Assisted opening knives have become a popular choice for those who need a quick, reliable blade in a variety of situations. Whether for everyday carry, outdoor activities, or tactical use, these knives are designed to open with minimal effort, making them a convenient and efficient tool. The United States is home to some of the best knife manufacturers, known for their craftsmanship, durability, and innovative designs. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 best assisted opening knives made in the USA. These knives combine cutting-edge technology with high-quality materials to offer exceptional performance.
1. Benchmade Griptilian 551
Overview:
The Benchmade Griptilian 551 is one of the most iconic assisted-opening knives made in the USA. Benchmade is known for its precision and craftsmanship, and the Griptilian 551 showcases this with its ergonomic design and robust functionality. Featuring Benchmade’s patented AXIS Assist mechanism, the knife opens quickly and smoothly with a push of the thumb stud.
Key Features:
- Blade Material: 154CM stainless steel.
- Handle: Noryl GTX, which is both lightweight and durable.
- Lock Mechanism: AXIS lock system with assisted opening.
- Blade Length: 3.45 inches.
Why It’s Great:
The Griptilian 551 is praised for its versatility and ease of use. Whether you’re using it for everyday carry or outdoor tasks, the smooth assisted opening and comfortable grip make it a reliable choice. Additionally, the 154CM stainless steel blade ensures edge retention and resistance to corrosion.
2. Kershaw Blur
Overview:
Kershaw’s Blur series is a favorite among knife enthusiasts, and the Kershaw Blur Assisted Opening Knife is no exception. Known for its speed and reliability, the Blur offers one of the quickest assisted opening mechanisms on the market, thanks to its SpeedSafe technology. The anodized aluminum handle provides a solid and lightweight frame.
Key Features:
- Blade Material: Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel.
- Handle: Anodized aluminum with Trac-Tec inserts for a secure grip.
- Lock Mechanism: Liner lock with SpeedSafe assisted opening.
- Blade Length: 3.4 inches.
Why It’s Great:
The Kershaw Blur is renowned for its speed and smooth deployment. The knife’s lightweight design, combined with its robust construction, makes it a great all-around tool for both tactical and everyday carry purposes. The anodized aluminum handle ensures a secure and comfortable grip even in wet conditions.
3. CRKT M16-14SFG
Overview:
The CRKT M16-14SFG is a tactical knife that features an assisted opening mechanism and a sleek, durable design. Part of the CRKT M16 series, which is designed by the legendary knife maker Kit Carson, this knife is built for those who need a tough, reliable tool for heavy-duty tasks.
Key Features:
- Blade Material: 8Cr13MoV stainless steel.
- Handle: Anodized aluminum with a textured finish for a secure grip.
- Lock Mechanism: AutoLAWKS safety system with assisted opening.
- Blade Length: 3.9 inches.
Why It’s Great:
With its rugged design and tactical functionality, the CRKT M16-14SFG is ideal for military personnel, law enforcement, or anyone in need of a tough, reliable knife. The AutoLAWKS safety system ensures the blade stays locked in place when open, preventing accidental closure during use.
4. Zero Tolerance 0350
Overview:
Zero Tolerance (ZT) is known for making high-performance knives, and the ZT 0350 is a prime example. This compact and powerful knife features an assisted opening system, making it quick to deploy with a simple flick of the thumb. Its robust frame and premium materials make it ideal for those seeking a serious, durable blade.
Key Features:
- Blade Material: S30V stainless steel for excellent edge retention.
- Handle: G10 handle for a solid, grippy feel.
- Lock Mechanism: Lockbar stabilizer with SpeedSafe assisted opening.
- Blade Length: 3.25 inches.
Why It’s Great:
The ZT 0350 is known for its strength and precision. The S30V blade steel is ideal for maintaining sharpness, while the G10 handle ensures a secure, ergonomic grip. The SpeedSafe mechanism allows for fast deployment, and the knife is built to handle tough tasks in demanding environments.
5. SOG Flash II
Overview:
The SOG Flash II is another excellent assisted-opening knife, designed with precision and practicality in mind. With its sleek design, lightweight construction, and fast deployment, it’s a popular choice for anyone who needs a reliable blade for tactical or everyday carry purposes.
Key Features:
- Blade Material: AUS-8 stainless steel.
- Handle: Glass-reinforced nylon with a comfortable grip.
- Lock Mechanism: SOG’s assisted opening with the S.A.T. (SOG Assisted Technology).
- Blade Length: 3.5 inches.
Why It’s Great:
The Flash II’s slim, lightweight design makes it an excellent option for everyday carry, while its solid build ensures that it can handle tough cutting tasks. The assisted opening feature allows the blade to open smoothly and quickly with minimal effort, making it ideal for quick access.
6. Buck Knives 283 Bantam BLW
Overview:
The Buck Knives 283 Bantam BLW offers a streamlined, compact design with a reliable assisted opening mechanism. Known for its value and performance, Buck Knives is a trusted brand in the knife industry, and the Bantam BLW offers the ideal balance of portability, strength, and functionality.
Key Features:
- Blade Material: 420HC stainless steel.
- Handle: Synthetic handle for a lightweight, comfortable grip.
- Lock Mechanism: Lockback mechanism with assisted opening.
- Blade Length: 2.75 inches.
Why It’s Great:
The Buck Bantam BLW is a compact, lightweight knife that offers solid performance for both everyday carry and recreational use. It’s ideal for people who need a simple yet reliable tool. Its 420HC steel blade is easy to maintain, and the knife’s small size makes it easy to carry.
7. Spyderco Manix 2 Lightweight
Overview:
Spyderco is known for its innovative designs and commitment to quality, and the Manix 2 Lightweight is no exception. This knife features a Ball Bearing Lock system combined with an assisted opening, providing excellent reliability and speed.
Key Features:
- Blade Material: CPM S30V stainless steel.
- Handle: Fiberglass-reinforced nylon (FRN).
- Lock Mechanism: Ball Bearing Lock system with assisted opening.
- Blade Length: 3.37 inches.
Why It’s Great:
The Spyderco Manix 2 Lightweight offers a perfect balance of performance, weight, and durability. The S30V steel ensures excellent edge retention, and the Ball Bearing Lock provides enhanced safety and smooth opening action. It’s a great choice for those who need a high-performance blade with an ergonomic, lightweight design.
8. Gerber Fastball
Overview:
The Gerber Fastball is a precision-built assisted opening knife that combines sleek design with high-quality materials. Its smooth operation, thanks to the B.O.S.S. (Ball Bearing Opening System), makes it one of the fastest-opening knives available.
Key Features:
- Blade Material: CPM-S30V stainless steel.
- Handle: Aluminum for a lightweight yet durable design.
- Lock Mechanism: Frame lock with assisted opening via the B.O.S.S. system.
- Blade Length: 3.5 inches.
Why It’s Great:
The Gerber Fastball is known for its quick and smooth deployment, thanks to the B.O.S.S. system. The CPM-S30V blade ensures durability and edge retention, while the lightweight aluminum handle offers a secure, comfortable grip. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a sleek, high-performance assisted opening knife.
9. CRKT Pilar III
Overview:
The CRKT Pilar III is a robust and versatile assisted opening knife that features a sleek, compact design. Known for its high-quality craftsmanship and sturdy build, this knife is ideal for both everyday carry and more rugged tasks.
Key Features:
- Blade Material: 12C27 stainless steel.
- Handle: Stainless steel frame lock with textured scales for added grip.
- Lock Mechanism: Frame lock with assisted opening.
- Blade Length: 2.40 inches.
Why It’s Great:
The Pilar III’s compact size and sturdy design make it a great choice for EDC. The blade’s high-quality stainless steel ensures sharpness and durability, while the frame lock and assisted opening system provide easy and reliable deployment.
10. Boker Plus Strike
Overview:
The Boker Plus Strike is a tactical-style assisted opening knife with a distinctive design. Built for strength and durability, this knife is great for tactical use or general-purpose tasks where a fast, reliable opening is essential.
Key Features:
- Blade Material: AUS-8 stainless steel.
- Handle: Aluminum with a rubberized grip for secure handling.
- Lock Mechanism: Liner lock with assisted opening.
- Blade Length: 3.25 inches.
Why It’s Great:
The Boker Plus Strike offers an ergonomic design and robust build, making it a reliable choice for various tasks. Its sleek profile and quick-opening mechanism make it a versatile tool for both tactical and everyday carry situations.
Conclusion
Assisted opening knives made in the USA are known for their innovation, quality, and performance. The knives on this list represent the best that American craftsmanship has to offer, with each one excelling in its own unique way. Whether you’re a collector, a tactical enthusiast, or someone in need of a reliable everyday carry knife, these top 10 models provide a wide range of options to suit different preferences and needs.
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