Essential Facts to Know before Purchasing an OTF Automatic Knife
Posted by SwordsSwords on Jun 12th 2020
The one thing you must understand before buying an OTF Automatic knife is that there is no magic formula. One size definitely doesn’t fit all. Even the pros have to go through multiple trials before figuring out their optimal fit for an OTF Automatic knife. The main reasons for this are the versatility of blades types, shapes, handle specs, knife sizes as well as options among single action and dual action OTFs.
OTF Automatic Knife is the showstoppers in every EDC and survival kit. The prompt support and unflappable durability of these blades is the ultimate decider in the field. Despite having smaller blades and flimsier aesthetics, these tools stand up to almost every flora and fauna in nature. The self-defense techniques practiced on these blades also yield magnificent results. Due to all these factors and many more, an OTF Automatic Knife is a must-have for every arsenal. You can check out our list of top must-have OTF automatic knives.
There are multiple things to consider before you decide to buy the OTF for your needs. You don’t need to replace your blades repeatedly until you find the correct ones. However, some consideration is still required to make an informed choice. For instance, different professionals prefer a specific OTF variant. These professions are craftsmen, whittlers, fishermen, survivalists, law enforcement, and search-and-rescue squads. The preferred type of OTF are directly related to the responsibilities of these professionals.
Checklist before Buying the OTF Automatic Knife
Before you invest in the most attractive blade, stop for a moment and consider the points on this checklist.- Your needs determine the requirements. Be very critical and list down all the actions for which you need the OTF. It can be everything from house chores to self-defense. This is an important step because it narrows down your options to a few blades. Hunters and Fishers need specialized OTF blades for filleting, de-boning, or slaughtering.
- Consider your already-existing blade cache. While the OTFs have versatile uses and multiple features, you might still need a Bowie or a kukri dagger for certain functions. Also, note down the blade point types you already possess. This way, it is possible to opt for a blade tip that you don’t have already to round off your knife selection.
- Read the product catalog thoroughly and do ample research on the internet. The specifications of the blade can be a deciding factor in your ultimate choice. Be sure to match the measurements of the handle and the blade according to your dominant hand. This will ensure ease of use and economy of motion. Too small or extra-large blades can cause fatigue and limit mobility due to discomfort.
- The thickness of the blade is also paramount in determining the functions it will perform. If you use an extra-thick blade to whittle or carve fish, you might end up ruining the whole piece on account of chopped, heavy motions. Similarly, thin blades will not hold up to hefty slaughtering and hunting tasks. Such blades usually snap under pressure and end up injuring the user.
How to Pick the Proper Design
As far as the designs are concerned, the OTF Automatic Knife seems to have a monopoly on the sleekest and economic blueprint out of all the pocket knives. There are not many people who can deny their longing for an OTF after witnessing it in action. To select the right OTF, you need to consider the various aesthetic and functional aspects as well.Blade Materials
Just as the thickness of the blade is significant for the correct choice, the blade materials matter a lot as well. The right material for your ultimate OTF must have the following qualities:- Durability
- Sturdiness
- Resistance to moisture and water
- Resistance to wear and tear
- Strain resistance
- Retention of edges and sharp points
- A dependable glass breaker
- Ease of maintenance and sharpening
- Readily available supplies and substitutes
- Practicality in modern uses
- Aversion to rust