Spyderco Urban K390 Review: The Gentleman’s Super Steel Slicer
After two months with the Spyderco Urban K390, I can say this small slip-joint is a masterclass in minimalist design paired with maximum performance. At around $100, you’re getting one of the most capable non-locking knives available, though the super steel requires some knowledge to maintain properly.
Technical Specifications
Core Specs: Overall Length: 6.25″ Blade Length: 2.61″ Blade Steel: K390 (a high-speed tool steel known for extreme edge retention) Handle Material: FRN (Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon) Weight: 2.0 oz Lock Type: Slip-joint Made in: Japan Price: Usually $90-110 [Check Current Price]
Real-World Testing Experience
First Impressions and Break-In
The Urban K390 is deceptively simple looking. The blue-gray FRN handle and industrial-looking blade don’t scream “super steel,” but the incredible sharpness out of the box hints at what’s to come. The slip-joint action was perfectly tensioned from day one – no break-in needed.
Cutting Performance
Food Prep: K390 really shines here: Apple slicing: Effortless, with zero wedging Tomatoes: Paper-thin slices even after weeks of use Meal prep: Perfect for lunch preparation Citrus: Clean cuts without reaction The thin blade stock and full flat grind make this one of the best slicing EDCs I’ve used. Office and Light Duty: Paper: Laser-like cuts Cardboard: Cuts far longer than you’d expect Packages: Perfect control for tape and plastic String/twine: Clean cuts without sawing
Edge Retention and Maintenance
This is where K390 shows its true colors: Edge retention: Outstanding – still shaving sharp after two months Wear resistance: Exceptional Sharpening: Requires diamond stones or CBN Patina: Develops quickly but stabilizes Rust resistance: Needs attention in humid conditions A note on maintenance: K390 isn’t stainless. While not as reactive as carbon steel, it needs regular cleaning and occasional oiling, especially if you live in a humid climate or use it for food prep.
Carry Experience
At 2.0 ounces, the Urban disappears in your pocket. The wire clip is excellent: Deep carry No hot spots Secure retention Easy retrieval The slip-joint mechanism is confidence-inspiring: Strong backspring Half-stop position Smooth operation Safe feeling in use
How It Compares
Spyderco Urban VG-10 ($80): More corrosion resistant Less edge retention Similar design Easier maintenance Benchmade Proper ($120): Traditional styling S30V steel Higher price Less cutting performance Spyderco UKPK ($90): Longer blade Lock-free design Less premium steel Larger size
Long-Term Durability
Two Months Later
Handle: FRN shows minimal wear Clip retains tension Screws stay tight Texture maintains grip Blade: K390 developing stable patina Edge still razor sharp No chips or rolls Some natural darkening Mechanism: Slip-joint remains strong Smooth operation No wear visible Consistent tension
What’s Good and What’s Not
The Good Stuff
Exceptional edge retention Excellent slicing geometry Lightweight carry Legal almost everywhere Premium steel Perfect EDC size Great ergonomics High-quality construction
The Not-So-Good Stuff
Requires maintenance Can rust if neglected Difficult to sharpen Plain appearance Premium price Limited availability Not for hard use
Buying Advice
Where to Buy
BladeHQ: [Check Price] Best selection Good stock levels Expert knowledge Fast shipping KnifeCenter: [Check Price] Competitive pricing Regular sales Detailed specs Reliable shipping
Essential Accessories
Mineral oil ($8) Diamond stones ($50+) Nano-cloth ($10) Strop ($20)
Final Verdict
The Spyderco Urban K390 is a masterpiece of practical minimalism. It combines incredible cutting performance with legal-friendly design.
Perfect For:
EDC in restrictive areas Office environments Those valuing edge retention Light EDC users Food prep enthusiasts Travel (where legal) Steel enthusiasts
Not Great For:
Those wanting low maintenance Hard use tasks Humid environments without care Users needing a lock Budget buyers Those wanting flash
Long-Term Outlook
With proper care, the Urban K390 should provide decades of service. The super steel blade will outlast most users’ needs, while the simple construction means fewer potential failure points. [Check Current Price] Note: This review is based on two months of daily carry and use. The knife was purchased at retail price and tested in various everyday cutting tasks, with particular attention to edge retention and maintenance needs.
Final Thoughts
The Urban K390 represents a perfect marriage of practical design and premium materials. While it requires more care than stainless alternatives, the cutting performance and edge retention are worth the extra attention. For those who appreciate super steel and don’t mind the maintenance, it’s hard to find a better non-locking EDC option.