Everyone needs to have a folding knife in their life. This is because it can assist in various tasks like opening boxes and packages, hunting, slicing and many other chores where you need a blade. You want something that is lightweight, easy to use and can handle any tasks you throw at it. One of the best in the market is the Spyderco Endura 4 Wave Plain Edge Folding Knife. This is one of Spyderco’s military grade folding knives and it contains a number of special patented features. In this Spyderco Endura 4 Review, we will explore the unique patented features, usability, cost and benefits of owning your own Spyderco folding knife.
Spyderco Endura 4 Review with Detail Features
Durable Stainless Steel Blade
The Spyderco Endura 4 has a 97mm or 3-13/16 inch VG-10 steel blade. VG10 steel is corrosion-resistant which means it will not rust over time. It is 1/8 of an inch thick which makes it perfect for handling tough cutting jobs without breaking. The edge is considered one of the sharpest in the market, but many hunters believe that it could do with a little more sharpening. It is a flat saber edge that has a reinforced tip. The blade also has a larger opening hole compared to other blades. It enables easy handling while opening or closing.
Ergonomic FRN Bi-directional Grip Handle
In this Spyderco Endura 4 Review, you will notice that the handle is considered to be one of the best features of this blade. It is made of Spyderco fiberglass reinforced nylon which makes it very durable. The bi-directional grip enables the user to grip the blade in both the upward and downward position. The blade is put together using screws. The curve of the blade makes it ergonomic, which means it makes it easy to hold and is in line with your hand. On the inside of the handle is a steel liner where all parts of the blade are held and this is also for durability. The handle also has a lanyard hole at the back to enable users to carry the blade.
4-Way Clip and Screw Construction
One of this blade’s unique additional features is the 4 way clip which will allow the user to clip it in any direction they feel comfortable with. This means that even left-handed people do not have to worry about a folding knife mishap because the blade is facing the wrong direction. For the blade to easily retract, there are bronze washers in the holder within the handle, which means you don’t have to wiggle the blade out. If you look at the handle, there are multiple screws that hold the Spyderco Endura 4 knife together. The screws make it easy to clean and adjust when necessary.
BOYE indented Lockback
Many knives are designed with a lockback which comes with a few challenges. To begin with, tough handling of the knife can trigger the lockback which can result in an accident as the blade retracts. What the Spyderco Endura 4 Wave Plain Edge Folding Knife has done is to employ the BOYE indent on the lock which is on the side of the handle. The indent gives space for your fingers without worrying about triggering the lock mechanism. The lock tends to be triggered when holding the knife with the blade facing downwards, like a stab position. In this case, you do not have to worry about getting a cut thanks to the indent.
Patented Emerson Wave Opener
This is the one feature of the Endura 4 Wave Plain Edge Folding Knife that deserves special mention. The Emerson wave opener mechanism is the accidental brainchild of Ernest Emerson who added the feature to his knives before selling the patent to Spyderco. The wave opener allows the blade to open in one action. The opener will snag on your clothes and cause the blade to snap open. It is considered a faster action compared to a switch blade with which the user has to fidget for a button. While it took me some time to master the opener, it actually does work faster than a switchblade and allows you to spring into action.
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PROS:
- Lightweight at 3.6 ounces and is nicely compact at a closed length of 5 inches.
- Easy to dismantle and clean due to the screw fastening.
- Durable thanks to the fiberglass reinforced nylon.
- The lock mechanism cannot be accidentally triggered.
- Easy to grip handle thanks to the bi-directional grip design
- 4-way clip that lets you store the knife in any direction.
- Patented Emerson wave opener for a one action opening of the blade.
- Very sharp steel blade and reinforced tip for durability.
- Product warranty is available.
CONS:
- The first try at the wave opener can be frustrating, but it is worth it.
- It is perfect for smaller chores but not for serious game hunting.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Q: Can the Emerson wave opener be used as a bottle opener?
A: It actually looks like it can, especially on a camping or hunting trip.
Q: Does the Spyderco blade come with a hard case?
A: No, it just comes in a cardboard box.
Final Verdict
In summary, I believe that the Spyderco Endura 4 is a worthwhile purchase. Spyderco is known for creating some military-grade knives so it will be durable and long-lasting. The lockback mechanism cannot be triggered accidentally. If you are looking for a folding knife that has amazing grip, the bi-directional texture has you covered. After having used it for about 7 months, the blade has not changed one bit thanks to the corrosion resistant steel material. I can clip it in my pocket in 4 directions and the Emerson wave opener works like a charm after using it a couple times and getting used to it. It is quite affordable and is available on Amazon.
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