CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS
The Spyderco Para 3 is lightweight and built like a bear utilizing oversized Torx hardware to hold it all together. G10 scales take abuse and allows for a solid grip – even when wet. CPM S30V excels in all departments and should provide the user with a maintenance-fee blade for a generous amount of time.

EASE OF USE
A lot of attention has been paid in shaping the G10 handle scales to not only fit all hands well, but also for even easier blade deployment; which is already a breeze with the inclusion of Spyderco’s patented thumb-hole. Users unfamiliar with a compression-style lock will find it cumbersome to operate with one hand, but it’s a small hurdle that is easily overcome.

STEEL QUALITY/EDGE RETENTION
CPM S30V is one of the most premium powdered steels on the market because of its resilience to corrosion, abrasion, and can hold a razor-sharp edge for an extended period of time. When it does come to re-sharpen the Para 3, it’s something that can quickly and effectively be done in less than five minutes with the proper stone.

DURABILITY
The Para 3 is a shining example of what you can do when you put the right materials, build, and design all together in a compact package. Reinforcing the G10 scales with steel liners was overkill, but it only proves that the Para 3 will hold together over the long haul.