First Impressions of Spyderco Military 2 4in Folding Knife by Sal Glesser
The Spyderco Military 2 4in Folding Knife by Sal Glesser isn’t just another knife; it’s a direct descendant of a legend. Designed by Sal Glesser himself, this knife promises to deliver the pinnacle of utility and strength for military personnel and discerning users alike. The updated design, featuring enhanced ergonomics and a robust locking mechanism, immediately piqued my interest.
I was looking for a reliable, heavy-duty folding knife that could handle demanding tasks in both urban and wilderness environments. I needed something that could easily transition from opening packages and food prep to more demanding tasks like preparing kindling. The Spyderco Military 2 seemed to fit the bill perfectly, with its promise of improved strength and versatile carry options.
My first impression upon unboxing was overwhelmingly positive. The peel-ply textured G-10 scales felt secure and comfortable in my hand. The overall weight felt substantial without being cumbersome, a good balance for everyday carry.
I considered the Benchmade Adamas and the Chris Reeve Sebenza 31 before settling on the Spyderco Military 2. While the Adamas offers incredible strength, the Military 2 seemed more refined and EDC-friendly. The Sebenza is undoubtedly a premium knife, but the Spyderco’s price point and readily available parts made it a more practical choice for my needs.
Initially, I was excited. The Spyderco Military 2 looked and felt like a serious tool, promising exceptional performance and durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Spyderco Military 2 4in Folding Knife by Sal Glesser to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Spyderco Military 2 on a week-long backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The knife was used for various tasks, from preparing food and cutting cordage to whittling and light batoning. It performed admirably in all conditions, even after a day spent hiking in steady rain.
The G-10 scales offered excellent grip, even when wet. Opening and closing the knife with the Compression Lock was intuitive and secure. There were no issues or surprises after the initial use; it felt like a natural extension of my hand.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Spyderco Military 2 continues to impress. The blade has held its edge remarkably well, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a ceramic rod. There are no signs of blade play or lock failure.
The G-10 scales show minimal wear, and the pocket clip remains firmly attached. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick rinse with water and a drop of oil on the pivot point keeps it functioning smoothly. This knife outperforms my previous EDC knife, a Gerber Applegate-Fairbairn folder, in terms of both cutting performance and overall durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Spyderco Military 2 4in Folding Knife by Sal Glesser
Specifications
The Spyderco Military 2 features a 4-inch blade, providing ample cutting surface for a variety of tasks. This length strikes a good balance between portability and functionality.
The knife’s closed length is 5.51 inches, making it easy to carry in a pocket or on a belt. Its slim profile further enhances its concealability.
Designed by Spyderco co-founder Sal Glesser, the Military 2 reflects decades of experience in knife design. This expertise is evident in its thoughtful design and refined ergonomics.
It is categorized as a Folding Blade knife. This type is convenient for everyday carry and provides easy access to a sharp cutting tool.
The knife has an Overall Length of 9.51 inches, providing ample reach when needed. This length also contributes to a comfortable grip for most users.
The blade boasts a Clip Point shape, which is versatile and well-suited for piercing and slicing. This shape allows for precise control during delicate cutting tasks.
The handle material is G10, a durable and lightweight composite that offers excellent grip. The peel-ply texture further enhances its tactile feel.
The blade thickness is 0.145 inches, providing a good balance between cutting performance and durability. This thickness allows for both fine slicing and more demanding cutting tasks.
The knife utilizes a Compression Lock, known for its strength and ease of use. This locking mechanism provides a secure and reliable blade lock-up.
It is a New condition product, ensuring the highest quality and performance. The knife is manufactured to exacting standards.
The blade features a Full-Flat Grind, which enhances its slicing ability and provides a clean, consistent cut. This grind contributes to the knife’s overall cutting performance.
It does Not include a Sheath Material, as it is designed for pocket carry. The pocket clip allows for secure and convenient carry.
The knife weighs 4.4 oz, a lightweight design for comfortable everyday carry. This weight minimizes bulk and ensures that the knife is not a burden to carry.
It is designed with an Ambidextrous hand orientation, making it suitable for both right- and left-handed users. The pocket clip can be configured for either side.
Performance & Functionality
The Spyderco Military 2 excels in its intended role as a high-performance utility knife. Its 4-inch blade is perfectly sized for a wide range of tasks, offering exceptional control and cutting power. The Compression Lock is incredibly strong and easy to operate with one hand, even with gloves on.
The blade’s full-flat grind slices effortlessly through various materials, from cardboard and rope to food and wood. While not designed for heavy batoning, it can handle light wood processing tasks with ease. This knife meets and exceeds my expectations for a high-quality EDC folder.
Design & Ergonomics
The Spyderco Military 2’s design prioritizes function and ergonomics. The G-10 scales provide a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions. The handle is well-contoured, fitting naturally in the hand.
The knife’s lightweight construction makes it easy to carry all day without fatigue. The overall design is user-friendly, with an intuitive locking mechanism and comfortable grip.
Durability & Maintenance
The Spyderco Military 2 is built to last. Its high-quality materials and robust construction ensure long-term durability. The blade steel is known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. With proper care, this knife will last for many years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Spyderco Military 2 does not come with any additional accessories beyond the standard pocket clip. However, there are numerous aftermarket options available for customization.
Many users choose to replace the pocket clip with a different style or material. Lanyard beads and custom scales are also popular modifications. The knife is compatible with most standard-sized pocket clips and lanyard accessories.
Pros and Cons of Spyderco Military 2 4in Folding Knife by Sal Glesser
Pros
- Exceptional Ergonomics: The G-10 handle is comfortable and secure, even in wet conditions.
- Strong Compression Lock: Provides a reliable and easy-to-use locking mechanism.
- Versatile Blade Shape: The clip point blade is well-suited for a wide range of tasks.
- Lightweight and Portable: Easy to carry all day without fatigue.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand demanding use.
Cons
- The price of $225.00 might be a barrier for some buyers.
- The aggressive G-10 texture can be abrasive on clothing over time.
Who Should Buy Spyderco Military 2 4in Folding Knife by Sal Glesser?
The Spyderco Military 2 is perfect for military personnel, law enforcement officers, and anyone who needs a reliable, high-performance folding knife. It’s also a great choice for serious outdoorsmen, survivalists, and EDC enthusiasts.
Those who prefer a smaller, less aggressive knife might want to skip this product. Also, anyone on a very tight budget may find the price prohibitive.
A must-have accessory is a quality sharpening stone or ceramic rod to maintain the blade’s edge. A paracord lanyard can also enhance grip and provide additional functionality.
Conclusion on Spyderco Military 2 4in Folding Knife by Sal Glesser
The Spyderco Military 2 4in Folding Knife by Sal Glesser is an outstanding knife that lives up to its legendary reputation. It combines exceptional ergonomics, a strong locking mechanism, and a versatile blade into a durable and reliable package. The price is justified by its performance and long-term value.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Spyderco Military 2 to anyone looking for a top-tier EDC folder. It’s a knife that you can depend on in any situation. Invest in quality, invest in the Spyderco Military 2 – you won’t regret it!