Pros: Blade Sharpness, Lock Type, Handle Material, Overall Quality, Pocket Clip, Ease of Opening, Handle Feel, Weight, Lock Ease of Use, Blade Material
Cons: None
Incredibly solid, tight, high quality knife
I have owned the Spyderco C41GP5 Native5 for about a month now, and it is really one of the best production knives for the money I've ever used. The first thing I noticed is just how quality the knife feels in your hand - its thick blade, absolutely unbudging blade lock when deployed, super smooth operation, tight seams, sub flush precisely counter sunk screw holes and ingenious ergonomic grip are second to none. Match that list of impressive accomplishments with a full flat ground blade made out of nitrogen treated S35V steel and this knife HAS to be at the top of any discerning knife aficionado's best ever list for EDC production knives. I have read complaints the knife opens too slowly, but I have not found that to be the case at all. The trademark Spyderco thumb hole is perfectly placed for my hands and I can easily, even effortlessly, open the knife with either hand. Though I'm right handed and prefer to keep the very classy polished steel pocket clip in its default factory position, I did switch it and then switch it back and the screw holes on both sides are incredibly tight and look to be able to handle dozens of changes of position if I chose to do so (which I won't need to again, but it's nice to know it would hold up if I ever felt the urge to experiment again). I can easily open or close the knife with one hand, and I love the confidence I have in the blade's unwavering position - the ingenious spine lock is just brute! Also, the knife is such a joy to hold that I really love employing the "old school" method of two handed opening, reminiscent of the first time I experienced the Buck 110 lock back on a 1970's hunting trip! One thing that is a little concerning is the belly of the blade does seem to contact the inner steel spine. In several weeks of mostly household use (box, apple, rope, tape cutting and, yes, even some no-no abusive prying of screws and window trim), I have not noticed the blade dull one degree from the cutting power it had right out of the box I have heard of the edge holding capacity of S35V and thus far I'm a believer though I will keep monitoring that aforementioned blade belly click on the spine. The most impressive thing to me about this knife is how the front finger choil adds such versatility and applicability. I've carved a few blocks of balsa with the knife just for giggles and I'm impressed how the design of the grip on the knife allows for careful dexterity in making fine detail (not that I'm aces as a carver, but this knife is very easy to use for small, delicate cuts). I know Spyderco will undoubtedly keep tinkering with this already excellent design, but I hope they continue to produce this most excellent version of the Native for a long time to come. I can see myself wanting to purchase one or two more as spares so I can always keep one of these incredible EDC models on my person at all times. I'm VERY much looking forward to the sunburst titanium model making its appearance so that I can have a dress knife in the same model! If you want a top quality EDC that will never disappoint and simply emanates quality in your hand, buy at least one of these outstanding AMERICAN MADE knives ASAP!!
