Spyderco Para 3 handle scales
Spyderco Para 3 handle scales
The Spyderco Para 3 (model C223, often called PM3 or Para 3) is the compact sibling of the legendary Paramilitary 2, distilling its proven features into a more EDC-friendly package
The lineage traces to the Military (1996) by founder Sal Glesser, followed by the ParaMilitary (2004) with Compression Lock and CPM S30V, then the refined Para Military 2 (2010)
Fans long requested a smaller version of the PM2 for better pocket carry without sacrificing performance. Rumors swirled for years—initially teased as “Paramilitary 3” or even “Minuteman”—but Spyderco settled on Para 3 to honor roots while emphasizing its ~3-inch blade
Officially announced in November 2016 via Spyderco's social media and forums, it shipped in December 2016. Key specs: 2.95" CPM S30V full-flat blade, black G-10 scales, skeletonized liners, bushing pivot, enhanced jimping, four-position clip, and the signature Compression Lock
Priced around $199.95 MSRP, it exploded in popularity as an ideal all-purpose folder—rugged, ergonomic, and USA-made. Later variants (Lightweight FRN, sprint runs with elite steels) cemented its status as a top Spyderco EDC benchmark