And Spyderco is here! Yes, today we are going to talk about Spyderco knives. Exciting, right? Spyderco has been one of those names that have been on every knife lover’s mouth. And for all the good reasons. Let’s go ahead and prove that.
Spyderco has a very rich legacy being continued by great knives time and again. We will look at Paramilitary 2 and Para 3, the two best and upgraded versions of the original Paramilitary. Even though nothing can replace the original, there are a few features that need to be updated with time to move past the old-school versions.
So, we will look at the Para 2 Vs Para 3 comparison in detail with their specifications, key differences, and similarities and decide which one would be the best for you.
Spyderco Paramilitary 2
Key Features
- Good for EDC.
- Steel blade.
- Fiberglass handle.
- Has a finger ring if you want to cut something in reverse.
- Good for camping, kayaking, or any wildlife adventures.
While the knife has the name “Paramilitary” you will find more civilians use this! After all, the knife is a lightweight and foldable knife made for EDC.
You can take it on your camping, kayaking, or any other trips that you are planning to do. While the knife may look small, it still has 3.42 inches of pure steel blade with a drop-point edge. If you are using this for cutting steak for your camping food for example, then you can do that quite easily.
Spyderco Paramilitary 3
Key Features
- 2.92 inches blade.
- CTS BD1N stainless steel-made blade.
- FRN handle.
- Smaller and lighter.
- Suitable for camping.
When you go to the cinema to watch a sequel of a movie, you hope that it will live up to your expectations and deliver more than the first one. Did Paramilitary 3 do that?
Well, technically speaking, they did. Maybe for some, they didn’t. But they did introduce a firmer and overall taller blade to help you cut with more pressure. Which makes it an okay choice for survival-craft even.
It also uses CTS BD1N stainless steel to create a sharp blade. But the knife blade is smaller than before. If you are not okay with a 2.92-inch blade, then this isn’t it for you.
Specs
| Specs | Sebenza 21 | Sebenza 31 |
|---|---|---|
| Handle Material | Fiberglass | Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon |
| Blade Material | Stainless Steel | CTS BD1N stainless steel |
| Blade Length | 3.42 Inches | 2.92 Inches |
| Dimensions | 6.5 x 2.5 x 1 inches | 7.27 x 1 x 0.75 inches |
| Weight | 4.8 ounces | 4 ounces |
| Blade Edge | Drop point | Flat |
Spyderco Paramilitary 2 VS 3 – Differences
The most crucial part of comparing both Paramilitary Vs Para 3 is to know the basic as well as important differences between both the models to be able to make a better and fair decision about which one is the best knife for you. So let us look at the key differences between Para 2 Vs Para 3:
Size & Dimensions
The most important and major difference that exists between these two knives is of size. The blade length of Para 2 is 3.42 inches which is comparatively very big whereas the blade length of Para 3 is only 2.92 inches.
The handle length of the Para 2 is easily around 4.8 inches, making it a great fit for large hands. Hence, it is clear that the Para 2 is quite a big knife whereas the Paramilitary 3 is a much more compact version.
Weight
After size, it is important to know how much the knives weigh. Considering the size of the Para 2, it is naturally heavier weighing around 4.8 ounces whereas the Para 3 weighs somewhere around 4 ounces. Clearly, the Paramilitary 2 weighs more than the Para 3.
Spyderco Paramilitary 2 VS 3 – Similarities
As we have seen the two most important points of differences between the two, now let us take a look at what makes these two knives alike and yet highly competitive.
Locking Mechanism
Both the Spyderco Paramilitary knives have the same locking mechanism which is the Compression Lock System. Compression lock, being one of the best locking systems, provides a quick, lightweight, safe, and fun mechanism for both knives which is the cherry on top!
Ergonomics
Both the Spyderco Knives are easy to use and handle, with great performance, good grip, and well-built body designs. The ergonomics are super amazing with both knives.
Reliability
Spyderco is known for its reliability. Both knives provide the same high-end, reliable performance with great performance that too followed by their respective new features in much more compact versions.
Conclusion
We talked about both the Spyderco knives in detail and now it is time for you to decide as to which knife is the one that you are going to choose. Well, both the knives are brilliant in their own ways carrying the legacy of the Spyderco family.
If you want a compact version, then you must check the Paramilitary 3. However, if you are looking for a bigger option, then Para 2 would be the perfect fit for you. Choose wisely!
