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.
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.
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.)
@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.
@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).
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 UA-cam channels 🤔. Great video!
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.
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
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.
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.
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..
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.
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! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
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.
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 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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
@@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.
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!
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.
@@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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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)...
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
I love that the Pilar 3 was included. I don't usually carry budget D2 blades anymore, but the Pilar 3 is a notable exception. I know CRKT doesn't venture out of budget territory often, but I'd buy a 20cv or S35vn version of the Pilar III without a Second thought if they could hit the 90-125 dollar range.
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
The CRKT Pilar III is clearly a good all around EDC option / Para3 alternative, a little less refined but so less expensive. The Demko is my most favored alternative and one of my favorite knife period.
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...
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
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.
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.
I love/hate that the Para 3 was my first quality knife. Cheap Gerber and whatnot before. Every other knife I've purchased since, has ended up in storage and the P3 back in my pocket. It's such a great knife.
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
@@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.
For premium alternatives to the para three that retain the “fingers out of the way” mechanism, I’d say your best option is probably to modify a 20.5 and equip it with some more premium scales. Karbazdie fat carbon scales make for some pretty sweet upgrades. And there are some companies making aluminum and Ti offerings as well.
The Buck mini Spitfire and Spitfire line is all American made and cheaper in cost Than many of the Chinese models shown, plus it comes in some really cool colors . However the blade steel won't be as good as some of the high end knifes you showed.
For those who don’t like the width of Spyderco knives in the pocket, I recommend getting a Kizer sheepdog. One week of that and you’ll love carrying the tiny PM3 😊
Can't believe the sheepsfoot bladed Benchmade Griptilian didn't come up . I cut my teeth on the Spyderco endura about 30 years ago. Never looked back and loved it. When I finally had to be replaced, I discovered the grip with the spydie type hole. Best of both worlds, and I'd stack mine against the para 3.( I own a para 2)
I think the Drop Bear with Winter Storm Fat Carbon and Elmax steel is a great contender. One of my very favorite cost about $220 if I remember correctly.
I'm a business owner I normally carry a sodbuster sized gentleman's pen knife. But when the hard use starts like construction or landscaping I always pull out the PARA 3 for universal hard use.
DCA coming in with another banger of an idea; excited to see what is to come!
Spyderco makes some great knives....
@@mrgibbles09 your welcome Deputy Douchebag
I'm still waiting for the follow-up 😂 why finish it at "..."
@@lachlanlander6002I’ll give it a go: …if only they weren’t so damn expensive!
Yup 😊
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.
Ordered a sage 5 lw yesterday and it comes tomorrow in the mail, can't wait
Awesome video. Can't wait to see the iconic Morakniv Bushcraft knives and the alternatives. I'm loving all my Moras.
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.
I thought the same until I tried one.
That SOG is one of my favorite folders. Solid 💯👊
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.
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.)
@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.
@Dee Bee don’t worry. They’re not as people praise them to be
@@HammerSmashedFace92 oh yes they are.
@@jusme8060 nyet, its just a tool.
@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).
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 UA-cam channels 🤔. Great video!
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.
That’s the same solid choice I made.
I've had some pretty cool knives over the last 35 or so years the para three quickly became my favorite
Great segment. Para3 is certainly iconic. Great work
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
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.
The Cold Steel would be my choice. Very nice. And a good price.
Yooo really excited for this series
Same
The Native 5 in LW or with liners would make a solid alternative to the Para 3.
This is going to be a great series! DCA and the KC crew keep rocking it!
Nice idea for new series. I love that you can still find new ideas.
I love my Para3 LightWeight ! Definitely high in the rotation ! I actually prefer the FRN scales to the G10.
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.
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..
Yes, except buying one gives money to the CCP. 🤮
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.
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.
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! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
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.
How many years did it take to develop the splendid expertise you display? Super work, thanks.
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.
I mean besides the Para 2, I would say that's an understatement, there is nothing like it.
@@mad0uche 3
@@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.
Sage 5 would float your boat then. I’d go Sage5, para 3, many other knives, PM2( way down the list for edc).
@@shamitoson I have a Sage 5 lightweight, it’s a good option too.
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?
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.
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.
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.
@@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.
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!
Own too many Para 3 and Para 3 Lightweights. Love them. Great idea for a series.
I ordered the PM3 with FRN. scales in dark blue yesterday!!
Great review, thank you!!
This is a really good idea for a segment. Keep up the awesome work.
I’m surprised the Byrd meadowlark didn’t get mentioned as a budget option
Good idea.
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.
^^^^^^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.
@@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.
Lol nah
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
You guys are the ultimate knife nerd channel. I love it so much. I feel so heard!!! lmao
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Yeah, for those that care about deep carry. I never have. I like the stock clip on the para 3.
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.
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)...
Some manufacturers think to damn highly of their knives. No pocket knife is worth 300 400 dollars.
Best idea for a series. Do every icon!
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.
Here too, my m390 is hard not to pick up everyday
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.
Good video! I loved your performance in Talladega Nights!
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
Love the channel
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
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.
Well this video made me order my 5th Para 3, DAMN YOU!
My Para 2 is serving me well.
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.
Have had my spyderco efficient for almost a year. Love it an it is my go to knife. It’s my every day carry.
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.
Fantastic idea for a series!
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.
Beat the Icon.
Q: Is there an alternative to DCA?
A: No.
You flatter me sir -DCA
What a great video idea. Nice picks for comparison too. I own several of these....no shortage of good knives to choose from.
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.
Great idea for a series love it. Please do shaman next!
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.
If and when they learn to heat treat sure until then nope
@@Jd-ql3nh Hmmmm. I shall look into that. In the meantime...still no issues with my own HB's in D2. Homework time...
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.
Excellent review 👍🍻
I love that the Pilar 3 was included. I don't usually carry budget D2 blades anymore, but the Pilar 3 is a notable exception. I know CRKT doesn't venture out of budget territory often, but I'd buy a 20cv or S35vn version of the Pilar III without a Second thought if they could hit the 90-125 dollar range.
Me too! I’m up for it!
Sounds like this is going to be a great series DCA!
Yup, pm2 😊love the para 3’s. Just the blade availability is great and the ergos are top notch for a smaller knife 👍🏻
I feel lik Hogue K320 or Ritter Mini might be similar for price and blade steel ergo as well
Nice List. Yeah Vox plays so much in the sub 3 category. Pillar 3 D2 is my favorite fancy "Beater"
Can you do a video comparison of the griptilian vs the bug out? Full sizes and the minis?! Thanks!
Really nice video, big thanks!
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
The CRKT Pilar III is clearly a good all around EDC option / Para3 alternative, a little less refined but so less expensive. The Demko is my most favored alternative and one of my favorite knife period.
I love my PM2 blackened blade and copper scales. 👍
Ohhh nice. Good stuff.
Do not like the way it opens. I know I’m in the minority. I’d rather a benchmade
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...
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
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.
Brilliant idea for a series!!!!!!
I love a lot of these knives on the table
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.
I own a PM2 and love it. Just recently went for the benchmade mini grip over the Para 3. I’m very happy
Got a light weight one coming tomorrow
I love/hate that the Para 3 was my first quality knife. Cheap Gerber and whatnot before. Every other knife I've purchased since, has ended up in storage and the P3 back in my pocket. It's such a great knife.
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
Upgraded?
@@Cadwallader38 just meaning the newer ones, made with better materials. Aus8>cts-xhp>s35 etc
@@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.
Hey DCA, you keep overlooking the N in BD1N steel.
It is a different steel with more edge retention and toughness than BD1.
There is literally nothing groundbreaking with knives for many many decades and the 20 yr old ones still work great if maintained and oiled annually .
What if your stuck wit 3 inches
Love my CRKT Pilar D2
For premium alternatives to the para three that retain the “fingers out of the way” mechanism, I’d say your best option is probably to modify a 20.5 and equip it with some more premium scales. Karbazdie fat carbon scales make for some pretty sweet upgrades. And there are some companies making aluminum and Ti offerings as well.
Oh if you are thinking of a exclusive for the future a para 2 salt, id buy 2-3 for leaving in various packs.
Para 2 or Para 3 salt with magnacut....
The Buck mini Spitfire and Spitfire line is all American made and cheaper in cost Than many of the Chinese models shown, plus it comes in some really cool colors . However the blade steel won't be as good as some of the high end knifes you showed.
Had a benchmade bugout and buck crosslock for years as my edc, but the Para 3 is my edc beyond anything
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.
For those who don’t like the width of Spyderco knives in the pocket, I recommend getting a Kizer sheepdog. One week of that and you’ll love carrying the tiny PM3 😊
Can't believe the sheepsfoot bladed Benchmade Griptilian didn't come up . I cut my teeth on the Spyderco endura about 30 years ago. Never looked back and loved it. When I finally had to be replaced, I discovered the grip with the spydie type hole.
Best of both worlds, and I'd stack mine against the para 3.( I own a para 2)
Too bad it's not available thru the Benchmade knife builder site.
I think the Drop Bear with Winter Storm Fat Carbon and Elmax steel is a great contender. One of my very favorite cost about $220 if I remember correctly.
I'm a business owner I normally carry a sodbuster sized gentleman's pen knife. But when the hard use starts like construction or landscaping I always pull out the PARA 3 for universal hard use.