Spyderco Paramilitary 2

I need another knife like an eskimo needs an icemaker, but who can resist love at first sight? I recently wrote about my love affair with the Spyderco Delica 4, but when I saw the PM 2 while browsing the Spyderco forums, I knew I just had to have one (even though it felt like I was cheating on my Delica).

The PM 2 is similar to the Delica in many respects, but overall, is more robust. Anyone who has a Delica will find the features of the PM familiar such as the jimping in the thumb notch and the famous "Spyderco Hole" for easy, one-handed opening.

And, like the Delica, the clip is adjustable for either right-handed or left-handed tip-up or tip-down carry.

Out of the box it's configured to be right-handed tip-down carry, so using my Torx wrench, I converted it to right-handed tip-up (my preferred carry for all my knives). 

Spyderco Delica vs. the Paramilitary 2

There are a few key differences between the Delica and PM 2. The most obvious is that the handle is different. It's bigger and more robust giving you a really solid grip (even for big hands) and the texture is different. Rather than the larger scales of the Delica, the PM has a very fine-grained texture that is comfortable, but still provides a non-slip grip (think shark skin instead of alligator skin). It just feels good in the hand.

There are two positions in which you can grip the PM. One, is with your index finger in the notch further back on the handle ...

And the other is to choke up a little and place your index finger in the first notch (which gives you a little more precision for more delicate cutting work) ...

This notch also features jimping and a slight (but functional) "guard" to protect against slip.

Whereas the Delica has a mid-handle lockback release, the PM sports a compression lock close to the blade. At first, I didn't think I would like this locking mechanism, but I do. I'm not sure if there's any mechanical advantage to it, but ergonomically, it works for me (Note: I'm right-handed).

Another noticeable difference is the weight. At 3.8 oz., the PM is considerably heavier than the Delica (which is 2.5 oz.). But that's to be expected for a more robust blade.

Given that, I'm more likely to use it as an EDC where weight doesn't matter and bring my Delica when I go on ultralight backpacking trips.

The PM 2 comes in a variety of handle colors and your choice of a plain-edge or serrated stainless or black blade.

The Spyderco Paramilitary 2 is like a Delica 4 on steroids (I've always hated that cliche so I'm not sure why I'm using it). Whether you're a Delica owner who loves all of its features and wants to step it up a notch, just looking to expand your Spyderco collection, or are a Spyderco virgin and want to pop your cherry, you'd be hard pressed to find a better choice than the PM2. It's sexy, ergonomic, hard working, and SHARP!

For options, technical specs, and pricing, visit the Spyderco website.