
Spyderco Tuff Review: The Overbuilt Tank That Lives Up to Its Name
After two months with the Spyderco Tuff, I can say this discontinued beast lives up to its reputation. At around $400-500 on the secondary market (originally $300), it’s an interesting piece of Spyderco history that brings both tactical and practical features to the table. It’s overbuilt without being ridiculous, and surprisingly usable despite its tank-like construction.
Technical Specifications
Core Specs: Overall Length: 8.5″ Blade Length: 3.5″ Blade Steel: CPM S30V (a premium American stainless steel known for edge retention) Handle Material: G-10 scales over titanium liners Weight: 6.3 oz Lock Type: Compression Lock (Spyderco’s strong and reliable locking mechanism) Made in: Taiwan Secondary Market Price: $400-500 [Check Secondary Market]
Spyderco Tuff Review: Real-World Testing Experience
First Impressions and Break-In
The Tuff is aptly named – it feels like a folding tank in hand. The thick blade stock (0.177″) immediately catches your eye, but the full flat grind helps maintain cutting ability. The action was surprisingly smooth for such a beefy knife, though the detent was stiff initially. After about two weeks of use, it settled into a smooth, hydraulic feel.
Heavy Duty Tasks
This is where the Tuff shines: Hard Use Testing: Batoning through 2x4s: Handled it without flinching Prying (light): While not recommended, it survived without damage Heavy cardboard: Cut through like it wasn’t there Thick rope: Sliced clean with zero effort The thick blade stock and robust construction make this knife feel indestructible. The compression lock showed zero signs of strain even under serious lateral pressure.
Everyday Cutting Tasks
Despite its overbuilt nature, the Tuff performs surprisingly well in regular use: Food Prep: Apples: Clean cuts despite thick stock Vegetables: Better than expected thanks to flat grind Meat: Excellent for portions and trimming General prep: Workable but not optimal Regular EDC Tasks: Package opening: Excellent control despite size Paper: Clean cuts when sharp Cardboard: Absolutely demolishes boxes Zip ties: Overkill but effective
Edge Retention and Maintenance
The S30V blade holds an edge well, though the thick stock means you’ll want to maintain a more obtuse edge angle for stability. After two months: Edge retention: Excellent Ease of sharpening: Moderate Chip resistance: Outstanding General maintenance: Minimal needed The full flat grind helps offset the thick stock, but this isn’t a laser beam slicer. It’s a compromise that favors strength while maintaining reasonable cutting ability.
Carry Experience
At 6.3 ounces, you know it’s there. The pocket clip is well-designed but this isn’t a knife that disappears in your pocket. The G10 texture provides excellent grip without being too aggressive on clothing. The compression lock is rock solid and actually easier to manipulate than on many smaller Spydercos. The thumb hole opening is smooth despite the blade weight, and the detent provides reliable deployment.
Spyderco Tuff Review: How It Compares
Spyderco Military ($200): Lighter weight Better slicer Less overbuilt More practical EDC Hinderer XM-18 ($425): Similar overbuilt philosophy Different lock mechanism More customizable Comparable build quality Zero Tolerance 0562 ($260): Similar target market Less expensive Thinner blade stock More readily available
Spyderco Tuff Review: Long-Term Durability
Two Months Later
Handle: G10 shows minimal wear Titanium liners unmarked All screws remained tight No scale flex or movement Blade: S30V performing as expected No chips despite hard use Pivot smooth and stable Zero blade play Lock: Compression lock rock solid No stick or wear Consistent engagement Zero failures
Spyderco Tuff Review: What’s Good and What’s Not
The Good Stuff
Built like a tank
- Excellent build quality,
- Surprisingly usable
- Rock-solid lock
- Good edge retention
- Smooth action Reliable
- Performance
- Collector’s value
The Not-So-Good Stuff
- Heavy for EDC
- Expensive on secondary market
- Thick behind the edge
- Not readily available
- Overkill for many tasks
- Takes up pocket space
- Not the best pure slicer
Buying Advice
Where to Find One
Being discontinued, your best bets are: Knife Forums Reddit Knife_Swap eBay (watch for fakes) Specialty Dealers
What to Look For
Original box and papers Lock function Blade centering Signs of abuse Authenticity markers
Final Verdict
The Spyderco Tuff is a fascinating piece of knife history that backs up its tough reputation with genuine performance. While overbuilt, it remains surprisingly practical.
Perfect For:
Collectors Hard use enthusiasts Those wanting a tank-like folder Spyderco fans Those appreciating overbuilt designs Users needing absolute reliability
Not Great For:
Light EDC needs Budget-conscious buyers Those wanting a slim carry Pure slicing tasks Minimalists Those seeking subtlety
Long-Term Outlook
The Tuff seems likely to maintain or increase its value due to its discontinued status and unique place in Spyderco’s lineup. As a user piece, it should last several lifetimes with proper care. Note: This review is based on two months of regular use. The knife was purchased on the secondary market and tested in various heavy-duty scenarios as well as everyday tasks.