What is Best Assisted Opening Knives? 😉
Best Assisted Opening Knives refer to a category of folding knives that are designed with a built-in mechanism to assist in the deployment of the blade. These knives are equipped with a spring or torsion bar that aids in quickly and easily opening the blade with minimal effort. The assisted opening feature allows users to access the knife’s blade with just one hand, making it a popular choice for various applications.
People who might need or benefit from assisted opening knives include:
- 🏕️ For outdoor enthusiasts like hikers, campers, and hunters, a reliable and fast-opening knife is essential for tasks such as cutting rope, preparing food, or carving wood.
- 🚨 In emergency situations, paramedics, firefighters, and law enforcement officers may need quick access to their knives to cut seat belts, clothing, or other materials that can save lives or resolve incidents.
- 😎 Everyday carry (EDC) users often include a folding knife as a part of their gear for self-defense or utility purposes. Assisted opening knives offer the convenience of easy and rapid blade access when needed.
- 🏗️ Professionals in various industries, including construction, maintenance, and warehouse operations, require knives for cutting materials or opening packages. An assisted opening knife can improve efficiency and safety in performing these tasks.
Assisted opening knives are valued for their combination of convenience, speed, and safety. They provide users with an easily accessible and reliable tool that can be deployed quickly and efficiently for a variety of tasks.
Benefits 😎
- ✅ Assisted opening knives provide speedy and effortless deployment with just one hand, making them an ideal choice for situations where quick action is crucial, or the user’s other hand is occupied.
- ✅ These knives feature a dependable locking mechanism that reduces the risk of injury by preventing accidental closure during use. The assisted opening mechanism also ensures that users do not need to apply excessive force or use their fingers to open the blade, enhancing safety further.
- ✅ The range of sizes, shapes, and designs available for assisted opening knives makes them versatile and well-suited for a variety of tasks. They can be used for everyday carry, outdoor adventures, and professional use, among other applications.
- ✅ Many jurisdictions consider assisted opening knives to be legal to carry, making them a practical and convenient option for people who need a reliable knife for personal use.
- ✅ High-quality materials and expert craftsmanship are used to make the best-assisted opening knives, ensuring that they can withstand regular use and provide long-lasting service.
- ✅ Assisted opening knives are often designed with user comfort in mind, featuring ergonomic handles and easily accessible opening mechanisms that reduce hand strain and improve overall usability.
- ✅ The foldable design makes assisted opening knives compact and portable, enabling users to carry them in a pocket, bag, or sheath, ensuring that they are always within reach.
- ✅ Assisted opening knives provide a dependable and straightforward cutting tool that enhances personal safety and preparedness in various situations, from emergencies to everyday tasks.
Features 👌
- ☑️ High-quality blade material, such as stainless steel, high-carbon steel, or high-performance alloys.
- ☑️ A robust opening mechanism, such as a torsion bar or spring, ensures consistent and smooth blade deployment.
- ☑️ A secure locking system, like a liner lock, frame lock, or back lock, prevents accidental closure and reduces the risk of injury.
- ☑️ An ergonomic handle made of materials like G-10, aluminum, or carbon fiber, for comfort and control.
- ☑️ A sturdy pocket clip for secure attachment to pockets, belts, or bags, making it easily accessible and reducing the risk of loss.
- ☑️ Ambidextrous design to cater to both right and left-handed users.
- ☑️ Versatile blade designs, such as drop point, tanto, or partially serrated edges, are suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks and applications.
- ☑️ The ideal size and weight for user preferences and intended use.
- ☑️ A visually appealing design that reflects personal style or preferences.
- ☑️ Brand reputation for quality and durability, along with a good warranty for peace of mind and support in case of any issues with the knife.
Are Assisted-Opening Knives Legal Across The Board? 👮
👮 They are not universally legal across the board. Laws and regulations regarding knives, including assisted-opening knives, vary widely depending on the country, state, or jurisdiction. While assisted-opening knives are generally more widely accepted than switchblades due to the user initiation required to open the blade, they may still be subject to restrictions or outright bans in some areas.
⚖️ For example, some places may impose limitations on blade length, the specific opening mechanism, or the design and functionality of the knife. In certain jurisdictions, carrying an assisted-opening knife may be legal, while in others, it might be prohibited.
⚠️ Before purchasing or carrying an assisted-opening knife, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations in your area to ensure compliance. Legal restrictions can change over time, so keeping up to date with any changes in legislation is also crucial. If in doubt, consult local law enforcement or an attorney for guidance on the legality of assisted-opening knives in your jurisdiction.
Is An Assisted-Opening Knife Really A Switchblade? 😳
No, an assisted-opening knife is not the same as a switchblade, although they may seem similar in their quick-opening mechanisms. The key difference lies in the way each type of knife is opened.
Assisted-opening knives require some manual effort to open the blade. 👌 Typically, the user applies pressure to a thumb stud, flipper, or other protrusion on the blade, and then the spring-assisted mechanism takes over, completing the opening process. The user is essentially initiating the opening action, and the spring mechanism just aids in the process.
Switchblades, on the other hand, have a button or switch on the handle that, when pressed, releases a spring mechanism that automatically deploys the blade. No manual effort is required to open the blade, as the entire action is initiated by pressing the button or switch. ✅
TOP-20 Assisted Opening Knives 🔥
1# Smith and Wesson Otf Assist Knife
Extremely invisible and comfortable, the uniquely shaped blade is ideal for regular wear for self-defense or hunting. The blade automatically opens and has a small size, ergonomic compact design, making it easy to hide the knife if necessary. Reversible blade length — 3.6 inches.
It is quite enough for doing utility work or for personal pleasure. Get high quality, affordable addition to your hunting arsenal and carry the switchable automatic knife from the legendary Smith & Wesson with you at all times.
2# Benchmade Barrage Knife by Osborne Design
The newest folding knife with a stylish Tanto blade shape is a compact and efficient folding knife that will help you out in any situation. Constructed from high-quality 154cm steel, it is extremely sharp — especially for the 3.6” blade. It is perfect for almost all types of cutting at home and in the field, such as hunting.
This blade model allows you to open the blade as quickly as possible if necessary. Thanks to the patented locking mechanism, the knife is a spring system, easily activated by two fingers. The ergonomically designed knife handle greatly improves grip and provides unrivaled balance and precision in cutting in virtually any condition. Buy a blade at a reasonable price in our store and you will always be with the tools in case the hunting season starts.
3# Zero Tolerance Spring Assisted Folding Knife
Designed with a focus on quality and functionality, this exceptional knife is equipped with features that make it a dependable and durable companion for various tasks.
It features a 3.25-inch CPM 20CV stainless steel blade, known for its exceptional durability, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance. The non-reflective black tungsten DLC coating not only enhances the blade’s hardness but also reduces friction for smoother cutting performance. The drop point blade shape is versatile, making it suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks.
Comfort and a secure grip are ensured by the textured G10 handle scales and contoured handle design. The extra-heavy frame provides a secure blade lock-up during use, while the liner lock ensures safety and stability. The SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism, combined with the flipper, enables quick and easy one-handed blade deployment.
The quad-mount pocket clip allows for tip-up or tip-down, right or left-handed carry options, catering to individual preferences. Additionally, the knife features a lanyard hole for alternative carry or attachment options. Weighing in at 6.2 ounces, it is a solid and dependable choice for those who need a reliable folding knife.
4# SOG Aegis Assisted Open Folding Knife
The newest folding knife is a unique series of top-end knife models with the fastest opening from the SOG company. The extremely sharp and durable blade will be an indispensable tool in almost any situation. The blade length is only 3.5 inches, which is definitely enough for everyday needs, and even for hunting, this model knife will be extremely effective. These knives feature extremely durable and ergonomic glass fiber-reinforced nylon handles with a unique check pattern and additional friction rubber inserts.
These knives are just as effective in use as full-size hunting knives, but they outperform them due to their exceptional ergonomics, and practical compactness. To lock the blade, a double spring release mechanism SAT (SOG Assisted Technology) is used. The extremely fast release mechanism ensures safe and practical use even in unexpected situations.
5# Benchmade Freek, DR PT, AXS Assist
This exceptional knife combines two highly durable materials, G10 and CPM-M4 steel, to provide you with a robust and reliable cutting tool.
It features a 3.6-inch CPM-M4 steel blade with a coated finish, designed to withstand rigorous use and maintain its sharpness over time. The drop point blade shape offers versatility for a wide range of cutting tasks, while the plain edge caters to precise slicing and cutting needs.
Equipped with a gray and black layered G10 handle, this knife offers an excellent grip and a stylish appearance. The red G10 base layer and anodized aluminum barrel spacers add a pop of color, giving the knife an eye-catching look. With a closed length of 4.86 inches and an overall length of 8.46 inches, it is an ideal size for everyday carry.
Weighing in at just 3.72 ounces, this lightweight knife won’t weigh you down during your daily activities. It also features a reversible tip-up pocket clip for convenient and secure carry, as well as a lanyard hole for additional attachment options.
6# Kershaw Knives Volt II Knife
The newest model of a folding knife was developed by the leading professionals in the field of making edged weapons. Crafted in stainless steel with a textured black nylon scale filled with glass. It is thanks to such wide functionality and practicality that this knife model is extremely popular among fans of hunting or performing everyday tasks. Fans of practicality and compactness will definitely find this knife model an extremely high-quality purchase due to the unique sharpness of the product.
The classic shape is ideal for almost any general purpose. Partial serration of the blade enhances the performance of the specialized shot-blasting knife and makes it easy to pierce materials such as household rope, electrical cords, and cables. For a secure grip and a pleasant feel with regular use, this knife model is the perfect addition to your hunting arsenal.
7# Smith & Wesson Otf Assist
This innovative knife offers the convenience of an out-the-front (OTF) design with an assisted opening mechanism, ensuring rapid blade deployment when you need it most.
It features a 3.6-inch partially serrated spear point blade, crafted from durable AUS-8 stainless steel. This versatile blade shape is perfect for piercing and slicing tasks, while the 40% serration offers added functionality for cutting through tougher materials. With an overall length of 8.8 inches and a closed length of 5.5 inches, it is an ideal size for everyday carry and convenient storage.
The 5.5-inch aluminum handle offers a lightweight yet durable construction, ensuring a comfortable and secure grip during use. The sleek grey color adds a touch of sophistication to this high-performance cutting tool. The blade slider and assisted opening mechanism allows for easy one-handed operation, making it an invaluable tool for various tasks.
The included pocket clip ensures secure and accessible carry, so your knife is always within reach when you need it. Please note that this product is subject to California’s Proposition 65 warning.
8# Schrade Viper Otf Assisted Folding Knife
Carry this folding knife with you for self-defense, tactical operations, and everyday household chores. The Automated Assist Opening knives have been manufactured by a world-renowned manufacturer with a high-quality titanium nitride coating, incredibly reliable and resistant to wear and corrosion over time.
In addition, the extremely durable and lightweight aluminum handle significantly increases the overall durability of the knife, positively affecting long-term success in the field or at home. For your protection, the knives of this model have a fuse that prevents unintentional opening of the blade if necessary. Among other things, this tool is extremely compact, so you can incorporate it into your hunting gear without wasting your backpack space.
9# SOG Flash II Straight Edge Tanto Folding Knife
This knife model is distinguished by its sharp blade angles and practical shape that allows the product to be used in a wide variety of situations. Knives with a stylish Tanto shape blades are known for their strength and sharp edges. Blade length — 3.5 inches, made of high-quality AUS 8 stainless steel. Available in black or satin color, aesthetically pleasing to the slight curvature of the blade and the textured finish of the handle.
This knife features a highly textured glass fiber reinforced nylon handle for increased grip security. The handle has a built-in fuse that turns red when the product is secured. The company has manufactured this knife model following all the most relevant standards of the arms industry, due to which its design is uniquely durable and practical.
10# Tac Force Dragon Strike
This eye-catching folding knife showcases a fierce “Dragon Strike” blade etch, making it a standout addition to your collection.
This features a black-coated high carbon steel assisted opening blade, ensuring durability and edge retention. The false top edge, dual thumb studs, and extended tang enhance the knife’s versatility and ease of use. The assisted opening mechanism allows for quick and easy blade deployment, making it a reliable tool in time-sensitive situations.
Elevate your cutting experience with the stunning purple anodized aluminum handles, complemented by a blue overlay that features a laser-etched dragon cutout design. The vibrant colors and intricate design make this knife a true conversation piece. With a closed length of 3.75 inches, this folding knife is an ideal size for everyday carry and convenient storage.
Please note that this product is subject to California’s Proposition 65 warning.
11# Benchmade Mini-Barrage Folding Knife
The newest folding knife from the world’s most famous manufacturer will be extremely useful when performing daily tasks around the house and even when hunting. Thanks to its practical use and exceptional durability, its active use will be the best solution for you in almost any situation in the field or hunting.
The nimble little blade opens easily with Benchmade’s proprietary unfolding mechanism. Double-sided thumb pins are used to lock the blade – this guarantees convenient activation at any time required. The handle of the knife is extremely comfortable — the coating has an ergonomic texture and a contoured handle that fits comfortably in the hand and provides an extremely pleasant feeling when wearing and in daily use.
12# Kershaw Cryo Assisted Folding Knife
The popular Krio knife now comes with a gorgeous finish for a stylish look and a comfortable handle texture for regular wear. Like all knives in this series, it has unique strength and functionality for use in any situation. If you are a hunting lover or require a practical and compact tool for use in any situation — purchase this model at the most reasonable price and you will be surprised at the quality of the product.
To securely lock the blade up, the company equips the product with a specialized frame locking system with lock bar stabilization. For quick and easy opening with just one hand, the knife is equipped with the Kershaws SpeedSafe function, which is activated by a specially built-in flipper or finger. The deep carry clip also makes it an inconspicuous pocket companion.
13# Gerber Fast Folding Knife
The tactical knife of this model has been specially designed in such a way that employees of law enforcement or the armed forces receive a compact and practical knife for performing tactical tasks. The knife is made by experts in Gerber products and is constructed using specialized FAST technology, which provides a comfortable opening with just one hand thanks to the patented spring mechanism.
The knife handle is made of Zh-10 material, which provides an improved grip in any weather or field conditions. The tactical knife is made with a tanto-style blade for maximum practical use in any situation.
14# Kershaw Knives Blur Assisted Folding Knife
The newest folding knife from the world-renowned manufacturer is only 3.4 inches long and guarantees practical use for daily routine tasks around the house or hunting. It will be extremely useful in the field. Equipped with an additional auxiliary opening function for ergonomics and comfortable use in all conditions.
Constructed from high-quality Sandvik 14C28N steel and complemented by a 4 1/2” 6061-T6 anodized aluminum handle with custom track-tech inserts and carbide breaker pad. For exceptional ease of use, the product is complemented by double thumb pins and dedicated earmold locks, as well as a handy pocket nib clip.
15# Smith and Wesson Otf Assist Knife Optics Planet Spring Assisted Folding Knife
A versatile and reliable cutting tool designed for everyday carry enthusiasts.
It boasts a 7.50-inch overall length, making it an ideal size for various cutting tasks and convenient carry. The 3.25-inch blade, crafted from 3CR13 stainless steel, provides durability and edge retention, ensuring your knife is always ready for action.
Featuring a 4.25-inch injection molded ABS handle, this knife offers a comfortable and secure grip, allowing for optimal control during use. The lightweight and sturdy handle material ensures it remains a reliable companion for your everyday carry needs.
One of the standout features is the spring-assisted mechanism, which allows for quick and easy blade deployment, making it an invaluable tool in time-sensitive situations. The included pocket clip ensures secure and accessible carry, so it is always within reach when you need it.
16# Kershaw Cryo II Folding Knife
The latest model of folding knives guarantees practical use in any field conditions and situation due to the unique design ergonomics. Thanks to such a practical design, it provides additional protection for the metal and hides any additional scratches. This knife model is the result of the efforts of the design engineers at Kershaw and Rick Hinderer.
This version of the knife is equipped with a highly efficient SpeedSafe opening function for smooth and easy opening with just one hand. Access is via a built-in flipper or finger — access the blade anytime you like with just one simple tap. High-strength stainless steel handle with a sturdy frame lock for the ultimate in holding the blade open during active use. Additionally, the product is equipped with a four-position clamp.
17# Benchmade Vector Axis Folding Knife
A sleek and innovative cutting tool designed for everyday carry enthusiasts who value style and performance. This folding knife features a unique combination of G10 handle material, stainless liners, and expressive styling, taking the AXIS Assist flipper to new heights.
It boasts a 3.6-inch CPM-S30V steel blade, known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. The satin finish adds a touch of elegance to the blade, while the spear point shape delivers versatility and precision for various cutting tasks. With a plain edge, this knife caters to clean and accurate slicing.
Featuring a black contoured G10 handle, the knife provides a comfortable and secure grip, ensuring optimal control during use. The stainless liners enhance the knife’s durability, making it a reliable companion for your everyday carry needs. With a closed length of 4.82 inches, this folding knife is an ideal size for convenient carry and storage.
Designed for everyday carry and folding blade applications, it offers a perfect blend of style and functionality. Whether you need a reliable cutting tool for daily tasks or a versatile option for your outdoor adventures, it is a top choice for discerning users who appreciate quality and performance.
18# Kershaw Leek Blackwash Folding Knife
This exceptional folding knife combines innovative Composite Blade Technology with a well-loved, well-worn appearance reminiscent of your favorite pair of jeans.
It features a unique composite blade that brings together two types of steel for an unbeatable edge. The cutting edge is made of high-carbon, high-chromium D2 steel, designed to take and hold an incredible edge. The spine of the blade is crafted from high-performance 14C28N stainless steel, offering durability and strength.
The Blackwash finish on both the blade and handle not only provides a rugged, well-used appearance but also helps hide used scratches, maintaining the knife’s aesthetic appeal over time.
With a 3-inch blade length and a closed length of 4 inches, this folding knife is perfect for everyday carry and detailed work capabilities. The modified drop-point blade shape features a slim tip, allowing for precision and versatility in various cutting tasks.
The stainless steel handle of the Kershaw Leek is contoured for comfort, ensuring a secure grip during use. The SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism, combined with a convenient flipper, allows for quick and easy blade deployment. To keep the blade securely closed when not in use, the knife features a Tip-Lock system.
It also includes a reversible pocket clip (right tip-up, left tip-down) for convenient carry options and a lanyard hole for additional attachment possibilities.
19# Tac Force TF-1015 3,75″ Spring Assisted Knife
Designed as the ultimate hunter’s practical tool, this knife is the perfect addition to your equipment. The ergonomic design and the high-strength 3.75-inch blade with a spring mechanism ensure the highest quality product. Made according to the project of the best experts in the field of manufacturing edged weapons, this knife will be an excellent companion on long hunting trips and tactical operations. The handle of the TAC Force TF-1015 knife with a patented spring mechanism provides a reliable grip, so necessary in tense conditions of combat.
20# Mtech MT-A1123R 3.5″ Spring Assisted Knife
The latest model of spring knife from the world’s most famous manufacturer is specially designed as an ideal addition to the equipment of a hunter or a tactical officer. The opening and closing of the blade can be controlled with just one hand.
Manufactured using high-quality components to achieve exceptional quality, sharpness, and durability in all tactical or weather conditions. Even an extremely aggressive chemical environment will not cause the blade to corrode – its post-processing with the use of leading engineering technologies guarantees resistance to any mechanical and chemical stress.
How Do Assisted-Opening Knives Work? ⚙️
They work by using a spring mechanism that helps to deploy the blade quickly once the user initiates the opening process. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown 🚶 of how an assisted-opening knife works:
- 🔶 When the knife is in its closed position, the blade is folded within the handle, and the spring mechanism is in a compressed state, storing potential energy.
- 🔶 To open the knife, the user applies pressure to a thumb stud, flipper, or other protrusion on the blade. This manual effort is necessary to partially open the blade and overcome the resistance of the spring mechanism.
- 🔶 Once the blade has been moved past a certain point (usually around 20-30% of the opening arc), the spring mechanism’s stored energy is released, quickly deploying the blade to its fully open position.
- 🔶 Once the blade is fully open, a locking mechanism, such as a liner lock, frame lock, or another locking type, engages to hold the blade securely in place, preventing it from accidentally closing during use.
- 🔶 To close the knife, the user disengages the locking mechanism and manually folds the blade back into the handle. As the blade is folded, the spring mechanism is compressed again, storing energy for the next opening action.
These knives provide a balance between manual and automatic knives, offering quick blade deployment while still requiring user initiation. This combination often makes them more widely accepted and legal in more jurisdictions compared to switchblades.
FAQ 📚
Conclusion 😀
Quality folding knives offer exceptional functionality when used on the hunt or to equip law enforcement or tactical teams. Thanks to the emphasis of modern manufacturers on knives for concealed carry, the maximum ergonomics and practicality of using products in everyday life, on hunting, intense conditions of combat, is achieved. In some situations, folding knives are simply irreplaceable.
Our article lists some of the most popular and practical pieces with enviable attention to detail and high-quality finishes. If you are looking for a folding hunting knife, the ideal choice is models #1, #7, #10. The most versatile models are #9 and #12. The most suitable models for use by law enforcement and military personnel are #5 and #8.
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I’ve been using the CRKT M16 for years and it’s been great for both everyday use and outdoor activities. The ergonomics and build quality are impressive. I’ve been considering trying a new assisted opening knife though, which of the knives mentioned in the article would you say has the fastest opening mechanism?
😉 If you’re looking for the fastest opening mechanism, the Kershaw Blur S30V with the SpeedSafe assisted opening system might be a good choice.
The torsion bar in the SpeedSafe system ensures a quick and smooth opening, making it a strong contender for the fastest opening mechanism among the knives mentioned in the article. 🏍️
I work in construction and have used the SOG Flash II for daily tasks. It’s durable, easy to open with one hand, and the blade stays sharp for a long time. Highly recommended for anyone needing a reliable utility knife.
The Spyderco Para 3 is my go-to knife for all my outdoor activities. The compression lock makes it easy to use and the sharp blade has never failed me. Great choice including it in your list!
I’ve had the pleasure of using the Gerber Covert FAST for a while now, and it’s never let me down. The build quality is exceptional. However, I’m curious to know if there are any legal restrictions around carrying assisted opening knives in certain states or countries?
👮Legal restrictions on carrying assisted opening knives vary depending on the jurisdiction. In the United States, some states may have specific regulations, so it’s essential to research local laws.
🗺️Internationally, regulations can vary widely, so it’s crucial to be aware of the laws in any country you plan to visit with an assisted opening knife.
I’m new to assisted opening knives and your article was very informative. Can you explain how the SpeedSafe assisted opening system works in more detail?
✅The SpeedSafe assisted opening system is a patented mechanism developed by Kershaw. It utilizes a torsion bar to apply force to the blade when it’s closed.
☑️When you apply pressure to the thumb stud or flipper, the torsion bar helps the blade to open smoothly and quickly. Once the blade is fully open, the torsion bar holds it securely in place.
I’ve used the Kershaw Blur S30V during my camping trips and it’s been really helpful. The textured handle provides a secure grip, and the assisted opening mechanism is smooth.
I’ve been collecting assisted opening knives for years and I must say, your selection is spot on! I’ve personally used the Benchmade Barrage and found it to be a reliable and sturdy option.
Great article, thanks for the information! I have a question though – what would you consider the best assisted opening knife for self-defense purposes?
✅For self-defense purposes, the Benchmade Barrage might be a suitable option, as it features a strong and durable build, a quickly assisted opening mechanism, and a reliable locking system.
⚠️However, remember that local laws and regulations should be considered before carrying any knife for self-defense.