SPYDERCO’S Lil TEMPERANCE 3
By: Sal Palma
Spyderco’s original Temperance was an impressive, fixed blade offering, that superbly played the role of utilitarian and defensive tool.
In 2001, the Temperance’s original design objectives carried forward to a muscular folder which Spyderco branded as Lil Temperance. Development progressed resulting in a Lil Temperance 2. These combat-oriented leaf blade folders were discontinued in 2004.
In 2017, Spyderco made the decision to resuscitate this exceptional folder, introducing the Lil Temperance 3, the subject of my review.
The Lil Temperance 3 can only be described as a top-of-the-line EDC pocket folder. It may be named Lil, but rest assured this folder is mighty.
The Lil Temperance 3 features a CPM S30V, 3inch leaf blade with a gorgeous flat grind. Its 0.157-inch blade thickness qualifies this 3rd generation as a robust working knife and very capable edged weapon.
The knife is perfectly balanced and sits comfortably in the hand. I found its overall length to be perfect for just about any use; its blade length and handle length ratio is perfect. Overall length is a hair over 7 inches with a handle of about 4.5 inches. The G10 grip scales are mounted on a stainless-steel liner and feature a generous finger coil and excellent texture, so purchase is near perfect.
Copyright 2023, Twobirds Flying Publications, All Rights
Spyderco went with their traditional hourglass clip design, which can be relocated using the provided mounting points. You can carry the Lil Temperance 3 right or left side and tip up or tip down. You can’t ask for a more flexible EDC folder.
Manufacturer Specifications:
• Overall Length: 7.30" (185mm)
• Blade Length: 2.90" (74mm)
• Steel: CPM S30V
• Closed Length: 4.40" (112mm)
• Edge Length: 2.90" (74mm)
• Weight: 4.0oz (113g)
• Blade Thickness: 0.157" (4.0mm)
• Handle: G-10
• Clip Position: Ambidextrous
• Tip Carry Position: 4-position.
• Lock Type: Compression
• Grind: Full-Flat
• Sheath: N/A
• Origin: Japan
Spyderco uses a compression lock, which was developed by Spyderco and provide a rock-solid lock-up, I normally don’t do prying with a pocket folder but this knife is up to the task.
If you’re doing heavy cutting, you’ll like the jimping on the blade’s thumb rest, it enhances the already excellent grip ergonomics.
The Lil Temperance 3’s axis is smooth, and you can deploy the blade easily and quickly should the need arise.
Spyderco’s Lil Temperance 3 is an exceptional pocket folder in every respect. Its build quality and design make this EDC folder an excellent defensive tool or utilitarian tool. Unfortunately, as of this writing, Spyderco has discontinued the knife, but you should be able to pick one up at any number of online retailers. It’s worth the effort if you’re looking for an EDC knife that will serve you wellwhetheryou’re a plumberor CEO.
Copyright 2023, Twobirds Flying Publications, All Rights