Is This Knife Still Class Leading? (Cru Wear Paramilitary 2) 

I love that you are inspired to make knife videos and help me laugh at myself! I carried a blurple PM2 in S110V until I moved to Las Vegas where 3 inch plus blades are illegal. I got a Para 3 in Maxamet because I could carry it. They both worked great but I searched for something less wide in my pocket. Couldn’t get any TRM knives. I got a Hogue/Ritter mini RSK MK1 (and a few other knives). The Hogue/Ritter fits great for me most of the time unless I need something bigger. I like the full size version too.

I’ve been using a cruwear pm2 for months now with absolutely no corrosion that I can speak of. I think it’s just barely stainless enough that aside from intentionally trying to stain it, it’s pretty good to go.

I love mine, I've got 6 PM2'S with different steels on each one and I really like the cru wear model

My very first premium knife was a PM2, blacked-out w/ S30V. I recently picked up the Crucarta PM2 and damn…it’s given me a whole new respect for the PM2, overall. I had been searching for that next tier knife to blow my cash on. Chaves was in there…WE, CRK and some others. But, honestly, I’d be perfectly content owning nothing but Spyderco knives. Especially the PM2. It only took me 5-6 years and a couple grand to come full circle and end up with this revelation. And, it feels good, man.

I totally agree with everything you said about the PM2 and the Para3. I had six of them and let them go (that micarta/cru-wear sure is a beauty, though!). I let them go because I got a Para3 LW and it's excellent. Amazing how the subtlest of changes can change things. That Stretch2 is fantastic, btw. I'm waiting for it in Spy27, so this was a very interesting video for me. Thanks!

I like the cruwear pm2 and those scales take dye really well. I did mine in a dark blue and came out nice, also it hides dirt better.

Love how you went through the trouble to do the green screen stuff. And not bother hiding or putting it away. Legend!

Finally! Someone showing some love for the K390 Stretch 2. My favorite Sypderco. The rear point on the PM2 falls in the middle of my pinky finger. Not comfortable.

Yes Pete is back in full force! A classic Spyderco with a new outfit on (I got this PM 2 not too long ago). Then two cut tests! Then a video this morning. What a day! I also picked up a TRM Atom today!

I can say my crucarta had the sharpest factory edge ive seen in a while, someone makes a little piece you glue on to the lockbar making it the same height as the scales. I can't remember who sold it but I bet that would really improve the ease of use.

Oh and by the way the stretch is the ultimate daily knife and that’s coming from a master Gardner who cuts all day err day 😅

What a comprehensive test Pete! Through trial an error I came to a similar conclusion. In my case the Kapara/Stretch 2 edge out the PM in the aspects I care about.

Just ordered me one of those PM2 CruCartas, should arrive in the mail tomorrow, super stoked.

I opine that this particular version of the PM2 is one of the functionally best folding knives ever created. Doesn't hurt that it's a real looker neither. If I had to sell most of my folding knives I'd just keep this, my ZTs and my Sebenza.

Love my PM2 cru-carta. Probably the one and only Spyderco knife I’ll ever own.

This is my thought on the compression lock, its too "fumbly" when youre using your knife in a quick manner. Same thing with the "strong lock" from the Hawkes. I was in a production setting so intried many different knives, having to quickly pull my knife, make a cut, close it, and re pocket it. The compression was too "fumbly." Its a great lock for any other reason, tho. The best ive found was a simple thumbstud and a swift axis lock.

That's because it's FEPA-F1000 which is actually over 4,000 grit. Also those are not Venev stones. Those are TSProf plated diamonds that until recently were $50 for the set of 5. Venev Orions run over $400 for the set.

good call on the micarta over the smooth G1O.. i got the KC Yojimbo in the smooth stuff and man is that sucker slick, like toss-across-the room slippery

Per the guy who invented the yojimbo who is head of like production at Spyderco, SPY 27 is literally the powdered metallurgy recipe for VG 10. It's a new steel but not new.

Here for the adventure music choices! I would put these on loop

I've always said the Para 3 was a solution looking for a problem.

Well. My first pm2 had qc problems. I let it go. I'd consider a new military, but I'd have to examine it real close before buying.

Stretch K390 for the win, even if they put K390 into the PM2

Ah the pm2. My favorite overall folder. I have many others but the one in my pocket every single day at work is my pm2. Had one years ago, it got stolen, and I was so bummed out. 6 months later I was working a safe job at a pawnshop and beheld a nice black and camo pm2 in the case. I couldn't leave without it. So after a bit of haggling I got it for $60. Been with me daily ever since. I pair it with a wave, and small Wenger. Perfect combo for me. In the work van is a mora robust like I stash in every vehicle I own.

in areas that have certain knife laws the Para3 is the option for people who want to stay legal.

Pretty sure the Crucarta PM2 was my first Spyderco. Generally not a fan of the Spyderco look, but from a functional standpoint it just works. Also, I'm a Cruwear fanboi. Viva La Cruwear!

I just ordered my first spyderco PM2 in M4 steel. I had the para3 but the handle was too small for my hands. Too cramped unless I choked up. I hope the PM2 is as good as everyone says. I need a good knife without bearings.

XENOBLADEEEEEEEE.... music makes a lot of sense, actually. 🤔

I feel like with that greenscreen , you could have had some epic scenery as your background during your sisal rope sessions, especially with that audio you use.

Wow a double sharpening session woooof

Came for the cruwear test, stayed for the gremlin grip.

Great test!

KME should send Pete some new stones for all the advertising he has given them. Now TS Prof getting some of the free adverts.

You have quality hair, sir.

Please put a rubber mat under the cutting board. 🤣

I lost your recent Case Knives collector's video! What was the name?

21:20 Oh, that oh-so-sensual gaze...not gay again... Please, don't kill the Algorithm Man. He has the potential for a compilation in a few months.

The spy27 is a dirty little knife, taking 2 stones at a time lol.

"Bloody CruWear" 😅

How do I subscribe to the Algorithm Ben channel???

Spyderco themselves say that spy 27 pretty much powder vg10

I like the way the Micarta gets some character with use. That’s just an insanely cool and good-looking knife to me.

Knives are like women are amazing at first and then they get kind of old and you think I need a new one even though you already have a perfectly good one. Before you knew it you end up with 37 ex-wives and no money left by anyting but a ganzo

I honestly think algorithm man has a real future. Knife world or not. That guy….that guy gets it.

The Pm2 undoubtedly is in the all time top 5 non custom blades ever made.

The Venev stones use a different grit rating system. FEPA or GOST. FEPA 1200 is roughly JIS 4000. Glad you're having fun again.

I still like my old RAT1. Mostly because the AUS8 triggers the PM2 owners.

Spyderco is soon to be releasing the stretch 2 xl in both k390 and CTS-PD#1(micromelt cruwear). Anyone planning to get either?

Man I wish they gave the Manix as much love as the PM2. I'd love a K390 or Maxamet Manix 2. Yeah, I know there's a Maxamet lightweight Manix 2, but I'd love to see it in the regular version, just like they do with the PM2. PS: My PM2 hasn't seen any use since I got a K390 Stretch, it's a better knife in every "user knife" way. If you like to use knives this is a knifeguy knife for sure.

Love you pete (plutonically) been watching for a long time off and on, love your unique style of channel. Ive handled a pm2 and know i love it, one of the top production knives out there though im a benchmade and spyderco simp. One will find its way into my pocket someday with a unique blade steel

Cru wear vs magnacut ?

The Para 3 lightweight is really the game changer. Comfortable handle, lightweight, wire clip and a nice small profile. I just got the crucarta PM2 and its a different beast. Beautiful handle, and capable size for more versatility.

Your basically a funko pop collector if you buy spyderco.

My crucarta was even better after a disassembly, cleaning and relube with Lucas gun oil (I know others use different stuff but this works great for me). It’s super glassy. The factory clip had to go too in favor of a Lynch clip

I have that Native 5 in Spy 27, and feel very secure handling it. As a clumsy person, I have learned that the forward choil is my friend. I have never had to sharpen it in the year or so I've had it. Over 70, so I may never need to.

I got my first spyderco pm2 2 days ago off a friend.. 140 Canadian dollars ( a little less than half new price) and wow… it’s my first real folder as I usually carry a fixed, and man is it on a whole new level compared to my usual Chinese bucks… great company

U need to get the Spyderco Manix2 with magnacut; go mine yesterday!!

fortuitous stuff here...I am currently also playing around with the pm2 in cruwear. i can say that for edc i like cruwear much more than m4 or k390. for what you also showed at the end..you can easily strop it back. I have been also thinking about the spy steel....but i think i'll hold off on it a bit good to see you again!

Sorry Algorithm Man. Already have a Tifa Lockhart body pillow.

What do you think of the Manix 2?

Jesus, you had me rolling. ...Taking a sharpening from both ends while her normal sharpener watches from the corner... My God... Lol

Glad we're not seeing the sharpening from behind the balls.

Although I have many knives, my PM2’s remain my favorites. They are sharp, poky, slicey, thin, amby, 4 way clip, compression lock, fine and plentiful jimping, great steels - does all goat folder

In use the para3 wayyyyy more and like it far more than the pm2. Pm2 has its uses but the para3 is so much better overall especially for edc. Especially in the pocket.

Hate the PM2 in generell! I mean its okay but there are so many other better ones like the Manix2 ( lightweight) , STRETCH 2 K390 , Shaman and many others. Can't wait how the Military 2 compression lock will be! Greetings from Austria! Not Australia, Austria!

Dude, your content is the best. Lol. This is why I support you on Patreon. I really want to buy you a beer. Or a kangaroo. I don't know, what do you buy an Aussie?

if only there were more knife reviews with anime/jrpg/weeb music in the background to set the mood

You give new meaning to the term "knife porn". :O

I've been asking the same question about SPY27. They came out with the Manix 2 LW, Para 3 LW and the Native 5 LW and that was it. Well, I saw a recent video of Metal Complex and apparently, Spyderco is releasing several new models using SPY27 including the Military 2. I have the basic black G10 with S30V blade which I am totally happy with so I don't think I'll be getting the new version though.

I carry a PM2 daily in either CruWear or M4. Fantastic blades. I find the stroppy stuff 4 micron from DBK is the goat when it comes to stropping these super steels.

I bought the PM2 cruwear when it came out as the be-all knife. I am glad I did, its been a beast.

The Caribbean is the better pm2.

After carrying a s45vn PM2 for a while I noticed it occasionally opens itself halfway in my pocket. Too nervous to use it anymore

I've always loved the native and manix 2, but the pm3 is great as well. I find the pm2 too big. The manix is big but it just feels so damn good in the hand that it makes up for it

Sold off my PM2 about 5years ago. Yes Spyderco got me one more time with their cru-micarta version. And again Pete comes in just in time to save me a lot of work...Bravo!

I want a manix in 15v 😭

I feel like Pete has hit the nail on the head as why my PM2’s are mostly shelf knives for me. On paper it’s more premium than my seki k390 spyderco’s (better fit and finish, more fun lock, more solid lockup.. ect..) but in hand and cutting It’s less comfortable and has a thicker blade than FRN handled spyderco offerings. The Stretch is simply better at cutting and more comfortable.

The PM2 was always such an overrated knife. The ergos are horrible! Sharp edges all over the hand scales, and the compression lock is horrible for cutting in most grips - the one you use in these cutting videos, as well as nearly any other grip - as long as you have to push against hard material. Ppl who fidget, instead of using their knives, made this knife and lock popular. The FRN models are a lot more comfortable, and are plenty reliable for EDC, as well as harder use. The thick stock of the PM sucks, too. Something the FRN models do better, also.

Hate the way everyone says that they love the way that the mcarta wears. I don’t agree it looks dirty after it gets all the crap of one’s hands after use looks extremely dirty. And not really possible to clean the handle. Just my opinion.

You should save the dual sharpening action for only-fans.

The micarta PM2 is the exact knife I carry every day, it is splendid to me.

I was very curious and happy when I saw you post this because I have been thoroughly impressed with Spyderco’s more recent cruwear and more specifically the “Crucarta” pm2 which has been my work carry for many months now. Over the last few years Cruwear has become my favorite all around steel, it’s got good edge holding while being very durable and not too difficult to maintain or sharpen. On top of that, it’s corrosion resistance is surprising considering the class of steel it’s in. I’m not always the most cautious when it comes to keeping blades clean and my crucarta still looks brand new when I properly wipe down the blade. Maybe it’s in part due to Spyderco’s heat treat and hardness which has been reported to run around 63-65RC I believe but it also just seems cruwear is not a stain prone as steels like M4 or K390 and is much more along the lines of 3V. On a side note Benchmade seems to be getting a fair amount of positive feedback on their cruwear as well although I can’t say I’ve put mine through the ringer like I have with my cruwear pm2.

the algorithm is down bad

No matter the steel the PM2/3 all have the same problem, weak tips. Just a problem larger, thinner blades are going to have. This is what makes your sheepsfoot and wharncliffe knives popular. They just have strength from tip to heel the you can leverage into a cut. Give me a PM2 tanto in LC200N and there you might have the last knife I will ever buy...

I’d like to know when you are going to hammer thru bricks like pm2 does. Might I suggest that brickie be your first test subject?

The Pseudo micarta is pretty poor quality in delivery state. The steel of the Cruwear PM2 feels great though.

What sharpener is that your using? I have the work sharp but it flexes so much due to the plastic construction.

Just bought a PM 2 in Cruwear, have one in S110v that is really nice, BUT...I found it too chippy. I have 2 fixed blades in Cruwear that I love, so this PM2 should be a good fit. Have used Magnacut 😍😍, hope they produce a PM 2 in that as well, and not just the Salt. Acts like a stainless Cruwear IMO...

The “Crewcarta” PM2 was definitely a good release, but the best one of 2022 is the 15v Manix 2 in my opinion.

Like a trip down memory lane, rope cutting test & blade steel comparison as a bonus ! Pete you've got to tone it down, our expectations will get too high !

I don’t understand why Spyderco always installs the clip on the PM2 so that it is tip down. Sheesh!

I get the thin edge, but micarta? You're becoming such a Jed/hipster!

Hey Pete, not sure of you'll see this or care but they do have portable battery operated fans. Look up Venty fan for the best on the market if you don't have electric outlets in your shead. Sadly that is also the most expensive option and shipping to you wouldn't be cheap so you can always get a desktop fan off amazon and use an external battery bank (like one to charge your phone) to keep the fan running for a long while. I'm just sure a slight breeze would be a godsend while sharpening knives in the Austrila heat

I have a TRM Neutron and I hate it, the handle is way too thin for me! I know so many people love it. It's just so thin and dainty. I should have known, since I think the Bugout is also a bit too thin. I'll stick with my Benchmade mini Freek carbon fiber, Griptillian, or the Doug Ritter Mini-RSK!!

fyi, your videos' sound volumes are extremely low

Your like me. That sharpener is dusty as all get up.. 😅

Can the micarta scales be replaced with aftermarket scales?

Para 3 is great for the sub 3” blade for sure. That’s a specific requirement for where I would carry it. So I would say it definitely has a place in the lineup. Great video!

I can't put my finger on why you're my fave knife channel on youtube, but here we are.

I have a pm2 in s110v and despite feeling like the pm3 is honestly easier for me to handle, I stick with the pm2. Honestly haven't used it enough to justify the exorbitant cost compared to my usuals