Brad Southard is an amazingly talented custom knifemaker who specializes in high-performance folder designs. His first collaboration with Spyderco features a "flipper"a novel blade-opening device that was pioneered by custom knifemaker Kit Carson. A flipper consists of a small lever that extends from the base of the Southards CTS 204P hollow-ground blade and protrudes from the back of the knifes handle when closed. Pulling on it with your index finger creates a tension against the detent mechanism that holds the blade closed. When the detent is overcome, the blade rotates on a special captive ball-bearing pivot system and snaps authoritatively into the open position. The Southards handle combines a textured Earth-brown G-10 scale and thick titanium liner on one side with a solid titanium scale on the other. The titanium scale forms the foundation of the knifes sturdy Reeve Integral Lock (R.I.L.) mechanism and features a small inlaid G-10 panel that acts as an overtravel stop when releasing the lock mechanism. It is also home to the knifes matching stainless steel clip, which supports right-side tip-up carry. Offering an amazing synthesis of ergonomics, functionality, and state-of-the-art materials, the Southard is one of the most advanced Spyderco folders ever produced.
Specifications
Blade Steel: Cts 204 P
Model Number: C 156 Gpbn
Lock Type: Frame Lock
Blade Thickness: 0.16 inches
Blade Length: 3.46 inches
Open Length: 7.96 inches
Weight: 4.1 ounces
Blade Edge: Plain
Finish Color: Satin
Style: Drop Point
Clip Type: Tip Up
Handle Material: G 10
Use Case: EDC
Origin: Taiwan
Pros vs Cons
Based on online reviews from verified buyers around the web.
Extremely fun to flip
Superb quality despite being made in Taiwan
Snappy flipping action
Superior blade steel (CTS-204P)
Lightweight with beautiful action
Excellent ergonomics
Very grippy G-10 handle
Solid build quality
Crazy sharp out of the box
Aesthetically appealing
Discontinued, making it hard to find a second knife