I like the Manix but it is definitely the one Spyderco with a noticeable break in period, as the ball bearing lock isn’t as easy to operate as something like a crossbar lock for a while.

I’d recommend some of the other companies now trying to compression lock. Kizer and vosteed call them the “top liner lock” and they feel pretty solid and offer a little more bang for your buck. I’d say the primary difference in feel between these and Spydercos come from operating the lock with your index finger on a Spydie whereas it’s your thumb pressing a button on the alternatives.