Spyderco Byrd Meadowlark 2 Black Lockback Knife

The Spyderco Byrd Meadowlark 2 Black Lockback (BY04PBK2) is a compact Byrd folder with a 2.9-inch 8Cr13MoV blade. It closes to about 3.9 inches and opens to 6.85, so it fits comfortably in a front pocket. Byrd is Spyderco's value line, made in China to Spyderco designs.

The black FRN handle is light and has a textured surface for grip. A back lock secures the blade, and the oval Byrd Hole opens it with one thumb. The plain satin edge is easy to keep sharp with a basic stone. Its 6.85-inch open length still leaves enough handle for a full grip.

A four-position clip lets you set the carry the way you like. It makes a good first Spyderco-designed knife, or a backup for the glove box. 8Cr13MoV can spot if left wet, so dry it after a day on the water. It is light enough to clip to a pair of shorts without them sagging. The larger Cara Cara 2 and other lockbacks are in our lockback knives.

• 2.9-inch 8Cr13MoV blade
• Black FRN handle
• Back lock
• Compact 3.9 inches closed