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Besides the Bowie knife, no other knife may be as iconic as the switchblade. It was both popularized and villainized in the 1950s through the Greaser subculture. Despite their reputation, these knives are more popular than ever. Although usually characterized as defensive weapons, they are great for EDC purposes.
With that in mind, let’s look at the switchblade. We’ll look at some of the legal definitions and the history. And we’ll give our top picks for the best switchblade knives manufactured today.
Know Your State Laws
The only relevant national law is the Federal Switchblade Act, which covers interstate commerce and manufacture. Unfortunately, the hysteria around crime and Greasers in the 1950s led to a bevy of convoluted and unnecessary state-level knife laws throughout the United States. Fortunately, many states have started to recognize that these laws are antiquated. Many have or are in the process of repealing them. Only a few states, like Hawaii, Delaware, Washington, and New Mexico, outlaw entirely all possession of switchblade knives.
The laws can get confusing quickly. Some states allow people to own switchblade knives but not to carry them, concealed or otherwise. Other states are highly specific about the types of mechanisms that are legal to deploy the blade. Some states allow knives but restrict their length to 3 inches and under.
Other regulations prohibit double-edged blades or switchblades that deploy the blade in an OTF (out the front) style. In truth, there are too many laws and regulations to list them all here. We recommend checking the latest updates on local laws before buying any switchblade or automatic.
Key Considerations
Finding a quality switchblade is challenging because there’s a proliferation of cheap, poorly made knives. Unfortunately, switchblades often have a poor reputation because people base their experience on crummy flea market and county fair knives. These knives are incredibly complex in their operation, especially double-action blades. Getting a quality one often means spending a little bit more money.
- Internals: I included knives from only trusted knifemakers with a reputation for high-quality internals. The knife must have strong springs built for the abuse of repeated openings and closings.
- Safeties: I considered options for only out-the-side (OTS) knives with a safety system. This prevents the blade from accidentally opening and injuring the user while being carried in a pocket.
- External Components: The internals of this type of knife are under constant tension. Thus, I looked for knives with heavy-duty external components that could handle the stress. All buttons, levers, and thumb studs needed to be robust enough to deploy the blade safely.
- Budget: Unfortunately, the words “quality switchblade” and “budget-priced” aren’t very compatible. After extensive searching, I concluded that the most affordable switchblades are in the $60-$100 range. One must spend a little extra to get a quality auto knife.
Top Picks
- Best Overall: Benchmade Auto Fact
- Best Budget: Boker Plus Strike
- Best Tactical: Microtech Ultratech OTF
- Most Stiletto Style: Kershaw Launch 8
- Best OTF: Benchmade Mini Claymore Ranger
Best Overall: Benchmade Auto Fact
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The Auto Fact is like a modernized take on a classic Italian switchblade. I found that this knife had a fast, meaty, and crisp opening upon operating the auto AXIS lock. This locking system is entirely ambidextrous. I had no issues opening the blade, even with my non-dominant left hand. The edge was sharp from the factory, and the retention of the blade is excellent. It won’t need to be sharpened often, thanks to the S90V steel. This knife is a good catch-all for EDC and self-defense purposes. I like the simple spearpoint blade, which will be legal in places with double-edged restrictions.
This knife is on the higher end of the budget because of the steel type and aluminum and carbon fiber handle. The safety’s low profile sometimes makes it difficult to engage. However, this is the lightest and easiest-to-carry automatic I’ve ever used. It’s a knife that’s truly worth the price of admission.
Best Budget: Boker Plus Strike
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Finding an automatic switchblade under the $200 mark is a real challenge. The Boker has an MSRP of around $90, but it’s usually available for $50–$65. This knife is perfect for anyone who works with their hands every day. It’s rugged enough to handle various EDC tasks but won’t be as painful if it goes missing. Boker offers this knife with Tanto, partially serrated, and drop-point blade styles. We appreciate that last offer. It’s a great EDC blade style that will be legal in more areas than a spear or double-edge blade will. The D2 steel is an excellent option for manual workers. It keeps a good edge while not being overly challenging to sharpen.
There are some reports of play in the blade when locked. The finish is also likely to flake off the handle over time. However, neither affects the performance of the blade that much. This fast, reliable EDC switchblade won’t break the bank.
Best Tactical: Microtech Ultratech OTF
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When it comes to high-end knives, Microtech is a standout. This double-action out-the-front (OTF) knife is incredibly crisp and fast. It’s little wonder that so many members of law enforcement and the armed services like to carry one. The double action allows seamless opening and closing with only one hand. Microtech builds single- and double-edge options, so there’s something for everyone’s preferences. It’s worth paying a little extra money for the M390 steel variant because it’s ridiculously sharp out of the box. Re-sharpening is difficult because of the steel type, but it is also rarely necessary.
It's because of the steel type that this knife is so expensive. However, it’s an ingenious design. This knife has a little more longevity in the design because the spring isn’t under constant tension.
Most Stiletto Style: Kershaw Launch 8
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The Launch 8 is a modernized take on the classic Italian stiletto. We love the look, especially with the carbon fiber inlay. This knife snaps open fast and with authority. It might be enough to intimidate a would-be attacker just on appearance alone. The price point of this knife is fantastic, considering the quality of CPM 154 powdered steel. It will hold an exceptional edge for most EDC tasks. Amazingly, Kershaw got a knife of this size down to just 2.4 ounces, making it a true joy to carry all day.
Some users have reported issues with the pocket clip bending. However, this problem is easy to fix, and the knife is set up to be completely ambidextrous. We also love the simple and ergonomic handle. This stiletto is an excellent option for anyone with large hands.
Best OTF: Benchmade Mini Claymore Ranger
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The Mini Claymore is a new Benchmade offering, and it’s one of the coolest knives that I’ve ever tested. This is an excellent option for anyone who wants a knife with an intimidation factor for defense. It’s fast and reliable. I worked the double action hundreds of times during my testing with no issues. The blade is quick and locks into place with authority every time. During my testing, the CPM-D2 steel effortlessly pierced, sliced, and ripped cardboard. As I’ve come to expect with Benchmade knives, it had an excellent factory edge. I love the compact profile and lightweight construction. It carries effortlessly in a pocket.
Although the thumb slide was highly reliable, it needs to be pushed exceptionally far before the blade deploys. I can’t say that I’d recommend this one for someone with arthritic hands. This slide felt a little mushy at first, but it seems to be breaking in nicely the more I play with it.
How To Choose The Best Switchblade Knife
As we’ve already noted, there is a bevy of poor-quality switchblades for sale on the Internet. We highly recommend buying American- or Italian-made. (This isn't to say that other countries aren't committed to quality knives. Witness our recommendation here from Taiwan.) Don’t be afraid to put some money down for a quality switchblade. Many people get burned on cheap junk that works fine for a week before falling apart. These knives are complicated in design. They require high-end components to function for a long time, especially OTF-style blades. Spending at least $100 for a decent switchblade is not uncommon.
Actions
Most switchblades are either single-action or double-action. Single-action knives deploy the blade automatically. However, the blade must be manually folded or retracted into the handle. Conversely, a double-action knife will deploy and retract the blade through a simple button press or lever. Double-action knives are much easier to use but are extremely expensive because of the internal components.
Blade Length
Consider the blade length when choosing a knife because some states have strict legal restrictions. In some places, only knives with blades 2 or 3 inches long can be legally carried. A blade under 4 inches in a switchblade is usually adequate for EDC and defense. Quality switchblades in larger sizes are available but can become heavy and unwieldy for carry.
OTF vs. Side Opening
Knives that pop the blade out through a slot in the front are known as “out the front” or OTF knives. Side-opening knives are more like traditional folders, only with an automatic mechanism. The choice between the two is mostly a preference with some trade-offs. For example, some OTF knives are not nearly as durable as side-openers. They are also tricky to clean, and opening them can even void the warranty of some knives. However, an OTF is an excellent way to carry a double-edged knife without its being a fixed blade requiring a sheath.
Blade Types
In many places, double-edged knives are still seen and classified purely as weapons. It’s okay if carrying a self-defense knife is legal in your area. However, even if one uses it for EDC purposes only, law enforcement officials may not see it the same way if the law prohibits double edges. It’s harder to argue for practical uses when these blades excel at slashing and piercing. Thus, don’t just start carrying one without researching your state’s laws. We recommend a simple single-edge spear point for areas with restrictions on double-edging carry. Another alternative is to carry a Tanto blade, which still has good piercing power but is legal in more places.
Why Trust Us
The plague of poor-quality switchblades common at local flea markets and fairs has burned us plenty of times. I’ve also covered knives professionally for the last decade. Both experiences have helped me learn what makes a good switchblade and what’s total junk. We didn’t include any of my past buying mistakes on this list for obvious reasons. I learned the hard way, so others don’t need to do the same.
Final Thoughts
Switchblades have come a long way from the classic stilettos. It takes a little searching, but quality switchblade knives are faster, safer, and more reliable than ever. I’m a big fan of the Benchmade Auto Fact for its slick looks and lightning-fast blade. The Benchmade Claymore Mini Ranger is my runner-up based on the cool factor and its fun use. If these knives are any indication, the technology for switchblades will only continue to improve.
FAQs
Q: Who makes the best quality switchblade?
A: This is a matter of opinion, but many knife enthusiasts believe that Italian knifemakers make the best switchblades. Many manufacturers in Italy still build all their blades by hand. These knives can be hard to find in the States. Popular manufacturers here include MicroTech, Boker, Kershaw, and Benchmade.
Q: What is a true switchblade knife?
A: Switchblades are any knife that deploys quickly through the press of a button or switch. Different knives have different deployment systems. All are technically switchblades.
Q: What is the difference between a switchblade and an automatic knife?
A: Technically, there is no difference other than the timeline of their use. Switchblade is more of an old-school term. Some state laws consider a switchblade/automatic to be any knife that opens with the press of a button.
