Following the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the carry of any
type of knife aboard an airplane was strictly prohibited. In early 2013,
the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced a plan to
change U.S. security regulations and once again allow knives on
airplanes. Although the plan was later withdrawn, Spyderco had already
risen to the occasion by designing a highly functional non-locking
pocketknife that would have conformed with the TSA’s proposed
guidelines. That knife is the Roadie.
In essence, the Roadie is a highly evolved penknife that is more
practical and user-friendly than its historical predecessors. It’s most
distinguishing characteristic—the “Double Dent™”—is a pair of
symmetrical dimples in the blade that provide a solid purchase for a
fingernail-free two-handed opening. Far superior to a traditional nail
nick, they also do not collect dirt or debris.
Unlike traditional penknives, the Roadie also features a subtle
index-finger choil that increases control of the knife during use and
acts as a safeguard against unintentional closure. These enhanced
features elevate the Roadie far beyond the conventional penknife and set
a new standard in socially friendly cutting tools. Although the knife
was never given the opportunity to respond to its original “calling,”
the result of the project was far too good to pass up.
The business end of the Roadie is a sheepfoot-style blade ground from
Böhler-Uddeholm N690Co steel, a high-performance stainless steel
alloyed with cobalt, molybdenum, and vanadium. Its wide blade profile
and full-flat grind create incredible edge geometry for a keen,
scalpel-sharp edge. The broad blade also provides real estate for the
distinctive “Double Dent” feature that allows the blade to be easily
opened with a pinch grip of the thumb and index finger. Although not
intended as an opening feature, a Trademark Round Hole™ in the blade
proudly identifies the Roadie as a Spyderco product.
At the base of the blade near its juncture with the handle, there is a
subtle forefinger choil (finger groove). Placing your index finger on
the choil provides excellent control of the edge and creates a natural
“stop” to help prevent the knife from closing unintentionally. Both the
choil and the opposing thumb ramp on the spine of the blade feature
jimping (textured grooves) to promote a positive, non-slip grip.
Unlike a traditional slipjoint, the Roadie’s blade is held open by an
improved notched-joint mechanism. Its spring also forms the handle’s
full-length back strap, giving it structural strength and providing a
foundation for the durable fiberglass-reinforced-nylon (FRN) scales. The
injection-molded scales are contoured for comfort and feature a
recessed Spyderco “bug” logo on both sides. They are also available in a
wide variety of colors to suit every taste.
The Roadie represents a quantum leap in the evolution of modern
pocketknife design and sets a new standard of excellence for the breed.
We are confident that yours will serve you well.
2 1/8" N690 stainless sheepfoot blade, 3" closed, green FRN handle, slip joint, no clip. Italy