The Spyderco Manix 2 Lightweight (S110V) Pocketknife: The Full Nick Shabazz Review 

I'm gonna be honest here: This review is not my finest hour. I spent way too much time on aesthetics, and not enough time on everything else. And frankly, the design has grown on me over the years. This is a wonderful knife, and a gem, so the review is staying up, but know that I disagree with myself.

i am sorry but i love the look of this knife and I am totally in love with the ergonomics. BEST KNIFE I EVER OWNED

Says Manix is "fugly" *Buys the RAZEL*

Nick, I love your knife reviews. But on this one I have to disagree with you. The Manix 2 Lightweight is maybe my favorite EDC pocketknife. I love everything about this knife. The blade shape, the ball bearing lock, the colors , the ergonomics, the weight and the clip add up to it being number one in my book. I've never experienced the sharp Spydehole like you mentioned and I have ten versions of this one. Even in BD1 and S30V, it rocks. Anyway, just my two cents worth. Thanks again for your reviews!

I have a fairly large collection of pocket knives. Everything from a $40 kershaw to a $1000 rockstead. The manix 2 light weight is the knife I carry 9 out of 10 days a week. For me it it the perfect size blade, and so light you never feel it in your pocket.

the spider holes on this, the delica, and the para military have sharp edges around the hole make the the best ferroecium rod scraper for starting fires. the hole around the fire rods concentrate the sparks to a smaller, more direct target

Just got mine today and I can't believe how nice it cuts and carries. Love it already. Thanks for your puzzling opinion, Nick.

I appreciate your honesty in making the distinction between cutting tool and pocket jewelry. The Manix 2XL is my favourite knife that I own at this current moment in time. It's an ugly, humongous pocket filling beast that is jimped and prowed to the point that my right front pocket in nearly every pair of pants I own is utterly destroyed. But I use it CONSTANTLY, and man, I can rarely bring myself to bring another knife to work. It just works so well.

So glad you updated your opinion on this folder. Your review really echoes how I feel about knives in general, not so much a knife I’d carry to pull out and awe some knife friends, in fact some did not think it was the money I paid for it. I also have a Manix 2, but prefer the L.W. version. This is a knife I just might use to cut something!

Nicki I like your videos for several reasons none of which are functional but at filling time through my day it's a charm your functionally equivalent to a glass of water when my throat is dry I'll continuing watching you despite the extra time spent understanding if it's time well spent or I'm just skipping through Utube content! Have a wonderful day!

I've always thought of a knife as a tool primarily; form follows function. Good review, however I've never thought of a knife as an accoutrement.

I edc a manix xl all black, sometimes a regular s110v. I absolutely love them.

I absolutely love mine with the G10 scales.

I have the G10 version with S30V steel. I love this thing! Ive had it for about 4 months now. He is definitely right about the ergonomics. It may be wide from the side but from the back, it is perfect.

I carry my Manix 2 LW in S90V every day! Probably because it's the only super steel knife I own but I love it!

I actually forget my Manix 2 XL is in my pocket.

Im so excited to get my hands on this beauty

really appreciate your honest, forthright reviews. I have one of these and rather like it...but it is large!

I really appreciate your honesty. I daily carry a ZT0300, so out of the gate, our personal preferences in size differ, and I don't find Spyderco's ugly, but even though you include that opinion to your videos, you're still fair in your review. I'm caught between adding the PM2 and the Manix 2 to my rotation. I (think?) I like the lock design of the PM2 more, but my favorite spyderco is my Native III, and the Manix 2 reminds me of a giant Native. Ultimately, they'll probably both make it into the rotation some day, but I can't decide which one to add first!

If the ball bearing lock pad/knob had more give then maybe I’d like it more, but I feel like it takes a lot to engage/disengage the ball bearing lock and potentially can tear up your thumb. Axis lock is better imo or compression lock.

Can someone tell me why Benchmade charges $270 for the 941-1 (s90v), and Matrix 2w/ s110v sells for $130? What am I missing here lol

My first and favourite Spyderco knife.

I love my Manix 2 lw. S110v is great. It does work like crazy.

Fantastic review, Nick

Amazing review!

Great review. I agree with all your points. Mine is reduced to occasional pocket carry when I wear cargo pants and have a spare pocket. It's still heavy enough to flop against your leg if the pocket is too low, however. One other point I have against the knife: the blade is too polished. Almost mirror polished. I am compelled to clean it after every use, defeating its appeal as a working folder. I wish it was stonewashed.

Glad to read your comment about how your opinion has changed. I recently got one in bd1n and was pleasantly surprised by how much I like the translucent frcp. I have very large hands but really appreciate a lighter weight knife so the size is a win. At times I am jealous of your lbhs (I use that term with all due affection). You're still a gem good sir.

I love how colorful you are. but I do wish you would have included links for the other knives you referenced, as I didn't recognize any of the names. delica I know but not the others

The Manix 2 XL has been on my need to buy list for a long time. I really need to make that happen.

i'd love a nice piece of man jewelry for when i play dress-up, but my manix 2 is perfect as an edc. i just got the xhp version and i'm loving it so far. it reminds me of a larger dragonfly, which i also love for when i need a knife that won't scare the coworkers or where larger knives aren't allowed. i typically carry my manix 2 and my df2 salt se together for a great, functional pair. they both have the very best ergonomics for what they are.

You know Nick, when I bought my Delica I thought it was fugly also. But it was supposed to be a great knife, so I chanced it. I thought those scales looked so cheap. Until I got my hands on it. Spydercos FRN just works. And so now I look at my Delica and think it looks great. And because of that, I'm really looking the way the Manix Lightweight looks. Sooner or later I'll get one.

I carry a manix 2 in s90v. Even though it's big folded, it carries out of the way in your pocket. You said you wouldn't forget about it in your pocket, but I never notice it. I'm a big fan

I can’t wait for mine to arrive tomorrow

I love this knife.the first of my favorite 2.

You have come a long way in your review process since this video. I couldn't imagine the Nick of today not mention that you can't disassemble this knife.

You’re so right Nick. I hate Omega spring because they break on my constantly because I fidget with my knives a lot.

Hey it’s Justin just letting you know I just ordered my Spyderco manix to an FRNN 110 V can’t wait to get it it’s the light weight in blue I like it a lot

Hey Nick I love the Manix but I am surprised you don’t have a disassembly video on it ! Do you have any plans to put one up ?

I have a variation on the Manix 2 and I love!! it; carry it all the time. Mine's about 5oz. and I don't find that heavy. And the S90V edge (CPM154 spine) is a good user steel.

Light, ergonomic and great blade steel. Glad the fugliness didn't bias the gist of your review 😊👍

Do you think of the paramilitary 2 in the same way or is it good man jewelry too?

Great Review!!!

Have the Manix 2 Blue G10 S110V and the Manix 2XL in S30V Black G10. I"ve become a spyderco fan as to me the are the Glock of the knife world. Not overly priced, not really collectible to me, but just nice, good quality, clean design and extremely useful. If I lose or damage one I can replace it fairly easily or see about getting it repaired if cost effective, no big deal. I also have the Paramilitary 2 and 3 and a Native 5. Most the time when I'm out of the house I've got a Spyderco and a glock my perfect combination. Yes it's big in the pocket, but the ergo's and functionality are worth it to me. If I'm in dress clothes I do have other slimier nicer knives I may carry. Just me.

total worth the size to me. if you have carried the xl this guy is better than that. I have the bd1 blue version and it is also a gem in my eyes. brutal honesty is the best. thanks for the work on your vids.

I did decide to get one. My first spyderco. I still dislike the hole but my translucent blue one is pretty and light. It has CTS-BD1 steel so I will be getting another in S110v. Why? for those times when I really want and need a beater knife I dont worry about beating up.scratching up or worse. Even in shorts it is light to carry. I really like the wire clip too. and did I mention it is feather light? It's a beautiful thing for a beater.

I'm hoping to pick this up with the flatter blurple handles as my first spyderco, its one of the only spyders under $300 i can bear to look at for more than the time I'm using it.

What are your thoughts on the g10 version as far as aesthetics go?

This is, hands down, my favorite Spydie. Once I picked it up, all my other knives became drawer warmers. Love this thing for EDC. Cheers!

Wow it looks like they differentially hardened the blade. It has what looks like a hamon.

Can we get a disassembly video on this?

I agree with ya on the functionality and super ergonomics - but I think it’s pretty good looking! Not in the polished man jewel type of way, but more as a simple tshirt and jeans carrier - especially in the translucent blue scales found on the S30v & BD1 versions

I think it’s a much better looking knife then those other two Friggin love mine. Carry it every day 🔪🇨🇦

How hard would it be to sharpen s110v on a spyderco sharpmaker?

Hi Nick I recently ordered manix 2 lightweight dark blue s110v I'm guessing the one u are reviewing now . I have the tenacious and pm2 camo also I have benchmade grip tanto many kershaw and crkt and gerber etc about 50 pocket knives total . I had the manix 2 lw black cts bd1 steel and sent it back and for 50 more dollars I got the s110v steel which comes in day to day . I never had a s110v steel only s30v or 154cm . I am very excited to receive it . I truthfully love the manix 2 it fits your hand like a glove it's extremely light it fires open faster than a switchbalde. It does everything imaginable. Also has the s110 good for self defense if needed. I'm huge with how handle fits hand and weight of knive and if it can protect if needed last resort. I just wanted to leave u this after watching your review of the knife I seem to like it on another level then u . Amy comments u have please drop them to me I love your page and reviews and always watch them before I make any moves what so ever thank u so much for all of your reviews . Salvatore Barbella

I’m thinking you haven’t done a lot of cardboard box cutting with this. The cheap feeling scales are one big hot spot when cutting for any longer than 5 minutes. The lock is great and arguably even better than the axis lock because it’s a better spring. But after cutting a number of boxes up, I had to switch out knives because it hurts the hand. You are correct, this thing is huge in the pocket and is constantly in the way when getting to other stuff in my pocket. I know it’s the “Light Weight” version but I would have preferred the PM2 style scales over these. They feel like cheap “toy-like” plastic.

Will the spyderco sharpener sharper steel this hard?

I have an S30V DLC Manix 2 and I think it looks pretty good blacked out...

the question now is... can i drill out the rivets in my old translucent blue manix 2 lightweight and use the screws from the new models and bladeswap?

I'm thinking about getting a manix 2 but I carry in the back pocket remove the pocket clip can this be manipulated without the pocket clip I have a ganzo 7531 but I can't manipulate the blade without the pocket clip

Nick, I love your reviews. I bought a Manix 2 lightweight, and that lock bugged the crap out of me because it was so stiff; it made opening and closing the knife entirely too difficult. I'd love to hear your thoughts on the brand new Manix 2 Lock Back.

im with you on this one except the hard use. I would choose this but not in S110V. maybe in SPY27 if it needs to be stainless or in CPM-M4 if it doesn't

Watched this the other night and, based off of this review, I purchased this knife the next day from Blade HQ. this is one of the best worst reviews I’ve ever seen. He keeps talking about how amazing this knife is and how much he hates is. It’s like a walking/talking oxymoron.

Just admit it, you really like it. Hey I got a question, what is the deal with the zip tie on the top of the blade on Spyderco knives. I not sure but is because it hurts there thumbs otherwise.

Just curious, did you not have the scale back then? I watched the G10 Manix review as well and you didn't mention how much lighter the LW actually is.

I have both t he Manix 2 G 10 S30V, and and the lightweight S110V. Can't decide witch one to carry. I do prefer the lightweight. Just sayin

The manix 2 is one of my favorite knives , It feels so good in hand and for cutting tasks it cannot be beat .However I only carry it when I no ill be cutting a lot with it .I must admit its purely vanity its just not cool looking

I have a Manix 2 lightweight in CTS BD1. No problem with cutting, ergo, the lock, clip, etc., etc.. One HUGE issue, it's riveted close. I can't use it on any roofing materials, anything with tacky glue, food (especially meat) or anything else that you definitely do not want jamming or rotting in the swivel or lock area. Great functioning knife if you stick with paper, cardboard and other dry materials that won't gum up the knife or turn it into a decomposition problem. I can buy hardware, drill it apart and replace the rivets with real h/w but I shouldn't have to do that. It's spent most of it's life in the drawer.

Is this knife hard to clean?

I absolutely love the Manix 2! I have two, the lightweight featured and the FFG S30V in G10. I am a bigger guy, so proportionally my pockets are bigger as well. The lightweight carries great on the hip of my gym shorts, in the elastic band and the G10 usually goes in my back pocket, making way for my Leatherman Wingman in my front. So I have never really had an issue of it restricting access to other items in my pockets. Thanks for the honest review. I will be sure to catch more!

This knife is great looking compared to the others you brought out. I was shaking my head. To each his own I guess.

Love the reviews. This one proves beauty is in the eye of the beholder. To me the Manix 2 is a good looking knife while the Benchmade 940 oh so popular with the masses look wimpy. Would like to see something on tools and sharpening devices for knives. Thanks!!!

Nick, what kind of kitchen knives do you like/use? You should make a video about kitchen cutlery.

Simply the best.

I loou vvve e my manix number 2 in z light weight configuration. Mine is in z orange thingy with the s90v cutter thingy. It's so light in z weight I forget I ownz it sometimes and zen z other times I cut, and it cuts and it cutz!!!!!

I love this knife.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder my friend! I love the looks of my Manix 2. However i do agree it is too large for daily carry, so I carry my Native frn.

Great knife the ball barring works nice but its not Benchmade mini barrage Axis lock fidget friendly but with time it will be close I think! Very sharp right out of the box...dont practice the Spydie flick without extra Band-Aids...lol a little large for my liking (cara cara 2 size) but still very doable yes its light weight! I like it very much but then again I like my Delica 4 very much ! and my Spyderco Astute is very light weight and yes I love both my Meadowlark 2 & Cara Cara 2 !, might have to look into a Spyderco para 3 lightweight once I get a little OT !!!!!

Funny how aesthetic taste differs so much from person to person... personally I LOVE the look of the Manix, and I actually find it one of my more comfortable knives to carry daily. Well as the saying goes, to each their own.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder :)

The size is perfect for me.

lol The manix 2 is my favorite Spyderco. I hope they do more with the ball bearing lock.

I like it and I don't think it's ugly. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder 😀😁

Here is a word for you Nick, "Teleology, (the explanation of phenomena in terms of the purpose they serve rather than of the cause by which they arise.) So in a word teleologically speaking this is the best knife I have ever owned. As far as aesthetics, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. I like it, it's not that bad and for the money (I have the regular one not the light weight) it is worth every penny, for every task or any other emergency use that may arise.

"It feel out of the ugly tree" beauty is in the eye of the beholder I think it looks nice

that razel makes the manix look like a zonda r

I don't think this knife is ugly at all. I do wish Spyderco had used screws so you could break it down to clean and lube.

It really is incredible in hand. And pictures honestly dont prepare you for this knife. Its hard to describe. I was kinda iffy when i ordered it, i absolutely hated everything about when i first opened it. It sat for 2 days, still in its packaging? So finally i held it, and with my smaller hands, and despite it looking less than impressive, t

Love Manix 2. I have 4

Im a boy scout and I go camping about once a month, what is a good lightweight pocket knife that isn’t much longer than 3 inches and is not very expensive?

Is s110v chippy?

Such a great review Nick!

I bought one a month ago and it immediately replaced my Benchmade 710 and 941 for EDC and I've been using those two knives for fifteen years. Ugly grips but light and disappears in the pocket even considering the size. The action is smooth and the S110V blade steel is great. I agree with you about the functionality. Can be confusing when shopping for one due to the extensive choice of blade steels and grip materials.

I'm really having a hard time deciding between this and the Para3 lightweight. I'm a lefty and I'm tired of most liner locks.

It's huge, but there's even XL version.

My kind of knife. I prefer the XL though.

One of Nick’s better reviews. I liked how he got psychologically involved in psychology. The psychology of knives.

Why don't you like BD-1? I carry the Manix 2 lightweight in BD-1 and it's phenomenal.

Thanks!

are you ever gonna do a regular manix 2 review?

I've always liked the way the manix looked lol