Maybe it’s because my first lightweight Spyderco was a blue Delica 3, but I just really like the C223 Lightweight Para 3 platform. I carried one variation of this wonderful lightweight lil’ big folder throughout the summer.
The form factor on the Para 3 just works. If you love the Paramilitary 2, then you’ll at least ‘like’ the Para 3. The cockpit area (opening hole, choil area) is the same, so you’ll have no trouble deploying the Para 3, compared to the Paramilitary 2. The C223 offers a full ‘large knife’ grip, when using the choil, but in a shorter package. The wire clip, although suboptimal for actual clip carry compared to the 4-way hourglass clip, is very ergonomic in the hand. The blade and handle sport a similar width as the Paramilitary 2, so you get maximum cutting power in a shorter package. Hence Sal’s nickname for this class of folders: lil’ big knives.
I have a Para 3. Not the biggest fan of the compression lock. But it is a good size, like he says.
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Spyderco C223 Para 3 Lightweight Praise
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