructible, showing no signs of cracking or chipping.
Cleaning the Spyderco Temperance is straightforward. A quick rinse with water and a wipe with a cloth is usually sufficient. I occasionally apply a thin coat of oil to the blade to prevent corrosion, particularly after exposure to saltwater. Compared to previous fixed blades I’ve owned, the Temperance outperforms them in edge retention, grip comfort, and overall durability. It has become my go-to fixed blade for nearly all outdoor activities.
Breaking Down the Features of Spyderco Temperance
Specifications
The Spyderco Temperance boasts impressive specifications that contribute to its overall performance. Its blade steel is CPM Cru-Wear, known for its exceptional wear resistance and toughness. The handle is made of Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon (FRN), offering a lightweight yet incredibly durable grip.
The blade features a full-flat grind, which is excellent for slicing and general cutting tasks. The handle incorporates bilateral “dimples”, enhancing grip and control. The knife comes with a custom-molded Boltaron® sheath, which includes a versatile G-Clip attachment for secure carry. These specifications translate to a knife that is both high-performing and incredibly user-friendly.
Performance & Functionality
The Spyderco Temperance excels in its intended role as a versatile fixed blade. It holds an edge extremely well, thanks to the CPM Cru-Wear steel. The full-flat grind makes it an excellent slicer, ideal for food preparation and processing game.
The Temperance’s strengths lie in its robust construction, comfortable grip, and exceptional edge retention. The only area for improvement might be the sheath retention. It’s secure, but a slightly more aggressive click-in mechanism could offer added peace of mind. Overall, it far exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Spyderco Temperance is excellent. The materials feel premium, and the construction is solid and confidence-inspiring. The knife feels well-balanced in hand.
The ergonomic design of the handle makes the Temperance incredibly comfortable to use, even for extended periods. There’s no real learning curve to using it; it feels natural and intuitive from the start. The grip is secure in both forward and reverse holds.
Durability & Maintenance
The Spyderco Temperance is built to last. The CPM Cru-Wear blade is highly resistant to wear and corrosion. The FRN handle is virtually indestructible.
Maintenance is minimal; regular cleaning and occasional oiling of the blade are sufficient to keep it in top condition. The simple design makes disassembly (if needed) relatively easy.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Spyderco Temperance comes with a custom-molded Boltaron® sheath and a versatile G-Clip attachment. The G-Clip offers multiple carry options, including vertical, horizontal, and diagonal configurations. While there are no readily available aftermarket accessories designed specifically for the Temperance, its utilitarian design makes it adaptable to various lanyards and carry systems.
The sheath is compatible with various MOLLE attachments, allowing for integration with tactical gear. Custom handle scales could potentially be fabricated, although the stock FRN handle is exceptionally durable and comfortable.
Pros and Cons of Spyderco Temperance
Pros
- Exceptional edge retention: The CPM Cru-Wear blade holds an edge for a long time, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
- Ergonomic handle design: The FRN handle with bilateral “dimples” provides a secure and comfortable grip in various conditions.
- Durable construction: The combination of CPM Cru-Wear steel and FRN handle makes the Spyderco Temperance incredibly robust and long-lasting.
- Versatile sheath system: The Boltaron® sheath with G-Clip offers multiple carry options.
- Full-flat grind: The blade geometry excels at slicing and general cutting tasks.
Cons
- Sheath Retention: The sheath retention, while adequate, could be improved for a more secure click-in feel.
- Limited Customization: Aftermarket accessories are limited for this model.
Who Should Buy Spyderco Temperance?
The Spyderco Temperance is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, survivalists, and anyone who needs a reliable and versatile fixed blade. Hunters will appreciate its edge retention and slicing ability for processing game. Campers and backpackers will value its durability and comfortable grip for preparing food and building shelters.
Those who prioritize a truly custom knife with a wide range of aftermarket options might want to look elsewhere. Someone seeking a dedicated bushcraft knife with a thicker spine for batoning might prefer a different design.
A good sharpening stone or system would be a must-have accessory. A length of paracord can be added to the lanyard hole for enhanced grip and retention.
Conclusion on Spyderco Temperance
The Spyderco Temperance is an outstanding fixed blade that combines robust construction with excellent ergonomics and cutting performance. The CPM Cru-Wear blade offers exceptional edge retention. The FRN handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
At a price of $142.50, the Spyderco Temperance offers excellent value for money. The quality of materials, the thoughtful design, and the overall performance justify the price point. I wholeheartedly recommend the Spyderco Temperance to anyone looking for a versatile and dependable fixed blade.
Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or simply appreciate a well-made knife, the Temperance is sure to impress. Add this modern classic to your collection today and experience the difference a quality blade can make!