All About Pocket Knives

Being a certified knife knut it was only a matter of time before I had to try an OTF knife. I have learned not to jump in the deep end of the pool (dollar wise) when trying a new pattern. So, after reading and watching as much as I could find on an inexpensive version, I settled on a Lightning. A few observations. The opening and closing feels smooth enough to me. Nice and crisp. There is a bit of blade play. But even for someone who despises it, it is not too bad. I don’t see myself carrying it every day but it will be useful around the house and it will reside in my pack. Pleasantly surprised.

Thanks for the review, I too have been wanting one but I’m not willing to shell out Microtec or Benchmade money. I’ve handled both of the higher price ones and no really noticeable play in the blade but too much money for me.

Been looking at them quite regularly myself, as I want to try an OTF as a work knife, but am not shelling out Microtech money-- $150 for a used one of questionable authenticity, or $300 for a new one from a dealer.

I also see, that unlike Microtech, the thing is assembled with Torx, meaning stripping it down for maintenance will be easy.

Almost all OTF's except for the ultra-expensive models have a little blade play.
Probably had to trade some tolerance for value.
I don't know how reliable they would be as work knives, considering the blade will likely collapse under very little pressure.
Best of luck!

Madmarco wrote: ↑Sat Feb 03, 2024 10:00 pm Almost all OTF's except for the ultra-expensive models have a little blade play.
Probably had to trade some tolerance for value.
I don't know how reliable they would be as work knives, considering the blade will likely collapse under very little pressure.
Best of luck!

I was expecting more blade play based on what I’ve read, so the little it has is acceptable. None of my knives, whether fixed, well made folders or inexpensive users get used hard. I like to joke the hardest use is on extra chunky peanut butter. I expect for the cost it will be a good ROI.

My Lightning OTFs have minimal blade play, but sometimes they don't lock open prompting me to shake it downward like a gravity knife to get it locked up. For $30 I can't complain.

Mine locks up tight as well.

joeradza wrote: ↑Sat Feb 03, 2024 11:08 pm

Madmarco wrote: ↑Sat Feb 03, 2024 10:00 pm Almost all OTF's except for the ultra-expensive models have a little blade play.
Probably had to trade some tolerance for value.
I don't know how reliable they would be as work knives, considering the blade will likely collapse under very little pressure.
Best of luck!

I was expecting more blade play based on what I’ve read, so the little it has is acceptable. None of my knives, whether fixed, well made folders or inexpensive users get used hard. I like to joke the hardest use is on extra chunky peanut butter. I expect for the cost it will be a good ROI.

I'm glad you're pleased with it, Joe, I'm sure it will serve your purposes.

Madmarco wrote: ↑Sun Feb 04, 2024 10:23 pm

joeradza wrote: ↑Sat Feb 03, 2024 11:08 pm

Madmarco wrote: ↑Sat Feb 03, 2024 10:00 pm Almost all OTF's except for the ultra-expensive models have a little blade play.
Probably had to trade some tolerance for value.
I don't know how reliable they would be as work knives, considering the blade will likely collapse under very little pressure.
Best of luck!

I was expecting more blade play based on what I’ve read, so the little it has is acceptable. None of my knives, whether fixed, well made folders or inexpensive users get used hard. I like to joke the hardest use is on extra chunky peanut butter. I expect for the cost it will be a good ROI.

I'm glad you're pleased with it, Joe, I'm sure it will serve your purposes.

Thank you.

I was impressed with mine, didn't think it would last very long...that was about 6 years ago and its still going strong.
I'd been looking for a knife that I could open and close with gloves on. I carry it in a side pocket on bibs and carpenter jeans,
easy to get and deploy. Its a rough use knife, does have blade play but not bad, holds a decent edge. It will jump the track
sometimes but quick shake fixes it. Mine didn't have a pocket clip so I made one, not pretty but it works !

It appears to have served you well, Bob, which is all you can really ask for.
I don't think I've previously seen such a well worn OTF, and I like the look.

I agree.