FOGHORN March 2023

Twobirds Flying Publications

SPYDERCO’S Lil TEMPERANCE 3

Copyright 2023, Twobirds Flying Publications. All Rights Reserved.

 SPYDERCO’S Lil TEMPERANCE 3
2023

SPYDERCO’S Lil TEMPERANCE 3 The Lil Temperance 3 features a CPM S30V, 3-

inch leaf blade with a gorgeous flat grind. Its
By: Sal Palma 0.157-inch blade thickness qualifies this 3rd
generation as a robust working knife and very
capable edged weapon.

The knife is perfectly balanced and sits

comfortably in the hand. I found its overall
length to be perfect for just about any use; its
blade length and handle length ratio is perfect.
Overall length is a hair over 7 inches with a
Spyderco’s original Temperance was an
handle of about 4.5 inches. The G10 grip scales
impressive, fixed blade offering, that superbly
are mounted on a stainless-steel liner and
played the role of utilitarian and defensive tool.
feature a generous finger coil and excellent
In 2001, the Temperance’s original design texture, so purchase is near perfect.
objectives carried forward to a muscular folder
which Spyderco branded as Lil Temperance.
Development progressed resulting in a Lil
Temperance 2. These combat-oriented leaf
blade folders were discontinued in 2004.

In 2017, Spyderco made the decision to

resuscitate this exceptional folder, introducing
the Lil Temperance 3, the subject of my review.

The Lil Temperance 3 can only be described as a

top-of-the-line EDC pocket folder. It may be
named Lil, but rest assured this folder is mighty.

Copyright 2023, Twobirds Flying Publications, All Rights

 SPYDERCO’S Lil TEMPERANCE 3
2023

Spyderco went with their traditional hourglass Manufacturer Specifications:

clip design, which can be relocated using the
provided mounting points. You can carry the Lil
Temperance 3 right or left side and tip up or tip
down. You can’t ask for a more flexible EDC
folder.
• Overall Length: 7.30" (185mm)
• Blade Length: 2.90" (74mm)
• Steel: CPM S30V
• Closed Length: 4.40" (112mm)
• Edge Length: 2.90" (74mm)
• Weight: 4.0oz (113g)
• Blade Thickness: 0.157" (4.0mm)
• Handle: G-10
• Clip Position: Ambidextrous
• Tip Carry Position: 4-position.
• Lock Type: Compression
• Grind: Full-Flat
• Sheath: N/A
• Origin: Japan

Spyderco uses a compression lock, which was

developed by Spyderco and provide a rock-solid
lock-up, I normally don’t do prying with a pocket
folder but this knife is up to the task.

If you’re doing heavy cutting, you’ll like the

jimping on the blade’s thumb rest, it enhances
the already excellent grip ergonomics.

The Lil Temperance 3’s axis is smooth, and you

can deploy the blade easily and quickly should
the need arise.

Spyderco’s Lil Temperance 3 is an exceptional

pocket folder in every respect. Its build quality
and design make this EDC folder an excellent
defensive tool or utilitarian tool. Unfortunately,
as of this writing, Spyderco has discontinued the
knife, but you should be able to pick one up at
any number of online retailers. It’s worth the
effort if you’re looking for an EDC knife that will
serve you well whether you’re a plumber or CEO.

-SP

Copyright 2023, Twobirds Flying Publications, All Rights