With an overwhelming number of tactical folding knives on the market today, finding something that stands out becomes increasingly difficult. Spyderco, famous for their thumb hole design feature, offers a few very interesting options. Both aesthetically as well as functionally. Designed by noted personal-defense trainer Michael Janich, the Spyderco Yojimbo2 features a unique Wharncliffe blade for this tactical folding knife. Manufactured from 2003-2006, the original Yojimbo introduced the world to Janich’s unorthodox approach to tactical knives. Revisiting this noteworthy design is an updated evolution, the Spyderco Yojimbo2.

Some knives are carried for their utility and some for self defense. Individuals that are serious about self defense will carry a dedicated fighting knife in their EDC. And you’ll never see them cutting open a box or prying something with that knife. A dedicated fighting knife should be kept in a pristine, sharpened condition as if your life depends on it. The Spyderco Yojimbo2 is one such knife.

In the Japanese language the word “Yojimbo” means Bodyguard. And Michael Janich is a leader in self defense and defensive fighting. Utilizing his knowledge of knife fighting, Janich chose the straight edged Wharncliffe blade design. This perfectly straight edge exerts full cutting force all the way to the point unlike blades with a pronounced “belly”.  Also noteworthy is the use of premium grade CPM-S30V blade steel. Additionally, the 3 1/8″ blade features a high hollow grind for excellent blade geometry and corrosion resistance. Rounding out this robust blade is a thick .156″ (4mm) spine and contoured thumb ramp. Allowing the user a thumb-forward grip creating a knife that feels like a natural extension of the hand.

Stainless steel liners recessed into the lightly textured G-10 scales provide a very lightweight and low profile handle. Additionally, flush mounted handle hardware contributes to the Spyderco Yojimbo2 maintaining a clean, snag free profile. Further enhancing control and edge orientation is an ergonomic taper and generous palm swell. An integrated guard built into the front of the handle provides adequate protection while thrusting the knife forward. Locking the blade of the Yojimbo2 is Spyderco’s proprietary Compression Lock Mechanism. Located on the back of the handle, the split-leaf spring allows one handed closing without ever placing your nose pickers in the path of the blade. Finally, a four position steel pocket clip supports both tip-up and tip-down carry options for either right or wrong handers.

Spyderco Yojimbo2 Specs courtesy of spyderco.com

Final thoughts: The Spyderco Yojimbo2 is more than just an eye catching folding knife. Although it’s appearance is what originally caught my attention at Shot Show. The straight edge of the Wharncliffe blade does in fact serve a serious defensive purpose. If you carry a knife to use as a box cutter, I don’t recommend the Yojimbo2. But if self defense or personal security are paramount concerns, the Spyderco Yojimbo2 is a great option to consider. Compact and lightweight coupled with amazing cutting force has more than earned the bodyguard moniker “Yojimbo”. And as always, Spyderco stands behind their products with an amazing product warranty.