The Native series represents Spyderco's commitment to the principles that built the company: thoughtful ergonomics, efficient cutting geometry, and reliable mechanisms executed without compromise. Where other Spyderco models push innovation with patented locks and exotic constructions, the Native embraces the refined simplicity of a traditional back lock—elevated through five generations of continuous improvement.
Every knife in the Native family is manufactured in Golden, Colorado, giving Spyderco direct control over quality and allowing rapid iteration on design refinements.
The Native's full-flat grind creates thin cutting geometry that slices efficiently, while the leaf-shaped profile provides enough belly for general work and a refined tip for detail tasks. Spyderco's signature Round Hole enables fast, ambidextrous deployment.
The ergonomic handle features a pronounced finger choil that serves dual purposes: choke up for precise control, or use it as a safety guard during one-handed closing. Textured FRN or G-10 scales provide secure grip, and the four-position pocket clip accommodates any carry preference.
The Native employs a refined back lock mechanism—one of the oldest and most proven folding knife locks. A spring-loaded rocker arm engages a notch in the blade tang, locking it firmly open. Press the rocker to release and close.
The Native 5 hits the sweet spot for everyday carry—substantial enough for real work, compact enough to disappear in a pocket. The Lil' Native scales down for maximum compactness while retaining the full ergonomic handle shape. The Native Chief scales up with a 4-inch blade for larger tasks. Sprint runs and exclusives offer unique steel and handle combinations for collectors.
| Specification | Native 5 | Lil' Native | Native Chief |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blade Length | 3.0" | 2.44" | 4.0" |
| Overall Length | 7.0" | 5.94" | 9.13" |
| Closed Length | 4.0" | 3.5" | 5.13" |
| Weight | 2.5 oz (FRN) / 3.4 oz (G-10) | 2.0 oz (FRN) / 2.6 oz (G-10) | 3.25 oz (FRN) / 4.4 oz (G-10) |
| Handle Material | FRN or G-10 | FRN or G-10 | FRN or G-10 |
| Lock Type | Back Lock | Compression Lock or Back Lock | Back Lock |
| Pocket Clip | Four-position | Four-position | Four-position |
| Made in USA | Golden, Colorado | Golden, Colorado | Golden, Colorado |