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Spyderco Para 3
The Spyderco Para 3 delivers the performance and build quality of the legendary Paramilitary 2 in a more compact, pocket-friendly package. Introduced in 2016, the Para 3 answered years of requests from EDC enthusiasts who wanted a smaller knife without sacrificing the features that made the PM2 an icon. The result is one of the most capable sub-3-inch folders ever produced. Every Para 3 is manufactured in Golden, Colorado.
The Para 3 descends from a lineage that began with Spyderco's full-size Military in 1996. The Military proved itself as a hard-use folder but was too large for comfortable daily carry. Spyderco responded with the original Paramilitary in 2004 and refined it into the Paramilitary 2 in 2010. Still, many users wanted something even smaller—a knife that could disappear in shallower pockets while retaining the cutting authority of its larger siblings. Rather than simply scaling down the PM2, Spyderco maintained the same handle width and blade stock thickness while trimming overall length. The "3" in the name refers to the blade length, not a third-generation Paramilitary. The result is a knife that feels like a purpose-built compact EDC rather than a shrunken compromise.
Built to Cut
The Para 3 features a 2.95-inch full-flat-ground blade with Spyderco's leaf-shaped profile. Despite the shorter length, the blade retains excellent cutting geometry—the full-flat grind slices efficiently, while the slightly faster taper toward the tip provides a robust point that resists chipping during detail work. The oversized 14mm Round Hole allows fast, ambidextrous one-handed deployment, and a textured thumb ramp and finger choil support multiple grip positions for precision or power cuts.
One refinement the Para 3 introduced over the PM2 is chamfered handle edges. The rounded corners eliminate the boxy hot spots some users noticed on the PM2 during extended cutting sessions, making the Para 3 noticeably more comfortable in hand during heavy use. The G-10 handle scales are textured for secure grip without being overly aggressive, and the nested stainless steel liners maintain structural integrity while keeping the profile slim. Open-backed construction allows easy cleaning and further reduces weight.
The Compression Lock
The Para 3 shares the same Compression Lock mechanism that has earned the PM2 its legendary reputation. This Spyderco-patented design wedges a leaf-like spring between the blade tang and stop pin, creating exceptional lock strength. Unlike liner locks, the Compression Lock allows safe one-handed closing without placing fingers in the blade path—simply press down on the lock from the spine side to disengage. The mechanism is fully ambidextrous and inspires confidence whether you are slicing cardboard or working through tougher materials.
Standard and Lightweight Models
The Para 3 is available in two primary configurations. The standard G-10 model features nested stainless steel liners, textured G-10 scales, and a four-position pocket clip for versatile carry options. It weighs approximately 3.4 ounces and offers the full structural rigidity expected from a hard-use folder.
The Para 3 Lightweight strips weight even further by eliminating steel liners and using injection-molded FRN handle scales. This configuration drops weight to around 2.4 ounces, making it one of the lightest Compression Lock knives Spyderco produces. The Lightweight sacrifices some lateral rigidity but remains more than capable for typical EDC tasks, and its lower price point makes it an accessible entry into the Para 3 platform.
Why the Para 3
The Para 3 occupies a sweet spot for users who find the PM2 slightly larger than necessary for daily carry. Its sub-3-inch blade meets legal requirements in more jurisdictions and disappears in shallower pockets, while the full-width handle maintains comfortable ergonomics for a wide range of hand sizes. The Compression Lock provides the same security and ease of use as its larger sibling. For urban environments, office carry, or situations where a more discreet knife is preferable, the Para 3 delivers PM2-level performance in a more compact form.
Sprint Runs and Exclusives
Like the PM2, the Para 3 platform supports a wide range of Sprint Runs and Exclusives featuring unique blade steels and handle configurations. These limited-production variants offer everything from high-wear-resistance tool steels to corrosion-proof alloys for marine environments, paired with handle materials ranging from canvas Micarta to colored G-10 and FRN. Sprint runs sell quickly—sign up for notifications to secure yours when new releases drop.
Spyderco Para 3 Specs
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Blade Length | 2.95" |
| Cutting Edge | 2.56" |
| Overall Length | 7.24" |
| Closed Length | 4.29" |
| Blade Thickness | 0.145" |
| Weight | 3.4 oz (varies by configuration) |
| Handle Material | G-10 (standard); variants include Micarta, FRN |
| Lock Type | Compression Lock |
| Pocket Clip | Four-position, tip-up/tip-down, left/right |
| Made in USA | Golden, Colorado |