The Spyderco Cobol (Spyderco part no. C273TIP) comes from designer Paul Alexander, whose techno-primitive style pairs sleek modern lines with classic simplicity. The Cobol expresses his Ball Joint Non-Locking Mechanism through an upswept blade that blends the traditional Japanese tanto pattern with a katana-style point. Precision machined from M390 powder-metallurgy stainless steel, the blade’s saber-ground primary bevel flows into a flat grind near the tip, and a tail extension lets the knife be opened one-handed like a classic straight razor. Solid titanium scales house integral spring arms and seated ball bearings that index holes in the blade to hold it securely in place when open.

Key Specifications

• The blade is M390 powder-metallurgy stainless steel, prized for edge retention and corrosion resistance.
• The blade shape is an upswept hybrid of a Japanese tanto and katana-style point.
• The knife uses a Ball Joint Non-Locking Mechanism, where seated ball bearings index holes in the blade to hold it open.
• Handle scales are solid titanium with integral spring arms built into the frame.
• A reversible deep-pocket wire clip supports left- or right-side, tip-up carry for a fully ambidextrous design.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Cobol have a locking blade? No, it uses a Ball Joint Non-Locking Mechanism where ball bearings index into the blade to hold it securely open.

What steel is the blade made from? M390 powder-metallurgy stainless steel.

Buy the Spyderco Cobol Folding Knife

Paul Alexander’s techno-primitive design gives the Cobol a one-handed straight-razor-style opening unlike most folders on the market. See more from Spyderco or shop our full selection of pocket knives. Order it from our Lubbock, Texas gun shop for fast, insured shipping.