I like the grip material and they way that CRKT has designed the grip on this small blade. I like that it has a 'needle' like tip on it and have, as a matter of fact, thought about grinding it sightly so that it's not so dangerous, but then much of its purpose is defeated - kind of - but it's still intimidating in that area even so. It has a "big brother" called the "Dragons Tooth" or something like that. If there's a complaint from me it is that the sheath is possibly not "snapping and clenching" as most kydex sheaths are not. I cannot figure out why the knife making industry hasn't figured out themselves that whoever they contract these 'plastic' piece of junk sheaths to just aren't making the grade as far as complimenting their sales. I would pay extra for a good sheath or even like to figure out myself how to make leather sheaths or come up with a mass production kydex system where my $400 bade doesn't fall out of the pathetic $13 sheath it came with. WHO DOES THAT!!? Dummies, that's who. And sooner or later ALL of the kydex sheaths wear to become so loose that this happens, regardless of age (new one or older one). There - there' s a million buck for ya if you want to take these sheaths and make them 'secure' the blades to where they won't fall out of them. Initially I wasn't going to post this part about the sheaths but it's high time somebody said something about this because I --- KNOW --- I'm not the only one with this gripe as I've heard it time and again...

I have a weakness for neck knives and find excuses to buy them whenever possible! While I generally skip over CRKT knives @ 'the knife counter', CRKT seem to be really doing something special with their line of Minimalist neck knives (I don't know if the SPEW is technically considered a 'Minimalist' proper, but its along the same line.)
First of all, this knife is impressively SHARP right out of the box!! I almost hesitated to use the knife to cut anything at first for fear that I would damage what I consider to be a visually beautiful executed knife. I was finally able to start using the knife once I told myself that if I damaged its aesthetic appeal, I could just purchase another one because the price is so absolutely reasonable ($20)!!! The sheath holds the SPEW very securely when dangling from one's neck. There is an adjustable neck lanyard and removable belt clip attachment, which just adds to the versatility of this knife.
I can't emphasize enough how much I love everything about this knife. I was debating buying it; but when I needed to add an extra item to get amazon free shipping, thats all it took. I'm glad I made the impulse purchase! LOL

I also have the CRKT Minimalist Bowie. I like this one much better. I find the slightly longer Wharncliffe blade is more useful and the SPEW's handle, without the deep recessed finger grooves of the Minimalist, allows for more varied cutting angles in your hand. The (unfortunately named) SPEW is still very compact and carries horizontal at my belt buckle easily. The sheaths are very similar, and are super light molded material. Some have said the knives are loose in the sheaths. On this one and the Minimalist, I have found if you attach the belt loop next to the opening of the sheath, the tension of the screws fastening the loop there makes the sheath's grip on the knife much more snug. The blade is easy to sharpen, which means it can dull quicker than some, but it does fine. I expect to give my edc a few licks on the crock sticks regularly. A good deal for the $$, this is a fine tool.

A fixed blade knife with a 3" blade is the longest blade we can "conceal" here in Illinois. I have mine fixed up for horizontal carry on my belt under my shirt. It is inexpensive, quality made, lightweight, and just "disappears" under my shirt. Mine arrived in perfect condition and wickedly sharp. I would worry about breaking the very fine point off if I used this for an every day carry (EDC) knife, but I only use it in an emergency. The kydex sheath isn't the greatest, but the one I received works fine for the intended purpose and holds the knife securely in place.

I don't have advanced Shaolin priest training in carrying knives, or a complex theory of carry. After having this knife for a month as daily carry, I compare to the CRKT 2385 Folts Minimalist as follows:
1. This 2388 knife is longer and heavier than the 2385. That reduces certain options for me.
2. The adjustable clip for 2388 can be positioned in multiple ways for belt carry, which is good, but I could never find a position or angle that worked well.
3. The 2385 model can function very well as a neck knife (with a nylon lanyard or chain), and the sheath does hold very securely, even handle downward. In contrast, this 2388 seems a bit heavy to be a neck knife with constant risk of falling out of the sheath.

So somebody in night crew at work stole my 2388, and I'll let them have it with my blessing. THe reason I lost it in the first place is because I couldn't find a sufficiently comfortable carry position. Instead, if I get another neck knife, it will be another 2385. I've had a 2385 for 3 years, and haven't lost it yet.