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An OTF knife means “Out-The-Front,” which is a perfect description of what exactly these knives are. There is also another type called ‘Folding-Half,’ where the blades are foldable and fit in a pocket, but it differs from OTF.
The folding knife works in such a way that when you want to cut something at that time, it opens up with the use of an automatic mechanism, and then when you are done cutting, it automatically closes.
At A Glance: Our Top 5 Picks For OTF Knife in 2024
- Best Budget: Benchmade Infidel D/E Dagger
- Best Utility: Kershaw Kapsule
- Best Overall: Microtech Ultratech
- Most Lightweight: Hogue Knives
- Best Quality: Schrade Viper OTF
When we think of purchasing something, everything has a purpose to it. Similar is the case of the knife. When you think of purchasing a knife, you should have the purpose that why you need the knife and what exactly you want to use a knife for. Because there are multiple knife varieties, and if you are thinking of buying an OTF knife, you need to think again which one?
Since we have already discussed the price, benefits, features, types, and functions, let’s talk more in detail about each type of OTF Knives.
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
Best Budget  | Benchmade Infidel D/E Dagger
| VIEW ON BlADEHQ → |
Best Utility  | Kershaw Kapsule
| VIEW ON AMAZON → |
Best Overall  | Microtech Ultratech
| VIEW ON BLADEHQ → |
Most Lightweight  | Hogue Knives Compound OTF Automatic Knife
| VIEW ON BLADEHQ → |
Best Quality  | Schrade Viper OTF
| VIEW ON BLADEHQ → |
9 Best OTF Knives 2024
OTF knives are quite useful for self-defense because they remain in the pocket and can be used only when needed. Microtech Ultratech is one of the best OTF knives in today’s date out of all we discussed above.
It has a sharp blade that can be sharpened out of the box. In addition, the blade has various ranges so that the knife becomes quite versatile. Though it’s the best choice for OTF knives buyers, we will talk more about other OTF knives in detail in this blog.
We can assure you that you will get the perfect guide in this blog to get the perfect OTF knife you have been looking for all these days.
1. Microtech Ultratech (Best Overall)
Microtech is one of my favorite blade manufacturers around right now, and the Ultratech is one of my favorite products from Microtech.
This exceptional OTF knife blends high-quality materials, precision craftsmanship, and innovative design into a compact yet powerful cutting tool. The deployment mechanism is incredibly fast, and the entire knife is robustly constructed.
You can get this knife in a few different versions made from different materials, but most (including the one above) have an aluminum body, which provides a lot of durability without adding too much weight. And at less than 3.5 ounces, it really is lightweight.
The steel dagger-style blade is very versatile, and the knife also features a glass breaker on the rear for added utility.
Pros
- Rapid deployment
- Excellent build quality
- Available in several different styles
- Compact size
- Great ergonomics
Cons
- Higher price point
- Limited edge length
2. Benchmade Infidel D/E Dagger OTF Automatic Knife
Benchmade has a great reputation among blade enthusiasts and the Infidel is no exception. This dagger-style OTF knife is a perfect example of why Benchmade is so beloved.
Benchmade designed the Infidel with a focus on tactical versatility and incorporating the latest technology. The dual-edge dagger blade is great for both piercing and slicing, making the Infidel and very versatile, utilitarian knife. It’s also just incredibly nice looking.
And speaking of looks, like a lot of the other knives on this list, the Infidel comes in a few different versions (even a mini) with different materials and finishes. The one I linked above is my personal favorite, with a beautiful black-on-black design, with a black aluminum handle and a black D2 steel blade.
Whichever model you go with, the automatic out-the-front mechanism ensures swift and effortless deployment. The handle is also nicely textured, helping it stay firmly in place in your hand.
Pros
- Dual-edge dagger blade
- Quality construction
- Versatile design
- Ergonomic handle
Cons
- Higher price point
- Double-edged design requires extra maintenance
3. Hogue Knives Compound OTF Automatic Knife
Looking for a Tanto-style blade rather than a spear blade? Then the Hogue Compound OTF knife might be just what you want! Like Benchmade and Microtech, Hogue is well known for their high-quality blades and this is just one more example of how well-earned that reputation is.
The attention to detail on this knife is amazing. Particularly noteworthy is the distinctive ergonomic design. The handle is nicely contoured and textured. It fits naturally in your hand, stays in place, and gives you a lot of control during use.
The Tanto-style blade is a little unusual for an OTF knife, but it makes the Hogues Compound great for everyday tasks, plus the aluminum handle and steel blade make the Compound quite durable. These features combine to make an excellent EDC OTF knife.
The deployment mechanism is smooth, reliable, and easy to use. Meanwhile, the reversible pocket clip gives you ambidextrous carry options.
Pros
- Ergonomic handle design
- Smooth deployment
- Reversible pocket clip for ambidextrous carry
- Durable construction
- Versatile design
Cons
- Limited range of blade styles
- Higher price point
4. Piranha Rated-R D/A OTF Automatic Knife
Piranha actually specializes in OTF knives, and the P19 is a perfect OTF unit. It’s built in the USA, and the knife is very lightweight yet solid, durable, and uses professional-grade material.
The blade measures around 3.44 inches in length and has a perfect mirror finish. The finish never goes away, however often you use it.
The handle is symmetrical and made of aircraft-grade aluminum. However, it has a rugged profile, so it never slips out of hand. It also has a titanium belt clip.
Pros
- Clip point blade
- Gorgeous polished finish on the blade
- Black finish on the aluminum handle
- Double action OTF
- Available in lots of handle and blade finish combinations
Cons
- Some people may prefer a more traditional spear blade
5. Schrade Viper OTF
Schrade Viper is a great option for those looking for an affordable, entry-level OTF knife. The design is very sleek and steady, and the blade is good. It feels solid when you hold the knife, but it is also light.
The lock, which is easy to use, is at the backside of the knife. The switch is small and unobtrusive, but still large enough to easily and reliably deploy the blade. Both the blade and handle are black, and it looks great!
The blade is perfectly sharp, and when it is used for cutting, it is done in virtually no time at all. Moreover, it has a good quality blade that won’t rust or corrode.
Pros
- Versatile blade
- Compact size
- Convenient safety mechanism
Cons
- Some users report inconsistent quality control
6. Microtech Exocet
We’ve already talked about how great Microtech is, so we won’t waste time rehashing all of that. Let’s just dive right into the details of the Exocet. It has an automatic double action, and this knife is legal in California. The blade deploys more quickly and easily than almost any Microtech OTF.
The alloy is such that it includes copper and brass. The weight of this knife is 3.5oz.
The blade is made of good-quality steel, and the handle is aluminum. This steel has good edge retention, high wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. In short, this EDC knife is designed to use and has most versatile to help in various tasks.
Pros
- Compact size
- Versatile blade
- Pocket clip
- Quality construction
- Utilitarian design
Cons
- Shorter blade
- Best for light-duty
7. Kershaw Kapsule
This super combat, super small, push-button EDC knife is the idea of Jens Anso, which is very easy to carry and cut. It opens with a sliding mechanism and uses a button lock.
This steel is well-known for its wear and resistance, corrosion-free, good sharpness, and good edge retention.
It is very light in weight and has a PVD coating that looks very visually appealing.
The butt end has deep carry, is removable, and has a single-position clip that is very easy to carry. Overall, this small Kershaw knife offers incredible utility.
Pros
- Compact size
- Versatile applications
- Good value
- Durable construction
Cons
- The locking mechanism can be a little clumsy
8. Guardian Tactical RECON-035 D/A OTF Automatic Knife
The thumb slide design is set apart from the aluminum handle by a steel plate and three ceramic balls. You heard that right—say goodbye to the annoying friction that used to mess with your blade and button. They even threw in an innovative locking mechanism that sits off to the side of the blade channel, so it doesn’t mess with your opening and closing moves.
But that’s not all—the anodized aluminum handle is both compact and lightweight. Perfect for everyday carry that doesn’t weigh you down. This OTF knife also comes with a stainless steel pocket clip that keeps your knife secure and ready for action, tip-down style.
If you’re ready to take your OTF game to a whole new level, the Guardian Tactical RECON-035 is waiting for you.
Pros
- Dual-action mechanism
- Smooth deployment
- Ergonomic design
- Quality construction
- Suitable for both tactical and everyday applications
Cons
- Higher price point
- Complex mechanism may require a learning curve
9. Piranha Tactical Excalibur OTF Knife
Finally, we have the Piranha Tactical Excalibur OTF Knife. As we mentioned above, Piranha specializes in OTF knives, and the Excalibur is another example of how well that specialization pays off in terms of producing high-quality knives.
First of all, the tactical black finished aluminum handle is rugged and lightweight, and nicely matches the black DLC finish on the stainless steel blade. Textured ridges on the handle provide a secure, ergonomic grip. The action is rock-solid and dependable.
So, if you’re hunting for your next go-to everyday carry (EDC) buddy, look no further than the Piranha Excalibur.
Pros
- Compact design
- Swift deployment
- Tanto blade profile
- Quality steel
- Secure grip
Cons
- Higher price point
Buying Guide: How to Choose an Out-The Front Knife?
Let’s dig deep into OTF knives, how and what exactly they are, their features, and if you are thinking about purchasing them, then which points should you keep in mind.
Price:
When people think about purchasing any knife, their second most important focus comes to price, after the product specs. Price range is a key here, especially when it comes to OTF knives, as the internal system of OTF knives is too complex. For safety, we need to make sure that the knife is good quality, the mechanism is sturdy, perfectly sound, and can be trusted easily.
Related Article: 13 Types of Knife Locking Mechanisms Explained (with Pictures)
OTF knives are very much focused on the pricier style spectrum, so you have to be careful with your purchase if your budget is under $150 or less. The reason is that they are dangerous and useless too if the blade or mechanism is not proper. Lowering the budget does not imply bad quality, but you have to keep these factors in mind before deciding.
Mechanism:
There are two most important things regarding the deployment of blades:
First, whether the knives have a double mechanism system in them or not. Generally, in a double mechanism, the button or slider is placed inside the corner; when pressed, the knife opens up, and the blade comes out. Once you are done using it, retract the blades. Though it has nothing to do with OTF knives, this double mechanism should be taken care of for sure.
Second, you need to see exactly where the button or slider is placed, just for personal preference, because in some knives, you can manually close the knife once you are done using the blades. But, the major OTF knife has a spine-mounted slider.
Edge Type:
The third factor is the type of Edge you want in your knife. In the case of OTF knives, you can have two choices: Single-edged or double-edged. Single-edged OTF knives are widely used in EDC, where the user can place pressure on the thumb of the blade and then cut it out. This is used majorly in utilitarian cutting tasks. And, when it comes to Double-edged knives, they are basically used in fighting and combat fights and self-defense.
There are multiple varieties of OTF knives that are present in the market. It’s all about the purpose for which you are purchasing the knife:
- Some knives range to handle under $150, including Viper Tech knife, RQ double action knife, Viper Tech Zedd knife, etc.
- Then comes OTF knives with hefty price tags in that Benchmade infidel, Microtech Ultratech, etc., knives are listed down in hefty price tags.
- Knives like best-assisted opening OTF knives in that Smith & Wesson SWOTF9B – Cheap Single Action OTF.
- Microtech Exotech and Kershaw Kapsule are cheap manual opening knives best in a mini version.
- And then there comes the last and the best OTF knives with Karambit design.
- The Hendrix Gear Karambit OTF knife overall comes in this category too.
When you think about the reason to purchase an OTF knife over a standard knife, the benefits are immense. First, it shows your requirement is clear, and quality is non-negotiable. Though people say that durability of OTF knives is less than the standard knives, it depends on the quality and type of knife. The best benefit about pocket-size knives is that they would last longer, as they don’t come into direct contact with water or anything which attracts rust or corrosion.
As discussed earlier, Microtech Ultratech is one of the best OTF knives. However, we have listed down the different knives used for different purposes and according to the price range if you are not thinking about not going to buy too many costly knives.
Related Article: 10 Best Budget Bushcraft Knives
If you want to go in the low range and lightweight, then you should go for Viper Tec Ghost, which ranges below $150 and is perfect for hunting and everything. Also, the piranha is one of the best knives, which is very sleek, and also, it is small in size and too sharp for the blade.
If you want to invest more than Microtech Ultratech is the best choice for the higher range, and also it is one of the best knives, as we have discussed before. It serves all the purpose and the blades, design, sharpness everything is perfect and well managed.
Then came karambit and many more varieties in OTF knives. Now again, the question is, what is your purpose. Is it for self-defense? Is it for hunting? Or just you like to keep a knife with you. If you have a limited budget, then go according to that. So, solve your purpose, and then you can go for it. Also, it is not advisable to keep a knife until and unless you need one. So, you have to be very careful when carrying a knife.
Frequently Asked Questions:
OTF knife simply means out-the-front knife. It is like the deployment of blades. It is like blades come out from the front and then retract. A major difference between OTF knives compared to standard switchable is they come out from the slide while it comes out from the front.
Regarding legalities, OTF knives are switchable knives and sliders, so the same rules and regulations are used as standard knives. However, in the United States, only six states allow knives to be used legally. Also, some have restrictions regarding the sizes of blades as well.
Also, there are many places where manual knives are allowed to carry, but when it comes to automatic knives, they aren’t allowed to carry them because they think of them as a weapon. So, if you are thinking of carrying an OTF knife, you should be very much aware of the legal formalities and how the laws allow you to carry it or not.
If you are not aware of the rules where you can carry an automatic knife and where to carry a manual knife, please have a look at the rule once because if you are confiscated with the knife, then there is the possibility that you can be heavily fined, jail or anything depending upon the situation.
Final Verdict
After discussing all the types, varieties, prices, and mechanisms of an OTF knife, we are clear that it depends upon personal choice what the purpose of buying the knife is. Also, the price matters a lot when trying to buy a knife and the quality.
Also, if you are a fan of the knife, go for Microtech Ultratech because it is one of the best and most used OTF knives. It has all the features, design, mechanism, sleekness, and we can’t resist buying one of these knives.
Also, if we consider the karambit knife, it is one of the best knives in their range. They have different ranges starting from Kershaw capsule and Hendrix gear karambit, which is lightweight, good quality, and just four ounces like nothing. It is shaped like a curve, so it has curvature like a knife, and it can be used in self-defense. Also, the retention ring. They also have a good deployment, and also their retraction is good.
We hope you are clear about all the varieties and types of OTF knives. Also, we advise you to carry knives as and when needed, and please don’t spread any violence or carry a knife to harm anyone.
