Pinning this for clarification: Before I posted this upload, I watched it and realized I may have unintentionally implied that OTF knives are better than any other type of manual knife in ANY scenario. This is definitely not the message I meant to convey. OTF knives are absolutely great for simple (and sometimes tactical) convenience, but for people who DO need specific blades for specific tasks, an OTF might not always be the best choice. They're also totally illegal in many places, and that's a gigantic point of consideration that I sort of just skimmed over. I should have elaborated more in the video. Sorry about that! (I still love ALL my manual knives, and they certainly have their place in my edc rotation!) 😁

@sprinkles2765

3 жыл бұрын

fyi this isn't pinned, although it is the second from the top comment

I didn't know Tom Hanks reviewed knives. :) nice video, though.

@brickbros-m41a

3 жыл бұрын

I kinda thought he sounded like hiccup from how to train your dragon

@bigjoe7594

3 жыл бұрын

Dude looks like Chris Pratt tho^

@OldSolidSnake

Жыл бұрын

Wait, what?

@chrischavira0707

11 ай бұрын

More like his son from orange county

The reason why i only carry otf is because of that convenience of truly one hand opening and closing with out adjusting my grip on the knife makes its so enjoyable to take out

I own a Ultra-tech, and just bought a Combat Troddon. I hate to admit it but, they are largely toys. Basically a $300 to $550 "Fidget spinners". But of course, I never miss an opportunity to use them legitimately when I can. But yeah... mostly a toy.

OTFs and all automatic knives are perfectly legal to own and carry in 39 states in the USA. Edit: Lightning's are made in Taiwan. Also zinc is stronger than aluminum.

I bought my first “fancy knife” in April, a Benchmade Shootout, and use it as my EDC. I initially didn’t want to like the tanto blade, as the knife I really wanted was the 940 auto. But I’ll be damned if I don’t absolutely love it after four months of use. It’s the perfect, convenient knife to use as an automotive tech always having dirty gloved hands. I don’t worry about griming up the handle, and it also makes a perfect fishing knife for clipping tag ends of line.

12:40-13:06 kinda funny knowing this happened to me VERY recently when I was carrying my paragon warlock.... went to flick it open and I pretty much threw it at my leg and that dagger blade pierced deep into my leg.... that was pretty scary knowing all the arteries that are in your legs

It's always been legal for Law Enforcement and EMTs to carry auto knives while on duty here in Texas. I'm so glad that a few years ago they legalized automatic knives and then they removed basically all knife laws from the Penal Code! No length requirements here in Texas, you can carry a sword if you want! Merica!!!!

I own a Microtech Scarab and an Ultratech, great knives, but the Lightning is a great otf, lasts a long time and can handle a beating I recommend checking one out

@Errcyco

2 жыл бұрын

I put Tuf-Glide on the blade and action in mine and it fires like a $200 OTF. The lightning elite is the best beginner/budget one by far. The AKC F20 is a close second.

Handled a utx85 and fell in love with otf’s, hellhound troodon is the definition of grail to me.

Really would like an OTF, definitaley work in some situations (like on antenna towers) where having a dual action OTF would be helpful. Seeing the MicroTech Ultratech featured in a video is part of what got me into knives again.

I appreciate when the people I am working around use otfs. Because they are so easy and quick to close, they are less likely to be waving around an open blade.

OTFs are fine for the lightest possible use case. In effect, as fun letter openers or to dazzle your friends with. How well they are constructed or how expensive they are only factors into personal pride of ownership and enjoyment of the action. In every single use case except the two listed above, there is simply a better tool for the job.

My personal draw to them is a switch operated otf design has less chance to fail than a side opener that can be derailed by ANYTHING in the arch it takes to open rendering it useless. The straight path is often the fastest

Ha it looks so funny with all of the OTF’s not fully deployed😂

@metal_complex

4 жыл бұрын

I knew someone would get a kick out of that lol

Nice review. Unlike some reviewers, you don't slam the Lighting just because it's not top line. Keep up the good work.

The knife that started it all for me was the Microtech Zombietech.

That troodon is also signature series so that makes it more also.

I've stabbed my Guardian Tactical into a log enough to go in about a 1/2" and the lock did not fail, still functions perfectly.

@travispratt6327

2 жыл бұрын

There’s demos of viper tec otfs stabbing into car trunks and posts without failing too, I think that’s one of the advantages of the better otfs.

I must be the only person that doesnt like double edged blades, even on an OTF. I love the Scarab and Recon 040 type S/E blades. But dang that Hellhound blade has really grown on me! Beautiful piece. I initially didnt like it. MTs stonewash is so nice too.

I have the Guardian Tactical Recon-035. The best bang for your buck.

Recently got a microtech ultratech and I love it. One that isn't mentioned is cobratec, and it's a great OTF knife for the price. Fit and finish is far below microtech, but the action is excellent and the blades are D2. Not bad for 80 bucks.

Are lightnings confirmed 440C and where is that info found? I've owned several, still have one and was on Grindworx today looking for one for Valentine's day for my lady and it still just says stainless. Hey they've always worked great for me either way so I don't much care but if there is a source for that info I'd be glad to add that to the collection stats! Another fine vid, cheers!

Thanks for the info I own lots of knives but still not an otf I just have never thought of the convenience of it I guess I may try one out for a while. I do have some autos I love

The Guardian Tactical Recon 040 is larger than the Combat Troodon now I believe

Otf knives are tools knives are tools before a weapon. That’s not to say a knife couldn’t be used as a self defense weapon. Especially an otf knife or any knife at that.

What’s your opinion about Ravencrest tactical for the OTF knives by the way I live in California so they have to be under 2 inches blade length to be legal

@metal_complex

4 жыл бұрын

My suggestion is, stay away from Ravencrest.

Great video. Very on point. In fact, almost all OTF knives are overpriced because if they price lower than Microtech they seem less legitimate. Even Microtech I don’t find particularly precision made compared to many high quality modern folders and materials are basic, often aluminum handles. They’re not all that complex or difficult to build (see the Lightning). It’s almost all marketing hype and perceived value driven by the mystique of the deployment method and the tacticoolness. By the way, if you run a light bead of oil on the internal springs of the Lightning, they will not ring at all and will sound just as good as an Ultratech. I know that will bum a lot of people out, but it’s true.

Here's where I'm interested in otfs. My muscle memory with my adamas over 2 years now I kinda feel like as far as it being a easy one handed operation and it's quick deployment with daily use I don't think otfs would be faster hence my user experience vs the otf action. To be fair!!! To be fair it does have a fidget/cool factor. However, deployment speed is vital in a life or death situation so that being said it all boils down to user experience and practice with good folders. They can be just as quick as an otf but the otf is more of a cheat code in a way so maybe in a way they can also be faster then folders with practice I suppose. On the fence with this one.

One hand (either hand) operation while wearing gloves.,.number one reason to EDC an OTF. Microtech Dirac Delta for me.

5:55 cough cough raven crest and cobra tech

@metal_complex

3 жыл бұрын

🤢🤮

@JDPyrotechnics

3 жыл бұрын

You mean rebranded DHgate knives

Double edge knives are very nice, you can just pop em open and cut without thinking about it, instead of fiddle and turn and make sure you’re holding it correctly ect.

Those Microtech knives are so durable as that is insane what they are capable of ..... Not a knife for me but I do love em.....Nice share.....Ray at Xring has an awesome channel.....Good stuff....

@luisthegoat3006

4 жыл бұрын

I love em just hate how once they get a little dirty in the inside they misfire. At least that's the luck I've had with 2 of em

@scottf.3808

4 жыл бұрын

@@luisthegoat3006 Luis....I hear ya as I would imagine in does not take much but once they are deployed they are tough....Good share....

@luisthegoat3006

4 жыл бұрын

@@scottf.3808 I didn't say they aren't durable, they are tanks! It's just I carry a knife for self-defense to so a misfire in a confrontational situation can go bad

@scottf.3808

4 жыл бұрын

@@luisthegoat3006 Sorry about myself misunderstanding and thanks for the clarification as I get it....

I’m surprised the Chinese aren’t more competitive in the OTF WORLD. They are basically kicking our arse, value wise, and in build quality in folding knives. I’m not at all familiar with what they are doing in the fixed blade market, but they have really improved their quality in folders, just in the last couple years.

@metal_complex

4 жыл бұрын

It's coming. 100% guarantee we see a rise this year

@mackhomie6

3 жыл бұрын

vespa is already doing it.

@Balithazzarr

Жыл бұрын

Cobra tech

@EroticOnion23

10 ай бұрын

If there's a buck to be made you can be sure the Chinese will soon have a hand in it...just like "those who must not be named"...😂

I feel like, if the jury heard that the blade shot out of the front of my knife, I'd be convicted.

So speaking of a double edged blade have you had a chance to handle the paragon warlock or phoenix?

Could you do a video of modern traditionals if you have many? Or smaller knives? Thanks MC.

Great video. I will be interested to see your review of the Recon-035.

I just can't stop watching your videos. You help me itching my itch :D living in Germany is pretty hard to get hands on stuff like that and carrying awesome blades ... psh little Para, now one needs to know ;)

Sadly my state doesn’t allow me to own one, it’s stupid. Guess I’ll stick with axis and liner locks, next best thing.

@butcheredalive

2 жыл бұрын

What state? VA just legalized open carry starting July 1

Holy shit I'm so happy you did that deployment test with the box!!! I just bought a bunch of otf knives (paid waaaaaay to much and I'm gonna get am ear full for it at some point lol) but I'm excited to get them but have also been kind of afraid to carry them as an edc because of accidental deployment. Even more excited to get them in now after seeing this!!!

Happy ur channels growing bud. Gonna pick me up one like 1 in the middle the specs anyway. Not that brand though

I'm not a big auto fan, but the ones I have liked, have all been side openers so far. Mostly because of the grip shape and blade geometry that can't be had with otf designs. That Infidel looks promising though. Good vid!

Hi there, great video as always. I'm just thinking about purchasing my first OTF and honestly Microtech and similar are just too expensive (even more in Czech Republic), but Lightning is too cheap and I'm used to certain quality with my knives. It's there anything in between ($150)? I saw few good reviews of Vespa ripper - do you know anything about this one?

@Pistolmike59

2 жыл бұрын

I would suggest you start with a Lightning elite as a first knife. Then work your way up. Look at Italian made AKC Knives. Their entry models F16, F20 are good knives. Moving to an AKC Evo is in the $120 range. The Evo is much heavier than their F16.

Thank you for the informative / comparative OTF video MC!! 😍

@metal_complex

4 жыл бұрын

😁👊

Ise this for my job and it's very very easy for me to deploy and put it back.

Enjoyed your video and yeah I made the same error if you want to call it that got my first OTF 13" it's an absolute monster which I'd never carry around although it would make for a good black jack as well must weigh a LB give or take not regretting my purchase but I'm going to have to think a bit smaller if I want to tote it with me but it's so cool

Great overview! I recently discovered Cobratec, made in USA, any chance of a review? They seem really well made.

@adriankalebra666

4 жыл бұрын

I have one the fsx large. Comparing it to a lightning or a atomic defender from grindworx its 100x better. Anyone who says it's the same as a 40 dollar knife on dhgate never handled one. They're made out of 6061 aluminum and have a D2 blade. They also have their company logo engraved all over the knife. Love it absolutely will buy another model soon

@mackhomie6

3 жыл бұрын

they aren't. they are one of several companies using Chinese parts and then rebranding them with their logo all over it. ravencrest is another. microtecy and guardian tactical are both giant steppps up in quality. blade play is a good indicator of overall quality.

@mackhomie6

3 жыл бұрын

I would recommend you look into 'vespa' knives, which can benfiund on dhgate, aliexpress and the like. comparable to the best american otfs and about half the price : )

Awesome video really like the otf knife collection👍

There are many great things about otf knives as there are about folders , fixed blades and switch blades ......its all subjective.

Metal, Do you know the Microtech Venom Tech? It was a Blade HQ exclusive, as I recall. I can send you pictures of mine if you are interested. A cool blade for sure, though not all that practical. Like all your work this episode was informative and thought provoking. Keep up the good work.

@metal_complex

4 жыл бұрын

Please do! metalcomplex87@gmail.com 😊👍

I was cringing so hard when he was talking about that guy pushing it into the table

@No1ANTAGON1ST

3 жыл бұрын

Right? Like how lol

They're extremely convenient and extremely cool. Plus they cut stuff.

I need to get combat T. Or Halo 6

I have been wanting to try an UTX 85 or a Guardian Tactical but can’t make up my mind 😩

@metal_complex

4 жыл бұрын

I have a vs video coming up 😉

Through A LOT of crazy bullshit getting around customs in my country I got a UTX-70 with a drop point blade. It came in parts and I had to put it all together once they all arrived. I love it, but I can never leave the house with it😆

MC great info. I love the passion.

Makora is the bigest dobbel acion otf knife

@metal_complex

2 жыл бұрын

But those aren't in production. I should have made that statement more clearly.

Automatic knives and balisongs are not legal to own in my state. People can still can get them pretty easily though, thanks to the flea markets. And most online knife dealers ship them to my state anyway.

Nice otfs😊

Wait,. You're in Kansas too!?

I have a few OTF and very happy with my Atomic Defender. Its a heavy duty which I like. Its heavy and requires strong thumbs to deploy the blade. I like that. If you drop it on your foot you might break your foot its so heavy. I like that. What I don't like is all these featherweight OTFs because they are pretty much worthless. Yet featherweight OTFs are popular and I don't know why? My Atomic Defender will not go off in my pocket either. The blade steel may be your more lower budget steel but I've had no problems with it so far. I plan on getting a Normandy Griffin OTF which is identical to my Atomic Defender but has D2 steel. Overall, I'm sold out to the Atomic Defender make and construction. I also like my OFT Italian Stiletto.

Thanks for the informative video !

How can I purchase these knives?

What kind of Mensa member thinks you close ANY knife by smashing the tip into the table? That’s very special.

Keep up the good work MC.

I have all those and the Guardian Tactical RECON-035 is the best bang for your buck. The lightning is a close second, but I am spoiled and don't like to have to sharpen my knife every couple of days.

im a lefty so its ideal for me, i love autos but they are all righty handed

Hey brother, I’m over in Denver and I’m legal to carry if it’s under 3 1/2 in blade but I’ve been looking at Viper Tech for my first OTF to see if I like them. Do you have any experience with Viper Tech?

@metal_complex

3 жыл бұрын

Skip them and save for a Microtech. They're basically just a cheap imitation of the real thing. I mean that genuinely. You'll be much happier with a Microtech 👍

@trober1104

3 жыл бұрын

@@metal_complex I figured but I felt like I should ask the question.

@metal_complex

3 жыл бұрын

Glad you did! 😁

I love that model microtech but Can't stand that glass breaker

The combat troadon is like the 4th biggest actually

@metal_complex

3 жыл бұрын

As far as DOUBLE action OTFs that are currently in production, the Recon 40 is a bit bigger... what else is there? The Halo and others like it are single action, so I wasn't comparing with those. Forgive me if I don't respond. Sometimes comments get buried and there have been a lot lately.

Just rewatched this rambly video, great stuff!

-04:23 extended family comment... 😂 It's unfortunate so many people think and act irrationally.

Great vid

My favourite current knifetuber

You owe Law Enforcement an apology. We have nothing to do with stupid Knife Laws. We could care less. Like Firearm Regulations, it's your Legislators wanting to see their name attached to a Bill. We all carry blades, and are just as irked not being able to carry the knife of our choice.

Lightning otf made in Taiwan not China right?

Fantastic video!!!

What about cobratec? I can get the large models for 46$

@metal_complex

2 жыл бұрын

I am not a fan of Cobratech's knives... or their deceptive marketing

@joebird383

2 жыл бұрын

@@metal_complex what is deceptive i am unaware. Just got back into knife

@joebird383

2 жыл бұрын

Collecting after 10 years off but i feel the stigma but see D2

Have you handled a Micrtech Halo?? Single action.

@metal_complex

4 жыл бұрын

Just once. Super cool. I'll try to get one on the channel soon 👍

@istricky

4 жыл бұрын

Also get your hands on the Heretic OTF

@eagletalon6240

4 жыл бұрын

My friend actually found a gen 1 halo single action and it's his new favorite knife it's so much fun to play with

I just got an Ultratech

I really want a Microtech but every time I save up the money, I end up buying a used handgun.

@metal_complex

Жыл бұрын

I do the exact opposite.

Great video

we call those people "NPC's" or Karens.

Knife laws are just plain dumb. Thank our lazy representatives that do nothing to change the ridiculous outdated laws.

LIGHTING

Ride the Lightning ⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡

Ahhh...maybe one day.

Guardian Tactical are definitely the best looking otfs just not a fan of double edges.

Lightning turned u on to otf's? XDXDXD

Way things are going thumb studs and flippers will be illegal. Laws don't have to make sense to pass.

@metal_complex

4 жыл бұрын

Maybe. Maybe not. If it's gonna happen, it'll be a while. Knife laws here in Kansas have actually gotten better over time. Same with lots of other states.

Greetings from Germany 😑

No offense, but ever since I bought a g and g deadlock all the others feel like crap.

@metal_complex

4 жыл бұрын

I would imagine. It'd be like going from a Mustang to a Lamborghini.

There are single action otf's that will penetrate material on the deployment and can injure people as I understand it MC. The double action ones don't possibly because of the mechanism of the double action itself or simply because they're modern designs and in the interest of avoiding legal and weapon accusations they choose not to but the ones that can just stab a person exist out in the world. I'm inclined to say OTF's don't need to exist because in my opinion they're marginally better at best in any real functional way than a normal folding knife or fixed blade but I wouldn't push for them being illegal because I don't think it matters but they're cool and they're fun to play with and that's cool too. But in fairness springs make scary sounds so I can see why people choose to ban them too shame I can't legally get one for fun/collecting but oh well.

@metal_complex

4 жыл бұрын

What you're referring to is a single action ballistic knife, which are designed to launch the blade completely out of the handle. Ya. Those will do it. But those are illegal everywhere, and strictly used by military as I understand it. As far as single action OTF knives that are available to the general public, they'll give you a little poke, and derail just like a double action OTF. Strongest spring out there is in the Halo 6, and those definitely derail.

@gnomersy1087

4 жыл бұрын

@@metal_complex No reason a ballistic knife design has to detach as far as I can tell but yes. On the other hand fundamentally there's not really a difference between the two in public perception or in the basic essence of being an "Out the front, automatic knife" when not used as a legal term and I don't think we should really expect there to be one. It's like how the Spyderco Smock is marketed as a compression lock like yes if you want to get into the fine details that's true but that's a button lock if you asked any random person after showing them how to close the knife and I wouldn't argue with them about it. But yeah.

@justinhorn2864

4 жыл бұрын

Stupid to ban something because it's scary that is stupid like the ar 15 . It's a semi auto rifle that all but because some one don't like it they don't want others to have one is liberal bull shit thinking. If some one doesn't like something don't buy it. Don't watch it. But these pussies think a opinion of 1 matters more than the group. Some one cries there offended and the world has to care no one died from being offended

@justinhorn2864

4 жыл бұрын

Halo 6 is the strongest no track just spring pressure and still not all that but I'd love to see the one you are talking about

@mackhomie6

3 жыл бұрын

@@gnomersy1087 his response to you was accurate.

banned here in our overrun country ,,why i dont know the scum use machetes

Thank you for pointing out where they are made. I would NEVER buy anything made in China. I will pay the extra money for made in USA knives with quality steel.

@airsoftluke17

2 жыл бұрын

Nah you are close minded man there are perfectly good knife brands like Civivi

Popular but expensive.