Spyderco named this knife after its principal job function, to Assist. The Assist was designed for emergency/fire/rescue professionals (and for the well-equipped civilian) who rely on their knives to function flawlessly under pressure. The VG-10 patented blunt-tipped blade is a toothy eighty-percent SpyderEdged for aggressively cutting seatbelts and fibrous material. The last inch of the tip Spyderco left PlainEdge for detailed cutting (think sharpening pencils). Perched above the Round Hole, a Cobra Hood positions the thumb directly over the hole for quick blade deployment, then doubles as a leveraging platform for the thumb. The wavy pattern cut from the top of the blade (created by a fireman from Sweden) and along the inside of the handle let you place a piece of rope (between the half-open blade and handle) and scissor the blade shut- especially convenient for cutting rope in-and-around flesh without having to fully open/expose the knife's blade. The safety orange FRN handle is a molded wonder of Bi-Directional textured contours and bulges that ergonomically wrap around your palm. In the closed position, squeeze the blade deeper into the handle and a retractable carbide tip protrudes out from the base for breaking glass. Outlined in contrasting black on the handle's spine is a shrill and attention-pitched survival whistle. Carries left/right handed, tip-up by means of a tension wire clip.
Specifications
Blade Steel: Vg 10
Model Number: C 79 Psor
Lock Type: Lock Back
Blade Thickness: 0.13 inches
Handle Thickness: 0.63 inches
Blade Length: 3.69 inches
Open Length: 8.38 inches
Weight: 4 ounces
Blade Edge: Serrated
Finish Color: Satin
Style: Sheepsfoot
Clip Type: Tip Up
Handle Material: Frn
Use Case: Tactical
Origin: Japan
Pros vs Cons
Based on online reviews from verified buyers around the web.
Perfect for emergency situations without intimidating pointed blade
Great for cutting seatbelts and fibrous materials
Includes a whistle for signaling in emergencies
Effective glass breaker with carbide tip
Ergonomic handle design for a secure grip
Durable serrated blade that remains sharp over time
Quick and easy deployment with the cobra hood feature
FRN jimping seems ineffective and could be improved
Considered a niche knife for emergency workers, not practical for everyday carry