PKAL PLAIN BLACK G-10 – C103GP

Description

Spyderco C103GP PKAL G-10 purpose-built folding knife designed in collaboration with ShivWorks (Craig Douglas) specifically for the Pikal (or P’Kal) style of knife work. “Pikal” comes from the Philippine Visayan dialect meaning “to rip,” reflecting its focus on reverse-grip tactics common in certain Filipino martial arts and defensive training systems.

Design and Purpose

This isn’t your typical everyday carry or utility folder—it’s a specialized defensive tool optimized for reverse-edge techniques. The blade is a modified hawkbill/Wharncliffe profile that curves to a sharp point, directing force toward the tip during pulling or ripping cuts. This geometry excels in close-quarters defensive scenarios where downward or pulling slashes are emphasized.

Key Specifications

Blade: 2.95″ (75mm) CPM-S30V stainless steel, fully flat-ground, satin finish, plain edge

Blade Thickness: 0.125″ (3.2mm)

Cutting Edge: ~2.78–2.80″

Overall Length (Open): 7.35″ (187mm)

Closed Length: 4.40″ (112mm)

Handle: Black G-10 scales with texturing for secure grip; features a prominent finger choil on the spine side for pinky indexing in reverse grip

Weight: Approximately 3.6–3.7 oz (105g)

Lock: Ball Bearing Lock (smooth and secure)

Opening: Spyderco thumb hole + Emerson Wave opener for lightning-fast deployment as the knife is drawn from the pocket

Clip: Tip-up, ambidextrous carry

Origin: Made in the USA (Golden, Colorado)

Features and Handling

The black G-10 handle provides excellent durability, corrosion resistance, and a solid, non-slip feel even in wet conditions. The design includes a pronounced choil that helps lock the pinky in place during reverse grip, enhancing control during dynamic movements.5bbde7

CPM-S30V is a premium powdered metallurgy steel known for outstanding edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance—ideal for a knife that may see hard use or exposure to moisture.

The Emerson Wave feature is a standout: it catches the pocket edge during the draw and snaps the blade open automatically, making it one of the fastest deploying folders available.

Who It’s For

The P’Kal shines for users trained in reverse-grip knife methods or those seeking a highly capable defensive EDC. While specialized, many owners also appreciate it as a capable general-use knife thanks to its strong construction and premium materials. It’s compact enough for pocket carry but feels substantial in hand.

Summary

The Spyderco C103GP P’Kal is a high-end, no-compromise tool that blends martial arts-specific design with Spyderco’s legendary quality and materials. Its combination of rapid deployment, premium S30V steel, secure Ball Bearing Lock, and purpose-driven ergonomics makes it a standout in the tactical folding knife category.

Additional information