Following a sold-out Blade HQ exclusive in August, Spyderco brings back the Tenacious Tanto with a black oxide blade and hardware finish that adds corrosion resistance to an already excellent $80 EDC knife.
Spyderco’s Tenacious has long been one of the best entry-level folders on the market. Last month, a Blade HQ exclusive version with natural jade G-10 scales and a tanto blade sold out almost immediately. Apparently, the response was loud enough that Spyderco and Blade HQ are back for round two.
The new Tenacious Tanto Black Oxide keeps the same aggressive tanto profile and 8Cr13MoV steel, a budget-conscious choice that sharpens easily and holds an edge well enough for daily tasks. The real change is the finish. The blade, liners, liner lock, pocket clip, and hardware are all coated in black oxide.
That does two things. Aesthetically, it gives the knife a low-profile, tactical look that pairs nicely with the translucent jade G-10 scales. Functionally, the black oxide layer improves corrosion resistance, which means less maintenance and a longer useful life.
Key details remain unchanged:
Four-position reversible pocket clip for versatile carry.
Liner lock with a solid, predictable feel.
Natural G-10 scales that look like jade.
Thumb hole opener for one-handed deployment.
Closing: At $80, the Spyderco Tenacious Tanto Black Oxide is only five dollars more than the previous version and arguably a better value thanks to the added corrosion protection. It is not a revolutionary release, but it is exactly the kind of thoughtful, affordable update that keeps the Tenacious line relevant year after year.