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Author: Logan M. Fraser
Occupation: Custom Knife Modder & Spyderco Parts Specialist
Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada

A Spyderco pocket clip upgrade can be one of the fastest and most impactful changes you can make to your EDC knife. Whether you’re chasing deeper carry, less pocket wear, or simply a cooler look, there’s more to it than just picking a random clip off eBay.

Having customized hundreds of Spydercos, I’ve tested nearly every clip configuration out there—OEM, aftermarket, 3D-machined, deep carry, and even no clip at all. Here’s what works… and what doesn’t.

Why Bother Upgrading the Clip?

The stock Spyderco clip works, but it’s not for everyone. Some models come with a standard spoon clip that many find bulky, shiny, or uncomfortable in hand.

Benefits of upgrading include:

Deep carry for less visibility
Better pocket retention
Left/right hand configurability
Aesthetic upgrades
Titanium or milled materials for strength

For those who carry daily or work in tactical/EDC environments, a better clip can mean a more secure and comfortable experience.

The Clip Styles That Work Best

1. Deep Carry Wire Clips

These are a favorite for many Spyderco fans. Lightweight and discreet.

Pros:

Almost disappears in pocket
Lightweight and minimalist
Great retention without tearing your pants

Best For: Urban carry, office, casual users

Popular Models: Native 5 LW, Para 3 Lightweight

Replacement wire clips are available at https://spydercoparts.com—make sure you grab the version that matches your handle type (FRN vs G10).

2. Titanium Milled Clips

These offer top-tier strength and style. Precision-machined with better ergonomics.

Pros:

Stronger than stamped steel
Won’t bend under pressure
More comfortable in hand

Cons:

Slightly heavier
May require aftermarket screws

I personally love these on hard-use models like the Shaman or PM2.

3. Low-Profile Spoon Clips

You can mod the standard spoon clip by sanding, stonewashing, or anodizing it. Not a full upgrade—but definitely an improvement.

Tip: Use fine-grit sandpaper and a Dremel to soften the edges and reduce hotspotting.

Clips That Don’t Work So Well

1. Universal Clips from Amazon

They promise compatibility but rarely fit Spyderco hole patterns well. Plus, the materials often strip easily.

2. Overly Fancy 3D Clips

Some look amazing, but they stick out like a sore thumb—literally. Raised patterns can cause hot spots in the hand.

3. Painted Black Clips

These tend to scratch easily and look worse over time. Go for PVD-coated or stonewashed finishes instead.

What to Look for in a Replacement Clip

Here’s a quick checklist:

Hole pattern compatibility (Spyderco’s 3-hole pattern is common, but not universal)
Material – titanium > stainless > aluminum
Finish – stonewashed, anodized, or matte PVD
Carry depth – decide if you want full concealment or partial clip exposure

You can find well-fitted clips specifically made for Spydercos at https://spydercoparts.com. These are designed to match factory tolerances.

Tools You’ll Need

Torx driver set (T6 and T8 usually)
Threadlocker (like Loctite Blue)
Soft cloth or mat to protect blade and screws

Don’t forget to work over a tray or towel—those screws love to disappear!

How to Swap the Clip – Quick Guide

Open your knife and lay it flat.
Remove the current clip using the correct Torx driver.
Line up the new clip holes—double check orientation.
Apply a small drop of threadlocker to each screw.
Tighten just until snug. Don’t over-torque.
Test clip retention and carry feel.

If the screws spin or won’t hold, stop. You may need longer screws or inserts, depending on the clip thickness.

Bonus Mods to Pair with a Clip Swap

While you’re customizing your knife, consider:

Custom backspacers for color and texture
Brass or titanium lanyard beads
Anodized screw sets
Polished washers or phosphor bronze upgrades

All of these are available at https://spydercoparts.com and chosen for drop-in compatibility with popular models.

Tips for Lefties and Tip-Up Carry Fans

Most aftermarket clips still assume right-handed, tip-up use. Make sure to verify orientation before you buy.

If you’re a lefty, prioritize:

Reversible clip mounts
Slim profiles
Customizable screw lengths (some scales are thinner on one side)

The Para 3, Manix 2, and Endura have excellent ambidextrous support out of the box.

Helpful Community Discussions

Want to see what other Spyderco fans are doing with their clips? Check out:

https://bladeforums.com – deep modding discussions
https://reddit.com/r/spyderco – real-world photos, user mods, feedback

You’ll see plenty of inspiration—and avoid common pitfalls.

Final Thoughts: Clips Matter More Than You Think

Most Spyderco owners don’t think about the clip until it snags, tears a pocket, or digs into your palm. A quality replacement can instantly elevate your knife from good to great.

As someone who’s worked on everything from Salt Series to Sprint Runs, I can tell you—clip upgrades are one of the most satisfying mods out there. It’s like getting a new knife without spending big.

Got questions about what clip fits your model or want help choosing the best material? Drop a comment below and I’ll get back to you personally.

Let me know what kind of mod tips or Spyderco content you’d like to see in next week’s post.

Upgrading Your Spyderco’s Pocket Clip: What Works and What Doesn’t