Spyderco Para Military 2 Black G10 Folding Knife

The Spyderco Para Military 2 Black G-10 (C81GP2) has a 3.42-inch CPM S45VN blade and a black G-10 handle, made in Golden, Colorado. The Para Military 2 is one of Spyderco's most popular knives, often recommended as a do-everything folder for work, hunting, and daily carry. It opens to about 8.3 inches while weighing well under 4 ounces.

Its lock is the Compression Lock, which Spyderco first used on the original Para Military. Rather than sitting along the side of the handle like a liner lock, the spring bar works from the spine, and you release it by pressing a tab in the spine notch. That placement means the hand is never in front of the blade during closing, and the lock is strong and wear resistant. Many owners learn to close it smoothly with one hand after a little practice.

CPM S45VN is Crucible's update to S30V and S35VN, with niobium and nitrogen added for better corrosion resistance and easier sharpening. The full flat ground blade slices well, and a finger choil lets you choke up for detail cuts. A four-position clip lets you carry it tip-up or tip-down on either side, and skeletonized liners keep the handle stiff. Other Para Military 2 versions and Spyderco folders are in our folding knives.

• 3.42-inch CPM S45VN blade
• Black G-10 handle
• Compression Lock
• Four-position clip