Automatic Knives Review And Comparison

UPDATED :  

Who doesn't like automation? Technology has given us ATMs, motion-sensor doors, and belt-felt full-auto M240 Bravos. Naturally, we love automatic knives, too. Sadly, they're highly regulated in the United States and around the world. Many politicians fear this genre for the same reason they fear guns: ignorance. So let's drop some knowledge.

Automatic blades open, well, automatically when you push a switch, lever, or button. While there are variations, they can be lumped into two categories: folding and out-the-front (OTF). The former looks and works similarly to a common pocket knife.

The latter has a sliding blade that shoots out the top of the handle. A double-action OTF can both eject and retract the blade using a switch or lever. A single-action OTF will only automatically eject the blade and requires you to pull back a charging handle to retract the blade and reset the spring.

So, does "automatic" mean better? Not necessarily. As with firearms, which knife you buy should be dictated by what you plan to use it for. Want a speedy self-defense weapon? Some auto knives open slower than manual folders. Looking for a heavy-duty tool? Consider a fixed blade.

After all, more moving parts mean more chances for failure. Also, some autos don't have safeties, so accidental activation can leave you with a hole you weren't born with.

Then there's that whole legality issue. (Note: Not all of the companies whose knives are featured here will sell them online due to federal laws. You may need to find local independent retailers.) But, if you've done your legal research, have the cash, and live in a region where auto knives are kosher, you're sure to find a knife here that gets your autonomic nervous system pumping.

Microtech Knives UTX 70 Review
Make	Microtech Knives
Model	UTX-70
OAL	5.91 inches
Blade Length	2.44 inches
Blade Material	Elmax stainless steel
Weight	1.23 ounces
MSRP	$230

Microtech is known for automatic-knife innovations. Their Ultratech model is a modern classic. The puppy we're testing here is the low-carb version of the Ultratech, reduced in size by 30 percent(hence the name UTX-70).

It's the smallest and lightest one in this buyer's guide. Like its bigger brother, the UTX-70 is a double-action OTF with a spring that remains at rest in both the open and closed positions to minimize fatigue. Made in the USA.

PROS

• Brilliant engineering matched with top-quality materials.
• The auto action is lightning fast, opening and closing with a satisfying "thwak" sound.
• The 6061-series aluminum handle and sharp Elmax blade are available in various options.

CONS

• While quite comfortable to carry in your pocket, it'll feel like a Q-tip in the hands of those with huge booger hooks.
• Like most OTF, we're not sure how the tang will hold up to hard-core abuse laterally.

SOG Specialty Knives & Tools SOG-TAC Automatic
Make	SOG Specialty Knives & Tools
Model	SOG-TAC Automatic
OAL	8 inches
Blade Length3.5 inches
Blade Material	AUS-8 stainless steel
Weight	3.8 ounces
MSRP	$207

The SOG-TAC lineup was designed as a backup weapon for cops and troops, so it's built to withstand plenty of punishment.

It fits in the medium-to-large category, but feels compact due to its slim and lightweight 6061-series aluminum body.

The clip-point blade features a black titanium-nitride finish and a partially serrated edge, but it's also available with a plain edge. It features a safety switch that can keep the blade locked opened or closed.

PROS

• Though not blindingly fast, the auto opening is smooth and reliable.
• While not a top-tier steel, the AUS-8 blade is plenty sharp when stabbing and slicing.
• The ergonomic handle fits like a glove in the hand.
• The reversible pocket clip can be worn on either side.

CONS

• The jimping on the blade's spine is a little too aggressive.
• Surprisingly, the blade jiggles a bit in our unscientific, two-handed lateral strength test.

Kershaw Knives Launch 5
Make	Kershaw Knives
Model	Launch 5
OAL	8.5 inches
Blade Length	3.4 inches
Blade Material	CPM 154 stainless steel
Weight	4.1 ounces
MSRP	$180

In recent years, Kershaw Knives has teamed up with famed knife-maker Ernest Emerson to produce his groundbreaking custom designs at mass-market quantities for a more affordable cost to the consumer.

The Launch 5 isn't exactly one of their cheaper collaborations, but it's no less impressive.

It features a push-button action, a CPM 154 blade, and an aluminum handle. The Launch 5 is made in the USA.

PROS

• Intelligent design that aligns with both Kershaw and Emerson's lineages.
• The blade, with stonewashed finish, cuts and punctures like a laser.
• The pocket clip is reversible for right- or left-side carry.

CONS

• It's advertised as having a recessed push button that's level with the handle, though a simple feel and visual test reveals that it's close, but not quite. Since it doesn't have a safety or a sheath, you'll have to be mindful of unintentional openings.