The Parata is quite a unique knife in terms of both shape and mechanics. Designed by automotive engineer Paul Alexander (one of our favorite Spyderco collaborators), it features an unusually rounded blade and the unique (patented) Stop Lock. Currently, it is the only model ever made with this lock, but there are new prototypes in the works featuring a new variant of it. This lock is cool for a few reasons. From my observation of it, it's something like a cross between the back lock, and crossbar ("Benchmade Axis") lock. The space required for it is surprisingly small - the majority of the handle of the Parata is actually just G10 with no liners which makes it surprisingly light for its size. The Stop Lock also is quite easy to operate with one hand ambidextrously without risk of cutting oneself. It's also not too difficult to dis/reassemble and maintain, but be careful while doing it. Also note that the thumb studs screw off with a torx bit, which was not mentioned in the original tutorial I used when I disassembled mine. These are long discontinued by Spyderco but still hold a special place among its fans, especially people who love it as a skinning knife. For more detail, the Spyderco description is below. Meaning "prepared" or "ready" in Latin, the Parata is a dramatically styled folding knife that delivers incredible performance in a refreshingly unorthodox package. Its stunning blade is crafted from VG-10 stainless steel and features a pronounced belly, a high flat grind, and a broad profile that together give it exceptional edge geometry and cutting performance. Its unique shape also creates a highly functional integral guard that protects the user’s hand while complementing the knife’s refined ergonomics. To ensure swift, positive, one-handed opening with either hand, the blade includes a fully accessible Trademark Round Hole™. The Parata’s blade is linked to a sleek, linerless G-10 handle with Spyderco’s patented Stop Lock™ -- a high-strength, extremely user friendly lock mechanism that releases by lifting a toggle on the spine of the handle. Introduced for the first time in this knife, the Stop Lock is amazingly compact and offers smooth, ambidextrous operation. Its mechanism is housed between textured G-10 scales that are gracefully curved for a secure grip and joined by stainless steel standoffs to create a lightweight, easy-to-clean, open-backed construction style. To balance discreet carry and instant access, the Parata’s handle includes a reversible deep-pocket wire clip that supports left or right-side tip-up carry and a lined lanyard hole for the easy attachment of fobs and lanyards. These features complement the knife’s symmetrical design to make all aspects of its carry and operation completely ambidextrous. The Parata is a remarkably refined folding knife that reflects the impressive talents of its designer, Paul Alexander, and proudly introduces Spyderco’s latest innovation in lock technology. Aside from the ID sticker stain, scuffs, and minor scratches, I'm not sure what's wrong with these.
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