Just got my second Shaman today (05/04/2023). Unlike my first one, this one came perfectly centered, had no blade movement and was drop shut out of the box. Loving it. 😊😊
I agree with everything you said on this knife and It's been my EDC for at least two months. The knives you had on the table are my favorites and this replaced my PM2. The thing I love about this knife is that it has all the great ergos and speed and yet it is substantial. It's a workhouse and a great self-defense weapon.
Ed Draper once you have it in hand, the PM2 seems dated. It's a funny thing, but this also beat most other knives for my "knife I really want to carry to use."
You prolly dont care but does someone know of a way to log back into an instagram account? I was dumb forgot my password. I love any tricks you can give me.
@Randy Bowie Thanks for your reply. I got to the site through google and im in the hacking process atm. I see it takes a while so I will get back to you later with my results.
Great vid and couldn’t agree more! The Shaman is awesome! Keep up the good work! There have been so many good knives in 2017 it’s hard to keep track. The Shaman is on the top of the Spyderco stack for sure.
Couldn't agree more. I've had a manix 2xl for awhile and though I like it very much, it's just a little too big for me as is the military. The pm2 is a bonafide classic. But I recently got a sprint run manix 2 in s90v, burl g10. Fell in love with it. Since I want to keep that knife pristine I went and got a manix 2, s30v, g10 as a user. It's now my second favorite spyderco after the Shaman. I put an mxg gear deep pocket clip on the Shaman which made it even better. I'll be all over a carbon fiber version when it's released.
The Shaman is my new favorite. I love the pm2, but this knife is superior. Weight is the only issue. I'd like to see it with a thinner blade more like the pm2, but still very manageable the way it is.
Great video, Doc. I think this Shaman is calling my name - I need to get my hands on one of these when I get the opportunity, it checks all the boxes and the only real compromise is weight.
Hi Doc, thanks for the review. I agree with all your thoughts on this beautiful knife. I brought mine to the operating room and removed most of the offending "bump" and now it's perfect. I just have to cut a few jimping grooves to the area that I smoothed out.
Spot on Doc, only thing that stop me form buy the Shamsn was the blade steel. 👍👍👍 As soon as Spyderco does sprint runs with higher grade steel, and handle materials, WOW. The shape and finally, new designs coming out Syderco beside the cookie cutter look of their other knives. Syperco, listen to the Doctor's advice . 👍👍👍
Great review.. It's like a combo of Spydercos best knives (PM2, Manix 2, Native, Sage) rolled into one.. I think it was a smart move on their part making a heavier, harder use knife.. They don't have a lot of them..This will sell like crazy..
My thin-tipped PM2 reduced to the ranks of an historic collectable within two years of its purchase? I suspect you're right! Those Glessers are very cunning chaps. The Shaman ticks a lot of the right boxes for a sturdy, remote area, work horse. Despite the fact that the G10 Manix-2 is probably the most affordable of this trio, with an interesting lock, it has never really appealed to me. I prefer the subtly different blade profile of the Native-5. The Shaman looks every inch a beefed up version of the Native-5. With a gorgeously contoured handle. I agree with you about some micarta handles. The current stealth grey would instantly vanish in the local bush where I live. Some high visibility colours would be a treat. Happy New Year to All. ;-)
Well said! While I love my PM2, I have seen many of the tips chipped off from very light use. The Shaman inspires confidence for tip use, and if you can carry the extra ounces, is a better choice for a general use knife.
I noticed as you were flicking it closed, you would move your index finger. This, along with the pocket clip issue, and the knife will be even greater! Great review Doc 👨⚕️👏 ⬅️(there’s a doctor emoji👍)
Spot on Doc! For the price I´d like to have CF and a super steel. Also will wait for a version with a smaller "chin" that makes sharpening further down easier and eliminates the pinching problem that for me is a deal breaker to replace my PM2 or ZT562CF as EDC.
This knife does have a ton of potential. You are right, once it comes in various steels and handle colors/materials they will sell a ton. I just hope enough people buy the current plain version so spyderco has a reason to make more variations.
Just got my Shaman. Absolutely love this knife. I have 3 knocks on it. 1st is that nub that protrudes into the compression lock, 2nd are the sharpness inside of the scale. If you grip it hard for long periods it can start to feel it dig in your fingers. 3rd is....I have xl hands so I wish the tail end of the handle maintained a bit more bulk to fill the hand a little more i stead of tapering off so much.
Doctor Frunkey Its probably just the fat from my chubby fingers then sticking between the scales lol but Ive sanded the sharpness down a touch so theres no issue. Agreed the PM2 has such a huge cult following but I think the Shaman is better & will eventually become a Spyderco classic.
Great review! Spyderco has had this issue with a few knives lately, where they've released what I would call "enthusiast/aficionado" knives which would seem to mainly appeal to knife knuts, but they've been released in "plain" materials instead of using state-of-the-art steels and premium/unique scale materials. As a result, I keep hearing enthusiasts on the forums (myself included) say "I really like this design, but I'm going to wait for a sprint". I guess the main expense in manufacturing a new design is in the engineering and tooling, so it must make sense to release a "vanilla" version first before investing in a run with more expensive materials...but it just seems like some of these highly anticipated "afi" designs would sell out immediately if they were released in a small run of premium materials, as long as they didn't end up costing $400. Then again, it's easy to manage someone else's business from my couch. :) Of course, I realize we have an embarrassment of riches in the knife market right now to be able to "complain" about S30V and contoured G10, but as much as I want this knife, I just hesitate to buy it if there may be a "grail" version available in a few months out of nowhere.
Tim Lara it is funny how the community had such expectations. This knife is user perfection in this configuration. In higher spec it will be one of the best knives...period.
Very good review. The Shaman won’t be in my collection until it goes on a diet. It’s nearly 1.5 oz up on the PM2. I’m thinking it’s more of a threat to ZT perhaps? CF and 20cv might make it a 0562 killer, but I think the PM2 will survive. ;-)
bought a Shaman in december of '21, loved it so much I ended up getting maroon canvas micarta handles and a lynch clich... just now im finding out about the Lil' Native and how nice it would be to have a "mini-me" for my Shaman
Best review I’ve seen yet. This answered all the questions I had as a Manix 2 fan boy lol. I’m afraid my love will fade for the Manix if I get this in my hand 😅
Good review. A word of caution, though: the thinner knive's blade, the better it cuts if sharpened well of course then a thicker blade knife. Even though some may rightly argue that a thicker blade is much stronger.
I love the Shaman. Awesome knife, but that choil bump is a little annoying. I did see someone in the FB Spyderco group who ground it off. I think it looks good without it. Plus it may help when doing cuts onto a flat surface like a cutting board. Considering doing it myself.
Definitely a good looking knife. The only doubt I have is the closed width. It seems like they could have made it a little bit more narrow. Thanks doc!
I’d agree with the poster below about it competing with the Manix. The PM2 is an iconic knife, and no amount of objective reasoning will dent its reputation. I think that both the PM2 and the Manix have a better handles (rear portion) for a lot of people. Lastly, the PM2 and Manix are available with S110V. Now I have to look on Amazon....lol! P.S. I own several PM2 knives, but never carry one. I like the Domino.
The PM2 will never be "killed". It is a venerable knife and close to perfect. Honestly, I prefer the Shaman in almost every regard. Ergos, blade, action. And the sprints are coming.
Great review. I like that you have no problem regrinding your blades. Hopefully you will grind off that finger choil nub. I think the blade stock is a little thick. People that buy Spyderco's, buy them to slice. That and pocket jewelry. Making this more robust does not make it any stronger, it's a folder. I haven't got it in hand yet, but I think the PM2 still wins out.
Jameson Cross just wait till you hold it. And thicker blade stock does make the blade stronger, but perhaps not the knife as a whole. Thanks for your comments and support! I actually sold this...
Since the release of this knife I've been lusting for it. I've always been a fan of the PM2 and it was a knife on my bucket list but this just became my new spyderco grail. I will definitely be saving up to buy this. Not sure if I'll get the s30v or wait for a sprint run but either way, I'm sure it will be a great piece.
I will just as soon as I can save up roughly 200$ I'm in Canada, so conversion of currency is unpleasant, and finding it in a retail store around here is really hard. Not too many Canadian online retailers either. Other than warriors and wonders, I don't know of any other sites that don't try to rip us off
I think the shaman is for those who love their manix 2 but prefer the compression lock over the axis lock style. Blade shape is damn near identical. I prefer the pm2 blade shape I think it’s a gorgeous blade shape.
Hey Dr FRUNKY great vid as always. Does the unflush backspacer bother you? Did they fix that from the first releases?. That would bother me because way cheaper knives have better fit backspacers. How's the backspacer on the one you have? I wouldn't want them to just grind off the choil because there has to be some kind of guard imo
Jonathan York the backspacer isn't flush on purpose. To me, it is of no consequence either visually or ergonomically. It provides traction in the fat pad of the palm.
I was going to say the same thing as Doc. There is no reason for it to be flush. It wasn’t designed that way and It shouldn’t be. It’s fine just the way it is. If they would have used pillars instead of a backspacer you wouldn’t have expected them to be flush. Think of the backspacer as a counterweight to the heavy blade and maybe it won’t bother you..;)
I would love a micarta, S35VN or CTS-HXP for the added toughness over s30/90/110v. It seems big and beatery and I think would be better with tough steel.
I hope this msg finds you Doctor. I've really enjoyed your videos! It's 2022 and I'm a Spyderco Fan Boy now. What company or/ Website do you go to get the deep pocket carry clips Please! Thank you!
If the Shaman fills the need the PM2 does (and does it better) then we must acknowledge that. For PM2 adherents, the five stages of grief must be observed.
There will be much hate spewed at me for this Diagnosis. But I truly feel this improves an all the shortcomings of the PM2. Yes, it's heavier, but it's sooo damn good.
I like it, except for the smooth handles. If I'd realized how smooth they were, would not have gotten it. I carry left side sometimes. Smooth scales with dry hands, using the left hand only, pretty much ensures it's gonna go flying when you do the little down stroke to get the blade to swing closed. All I really wanted was exactly a pm2 with a drop point. Love the pm2, but prefer drop point blades. I'm not gutting anything, so I'd rather have the extra strength rather than better piercing.
What do I think of the Shaman? I think it's the best folding knife ever. Sure, there are more expensive knives with better materials but in the end, I don't think I need anything more than what the Shaman has to offer. It is way more than enough for me. Not the best slicer but still excellent. I love my Shaman.
There is no PM2 killer. The only thing they can improve on the PM2 is adding a free float stop pin from the para3. And a deep-carry clip from the factory.
Have you tried a Caribbean Salt? I’ve been looking for another compression lock knife, but some of the new ones have this weird interference thing going on with tabs and choils. Thanks!
Another great diagnostic thanks to you Frank ! Keep up with good containte are you considering any flashlight to review would love to see a foursevens paladin 😅😉
el ouafi taharrast I have only done a few lights, and I feel I've found the perfect ones in the Olight S series. But I'm open to people sending them...
Doctor Frunkey oh great im building my flashlight collection so when i get something realy intresting i would send it your way 😉 im agree the s series of olight are great i have a s1 ti my self 😉
PM2 is lofty company. But I'll take your word on it. I think I will wait for the Shaman 2 though for the potential choil alteration and/or a sprint run with carbon fibre. Thanks!
James Min the PM2 is, for me, much less enjoyable to carry. The squared off handle, wider handle at the heel, and textured G10 are less pocket friendly. To me, the weight difference is not quite as noticeable as these other points.
You guys are crazy. The choil going into the compression lock area is straight up ugly and a deal breaker for me. Especially with this not being the first knife they've made this error on. I think it's a cool knife with some great design elements (those handle scales!) and while I do enjoy beefy knives, at the end of the day the PM2 and Manix 2 are better slicers, smaller in the pocket, and lighter in weight while still having fantastic ergos. Not to mention that the Shaman is the most expensive of the bunch. An intriguing knife in Spyderco's lineup, but a PM2 killer it is not.
Spyderco is really crapping the bed with their pricing. I like spyderco. But the quality, materials, fit and finish, etc that you can get for your dollar these days.... is stupendous. And I just don't see spyderco keeping up with this trend.
I’m a lefty and I carry my knife on my right side due to my handgun on my left side (law enforcement officers since 1984). Knife is for weapon retention and general task. I’ve practiced for years using the knife right handed. Just a suggestion.
I thought the same, but then I read in the forums that they under estimated the cost of the g10 handles and had to raise price in order to compensate once they recrunched the numbers. I bought a sprint run pm2 recently, but wasn't happy with the quality and refunded it. Wrote to them about it, didn't expect anything and not only did I get a reply back. They sent me a package with a ton of Spyderco nicknacks and goodies for free.
Chris Howard I just got the Gayle Bradley 2 for Christmas and I’m loving the carbon fibre over the G10. I think it looks great and has tons of gripitude as Shabazz says..lol. As long as the carbon fibre doesn’t separate I’m good to go.
Doctor Frunkey very nice look forward to spyderco taking so more of my money I'll have to get that one for sure. Spyderco has fallen off my radar the past 2 or 3 years they have brought me back with this one
Chris Howard it takes a special Spydie to catch me attention. This may be their best overall knife. Years of CQI and Sal's genius really shine through here.
Doctor Frunkey I could really tell it impressed you and the reason I'll buy one when a sprint comes around. I respect and trust your opinion you've never let me down but your costing me way too much money 😂
IMHO ALL knife blades MUST have a sharpening choil. Some companies have it o their knives. Keeping recasso's and nubs get in the way of use and sharpening. Obvioiusly. The one aspect of Spyderco blades I'm surprised has remained. I know Eric's thinking...he metions it on their "vreakdown videos". totally disagree with him. Otherwise they seem to be great knives in design.
NOT a PM2 killer, not even close, PM2 is a much better EDC, Shaman is beefy but who needs it out and about everyday. If I need a meaty blade Ill pack my Bravo 1. The PM2 blade is so much more useful all day long and gos unnoticed in my pocket.
Just got my second Shaman today (05/04/2023). Unlike my first one, this one came perfectly centered, had no blade movement and was drop shut out of the box. Loving it. 😊😊
This has quickly became my favorite knife. I started collecting them. Love the Shaman.
I agree with everything you said on this knife and It's been my EDC for at least two months. The knives you had on the table are my favorites and this replaced my PM2. The thing I love about this knife is that it has all the great ergos and speed and yet it is substantial. It's a workhouse and a great self-defense weapon.
Ed Draper once you have it in hand, the PM2 seems dated. It's a funny thing, but this also beat most other knives for my "knife I really want to carry to use."
You prolly dont care but does someone know of a way to log back into an instagram account?
I was dumb forgot my password. I love any tricks you can give me.
@Gianni Decker Instablaster :)
@Randy Bowie Thanks for your reply. I got to the site through google and im in the hacking process atm.
I see it takes a while so I will get back to you later with my results.
@Randy Bowie It did the trick and I finally got access to my account again. Im so happy:D
Thanks so much, you saved my ass !
Great vid and couldn’t agree more! The Shaman is awesome! Keep up the good work! There have been so many good knives in 2017 it’s hard to keep track. The Shaman is on the top of the Spyderco stack for sure.
Chingus696 for sure! You'll enjoy my video tomorrow!
Couldn't agree more. I've had a manix 2xl for awhile and though I like it very much, it's just a little too big for me as is the military. The pm2 is a bonafide classic. But I recently got a sprint run manix 2 in s90v, burl g10. Fell in love with it. Since I want to keep that knife pristine I went and got a manix 2, s30v, g10 as a user. It's now my second favorite spyderco after the Shaman. I put an mxg gear deep pocket clip on the Shaman which made it even better. I'll be all over a carbon fiber version when it's released.
The Shaman is my new favorite. I love the pm2, but this knife is superior. Weight is the only issue. I'd like to see it with a thinner blade more like the pm2, but still very manageable the way it is.
PM2 is close to perfect ergonomically and the compression lock is the icing on the cake.
Great video, Doc. I think this Shaman is calling my name - I need to get my hands on one of these when I get the opportunity, it checks all the boxes and the only real compromise is weight.
Daniel Hawse it's a winner. You gotta get one in hand to really understand.
Hi Doc, thanks for the review. I agree with all your thoughts on this beautiful knife. I brought mine to the operating room and removed most of the offending "bump" and now it's perfect. I just have to cut a few jimping grooves to the area that I smoothed out.
gonshocks It needs a good Dremel-ing
gonshocks but don’t you like the large kick when the knife is opened? How can you call that perfect kick a ‘bump’...
Good morning Doc., a really comparison and final diagnosis. That pinching tab would drive me nuts.
Thanks for sharing, have a great New Years.
Nick Kaz it's honestly a minor thing but noticeable.
Thanks Doc., for the heads up about the tab.
Spot on Doc, only thing that stop me form buy the Shamsn was the blade steel. 👍👍👍 As soon as Spyderco does sprint runs with higher grade steel, and handle materials, WOW. The shape and finally, new designs coming out Syderco beside the cookie cutter look of their other knives. Syperco, listen to the Doctor's advice . 👍👍👍
Paul Jenkins this knife is just excellent all around. In CF and M4 I'll lose my mind.
Great review.. It's like a combo of Spydercos best knives (PM2, Manix 2, Native, Sage) rolled into one.. I think it was a smart move on their part making a heavier, harder use knife.. They don't have a lot of them..This will sell like crazy..
Thomas Landers yessir. And thanks!
Great video Doc! Love my PM2 but will wait for later version of Shaman. Those potential Sprint Runs sound very exciting!
blitzbbffl you will not be disappointed
My thin-tipped PM2 reduced to the ranks of an historic collectable within two years of its purchase? I suspect you're right! Those Glessers are very cunning chaps. The Shaman ticks a lot of the right boxes for a sturdy, remote area, work horse. Despite the fact that the G10 Manix-2 is probably the most affordable of this trio, with an interesting lock, it has never really appealed to me. I prefer the subtly different blade profile of the Native-5. The Shaman looks every inch a beefed up version of the Native-5. With a gorgeously contoured handle. I agree with you about some micarta handles. The current stealth grey would instantly vanish in the local bush where I live. Some high visibility colours would be a treat. Happy New Year to All. ;-)
Well said! While I love my PM2, I have seen many of the tips chipped off from very light use. The Shaman inspires confidence for tip use, and if you can carry the extra ounces, is a better choice for a general use knife.
I noticed as you were flicking it closed, you would move your index finger. This, along with the pocket clip issue, and the knife will be even greater! Great review Doc 👨⚕️👏 ⬅️(there’s a doctor emoji👍)
perrytrucker honestly the choil thing is a small issue, but noticeable from the company most known for excellence in ergonomics.
Spot on Doc! For the price I´d like to have CF and a super steel. Also will wait for a version with a smaller "chin" that makes sharpening further down easier and eliminates the pinching problem that for me is a deal breaker to replace my PM2 or ZT562CF as EDC.
This knife does have a ton of potential. You are right, once it comes in various steels and handle colors/materials they will sell a ton. I just hope enough people buy the current plain version so spyderco has a reason to make more variations.
JC Superstars this knife was always meant to be CF and S90V. It's coming. Just a matter of "when" not "if".
Just got my Shaman. Absolutely love this knife. I have 3 knocks on it. 1st is that nub that protrudes into the compression lock, 2nd are the sharpness inside of the scale. If you grip it hard for long periods it can start to feel it dig in your fingers. 3rd is....I have xl hands so I wish the tail end of the handle maintained a bit more bulk to fill the hand a little more i stead of tapering off so much.
I've heard a few people complain about the scale sharpness, but I never felt it even once. But I agree on all points. I still prefer this to PM2.
Doctor Frunkey Its probably just the fat from my chubby fingers then sticking between the scales lol but Ive sanded the sharpness down a touch so theres no issue.
Agreed the PM2 has such a huge cult following but I think the Shaman is better & will eventually become a Spyderco classic.
I love the compression lock, and the contoured g10 is sexy. The knife is bigger than what I need, but it looks like a winner.
Peter Galione it's chunky but no more obtrusive than PM2. Absolute winner.
Great review! Spyderco has had this issue with a few knives lately, where they've released what I would call "enthusiast/aficionado" knives which would seem to mainly appeal to knife knuts, but they've been released in "plain" materials instead of using state-of-the-art steels and premium/unique scale materials. As a result, I keep hearing enthusiasts on the forums (myself included) say "I really like this design, but I'm going to wait for a sprint". I guess the main expense in manufacturing a new design is in the engineering and tooling, so it must make sense to release a "vanilla" version first before investing in a run with more expensive materials...but it just seems like some of these highly anticipated "afi" designs would sell out immediately if they were released in a small run of premium materials, as long as they didn't end up costing $400. Then again, it's easy to manage someone else's business from my couch. :)
Of course, I realize we have an embarrassment of riches in the knife market right now to be able to "complain" about S30V and contoured G10, but as much as I want this knife, I just hesitate to buy it if there may be a "grail" version available in a few months out of nowhere.
Tim Lara it is funny how the community had such expectations. This knife is user perfection in this configuration. In higher spec it will be one of the best knives...period.
Very good review. The Shaman won’t be in my collection until it goes on a diet. It’s nearly 1.5 oz up on the PM2. I’m thinking it’s more of a threat to ZT perhaps? CF and 20cv might make it a 0562 killer, but I think the PM2 will survive. ;-)
Jim M at 5.2oz, it's heavy for some. I'm not sure about plans for a LW model, but that could be incredible.
20cv + Micarta = many many purchases !!
Great review! Hopefully one day will get my hands on one.
ntrubldeep highly recommended. Theu are coming availabke on secondary market now for a little less.
Spot on. Its a compelling knife but I'll wait for it to receive a bit more refinement and more interesting materials before I snap it up.
Chris Allison not a bad choice. But highlt recommended to all knife people. This could easily be someone's "one and only".
bought a Shaman in december of '21, loved it so much I ended up getting maroon canvas micarta handles and a lynch clich... just now im finding out about the Lil' Native and how nice it would be to have a "mini-me" for my Shaman
Best review I’ve seen yet. This answered all the questions I had as a Manix 2 fan boy lol. I’m afraid my love will fade for the Manix if I get this in my hand 😅
Chase Perkins thank you! This knife is the best of all worlds. Highly recommended!
Doctor Frunkey Definitely gonna have to pick one up
Good review.
A word of caution, though: the thinner knive's blade, the better it cuts if sharpened well of course then a thicker blade knife. Even though some may rightly argue that a thicker blade is much stronger.
Love the review Doc I've become a fan of Spyderco over the last two years thank you for sharing iam definitely a shaman fan have a happy New year's 🖖
James Case thank you my friend, same to you!
I absolutely agree with you on all fronts, yesss please on every recommendation relative to the construction and or blade steels..
I love the Shaman. Awesome knife, but that choil bump is a little annoying. I did see someone in the FB Spyderco group who ground it off. I think it looks good without it. Plus it may help when doing cuts onto a flat surface like a cutting board. Considering doing it myself.
Michael I didn't do it to this one, but I'm gonna end up doing that to my next one.
Definitely a good looking knife. The only doubt I have is the closed width. It seems like they could have made it a little bit more narrow. Thanks doc!
49Giants the same issue with all the "humped" spydies.
Doctor Frunkey right lol. I have a manix 2 xl and it’s crazy wide. I appreciate your videos and awesome content my friend. Happy new year
Doctor Frunkey right lol. I have a manix 2 xl and it’s crazy wide. I appreciate your videos and awesome content my friend. Happy new year
49Giants 👊👊🍻🍻
Have one and love it.. version 2 maybe soften the spidey hole where it meets the grind and flush the spacer with the handles...
this will be the first and only spyderco knife i buy... cant wait to collect em all [just the sprint runs]
sterls you are missing out on quite a few excellent knives. But if you only get one, this is my new #1 recommendation.
I’d agree with the poster below about it competing with the Manix. The PM2 is an iconic knife, and no amount of objective reasoning will dent its reputation. I think that both the PM2 and the Manix have a better handles (rear portion) for a lot of people. Lastly, the PM2 and Manix are available with S110V. Now I have to look on Amazon....lol!
P.S. I own several PM2 knives, but never carry one. I like the Domino.
The PM2 will never be "killed". It is a venerable knife and close to perfect. Honestly, I prefer the Shaman in almost every regard. Ergos, blade, action. And the sprints are coming.
Got mine before the price hike 😁. It's my favorite spyderco so far. Only thing I did was put an mxg gear black deep pocket clip. Perfect.
Great review. I like that you have no problem regrinding your blades. Hopefully you will grind off that finger choil nub. I think the blade stock is a little thick. People that buy Spyderco's, buy them to slice. That and pocket jewelry. Making this more robust does not make it any stronger, it's a folder. I haven't got it in hand yet, but I think the PM2 still wins out.
Jameson Cross just wait till you hold it. And thicker blade stock does make the blade stronger, but perhaps not the knife as a whole. Thanks for your comments and support! I actually sold this...
Doctor Frunkey how come you sold it?
Moving the collection along. Will buy and keep a sprint version.
Since the release of this knife I've been lusting for it. I've always been a fan of the PM2 and it was a knife on my bucket list but this just became my new spyderco grail. I will definitely be saving up to buy this. Not sure if I'll get the s30v or wait for a sprint run but either way, I'm sure it will be a great piece.
Ian Beausejour the S30V version is the ultimate user. The sprints will just be that much better. You will do well to grab one of these.
I will just as soon as I can save up roughly 200$ I'm in Canada, so conversion of currency is unpleasant, and finding it in a retail store around here is really hard. Not too many Canadian online retailers either. Other than warriors and wonders, I don't know of any other sites that don't try to rip us off
I think the shaman is for those who love their manix 2 but prefer the compression lock over the axis lock style. Blade shape is damn near identical. I prefer the pm2 blade shape I think it’s a gorgeous blade shape.
Hey Dr FRUNKY great vid as always. Does the unflush backspacer bother you? Did they fix that from the first releases?. That would bother me because way cheaper knives have better fit backspacers. How's the backspacer on the one you have? I wouldn't want them to just grind off the choil because there has to be some kind of guard imo
Jonathan York the backspacer isn't flush on purpose. To me, it is of no consequence either visually or ergonomically. It provides traction in the fat pad of the palm.
I was going to say the same thing as Doc. There is no reason for it to be flush. It wasn’t designed that way and It shouldn’t be. It’s fine just the way it is. If they would have used pillars instead of a backspacer you wouldn’t have expected them to be flush. Think of the backspacer as a counterweight to the heavy blade and maybe it won’t bother you..;)
Great review man, I cant wait till they come out with one of these in CF with a nicer steel I will then buy so fast!
Sam Bickle thank you, me too!
It won't replace my pm2 unless they make a left hand version of it. Good review thanks 🐱
I would love a micarta, S35VN or CTS-HXP for the added toughness over s30/90/110v. It seems big and beatery and I think would be better with tough steel.
I hope this msg finds you Doctor. I've really enjoyed your videos! It's 2022 and I'm a Spyderco Fan Boy now. What company or/ Website do you go to get the deep pocket carry clips Please!
Thank you!
If the Shaman fills the need the PM2 does (and does it better) then we must acknowledge that. For PM2 adherents, the five stages of grief must be observed.
There will be much hate spewed at me for this Diagnosis. But I truly feel this improves an all the shortcomings of the PM2. Yes, it's heavier, but it's sooo damn good.
yes its looks like its better than the pm2
im disapointed by de finition of the pm2 for the price
I like it, except for the smooth handles. If I'd realized how smooth they were, would not have gotten it. I carry left side sometimes. Smooth scales with dry hands, using the left hand only, pretty much ensures it's gonna go flying when you do the little down stroke to get the blade to swing closed.
All I really wanted was exactly a pm2 with a drop point. Love the pm2, but prefer drop point blades. I'm not gutting anything, so I'd rather have the extra strength rather than better piercing.
What do I think of the Shaman? I think it's the best folding knife ever. Sure, there are more expensive knives with better materials but in the end, I don't think I need anything more than what the Shaman has to offer. It is way more than enough for me. Not the best slicer but still excellent. I love my Shaman.
Great looking knife. I still prefer the pm2. it's slimmer and has a better point
Cool!
Have one and love it. Nothing wrong with it and it’s perfect. You get used to the nub btw
from a survival perspective the lanyard hole is very useful
Thanks Doc, I'm waiting on more flavors. Natural canvas micarta and cpm M4 @ 64 rc would be a must have ☺
I will be first in line to buy that model! Cheers my friend!
There is no PM2 killer. The only thing they can improve on the PM2 is adding a free float stop pin from the para3.
And a deep-carry clip from the factory.
Big Mofo at $140, I'd choose this 100% over PM2. But at 180, not so much. Your points are valid and my opinion is just an opinion.
Have you tried a Caribbean Salt? I’ve been looking for another compression lock knife, but some of the new ones have this weird interference thing going on with tabs and choils. Thanks!
And I would love to see it in a sprint run with Pakka wood or something similar.
Michael I'm not a huge fan of pakkawood but I bet you could get an aftermarket guy to make you some great wood scales.
Another great diagnostic thanks to you Frank ! Keep up with good containte are you considering any flashlight to review would love to see a foursevens paladin 😅😉
el ouafi taharrast I have only done a few lights, and I feel I've found the perfect ones in the Olight S series. But I'm open to people sending them...
Doctor Frunkey oh great im building my flashlight collection so when i get something realy intresting i would send it your way 😉 im agree the s series of olight are great i have a s1 ti my self 😉
Did you happen to grab a S90v sprint? I’d love to hear your thoughts on that one. Mine just came in and I love it!
thanks for the comparison
hell yes...OD Canvas Micarta with M390 or 20CV....drooool!
Luc Albert you got it. What a dream that would be.
Fingers crossed
""HELL YES""!!!!
Natural g10!
I got the pm2, the manix 2 lightweight and now the shaman... I tell myself I'm done but the native 5 salt still isn't out yet....
I want the Native salt
Id use it as a camping or out door folder
Randall B would work well like that
Cheers Mate!
PM2 is lofty company. But I'll take your word on it. I think I will wait for the Shaman 2 though for the potential choil alteration and/or a sprint run with carbon fibre. Thanks!
Stace Smith trust me. And the choil thing is not a deal breaker.
Maybe a manix killer because its not really simillar to a pm2 besides the lock
just got mine luv the way it feels in my hand, IMO its a lot better knife than the pm2 the egros are fantastic, I like a lot more than my manix2 xl
Helen Mclennan thanks for the insight! I feel the same way!
Would this be good for me and my mammoth sized mitts?
YES, this knife is ideal for larger hands.
Agreed, Doc. PM2 = Ded.
Nick Shabazz 😂💀 thanks Nick!
PM2 is easier to carry though. It has distinct advantage in weight and space in pocket.
James Min the PM2 is, for me, much less enjoyable to carry. The squared off handle, wider handle at the heel, and textured G10 are less pocket friendly. To me, the weight difference is not quite as noticeable as these other points.
You guys are crazy. The choil going into the compression lock area is straight up ugly and a deal breaker for me. Especially with this not being the first knife they've made this error on. I think it's a cool knife with some great design elements (those handle scales!) and while I do enjoy beefy knives, at the end of the day the PM2 and Manix 2 are better slicers, smaller in the pocket, and lighter in weight while still having fantastic ergos. Not to mention that the Shaman is the most expensive of the bunch. An intriguing knife in Spyderco's lineup, but a PM2 killer it is not.
I find it hard to accept that analysis when neither of you addressed that the PM2 is nearly $50 cheaper than the shaman.
Foliage G10 and XHP please!
I much prefer my Shaman to my PM2. I prefer the brawny feel of the Shaman.
Spyderco is really crapping the bed with their pricing. I like spyderco. But the quality, materials, fit and finish, etc that you can get for your dollar these days.... is stupendous. And I just don't see spyderco keeping up with this trend.
Actually...
After your youtubie, the Para2 is no longer my #1 spyderco choice.
Thanks!
If this comes out in a nicer steel I'll prob grab one
Chris Lacosse it's coming
I will hold you to that Doc 😜
The nub is not a fatal flaw,... you can use it to deploy the knife
I think this knife is a mix of the manix and pm2.
Cool vid and review ! Ps “my diagnosis is” ! Lmao
What pocket clip on the pm2
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06VV1MWLM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I love everything about this knife except for the &$#@ compression lock. Just a PIA for left-handers.
slidetek they will probably do a lefty version!
I'd like that - except I'd still keep the clip for right-handed carry. I stopped fighting that years ago, and muscle memory is a bitch.
I’m a lefty and I carry my knife on my right side due to my handgun on my left side (law enforcement officers since 1984). Knife is for weapon retention and general task. I’ve practiced for years using the knife right handed. Just a suggestion.
Try $344 to $369 up here in Canada lol! 😂😂😂. $250 with exchange rate if i got it from the states.
Micarta and M390...take my money 💰
Spyderco greed. The 22% price increase right off the bat has prevented me from purchasing this knife. I want one, but FUCK THEM!!!
Yeah, the price hike is painful on this model specifically. But let's keep Spyderco going, eh? they make some of the best tools around.
I thought the same, but then I read in the forums that they under estimated the cost of the g10 handles and had to raise price in order to compensate once they recrunched the numbers. I bought a sprint run pm2 recently, but wasn't happy with the quality and refunded it. Wrote to them about it, didn't expect anything and not only did I get a reply back. They sent me a package with a ton of Spyderco nicknacks and goodies for free.
Jesse Rodrigues wow! Great story. Thanks for sharing. That's a good company for you!
Where do you get your deep carry clips from?
Damen0530 Custom Titanium Deep Pocket Clip Compatible To Spyderco USA Japan Made Knives www.amazon.com/dp/B06VV1MWLM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_sQ8rAb43PD95R
Micarta! Just hope it's not the peel ply carbon fiber
Chris Howard I just got the Gayle Bradley 2 for Christmas and I’m loving the carbon fibre over the G10. I think it looks great and has tons of gripitude as Shabazz says..lol. As long as the carbon fibre doesn’t separate I’m good to go.
Chris Howard it will come in 3D CF in the future
Doctor Frunkey very nice look forward to spyderco taking so more of my money I'll have to get that one for sure. Spyderco has fallen off my radar the past 2 or 3 years they have brought me back with this one
Chris Howard it takes a special Spydie to catch me attention. This may be their best overall knife. Years of CQI and Sal's genius really shine through here.
Doctor Frunkey I could really tell it impressed you and the reason I'll buy one when a sprint comes around. I respect and trust your opinion you've never let me down but your costing me way too much money 😂
IMHO ALL knife blades MUST have a sharpening choil. Some companies have it o their knives. Keeping recasso's and nubs get in the way of use and sharpening. Obvioiusly. The one aspect of Spyderco blades I'm surprised has remained. I know Eric's thinking...he metions it on their "vreakdown videos". totally disagree with him.
Otherwise they seem to be great knives in design.
Hopefully they dont use that crappy single ply cf over g10 on this
Valkyrie Survives no way. Sal has guaranteed 3D milled CF. It's gonna be amazing.
Valkyrie Survives Because of the 3D contouring, the peel plying technique will be difficult, if not I'll impossible.
Or a G10 dark earth /s35vn
Apples and oranges bruh
Double the price
screw cf i want to see micarta,cause it's more of an outdoor knife
I agree. S90V and Micarta plz.
180 is about 30 too much.. I can get a microtech and higher end Bali when you start talking 180 to 200
Bro wants to be nick Shabazz
too heavy. too much money.
NOT a PM2 killer, not even close, PM2 is a much better EDC, Shaman is beefy but who needs it out and about everyday. If I need a meaty blade Ill pack my Bravo 1.
The PM2 blade is so much more useful all day long and gos unnoticed in my pocket.