Spyderco Endela Lightweight Wharncliffe K390 Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Spyderco Endela Lightweight Wharncliffe K390 Folding Knife

The Spyderco Endela Lightweight Wharncliffe K390 Folding Knife is not just another blade in the vast ocean of folding knives; it’s a statement. This mid-sized marvel from Spyderco boasts a unique Wharncliffe blade crafted from high-end K390 steel, promising exceptional cutting performance and edge retention. Combined with its lightweight FRN handle in the signature K390 blue, it’s a knife that immediately grabs your attention, blending functionality with a distinctive aesthetic.

I’ve always been on the hunt for the perfect EDC (Everyday Carry) knife that balances size, weight, and cutting performance. Many knives are either too bulky for comfortable carry or lack the blade geometry for intricate cutting tasks. The Spyderco Endela Lightweight Wharncliffe K390 appeared to be the solution, promising both a comfortable size and a highly functional blade shape.

Upon unboxing, my first impression was one of refined simplicity. The knife is incredibly light, thanks to the FRN handle, yet feels solid and well-constructed. The blade, with its full-flat grind and distinct Wharncliffe profile, looked razor-sharp and ready for action.

I considered the Benchmade Griptilian and the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 before settling on the Endela. The Griptilian, while excellent, lacked the unique blade shape I desired, and the Paramilitary 2, while a favorite of many, felt slightly too large for my everyday carry needs. The Endela seemed to strike the perfect balance. I was immediately impressed by the Spyderco Endela Lightweight Wharncliffe K390 Folding Knife and eager to put it to the test.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Spyderco Endela Lightweight Wharncliffe K390 Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real-world test was during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The Spyderco Endela Lightweight Wharncliffe K390 Folding Knife served as my primary cutting tool for everything from food preparation to crafting feather sticks for fire starting. I was also using it to carve tent stakes from fallen limbs.

The K390 steel performed admirably, maintaining its edge even after prolonged use in damp conditions. The Wharncliffe blade shape proved incredibly versatile, allowing for precise cuts when preparing food and powerful, controlled slices when working with wood. There were no issues whatsoever, and it felt like a natural extension of my hand.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Spyderco Endela Lightweight Wharncliffe K390 Folding Knife has become an indispensable part of my everyday gear. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to more demanding tasks like cutting rope and shaping wood. The knife’s durability is impressive, with no signs of blade play or loosening of the handle scales.

The K390 steel, while requiring a bit more care to prevent corrosion, holds its edge exceptionally well. Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe down after use and occasional sharpening are all that’s needed. Compared to my previous EDC knives, the Spyderco Endela Lightweight Wharncliffe K390 Folding Knife outperforms them in both cutting performance and edge retention.

Breaking Down the Features of Spyderco Endela Lightweight Wharncliffe K390 Folding Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 3.42 inches. This blade length offers a good balance between cutting power and ease of carry.
• Closed Length: 4.69 inches. This compact size makes it comfortable to carry in a pocket or on a belt.
• Blade Material: K390 MICROCLEAN. This high-end tool steel provides exceptional wear resistance and toughness.
• Serrated: Plain Edge. The plain edge maximizes cutting efficiency and control.
• Overall Length: 8.02 inches. Provides ample reach for various cutting tasks.
• Blade Shape: Wharncliffe. Offers excellent control and precise cutting capabilities.
• Handle Material: FRN (Fiberglass-Reinforced Nylon). Provides a lightweight and durable grip.
• Blade Finish: Stainless Steel. Enhances corrosion resistance.
• Blade Thickness: 3 mm. Offers a good balance between strength and cutting ability.
• Lock Type: Back Lock. A reliable and secure locking mechanism.
• Blade Grind: Full-Flat. Provides optimal cutting performance.
• Sheath Material: No Sheath. Designed for pocket or clip carry.
• Handle Color: Blue. The signature blue color of the K390 family of knives.
• Weight: 3.2 oz. Extremely lightweight for comfortable everyday carry.

These specifications translate to a knife that is both highly functional and easy to carry. The K390 steel ensures exceptional cutting performance, while the lightweight FRN handle makes it comfortable to use for extended periods.

Performance & Functionality

The Spyderco Endela Lightweight Wharncliffe K390 Folding Knife excels in its primary function: cutting. The Wharncliffe blade shape allows for precise and controlled cuts, making it ideal for tasks like food preparation, whittling, and opening packages. The K390 steel holds an edge exceptionally well, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.

The knife’s strengths lie in its cutting performance, lightweight design, and secure back lock mechanism. One area that could be improved is the corrosion resistance of the K390 steel. The Spyderco Endela Lightweight Wharncliffe K390 Folding Knife meets and exceeds my expectations for an EDC knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent. The FRN handle is lightweight yet durable, and the Bi-Directional Texturing provides a secure grip even in wet conditions. The knife feels comfortable in hand, and the blade deploys smoothly and locks securely. There is minimal learning curve; the knife is intuitive to use and requires no special techniques.

Durability & Maintenance

The Spyderco Endela Lightweight Wharncliffe K390 Folding Knife is built to last. The K390 steel is known for its exceptional wear resistance, and the FRN handle is highly resistant to impact and abrasion. Maintenance is relatively simple. The blade should be cleaned and dried after use to prevent corrosion, and occasional sharpening will be needed to maintain its edge.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Spyderco Endela Lightweight Wharncliffe K390 Folding Knife does not come with many accessories beyond the standard pocket clip. Customization options are limited, but aftermarket pocket clips are available. It is compatible with standard Spyderco pocket clips and lanyards.

Pros and Cons of Spyderco Endela Lightweight Wharncliffe K390 Folding Knife

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Spyderco Endela Lightweight Wharncliffe K390 Folding Knife?

The Spyderco Endela Lightweight Wharncliffe K390 Folding Knife is perfect for: EDC enthusiasts, knife collectors, and anyone who values a lightweight, high-performance cutting tool. It is also a great choice for those who appreciate a unique blade shape and exceptional edge retention.

This knife is not ideal for: Individuals who live in extremely humid environments and are unwilling to maintain the blade, or those who prefer heavier, more substantial knives. A high-quality knife oil specifically designed for tool steels is a must-have accessory.

Conclusion on Spyderco Endela Lightweight Wharncliffe K390 Folding Knife

The Spyderco Endela Lightweight Wharncliffe K390 Folding Knife is a top-tier EDC knife that delivers exceptional cutting performance in a lightweight and comfortable package. The price is justified by the quality of the materials, the performance of the K390 steel, and the overall durability of the knife.

I would highly recommend this knife to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile cutting tool. It’s a knife that you can depend on for years to come. Add this exceptional blade to your collection today!