As U.S. states relax automatic knife restrictions, new models hitting the scene focus on converting collectors and enthusiasts into fans.
Bear OPS AC-325 Bold Action III
This California-compliant automatic predictably sports a blade under 2 inches, but surprisingly packs loads of character into a small package.
- Blade Material: Sandvik 14C28N
- Handle Material: Black Aluminum
- Rockwell: 58-60
- Closed Length: 2-13/16″
- Edge: 1-7/8″
- Weight: 1.5 oz.
- MSRP: $122
Pro-Tech Model 752 (Chris Kyle)
Pro-Tech’s new Chris Kyle Frog Collection is anchored by the Model 752, a spin on the Godson Tuxedo. The Chris Kyle “Legend” logo is lasered into the ivory Micarta inlays. Proceeds benefit the Chris Kyle Frog Foundation.
- Blade: 154CM
- Blade length: 3.15″
- Blade thickness: .110″
- Hardness: 59RC
- Overall Length: 7.56″
- Closed Length: 4.41″
- Weight: 3.2 ounces
- MSRP: $350
SOG-TAC California Special
Stubby blades designed for the Golden State may also hold appeal for those elsewhere. That seems to be the thinking behind SOG’s discreet California Special, which could be described as an entry model for new collectors.
- Blade steel: AUS-8
- Blade length: 1.9”
- Blade thickness: 0.10”
- Closed length: 3.90″
- Hardness: 57-58
- Handle: aluminum
- MSRP: $134
Gerber Empower Series
This series won’t hit shelves until May 1, but it’s worth keeping an eye out. This USA-made auto is slated to retail for $125.
Final specs aren’t available yet, but the series will offer S30V blades and four style options.
Benchmade Coalition® Family
The models in this series (or family) aren’t necessarily distinct variants. Instead, buyers can choose from plain or serrated edges, and satin or coated finishes. That makes for four possible combinations for this EDC auto.
- Blade Steel: CPM-S30V (58-60 HRC)
- Blade Length: 2.87″ (7.29cm)
- Blade Thickness: 0.100″ (2.49mm)
- Open Length: 6.78″ (17.22cm)
- Closed Length: 3.91″ (9.93cm)
- Handle Thickness: 0.53″ (13.462mm)
- Weight: 2.63oz. (74.56g)
- Handle Material: 6061-T6 Billet Aluminum
- MSRP: $250
Subscribe to BLADE Magazine
If you made it this far down in an article about automatic knives, it’s time you took the leap and subscribed to BLADE magazine.
NEXT STEP: Download Your Free KNIFE GUIDE Issue of BLADE Magazine
BLADE’s annual Knife Guide Issue features the newest knives and sharpeners, plus knife and axe reviews, knife sheaths, kit knives and a Knife Industry Directory.Get your FREE digital PDF instant download of the annual Knife Guide. No, really! We will email it to you right now when you subscribe to the BLADE email newsletter.
