The vast majority of knives are either fixed blades or folders with an out the side configuration. However, some automatic knives or “autos,” and some gravity knives take the form of an OTF knife, which design confers a few benefits to the bearer.
If you’re looking for a new one (or just your first one) read this first.
Why an OTF Knife?
First off, the OTF in OTF knife stands for “out the front” which is a reference to the blade deployment mechanism.
Most folding knives are OTS, or “out the side,” which means that the blade swings on a pivot system and folds inward towards the handle. In an OTF knife, the blade comes out the front, in a linear fashion, rather than swinging around a pivot mechanism.
Some OTF knives, especially spring-assisted OTF knives, feature very rapid deployment mechanisms and can be sprung out much more quickly than some of their out the side counterparts.
There is also the aesthetic to consider, which is another reason that OTF knives are so popular.
If you’re not sure if you’d be better served by an OTF or out the side knife, read on.
OTF vs. Out the Side: Similarities and Differences
Obviously the main difference in an OTF knife is that the blade comes out the front. This eliminates the pivot mechanism of an out the side folder, which is one potential point of failure.
Some OTF knives are spring assisted but others are gravity-fed. All in all, gravity knives can be deployed just as quickly as spring-assisted knives (with a flick of the wrist) and since they also lack the opening mechanism, are simpler and less prone to failure.
As for out the side knives, for the most part, they are not as easy to deploy as quickly as OTF knives, though some can be. As stated, the increased complexity results in a knife that requires more maintenance.
Another thing about the design of an OTF knife is that it is inherently effective in close quarters. Since the blade comes out the front, you don’t really need any clearance to open it. At the same time, most OTF knives don’t offer the same thrusting potential as OTS knives with a good lock.
The one big thing between OTF knives and out the side folders is that the locks of out the side knives tend to be stronger. There are some OTF knives with very strong locks, but as a general rule, an out the side folder with a strong lock like a frame lock or a bar lock is going to be much stronger.
Other Considerations
Two other things you need to consider with an OTF knife are the optics and the legality. For one, they are intimidating to people that don’t carry knives, so doing so in public may earn you some side eye.
As for legality, there are states in which OTF folders, automatic knives, and gravity knives are illegal to carry, so be aware of that before buying or carrying one.
Where to Get Your Next OTF Knife
In the market for a new OTF knife? Whether it’s your first or your fifth, take a look at what’s available over at True Swords.
Don’t let the name fool you, True Swords is much more than just swords. They carry a wide range of other replicas including functional tools, among which are many knives.
They also carry a respectable collection of unique OTF knives which will certainly catch your attention.
Take a look through their catalog and if you have any questions, get in touch with them – they’d be happy to help or even make recommendations.
