Spyderco Metropolitan Knife Review: A Sleek and Compact EDC

Hello, knife enthusiasts! Welcome back to another Jimping with Jacrispy blog review. Today, we’re diving into the brand-new Spyderco Metropolitan, a sleek addition to Spyderco’s renowned lineup. Before we slice into the details, make sure to check out our other blog reviews and our YouTube channel to stay updated on all our latest reviews. Now, let’s get straight to the review!

Unboxing the Spyderco Metropolitan

The Spyderco Metropolitan arrives in a compact, no-nonsense black cardboard box, staying true to Spyderco’s minimalist yet functional aesthetic. The front of the box features the iconic Spyderco logo in bold white, with “Metropolitan” printed in a clean, modern sans-serif font. The model number, C213PBK, is subtly noted below, keeping the design uncluttered. On the back, you’ll find standard Spyderco branding, including a barcode, the Golden, Colorado address, and a “Made in Italy” stamp, emphasizing the knife’s quality craftsmanship.

Inside the box, the Metropolitan is snugly nestled in a foam insert to prevent any movement during shipping. Alongside the knife, you’ll find a small packet containing a Spyderco-branded microfiber cleaning cloth—perfect for keeping that blade pristine—and a single Spyderco logo sticker, a nice touch for collectors. No extra frills, just the essentials, which aligns with the Metropolitan’s practical vibe.

The Spyderco Metropolitan: Design and Features

The Spyderco Metropolitan is a non-locking folder designed for everyday carry (EDC), particularly for those in regions with stricter knife laws. It’s part of Spyderco’s SLIPIT series, blending one-handed opening convenience with a socially discreet, non-locking mechanism. Let’s break down its key features.

Handle

The handle is crafted from black fiberglass-reinforced nylon (FRN), a lightweight yet durable material that Spyderco is known for. The textured surface provides excellent grip, even in wet conditions, and at 3.73 inches long, it’s compact enough to slip into a pocket without feeling bulky. The handle lacks a lanyard hole, which might disappoint some users, but it keeps the design sleek and minimalist. The grip feels secure and ergonomic, fitting comfortably in small to medium-sized hands, though those with larger hands might find it a tad snug.

Pocket Clip

The Metropolitan sports a reversible, deep-carry wire pocket clip, configurable for left- or right-side tip-up carry. This clip is a standout feature, allowing the knife to sit low in the pocket for discreet carry while remaining easily accessible. The wire design is lightweight and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk, making it ideal for EDC.

Lock Type

The Metropolitan uses Spyderco’s Slipit mechanism, a non-locking, notched-joint design that relies on spring pressure to keep the blade open during use. This makes it compliant with knife regulations in many areas while still providing a secure feel. Demonstrating the mechanism, the blade opens smoothly with a satisfying click and closes with minimal effort, though it requires a deliberate push to overcome the detent—adding a layer of safety.

Blade

The heart of the Metropolitan is its 2.68-inch leaf-shaped blade, crafted from Böhler-Uddeholm M398 stainless steel. This advanced particle metallurgy steel is known for its exceptional hardness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance, making it a premium choice for a knife in this class. The blade features a stonewashed finish, which not only looks sleek but also hides scratches and wear from daily use. Its full-flat grind enhances slicing performance, making it ideal for precise tasks like opening packages or cutting food on the go.

The blade includes Spyderco’s signature Trademark Round Hole for ambidextrous, one-handed opening—no thumb studs here, keeping the design clean. A textured index-finger choil provides added control and safety, though there’s no jimping on the spine, which some users might miss for extra thumb traction.

Specifications

Here’s a quick rundown of the Metropolitan’s specs:

• Overall Length: 6.31 inches (160 mm)

• Closed Length: 3.73 inches (94 mm)

• Blade Length: 2.68 inches (68 mm)

• Cutting Edge: ~2.43 inches (62 mm)

• Blade Thickness: 0.118 inches (3 mm)

• Weight: 1.6 oz (45 g)

• Blade Material: Böhler M398 stainless steel

• Blade Style: Leaf-shaped drop point

• Blade Grind: Full-flat

• Blade Finish: Stonewashed

• Handle Material: Black FRN

• Lock Type: Slipit (non-locking, notched-joint)

• Origin: Made in Italy

At just 1.6 ounces, the Metropolitan is featherlight, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize portability without sacrificing performance.

Variants and Availability

As of this review’s release, the Spyderco Metropolitan is available in only one variant: the C213PBK with a black FRN handle and stonewashed M398 blade. You can find it on our website, ready for purchase. Spyderco may introduce additional variants in the future, but for now, this configuration is the sole offering, striking a balance of style and functionality.

Final Thoughts

The Spyderco Metropolitan is a stellar addition to Spyderco’s SLIPIT lineup, offering a refined, legally compliant EDC option that doesn’t skimp on quality. The Böhler M398 blade delivers top-tier performance, while the lightweight FRN handle and reversible clip make it a joy to carry. Its compact size—sitting perfectly between the UK Penknife and Urban models—makes it versatile for urban environments or outdoor tasks. While the lack of a lanyard hole or jimping might be minor drawbacks for some, the overall package is hard to beat for a non-locking folder.

If you enjoyed this review, please consider sharing this post with your friends, checking out our other blogs and our YouTube channel for more knife content. The Spyderco Metropolitan is available now on our website, so don’t miss out! Thanks for reading, and stay sharp!