It took me a while to get behind automatic knives. In fact, if I wasn’t gifted a Benchmade AFO II many moons ago, I may never have started using it. Automatics are complicated and if something goes wrong with them, you could be left with a paperweight when you really need a reliable knife (thankfully, that hasn’t happened to me yet).
Then there’s the legality issue. You need to know the laws where you are when you’re carrying one or you could end up in some hot water with authorities. Pro tip: the LegalBlade app by KnifeRights and Blade HQ are essential knife law resources. Even with these potential drawbacks, I’ve come to accept automatic knives into my blade collection. I use and carry them often; I appreciate their performance and the vibe that comes along with it.
But there remains one form of automatics that always feels more like a weapon more than a tool — to the point that I have never considered them an EDC. I’m talking about the OTF — “out the front” — automatic. At least, that’s what I thought until I took on the challenge of using an OTF auto as my EDC.
For the last month, Benchmade’s Shootout OTF has been my pocket-carry taskmaster. In that time, I have come to appreciate the nuances of this auto — in both its form and function. The Shootout OTF is an exciting knife to use that can make it appealing to users of different backgrounds and expertise. But, is it an EDC? Read on to find out.
In short: Benchmade’s Shootout is a double-action out-the-front knife. Although it faces the same legal scrutiny as a standard automatic, it’s twice as fun to use and carry. But is it a good EDC option? After a serious amount of testing, I think so.
- OAL: 8.22”
- Blade length: 3.51”
- Blade steel: CPM-CruWear
- Blade coating: PVD
- Blade shape: Tanto
- Grind: Low and flat
- Hardness: 63-65 HRC
- Lock type: Double-action spine fire
- Carry: Deep, left or right hand, tip-down
- Weight: 2.8 oz.
- Price: $350
Pros
- Lightweight construction
- Double action, spine fire functionality
- Pro-level fidget factor
- CPM-CruWear steel
- Textured grivory handle casing
Cons
- Not for twisting, turning, or prying
- Pro-level fidget factor
Benchmade Shootout OTF Knife Review
Design & Features
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What’s in a Name?
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First Impressions
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‘Accidental Fire’ Test
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In the Field
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Conclusion
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