Spyderco Harpy Clipit Stainless Hawkbill Knife

The Spyderco Harpy Stainless Hawkbill (C08P) is a 2.75-inch plain-edge hawkbill in VG-10 steel with a stainless steel handle. A hawkbill curves down at the tip like a talon, so pulling the knife toward you hooks material and drags it into the edge. That shape is useful for cutting rope, carpet, linoleum, drywall paper, and plastic strapping. Its compact size makes it easy to carry every day.

The plain edge gives clean, controlled cuts and is easier to sharpen than a serrated hawkbill. VG-10 is a Japanese stainless steel with cobalt, known for a keen edge and good rust resistance. The stainless handle is slim and very durable, and it carries a pocket clip and lanyard hole. The pointed tip of the hawkbill also works for scoring and stripping wire insulation. Steel handles are slimmer than synthetic ones, so the Harpy rides thin in a pocket.

A back lock holds the blade open while you pull through tough material, and the Round Hole lets one thumb open it. The Harpy has been part of Spyderco's line since the early 1990s and is built in Seki, Japan. Sharpen the inside curve with a round or tapered rod rather than a flat stone. Pull cuts toward the body only when your free hand and legs are clear of the blade path. A lanyard through the hole helps you keep hold of a steel handle when your hands are wet. The serrated Harpy and more lockbacks are in our lockback knives.

• 2.75-inch plain-edge VG-10 hawkbill
• Stainless steel handle
• Back lock
• Made in Japan