The size, weight, and sheepsfoot design were the big draws, as well as the obvious "rust proof" H1 steel (I haven't put it to the test yet, but I don't doubt what I've read about H1). Opening this with you thumb is easy, and it didn't take too long to learn how to flick it open with the middle finger. The knife came plenty sharp for my needs, and I was pleased at how quickly White Mountain Knives got this out to me. It's my first Spyderco, and hopefully it will be the first of many.