Native Chief Lightweight – Spyderco Design Production Sample 2023

The Spyderco Native Chief Lightweight was another large folder that was shown at the 2023 Amsterdam Meet. The first thing I noticed when handling it, was the weight. Or rather the lack of weight. There are no liners in the handle of the Native Chief Lightweight. Combined with such a large blade, the lightweight effect in the hand is striking. Apparently, a significant amount of engineering went into the lock to keep it strong enough for a knife this size and this light. The screw inserts for the clip mounting options are molded into the FRN. When you turn the knife over to look inside the handle, you’ll notice a web-like pattern. This also adds a lot of structural strength to the knife.

As a left-handed knife user, I thoroughly appreciate the 4-way clip mounting options. And the mid-back lock makes the Native Chief fully ambidextrous.

Specifications

Closed: 5.08 inch / 129 mm
Overall: 9.08 inch / 231 mm
Blade: 4.08 inch / 104 mm
Edge: 3.58 inch / 91 mm
Thickness: 0.145 inch / 3.7 mm
Steel: CTS BD1N
Weight:  2.96 oz / 84 g
Grind: Full-flat
Lock: Back Lock
Handle: FRN
Carry: Ambi
Clip: 4-position
Origin: USA

I have no information on pricing or release dates.