I'm looking to pick up an OTF knife for duty use, but don't want to drop $200-$300+ on something like a Microtech, Kershaw, or similar, though I still want something above "gas station/gun show knife" grade.

Here's my wish list:

-Spear, drop, or dagger point. Non-serrated.

-Left hand or ambidextrous use (e.g. a reversible pocket clip, or an ambi switch on the front grip).

-Double-action.

-$100 or under.

If it comes in OD Green, even better, but plain Black is fine.

I understand at this price point that I won't get some ultra high end steel, and it'll likely be Chinese/Taiwanese made, though perhaps from a legit US or European company.

A quick Google led me to some seemingly decent options like the AKC Evo or the Templar Gen II for ~$100.

What else should I be considering?

Look at the Cobratec large Ranger, drop point blade, reversible clip, aluminum frame with G10 sides available in black or OD green. I have one in black and one in green, nice knife with a street price just over $100.

Lightning OTF's are probably the most reliable and robust budget friendly OTF's. I've had one for about 15yrs, I don't think it's ever had a failure to fire or retract.

https://www.grindworx.com/cat--Lightning-OTF--170

https://youtu.be/a1rqMZc5GJg?si=i3Tzi4OQhOIm81iP

I looked at the Lightnings already, but unfortunately, they are not ambidextrous or able to be set up for left side carry.

If I were gonna carry an OTF for emergencies or last ditch self-defense, I think a Benchmade Infidel or Mini-Infidel would be about the strongest, and most reliable. Yeah, I know all about Benchmade, but Blade Forums often has sellers offering them, both used and new, at far less than retail, though more than your $100.

FWIW, I still believe a flipper opening knife with, say a 4" blade, would be quicker than any OTF and less money.

I've had a Kershaw Livewire OTF since they came out and mine has been absolutely reliable, and again, Blade Forums is a good place to look.

Good luck with your hunt.

Bob

Sorry, but I'm not dropping $250-$500 on a duty knife that gets used, abused, and exposed to all weather.

I currently carry a Benchmade Barrage, which is an assisted opener. But I got it back when Benchmade had more reasonable prices plus had a serious LE discount, and it only cost me $80. It'd be $200+ to replace it today.

It's fine, and fast to deploy. But I like the idea of a DA OTF's one handed opening and closing.

How about a new Kershaw Livewire in Magnacut for $160? Black on black. Looks like dagger, drop point and tanto are options at that price. Spearpoint for $152.

Where are you seeing that? It's about $100 less than what I saw for Livewires.

I've never purchased from ExperVoice, but they have a few Livewire options starting at $152 with a military/LEO discount.

https://www.expertvoice.com/ho...op=787.6625366210938

Yep, Expertvoice. If you somehow can’t get set up with them and want one, let me know and I can get one headed your way.

Thanks for tip, gents.

$160 with my LE discount, -$20 for a new member coupon.

$140 with free shipping for a Made in USA Kershaw Livewire with Magnacut steel is kind of a no-brainer, compared to all the Chinese-made D2 or AUS-8 OTFs in that price range.

Thanks, Rogue, I learned something today from your post.

I've heard folks talking about one hand open/close and didn't understand why they had to use two hands. Most of my flippers and thumb stud knives have a frame or liner lock and I simply lift my thumb and press the lock to the left, and either turn the knife upside down (gotta be careful if the blade drops free past straight down, you can get a nasty cut) or press up on the blade with my index finger and let the knife close. Eazy-peazy.

Then I realized you (and others) are left handed and can't do that. Duh! I've never seen a flipper or thumb stud model knife reversed for lefties, but I can appreciate why you might want an OTF.

I saw a Hogue Incursion for sale on Blade Forums for $100. They have a good reputation, are said to be built like a tank and the only con is the thumb switch is a bit stiff at first. But I'd prefer a Livewire for the price mentioned by other posters if I had my druthers. So, once again good luck with your hunt.

Bob

Wow, Rogue, that's a great price on a fine OTF. Hope you enjoy it and never need it for protection.

Bob

quote:

Originally posted by straightshooter1:
Then I realized you (and others) are left handed and can't do that.

I'm actually not left-handed, but I carry my pocket knives on my left side and deploy them with my left hand.

The one complaint I have with the Livewire is that it’s a bit slick, like most Kershaws with aluminum handles. If this is going to be a back up weapon, I would put some traction or grip tape on it.

Thanks. I'll play around with it when it arrives. I have a spare sheet of rubberized Talon Grip material that I can apply if needed.

https://brookstactical.com/

Not abrasive, very secure gripping. Too pricey. Never mind.