The OTF knives are a comparatively narrow slice of the store, but they work for a purpose and have increased in fame with a little cooperation from the mainstream media that proceeds to put them in the spotlight. Without a doubt, the OTF knives are different and there are a limited number of OTF brands creating them. Like everything else, there are ordinary models and some truly outstanding OTF models that I am here to point out to you. Therefore, if you are looking for the Best OTF knife your money can buy, read on.

What Exactly Are OTF Knives?

The OTF stands for “Out-The-Front,” which is truly a handy descriptor for what these knives really are. You see, whereas folding blades (as their name implies) fold in half, the OTF knives do not fold at all. Rather, the blade (when dropped) is really housed inside the handle itself. When used, the blade is stretched outward and into an open position by an automatic mechanism (further housed within the handle) — normally by a button or slider. Then, once the user is completed with his or her cutting job, the blade slides back into the handle for safe and reliable carry until the knife is required again. For reference, the OTF knives are additionally sometimes known as telescoping or sliding knives.

What Are They Used For?

The OTF knives are typically applied for anything you would additionally use a switchblade or other folding knife for. Numerous OTF knives are dual-sided rather than only having a single edge, which has appeared in them getting some fame for tactical or combat uses, or for hunting conditions.

This being said, the OTF knives are less good as manual cutting tools because they have added parts and are thus more likely to break related to similar folding knives. Thus, OTF knives are often defensive or “cool” tools rather than staple survival knives.

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Top 12 Best Budget OTF Knife Review

Among various options, it can be difficult to pick the Best OTF knife for your lifestyle. In this article, we at BestDamascussKnife will give you the guide on the best OTF double action knife. Here is a list of some of the best choices out there to assist you to make a choice.

Here is the list of top 12 Best OTF knives:

• TR-1166, Custom Handmade Tracker Knife
• Kershaw Barstow (3960); All Black Pocket Knife
• Columbia River Knife & Tool CRKT Snap Lock Folding Pocket Knife
• TAC Force TF-809 Series Spring Assist Folding Knife
• Tac Force Folding Knife
• KA-BAR 2486 TDI, Hinderer Hell Fire Fixed Blade Knife
• S-TEC 12-inch Rugged Chef Field Tactical Folding Cleaver Pocket Knife
• Schrade SCHF19 7in High Carbon Stainless Steel Small Boot Knife
• Tac Force Assisted Opening Rescue Tactical Pocket Folding Punisher Knife
• Benchmade – Nimravus 141 Knife
• Smith & Wesson SWMP4LS 8.6in S.S. Assisted Folding Knife
• Smith & Wesson SWHRT9B 9in High Carbon S.S. Fixed Blade Knife

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Editor’s Note: We will update this list as more OTF Knives hits the market.

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	Product	Manufacturer	Shop
	TR-1166, Custom Handmade Tracker Knife	Poshland Knives
	Kershaw Barstow (3960); All Black Pocket Knife	Kershaw Sporting Goods
	Columbia River Knife & Tool CRKT Snap Lock Folding Pocket Knife	CRKT
	TAC Force TF-809 Series Spring Assist Folding Knife	Tac Force
	Tac Force Folding Knife	Tac Force
	KA-BAR 2486 TDI, Hinderer Hell Fire Fixed Blade Knife	Ka-Bar
	S-TEC 12-inch Rugged Chef Field Tactical Folding Cleaver Pocket Knife	S-TEC
	Schrade SCHF19 7in High Carbon Stainless Steel Small Boot Knife	Schrade
	Tac Force Assisted Opening Rescue Tactical Pocket Folding Punisher Knife	Dark Side
	Benchmade - Nimravus 141 Knife	Benchmade
	Smith & Wesson SWMP4LS 8.6in S.S. Assisted Folding Knife	Smith & Wesson
	Smith & Wesson SWHRT9B 9in High Carbon S.S. Fixed Blade Knife	Smith & Wesson

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1: TR-1166, Custom Handmade Tracker Knife

Features

• Special Promotional Price

PROS

1. It is a handmade Damascus Steel Tracker Knife
2. It has a beautiful Black Micarta Handle with Muzik Pin
3. The special Promotional Price – Do not miss out the Deal – Limited Stock
4. The handstitched Leather Sheath included. New Improved Stock

CONS

• It has no cons.

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2: Kershaw Barstow (3960); All Black Pocket Knife

Features

• 3 Inch
• Stainless Steel
• Spear Point Blade
• Features SpeedSafe Assisted Opening
• Reversible Pocket Clip
• Flipper and Secure Frame Lock
• 3.4 OZ

PROS

1. It has a liner lock that assures the blade stays open through use, stopping accidental closure and user peace of mind
2. The flipper supports to move the 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade securely out of the handle, for simple approachability
3. The SpeedSafe Assisted Opening helps users open the pocketknife conveniently while the spear point single sharpened edge stays facing its fit folding position
4. The Pre-drilled holes enable modified tip position and reversible sides for ambidextrous carrying options
5. It has a glass-filled nylon handle that provides the quality grip users require for wet activities like animal skinning, for all-weather access, durability, and enhanced protection

CONS

• It has no cons.

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3: Columbia River Knife & Tool CRKT Snap Lock Folding Pocket Knife

Features

• Gentleman Everyday Carry
• Satin Blade
• Innovative Snap Lock Mechanism Skeletonized Handle
• Quick Release Lanyard 5102N
• Silver

PROS

1. Innovative Opening: The Unique Cam Action Of The Snap Lock Mechanism
2. Minimizes Reflectivity: The Bead Blast Finish Reduces Reflection
3. Quick Release: Lanyard Can Be Immediately Released From Tool For Safety
4. It is Created by Ed Van Hoy in Abingdon, Virginia
5. It has a Limited Lifetime Warranty. 

CONS

• It has no cons.

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4: TAC Force TF-809 Series Spring Assist Folding Knife

Features

• Two-Tone Blade
• 4.5-Inch Closed

PROS

1. The Spring-assist Folding knife allows the rapid one-handed deployment, locks securely into position with liner lock
2. The two-tone black and silver stainless steel blade
3. It has a Stylish brown PAKKAWOOD handle
4. It has a pocket clip for comfortable and secure carry; seatbelt cutter and Glass breaker for emergencies
5. The 4.5-inch closed length; 3.5-inch blade length with 3 mm thickness

CONS

• It has no cons.

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5: Tac Force Folding Knife

Features

• Steel Blade
• Black
• Aluminum Handle
• 4.5-inches

PROS

1. It has a SILVER SPEAR HEADED STAINLESS STEEL BLADE
2. It is a fast and fluid operating spring assisted knife
3. It has Stainless steel removable Belt metal clip for carrying
4. Open length: 7.75 inches Closed Length: 4.5 inches Blade Length: 3.25 inches
5. It is made by Surgical Steel, High Quality & Last Long

CONS

• It has no cons.

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6: KA-BAR 2486 TDI, Hinderer Hell Fire Fixed Blade Knife

Features

• Black

PROS

1. It is Made in the USA
2. Category name: knives
3. It is an imported knife
4. The Blade Length is 3 9/16 Inch; Open Length 7 1/4 Inch
5. It has Locking Hard Plastic Sheath
6. Hollow Grind

CONS

• It has no cons.

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7: S-TEC 12-inch Rugged Chef Field Tactical Folding Cleaver Pocket Knife

PROS

1. Its overall length 12-inch, 5 inches Blade, 7 inches Handle.
2. It is included heavy-Duty Belt Clip and Nylon Carrying Pouch
3. It has a stainless steel Handle and Blade
4. It has ball Bearing Opening System for smooth opening operation
5. This knife is available in Multiple Colorways

CONS

• It has no cons.

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8: Schrade SCHF19 7in High Carbon Stainless Steel Small Boot Knife

Features

• 3.6in
• Dual Sided Blade
• TPE Handle
• For Outdoor Survival
• Tactical and EDC

PROS

1. DIMENSIONS: 7 inches (17.7 cm) overall length with a blade length of 3.6 inches (9.1 cm) and a weight of 2.1 ounces
2. DURABLE: Its blade is composed of strong 7Cr17MoV High Carbon S.S. with a black, thermoplastic elastomer handle
3. DEPENDABLE: Fast and convenient access with the comfortable leather sheath with a belt loop and boot clip presenting it excellent for everyday carry
4. SECURE: Have faith that the blade will not slip with the safety of the quillon
5. BE PREPARED: This Knife features a lanyard hole for added security when in use

CONS

• It has no cons.

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9: Tac Force Assisted Opening Rescue Tactical Pocket Folding Punisher Knife

Features

• Outdoor Survival Camping Hunting Knife

PROS

1. SNAKE EYE TACTICAL PUNISHER KNIFE

CONS

• It has no cons.

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10: Benchmade – Nimravus 141 Knife

Features

• Tanto Blade

PROS

1. HIGH-QUALITY: The 154CM stainless steel blade is strong, rust-resistant, and keeps an edge well. The 6061-T6 aluminum handle gives solid form and function at minimal weight.
2. WELL-DESIGNED: The Nimravus is a fixed blade, complete tang knife, giving greater power and safety than a folding knife. The integrity of the knife further makes it simple to clean.
3. ALWAYS READY: The 141 is easy and comfortable to hold and use. The MOLLE-compatible clip and nylon sheath give ultimate convenience.
4. FOR TACTICAL USE: The Nimravus 141’s tanto blade style provides for maximum force to be used to the tip, making it easy to cut. It is intended for tactical applications.
5. SERVICES AND BENEFITS: For information and terms regarding Benchmade’s Limited Warranty and LifeSharp Service, please visit Benchmade’s website.

CONS

• It has no cons.

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11: Smith & Wesson SWMP4LS 8.6in S.S. Assisted Folding Knife

Features

• 3.6in
• Serrated Clip Point Blade
• Aluminum Handle
• for Outdoor Tactical Survival
• EDC

PROS

1. DIMENSIONS: The 8.6 inches (21.8 cm) overall length with a blade length of 3.6 inches (9.1 cm) and a weight of 7.6 ounces
2. DURABLE: Its blade is composed of strong 4034 Black Oxide High Carbon Stainless Steel with a black aluminum handle with rubber inlay
3. DEPENDABLE: Fast and comfortable access with the convenient pocket clip, flipper/finger actuator, and M.A.G.I.C. assisted opening presenting it excellent for everyday carry
4. SECURE: Have faith that the blade will not slip with the protection of the liner lock and safety lock
5. GUARANTEED: This product is covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty.

CONS

• It has no cons.

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12: Smith & Wesson SWHRT9B 9in High Carbon S.S. Fixed Blade Knife

Features

• 4.7in
• Dual Edge Blade
• TPE Handle
• For Outdoor, Tactical, Survival
• EDC

PROS

1. DIMENSIONS: 9 inches (22.9 cm) overall length with a blade length of 4.7 inches (12.1 cm) and a weight of 7.7 ounces
2. DURABLE: Its blade is composed of strong 7Cr17MoV High Carbon Stainless Steel with a black rubber wrapped handle
3. DEPENDABLE: Swift and simple access with the comfortable belt or boot sheath making it perfect for everyday carry
4. SECURE: Have faith that the blade will not slip with the safety of the handguard
5. GUARANTEED: This product is covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty

CONS

• It has no cons.

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How to Pick the Best OTF Knife 

All of us desire the Best OTF knife just because it will be comfortable to use, practical, and reliable service. To discover and buy the best unit, we lack to analyze many things. Let us call those things factors to parameters, and now we can start listing them.

 1: Blade Material 

The blade is the most important part of any knife, and OTF models are no distinct. If the blade is minor in quality, it is pointless which kind of handle, extra features, or the price that the unit has. This applies to all knives.

The materials to view are stainless steel or carbon steel. Any other mix of metals is weaker and would not give outstanding performances. This indicates that the blade will chip, break, and become dull within minutes.

The stainless steel is a cost-effective alternative. It is simple to get a unit with this metal, it can be very durable, and it will look nice. The keeping is simple, as well. The carbon steel, on the other hand, is extra expensive, more powerful, and needs more maintenance. Be free to pick the type of metal you are satisfied with.

2: Deployment mechanism – Single action vs. Dual-action OTF Knives

Here we have two principal types. First of all, the deployment mechanism leads to the system that will deploy the blade from a resting position. A button or lever controls it, and it will activate the blade when pressed.

You can pick between single action and double or dual action mechanisms. A single-action model will be capable to deploy the blade individually. You lack to use manual force to put it back in the handle. A dual-action mechanism will deploy the blade and further retract it in the handle.

We favor double action OTF knives. They are a little more costly, difficult to make, prone to malfunction but more beneficial, more comfortable to use, and more reliable as well. You risk cuts while removing the blade manually!.

Example for single action OTF knife: Smith And Wesson M&P 1084315 Flat Dark Earth Spear

Example for double action OTF knife: Venom 3TR Assisted Combat Knife (Double Edge)

3: Handle Of Knife

For regular knives, the handle can be constructed from all kinds of materials. After all, it requires to be strong and lightweight. This is partially true with the OTF knives. Yes, a handle should be both of the only mentioned things, but there is a catch.

A handle will be under plenty of stress when using the knife. There are springs inside it, and there are plenty of vibrations. If the weak handle is present on the knife, it will take more exposure in the future.

Weak handles can affect the deployment mechanism and can stop it from working. They can further break and be unable to defend the user from the blade.

The best handle is built from aluminum. This is an enduring metal that is extremely resistant to vibrations while keeping the low weight of the knife.

4: Security mechanism

A security mechanism is completely distinct from the deployment mechanism we discussed earlier. In general, it is applied as an extension to stopping the blade from accidental deployment, and it deserves your sufficient attention.

If you unexpectedly open the blade, you can hurt yourself due to strong springs present in the action mechanism. A protection mechanism will stop that, and it is a necessary feature for all newcomers.

5: Glass breaker

You can get a model with or without this characteristic. We favor a model with it because it occurs without any disadvantages, yet the glass breaker is there when you require it. You can remove it if you need it, but there is no requirement for that.

A genuine thing is a reality most knives of this class include glass breakers. We can join that they are nearly standard with the knives of this caliber.

6: Tip of the blade

For most utmost of you, the tip of a blade is inappropriate when seeming for a new knife. After all, it is not something that will significantly improve the functionality of a knife. The case with OTF knives is different, and here is why.

The knife with OTF design will be applied to stab an object or anything you need to cut while the action mechanism is deployed. If the tip of the blade is dull, it will fail to inflict the injury. That is why we suggest you, model, with spear tip design. They are just the most useful.

7: Sheath

This is a unique accessory you would not get with most of the knives accessible on the store. The causes for that are simple. The blade is placed inside the handle, therefore it is not shown. As such, you do not require a sheath in most cases.

If you still require a sheath, keep in mind that it requires to be fit for an Out the front knife with a closed blade. This is the real position of the knife, and it should be carried just in this form.

8: Pocket clip

It is added little feature we like and seemingly you will as well. A pocket clip is necessary, particularly if you know that a sheath is not added to the package. It will help you transport the knife, and it will be within you at all times.

What Other Blades of OTF Knives are Available?

The Best OTF knife is frequently built with Tanto blades that are known for their angular shape thanks to the two straight edges that are connected together at the top. The Tanto blades are frequently favored over other blades because they have confirmed to be much more powerful particularly at the tip. Another good blade is the drop point blade that is principally used for hunting of knives however, they have a much thicker blade than the Tanto.

How to Choose a Reliable Stainless Steel Knife?

Nowadays, there are several varieties of stainless steel built-in several countries and changes in their strength and durability. Frequently, the stainless steel utilized determines the quality of the knife as well as how long it will serve its user.

Most Asian stainless steel blades such as 420, 440A, and 7CR13MOV are covered to be rust-resistant though they are much thinner than other equivalents hence they need more frequent sharpening. American stainless steel blades are frequently created to be more powerful and carry a much higher percentage of alloy and chrome.

They manage to be sharper and serve to better hold the edge so they require less maintenance as well as sharpening. Some examples of American made stainless steel blades are AUS6, 440C, and AUS8. Moreover, Japanese stainless steel blades are the most costly ones because they are built with a high chromium level.

Furthermore, these blades are additionally frequently coated with another layer, for example, with vanadium for supplemented durability and more reliable edge maintenance. Vanadium is frequently used for better rust and corrosion resistance as well. The Japanese stainless steel blades are stamped with CPM154, VG-10, or S30V and lead to be sold with sheaths or in a box to more protect the blade.

Conclusion

We were impressed with the quality, the mechanism, and the consideration to detail, and the affordable price of Venom 3TR OTF knife. We think most of you will be completely happy with this option and will use the knife for decades. If you are viewing for more affordable options, try OTF knives from HaoMing or NNK.

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	Product	Manufacturer	Shop
	TR-1166, Custom Handmade Tracker Knife	Poshland Knives
	Kershaw Barstow (3960); All Black Pocket Knife	Kershaw Sporting Goods
	Columbia River Knife & Tool CRKT Snap Lock Folding Pocket Knife	CRKT
	TAC Force TF-809 Series Spring Assist Folding Knife	Tac Force
	Tac Force Folding Knife	Tac Force
	KA-BAR 2486 TDI, Hinderer Hell Fire Fixed Blade Knife	Ka-Bar
	S-TEC 12-inch Rugged Chef Field Tactical Folding Cleaver Pocket Knife	S-TEC
	Schrade SCHF19 7in High Carbon Stainless Steel Small Boot Knife	Schrade
	Tac Force Assisted Opening Rescue Tactical Pocket Folding Punisher Knife	Dark Side
	Benchmade - Nimravus 141 Knife	Benchmade
	Smith & Wesson SWMP4LS 8.6in S.S. Assisted Folding Knife	Smith & Wesson
	Smith & Wesson SWHRT9B 9in High Carbon S.S. Fixed Blade Knife	Smith & Wesson

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Disclaimer

“All brand names and images are Registered Trademarks of their respective companies. All manufacturers names, numbers, symbols and descriptions are used for reference purposes only, and it is not implied that any part listed is the product of these manufacturers or approved by any of these manufacturers.”

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