I just got the Stag Kiwi 3 earlier this week and it will be going out on a passaround soon (the sign up is open over at the passing lane forum), and thought I would post a quick review/initial impressions.
Kiwi 3 compared to the original Kiwi.
The original Kiwi was a lock back made in Japan, while the Kiwi 3 is one of Spyderco's Slipit series of non-locking slip joint folders designed to comply with tightening restrictions around the world on locking blade folders and is made in China.
The Kiwi 3 features 8Cr13MoV blade steel which is a Chinese steel similar in make up to AUS8. While not a "super steel", I have always found 8Cr13MoV to hold a good edge and to be easy to sharpen. Out of the box the Kiwi 3 was shaving sharp but not sharp enough to slice TP.
The 2 7/16" blade is a hollow sabre ground Wharncliffe pattern and the handles scales are inlays stag over a stainless steel frame.
While the blade has a trademark Spyderco opening hole, the stiffness of the back spring combined with the small hole and handle size, make the Kiwi 3 more of a two hand opening knife than a one hand opener - at least that is the case for me!
Kiwi 3 compared to an older Browning Stag Trapper (made in Japan).
While the blade has a trademark Spyderco opening hole, the stiffness of the back spring combined with the small hole and handle size, make the Kiwi 3 more of a two hand opening knife than a one hand opener - at least that is the case for me!
Kiwi 3 compared to an older Browning Stag Trapper (made in Japan).
In the hand the Kiwi 3 feels very safe and secure and I am sure that it is up to any tasks that are appropriate for a slip joint folder of this size. Keeping your finger in the choil area on the blade helps prevent the blade from cutting you if the blade unintentionally starts to close when you are using it - a huge improvement Spyderco Slipits have over most other slip joints!
Fit of stag scales on the Browning Trapper compared to Kiwi 3.
The Stag scales are finished fairly smooth and fit nicely in the hand adding to the ergonomics and secure feel of the Kiwi. The fit and finish of the stag scales is very good, but could have been a bit better on the back of the left scale. The Kiwi's opposing stag scales matched each other very nicely in color, texture and for even thickness (note how the scales on my old Browning Trapper do not match each other as well particularly in thickness).
The fit and finish of the rest of the Kiwi 3 was excellent.
With a MSRP of $54.95 (internet prices are considerably less), I would say that the Kiwi 3 is an outstanding value for a Stag handled knife.
Author: frankk