The Shaman takes everything that made the Native series successful and scales it into a larger, more substantial platform. Introduced in 2017, it quickly earned a devoted following among users who wanted Native-style ergonomics with more blade and handle to work with. The result is one of Spyderco's most capable hard-use folders.
Manufactured in Golden, Colorado, the Shaman benefits from Spyderco's direct quality control and has become one of the most popular platforms for sprint runs and dealer exclusives.
The Shaman's 3.58-inch blade features a leaf-shaped profile with a slightly more aggressive curve than the Native. The full-flat grind creates thin cutting geometry that slices efficiently through tough materials, while the acute tip handles detail work and piercing tasks.
The handle design sets the Shaman apart. Sculpted G-10 scales follow the natural contours of the hand, with subtle curves that lock the knife in place during use. A textured thumb ramp and finger choil provide multiple grip options—choke up for precision work or grip back for power cuts. Spyderco's signature Round Hole enables fast, ambidextrous deployment.
The Shaman employs Spyderco's patented Compression Lock, the same mechanism found on the Paramilitary 2 and Para 3. A leaf-like spring wedges between the blade tang and stop pin, creating exceptional lock strength. Press down from the spine side to close—keeping fingers clear of the blade path.
The Shaman fills a specific niche: users who want a larger working knife with refined ergonomics and proven mechanisms. The aftermarket offers replacement scales and accessories—shop Shaman scales by Ripp's Garage Tech. Sprint runs and exclusives feature new steels and unique handle configurations.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Blade Length | 3.58" |
| Cutting Edge | 3.15" |
| Overall Length | 8.35" |
| Closed Length | 4.78" |
| Blade Thickness | 0.150" |
| Weight | 5.2 oz |
| Handle Material | G-10 (standard); variants include Micarta, carbon fiber |
| Lock Type | Compression Lock |
| Pocket Clip | Four-position, tip-up/tip-down, left/right |
| Made in USA | Golden, Colorado |