Spyderco Tenacious Review: The Best Budget Folder Ever Made?
For years, there was a massive gap in the knife world. You either bought a “gas station knife” that fell apart in a week, or you shelled out $100+ for a premium tool. Then came the Spyderco Tenacious.
Part of Spyderco’s “Value Folder” line, the Tenacious was designed with a simple mission: put high-performance ergonomics and cutting geometry into the hands of the working man at a price that doesn’t hurt. It is often described as the “gateway drug” to the Spyderco brand.
But does this budget-friendly folder still hold up? With Chinese manufacturing and 8Cr13MoV steel, can it really compete with its more expensive siblings like the Paramilitary 2? In this review, we’ll put the Tenacious through the wringer to see if it truly lives up to its name.
Don’t break the bank for quality. Get the knife that redefined the budget category.
Check Price on AmazonTechnical Specifications
The Tenacious is a mid-sized tactical folder. It feels substantial in the hand—not too heavy, but certainly not flimsy. It strikes a balance that inspires confidence during hard use.
| Blade Length | 3.39 inches (8.6 cm) |
|---|---|
| Cutting Edge | 3.39 inches (8.6 cm) |
| Overall Length | 7.77 inches (19.7 cm) |
| Closed Length | 4.38 inches (11.1 cm) |
| Blade Thickness | 0.118 inches (3 mm) |
| Weight | 4.10 ounces (116 g) |
| Handle Material | G-10 Laminate |
| Blade Steel | 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel |
| Lock Type | Liner Lock |
The Blade: Is 8Cr13MoV Good Enough?
The elephant in the room is the steel. The Tenacious uses 8Cr13MoV, a Chinese stainless steel often compared to AUS-8. In a world of super-steels, this might seem underwhelming, but context is key.
Performance
Spyderco’s heat treat extracts every ounce of performance from this steel. It takes a wicked sharp edge—often sharper out of the box than knives costing three times as much. It slices through cardboard, rope, and plastic with ease thanks to the full flat grind and classic leaf shape.
However, edge retention is average. You will need to sharpen it more often than S30V. But because the steel is softer, it is incredibly easy to maintain. If you are learning how to use a sharpening stone vs. honing steel, this is the perfect practice knife because it responds instantly to abrasives.
For a deeper dive into why some prefer premium steels over budget options, check our guide on stainless steel vs. carbon steel, but rest assured: for daily tasks, 8Cr13MoV gets the job done.
G-10 Handle & Liner Lock
Usually, budget knives suffer from cheap plastic handles. Not the Tenacious. It features G-10 scales (glass-reinforced epoxy laminate) over full stainless steel liners. The texture is grippy but not aggressive, providing excellent traction even when wet.
Ergonomics
This is where Spyderco shines. The handle shape is neutral but comfortable, accommodating large hands easily. There is a ramp with jimping on the spine of the blade where your thumb naturally rests, giving you precise control for detail work.
The Lock
It utilizes a Walker Liner Lock. While not as fancy as the Compression Lock or Axis Lock, the liner lock on the Tenacious is executed perfectly. It engages early, locks up solid with zero blade play, and disengages smoothly.
Solid lockup, premium G-10 feel, and perfect ergonomics—for a fraction of the cost.
Check Price on AmazonDeployment & Action
The Tenacious features the iconic Spyderco Round Hole. This allows for ambidextrous deployment using your thumb. Because the knife uses phosphor bronze washers (rare at this price point), the action is incredibly smooth.
You can slow-roll it open for a discreet cut, or “Spydie flick” it open with your middle finger for rapid deployment. The detent is well-tuned, ensuring the blade stays closed in your pocket but fires open when you want it to.
Pocket Clip & Ergonomics
The Tenacious comes with a 4-way pocket clip. You can carry it tip-up or tip-down, on the left or right side. This makes it a truly ambidextrous tool.
At 4.1 ounces, it is heavier than the Spyderco Delica 4, but many users prefer the added heft. It feels like a tool meant for work. The clip is strong and holds the knife securely, though some of the handle does stick out of the pocket (it is not a deep-carry clip).
Tenacious vs. The Competition
Spyderco Tenacious vs. Ontario RAT 1
This is the battle of the budget kings. The RAT 1 feels more like a survival knife, while the Tenacious feels more tactical and slicey. The Tenacious has better G-10 handles (vs. Nylon on the RAT), but the RAT 1 is often slightly cheaper. If you want grip, go Spyderco.
Spyderco Tenacious vs. Spyderco Paramilitary 2
The Tenacious is often called the “Poor Man’s PM2.” They share a similar silhouette and size. The PM2 has far superior steel (S45VN) and a better lock (Compression Lock), but it costs 3-4 times as much. The Tenacious gets you 90% of the ergonomics for 25% of the price.
The undisputed king of value. Experience Spyderco performance without the premium price tag.
Check Price on AmazonPros & Cons
The Pros
- Incredible value for money.
- Real G-10 handles (not cheap plastic).
- 4-way pocket clip (fully ambidextrous).
- Full flat grind makes it an amazing slicer.
- Smooth action on bronze washers.
The Cons
- 8Cr13MoV steel requires frequent sharpening.
- Liner lock is good, but not a Compression lock.
- Not a deep-carry clip (knife shows in pocket).
- Made in China (for those who prefer USA made).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Spyderco Tenacious worth buying?
Absolutely. It is widely considered one of the top 5 best value knives on the market. It offers professional-grade ergonomics and build quality at an entry-level price.
Does the Tenacious rust easily?
8Cr13MoV is a stainless steel, but it has less chromium than premium steels. It resists rust well in normal conditions, but if exposed to saltwater or sweat, it should be cleaned and oiled regularly.
Is it legal to carry?
With a blade length of 3.39 inches, it is legal in most US states. However, it is a locking knife, which makes it illegal to carry in restrictive areas like the UK without a “good reason.” Always check local laws.
Can I change the scales on the Tenacious?
Yes. Because the knife is so popular, there is a large aftermarket community making custom scales in copper, brass, titanium, and carbon fiber (often costing more than the knife itself!).
What is the Tenacious Lightweight?
Spyderco recently released a “Lightweight” version with FRN handles (like the Delica). It is lighter and offers better grip texture, often at a similar price point. It also features the new S35VN steel options in some premium versions.
How do I sharpen the serrated version?
If you buy the fully serrated “SpyderEdge” version, you cannot use a flat stone. You will need a rod-based system like the Spyderco Sharpmaker to sharpen the individual teeth.
Is the liner lock safe?
Yes. The liner lock on the Tenacious is robust. While no folder is a fixed blade, this lock will not fail under normal and even heavy cutting tasks.
Does it have ball bearings?
No, it uses phosphor bronze washers. This is actually a pro for a work knife, as washers are more resistant to dirt and grit than ball bearings.
Final Verdict
The Spyderco Tenacious proves that you don’t need to be a millionaire to own a world-class tool. It strips away the vanity of exotic materials and focuses entirely on function.
If you are looking for a beater knife that cuts like a laser, or if you are new to the world of quality cutlery, the Tenacious is the answer. It remains, after all these years, the king of the budget folder.
