Easily one of the most anticipated products
in Spyderco's history, the Para 3 is the latest generation of their
immensely popular Paramilitary family of folding knives. It traces its
history all the way back to the first-generation Paramilitary model,
which was introduced in 2004 and even further to that knife's
inspiration: the iconic Military Model.
The original design intent
of the Paramilitary was to provide the same proven reliability and
cutting performance of the Military but in a more compact, easy-to-carry
package. The design also showcased Spyderco's patented Compression
Lock—a high-strength lock mechanism housed in the spine of the handle
that offered a number of significant advantages over the Military's
liner lock.
In keeping with Spyderco's deep commitment to Constant
Quality Improvement (C.Q.I.), in 2010 the Paramilitary was redesigned
to yield the Paramilitary 2. This second-generation design incorporated
an improved lock detent, refined ergonomics, countersunk handle and
pivot screws, and a four-position clip that supports all possible carry
configurations. These enhancements quickly established the "Para 2" as
one of Spyderco's most popular and in-demand models and, to many end
users, the "perfect" folding knife. While it was significantly smaller
than the Military Model that inspired it, for some customers it was
still larger than what they could comfortably or legally carry. Based on
that feedback, Spyderco went back to the drawing board once again to
distil all the features, benefits, and performance of the Paramilitary 2
into a "sub-compact" package built around a three-inch blade. The
result is the Para 3.
Although clearly based on the Paramilitary
2, the Para 3 was not named the "Paramilitary 3" because its smaller
size qualifies it as a different knife design. Similarly, the "3" in its
name actually reflects its three-inch blade length rather than
identifying it as a third-generation of the Paramilitary design. While
its pedigree is unmistakable, the Para 3 (and its model and SKU number)
has its own distinct "identity" as a Spyderco product.
With that
said, the Para 3 does faithfully retain all the defining features of the
best-selling Paramilitary 2, but in a smaller, even handier package.
Its three-inch blade is precision machined from premium CPM-S45VN
stainless steel and features a full-flat grind for superior edge
geometry and low-friction cutting performance. Its oversized Trademark
Round Hole proudly announces the knife's pedigree and is easily
accessible from either side to allow swift, ambidextrous, one-handed
opening.
The lightweight, open-backed handle is built on a
framework of stout stainless steel liners nested within textured G10
scales. This refined construction style maximizes both structural
strength and ergonomics while keeping the handle slim and
pocket-friendly. It's also the foundation of the knife's patented
Compression Lock mechanism, which provides exceptional lock strength,
yet allows easy one-handed closing without placing your fingers in the
path of the blade's edge. A streamlined four-position hourglass clip and
a generously sized lanyard hole round out the design, offering a choice
of left or right-side tip-up or tip-down carry and allowing the easy
attachment of lanyards or fobs.
The Para 3 is a remarkably refined
folding knife with a distinguished history. It's also a shining example
of our tireless quest for perfection and our deep commitment to meeting
our customers' needs.
Specifications
- Blade Length: 3.0"
- Closed Length: 4.27"
- Overall Length: 7.27"
- Cutting Edge: 2.63"
- Blade Thickness: 0.150"
- Blade Material: CPM-S45VN Stainless Steel
- Blade Style: Clip Point
- Blade Grind: Full Flat
- Blade Finish: Black DLC
- Blade Edge: Plain
- Handle Material: G10
- Handle Color: Black
- Locking Mechanism: Compression
- Pocket Clip: Tip-Up/Down, Left/Right Carry
- Model Number: C223GPBK
- Model Name: Para 3
- Weight: 3.4 oz.
- Made in the USA