I have been contemplating for several months between the Sage 5 LW, Chaparral, and PM3 LW. Here are the ultimate reasons for why I chose to hold out for the Sage: 1. Fidget-able locking mechanism (unlike the Chaparral’s back-lock) 2. Thinner blade stock than the PM3 (LW) 3. S30V for $30 more over the PM3’s BD1N 4. PM3 only has a half liner The Chaparral has a very appealing blade stock and is the best bang-for-buck since you get CTS-XHP for $95, but the back-lock really turns me off. The PM3 is a good value but I couldn’t get over the blade stock and liner situation. Therefore, the Sage, which catered to all my interests, won.
Agree on all 4 counts. Just pulled the trigger on a Sage 5 LW. Now if the USPS would stop slow-walking on the delivery, that would be a good thing. (No reflection on the USPS workers, just the new Postmaster!)
That’s pretty much where I am now. I need something distinctly not-aggressive, so I’m leaning towards the Chappy. But I do prefer a compression lock. I think the blade stock and the fact that I’m not a huge fan of Spyderco S30V are probably going to win out, but I would definitely take this over the Para 3 LW.
I think one way to look at it is this: Spyderco gives you many ways to own a gem and has accommodated a wide variety of personal preferences. Not a bad problem to have...
Good review (knife puppets aside). The reason that I bought the Sage 5 LW is that I greatly prefer the looks of the leaf-shaped blade to the Para 3 blades. The Para 3 always seemed too “triangular” to me.
The sage 5 lw is for folks that want a para 3 lw that doesn't feel as cheap and bendy with a great action that doesn't sacrifice centering and blade play and like the leaf blade. They get all of this plus the pivot bushing for 30 bucks less than the sage 5.
Don't get me wrong but I don't feel like the Para 3 LW is bendy at all. Like I can bend it but I can bend knives with steel liners too if I really try and at no point does it bend enough to touch sides nor enough that I feel it would bend in regular use in your grip. I haven't had an issue with play in mine either though centering is impossible and the pivot bushing being brought up as a separate thing from the action feels like a cop out but whatever. I think the Sage 5 LW is okay but it really doesn't stand out. The Sage 5 -> LW only drops half an ounce compared to the P3 which drops a full oz, the Sage 5 ->LW drops 30 bucks as opposed to 40 for the P3 LW. Also the P3 LW comes in under the significant price point of $100 while the Sage 5 LW doesn't. I don't think it's a bad knife but it doesn't really stand out as Nick said. I think for me I'd be more likely to recommend the knife to anyone who wanted a Sage 5 but didn't care about the handle material than I am to suggest it for anyone who was looking for a P3 LW unless they told me they felt like the P3 LW was hideous because of the blade shape.
@@gnomersy1087 my para 3 is bendy in my opinion. Also the feeling of cheapness builds when considering it being off center, one washer, lesser steel and penchant for side to side play if the action is free enough to fidget. All of those improve after paying 25 bucks for the sage lightweight. 35 for a pm3 and 55 for a sage 5. Don't get me wrong. My para 3 lightweight isn't going anywhere, but my sage 5 lw is getting more play time while the para 3 lightweight is getting work duty.
@@gnomersy1087 I also think spyderco are looking at these knives in terms of the compression lock. The p3lw is the cheapest way to get one and on up the ladder we go. That's why the other knife comparisons are strange. They have mechanisms that are just not as fun to play with as the compression lock. And spyderco puts s premium on fun. 😂
@@chrishall1407 I dunno maybe you got a dud or I got a better example but like I said the flex is minimal for me(although I'm comparing it to steel liners and the bugout as the top and bottom range of flex) and I don't get play but I do agree it can feel cheap in execution given the centering issue the lack of a second washer and different steel choice(Though from test data I still think BD1N is probably a better steel than most people give it credit for) But I think that's the point if you compare the Sage 5 "LW" to the Para 3 G10 it's a 10 dollar reduction which is pretty normal for FRN then if you look at the weight it's like a half oz less which is pretty normal for FRN I just feel like calling it a Lightweight knife is a little out of place. To me it feels like they just took a Sage 5 slapped on FRN scales added some incremental improvements and decided it was a lightweight knife?
the sage 5 lightweight is the best option for someone who wants a slicy compression lock folder under 3 oz (that you can also spydie flick). Sage 5 is barely too heavy and Sage 5 lightweight is barely light enough. Paramilitary options all have blade stock that is too thick. The Ikuchi has thin blade stock but cant be spydie flicked and the compression lock finger space is limited. The kapara is too long a blade for edc and too heavy. I finally can sell my PM2 and replace it with the sage 5 lightweight to keep one compression lock knife in my collection. The wire clip mixed with lightweight is perfect to slide into my gym pants side pockets that have zippers.
Reid, I have a question for you about it. Would you say the Sage 5 Light Weight can be considered one of their "Little Big Knives", in this sense: It is lightweight and compact enough to pack away in one's pocket comfortably, but, it is durable, tough, and resilient enough to handle major cutting tasks, even such things as fishing and emergency survival, if needed?
Sage 5 is a Native 5 with compression lock. It’s also a smaller version of the Shaman. This is where the Sage 5 exceeds imo. I own a ton of Spydies and my back locks sit in a drawer.
Nick, I think it’s somewhat clear where the Sage 5 fits: it’s a compression lock Native 5 with the improved action. Maybe not a huge market, but if you are recommending to someone wanting a Native with c-lock, there you go. 👍
I understand why Spyderco made this, but i don't agree. The sage line was originally designed to show off different locking mechanisms using a one design knife. The compression lock exists with the sage 5. If they actually made it lightweight like the para 3 lw, sure why not. But they could have easily incorporated a button lock or a scorpion lock or SOMETHING new for the line and made a sage 6.
Agreed. I feel like it should have used the excellent Smock "Button" Compression Lock. Some nice rounded Micarta scales would have made it an insta-buy for me.
In my humble opinion, the Chaparral frn is the best Spyderco knife around for the average urban type. It's a bit stiff on the back lock at the start but that goes away. It's not as flicky as the Sage but it's a knife you carry and use, light, sharp, strong and very well made. Flicky, fun, phallic knives are not really much use off the sofa or out of the outback. Where all Spydercos are stiff is when it comes to the prices but the Chaparral frn could one of the better values.
I ended up getting the Sage 5 LW for my first real Spyderco and I couldn't be happier. It just ticks all the boxes for me and has easily become my most heavily used carry knife, except for my hiking knife Mora. It also gives me an excuse to buy a PM3 to make sure I made the right decision 😉
The main reason why I bought a Sage 5 lightweight is because I am able to make my own custom scales, since it has steel liners. I was going to buy a para 3 lightweight but you can’t customize it without running into problems. Same with the manix 2 lightweight and the Dragonfly 2. Customization is a big deal. 👍
I've got the same Chaparral LW : love it, and just got a blue G-10 Manix 2: love it as well. I'm flipping back and forth between the Sage 5 and Native 5 for my next Spydie purchase. Personally, I love the leaf shaped blades, my problem is: what I REALLY want is a Sage 5 or Native 5 with the ball bearing lock from the Manix 2. Hopefully Sal will come out with that configuration soon.
yea a ball bearing lock on a Native 5 sounds like a great idea. Feel like it would be a good lock especially on smaller knives. On a Manix 2 it isn't as comfortable to use due its size
Having steel liners in your knife handle is important, right? Having a lock mechanism you enjoy is important too, right? This is why the Sage 5 LW is "better" than both the Chapparal and the Para 3 LW
This review may be flawed based on the previous review the presenter did on the Spyderco Para 3 LW. The Sage 5 is clearly the superior knife in terms of fit and finish. The weight difference between the two is negligible. I found the main issues with the Para 3 LW are the sacrifices made in construction to save weight. The Para 3 only uses one washer and half of a compression lock. As a result, the knife is not easily centered without greatly affecting blade play which becomes excessive. For $122, the Sage 5 LW is only marginally more expensive than the Para 3 black blade and has the superior fit and finish and quality of it's little brother, the Chaparral LW.
Well that was confusing...🤔 I ordered the sage5 this morning. Can't help it, I love the compression lock. Have to give higher fidget points to the C lock. Can't stop playing with my para3. Great video Nick.
My first Sage was a Sage 1, which I chose from the full line of Sages because I like liner locks. Since that time however, I have taken an interest in Para 3s, to the extent that I now own, and most have customized about 25 knives. Anyway, I have come to LOVE compression locks! When I was reminded that the Sage 5 has a compression lock, I bought one. It was fine the way it was, though I hate FRN knife scales, then I became aware of some really nIce titanium RGT replacement scales, so I jumped at that chance! I bought both a Sage 5 with S30V steel and the RGT scales and immediately put them together. The knife is nearly perfect! I was skeptical about the Japanese manufacture, which may not be quite as good as the American stuff, but it is quite good! I am intrigued by the question, is it a better Para 3? It is similarly good! When I can buy Sage 5s in 20 different blade steels, and when the aftermarket scale makers make some better scales for the Sage 5 (as RGT has started doing), then I might consider the Sage 5 to be as good as the Para 3. Until that time, I will certainly build a few, with custom scales, etc. My Sage 5 might very likely, as often as not, be the one I carry… I really, really like it!
I think the sage 5 LW beats the para3 LW in every single way except the weight - and personally I like the slightly heavier option with steel liners and 2 full bushings. It solves both problems with the super-GEM Chaparral - it’s small and the back lock is hard to push. IMHO I think the para3lw is the one that shouldn’t exist, and the Delica needs to retire.
When you compare it to Chaparral or Native (I am holding the former in my hand right now), I'd say the biggest factor tipping it to Sage is the compression lock. The lockback on Chaparral is just so stiff it makes it unusable. I am an avid mushroom picker, and for me the easy deployment is everything. The blades are comparable. Both powder, with Spyderco hardening it makes it a tie. So, lockback is a huge disappointment, and I will be selling my Chaparral and buying the Sage. Thanks for your review.
Looking at it for what it is, and not as something that lives amongst a cornucopia of Spyderco knives, it just seems like a well-designed knife. This is going high in my wish list 👍🏽
As a leftie, I still have an issue with that wire clip and the compression lock Spyderco is throwing on all the light weight knives. I need the clip so I can press the compression lock with my left thumb and my finger gripping into the clip to use with that hand and it is going to result in that clip eventually coming loose from side to side flexing and eventually you will lose that clip. So, unless I end up with a specific left handed knife or a better clip option, it is a pain.
It's good to see that I am not the only one requesting this. Compression lock FRN Chaparral would be a killer. Not to mention that ditching that lock bar and heavy steel back spacer would affect the weight significantly. Then it could take out the Bugout. It would be very light, slicy, fidgety and sporting a better steel.
The sage ergos beat the snot out of the para 3 for me. But I deeply hate Spyderco peel-ply CF, so I've been waiting for the sage 5 lw for months. I'm waiting to see one for around $90 on Reddit. Great review and I love the talking knives!
@@edrader By far. Spyderco peel ply CF is the worst in the industry of mid to high end companies. They can make good CF like with the Kapara or Sprint run Shaman, but their standard CF on g-10 is just cheap and lazy. So yeah I definitely prefer molded plastic to that. I love Spyderco, but really wish they'd upgrade all their models to real CF.
@@edrader yeah I prefer g-10 too. But normal and not pretending to be CF. I'd happily pay an extra 40 or 60 for real CF scales. And I'll also happily accept the lower price for plastic scales and CTS-BD1N steel like on the para 3 LW. I prefer the weight reduction anyways. Either give me LW plastic scales, or make your scales real CF for a higher price. They're capable of it, but just cheap out.
Lately I've seen it online for around $113 which seems a bit cheaper than the average. That was enough for me to pull the trigger - hey I got a little over-excited what can I say.
sounds like cutting off your nose to spite your face. the original sage 5 is very light (I own one). I think this was a senseless "upgrade" unless you like plastic. time will tell
I have yet to buy a spyderco but I am a fan of the leaf shape blades. Not sure if I’d like it better than my current favorite blade shape being tanto for strong tip. I have been enjoying your reviews for some time now so thanx for good, great, bad and the ugly! Knowing how the blade and handle length balance out matters a whole lot to me so cheers to you for pointing that out when others seem to skip the balance of the knife! Joyous blessings to you and yours, have a great holiday!
I just ordered one today & your review really helped my buying decision. I have the Delica, but I wanted to try a compression lock Spyderco in the same size. I love the leaf style blade shape. I think it looks much better than the hump back thing going on with the Delica & Para 3. I understand the hump back is more ergonomic, it just looks ugly to me. I forgive the Delica's looks, because it's such a great knife. For me, the Sage 5 LW was the perfect match in blade shape, size, & compression lock requirements. 👍
I view this range of knives by Spyderco basically as variations on the Delica. The Delica is such a popular and enduring knife that it makes sense to offer it in a variety of iterations. I love my Delica but I don't want to carry the same thing every day so something that checks the same boxes but is different enough to feel novel is great. Spyderco really understand the collector's mindset and they capitalize on it.
I think I'll order one soon. I just got a para 3 lightweight which I'm sending back, not a fan of it at all. Mine has play, a bad action, and it honestly feels too light. This one looks more up my ally. Although honestly I'd prefer the new bushing in the regular sage even more
"Vaseline factory ready knife" always cracks me up.😂 Like a Vaseline factory has the stuff all over the place with factory workers slipping & falling 😂🤣😅 I guess it's better than saying "You will be able to get a good grip on this knife when your hand is covered in blood. "
Your size comparison was kind of like 3 card Monty. "Keep your eye on the sage 5"... "It's the one on top"... "Nope, that's the Manix 2"... "Dang it... Wait... WAS there a Manix 2?" I love your reviews, but be careful... You might be highlighting a disorder most of us have when you drop 10 VERY similar knives right next to each other. ;)
You CAN do the compression lock with your LEFT hand but it’s not pleasant, safe or preferable. I own this and a bugout but will always take the bugout, can’t risk dropping your knife in a high risk situation because it CAN work. I need a left had version from spyderco or I just won’t spend my money again.
Nick, what is your opinion on the Spyderco mid range options with the price increases? sal said on the forums that there will be yet another MAP increase, and to me their mid range models like the Delica are already hard enough to justify at the current price. Do you think Spyderco is abandoning this market, and how would you make the knives more competitive?
enjoyed! this sage talks to me cause i love the leaf blade and i just ordered one--and will probably try the para three lightweight. already have the chaparral and a drawer full of delicas.
@nick, does your scale need to be calibrated, or is Spyderco falsely advertising? They list the weight at 2.7oz, your scale says 2.85. Man, the sage, manix, native, how can one choose?!?
@@drewestes I'm waiting for prices on the secondary market to get around $90. I love the sage series and I'm thinking the sage 5 lw will replace my para 3 lw. Really interesting idea though about switching the bushing to the para 3.
@@wrliggin2 It's a good idea but it might not work correctly because of the way that the bushing fits on. The para 3 LW might not accommodate a pivot bushing. It would be very nice if it could work.
Bought one last week and have already sent it back. I did exactly as you did, Nick. I laid the Sage 5 "Lightweight" next to my Delica, Native 5 and Para 3LW. As nice as it is, I realized that I simply liked all of those other knives better. As stated, it really should be called the Sage 5 FRN. I have a Para3 LW and a Manix 2 LW, and the Sage just doesn't completely jive with the concept they have established.
If this had the same grey colour as the Chap lightweight and XHP instead of S30v it woulda been an insta buy for me. I still bought one either way I guess
Spyderco has a manic depressive design shop. They'll come out with batshit looking curved skinning blades to the common Spydey hole knife which unless you read the name on the handle, you could maybe guess which model is which.
This was a bit of a disappointment. It's not much lighter or cheaper than the original but looks a lot cheaper. I was hoping for a budget version of the Sage 5 which is one of the best general purpose folders on the market but it's hard to imagine reccomending this with the other great options in Spyderco's lineup.
@@NickShabazz That's very kind of you, Nick. I've been a follower of yours for a couple of years now, and you never cease to impress me, I really admire you. I thought you had to ship the knife back to Spyderco as cellphone reviewers often do.
Nick es un fenómeno y su ética profesional está fuera de toda duda. Sin embargo, como todos los chicos tiene su tipo... tamaño medio, materiales de alta gama, estilo elegante, marcas conocidas y el factor juguete/guay.
I know people won't like it but the Bugout is about the same price... same steel and almost an ounce lighter and truly ambidextrous! With a larger cutting edge.
Hey Nick, I think if any of your audience has frn versions of the chaparral, native 5, para 3, and of course delica you know there’s absolutely no way are we’re not going to get the frn sage 5. We’re in too deep to stop now.
The Para3 LW is so much lighter because it uses a lesser BD1N steel instead S30V like the full size Para 3. The Sage 5 and Sage 5 lightweight have the same blade. That being said, I love my full size Sage 5 and would never own an FRN knife
I have been contemplating for several months between the Sage 5 LW, Chaparral, and PM3 LW. Here are the ultimate reasons for why I chose to hold out for the Sage:
1. Fidget-able locking mechanism (unlike the Chaparral’s back-lock)
2. Thinner blade stock than the PM3 (LW)
3. S30V for $30 more over the PM3’s BD1N
4. PM3 only has a half liner
The Chaparral has a very appealing blade stock and is the best bang-for-buck since you get CTS-XHP for $95, but the back-lock really turns me off. The PM3 is a good value but I couldn’t get over the blade stock and liner situation. Therefore, the Sage, which catered to all my interests, won.
I went with Chaparral FRN and I say world needs a Chaparral FRN with compression lock.
@@Lumpy_Peter I'm sure the world doesn't really give a shit, but I'd give the world for that🤤
Agree on all 4 counts. Just pulled the trigger on a Sage 5 LW. Now if the USPS would stop slow-walking on the delivery, that would be a good thing. (No reflection on the USPS workers, just the new Postmaster!)
it is para 3 not paramilitary 3. but whatever, I dont get what you been para 3 only has a half liner
That’s pretty much where I am now. I need something distinctly not-aggressive, so I’m leaning towards the Chappy. But I do prefer a compression lock. I think the blade stock and the fact that I’m not a huge fan of Spyderco S30V are probably going to win out, but I would definitely take this over the Para 3 LW.
I think one way to look at it is this: Spyderco gives you many ways to own a gem and has accommodated a wide variety of personal preferences. Not a bad problem to have...
But which do I get? Sage 5 or Native 5? Or something else?!
@@jonahjonah000 i was in doubt too! 🤣 I went with the native 5
Good review (knife puppets aside). The reason that I bought the Sage 5 LW is that I greatly prefer the looks of the leaf-shaped blade to the Para 3 blades. The Para 3 always seemed too “triangular” to me.
The sage 5 lw is for folks that want a para 3 lw that doesn't feel as cheap and bendy with a great action that doesn't sacrifice centering and blade play and like the leaf blade. They get all of this plus the pivot bushing for 30 bucks less than the sage 5.
Don't get me wrong but I don't feel like the Para 3 LW is bendy at all. Like I can bend it but I can bend knives with steel liners too if I really try and at no point does it bend enough to touch sides nor enough that I feel it would bend in regular use in your grip. I haven't had an issue with play in mine either though centering is impossible and the pivot bushing being brought up as a separate thing from the action feels like a cop out but whatever.
I think the Sage 5 LW is okay but it really doesn't stand out. The Sage 5 -> LW only drops half an ounce compared to the P3 which drops a full oz, the Sage 5 ->LW drops 30 bucks as opposed to 40 for the P3 LW. Also the P3 LW comes in under the significant price point of $100 while the Sage 5 LW doesn't. I don't think it's a bad knife but it doesn't really stand out as Nick said.
I think for me I'd be more likely to recommend the knife to anyone who wanted a Sage 5 but didn't care about the handle material than I am to suggest it for anyone who was looking for a P3 LW unless they told me they felt like the P3 LW was hideous because of the blade shape.
@@gnomersy1087 my para 3 is bendy in my opinion. Also the feeling of cheapness builds when considering it being off center, one washer, lesser steel and penchant for side to side play if the action is free enough to fidget. All of those improve after paying 25 bucks for the sage lightweight. 35 for a pm3 and 55 for a sage 5. Don't get me wrong. My para 3 lightweight isn't going anywhere, but my sage 5 lw is getting more play time while the para 3 lightweight is getting work duty.
@@gnomersy1087 I also think spyderco are looking at these knives in terms of the compression lock. The p3lw is the cheapest way to get one and on up the ladder we go. That's why the other knife comparisons are strange. They have mechanisms that are just not as fun to play with as the compression lock. And spyderco puts s premium on fun. 😂
@@chrishall1407 I dunno maybe you got a dud or I got a better example but like I said the flex is minimal for me(although I'm comparing it to steel liners and the bugout as the top and bottom range of flex) and I don't get play but I do agree it can feel cheap in execution given the centering issue the lack of a second washer and different steel choice(Though from test data I still think BD1N is probably a better steel than most people give it credit for)
But I think that's the point if you compare the Sage 5 "LW" to the Para 3 G10 it's a 10 dollar reduction which is pretty normal for FRN then if you look at the weight it's like a half oz less which is pretty normal for FRN I just feel like calling it a Lightweight knife is a little out of place. To me it feels like they just took a Sage 5 slapped on FRN scales added some incremental improvements and decided it was a lightweight knife?
@@gnomersy1087 you know what... I maaaaaay have gotten a bad one. But it ain't bad enough to get rid of or send it in. 😂
the sage 5 lightweight is the best option for someone who wants a slicy compression lock folder under 3 oz (that you can also spydie flick). Sage 5 is barely too heavy and Sage 5 lightweight is barely light enough. Paramilitary options all have blade stock that is too thick. The Ikuchi has thin blade stock but cant be spydie flicked and the compression lock finger space is limited. The kapara is too long a blade for edc and too heavy. I finally can sell my PM2 and replace it with the sage 5 lightweight to keep one compression lock knife in my collection. The wire clip mixed with lightweight is perfect to slide into my gym pants side pockets that have zippers.
Reid, I have a question for you about it. Would you say the Sage 5 Light Weight can be considered one of their "Little Big Knives", in this sense: It is lightweight and compact enough to pack away in one's pocket comfortably, but, it is durable, tough, and resilient enough to handle major cutting tasks, even such things as fishing and emergency survival, if needed?
@@TheCerametal i would say so. Although i'd say even an FRN handle without steel liners is durable enough
Sage 5 is a Native 5 with compression lock. It’s also a smaller version of the Shaman. This is where the Sage 5 exceeds imo. I own a ton of Spydies and my back locks sit in a drawer.
I'd love to see it done in colors other than black.
I ordered one today and that is exactly what I was thinking. Even gray like the chaparral.
"Theres my sage advice" Nick you are a fricken gem
Nick, I think it’s somewhat clear where the Sage 5 fits: it’s a compression lock Native 5 with the improved action. Maybe not a huge market, but if you are recommending to someone wanting a Native with c-lock, there you go. 👍
I understand why Spyderco made this, but i don't agree. The sage line was originally designed to show off different locking mechanisms using a one design knife. The compression lock exists with the sage 5. If they actually made it lightweight like the para 3 lw, sure why not. But they could have easily incorporated a button lock or a scorpion lock or SOMETHING new for the line and made a sage 6.
Agreed. I feel like it should have used the excellent Smock "Button" Compression Lock. Some nice rounded Micarta scales would have made it an insta-buy for me.
In my humble opinion, the Chaparral frn is the best Spyderco knife around for the average urban type. It's a bit stiff on the back lock at the start but that goes away. It's not as flicky as the Sage but it's a knife you carry and use, light, sharp, strong and very well made. Flicky, fun, phallic knives are not really much use off the sofa or out of the outback.
Where all Spydercos are stiff is when it comes to the prices but the Chaparral frn could one of the better values.
The leaf style blades are so useful though. Just the right amount of belly but you still get a fine point.
I ended up getting the Sage 5 LW for my first real Spyderco and I couldn't be happier. It just ticks all the boxes for me and has easily become my most heavily used carry knife, except for my hiking knife Mora.
It also gives me an excuse to buy a PM3 to make sure I made the right decision 😉
I want this on OD green or brown with lc200n...
The main reason why I bought a Sage 5 lightweight is because I am able to make my own custom scales, since it has steel liners.
I was going to buy a para 3 lightweight but you can’t customize it without running into problems. Same with the manix 2 lightweight and the Dragonfly 2. Customization is a big deal. 👍
Its the full liners that make the weight more compared to the pm3
I've got the same Chaparral LW : love it, and just got a blue G-10 Manix 2: love it as well. I'm flipping back and forth between the Sage 5 and Native 5 for my next Spydie purchase. Personally, I love the leaf shaped blades, my problem is: what I REALLY want is a Sage 5 or Native 5 with the ball bearing lock from the Manix 2. Hopefully Sal will come out with that configuration soon.
yea a ball bearing lock on a Native 5 sounds like a great idea. Feel like it would be a good lock especially on smaller knives. On a Manix 2 it isn't as comfortable to use due its size
Having steel liners in your knife handle is important, right? Having a lock mechanism you enjoy is important too, right? This is why the Sage 5 LW is "better" than both the Chapparal and the Para 3 LW
McFart!
the sage handle with choils make it great for a large hand. so I see handle size as a plus
This review may be flawed based on the previous review the presenter did on the Spyderco Para 3 LW. The Sage 5 is clearly the superior knife in terms of fit and finish. The weight difference between the two is negligible. I found the main issues with the Para 3 LW are the sacrifices made in construction to save weight. The Para 3 only uses one washer and half of a compression lock. As a result, the knife is not easily centered without greatly affecting blade play which becomes excessive. For $122, the Sage 5 LW is only marginally more expensive than the Para 3 black blade and has the superior fit and finish and quality of it's little brother, the Chaparral LW.
One of my easiest to carry knives. Lightweight with a good blade.
Well that was confusing...🤔
I ordered the sage5 this morning. Can't help it, I love the compression lock.
Have to give higher fidget points to the C lock. Can't stop playing with my para3.
Great video Nick.
My first Sage was a Sage 1, which I chose from the full line of Sages because I like liner locks. Since that time however, I have taken an interest in Para 3s, to the extent that I now own, and most have customized about 25 knives. Anyway, I have come to LOVE compression locks! When I was reminded that the Sage 5 has a compression lock, I bought one. It was fine the way it was, though I hate FRN knife scales, then I became aware of some really nIce titanium RGT replacement scales, so I jumped at that chance! I bought both a Sage 5 with S30V steel and the RGT scales and immediately put them together. The knife is nearly perfect! I was skeptical about the Japanese manufacture, which may not be quite as good as the American stuff, but it is quite good! I am intrigued by the question, is it a better Para 3? It is similarly good! When I can buy Sage 5s in 20 different blade steels, and when the aftermarket scale makers make some better scales for the Sage 5 (as RGT has started doing), then I might consider the Sage 5 to be as good as the Para 3. Until that time, I will certainly build a few, with custom scales, etc. My Sage 5 might very likely, as often as not, be the one I carry… I really, really like it!
I think the sage 5 LW beats the para3 LW in every single way except the weight - and personally I like the slightly heavier option with steel liners and 2 full bushings.
It solves both problems with the super-GEM Chaparral - it’s small and the back lock is hard to push.
IMHO I think the para3lw is the one that shouldn’t exist, and the Delica needs to retire.
Agreed except whereas I wouldn't own a Para of any size I'd hate to deprive its devotees.
When you compare it to Chaparral or Native (I am holding the former in my hand right now), I'd say the biggest factor tipping it to Sage is the compression lock. The lockback on Chaparral is just so stiff it makes it unusable. I am an avid mushroom picker, and for me the easy deployment is everything. The blades are comparable. Both powder, with Spyderco hardening it makes it a tie. So, lockback is a huge disappointment, and I will be selling my Chaparral and buying the Sage. Thanks for your review.
The Native 5 lightweight with cruwear that I saw at the beginning.... is that a past sprint run? Interested in that if it is available someplace.
Looking at it for what it is, and not as something that lives amongst a cornucopia of Spyderco knives, it just seems like a well-designed knife. This is going high in my wish list 👍🏽
As a leftie, I still have an issue with that wire clip and the compression lock Spyderco is throwing on all the light weight knives. I need the clip so I can press the compression lock with my left thumb and my finger gripping into the clip to use with that hand and it is going to result in that clip eventually coming loose from side to side flexing and eventually you will lose that clip. So, unless I end up with a specific left handed knife or a better clip option, it is a pain.
I would rather have had a compression lock Chaparral Lightweight, any day of the week and twice on Sunday.
I was thinking the same thing!
Great idea
It's good to see that I am not the only one requesting this. Compression lock FRN Chaparral would be a killer. Not to mention that ditching that lock bar and heavy steel back spacer would affect the weight significantly. Then it could take out the Bugout. It would be very light, slicy, fidgety and sporting a better steel.
I want a compression lock Dragonfly and Delica
The sage ergos beat the snot out of the para 3 for me. But I deeply hate Spyderco peel-ply CF, so I've been waiting for the sage 5 lw for months. I'm waiting to see one for around $90 on Reddit. Great review and I love the talking knives!
@@edrader By far. Spyderco peel ply CF is the worst in the industry of mid to high end companies. They can make good CF like with the Kapara or Sprint run Shaman, but their standard CF on g-10 is just cheap and lazy. So yeah I definitely prefer molded plastic to that. I love Spyderco, but really wish they'd upgrade all their models to real CF.
that would also upgrade price. i bought a lightweight manix once but returned it. to me plastic is cheap. much prefer G10
@@edrader yeah I prefer g-10 too. But normal and not pretending to be CF. I'd happily pay an extra 40 or 60 for real CF scales. And I'll also happily accept the lower price for plastic scales and CTS-BD1N steel like on the para 3 LW. I prefer the weight reduction anyways. Either give me LW plastic scales, or make your scales real CF for a higher price. They're capable of it, but just cheap out.
Lately I've seen it online for around $113 which seems a bit cheaper than the average. That was enough for me to pull the trigger - hey I got a little over-excited what can I say.
sounds like cutting off your nose to spite your face. the original sage 5 is very light (I own one). I think this was a senseless "upgrade" unless you like plastic. time will tell
I am going with the Sage 5! I love the full linners and shape better than para 3.
Spyderco is certainly a business. Sometimes you can increase profitability by adding another variation. Could it be as simple as that?
I have yet to buy a spyderco but I am a fan of the leaf shape blades. Not sure if I’d like it better than my current favorite blade shape being tanto for strong tip.
I have been enjoying your reviews for some time now so thanx for good, great, bad and the ugly!
Knowing how the blade and handle length balance out matters a whole lot to me so cheers to you for pointing that out when others seem to skip the balance of the knife!
Joyous blessings to you and yours, have a great holiday!
“Vaseline factory ready knife.” That's a pretty good grip.
I just ordered one today & your review really helped my buying decision. I have the Delica, but I wanted to try a compression lock Spyderco in the same size. I love the leaf style blade shape. I think it looks much better than the hump back thing going on with the Delica & Para 3. I understand the hump back is more ergonomic, it just looks ugly to me. I forgive the Delica's looks, because it's such a great knife. For me, the Sage 5 LW was the perfect match in blade shape, size, & compression lock requirements. 👍
I always thought the same thing about the various spyderco knives of similar shapes and sizes. What's the point?
I view this range of knives by Spyderco basically as variations on the Delica. The Delica is such a popular and enduring knife that it makes sense to offer it in a variety of iterations. I love my Delica but I don't want to carry the same thing every day so something that checks the same boxes but is different enough to feel novel is great.
Spyderco really understand the collector's mindset and they capitalize on it.
Nick Shabaz commenting on the grip ergonomics of the Spyderco Sage 5, “This is a Vasaline factory ready knife.” You’re killing me!
I think I'll order one soon. I just got a para 3 lightweight which I'm sending back, not a fan of it at all. Mine has play, a bad action, and it honestly feels too light. This one looks more up my ally.
Although honestly I'd prefer the new bushing in the regular sage even more
I tried putting my reg sage 5 scales on my lightweight and the bottom scale screw is 1/8” off. It fits perfectly otherwise
FRN, Para blade, back lock = Delica 4
FRN, Para blade, compression lock = Para 3 LW
FRN, Leaf blade, back lock = Native 5 LW
FRN, Leaf blade, compression lock = Sage 5 LW
FRN, leaf blade, back lock, as compact as possible = Chaparral FRN
"Vaseline factory ready knife" always cracks me up.😂 Like a Vaseline factory has the stuff all over the place with factory workers slipping & falling 😂🤣😅
I guess it's better than saying "You will be able to get a good grip on this knife when your hand is covered in blood. "
Your size comparison was kind of like 3 card Monty. "Keep your eye on the sage 5"... "It's the one on top"... "Nope, that's the Manix 2"... "Dang it... Wait... WAS there a Manix 2?" I love your reviews, but be careful... You might be highlighting a disorder most of us have when you drop 10 VERY similar knives right next to each other. ;)
But would it be appropriate for a KY Jelly factory? Just wondering. 🤔
For those who like the leaf design this should be in your collection if it isn’t already. Had mine for over a year and a half still use it a lot.
You CAN do the compression lock with your LEFT hand but it’s not pleasant, safe or preferable. I own this and a bugout but will always take the bugout, can’t risk dropping your knife in a high risk situation because it CAN work. I need a left had version from spyderco or I just won’t spend my money again.
Nick, what is your opinion on the Spyderco mid range options with the price increases? sal said on the forums that there will be yet another MAP increase, and to me their mid range models like the Delica are already hard enough to justify at the current price. Do you think Spyderco is abandoning this market, and how would you make the knives more competitive?
I would have liked to see more of a comparison to the native lw. Aside from that good review as always
enjoyed! this sage talks to me cause i love the leaf blade and i just ordered one--and will probably try the para three lightweight. already have the chaparral and a drawer full of delicas.
Surprised you dont love it. I just figured its right up your path. Anyway. Happy holidays buddy. Take care of you and yours. Peace to you. Stay safe.
The contouring on the delica and the para 3 LW are soooo much better than the sage LW. I think that contributes to how they feel less "cheap".
Got one and love it. Re action it has the best action of any lightweight. 👍
@nick, does your scale need to be calibrated, or is Spyderco falsely advertising? They list the weight at 2.7oz, your scale says 2.85. Man, the sage, manix, native, how can one choose?!?
So it's safe to say you prefer the para 3 LW?
Hey Nick, does the para 3 LW have a pivot bushing like this one? Is the action the same?
No the para 3 doesn't a have bushing pivot yet. My para 3 is smooth but has blade play to drop shut. I'm hoping the sage bushing system will fix this
@@wrliggin2 Are you going to get a sage for the bushing and put it in your para 3?
@@wrliggin2 my kapara has the bushing pivot and it is very smooth with zero blade play
@@drewestes I'm waiting for prices on the secondary market to get around $90. I love the sage series and I'm thinking the sage 5 lw will replace my para 3 lw. Really interesting idea though about switching the bushing to the para 3.
@@wrliggin2 It's a good idea but it might not work correctly because of the way that the bushing fits on. The para 3 LW might not accommodate a pivot bushing. It would be very nice if it could work.
Merry Christmas & Good review Nick 🙂
Thanks, man. Nice review. Great knife, but I agree about the weight. I'm a bit disappointed that it's not lighter.
Just picked up the sage 5 after watching your video with M4 steel.
Great review Nick. I love the Chaparral.
Basically the same knife as the reg sage5 just different scales and pivot bushing
I've been looking for a Vaseline ready knife
That Para 3 lightweight is the Bugout Killer.
Good review , thank you for sharing ! I agree on the "Lightweight" claim.
Love the talking knives bit Nick.
Bought one last week and have already sent it back. I did exactly as you did, Nick. I laid the Sage 5 "Lightweight" next to my Delica, Native 5 and Para 3LW. As nice as it is, I realized that I simply liked all of those other knives better. As stated, it really should be called the Sage 5 FRN. I have a Para3 LW and a Manix 2 LW, and the Sage just doesn't completely jive with the concept they have established.
I love leaf shaped blades and the oval shape when closed. For the price, I'd probably just save up a bit more for a shaman.
I think they are very different knives, the shaman is heavier and generally thicker in all respects
@@deathbyastonishment7930 I know. Both knives are just part of spyderco's "native" family.
If this had the same grey colour as the Chap lightweight and XHP instead of S30v it woulda been an insta buy for me. I still bought one either way I guess
Ty from rest of the world, love your reviews.
I have the same action in my 20CV/CF Yojimbo 2
Spyderco has a manic depressive design shop. They'll come out with batshit looking curved skinning blades to the common Spydey hole knife which unless you read the name on the handle, you could maybe guess which model is which.
Bought this and dropped it hunting first week..lol..um too poor to debut it for bit but I admit I love this knife and action .back to the elementem
Tbh it's the best EDC knife I've ever owned ... But for work (wearhouse) my 550-1 grip is king
This was a bit of a disappointment. It's not much lighter or cheaper than the original but looks a lot cheaper. I was hoping for a budget version of the Sage 5 which is one of the best general purpose folders on the market but it's hard to imagine reccomending this with the other great options in Spyderco's lineup.
Muy bueno nicolas. Una pregunta, cuando Spyderco te manda una navaja, puedes quedártela?
No, lo pongo en un 'charity raffle' para ayudar a las víctimas de violencia doméstica
@@NickShabazz That's very kind of you, Nick. I've been a follower of yours for a couple of years now, and you never cease to impress me, I really admire you. I thought you had to ship the knife back to Spyderco as cellphone reviewers often do.
Nick es un fenómeno y su ética profesional está fuera de toda duda.
Sin embargo, como todos los chicos tiene su tipo... tamaño medio, materiales de alta gama, estilo elegante, marcas conocidas y el factor juguete/guay.
@@pauljosephbuggle3722 The last one was cool/fidget factor?
Micarta handles in this knife would look classy as heck. Maybe it's not a knife for FRN. Just saying.
Been waiting for this
I'll still wait for the blue or green Para 3 LW.
All the examples shown here are so similar as to make little difference if you already own one or the other.
Nick the knife whisperer.
I'm also' lost in Spyderco linup with so many competing models.
Great review, you're a gem. :)
"That's a great thing" 2:50
I like the ergos, size, the lock...the handle just looks a little cheap for the price.
I know people won't like it but the Bugout is about the same price... same steel and almost an ounce lighter and truly ambidextrous!
With a larger cutting edge.
Thank you for the grams.
Talking knives is the best part. lol
Yep - clicked the like button when they came out 🙂
The only exciting thing going on with Spyderco is the LC200N steel.
This video made me laugh, good job nick on the review. I like my para 3 light weight, I'll stick with that until or if they make the salt version : )
They should have taken the para 3 lw approach to this build.
COOL VIDEO! Thak you!
Yeah I agree, blade sticks up to much, and should be a little cheaper $ plus different color options!😫
Hey Nick, I think if any of your audience has frn versions of the chaparral, native 5, para 3, and of course delica you know there’s absolutely no way are we’re not going to get the frn sage 5. We’re in too deep to stop now.
The Para3 LW is so much lighter because it uses a lesser BD1N steel instead S30V like the full size Para 3. The Sage 5 and Sage 5 lightweight have the same blade.
That being said, I love my full size Sage 5 and would never own an FRN knife
Better steel doesn’t equal heavier steel though? It’s because of the liners
If you want a compression lock lightweight knife with better steel then bd1n around $120 with a hole in the blade...that is the why
Sage 5: Taiwan's version of a Native 5 and Delica 4 baby.
How can another Spyderco that’s just like a load of other Spydercos be in any way exciting?
That's a big part of my final conclusion!
Siiick. Sage it is
I have to wonder what your wife thought of "talking knives" XD
Love the talking knives!
I will take the Sage 5 LW over all of those knives. I actually bought one.