Gear Automatic Knives – Unusual Suspects Recoil Staff March 5, 2012 Join the Conversation At RECOIL, we review every product fairly and without bias. Making a purchase through one of our links may earn us a small commission, and helps support independent gun reviews. Learn More Cutting Edged Technology When seconds count, automatic knives can make the difference between life and the Big Hereafter. Given the environments in which these tools operate, it's even more important they function perfectly every time. Filled with high-tech goodness, these aren't the el cheapo switchblades of yesteryear. There are federal and state laws regarding automatic knives, and some manufacturers may restrict their sales to military and law enforcement only. So, if you are looking to add an auto to your collection, be sure to do your due diligence. Brand Pro-Tech Model TR-2 Shaw Skull OAL 7.6 inches Blade Length 3 inches Blade Material 154CM Weight 3.3 ounces MSRP $300 URL www.protechknives.com This limited-run version of the popular TR-2 features a Bruce Shaw-designed sterling silver skull and a two-tone 154-CM spear-point blade. Nylon sheath pouch included. Brand SOG Model SE-51 Spec-Elite I OAL 7.8 inches Blade Length 3.5 inches Blade Material AUS-8 Weight 2.8 ounces MSRP $175 URL www.sogknives.com Super-fast and reliable opening with built-in safeties and reversible low-carry clips makes this auto a winner that's also reasonably priced. Brand Emerson/Pro-Tech Model CQC7 Auto E7T08 OAL 7.9 inches Blade Length 3.25 inches Blade Material 154CM Weight 4.1 ounces MSRP $280 URL www.protechknives.com A collaboration between Pro-Tech and tactical knife icon Ernest Emerson earned this auto the Best Collaboration Award when it debuted at the Professional Knife Maker's Association in Denver. Nylon carry pouch included. Brand Gerber Model 06 Auto OAL 8.5 inches Blade Length 3.70 inches Blade Material S30V Weight 6.30 ounces MSRP $200 URL www.gerbergear.com Gerber added G-10 handles to its top-selling 06 Auto to reduce weight, and the pommel features a strike point for emergency egress. Brand Benchmade Model 3300 Infidel OAL 8.95 inches Blade Length 3.95 inches Blade Material D2 Tool Steel Weight 5 ounces MSRP $460 URL www.benchmade.com Featuring Benchmade's patent pending double-action out-the-front auto action and bi-directional grips make for a serious edged weapon. Include is a MOLLE compatible sheath pouch. Brand Piranha Model Excalibur OAL 7.9 inches Blade Length 3.2 inches Blade Material 154CM Weight 4.4 ounces MSRP $550 URL www.piranhaknife.com This double-action out-the-front automatic is offered in a dizzying array of colors and finishes, but all feature Type 3 hardcoat anodized 6061-T6 frames and titanium pocket clips. Brand CRKT Model M16-04A OAL 9.25 inches Blade Length 4.0 inches Blade Material CPM-154 Weight 4.8 ounces MSRP $300 URL www.crkt.com Designed by Kit Carson, this auto knife offers a large blade in a relatively lightweight package with a 6061 Type 3 anodized aluminum handle. Explore RECOILweb:Preview - Good Omen - NEMO’s Precision Rifle Is an AR on SteroidsKimber 2015 Summer Gun Sweepstakes - Vote and Enter For a Chance to Win ItPrecision Rifle Series--For KidsNighthawk Drop-In 1911 Trigger NEXT STEP: Download Your Free Target Pack from RECOILFor years, RECOIL magazine has treated its readers to a full-size (sometimes full color!) shooting target tucked into each big issue. Now we've compiled over 50 of our most popular targets into this one digital PDF download. From handgun drills to AR-15 practice, these 50+ targets have you covered. Print off as many as you like (ammo not included). Get your pack of 50 Print-at-Home targets when you subscribe to the RECOIL email newsletter. We'll send you weekly updates on guns, gear, industry news, and special offers from leading manufacturers - your guide to the firearms lifestyle.You want this. Trust Us.