Spyderco Temperance Cpm Cru-wear Review

What Makes Spyderco Temperance Cpm Cru-wear Stand Out?

The Spyderco Temperance Cpm Cru-wear is a fixed blade knife designed by Spyderco co-founder Sal Glesser, resurrected as a limited-edition Sprint Run. Its return showcases a gray Fiberglass-Reinforced-Nylon (FRN) handle and a full-flat-ground blade crafted from CPM Cru-Wear steel. This knife is more than just a cutting tool; it is a blend of classic design and modern materials, offering a balance of toughness and wear resistance, making it a standout option for outdoor enthusiasts and tactical users.

I’ve been searching for a reliable fixed blade knife that could withstand demanding field use while maintaining a razor-sharp edge. Many knives claim to be tough, but few deliver on both edge retention and overall durability, the Spyderco Temperance Cpm Cru-wear aims to bridge that gap. Unboxing it, the immediate impression was one of quality; the gray FRN handle felt solid and grippy, and the full-flat-ground blade had a keen edge right out of the box.

Compared to my Ontario RAT-7 and Benchmade Bushcrafter, the Spyderco Temperance Cpm Cru-wear seemed to offer a more refined balance. The RAT-7 is a brute, while the Bushcrafter prioritizes classic aesthetics; the Temperance appeared to combine practicality with modern steel technology. I chose it for the promise of superior wear resistance and toughness from its CPM Cru-Wear steel, hoping it would stand up to more demanding tasks.

My initial reaction was excitement mixed with a touch of anticipation, I was eager to test its real-world performance to see if it lived up to its reputation. The handle ergonomics and blade geometry suggested a versatile tool, but the proof would be in the field testing.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Spyderco Temperance Cpm Cru-wear to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test was during a week-long backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains, offering a diverse range of tasks to evaluate the Spyderco Temperance Cpm Cru-wear. I used it for everything from food preparation and feathering sticks for fire starting to cutting rope and notching wood for shelter building. The humid conditions of the dense forest provided a good challenge, testing the grip in wet conditions.

The knife performed admirably in all conditions; the FRN handle provided a secure grip even when wet, and the blade retained its edge remarkably well. It felt natural in hand, requiring little adjustment to its balance or cutting style. A minor surprise was how well the knife handled fine tasks, despite its robust build; the full-flat grind allowed for controlled slices and intricate work.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including a hunting trip and multiple camping excursions, the Spyderco Temperance Cpm Cru-wear continues to impress. There are minimal signs of wear, with only minor scuffing on the blade coating and sheath. Cleaning the knife is straightforward; a quick wipe down after use and occasional oiling of the blade are all that’s needed.

Compared to other fixed blade knives I’ve owned, the Spyderco Temperance Cpm Cru-wear stands out for its edge retention and overall durability. The Cru-Wear steel holds an edge far longer than my knives with 1095 steel, and the FRN handle has proven more resistant to impacts and temperature changes than Micarta handles. It has exceeded my expectations, becoming a go-to tool for outdoor adventures.

Breaking Down the Features of Spyderco Temperance Cpm Cru-wear

Specifications

• Blade Material: CPM Cru-Wear. This steel offers an exceptional balance of wear resistance and toughness, making it ideal for demanding cutting tasks.
• Handle Material: Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon (FRN). The FRN handle provides a lightweight yet durable grip, even in wet or slippery conditions.
• Blade Grind: Full-Flat Grind. The full-flat grind offers excellent slicing performance and reduces drag during cutting.
• Blade Length: N/A (Specific length not provided in the initial details). Knowing the blade length would provide additional context for its intended use-cases.
• Sheath: Boltaron with G-Clip. This custom-molded sheath offers secure carry and versatile attachment options.

These specifications matter because they directly influence the knife’s performance and reliability. Cru-Wear steel ensures long-lasting sharpness, while the FRN handle offers a secure and comfortable grip. The full-flat grind maximizes cutting efficiency, making the Spyderco Temperance Cpm Cru-wear a highly capable tool in various scenarios.

Performance & Functionality

The Spyderco Temperance Cpm Cru-wear performs exceptionally well, excelling at a variety of tasks. Its balance, edge retention, and comfortable grip make it a pleasure to use, even during extended periods. The knife’s strength lies in its durability and edge retention; it can withstand significant abuse and still maintain a sharp cutting edge.

The only potential weakness is the FRN handle might not offer the same aesthetic appeal as a wood or Micarta handle for some users, though it exceeds in practical grip and resilience. It definitely meets and, in many ways, exceeds expectations for a durable and high-performing fixed blade knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The Spyderco Temperance Cpm Cru-wear features a well-thought-out design, prioritizing both function and comfort. The FRN handle is lightweight and provides a secure grip, even with wet or gloved hands. The Spyderco signature “dimples” enhance grip and offer pivot points for changing grip styles.

The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable and controlled cutting experience, minimizing fatigue during prolonged use. There is minimal learning curve; the knife feels natural in hand and is easy to use for both experienced and novice knife users.

Durability & Maintenance

The Spyderco Temperance Cpm Cru-wear is built to last, with high-quality materials and construction. The Cru-Wear steel is highly resistant to wear and corrosion, while the FRN handle can withstand impacts and extreme temperatures. It is easy to maintain; regular cleaning and occasional oiling are sufficient to keep it in top condition.

The robust design and quality materials suggest that the Spyderco Temperance Cpm Cru-wear will provide years of reliable service. Minor scratches on the blade coating are possible with heavy use, but they do not affect the knife’s performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Spyderco Temperance Cpm Cru-wear comes with a custom-molded Boltaron sheath with a G-Clip attachment. While there are no specific Spyderco-branded accessories mentioned, the G-Clip allows for versatile carry options on belts, packs, or gear. Aftermarket sheaths are available, allowing users to customize their carry style.

The knife’s standard design doesn’t easily lend itself to significant modification; however, the focus is more on its inherent performance and durability than extensive customization. Aftermarket sharpening systems are also a worthwhile investment to maintain the edge of the CPM Cru-Wear blade.

Pros and Cons of Spyderco Temperance Cpm Cru-wear