Spyderco Salt I Black FRN Folding Knife (3″ Satin Serr) C88SBK

A myth in the knife world is that, out there somewhere exists steel with high-performance cutting abilities that cannot rust. A Japanese steel foundry recently turned this myth into reality with the introduction of a steel they call H1.* H1 is a PH steel meaning it is a precipitation-processed alloy, that’s rolled hard without heat-treating and has .1% nitrogen which acts like carbon in the steel matrix, but does not react to chlorine making rust. Surprisingly, it holds a sharpened cutting edge comparable to the premium knife steels being used in the industry by most knife manufacturers.

One of Spyderco’s top sellers is our Delica Model. Users gravitate to it due to its sensible size, versatile shape and tested durability. It makes complete sense to plug H1 into this model, so we did, with a couple modifications. Salt I has a more rounded tip that’s a bit thicker at the point. Since H1 was developed specifically for use in and around water, rounding the tip better met the requirements of cutting chores associated with boating and fishing. The Spyderco Round Hole is increased in diameter to 14mm facilitating easier access for gloved or wet hands. All inside/outside steel components (lock bar, pins and clip) have been treated making them impervious to rust and pitting. Volcano Grip texturing covers both sides of the FRN handle for friction-resistance to slipping. David Boye’s locking lever dent is a standard feature that inhibits the lock from accidental release if the handle is gripped with great force. A matching black titanium pocket clip positions for left/right tip-up portability. A hole running through the hollow clip screw makes a lanyard pipe for stringing thong or cord through when using around water.

*This Spyderco Salt model is currently transitioning from H1 steel to H2.