As a Colorado native, I have a longstanding history with Spyderco Knives, and it holds a special place for me. Almost every time I go back to Colorado, I make a point of heading to Golden for a visit. So, I have been privileged to peek behind the curtain as the company has worked to expand its facility. During my recent trip, I finally got to see the finished product, and it is worth talking about.
Behind the Scenes at Spyderco Knives
When you walk in the main entrance, you are greeted by a reception desk staffed by a very friendly receptionist. Just above the desk is a walkway that bridges the offices and the manufacturing facility. On the front of this walkway was a welcome greeting on the television screen that Spyderco uses for announcements and other important information: “Welcome Joshua Swanagon of Athlon Outdoors.” What an honor.
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While waiting for my meeting, I went into the outlet store just to the left of the reception desk. As I mentioned, I have been here before, many times. However, this was the first taste of the growth I was about to witness since my last visit. The store didn’t quite double in size, but it was close.
Most notable was the expansion of the area honoring our service men and women. The centerpiece is a 9/11 tribute constructed from twisted girders from the Twin Towers. Also included is a display of knives designed specifically for military personnel. Finally, the theme is rounded out with flag displays and plaques lining the walls, depicting military units and operations that were grateful to Spyderco for its continued support.
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Of course, the whole reason for the store is knives. All the knives. And it doesn’t disappoint. The store features display cases filled with knives, sharpening equipment, and other gear for purchase. Likewise, there are many displays of Spyderco knives throughout the company’s history, weaving an intricate tale of its journey as an iconic brand.
A new feature in the store is the addition of the Warranty Department. Spyderco has always had this department, but they relocated it to the store so customers can bring their knives in for sharpening and repair. A large picture window allows you to watch while the work is being done.
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Who is Spyderco?
While I was perusing the store, I was met by Kelly Towers, Director of Sales & Marketing, and Juliann Pardo, Executive Assistant Sales & Marketing. From there, we made our way upstairs to the offices. This was another big change from my last visit, with a new layout and more offices and meeting rooms.
While walking through the office area, it was evident that Spyderco treats its employees like family. The walls were riddled with employee recognitions and acknowledgements. Not to mention, a wall of employee photos, all arranged in alphabetical order, so favoritism doesn’t play a role. Additionally, every office had very unique décor, assembled by the employee, giving off a sense that no one has designs on leaving anytime soon.
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Throughout the hallways were windows with a view down to the manufacturing and warehouse areas. This was where I got the first glimpse of the manufacturing expansion, and it was quite impressive.
Coming full circle out of the office space, we arrived at the new meeting, announcement, and event hall. It is a large room with sound baffles hanging from the ceiling that share the aesthetics with a Spyderco knife. From here, you can either double back to the offices or continue through a door, which will bring you back to the store.
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However, we doubled back and made our way to manufacturing.
Inside the Factory
As I mentioned, I have been to the Spyderco factory a few times over the years. So, I had something to compare the new changes to. And the changes were dramatic.
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With that said, the most notable thing about the new facilities is that there is a lot more room. This not only allows for more machinery to streamline processes, but it also provides more space for working inventory. As a result, this helps to increase production. Likewise, some processes that were previously handled in different facilities can now be handled in-house.
There are a lot of knife companies that have robust catalogs, jam-packed with different models. However, no other manufacturer comes close to the number of steels that Spyderco works with (as evidenced by their massive new warehouse). Each of these steels requires different processes during manufacturing, and this additional space makes it much easier.
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As expected for a company of this size, many of the steps in the knife-making process are automated. However, each step is overseen and controlled by an employee. Then, each knife is hand-finished—from putting on the final edge bevel to final assembly. Finally, after each knife is hand-assembled, it goes to Quality Control for final inspection and shipping.
Spyderco takes the quality of its knives very seriously, and that is something that only the human touch can achieve. And it is something tangible that end users notice.
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Spyderco Knives Earns Its Place in Pockets Around the World
Maybe it’s the compatriot in me, but I have been using Spyderco knives for many years—much longer than I have been a knife writer. However, after seeing behind the scenes, I have a newfound appreciation for the company’s knives. From its personalized, hands-on approach to knifemaking to attention to quality control, Spyderco Knives earns its place in pockets around the world.
Although the dates have not been finalized, there will be a 50th Anniversary event next year (2026). So, make sure to keep an eye on the company website for details. If you happen to be in Colorado at that time, you owe it to yourself to go.
If you are military or law enforcement, make sure to take advantage of the discounts provided in the OpFocus Professional Purchase Program.
