Founded in the late 1970s, Spyderco Knives revolutionized the knife industry with the iconic round hole and pocket clip design. From Golden, Colorado to global collaborations, their knives blend everyday functionality with precision engineering—and KnifeJoy is proud to feature exclusive Spyderco models you won’t find anywhere else.
A Legacy That Started with a Sharpener
Hey folks—Jade here with KnifeJoy, just in from the road to talk about one of the most recognizable brands in the knife world: Spyderco.
Spyderco started back in 1976, not with a knife, but with a sharpener. Soon after, around ’81 or ’82, they launched their first knife model—The Worker. From that point on, Spyderco became a driving force in modern knife design.
Two of their biggest contributions to the knife industry?
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The round hole (or “Spydie hole”) for easy one-handed opening.
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The attached pocket clip—a now-standard feature Spyderco pioneered.
Before Spyderco, those two design elements simply didn’t exist in the production knife world.
Made in Golden, Colorado—And Around the World
Spyderco’s U.S. headquarters is in Golden, Colorado, and you’ll see that proudly stamped on many of their blades. In fact, they’re celebrating a big anniversary at their Golden factory next year, and we’ll be there to join the fun.
But Spyderco is also a global manufacturer, with facilities in Taiwan, China, and Italy, depending on the model. Each location specializes in certain materials or collaborations, allowing the brand to offer a wide range of knives at different price points—all built to their exacting standards.
Function Meets Form: The Native and Beyond
Let’s start with one of their most classic models—the Spyderco Native. This U.S.-made lockback folder offers four clip mounting positions, letting you choose tip-up or tip-down, left- or right-handed carry. It’s built with comfort and safety in mind, featuring:
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A recessed lock so you won’t accidentally release it.
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A finger choil for choking up safely.
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The signature Spydie hole for smooth opening with either hand.
And yes—if you’ve got the wrist for it, you can try the “Spydie flick.”
The Manix XL and Bodacious: Big Blades, Bigger Performance
Moving up in size, the Manix XL brings serious cutting power with a large, flat-ground blade and a secure grip that locks your hand in place. Its bearing lock system makes it ambidextrous and smooth to operate.
Then there’s the Bodacious—a full-size folder with sleek G-10 handle scales, a tip-up carry clip, and a compression lock for one-handed closing. It’s slim, strong, and built for performance, with the kind of reliability Spyderco fans expect.
A KnifeJoy Exclusive: The Slysz Bowie
Now for something special—our very own KnifeJoy Exclusive Spyderco Slysz Bowie.
This model, designed by Marcin Slysz, is instantly recognizable with its Bowie-style, flat-ground blade, titanium handle, and G-10 backspacer. It’s one of the few Spydercos that features a frame lock, complete with a lock bar insert that doubles as an over-travel stop—preventing the lockbar from bending beyond its range when disengaging the lock.
It’s an elegant mix of performance and craftsmanship—and one of the reasons we’re proud to work with Spyderco on exclusives like this.
(Fun fact: Marcin Slysz also designed the beloved Spydiechef—another KnifeJoy exclusive!)
Spotlight on the Paramilitary and Salt Series
You can’t talk about Spyderco without mentioning the Paramilitary 2 and Paramilitary 3. Originally designed as more tactical, duty-ready versions of their core lineup, these knives are now fan favorites for everyday carry. They’ve evolved over the years, offering improved ergonomics, premium steels, and countless color and handle variations.
And for anyone working or adventuring near water, Spyderco’s Salt Series is a game changer. These knives use ultra corrosion-resistant steels and hardware, making them some of the most rust-proof knives on the market. Perfect for boaters, anglers, and anyone who lives where it’s humid.
Why Spyderco Stands Out
From lockbacks to compression locks, and from affordable production folders to high-end collaborations, Spyderco offers one of the largest selections of knives in the world. No other brand combines such variety with the same level of precision and usability.
Jade’s been carrying Spyderco knives since the late 1980s—proof that once you start using one, it’s hard to switch.
KnifeJoy and Spyderco: A Trusted Partnership
We’re proud to say that KnifeJoy has one of the most diverse Spyderco selections you’ll find anywhere. Between our exclusives, limited releases, and long-time bestsellers, there’s always something new to explore.
Whether you’re after a Paramilitary 2, a Salt Series workhorse, or a KnifeJoy Exclusive Slysz Bowie, we’ve got your next Spyderco waiting.
Be sure to check out our Spyderco brand page on KnifeJoy.com to see what’s in stock—and keep an eye out for future exclusives and anniversary updates from Golden, Colorado.