Spyderco Shaman REC Exclusive Python, w/ box, Pre-Owned

I've carried a fair few Shamans over the years — G-10, Micarta, even the DLC blackout — but when REC dropped this Python version I didn't hesitate for a second. Glad I didn't. Out of the box, the scales stopped me cold. The Python Micarta has this warmth to it, rich browns and reds that shift depending on the light, and the texture is just grippy enough without being aggressive. It doesn't look like a knife that came out of a factory — it looks like something that was made deliberately, with care. After a few weeks of carry it's already started to darken slightly in the high-contact areas, which I love. Micarta that patinas is Micarta done right. The CPM 10V blade is the real treat for a steel nerd. Edge retention is on another level compared to S30V — I've been using mine regularly for over a month and it's still shaving sharp with zero touch-up. You'll need a proper diamond stone when the time finally comes, but that's a trade I'll take every day. Action out of the box was a bit stiff, and I'll be honest — there was some lock stick too. Took it apart, cleaned the pivot, added a drop of oil, and now it's dialed in. Smooth, positive, and that Compression Lock snaps home like it means it. Shouldn't be necessary on a knife at this price point, sure, but it's a five-minute fix and I do it with most of my knives anyway. It's a big knife — no pretending otherwise — but it disappears in the pocket better than you'd expect. I reach for it most mornings without thinking twice. If you're on the fence: don't wait. These don't stick around, and you'll regret missing it more than you'll regret spending the money.