Is an OTF style switchblade weak by design?

Question

If this is true, then why are both single and double action OTF's so popular with police and the military? You get a better grip than with a side opener. I know they are illegal, but so is a cop stopping you on the street and giving you a pat-down with no probable cause.

Answer 1

Hey buddy,

Why would you risk ruining your life and career carrying an automatic knife when there are conventional knives which can open just as quickly on the draw?  (See below.)  With a little practice, just about any knife can be just as quick.

Police can stop you for all kinds of reasons especially when you are in a car, but even when you're a pedestrian.  The reason is called a pretext, and it becomes irrelevant once evidence of a crime has been found.

See below.

Answer 2

you get what you pay for.  there are some extremely durable OTF knives on the market, but get ready to spend several hundred dollars for a good one.  take a look at kabars TDI law enforcement knives, they will actually send you a free video, explaining why these new designs outperform any collapsible knife available.  and for a lot less.

https://www.kabar.com/product_search.jsp...

Answer 3

Not really. If used in a self-defense situation, it'll do the job (cut a crook off you, your wallet, or gun) and you won't break or bend it. Try not to cut heavy stuff that would put strain on your blade. Plus, most OTF switchblades are spring-loaded, which sidesteps the ban on switchblades. In my state, you can carry these as long as you have your Concealed Carry Permit on your person. Check your laws since if you're talking about buying one, you can carry one. Companies restrict sales of switchblades to LE and Military to avoid shipping hassles.

Answer 4

I collect auto knives, and while there's some room for debate over which has the stronger action, it still boils down to the quality and construction of the knives in question. I have a few swing guards that lock up tighter than my Buck 110 conversion does!

As far as the OTF's made by Dalton are some great, entry level quality knives, you can get a decent one for around $125. When you get into the Microtech knives, you have the best money can buy OTF on the market. Entry level price for a Microtech OTF is around $275 for a Microtech ultratech BB.

http://www.theknifeauction.com/item.php?...

It's another case of getting what you pay for. The cheap low end knives will not perform as well, or as long, as a high end knife will.

If you want a good quality every day carry auto knife, get a Boker Magnum

http://www.theknifeauction.com/item.php?...

I've carried one for years, it holds an edge well, and has never failed to open.  

Answer 5

Yes an OTF is inherently weaker than a side opener just as a side opener is inherently weaker than a sheath knife

It has nothing to do with popularity but with the manufacturing capabilities of the knife

OTFs are more popular because for one thing they look cooler for another they are easier to open in greatly confined areas

And as a side note

It is not illegal for a cop to stop and search you for just about any reason they can think up

Research "Terry Stop"

And in my state switch blades are not illegal