Spyderco Sage 1 Cool Gray Maxamet

• compact EDC knife
• only 94g weight
• G10 handle and Maxamet steel blade

The gray eminence
In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Michael Walker linerlock, Spyderco are re-releasing the Sage 1, which was discontinued in 2019. Since the Sage series has always been a sort of homage to a wide variety of lock systems, the choice of this model comes as no surprise.

However, instead of simply bringing an old model back into the lineup, Spyderco have given the Sage 1 a proper steel update. The gray G10 handle scales already indicate it: the legendary CarTech Maxamet steel is used here. This is one of the most modern, powder-metallurgical steels that the market currently has to offer. With a carbide volume of a whopping 22 percent and a carbon content of 2.5 percent (here one could actually already discuss whether this material is still steel by definition), this material is truly impressive. Thus, Maxamet is hardened by Spyderco to up to 69 HRC, which ensures that the cutting edge still remains sharp even after endless cuts. Accordingly, re-sharpening (if it should ever be necessary) requires a little more patience. To protect the blade from rust, we recommend cleaning the steel with a little oil now and then.

The handle is equipped with Spyderco’s typical G10 handle scales, which were chosen in a light gray for this version. The polished and drilled steel liners provide the necessary stability of the knife and also represent the very secure locking liner lock.

The deep-carry wire clip allows the Sage 1 to disappear inconspicuously in your pocket. Thanks to the flat design of the knife and the low weight, this knife is a fantastic EDC tool.