If you’re an avid EDC enthusiast, you rely on a set of tools to prepare you for any situation you might encounter. There are various EDC tools, from pocket flashlights to multi-tools. However, the most revered and common EDC item is the pocketknife.
The pocket knife is a specialized EDC tool in itself. There are numerous varieties available, with different setups and designs. Having a trusty pocket is helpful in plenty of situations, from unpacking boxes to defending against an attack.
The assisted open knife is a popular model, providing a quick open and close of the blade from the body. This model has mid-range pricing and a compact size. The blade and frame of the knife rarely reach above 10-inches when fully open.
The assisted opening knife is a versatile tool for the campsite, a hike, or urban sprawl. Its sturdy blade an assisted action make it a convenient tool to keep handy, and many come with clips to fit on the sides of your pockets for easy reach.
However, this design makes them a compact and robust tool for EDC. There are dozens of knife manufacturers and hundreds of models to choose from when selecting your next open assisted knife. In this post of the best assisted-opening knife, we round up ten of the best models available.
Our Top Picks
Contents
- 1 Our Top Picks
- 2 Assisted Opening Knife Reviews
- 2.1 Kershaw 1776 Link – The Best Overall Assisted Opening Knife
- 2.2 Zero Tolerance 0350 – The Best Premium Assisted Opening Knife
- 2.3 Ka-Bar 30666 Mark 98 – The Best Budget Assisted Opening Knife
- 2.4 Al Mar Mini SERE 2020 Spring Assisted Knife
- 2.5 Ontario Knife 8871
- 2.6 CRKT Full Throttle EDC
- 2.7 Gerber Index Knife 30-001356
- 2.8 Kershaw Cryo Pocket Knife
- 2.9 CIVIVI Dogma EDC Pocket knife
- 2.10 CRKT Endorser EDC
- 3 Other Best Selling Options
- 4 Spring Assisted Opening Knife Buyer’s Guide
- 5 What are the Vital Features of an Assisted Opening Knife?
- 6 Assisted Opening Knife FAQs
- 7 The Verdict
We spent hours going through the best assisted-opening knife models. There are hundreds available, and we narrowed them down to the top ten picks in this review. From our selection, we picked out three models we think represent the best value in three categories.
- Best Pick: Kershaw 1776 Link
The Kershaw Link wins our top honors for the best overall open assisted knife. This model comes with a 4.4-inch body when closed, and a retractable carbon/chromium alloy for the blade, giving exceptional toughness and a razor-sharp edge. - Premium Pick: Zero Tolerance 0350
This model wins our award for the best premium open assisted knife in this review. The Zero Tolerance 0350 offers you everything you need in an EDC open assisted model. This knife is a great choice for utility and self-defense, with an S350V stainless steel blade featuring a corrosion-resistant tungsten coating reducing friction during cuts. - Budget Pick: Ka-Bar 30666 Mark 98
This Ka-Bar model is a great choice for a flipper knife and the best budget deal in this review. The Ka-Bar comes from a manufacturing heritage that builds knives for every purpose, from hunting and camping to self-defense. This model continues the company’s legacy of affordable, high-quality blades for EDC use. The 30666 Mark 98 features a 5Cr15 stainless steel blade with a hollow grind and toughened G-10 handle.
Assisted Opening Knife Reviews
Now that you have an idea of our top models, let’s unpack them in further detail. We’ll also look at a few other models we feel should qualify for inclusion in the top ten list of the best EDC assisted opening knives for your EDC carry.
Make sure you read through the buyer’s guide section after the reviews. We’ll give you everything you need to know about selecting the right knife to match your needs.
Kershaw 1776 Link – The Best Overall Assisted Opening Knife
Kershaw designed this model with American Heritage in mind. Naming it the 1776 Link is a throwback to the founding fathers, and a quality knife for EDC use. Whether you’re carrying for hunting or self-defense, this knife is a great choice.
- KERSHAW LINK OLIVE STONEWASHED POCKETKNIFE: The Link has gained popularity as a premium-quality pocketknife. We took it to the next level with a new machined, anodized aluminum handle in olive, upgraded blade steel, and black-oxide hardware.
- DROP POINT PLAIN EDGE BLADE: Made from CPM 20CV steel to provide superior blade harness, corrosion-resistance, toughness, and wear resistance. The stonewashed finish helps hide scratches from daily use.
- 6061-T6 ALUMINUM HANDLE: The olive green anodized aluminum handle provides lightweight strength, along with machined patterning for an enhanced grip. Includes reversible pocketclip for right/left, tip-up carry.
- DESIGNED WITH SAFETY IN MIND: Equipped with Kershaw’s assisted opening for easy one-handed release with flipper. Liner lock secures blade in place for ensured user safety.
- SIZE SPECIFICATIONS: Blade Length: 3.25in. Closed Length: 4.4in. Overall Length: 7.6in. Weighing in at 4.7oz. Made in the USA. Backed by Kershaw’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.
It comes in six colors, but we like the stonewashed black color, giving a rawness and authenticity to the blade. You get a chromium reinforced carbon steel blade that’s tough enough to hold an edge in the most demanding conditions. This assisted opening knife comes with the American flag laser-etched into the chassis to show your patriotism.
The knife comes with a reversible pocket clip for EDC on either pocket to suit right and left-handed people. You get a large finger tang at the front of the blade for extra control during cutting and easy return of the blade to the chassis.
- Retractable carbon steel blade
- Chromium alloy for corrosion resistance
- Patriot “1776” model with American flag etched into the G-10 grip
- Reversible pocket clip
- Body length 4.4-inches when closed
- Lanyard clip-on frame
- Available in six colors
- Not suitable for survival use
Zero Tolerance 0350 – The Best Premium Assisted Opening Knife
Zero Tolerance makes some of the best EDC knives in the game. This company focuses on quality, with unique designs that are highly functional and visually attractive.
The 0350 assisted opening model is another addition to the premium collection from ZT. This model features the legendary “SpeedSafe” flipper, giving you an easy one-handed operation of the knife and superior control.
- High performance and premium quality S350V stainless steel makes the recurve blade extremely durable, corrosion resistant and wear resistant
- Non-reflective black Tungsten DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) blade coating and black G-10 handle scales cleanly pair together for a sleek, smooth
- Quad-mount pocket clip convenient for left or right handed, tip-up, or tip-down carry
- Ideal EDC, easy folding pocket knife for everyday tasks—survival tool, precision cutting, self-defense, tactical use or the perfect gift
- General all-purpose knife great for EDC or use while working, camping, fishing, hunting, utility or any outdoor activity
This brand is a sister company of the legendary Kershaw brand that wins our top choice for the best overall assisted opening knife. The blade features design and construction with toughened S350V stainless steel. There’s an organic curve to the blade, increasing your leverage over the knife, enhancing your cutting power.
You get a liner locking system for secure use, and a quad-mounted pocket clip for ambidextrous use on either pocket. This model is suitable for EDC self-defense and utility, and it’s a great choice for a special gift.
- Easy flipper open mechanism
- G-10 handles for superior grip
- Liner locking mechanism
- Blade Length 3.25″
- S350V stainless steel blade
- Tungsten non-friction coating
- Quad-mount pocket clip for versatile EDC
- Not suitable for survival use
Ka-Bar 30666 Mark 98 – The Best Budget Assisted Opening Knife
If you’re looking for the best budget deal in this review, the Ka-Bar 3066 Mark 98 is an excellent budget-friendly choice that doesn’t skimp on the features.
This model comes with a flipper-style assisted opening, and the flipper forms an extension to the tang on the grip for added control over the knife. The handle comes with G-10 grips, available in different colors.
- Opens with a flipper & can be carried either tip up or tip down
- 5Cr15 Stainless Steel
- Hollow grind
- Multi-colored G10 handle scales
- OAL: 8. 188”
You get a 5Cr15 stainless steel blade, tungsten coated for a friction-free cut. This model features a hollow grind on the edge, with a bloodline included. This model is excellent value for money and a top choice for the best budget model in this review. It makes a great gift for friendship.
- Flipper opening mechanism
- Excellent value for money
- 5Cr15 stainless steel blade
- Bloodline for hunting use and self-defense
- The blade features a hollow grind
- A selection of multi-colored G-10 handles available
- Suitable for self-defense or utility carry
- Feels large in the hands for an EDC
Al Mar Mini SERE 2020 Spring Assisted Knife
Al Mar is a knife manufacturing brand with a sturdy reputation in the EDC community. The brands folding knives are some of the best in the world, focusing on high-quality components. This Mini SERE model is a top choice for a spring-assisted knife.
The brand collaborated with Kershaw on a few knives years ago, but the SERE spring-assisted knife is a solo project, with outstanding build quality comparable to Kershaw. This knife has a tactical feel, with fast opening thanks to the spring-assisted opening design.
The spring-assisted flipper mechanism acts as a blade guard to prevent accidents, and the blade comes with D2 tool steel for durable and hardened performance that retains an edge for years.
The deep reversible pocket clip makes for a secure EDC on the right or left side. You get G-10 handles providing a comfortable and secure grip on the knife when cutting. The ergonomic design of the handle fits comfortably in your hand, giving you plenty of leverage over the blade.
- Featuring a spring-assisted open
- Liner locking mechanism for safety
- G-10 handles
- 3-inch blade
- Lanyard carry hole
- D2 tool steel blade for additional hardness
- No reversible pocket carry clip
Ontario Knife 8871
The Joe Pardue Utilitac model from legendary knifemakers OKC is a top choice in this review. This model from the Ontario Knife Company keeps its reputation for producing purpose-built blades for any EDC scenario.
The Utilitac is the signature design model from Joe Pardue. The Utilitac features a tactical design with utility features built-into the blade. This knife comes with an AUS 8 stainless steel coated blade for friction-free cutting and a sturdy edge that stays razor-sharp.
- Folding Knife
- Black finished blade
- G-10 Handle
This mechanical-assisted opening action has a lightning-quick opening function, with a line lock on the handle’s side for easy one-handed use. The knife features an aggressive thumb stud as well as an ergonomic handle that feels good in your hand with the G-10 scales providing plenty of traction.
The 3″ drop-point blade is suitable for utility and self-defense use but doesn’t feature a reversible pocket clip. This model comes with an affordable price tag and a legacy of some of the best knives in the world behind it.
- Tactical open-assist
- Dual thumb studs for easy opening
- G-10 handles scales for good grip
- Liner locking mechanism for safety
- 3-inch blade
- Curved chassis for better slashing in self-defense
- AUS 8 stainless steel coated blade
- More tactical than utility
- No reversible pocket clip
CRKT Full Throttle EDC
CRKT is another premium knife manufacturer. This brand has dozens of models, and the Full-Throttle is our top choice for the assisted opening range. This knife comes with a 2.9″ bead blasted drop-point blade for toughened reliability you can trust in various EDC scenarios.
Award-winning knifemaker Matthew Lerch stepped up to the design plate with this knife. This knife has a design that accentuates speed and accuracy, making it ideal for utility and EDC self-defense. The knife comes with left or right-handed clip setup, and a deep pocket clip for extra-secure carry.
- Fast Opening: Outburst assisted opening deploys the blade fast
- Exceptional Grip: G10 handle provides grip in all conditions
- Brute Strength: Frame lock utilizes a thick lock bar to secure the blade
- Designed by Matthew Lerch in Sussex, Wisconsin
- Limited Lifetime Warranty covers any defects in materials or workmanship, see company site for details
The knife has small mechanical motors actuating the thumb stud when opening the knife. The frame lock snaps the blade securely into place, giving you full control over the knife.
The blade features design and construction with durable 8Cr13MoV for holding a razor-sharp edge and excellent corrosion resistance. The CRKT Full-Throttle features G-10 handles and an ergonomic design to the grip of the knife.
- Thumb stud assisted opening mechanism
- Frame lock for added safety
- G-10 handles
- 8Cr13MoV blade for exceptional hardness and edge retention
- Ergonomic handle design
- Reversible pocket clip for easy EDC
- Lifetime warranty
- Only available with black handle scales
Gerber Index Knife 30-001356
Gerber is a brand synonymous with quality. If celebrity superstars like Bear Grylls trust the brand, we bet it’s a good choice for your next EDC.The Index knife comes with a 5Cr15MoV blade for corrosion resistance and durability.
The spring-assisted opening mechanism locks into place for total control over the knife. The liner lock holds the blade in place until you hit the release lever, returning it to the chassis using the flipper levers for superior control.
- DEPENDABLE FOLDING KNIFE: Features a textured G-10 handle for sure grip, patented forward action spring technology (FAST) for quick blade deployment, a partially serrated tanto blade for fast cuts, striking pommel, sturdy pocket clip, and lanyard hole
- SURVIVAL GEAR AND EQUIPMENT: Made from stainless steel that will stand the test of time, a lightweight tactical knife that can conveniently travel with you
- SLIM DESIGN: Easily accessible and fits compactly in a pocket, secured with a pocket clip; Safety slide locking feature protects when not in use
- WORKSITE AND CAMPING ACCESSORIES: Great for any hunter, tradesman, and the everyday carry; Perfect addition to camping essentials, toolbox, work wear, and fishing and hiking gear
- CONVENIENT SIZE: 3.75" blade length and 8.75" overall length; 5.7 oz weight; Backed by the Gerber Guarantee, a limited lifetime warranty
You get thumb studs and a flipper with this model for fast opening times in emergencies. The knife comes with a large pocket clip for EDC, making it easy to withdraw the knife. This model is more of a utility knife, but also has use as a self-defense blade.
- Finger flipper open mechanism
- Featuring design and construction with 5Cr15MoV
- Dual thumb studs for superior control over the blade
- Anodized and textured handles for added control and grip
- Line locking mechanism for easy closing
- Lanyard carry hole
- No reversible pocket clips
Kershaw Cryo Pocket Knife
This Kershaw model is another top contender for the best assisted opening knife. This Cryo model comes with predrilled holes in the chassis for a 4-way pocket clip. Carry the knife with the tip facing up or down to suit your preference.
The clip on the handle allows for the secure deep-pocket carry of the knife. The lightweight design of this model features aluminum spacers to reduce material used in the manufacture of the knife.
- KERSHAW CRYO BLACKWASH POCKET KNIFE: Styled after the original Cryo for its award-winning design, now offered in a full rough-and-tumble blackwash finish. Built from pure stainless steel, designed to be a sturdy, aesthetically pleasing knife.
- DROP POINT PLAIN EDGE BLADE: Made from 8Cr13MoV blade steel that offers edge-holding capability, strength, and hardness that’s easy to sharpen. BlackWash blade finish adds extra protection.
- CONTOURED, ALL-STEEL HANDLE provides a comfortable, secure grip during use. Black-oxide BlackWash handle. Includes pocketclip for 4-position deep-carry (right/left, tip-up/down)
- DESIGNED WITH SAFETY IN MIND: Equipped with Kershaw’s assisted opening and built-in flipper for easy one-handed blade release. Frame lock secures blade safely in place and lockbar stabilization prevents lock over-travel.
- SIZE SPECIFICATIONS: Blade Length: 2.75in. Closed Length: 3.75in. Overall Length: 6.5in. Weighing in at 4.1oz. Backed by Kershaw's Limited Lifetime Warranty.
We like the black stonewashed design with a gun-metal look to the knife, and the rugged design features a striker point for breaking car windows in an emergency.
The Kershaw Cryo is a great choice for utility use, but the blade might be a bit short for effective EDC self-defense.
- 4-way pocket clip
- Assisted open action
- Deep clip for pocket carry
- An overall open length of 7.5″
- Vintage appeal with a rugged design
- Attractive blackwash finish
- 8Cr13MoV blade for a hardened edge that stays sharp
- Short 2.75″ blade
CIVIVI Dogma EDC Pocket knife
If you want an EDC assisted open knife with a unique design, we recommend checking out the CIVIVI Dogma. This model comes with a D2 tool steel blade for a hard, durable edge on your knife that lasts for years.
- ✅【Durable Blade】Durable black stonewashed D2 steel blade can handle everyday cutting tasks as well as providing choil for better gripping control when you may need to cut small or tiny things.
- ✅【Classic Copper Handle】Black polished copper handle enhances the grip and blade control of this compact folder, fit in the hand comfortably.
- ✅【Smooth Opening System】With ball bearings in the pivot,cool knife is easy to one hand open, solid liner lock secures the blade, work pocket knives for indoor and outdoor.
- ✅【Knife as Perfect Gift】Well designed everyday carry folder is the kind of special gifts for husband from wife, nice as dad gifts,anniversary or Birthday,whether or not they're into knives.
- ✅【Civivi Care】Civivi knives and tools provide a lifetime guarantee against defects in material and workmanship, see company site for details.
The Dogma comes with attractive G-10 handles, featuring a unique copper-tome design for a beautiful finish. The coated blade provides a friction-free cutting experience, and the knife comes with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.
- Stonewashed D2 tool steel blade
- Classic copper handle for an aesthetic finish
- Tungsten coated blade for friction resistance
- Easy one-handed open assist
- Great as a gift
- Lifetime warranty
- The copper finish might be too loud for some
CRKT Endorser EDC
CRKT get a second nomination in this review for the best assisted opening knife. The “Endorser” features design from legendary knifemaker Matthew Lerch in Sussex, Wisconsin.
This model comes with an ergonomic handle and G-10 grips, with a 1.4116 stainless steel blade featuring “Outburst” assisted opening for lightning-fast draws.
- ✅【Durable Blade】Durable black stonewashed D2 steel blade can handle everyday cutting tasks as well as providing choil for better gripping control when you may need to cut small or tiny things.
- ✅【Classic Copper Handle】Black polished copper handle enhances the grip and blade control of this compact folder, fit in the hand comfortably.
- ✅【Smooth Opening System】With ball bearings in the pivot,cool knife is easy to one hand open, solid liner lock secures the blade, work pocket knives for indoor and outdoor.
- ✅【Knife as Perfect Gift】Well designed everyday carry folder is the kind of special gifts for husband from wife, nice as dad gifts,anniversary or Birthday,whether or not they're into knives.
- ✅【Civivi Care】Civivi knives and tools provide a lifetime guarantee against defects in material and workmanship, see company site for details.
The thumb studs provide excellent control over the blade while opening, and the liner lock keeps the blade securely locked.
- Ergonomic handle for better control over the blade
- 4116 stainless steel blade for durability and razor-sharp edge
- Thumb guard protects the accidental opening of the knife
- Corrosion-resistant tungsten coating
- Two-tone G-10 handles
- Outburst assisted opening for quick release
- No lanyard loop
Other Best Selling Options
- Backed by the trusted name of Kershaw, the misdirect folding pocketknife is a value-priced, affordable, helpful tool for any job around the house and great for taking on outdoor adventures
- With a closed length of 4-inches, overall length of 6. 8-Inches and a blade length of 2. 9-Inches, the misdirect is small enough to comfortably carry in pocket, bag, Pack, or Purse
- Featuring a sturdy frame lock, 3-position pocket Clip for right and left tip-up or tip-down carry, speed Safe Assisted opening and a flipper, the misdirect is a convenient pocket companion
- Whether on the job or around the house, camping, hunting, boating, fishing, working outdoors or in the garage, The Kershaw misdirect is ready for any task you might ask of it
- From opening packages to cutting cord to whittling a stick to roast marshmallows, this dependable, useful knife has a precision tip and sharp edge that makes it a great slicing and cutting knife
- KERSHAW CLASH BLACK SERRATED POCKETKNIFE: Kershaw fans call the Clash the perfect EDC. It’s a top choice for those looking for an affordable, all-purpose utility pocketknife, now in a black-oxide finish.
- DROP POINT PARITALLY SERRATED EDGE BLADE: Made from 8Cr13MoV blade steel for edge-holding capability, strength, and hardness. The partial serrations add versatility to zip through fibrous materials. Black-oxide coating enhances performance.
- DURABLE GLASS-FILLED NYLON HANDLE: A beefy, glass-filled nylon handle with deep index-finger indentation contours for a comfortable, secure grip. Black handle. Includes reversible pocketclip for right, tip-up/down carry.
- DESIGNED WITH SAFETY IN MIND: Equipped with Kershaw’s assisted opening and built-in flipper for fast, easy one-handed blade release. Liner lock secures blade safely in place during use.
- SIZE SPECIFICATIONS: Blade Length: 3.1in. Closed Length: 4.25in. Overall Length: 7.5in. Weighing in at 4.3oz. Backed by Kershaw’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.
- KERSHAW LEEK POCKET KNIFE: The Kershaw Leek might just be your new favorite EDC. Not too big, not too small, the 3-inch blade and slim design make it capable of fulfilling a wide range of cutting tasks. Made in the USA.
- DROP POINT PLAIN EDGE BLADE: Made from high-performance Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel, the blade resharpens easily and holds its edge. The bead-blasted finish provides a clean, matte look.
- 410 STAINLESS STEEL HANDLE: The corrosion-resistant, stainless-steel handle is contoured for a comfortable grip while in use. Silver, bead-blasted finish. Includes reversible pocketclip for right, tip-up/down carry.
- DESIGNED WITH SAFETY IN MIND: Equipped with Kershaw’s SpeedSafe assisted opening for easy one-handed release with flipper. Frame lock secures blade open while in use and Tip-lock slider keeps blade locked closed when folded.
- SIZE SPECIFICATIONS: Blade Length: 3in. Closed Length: 4in. Overall Length: 7in. Weighing in at 3oz. Backed by Kershaw’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.
- Lightweight yet sturdy, the Appa is a perfect every day carry for any task - cutting tape, boxes, rope and more
- Black 2.75 inch serrated reverse tanto blade with a razor sharp cutting edge - the Appa features several cut outs in the handle to keep it light but strong
- Assisted Opening allows for easy, quick, one handed opening with the flipper - blade is held in place when opened with a liner lock
- Features a reversible pocketclip as well as a lanyard hole for several carrying options based off your preference - adjusted with a T6 bit
- Knife measures 6.5 inches when opened and 3.6 inches closed. Weighs just under 2 ounces, a light knife.
- DIMENSIONS: 8.6 inch (21.8 cm) overall length with a blade length of 3.6 inches (9.1 cm) and a weight of 7.6 ounces
- DURABLE: Blade is made of reliable 4034 black oxide high carbon stainless steel with a black aluminum handle with rubber inlay
- DEPENDABLE: Quick and easy access with the convenient pocket clip, flipper/finger actuator and M.A.G.I.C. assisted opening making it ideal for everyday carry
- SECURE: Have confidence that the blade will not slip with the security of the liner lock and safety lock
- BE PREPARED: Knife Features Glass Breaker And Seatbelt Cutter
Spring Assisted Opening Knife Buyer’s Guide
Is your head spinning from the choices in this review? We get it; choosing the best assisted opening knife is tough, even when you only have ten models.
In this section, we’ll unpack the characteristics and functionality of the best assisted opening knives. We’ll give you everything you need to make an informed purchase decision on the right knife for you.
What are Assisted Opening Knives?
Assisted opening knives, also known as “spring assisted” knives feature an internal mechanism built-into the handle of the knife. Some models have a spring-loaded operation, while others have “flipper” paddles” or “Thumb studs” for assisted opening.
The idea behind the assisted opening knife is to give you one-handed operation over opening the tool. You usually open the blade using your thumb, pressing on the stud or flipper to reveal the blade.
After opening, the blade locks into place, securing the knife in the open position. When you want to retract the blade, you move the locking mechanism on the hilt and close it using your fingers.
Assisted opening knives come in a variety of designs, with different utility in mind. Some are for EDC situations like opening boxes or cutting rope, while others have a design for use as a self-defense weapon.
Choosing the right knife for your purchase depends on what you intend to use it on an EDC basis. Here are a few of the reasons why you might benefit from an assisted opening knife.
- Utility – Use the knife around the workshop, garage, or even the kitchen. A sturdy EDC assisted opening knife has plenty of applications in everyday situations like removing product packaging.
- Self-defense – Keep an assisted opening knife on your for a legal self-defense weapon that requires no license to hold.
- Emergency response – If you’re a first responder of a prepared person, some EDC assisted opening knives come with striker points built into the handle. You can use these points to shatter windows and the blade to cut seatbelts when rescuing victims from car wrecks.
- Hunting and Camping – Whether you’re gutting fish or cutting guy lines, an EDC assisted opening knife can handy around the campsite. Take it with you on hikes and climbs, and fishing or hunting trips.
There are purpose-built blades to suit these four basic categories, from curved karambit designs to flat shovel-heads. Choose the design that you think best matches your daily needs for a knife.
Automatic Knives Vs. Assisted Opening Knives
Assisted opening knives give you easier one-handed control over your knife. When wounded or disabled on one arm, you can reach for your knife and withdraw the blade.
While some assisted opening knives are spring-assisted, you shouldn’t confuse them with “switchblades.” A switchblade or “automatic” knife relies on a spring-loaded, as opposed to a spring-assisted opening mechanism. These models are illegal in most states and the UK.
The MicroTech models are the best examples of switchblades, and the knives used in the “John Wick” movie franchise. However, they are entirely different weapons, purpose-built for assault and self-defense.
Spring-assisted opening knives help you open the knife, with the blade pivoting on one end of the knife. With a switchblade, the spring shoots the blade through the hilt and out one side of the knife, ready for use in the locked position. You activate the spring mechanism using a trigger button on the chassis of the knife.
Spring-assisted opening knives have a multi-purpose design, offering more utility than switchblades. Automatic knives are a good addition to your collection, but with a vastly different EDC purpose than spring-assisted blades.
What are the Vital Features of an Assisted Opening Knife?
What makes a good assisted opening knife? In this section, we’ll look at the top considerations and features for your EDC carry.
Blade Buttons and Thumb Studs
The assisted opening knife comes with a thumb-mounted opening method. Most models rely on flipper paddles of thumb studs to open the knife and expose the blade. You need to choose the method that feels right to you.
Both options offer a fast opening of the blade, and selecting the right choice is a matter of personal preference.
Some models feature a spring lever engaging during the travel of the blade while opening. As a result, the blade snaps securely into place effortlessly, giving you total control over the knife. When you want to withdraw the blade, you move the line locking mechanism, freeing it for return to the chassis.
Blade Design
There are various blade designs for purpose-built situations. For example, if you’re an emergency worker, look for models that offer a curved blade. This blade gets under seat belts, allowing for easy cutting of the straps and removing the victim from the harness.
If you’re a hunter or in need of a knife for self-defense, a bloodline is a useful feature in the blade. The bloodline prevents the blade from stopping the flow of blood, letting the animal or attacker bleed out.
Manufacturers will design blades for different EDC use. Shorter blades are useful for tougher jobs around the campsite and in EDC situations. Blades around 4-inches in length are the best choice for multi-purpose use.
Shorter blades give you more leverage, which makes them suitable for tougher cutting tasks. Longer blades are the better choice for hunting and EDC self-defense. The blade can feature a clean edge or serrations, with different tips for cutting, stabbing, or slashing.
Lightweight Materials and Construction
When carrying your EDC assisted opening knife, you might not want a heavy model weighing you down.
You want a knife that you forget is there. Look for slimline form factors that fit easily and snugly against the side of your pocket. Most models feature reversible pocket clips for right or left-handed carry.
Most knives feature blades with lightweight materials like stainless steel and carbon alloys. Most of the weight in the knife comes from the handle. You need more weight in the handle of the knife to provide you control when cutting.
Service Life and Durability
When buying your new EDC assisted opening knife, make sure you purchase one from a leading manufacturer. All the knives in this review feature design and construction by the top knife brands in the world. These models are the best of the best of the brands offering in this category.
Premium knifemakers offer lifetime warranties on the blade and chassis of the knife. However, they won’t guarantee the knife for EDDC wear-and-tear. That means they aren’t responsible if the edge goes dull.
You’ll need to maintain the knife yourself and ensure you always have a razor-sharp edge on the blade. However, we advise against sharpening the knife yourself. It takes craftsman years to learn how to sharpen knives properly.
There are various grinds for the knife, depending on the type of material used in the blade’s manufacture. With a professional grinding service, you get a razor-sharp finish you can trust.
Knife Size
Bigger is not always better when it comes to selecting the best assisted opening knife. The size of the knife depends on your personal preference and how you intend to use the blade.
Pocket space is also a consideration, and if you want a larger knife, you might need to think about a belt-carry clip for your knife or a beltline sheath.
The size of the blade makes a difference for EDC. Some prefer a longer blade, while others prefer a shorter model. The choice is yours.
Assisted Opening Knife FAQs
Are open assisted knives legal in California?
According to state law, carrying an open assisted knife in California is legal. However, the knife must open with one hand or thumb, utilizing pressure to the blade. The blade must also have a deterrent against accidental opening, and a locking mechanism when open.
Are open assisted knives legal in the UK?
According to UK law, the open assisted knife falls into the category of locking knives. These models are legal to carry in the UK, provided you have “good reason.”
Folding or open assisted – which is the best knife?
A folding knife lacks the open mechanism of an open assisted knife. As a result, it’s easier to handle an open assisted model. You get better control of the opening and closing of the blade. Folding knives require you to exert pressure on the blade when closing the knife. This action places your finger or hand at risk of an accidental laceration.
Where’s the best place to buy an open assisted knife?
We recommend buying your open assisted knife from Amazon. Amazon offers fast shipping for Prime members and the best prices online. With Amazon, you get buyer protection for your purchase, ensuring you get 100% buyer satisfaction with the deal.
The Verdict
By now, you should have a good idea of the best open assisted knives available. However, we understand that variety can be a pain when settling on your ideal model. If you’re having trouble selecting the best knife from the bunch, why not go with one of our top picks?
- The Kershaw Link is our top choice for the best open assisted knife available. This model comes with a toughed carbon steel blade, rugged G-10 handles, and a reversible side clip for your pockets. This model comes in six colors to suit your style.
- The Zero Tolerance 0350 is our choice for the best premium open assisted knife in this review. With this model, you get an S350V stainless steel blade, with tungsten coating, and a right or left-handed grip. The quad-mount pocket clip is convenient for EDC, and it’s a great choice for utility and self-defense.
- The Ka-Bar 30666 Mark 98 is the best choice for an affordable open assisted knife. This budget model offers excellent design and construction with 5 Cr15 stainless steel. The G-10 handles provide plenty of leverage over the blade, and the hollow grind gives you a razor-sharp edge.
