A history of spyderco.
Spyderco is a company that has become synonymous with quality knives that are both innovative and functional. Founded in 1978 by Sal Glesser, the company has a rich history that spans over four decades.
The story of Spyderco begins with Sal Glesser’s fascination with knives. As a child, he was always interested in the tools that his father used for work, and he would spend hours studying their design and function. As he grew older, his passion for knives only intensified, and he began collecting and studying knives from all over the world.
In 1976, Sal and his wife Gail decided to start their own business, which they called Spyderco. The name was inspired by a spider that Sal had observed in his garden, which had a unique ability to spin a web that was both strong and flexible. Sal saw this as a metaphor for the kind of knives he wanted to create – knives that were strong, yet flexible and versatile.
The first Spyderco knife was the C01 Worker, which was introduced in 1981. It was designed with the help of knife maker Bob Terzuola and featured a unique hole in the blade that allowed for easy one-handed opening. This hole, which is now a signature feature of Spyderco knives, was a game-changer in the knife industry and quickly became popular among knife enthusiasts.
Over the years, Spyderco continued to innovate and introduce new designs that pushed the boundaries of what was possible in knife design. One such design was the Endura, which was introduced in 1990. The Endura was one of the first knives to feature a lightweight, injection-molded handle, which made it both durable and comfortable to use.
Another notable design was the Spyderco Delica, which was introduced in 1990. The Delica was a lightweight, pocket-sized knife that was perfect for everyday carry. It featured a blade made from high-quality VG-10 steel, which was known for its durability and sharpness.
In recent years, Spyderco has continued to innovate and introduce new designs that have pushed the boundaries of what is possible in knife design. One such design is the Spyderco Paramilitary 2, which was introduced in 2010. The Paramilitary 2 features a full-flat-ground blade made from premium steel, as well as a comfortable, ergonomic handle.
Today, Spyderco is one of the most respected names in the knife industry, and its products are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts all over the world. The company’s commitment to innovation, quality, and design has made it a leader in the industry, and its legacy continues to grow with each new product it introduces.