Non-locking folding knives arent a new concept. Theyve been around for centuries without much change but continue selling among a sea of modern locking knives. The reason? While many knife buyers appreciate the traditional aspects of a non-locker, more want this type of knife because they live or work where laws prohibit carrying and using a locking pocketknife.
Spyderco perceived a gap between traditional slipjoints and modern locking folders and created a product line called SLIPITS. SLIPITS offer reliable and sophisticated non-locking folders that open with one hand, have a finger choil for comfort and safety and are conveniently accessible.
As the overall SLIPIT line expands, a subcategory of micro-sized SLIPITS with stainless steel handles is populating within and Spyderco calls them Bugs. The first Bug was matter-of-factly named, The Bug. Its non-locking blade is just barely over an inch long. Next up, a two-inch blade called the HoneyBee followed by the release of a larger one yet, The GrassHopper. Affable Bugs draw comments like "how cute" - a beneficial perception in a knife-cautious world but their size trumps the reality that theyre serious business when it comes to cutting.
The GrassHoppers size is closest to that of a true penknife with its blade over two-inches. Its PlainEdge 12c27 stainless steel blade stays open when youre cutting, held by resistant pressure at the knifes pivot area. GrassHopper handles are chamfered with no squared-off edges to dig or bite into a gripping hand. The handle is also stainless steel with a laser engraved Spyderco bug and enough blank area for a small amount of engraving or customization as jewelry or a gift item. Handle lanyard-hole welcomes a chain for wear around a neck or a keychain.
I own all 3 in black now. Each are well made, slim and 5th pocket compatible. This is the largest of the trilogy. I have medium to larger hands and I can get 3-4 fingers on the handle. It has a nice thin blade and with a tip made for piercing. Opens boxes like a champ. It's simple to operate. Stiff like slipjoint knives are this 12c27 blade isn't anything fancy but is easy to sharpen and takes a nice edge. At less than $30 it can take a beating and still be kind to your wallet. Large enough to get many day to day cutting tasks done, but not too big to draw attention or odd looks. I'm glad it's not too much bigger. This is about the largest I'd like for a slip joint. It's unobtrusive, Spyderco style and even though it's made in China, it's still built to Spyderco specs. It comes in a nice little Spyderco box that is pretty cool. Combined with the box it makes a nice gift.