Beat the Icon: Spyderco Para 3 vs. Alternatives

[@randytherhino]

DCA coming in with another banger of an idea; excited to see what is to come!

[@Loleyke]

Ordered a sage 5 lw yesterday and it comes tomorrow in the mail, can't wait

[@bosse641]

The Cold Steel would be my choice. Very nice. And a good price.

[@firefighting.responder]

Spyderco makes some great knives....

[@GabrielDeMfromNY]

@@mrgibbles09 your welcome Deputy Douchebag

[@lachlanlander6002]

I'm still waiting for the follow-up 😂 why finish it at "..."

[@lo5492]

@@lachlanlander6002I’ll give it a go: …if only they weren’t so damn expensive!

[@MrKnivesGuy]

Yup 😊

[@NavyAssassinOnBLAST]

Awesome video. Can't wait to see the iconic Morakniv Bushcraft knives and the alternatives. I'm loving all my Moras.

[@carlk1183]

I like the idea of comparing a popular knife with others similar to it. It can help people who are looking for knives which have similar traits, fit in with legal restraints &/or budget concerns. Having said that, it seems it's always the same knives keep popping up. I would like to see more variety in general and in this series along with more reasonably priced options. Thanks.

[@danielcox5849]

I debated between the Para 3 LW and the Sage 5 LW and decided on the Sage 5 LW. I like the overall appearance more and I really like the finger choil. It has been a great EDC that gets carried frequently.

[@toddbowers418]

That’s the same solid choice I made.

[@pauljasmine353]

Great idea for a series. Really liked the last 2. CRKT and the Cold Steel. Never been able to warm up to most Spiderco blade shapes.

[@John5.56]

I thought the same until I tried one.

[@ZPositive]

The Native 5 in LW or with liners would make a solid alternative to the Para 3.

[@andrewvillarreal2152]

Love how the channel is always coming out with fresh ideas and doesn't show us the same knives over and over again like some other KZbin channels 🤔. Great video!

[@stevelewis1721]

How many years did it take to develop the splendid expertise you display? Super work, thanks.

[@jonathandavis6072]

This is going to be a great series! DCA and the KC crew keep rocking it!

[@pocketknifecollector]

Another budget knife that gets you some similar attributes to a Para 3 is the Artisan Cutlery Arroyo. Similar blade length (but longer cutting edge and no choil), slicey flat grind and thin blade stock, piercy acute point, good neutral handle shape with G10 scales, particle metallurgy steel, deep carry clip. The most obvious differences are the upswept spine of the Arroyo (and more belly), and the liner lock instead of the compression lock. Yes, you do have to put your thumb across the blade path to unlock the blade, but there’s a big flipper tab sticking up like a finger guard there, which would hit your thumb before the blade could close on it, so from a safety perspective it’s fine. Is it as good all around as the Para 3? No-but it’s about one quarter of the price.

[@pierrepower8343]

Great review and very informative about a lot of knives. Spyderco seem to really set the standard. I don't own one yet but have a yojimbo 2 on the way and I can't wait.

[@thui7889]

Before even watching the video, I was hoping the sage 5 would make it on the list. For me it’s a better slicer and less hump for my thumb to push on, which I like. But in terms of action and “hard use” it gotta be para 3

[@punjasandtyger4090]

Great segment. Para3 is certainly iconic. Great work

[@johnkeck1025]

Can you do a video comparison of the griptilian vs the bug out? Full sizes and the minis?! Thanks!

[@tincansailor9437]

This is a great idea for a series. I own the AD 20.5 and the Pilar III. I enjoy them both and prefer their slimmer closed profiles in the pocket. (That opening hole hump is why I've never sprung for a PM3 or PM2.)

[@bougiebum9138]

@Dee Bee that's what I always thought/felt/said... right up until I got to hold the Para2 in my hand. I'm kind of a different sort of knife guy, though. I could collect knives based on aesthetics and features and materials, etc... But when a knife just feels "right" in my hand, I feel like I just "need" to own it. The last knife that tickled me like this was a $25 POS Walmart Kershaw. I bought it and I loved it. An "EDC" just has to feel right to me. I'm not normally abusing my EDC though, if I can help it. I usually try to find the right tool for the job first, before I go whooping on an EDC 🤷 just my 2 cents.

[@HammerSmashedFace92]

@Dee Bee don’t worry. They’re not as people praise them to be

[@jusme8060]

@@HammerSmashedFace92 oh yes they are.

[@charlessalmond7076]

@@jusme8060 nyet, its just a tool.

[@FancyPrimate]

@Dee Bee - Yeah, I think it's a "love or hate" thing. I think a lot of the designs work better than they look. Some designs are way over hyped(Paramilitary 2).

[@David.Nightingale]

Just go for Sage 5. I use my old Sage 1 for years and that little knife is a beast. Personally, i dont recommend LW version. It feels cheap and your hand will be in pain after hard work. Go for standard smooth CF version. - (no hotspots)...

[@jerseythedog]

The larger thumb hole on the Para makes it ideal for gloved hands. I’ve used mine for drywall, cement board, wood, food, cardboard, zip ties, wires, plastic tarp, mulch bags, and anything else that got in my way. It is absolutely my favorite knife and I default to it above my cheap and expensive knives. Every knife I have is waiting to take the same beating that this one does because I can’t seem to put this one down.

[@normcote270]

I ordered the PM3 with FRN. scales in dark blue yesterday!! Great review, thank you!!

[@clintashmead3558]

I am a new owner of Spyderco’s. I was looking at the Para 3 and PM 2. I went with the Para 3 and made the purchase three days ago (Saturday). This was my first Spyderco. I was so impressed that I went ahead and got the PM2 yesterday. I realize that these two knives are probably considered matured or seasoned in the marketplace. However, they still very much maintain a stronghold in a grail category in my opinion. Your alternatives offer great options but I really couldn’t by-pass the Para 3 or PM2’s. The two I got offer G10 scales and s45v blade steel. The PM2 is the all black version with DLC blade coating. Again, these two knives are iconic. Maybe not as exciting as some newer released blades but certainly they are worth prioritizing as part of a collection and carry.

[@shamitoson]

The Sage 5 LW has steel liners, the para 3 LW does not. Also the texture is much nicer on the Sage compared to Para 3 LW. Tai Chung does FRN textures much better than Golden.

[@zman8340]

^^^^^^this^^^^ talk abut a perfect knife. My sage 5 lw is the best built and finished spyderco I’ve ever had and I’ve carried them for 25 years.

[@shamitoson]

@@thaknobodi not sure what you mean. Sage 5 feels the same. Now the lil’ native has a little piece that bangs your finger when closing it. Haven’t had anything like that with the Sage. Standard compression lock feel.

[@czenkusm]

Lol nah

[@Jsmith9055]

I think the Sage 5LW is legitimately the perfect folding knife. Not the nicest, or fanciest maybe, but its pretty much perfect for damn near everyone

[@bennyc409]

The Para 3 really is in its own class. My S45VN version almost invariably ends up in my pocket when I'm working around the house. It's tough and slicey, and the tip is nice and pointy when you need it. I've got big hands, but I've always found the Para 3 a great fit, and the PM2 unnecessarily large. The Para 3 is not my first choice for out and about or at work though.

[@notme123123]

Very cool episode! I was actually thinking about this from a different angle. I’ve decided that I want to get a Spyderco, but I’m overwhelmed with the number of choices. I don’t have a specific tactical use case. This will be just an EDC pocket knife. I have big hands and I’d like a full grip (no Manbugs). I have a Civivi Elementum, a CEO Flipper, and a Kershaw Zing. I’d like to get something more interesting by way of lock and/or steel. How about a “How to pick your first Spyderco” episode?

[@urcrimeiamlaw]

Was in the same position Bought several and the Sage 5 LW is the absolute winner I really love the compression lock and it’s my go to edc most days. Start there.

[@harrycrab8725]

Or a para 2 or 3. I resisted for a long time. Not sure why. They’re popular for a reason! Also lots of versions to choose from and after market parts/options if interested.

[@VisionWords]

The Sage 5 LW or the Manix 2 are Spyderco's best EDC knives, in my opinion. The Sage is a great lightweight option, and the Manix is great if you want something a little bigger. Both have great locks, but the ball-bearing lock on the Manix is probably a little more fun to use and also is arguably the stronger of the two.

[@abc456f]

@@VisionWords Agree. I actually dislike both the para 3 and pm2 because of the lack of chamferring on the scales. They're just plain uncomfortable. Carrying the sage 1 in maxamet today, great knife. But I'd pick the manix 2 as my all time favorite spyderco.

[@DZNTZ]

Manix is probably the most “fun” first Spyderco, and a great fit for large hands. Price isn’t too harsh either. The PM2 and Para 3 are the most customizable if that’ll be your thing. Few things more edc-able than a good knife that you’ve put your own stamp on. But the Manix would be a good gateway!

[@stevebrown7190]

It’s very difficult to find something with the function, and feel of a Para 3. It’s one of my favorite EDC’s of all time, and probably gets as much pocket time as any knife I own.

[@mad0uche]

I mean besides the Para 2, I would say that's an understatement, there is nothing like it.

[@gregasp728]

@@mad0uche 3

[@shamitoson]

@@mad0uche it’s funny how people go either way on those two. Have both and really don’t care for the para 2. Way too big and heavy closed for such a short blade. Para 3 is just nice.

[@shamitoson]

Sage 5 would float your boat then. I’d go Sage5, para 3, many other knives, PM2( way down the list for edc).

[@stevebrown7190]

@@shamitoson I have a Sage 5 lightweight, it’s a good option too.

[@tarkbaydar5465]

Nice idea for new series. I love that you can still find new ideas.

[@OffTheGrid1982]

That SOG is one of my favorite folders. Solid 💯👊

[@wayneorellana2549]

This is a really good idea for a segment. Keep up the awesome work.

[@zbhaz1105]

I've had some pretty cool knives over the last 35 or so years the para three quickly became my favorite

[@Chloe-py3vk]

Yooo really excited for this series

[@NavyAssassinOnBLAST]

Same

[@josesoto7184]

Good vid DCA But one thing I never see mentioned about the para 3 which I consider a great benefit is the minimal amount of hardware for the toughness you receive, Less to go wrong and if something does quicker to maintain, Pair of 3 executes that better than most

[@dano727]

I love my Para3 LightWeight ! Definitely high in the rotation ! I actually prefer the FRN scales to the G10.

[@realbroggo]

This is an excellent idea!! Why I absolutely love this channel. Other icons for consideration: Cold Steel Recon 1, Ontario RAT 1 (or 2), Benchmade Bugout, Civivi Elementum and Chis Reeve Sebenza, Buck 110 - actually pick anything I love it all!! Another great vid.

[@trlarosa]

Awesome thanks so much. Ironically I just pulled out my Para 3 LW today before seeing this video. It was the first knife that checked all the boxes for me but I hadn’t handled it for a while. It will be back in my pocket soon. Thanks again! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@TartanJack]

Super interesting. I carry a Para 3 Lightweight in Spy27 every day. And when I want or need to carry a different knife, I also carry the Para 3. The premium knives here are wonderful, but once you get away from that compression lock and look at liner and frame locks, they just aren't in the same league despite the premium materials. Love the idea for this series.

[@ScottSmith-lx5xb]

That's why I purchased a Benchmade AFO 2. Always select a one handed, large, well made automatic. My little Kershaw launch 6 is my mini carry blade.

[@kylemccaffrey3003]

Don’t own either but I’d have to think of the mini grip and bug out as being a pretty solid competitor against the para 3. I do own the ad20.5 and it’s a staple in my edc

[@mesawolff2233]

Hey Guys, great new series as always. I just got the Kansept Pelican and I believe it’s a strong contender as a Para 3 alternative. It’s a phenomenal knife. Also, the Kizer October is worth a mention. Thanks, always look forward to your videos.

[@BlueOx2277]

So how well does the para 3 compare against the Buck 110 in ANY of their trims or model? Specially the slim pro knives…

[@allrededc]

Looking through my collection, I would have given pretty strong consideration to the Kizer October. $129 20cv, micarta scaled liner lock with a low profile flipper, opening hole, and a Fuller that can be used to flick the blade out as well..

[@ZPositive]

Yes, except buying one gives money to the CCP. 🤮

[@DZNTZ]

The Para 3 works for me because 3” is the concealed limit in my state. Its hard to beat, though if I could I’d carry a PM2! They’re both special knives, worth the price tag. The D2 RAT 2 makes a great budget alternative, a fantastic value and fun to customize. Another favorite edc is the Izula 2 - with a good sheath, it’s extremely carryable and just awesome. Still 3”, so if it’s concealed no worries.

[@geoffwatson8007]

Good video! I loved your performance in Talladega Nights!

[@troysnyder8174]

Have a para 3 in s45vn , love it , I have large hands , trying to get ahold of a cerabrus worker scales but not lucky so far. It if had just 1/4" longer handle...

[@rtz549]

Would have liked to have seen the blue ridge knives versions of the ESEE folders. The ant and the wasp. Also the RAT 1 and 2 should have made an appearance just for comparison and consideration.

[@silverbeard_edc4546]

I carry the same digital camo Para 3 but with a black S45 blade. The Para 3 or the Buck 112 Sport are in my pocket 90% of the time. Two different knives but both are amazing carries

[@toddhaner5617]

PM 2 and 3 are great. I love everything but the amount of pocket width they take up. Mini grip and 940 are in my pocket most of the time. PM's set on the dresser most of the time.

[@Letmetellyouwhat]

This is my favorite knife channel. Always tune in Thursdays for new knives and Saturdays for KnifeAQ. And the midweek videos are pretty good. I especially like it when you include Seth. This one however, was just not for me. I got a little bored. I'm still tuning in though. Just some constructive criticism.

[@jimkissell1620]

I’m surprised the Byrd meadowlark didn’t get mentioned as a budget option

[@emersonb5764]

Only downside to the Para 3 is it requires an aftermarket pocket clip for deep carry in tip-up. But the mxgear clip is awesome.

[@1996Gtalum]

Yeah, for those that care about deep carry. I never have. I like the stock clip on the para 3.

[@RUSTYGHOST-fq5ec]

Great idea for a series love it. Please do shaman next!

[@billy_2473]

9:17 when you pulled out the Sog I was about to puke but then I think you actually won me over… it’s on the list now.

[@gspam154]

Own too many Para 3 and Para 3 Lightweights. Love them. Great idea for a series.

[@marccohen5477]

How about the Benchmade 533-3 Mini Bugout CPM-S90V Carbon. It's so light in your pocket making it easy to carry. Plus a great blade.

[@Nightwolf866]

Hey DCA, you keep overlooking the N in BD1N steel. It is a different steel with more edge retention and toughness than BD1.

[@travisbrueckner4457]

I feel lik Hogue K320 or Ritter Mini might be similar for price and blade steel ergo as well

[@UnholyMassCult]

Best idea for a series. Do every icon!

[@tobyhall1167]

How about taking on the Benchmade Griptilian in a "Beat the Icon". That was my go to for a while, now I'm rocking the Hogue Sig K320.

[@garrettdustman8505]

I wish the griptilian with the thumb hole was still available. Probably one of the best alternatives to the PM3 while keeping most of the best parts of it and adding the axis lock

[@jf4572]

Excellent review 👍🍻

[@se7enspac3s]

I've got a bunch of expensive knives, but I've been rocking the para3 lw for the last few weeks. Works great, sharpens easy.

[@BrentonCarr]

Fantastic idea for a series!

[@fuelediowa]

What! No Sig K320? I think that is closer than half the ones you shared. Fingers out of the way. Good handle length. Put them side by side on those.

[@JPC326]

Really wish i could find a Demko 20.5 on Canada with the same steel as yours.

[@roylayug5405]

Hey DCA, Love that Demko 20.5 in red. When will you be getting the black blade version?

[@peggynulsen1365]

What a great video idea. Nice picks for comparison too. I own several of these....no shortage of good knives to choose from.

[@Fred-f1g]

What about the RAT1 or its Ganzo 727M alternative? Under an 3.5 inch blade I would not carry nor want. 3 inch is to short for me.

[@jonathantrescastro2712]

What about something from spydercos sub bran Byrd there has to be something in that line up I’m sure right?

[@threeminuteshate]

@1:50 My wife has been stuck with three inches for the past 21 years!

[@ml8067]

Great topic, keep them coming. For me the Giant Mouse is the closest. Your knowledge paid on this one. I never would have even thought of the mini recon.

[@Matt.L.L]

Is the finish on the Para 3 S45VN stonewashed or satin? I've seen it listed as both, and I'm curious before I pull the trigger on a purchase.

[@knifecenter]

It has a subtle stonewash -DCA

[@TeddyBoy7796]

Great video cheers, can I just ask how you guys get the blade pivot so loose so it’s easy to flick out and in? I’ve tried 3 in 1, WD40, vegetable oil and even loosening the pivot nut but nothing seems to work, I will add that my spyders are new, any advice would be great, thanks.

[@YahushaIsTheWay]

Some manufacturers think to damn highly of their knives. No pocket knife is worth 300 400 dollars.

[@KellyRobinette]

I do not own the Para 3, I’ve been resisting for purely ridiculous reasons. However, I do own the CRKT Pilar III and it’s about the best EDC I’ve ever had. I grab it constantly. The action is awesome, rock solid lock up and it looks nice. Yes, it’s heavy but no heavier than the original Pilar I have or the Squid which is my favorite knife ever! I have fiddled with the compression lock a bit and I just can’t get used it. Same with the axis lock. I might just be too set in my ways or just haven’t found the right knife yet to represent either of those locks. But, I do think the Para 3 is hard to beat as an icon. I love this series and can’t wait to see what’s next. Pardon me if I’m out of line, but I’d love to see a fixed blade show down. I don’t envy you the task of choosing which one to go first, but I think that would be great.

[@gingebrien2408]

Para 3 is one of my all time favorites. My favorite vs is in Cruwear. But if Spyderco really wants to make it the holy grail make it in 3V. The blade shape makes it an amazing slicer that is hard to beat.

[@AmeriMutt76]

Here too, my m390 is hard not to pick up everyday

[@macmccartney5760]

So is the the pm2 stil the gold standard for slicing? For all others to be compared too? Or has the title shifted hands?

[@lewisyouknow]

Brilliant idea for a series!!!!!!

[@jameswhoever3730]

I was thinking about this last nightmare when I first seen them, (like a glock) I thought they were ugly and didnt get it.(I just started getting it into knives about 2 years now), and finally got a para 3 in maxamet, and I love it, I cant not take it. I work at a box company and all day cut think green bands and boxes and thatbpars 3 cuts clean for months before inneed to strop. And last night I was thinking about this, now I thing it looks great.

[@ryanharnell9268]

Nice List. Yeah Vox plays so much in the sub 3 category. Pillar 3 D2 is my favorite fancy "Beater"

[@blackadder1966]

Still would pick the para 2 or 3, I'm into button locks at the moment so looking forward to the We malice and protech mordax. Civivi quality of materials doesn't cut it for me.

[@joeisabella6811]

You do know that WE are made right next to civivi right? You seriously think the same company in China is making and using different materials on the multiple lines of knives they are making?

[@blueeyeswhitedragon9839]

@@joeisabella6811 :- 👍

[@blackadder1966]

@@joeisabella6811 Are you saying is that WE knives and Civivi are using the same blade steel. Titanium and G10 are the same and every company selling these products are frauds selling products not as described?

[@muskyman1018]

Sounds like this is going to be a great series DCA!

[@massdriverone7583]

I've often seen PM2's especially being compared to the upgraded Cold Steel American Lawman. Spydie's have an edge in lock manipulation but the strength factor of the tri-ad counterbalances nicely

[@Cadwallader38]

Upgraded?

[@massdriverone7583]

@@Cadwallader38 just meaning the newer ones, made with better materials. Aus8>cts-xhp>s35 etc

[@Cadwallader38]

@@massdriverone7583 I never knew they were AUS8 I knew about the CTSXHP versions because I always heard they were better than the new ones. I bought one a couple of years ago in s35 but it had too many issues and I returned it.

[@davidinghram2494]

I have three knives that size...Demko AD20.5 jade green...Ace Biblio dark titanium...Para 3 blurple, s110V. I carry them in that order, very seldom the Para 3 because it is so chunky compared to the other two. All three excellent knives that would make anyone happy.

[@Tzodie]

You guys are the ultimate knife nerd channel. I love it so much. I feel so heard!!! lmao

[@jbrown8918]

Great video. The Para 3 is in a class by itself...however I did purchase the BRS Nomad which gave me the look (Digi-Camo and black coated blade), choil and thumb slot similar to the Para 3. The jimped 'thumb hump', lol, Spyderco has reserved for their pricier models is something not found in alternatives either...

[@Madmartigan4477]

I have a Para 2 and a Steel Will cutjack that compare favorably, considering the price difference. I wonder if the Para 3 would compare favorably with the mini Cutjack in a similar fashion???

[@blacklyte716]

SOG Terminus LTE has been a newer carry from my Para 3. Light, easy to deploy and retract, and light.

[@nonnobissolum]

Honey Badger by Western Active. Absolutely GREAT knife and alternative to P3. Never understood why Knife Center doesn't carry it, though I guess not carrying it is why it isn't in this vid. Great idea for vid series, btw.

[@Jd-ql3nh]

If and when they learn to heat treat sure until then nope

[@nonnobissolum]

@@Jd-ql3nh Hmmmm. I shall look into that. In the meantime...still no issues with my own HB's in D2. Homework time...

[@dmharvey30]

Have had my spyderco efficient for almost a year. Love it an it is my go to knife. It’s my every day carry.

[@holgerthennig1780]

Really nice video, big thanks!

[@RonR-z5h]

Got a light weight one coming tomorrow

[@jguet9482]

I know you guys don't carry this yet, but my favorite non-para 3 knife in that size is the EMP EDC Nymble. Super fidgety and a great blade.

[@jespernakskov6206]

Very cool Beat the icon video, with a lot of different knives to look at aswell. The Para 3 is one of my favorite knives, it just works and feels good in the hand. The only other knife I could think of that is in the same ballpark, is the Willumsen Copenhagen RED E in G10. Try looking at that. BTW your content i great, keep up the good work.

[@DavidHernandez-dq1ih]

Is there any deep carry pocket clip for the original para 3 even a aftermarket one

[@matthiasd4605]

I got the S45 and the S110 of the para 3, i would like to throw in a civivi ODD22 for a budget option.

[@EagleJim62]

I've got the Digi cam s45 version of the para 3 and I love the stonewashed blade. The best part of the para 3 is the handle. As you described, it's a small blade that can be used for heavy duty work. As with many Spydercos, it's a classic. I'm also a big fan of the AD 20.5 with D2 steel. I replaced the cheesy handles with micarta and now it's a great knife.

[@redastrachan8978]

22:51 - something new? Notoriously right side clip only on initial reissue

[@DuhYaThink]

Yup, pm2 😊love the para 3’s. Just the blade availability is great and the ergos are top notch for a smaller knife 👍🏻

[@shavo_.]

Para 3 was my main squeeze until the AD20.5 came out. Only thing i would replace the 20.5 with is if i could ever get a hold of a full size AD20 which seem to be unobtainium for a realistic price.

[@walterstreet1467]

I have a para 3, I bought one soon as it came out. I got a lot of cuts, because the lock release is not left hand friendly. Mine is camo they didn’t have lightweight back then I converted it to left hand carry as soon as I got it

[@midwestgear]

Love the new series idea! I'd go for a Hogue Deka or budget sog terminus xr. Love my sog and I'm craving a deka bad.