The Spyderco Native 5 Fluted CF/S90V Pocketknife: A Quick Shabazz Review

[@paulx7620]

Nick, I can't understand why you don't have 1 million subs yet. As strange as it may sound, in my extremely busy life your videos are my guilty pleasure. Every other minute of the day I'm working, no time that is not spent on kids work or the house. Like sitting and watching TV never happens. So I'm just saying thanks.

[@andyrichardson6188]

Paul X 100% with you. Watching TV? Hahaha... kids + rebuilding my deck + a dozen other house projects. This is also one of my few escapes.

[@paulx7620]

@@andyrichardson6188 yeah I guess there are worse problems to have, at least we have the drive and health to get it done. Carry on buddy 👍.

[@purebredbjjguam]

Love your content sir. Living in Guam it helps to watch you handle the gear and your opinions are fair....keep up the great work!

[@void1984]

With 1 million subscribes he could get more people into watches, and knives.

[@snakalw]

Eric Glesser told me he usually doesn't keep a single knife in his pocket for very long because he's usually trying out new Spyderco prototypes. In the case of this knife, though, he said he carried it daily for a few months. That should tell you something about it.

[@Tregrense]

Another superb review. I discovered this channel looking for watches. One of my favorite channels. This knife is at the top of my list and I'm ok with the small issues. The design speaks to me. A work of art.

[@brucemcintyre2383]

Cutlery Shoppe is excellent. They still have the Wharnie Delica in S30V at $78, which is last year’s price.

[@SirGalath]

As a long time owner of one of these i have some corrections to make. Pry the carbon fiber scale, wont hurt it a bit, carbon fiber (specially of this quality) is an amazing material. No need to sand the scales, make some quick passes with the spine of a knife or something similar and in less than 30 seconds you are set. There is a huge gap between s90 and s35vn, think of s90 as a s110v with better toughness but a bit less edge retention (but still coming on top of m390 there) It is nothing to scoff at and probably one of the best edc steels out there, but since it is not part of the steel-of-the-week hype train it gets way less love than it deserves.

[@Stahlzee]

s90v is a HUGE upgrade from s35vn... but maybe not for the average fella. it'll stay sharp longer... but you better know how to sharpen after!

[@oceanwaves83]

What's interesting is that Larrin's recent scientific testing has S90V having better edge retention than s110v. Aside from corrosion resistance and "back end" sharpness (s110v's ability to hold a usably sharp edge forever), S90V seems to be better in every way, given both are heat treated optimally. Hopefully Spyderco has investigated this phenomenon and will find a way to push their S90V further. And I don't find S90V chippy at all. The only time I got it to chip was through repeatedly chopping at a knot in a hardwood log. I was trying to make it chip, and it did. The chips were very small though. Never had it chip in any normal use. S110V on the other hand is prone to microchipping.

[@SirGalath]

@@oceanwaves83 me neither... while it is clear (on paper) that it is not a tough steel, i never have had an issue with it. My favourite steel for a pocket knife so far to be honest.

[@Freakmaster480]

@@oceanwaves83s90v and d2 are basically on par for toughness. If a knife in d2 done well would be fine, then s90v shouldn't have any issues with chipping.

[@carmelotansengco4605]

I bought an S30V/G10 Native 5 yesterday (04/20/2023). I had difficulty taking it apart also. The backlock pivot was so tight. I didn't have the same problem with my Native Chief, my S110V/G10 Native 5 and my CPM-SPY27 LW.

[@tangoyankee7521]

The Native 5 simply perfect neat beautiful knife...the best.

[@mgnelson013]

The most expensive version of the Native 5 is still cheaper than a Benchmade 940-1 with the same blade/handle materials.

[@ryanqwerty]

Matthew Nelson but the 940-1 is a better knife with a much better lock, and comes with a much better warranty and lifetime sharpening. Not saying the native 5 is bad or a bad value, but the 940 is justifiably pricier. I love Nick, but his bias against the 940 saddens me, as it is truly one of the best knives out, and has been for a long, long time.

[@jurriaanvankampen5171]

Ryan Lohrenz Its not a better lock, its a more user friendly lock for most people but harder to clean and omega springs can break. Also the lock back is stronger so the best locking mechanisn is different for every person.

[@rhsu123]

Probably because of all the bells and whistles on the 940-1 (fidgety lock, Butterfly tax), but they're both pretty tried and true at this point. Fan of both!

[@Vextos]

@@ryanqwerty The 940 can't slice worth a shit.

[@traviswrigg5158]

Jurrieaan, agreed 100%. Plus if you live somewhere like I do, an Axis lock is a no go because if I cop determines it to be a gravity knife (which is more fair than say... a Spydie drop kinda deal (still absurd and shouldn't happen though)) that suddenly went from "Having a knife in your pocket" to "Felony weapon charge with a year minimum in prison"

[@jimm244]

I was disinterested in the Native 5 LW, but bought one on the cheep for gifting. Darn if I didn’t fall in love with it. It broke my heart a little to give it away and I’ve wanted a replacement ever since. I think I’ll have to go top-shelf and get one of these....or maybe wait for the LC200N LW??? Darn Spyderco, they’re killing me!

[@runrin_]

you set out to review, and review you do, but the real value here is your sense of humor. thanks for the laughs as always.

[@American-dy5jk]

I bought one, knocked off the sharp edges on the handles and Spydie hole, then polished the washers. After a few days of use this knife broke in and is a true 💎. What is truly great is that Spyderco has built a knife that with some gentle tweaking rivals a full custom.

[@barkingspider2007]

Sandpaper? What grit? Thank you!

[@FindersKeepers88]

Nick, know this is an old review, BUT, Thx. I almost pulled the trigger B4 listening to your very reasonable, logical explanation of why this is isn't the be all, end all N5 for the money, I'm going to get one... but not this one, not yet

[@Spitsz01]

I agree with Paul x. You should have a million by now, you deserve it. thx Nick, almost bought this.

[@EVONLMessi10]

This review is my favorite one since you started your channel Nick. I truly love your reviews as they’re informative and educational. Great job Brother! 😀🙌🏻💯✌🏻🤙🏻

[@danielohara3454]

This and the pakkawood delica are definitely on my list of gentleman's carry knives that I need to acquire. I love my s35vn/frn native but I really want something a little classier that isnt as imposing as my 0450.

[@carysorensen3029]

I own this knife and your review was spot on! It’s my favorite knife. I had to soften the edges and it really helped those hot spots.

[@tonydavis5053]

Have a cf love the knife but it’s the stiffest back lock I’ve handled, love the blade size and how it fits my hand, hope it loosen up

[@MrTJohnston]

I’ve waited a long time for one of these. Just ordered this today from DLT trading.

[@randallkelley3599]

I added a Ti low carry clip, and its great. Light, sharp, small, low rider!

[@mitchy826]

got this in right before you put up the review and i love it.

[@Joe.dirt7909]

I’m a fan of Spyderco’s brighter colored knife scale offerings. I’ve got a bad habit of sitting my knife down when I’m using it & the brother colored help me locate it faster.

[@XLMetroid]

I have the Native 5 in fluted titanium and S35V steel. Absolutely love it but it is a chunk of metal in my pocket. Sadly Spyderco discontinued the titanium version last year. This carbon fiber version looks fantastic and I may consider buying one.

[@Hungrybird474]

A seconds maxamet at a spyderco sale was $79 in 12/2023 plus $13 shipping 😮. The inky thing I can see different is the milling lines on the top swedge but it looks cool

[@lracrellim2711]

I got one in m4 blade and natural green g10 scales. This model must be their Frankenstein.

[@ocomegashadowstacking5886]

Really great knife review video about Spyderco!!!👍😎😎😎👍

[@rustyc]

Thanks for this review Nick. I was seriously considering picking one up for my birthday but I may pick up the Maxamet version for a bit cheaper to see if I even like the Native line. I could get the Maxamet and a beater knife for the price of the Carbon Native.

[@g5magic]

Love your reviews. Very true and informative!!! Thx

[@KnifeHandleSupply]

Nice! I've been waiting for you to review either the G10 or carbon fiber version of the Native 5! I picked up a standard FRN Native 5 awhile back and it just wasn't for me. I just didn't see what it offered over the FRN Chaparral. The Chaparral has a similar usable blade length with a smaller handle, better steel, a better (in my opinion) clip, a better (again in my opinion) FRN pattern, a steel back spacer, and to top it off, the Chaparral is cheaper. I really think the G10 or carbon fiber version would be more my speed with the steel backspacer and heftier handle. I plan on snagging one to use as a hard use knife along with my M4 Para 3 as soon as Spyderco or a distributor releases one in a steel that interests me (Cruwear, 52100, Rex45, 204P, or maybe even Elmax). Also... Spyderco switched to S30V in place of S35VN on the standard FRN Native 5.

[@rightcontractingncsf4561]

Have the new style Native 5 in G10. It is the newer revision without full metal liners. Experiencing blade rock when pushing hard into a cut. Also the blade can be shifted easily from side to side when closed. If I tighten it up any more than I already have, it becomes difficult to close/open. Is this normal for Native 5's?

[@adamtimmins3035]

In my experience blade rock when cutting is typical of any lock back. I'm not sure why you are concerned about blade play when closed. The lock isn't engaged so it shouldn't be rock solid.

[@rightcontractingncsf4561]

Thanks for the reply. I was thinking my experience is atypical when considering Nick's review.

[@rightcontractingncsf4561]

Thanks for replying. I will contact Spyderco.

[@aaronbenns9051]

the pocket clip is so nice you kinda want it to show with that spyderco emblem etched in it

[@Broken_Arrow58]

Chamfer -- good word. Was looking for a word to explain how well the edge is beveled on the carbon fiber handle version of the Ontario R2D2. The resultant G2 underlayment exposure aids grip to compensate for the slippery CF.

[@bback74]

Thanks for the review. Great and honest as always. I have a Sage 5 in S30V and love it as a compliment to my Para2s. No reason to get the Native in my opinion. Then again. I've got plenty of Spydercoes in my (no use) collection.

[@christophers_verified]

3:22 What is that knife? It's beautiful!

[@sharpsvilleBill]

Nick, you are a gem...

[@taeso2160]

Hey Nick - Would you go with this, The fluted S90V Native 5 oooor the Peel-ply Carbon Fiber with S90V/CM-154 with a Saber Grind on it..?

[@tomr3641]

My favorite Spyderco. The contoured CF and S90V had value to me, so price was OK. Indeed there are those other versions, (also own one). Yes you could buy a Delica, Chaparral and Shaman. Or, you could buy this and save the $ for those other 3. Is there any job you would do with a folding knife this cant? Nick, its not hard to get apart and is very simple once you get inside. I used a plastic wedge shaped tool gently spread the CF near the beautifully tight fitting pin. How do we rave about tight tolerances on say a Chris Reeve, then ding Spyderco for doing same here? Disassembly ability is a feature, but I fear we give weight to this feature beyond the need. How often as a practical matter do we disassemble a knife? Ever? I agree with all that you said about the milled Cf, it hit me exactly the same way. The marketing pics hyped the depth of the grooving. It does look different in different lighting, but is still quite attractive and nicer than the now ubiquitous flat CF scale or inlay. The Native 5 is a very pocket friendly, well made knife, that gets the job of a knife, done well and comes in lots of variations at prices for almost anyone. 940-1 better? Nah

[@rustyc]

I got this knife and did the same thing for disassembly. Used a plastic trim tool and gently rocked it back and forth. Really like the knife, but I found the same hot spots Nick talked about with the CF around the lock and the clip. I am considering getting a flat titanium pocket clip and lightly sanding the edges of the CF.

[@cvdubya5774]

This exact knife but in Magnacut or Cruwear is prefect.

[@monstersbox]

Cruwear/Magnacut are not better than s90v. I'm not saying s90v is better either. In fact, Cruwear is probably my personal favorite steel - along with XHP. I'm feeling pretty good about SPY27 because it reminds me of why I like XHP. What I'm getting at is there are many steels that are excellent, but s90v is on par with Cruwear and Magnacut - it's more about how the specific knife is designed for which task that determines which steel is best for a specific knife. And I can without a doubt say that s90v for THIS particular knife is a far superior choice than Cruwear and Magnacut.

[@knifenoob5411]

Try the fluted Ti one. My only native. Gentlemen nail driver is how I describe it. Feels indestructible,yeah a Native i know.

[@markjg2275]

Where is a review of the new Spyderco Native 5 Cruwear from Knife center , just released August 2-3, 2019

[@thsbulldawg82]

Question. Are "hot spots" something that smaller hands tend to notice more? Because, I'll be damned if I've ever noticed one. Rough corners etc also. I love the reviews, but I've never been able to relate to that.

[@NickShabazz]

I suspect it's less about hand size and more about hand texture. Harder, calloused hands won't feel them as readily. My hands are pretty soft, as I'm a keyboard commando, so I get much more of that.

[@thsbulldawg82]

@@NickShabazz Thanks Nick. I sorta have the same situation with watches. And that's your fault as I haven't worn one in decades until I started watching your channel. No, I didn't take your advice to not get into watches. Great. Now I have another costly habit. But, it's strange how a 42 mm watch can look on a 6.5 wrist verses a 9.25 wrist. BTW, I love your reviews. Keep up the good work.

[@traviswrigg5158]

Dammit Nick! Why did your conclusion on this review have to describe me exactly!? I love my native! It's a great knife! In fact it's probably the perfect "me" knife! The only problem is sometimes I'd like to have a fancier knife. Maybe I'm wearing a suit. Maybe I'm taking my girlfriend to a nicer dinner. Maybe I'm hanging out with someone who thinks knives are scary and something other than black plastic will help them be more at ease (yes by being pocket jewelry). My GEC knife has been doing just fine for that, but every time I slip it into my pocket I look over at my native and let a little sigh that says "if only." When they first released this I had to remind myself that I don't have the kind of money to be buying such an expensive knife, and I just kinda let it go. But then you just *had* to go and describe exactly me and once again rekindle my desire to have the dressiest native I could possibly get my hands on. Ughghghgh why couldn't you have done my the kindness of saying "Bleh. It's just not very good. Steer clear entirely no matter who you are." Have you no shame sir!? *sobbing* here I go allocating a portion of my income to be earmarked as "for a CF native" You're the wooooorst

[@NickShabazz]

Sounds like you need a love-letter to your favorite knife :)

[@traviswrigg5158]

Sheeple4thePeople ! Well I guess this is how I'm doing this comment thread now. Thanks Shabazz for this knife review. When I buy this knife I will glare at it and remind myself that you're a real kneebiter Also I suspect I'll carry it lovingly

[@IlliniDog01]

I feel like they should have rounded the scales more across the back of the knife to make it even more ergonomic and make it feel thinner in the pocket.

[@hificat101]

Just ordered one of these on sale for $220, 5 years after this video, so I feel like I got a good deal.

[@ambrosefairview117]

Excellent price - was that a Black Friday deal somewhere? 👍

[@hificat101]

@@ambrosefairview117 yep. Knives Plus, but I saw them at least one other place for that price

[@rainmayhem4255]

Do you get to keep all the knives companies send you? Great video

[@BradGryphonn]

Mmmm. I swapped my Delica in ZDP189 for a fixed blade that I really liked. Monetary wise I lost out by 30 bucks but I love the knife I traded it for. I ordered a Salt 2 last week because I want another Spyderco. Now you've got me thinking about an entry level one of these.

[@Lazarus745]

Can't wait for the LC200N version.

[@jliu919]

Can confirm the hard to disassemble issue is not a one off. Unfortunate

[@andrewemerson9319]

What’s the difference between a lever lock and a lock back?

[@ikksksknsk4720]

Great fashion piece

[@mforrest1508]

Have you tried sharpening S90v? Are you able to get a nice edge like M390 or S35vn?

[@TheFiendRacer]

That’s a sexy native, I might want to get it next.

[@edrader]

when you say they "sent" it to you does that mean you get to keep it?

[@Peter-976]

Does Spyderco make a deep carry clip for this?

[@traviswrigg5158]

I'm afraid not. You'll have to get an after market clip I believe

[@brucemcintyre2383]

MXG is a great choice.

[@rashid_art]

Travis W Rigg can I have your number? WhatsApp

[@davidolds4617]

Many years ago I toured the Spyderco factory with the local knife club, and they were testing the Natives lock. It had gone through several generations of testing. So I guess I’m a fan. I’ve got one of the original versions, if not the original. This is pretty high priced, I don’t know....okay I’m lusting after this knifes. My wife has threatened stab me if I get within 100 yards of the Spyderco store So I guess I’ll die frustrated.

[@edrader]

so apparently you changed your mind later and bought this knife (which i think is a total gem)

[@Keith_the_knife_freak]

Nice review!! 💎💎💎

[@madmysticmeister]

Oh why must I have seen this.. next paycheck and I’ll get the best version of my favorite knife

[@fubargnarly1635]

Like that carbon fiber...

[@jskrawz4611]

I have 10 knives now but the Native 5 lightweight goes in my pocket every day... I can attest to it being a pretty tough little knife... I actually like my Manix 2 better but it seems to scare people because of its size so the Native is my choice... For the price you can't beat it...

[@Spitsz01]

So what does THIS version cost in the States?

[@andyrichardson6188]

$234 US at BladeHQ.

[@TheFiendRacer]

I’m not sure how I feel about the no liners.

[@Bad_Rattle]

Great knife! Carrying mine today and yes.... That pin is VERY TIGHTLY pressed into the CF. It'll come apart tho. I knocked down the edges of the CF and it's way better now👌🏻

[@CarlosDangerTheThird]

I believe the Native 5 no longer comes in S35vn

[@cloudcleaver23]

Hopefully we're seeing the end of Spyderco's knockoff carbon fiber, just sticking a thin layer of it on top of G10.

[@jonathanou8122]

Oh how I wish they'd make a Native in something other than backlock.

[@jonathanou8122]

@FlamQ Dbltap exactly.

[@andyrichardson6188]

Replied to somebody else above. Look at the Sages. Pretty close in terms of size and carry.

[@andyrichardson6188]

Nice review. Shame about those sharp edges on the CF. Spyderco is great at making the same knife across a range of prices. For me Sage 5 > Native > Delica because of the choil and overall ergos and the compression lock on the Sage. All great, plus others on this range Nick mentioned.

[@rinkvh5543]

Meanwhile in europe the g10 s30v model goes for 220 dollars (181 euros)

[@touchMelilbro]

Nick s90v has the toughness of d2 so is just fine

[@SirGalath]

YES

[@mforrest1508]

Yeah it does. Tough enough for sure. The problem with it is sharpening. Not stock removal most people just can’t get it as sharp as other steels. I recent figured it out! Great stuff!

[@monkeyfaceII]

It’s a nice knife a little boring looking until you pay more attention.

[@Spitsz01]

The cheapest is S35VN in PE black, 127 Euro's.

[@DrFrankLondon]

Did u say 233$ , I would take the Maxace Balance CF M390 any day of the week... 😉😉❤️⚔️🔪

[@stignation]

Truth...❤️

[@aaronkahn-bork1120]

Wish they made a native without the back lock, I’d be all over that.

[@andyrichardson6188]

Several options with different locks that are close: Sage 5, 2, or 1, maybe the Para 3 (not as close as the Sage). For less money and less quality, the Efficient or the Alcyone. Maybe the Lil' Temperance or Lil' Native?

[@aaronkahn-bork1120]

Andy Richardson thanks, something about the native shape just speaks to me though. Next Spyderco on my wishlist is definitely the Shaman.

[@andyrichardson6188]

Aaron I get it. I was going based on specs. Just compared the two. The difference (imo) is the Spydie hump - Native doesn't have one and the Sage does. Aesthetically quite difference, and the Native is narrower in the pocket. Agree we need a Native sized/shaped blade with a different lock.

[@Adam.297]

Wait a minute... I am still relatively new to the channel, and I know that "USA, Earth" is something you say, but... its on the knife? Chicken or the egg?

[@NickShabazz]

Been there for many years. I got it from them.

[@Adam.297]

Gotcha. Don't own many Spydercos yet, so I was not too sure.

[@The4cp]

I've always wondered that myself. Maybe they know something we don't know! 😂

[@deanalbertson7203]

I think the blade stock is too thick for a small knife.

[@SirGalath]

It is ground pretty agressively to a thin edge. It is a great slicer i assure you.

[@MPerry-ox9qb]

US made Spyderco are just as good as the Taiwan made Spyderco. The plant is bigger in Taiwan, so they get to showcase their abilities a lot more.

[@MrWoodyBalto]

Finally... I have everything else. Now I can buy that spyderco with the inconvenient annoying lockback and Disappearing Flutes

[@MrRuination]

How is it inconvenient?

[@davethebarber62920]

5 years after this review, this knife is over $40 more.

[@nyccolm]

$400 Canadian and they couldn’t smooth the edges? Please.

[@JOSEPH-vs2gc]

Hey Nick, i have a suggestion, Can you PLEASE Cut stuff in your Reviews? ..you know like actual things, apples, cardboard, bacon.. anything. Cut something with the knives. Please! Just cut something. paper... anything

[@carlstanland5333]

Sometimes I rock back and forth gently for ten minutes...😞

[@knife-wife586]

I feel if you didn’t get it from Spyderco you would not have beat around the bush as much as you did. You where politely skirting around. There are Sooo many sharp edges with know thought to where or how to hold this knife and causing a painful indentions one could not possibly have use for this. Come on Nick you held back way to much lol this knife doesn’t make the cut. Lol

[@whereswill1]

$275 in '23

[@Spitsz01]

OK. 230 Bucks, mmm makes more sence compared to Europe.

[@bm2320]

I wish Spyderco sent me knives 😥

[@themawsjawz_9491]

Sunday mornings with Nick Shabazz and Tim Horton's. God what a white chick comment.

[@Spitsz01]

90 Bucks??? This knife costs 265 Euro's in The Netherlands!!! What a ripoff.

[@dr.oetqer]

The standard FRN s35vn/s30v model will cost you €127 in The Netherlands, this version is more expensive because of the materials Spyderco used. Either of the FRN, G10 and CF versions are great in my opinion.

[@bamabladez]

5 years later this thing is $260!!! And I'm actually thinking about buying.. can't blame it on our great President! 🤬

[@xDarkPrototypex]

"spyderco makes ugly knives"