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Following the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the carry of any type of knife aboard an airplane was strictly prohibited. In early 2013, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced a plan to change U.S. security regulations and once again allow knives on airplanes. Although the plan was later withdrawn, Spyderco had already risen to the occasion by designing a highly functional non-locking pocketknife that would have conformed with the TSA’s proposed guidelines. That knife is the Roadie.

In essence, the Roadie is a highly evolved penknife that is more practical and user-friendly than its historical predecessors. It’s most distinguishing characteristic—the “Double Dent™”—is a pair of symmetrical dimples in the blade that provide a solid purchase for a fingernail-free two-handed opening. Far superior to a traditional nail nick, they also do not collect dirt or debris.

Unlike traditional penknives, the Roadie also features a subtle index-finger choil that increases control of the knife during use and acts as a safeguard against unintentional closure. These enhanced features elevate the Roadie far beyond the conventional penknife and set a new standard in socially friendly cutting tools. Although the knife was never given the opportunity to respond to its original “calling, ” the result of the project was far too good to pass up.

The business end of the Roadie is a sheepfoot-style blade ground from Böhler-Uddeholm N690Co steel, a high-performance stainless steel alloyed with cobalt, molybdenum, and vanadium. Its wide blade profile and full-flat grind create incredible edge geometry for a keen, scalpel-sharp edge. The broad blade also provides real estate for the distinctive “Double Dent” feature that allows the blade to be easily opened with a pinch grip of the thumb and index finger. Although not intended as an opening feature, a Trademark Round Hole™ in the blade proudly identifies the Roadie as a Spyderco product.

At the base of the blade near its juncture with the handle, there is a subtle forefinger choil (finger groove). Placing your index finger on the choil provides excellent control of the edge and creates a natural “stop” to help prevent the knife from closing unintentionally. Both the choil and the opposing thumb ramp on the spine of the blade feature jimping (textured grooves) to promote a positive, non-slip grip.

Unlike a traditional slipjoint, the Roadie’s blade is held open by an improved notched-joint mechanism. Its spring also forms the handle’s full-length back strap, giving it structural strength and providing a foundation for the durable fiberglass-reinforced-nylon (FRN) scales. The injection-molded scales are contoured for comfort and feature a recessed Spyderco “bug” logo on both sides. They are also available in a wide variety of colors to suit every taste.

The Roadie represents a quantum leap in the evolution of modern pocketknife design and sets a new standard of excellence for the breed. We are confident that yours will serve you well.