It uses Kevin Smock's Button-Release Compression Lock, a variation of Spyderco's Compression Lock. The lock holds the blade open from the spine of the handle, and a button releases it, so you can close the knife one-handed by pressing the button. Each knife in Spyderco's Sage Series honors the designer behind its lock, and the Sage 6 recognizes Kevin Smock.

No. CPM REX 121 is a high-speed tool steel, not a stainless steel, so it can rust or stain if left wet. Wipe the blade dry after use and keep a light coat of oil on it, especially in humid weather or during pocket carry.

Use diamond or CBN abrasives. The hard carbides in CPM REX 121 resist conventional stones, so diamond plates or a guided system with diamond stones will set and maintain the edge more efficiently. Touching up the edge before it gets very dull makes maintenance easier.

The reversible deep-pocket wire clip carries the knife tip-up on either side of the body. The knife ships with its clip installed; this is a knife-only listing, so no sheath is included. Packaging and contents are set by Spyderco and are subject to change.

Yes. Spyderco donates approximately 5% of sales of the Sage line to the Colorado chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, which supports Alzheimer's care, support, and research. You can learn more at alz.org/co.

Spyderco makes the Sage 6 C123GPBOR in Taiwan. Spyderco covers the owner of a genuine Spyderco product for the life of the product against defects in material and workmanship. The warranty does not cover damage from accidents, abuse, misuse, improper sharpening, or normal wear and tear, and shipping to and from Spyderco is the customer's responsibility. For warranty service, contact Spyderco at 800-525-7770 x3 or customerservice@spyderco.com.