Spyderco Paramilitary 2 VS Tenacious | Choosing the better one for outdoor activities
Having a reliable and durable knife is essential for outdoor enthusiasts. Two popular options are the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 and the Tenacious. While both knives have strengths, some key differences may influence your decision.
The Spyderco Paramilitary 2 has a larger, premium CPM S30V steel blade, whereas the Tenacious has an 8Cr13MoV steel blade. A slightly lighter weight, satin finish, and fully sharpened edge distinguish the Spyderco. The Tenacious, on the other hand, has a partially serrated edge option, a reversible tip-up pocket clip, and a lower price.
Moreover, you will find more differences between them. Stay tuned, I will compare Spyderco Paramilitary 2 vs. Tenacious. It may help you choose the best knife for your outdoor adventures.
About Spyderco Paramilitary 2 Overview
The Spyderco Paramilitary 2 is a famous folding knife that is highly regarded among knife enthusiasts and professionals.
This knife features a 3.44-inch blade made from premium CPM-S30V steel, known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.
The blade is deployed via the trademark Spyderco round hole and secured by a reliable compression lock. The handle is made from durable G-10 material and is ergonomically designed for a comfortable and secure grip.
One of the standout features of the Paramilitary 2 is its versatility. It is a great all-around knife suitable for various tasks, from everyday carry to outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, or hunting. It also features a reversible pocket clip, making it easy to carry in either the left or right pocket.
About Tenacious Overview
The Tenacious knife is a highly sought-after folding knife that has earned a reputation for its durability, strength, and functionality.
Designed by Spyderco, a renowned knife manufacturer, the Tenacious knife features a 3.39-inch blade made from high-quality stainless steel that can withstand heavy use without losing its sharp edge.
The blade’s design is versatile, allowing it to perform various cutting tasks efficiently, from slicing through tough materials to precision cuts.
The knife also boasts a sturdy handle made from G-10 material that provides a secure grip, even in wet or slippery conditions.
Its rugged construction and reliable performance have made it a favorite among outdoorsmen, first responders, and everyday carry enthusiasts.
Quick Comparison Chart
| Highlighted Features | Spyderco Paramilitary 2 | Tenacious |
| Size | 3.4 inches | 3.39 inches |
| Blade Material | CPM S30V steel blade | 8Cr13MoV steel blade |
| Blade Shape | modified clip-point blade | classic drop-point blade |
| Locking Mechanism | compression lock | liner lock |
| Handle Material | G-10 | FRN |
| Weight | 3.75 ounces | 4.1 ounces |
| Blade Grind | full flat grind | Hollow grind |
| Blade Thickness | 0.145 inches | 0.12 inches |
| Blade Edge | fully sharpened edge | partially serrated edge |
| Blade Finish | satin finish | black oxide coating |
| Pocket Clip | four-position pocket clip | reversible tip-up pocket clip |
| Sharpness | Tough | Easy |
| Price | Expensive | Affordable |
Spyderco Paramilitary 2 vs Tenacious- Key Differences
- Size
The size of a knife is an important consideration when choosing a knife for outdoor activities. The Spyderco Paramilitary 2 is slightly larger than the Tenacious, with a blade length of 3.4 inches compared to the Tenacious’ 3.39 inches.
While this may seem like a minor difference, it can make a significant difference in the usability of the knife. A longer blade can be more versatile in outdoor activities, allowing for easier slicing and chopping of larger materials.
- Blade Material
The blade material is another vital factor when choosing a knife for outdoor activities. The Paramilitary 2 features a premium CPM S30V steel blade.
It ensures excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. On the other hand, the Tenacious has an 8Cr13MoV steel blade, lower-end steel that is still durable but not as high quality as the CPM S30V steel.
The CPM S30V steel of the Paramilitary 2 is a superior material that will hold up better over time and require less maintenance than the 8Cr13MoV steel of the Tenacious.
- Blade Shape
The blade shape is another factor to consider when choosing a knife for outdoor activities. The Paramilitary 2 has a modified clip-point blade shape, which is a versatile shape that is suitable for a variety of tasks.
On the other hand, the Tenacious has a classic drop-point shape, which is also versatile but may not be as suitable for some tasks as the modified clip-point shape.
The modified clip-point shape of the Paramilitary 2 is a more versatile blade shape for outdoor activities.
- Locking Mechanism
The locking mechanism of a knife is an important safety feature to consider when choosing a knife for outdoor activities. The Paramilitary 2 has a compression lock, a strong and reliable locking mechanism that is easy to use with one hand.
The Tenacious uses a liner lock, a reliable locking mechanism that may not be as strong as the compression lock. The compression lock of the Paramilitary 2 is a superior locking mechanism that provides better safety and ease of use.
- Handle Material
The handle material is another factor when choosing a knife for outdoor activities. The Paramilitary 2 features G-10 handle scales, a durable and lightweight material that provides excellent grip even in wet conditions.
The Tenacious has FRN (fiberglass reinforced nylon) handle scales, which are also durable and lightweight but may not provide as good a grip as the G-10 handle scales. The G-10 handle scales of the Paramilitary 2 provide a superior grip and durability for outdoor activities.
- Weight
The weight of a knife is another essential factor to consider when choosing a knife for outdoor activities. The Paramilitary 2 is slightly heavier than the Tenacious, weighing 3.75 ounces compared to the Tenacious, 4.1 ounces.
While this may not seem like a significant difference. But it can make a difference in the usability of the knife over extended periods of use. The slightly lighter weight of the Paramilitary 2 may make it more comfortable to use for extended periods.
- Blade Grind
The blade grind is another factor to consider when choosing a knife for outdoor activities. The Paramilitary 2 has a full flat grind, which is a versatile grind that is suitable for a variety of tasks.
The Tenacious has a hollow grind, which is also versatile but may not be as suitable for some tasks as the full flat grind. The full flat grind of the Paramilitary 2 is a more versatile grind for outdoor activities.
- Blade Thickness
The thickness of a blade is an essential factor to consider when choosing a knife for outdoor activities. A thicker blade is generally more durable and can handle heavier tasks such as chopping, splitting, and batoning. The Paramilitary 2 has a blade thickness of 0.145 inches thicker than the Tenacious 0.12 inches. This means the Paramilitary 2 can handle heavier tasks better than the Tenacious.
- Blade Finish
The finish of a blade affects its appearance and durability. The Paramilitary 2 has a satin finish, a smooth and shiny finish that provides some corrosion resistance.
On the other hand, the Tenacious has a black oxide coating, which provides a more durable and wear-resistant finish but is not as shiny as the satin finish.
The satin finish on the Paramilitary 2 is better for outdoor activities because it provides some corrosion resistance while maintaining a smooth surface that is easy to clean.
- Blade Edge
The type of blade edge is another important factor to consider when choosing a knife for outdoor activities. The Paramilitary 2 has a fully sharpened edge, better for general-purpose use such as cutting, slicing, and carving.
On the other hand, the Tenacious has a partially serrated edge option, which is better for tasks requiring more aggressive cutting, such as cutting through thick ropes, webbing, or branches.
However, the partially serrated edge can be more difficult to sharpen and maintain than a fully sharpened edge.
- Pocket Clip
The pocket clip is essential when choosing a knife for outdoor activities. The Paramilitary 2 features a four-position pocket clip, which allows the user to carry the knife in different ways, such as tip-up or tip-down carry, left or right-hand carry.
The Tenacious has a reversible tip-up pocket clip, which allows the user to carry the knife in the tip-up position on either side of the handle. The four-position pocket clip on the Paramilitary 2 is more versatile and allows the user to carry the knife differently, making it more suitable for outdoor activities.
- Sharpness
The Tenacious is easier to sharpen due to its 8Cr13MoV steel, known for its ease of sharpening. In contrast, the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 has CPM S30V steel, which is a harder steel and can be more challenging to sharpen. However, the Paramilitary 2 may hold its edge longer than the Tenacious.
- Price
The price of a knife is an essential factor to consider when choosing a knife for outdoor activities. The Paramilitary 2 is more expensive than the Tenacious, with an MSRP of around $215 compared to the Tenacious MSRP of around $60.
However, the higher price of the Paramilitary 2 reflects its superior quality and features, such as its thicker blade, satin finish, fully sharpened edge, and four-position pocket clip.
My Opinion- Which knife is better?
In my opinion, the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 is the better knife for outdoor activities due to its superior blade material, blade shape, locking mechanism, handle material, and pocket clip.
The CPM S30V steel blade, modified clip-point shape, compression lock, G-10 handle scales, and a four-position pocket clip of the Paramilitary 2 make it a more versatile and durable option for outdoor activities.
While the Tenacious is a good option for those on a budget, the Paramilitary 2’s higher price point is justified by its superior features, making it the better choice for serious outdoor enthusiasts.
