What Makes Spyderco Lil ‘ Native Stand Out?
The Spyderco Lil ‘ Native is a masterclass in compact cutting performance. Manufactured by Spyderco, this knife takes the essence of the iconic Native 5 and shrinks it into a more pocket-friendly and legally-compliant size. This new iteration utilizes Spyderco‘s proprietary CPM SPY27 blade steel, known for its impressive balance of corrosion resistance, toughness, and edge retention. I decided to take a closer look, because I was looking for a high-quality, durable EDC blade that I could carry anywhere, especially places with strict knife laws.
I’ve been carrying larger knives for years, but increasingly found them cumbersome in urban environments. I needed something discreet and practical without sacrificing performance. My initial experience unboxing the Lil ‘ Native was impressive; the knife felt solid and well-made, with a satisfying weight for its size, while the peel-ply textured G-10 scales provided a secure grip. The cobalt blue color of the scales adds a touch of style, distinguishing it from more utilitarian knives.
Compared to my Benchmade Mini Griptilian and my Kershaw Leek, the Spyderco Lil ‘ Native immediately stood out. The Mini Griptilian is slightly larger and less discreet, while the Leek, while slim, lacks the robust feel of the Lil ‘ Native. I chose the Lil ‘ Native because it seemed to offer the best compromise between size, strength, and cutting performance, and the advanced SPY27 steel was a major draw. My first impression was excitement – this seemed like the perfect EDC knife for my needs, and the quality was evident from the moment I held it.
Real-World Testing: Putting Spyderco Lil ‘ Native to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Spyderco Lil ‘ Native extensively during a week-long camping trip in the Pacific Northwest. This involved everything from preparing food and whittling kindling to cutting rope and opening packages. The weather was predictably damp, providing a good test of the knife’s corrosion resistance. The ergonomics of the handle were comfortable, even with prolonged use.
The knife performed exceptionally well in the wet conditions. The SPY27 steel showed no signs of corrosion, and the G-10 scales provided a reliable grip even with wet hands. I also didn’t need a lot of time getting used to it, as the compression lock was easy to actuate and the blade deployed smoothly. After my first use, I was impressed with the Lil ‘ Native‘s cutting ability and ease of carry, but I did notice some minor lock stick initially, which I hoped would resolve with use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Spyderco Lil ‘ Native has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. The blade has held its edge remarkably well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain sharpness. There have been no signs of significant wear and tear on the blade or handle. The overall build quality feels robust and confidence-inspiring.
Cleaning and maintaining the Lil ‘ Native is straightforward due to its open-backed construction. This allows for easy removal of debris and prevents the build-up of dirt and grime. The knife outperforms my previous EDC knives in terms of edge retention and corrosion resistance. I have been thoroughly impressed by the Lil ‘ Native and the SPY27 steel, and I’ve come to rely on it as my primary everyday carry knife.
Breaking Down the Features of Spyderco Lil ‘ Native
Specifications
- The Spyderco Lil ‘ Native features a 2.5-inch blade crafted from CPM SPY27 steel. This advanced alloy, enhanced by the Crucible Particle Metallurgy process, offers an outstanding balance of corrosion resistance, toughness, and edge retention.
- The knife has a full-flat grind which maximizes cutting performance. Its overall length is 6.27 inches and it weighs 2.4 ounces, making it incredibly easy to carry.
- The handle is constructed from peel-ply textured G-10 scales in Spyderco‘s signature cobalt blue. The internal liners are stainless steel, which provide strength and support for the Compression Lock mechanism.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the Lil ‘ Native‘s real-world performance. The SPY27 steel means less frequent sharpening and increased resistance to rust, while the compact size and lightweight design enhance everyday carry comfort. The full-flat grind makes the knife an excellent slicer.
Performance & Functionality
The Spyderco Lil ‘ Native excels at its core function: cutting. The SPY27 blade is incredibly sharp and holds its edge well, making it suitable for a variety of tasks. It performs exceptionally well in both controlled environments and demanding outdoor settings.
The knife’s strengths lie in its compact size, robust construction, and excellent cutting performance. A minor weakness is the potential for lock stick, although this typically resolves with break-in. It has absolutely exceeded my expectations for an EDC knife of this size.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lil ‘ Native‘s design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The peel-ply textured G-10 scales provide a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions. The knife feels solid and well-balanced in the hand.
The Compression Lock is easy to operate with one hand, and the open-backed construction simplifies cleaning. There is a slight learning curve to mastering the lock, but once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature. The ergonomics are well thought out, making the knife comfortable to use for extended periods.
Durability & Maintenance
The Spyderco Lil ‘ Native is built to last. The SPY27 steel is highly resistant to corrosion, and the G-10 scales are incredibly durable. With proper care, this knife should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning and occasional stropping of the blade are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. The open-backed design allows for easy access to all parts of the knife, making cleaning a breeze.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lil ‘ Native does not come with many accessories, focusing on the core functionality of the knife itself. However, there are numerous aftermarket options available. These include custom scales and pocket clips.
The knife is compatible with standard Spyderco pocket clips, allowing for easy customization of carry options. Some users might also opt for aftermarket lanyards or beads to personalize their knife. While no optics can be added (obviously), the customization lies in optimizing carry and grip preferences.
Pros and Cons of Spyderco Lil ‘ Native
Pros
- Exceptional Edge Retention: The CPM SPY27 steel holds an edge for a remarkably long time, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
- Compact and Pocket-Friendly: The Lil ‘ Native‘s small size makes it easy to carry discreetly in any pocket, without feeling bulky or cumbersome.
- Durable Construction: The G-10 scales and stainless steel liners provide excellent durability, ensuring the knife can withstand daily use and abuse.
- Secure Grip: The peel-ply texture on the G-10 scales provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet or slippery conditions.
- Easy Maintenance: The open-backed design makes cleaning and maintenance simple and straightforward.
Cons
- Lock Stick: Some users may experience minor lock stick initially, although this typically resolves with use.
- Price: At $165.00, the Lil ‘ Native is relatively expensive compared to some other EDC knives of similar size.
Who Should Buy Spyderco Lil ‘ Native?
The Spyderco Lil ‘ Native is perfect for anyone looking for a high-quality, compact, and reliable EDC knife. It’s ideal for:
- Urban professionals who need a discreet and legally-compliant cutting tool.
- Outdoor enthusiasts who value a lightweight and durable knife for camping, hiking, and other activities.
- Knife collectors who appreciate Spyderco‘s innovative designs and high-quality materials.
Those who prefer larger knives or require a heavy-duty tool for demanding tasks might want to consider other options. Someone primarily needing a knife for batoning wood, for example, would find this unsuitable. A must-have accessory is a high-quality sharpening strop to maintain the blade’s razor-sharp edge.
Conclusion on Spyderco Lil ‘ Native
The Spyderco Lil ‘ Native is a truly exceptional EDC knife that delivers outstanding performance in a compact package. The CPM SPY27 steel provides excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance, while the G-10 scales offer a secure and comfortable grip. The knife’s design and construction are top-notch, making it a reliable and durable tool for everyday use.
The price is justified by the quality of materials and craftsmanship. While it might be relatively expensive compared to some other EDC knives, the Lil ‘ Native offers a level of performance and durability that is well worth the investment.
I would absolutely recommend the Spyderco Lil ‘ Native to anyone looking for a high-quality, compact EDC knife. It’s a versatile and reliable tool that will serve you well in a variety of situations. Add one to your cart today and experience the difference!