Spyderco Endela Lightweight C243SBK

Description

Spyderco’s Delica and Endura models are two of the most popular and widely used folding knives in history. These groundbreaking designs pioneered the concept of the lightweight, clip-carry, one-hand-opening folding knife and were instrumental in establishing injection-molded fiberglass-reinforced nylon (FRN) as a handle material.

Since their debut in 1990, the Delica and Endura Lightweights have steadily evolved to arrive at the current fourth-generation versions. Now available in a broad range of blade steels, grinds, edge configurations, and handle colors, these iconic models are considered by many to be about as perfect as working knives can be. But when it comes to knives, “perfect” is always in the eyes—and the hands—of the beholder.

To be honest, there really is no “one-size-fits-all” knife. Everyone’s hand size and shape are slightly different, and each of us has our own preferred grips and working style. Similarly, the laws regarding blade length in the areas where we live and travel may limit the types of knives we carry. And when you get right down to it, for some folks the Delica may simply “seem” a little too small, while the Endura just “feels” a bit too big. That’s ok because now there’s a third option: the Endela.

Carefully designed to literally split the difference between the best-selling Endura 4 and Delica 4 Lightweights, the Endela faithfully maintains all the highly refined, time-tested features of each, but in the perfect “in-between” size. Its satin finished blade is crafted from VG10 stainless steel and proudly features a fully accessible Trademark Round Hole for ambidextrous one-hand opening. The full-flat-ground blade is available with a PlainEdge or SpyderEdge, and both include an area of jimping (textured grooves) just behind the Round Hole for a solid thumb purchase during use. Like its bigger and smaller brothers, the Endela’s blade is supported by a sturdy back lock mechanism that includes a Boye Dent to help prevent unintentional lock release.

The Endela’s handle features skeletonized stainless steel liners nested within injection-molded FRN scales. The liners ensure impressive structural strength and provide a solid foundation for the attachment of the knife’s four-position hourglass clip. Secured by three screws, the clip allows tip-up and tip-down carry on both the left and right sides and, along with the knife’s other features, makes all aspects of its carry, deployment, and operation completely ambidextrous. The Endela’s FRN scales include Spyderco’s trademark Bi-Directional Texturing pattern for a superior grip in even the most demanding conditions, while its screw-together construction and low-friction pivot washers ensure precise tolerances and smooth, reliable operation.

The inaugural version of the Endela features black FRN scales and a choice of two edge configurations. Like its progenitors, however, it is sure to become a platform for many other variations showcasing different blade and handle materials, colors, finishes, and other distinctive features.

No matter what exact form it takes, we are confident the Endela will prove to be a worthy companion to the Delica and Endura and a proud continuation of their legacy.

Specifications
Blade Length: 3.41″ (87 mm)
Cutting Edge: 2.99″ (76 mm)
Closed Length: 4.69″ (119 mm)
Overall Length: 8.10″ (206 mm)
Blade Thickness: 0.118″ (3.0 mm)
Blade Material: VG10 Stainless Steel
Blade Style: Drop Point
Blade Grind: Full Flat
Blade Finish: Satin
Blade Edge: Serrated
Handle Material: Bi-Directional Textured FRN
Handle Color: Black
Locking Mechanism: Lockback
Pocket Clip: Tip-Up/Down, Left/Right Carry
Model Number: C243SBK
Model Name: Endela
Weight: 3.1 oz. (88 g)
Made in Japan