Welcome to KnifeHub.com, where we celebrate the legacy of innovation in knife design. Join us as we unravel the fascinating story of the Yojimbo 2, a testament to the collaboration between Michael Janich and Spyderco that has spanned over two decades.
Back in the late '90s, Michael Janich challenged convention with the Ronin, Spyderco's first-generation fixed blade that pioneered the concept of the "tactical Wharncliffe." This design marked a departure from traditional martial blade profiles and laid the foundation for the Wharncliffe-style tactical knives we see today. The Ronin, meaning "wave man" in Japanese, was born out of Janich's collaboration with custom knifemaker Mike Snody and became a catalyst for a significant shift in knife design.
Fast forward to 2003, and Spyderco introduced the Yojimbo, a folding tactical Wharncliffe designed by Janich. Manufactured in Spyderco's Golden, CO factory, the Yojimbo featured a full-flat-ground CPM S30V Wharncliffe blade, nested stainless steel liners, and textured G10 scales. Despite initial skepticism, it gained traction in the market and evolved into a significant milestone in the world of tactical knives.
In 2011, Janich refined his design philosophy, resulting in the Yojimbo 2. This purpose-designed self-defense knife, with its more refined features, earned a solid place in Spyderco's product line. Its success led to the introduction of a dedicated trainer model in 2017, showcasing the enduring popularity of the Wharncliffe profile.
Not stopping there, the Yojimbo 2 also inspired a fixed-blade counterpart, the Ronin 2, in collaboration with custom knifemaker Mickey Yurco. This unique evolution in design highlights the spirit of collaboration and innovation that defines the relationship between Michael Janich and Spyderco.
Let's explore the key features of the Yojimbo 2:
- Blade Length: 3.20"
- Closed Length: 4.49"
- Overall Length: 7.69"
- Cutting Edge: 3.00"
- Blade Thickness: 0.145"
- Blade Material: CPM-S30V Stainless Steel
- Blade Style: Wharncliffe
- Blade Grind: Hollow
- Blade Finish: Satin
- Blade Edge: Plain
- Handle Material: G10
- Handle Colors: Black
- Locking Mechanism: Compression Lock
- Pocket Clip: Tip-Up/Down, Right/Left Carry
- Model Number: C85GP2
- Model Name: Yojimbo 2
- Weight: 4.1 oz.
- Designer: Michael Janich
- Made in the USA
Elevate your collection with the Yojimbo 2, a knife that not only reflects Janich's philosophy on personal-defense knives but also stands as a symbol of collaboration, innovation, and more than 20 years of shared passion between Michael Janich and Spyderco. Available exclusively on KnifeHub.com – where the story of extraordinary knives unfolds.