Folding knives that lock are generally lumped into one of two categories: manual knives and automatic knives, or autos.
Manual knives are those that must be opened via thumb studs or a flipper. Automatic knives or autos are knives that can be opened with the push of a button or a lever.
An auto does not require any flipping or “wrist action” from the user. There are internal springs that open the blade automatically when the deployment mechanism is engaged, hence the name.
There are also some distinct advantages to owning a push button automatic knife, some of the best of which will be covered here.
Fast Deployment
With a good, strong detent, a flipper tab, and quite a bit of practice, you can open a manual knife really fast. In some instances almost as fast as an auto.
But the catch is that it takes a lot of practice. Don’t expect to be fast with a manual folder out of the gate. Some people find it much more challenging than others.
With an auto, deployment is fast, faster than with a manual knife, and there’s nothing to get used to or practice. You just push a button and the knife opens. That’s it – it’s the best for when you need a knife in a flash – barring fixed blades.
Guaranteed One-Handed Operation
There are many styles of folding knives (nail nick blades come to mind) that cannot be opened without the use of both hands.
Granted, there are many knives that have flippers or thumb studs or thumb holes that are designed to be opened with one hand, and many can be.
But with a push button automatic knife, that’s foregone. They’re not only intended to be opened with one hand, they effectively can’t be opened with two.
They’re absolutely ideal in situations in which only one hand is free for deployment.
No Learning Curve
As stated, it takes a bit of practice to get good with a manual folding knife. There’s no learning curve with a push button automatic knife. You just unbox the thing and push the button; boom, open knife. Nothing to get used to there.
Strong Locks
You might think the internal complexity of most push button autos actually works against the strength of the lock but that’s not entirely true. In fact, in many cases, the locks of automatic knives are as strong or stronger than their other folding counterparts. This makes them ideal for daily carry and a variety of practical applications.
Versatility
Carrying a push button automatic knife is about more than just functionality. Naturally they can be used for EDC and general utility, like cutting up boxes or preparing bait. But they can also be carried practically as a back up or for other applications, even those that are defensive.
More Flash Factor
Lastly, there’s something cool about a push button automatic knife that just isn’t there on a manual option. People may carry them and fidget with them because they’re fun to carry and offer fidget-friendly form factor paired with functionality, along with an attractive aesthetic. It wouldn’t be the first instance of a person choosing a knife based on appearance rather than features.
Where to Get a Push Button Automatic Knife to Add to Your Collection
Want to know where you can get a push button automatic knife to add to your collection? (or your pocket?) Get it online at BudK. They carry a wide range of autos along with other unique knives, daggers, swords and tools. Check out their collection and get in touch with them if you have any questions.
