Microtech Knives

Microtech Knives has been producing high-precision cutting tools since 1994. The company built its name on out-the-front automatic knives and has never really strayed far from that focus. What separates them from most production knife makers is a straightforward commitment: manufacture everything in-house, hold tight tolerances, and back every knife with a lifetime warranty. That combination is rare at the production level.

Collectors know the brand. Military and law enforcement personnel carry the brand. And thanks to some high-profile appearances on screen, a whole new audience has discovered them. Whatever brought you here, you’re looking at one of the most technically consistent production knife makers operating today.

Brand Story

Microtech’s inception began in an apartment in Vero Beach, Florida, where founder and CEO Anthony Marfione and Susan Marfione’s vision for better knives first took shape. That was 1994. The Ultratech launched in 1999 and became one of the most popular and beloved models in the lineup. It still is today.

After Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the company moved to Bradford, Pennsylvania, then later set up its current headquarters near Asheville, North Carolina, in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Microtech utilizes exclusively American-made manufacturing, materials, and labor, and more than 95% of all components are manufactured in-house, directly by them. Every knife produced in their facility is sharpened by hand, and rigorous testing and research ensure they meet impeccably close tolerances and extremely high standards of quality.

Microtech primarily uses Böhler M390, a high-performance stainless steel with excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. The company also offers Böhler M390MK, an exclusive variation with slightly improved edge retention. That kind of material investment at the production level signals how seriously they take the product.

Product Lineup

OTF Knives

Since 1994, Microtech’s innovative out-the-front knives have been the bedrock of their product offerings. The double-action OTF mechanism is what defines the brand for most people: push the thumb slide forward to deploy, push it back to retract. The Ultratech debuted in 1999 and remains the most popular model, featuring a secure pocket clip, a hard-hitting double-action mechanism, and many handle and blade configurations. The Dirac and Exocet are more compact options in this category, aimed squarely at EDC carry.

Automatic Knives

Beyond OTF automatics, Microtech also produces side-opening automatic knives. The LUDT (Large Underwater Demolition Team) is a single-action side-open that offers a more traditional switchblade-style operation. The Socom Elite combines functionality with an ergonomic design, making it a favourite among military personnel and outdoor enthusiasts alike. These are built for people who want fast deployment without the OTF form factor.

Manual Folding Knives

Whether you’re a casual camper or professional lineman, the selection of dependable folding knives is built to get the job done. In 2023, Microtech introduced the Ram-Lok locking system, which functions like a crossbar lock. The MSI (Microtech Standard Issue) and Stitch Ram-Lok were the first to feature this system and the exclusive M390MK steel. These are serious pocket folders, not entry-level tools.

Fixed Blade Knives

Their heavy-duty fixed blades come with a Kydex sheath and unparalleled durability. Many of the fixed blades are collaborations with popular knife designers. The Iconic is the result of Microtech and Bastinelli Creations teaming up to craft an effective karambit, and the SBD is a wide, double-edged dagger designed by Sebastijan Berenji of Borka Blades. Full-tang construction throughout.

Tactical and EDC Knives

The Combat Troodon is a staple in the OTF lineup and boasts performance and style not seen in other out-the-front automatics. The ergonomic grip makes it suitable for hard use, while the double-action OTF mechanism makes it a solid choice for everyday carry. For something more compact, the UTX-70 is worth considering. The UTX-70 is the most compact out-the-front automatic knife on the market, getting its name from being 70% the size of the Ultratech.

Custom Knives

The Marfione Custom line operates alongside the standard production range. These are hand-finished pieces with bespoke materials, serialised and dated. Limited runs, higher price points, strong collector demand. If you’re after one of the custom sets, availability is sporadic and they move fast.

Kitchen Knives

Microtech’s kitchen line applies the same manufacturing discipline to culinary tools. Precision-ground blades, premium steel, and a level of finish you don’t typically see in kitchen cutlery. These are not marketed as chef’s tools for home cooks. They’re for people who take edge geometry and steel quality as seriously at the dinner table as they do in the field.

Why We Stock Microtech

At No Boring Guns, we stock Microtech products because European buyers have consistently asked for them and finding a reliable EU source has historically been difficult. Importing directly from the US means delays, customs complications, and uncertain pricing. We handle all of that so you don’t have to. Microtech knives price points vary across the lineup, from more accessible production models up to premium custom pieces, so there’s a realistic entry point whether you’re buying your first quality automatic or adding to an established collection. All pricing on our site is shown in €, duties paid, ready to ship. If you’re in Europe and want Microtech knives for sale without the import headache, this is the straightforward option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is so special about Microtech knives?

Microtech is famous for its precision-engineered Out-the-Front (OTF) mechanisms. Their “dual-spring” design prevents spring fatigue, ensuring the blade fires reliably even after thousands of cycles. They use premium materials like Böhler M390MK steel and 6061-T6 aluminum, held to surgical tolerances. While proprietary screws make them hard to take apart, this protects the internal mechanics and is backed by a lifetime warranty.

What Microtech did John Wick use?

The Microtech Combat Troodon was featured in John Wick 2 and remains a top seller for Microtech. It is a double-action out-the-front (OTF) automatic knife that stands out for its sleek design. Built for a variety of utility and close-quarter combat situations, the Combat Troodon is a favorite among law enforcement, United States Armed Forces, and first responder service personnel. Its popularity predates the films and hasn’t slowed down since.

Are Microtech knives illegal?

The knives themselves are not illegal by nature. One of the ongoing challenges for the brand has been navigating the legal landscape surrounding automatic knives. Laws regarding the ownership and carry of automatic knives vary by state and country, making it essential to stay informed and compliant with ever-changing regulations. In Europe specifically, automatic knife rules differ country by country and sometimes region by region. OTF and spring-assisted mechanisms are the categories most commonly restricted. Manual folding knives and fixed blades used for legitimate purposes are generally treated more permissively, though blade length limits still apply in many jurisdictions. Always check the laws where you live before purchasing.

Are Microtech knives made in China?

Most Microtech knives are made in the USA at facilities in North Carolina and Pennsylvania. They produce over 95% of their parts in-house to maintain strict quality control. However, they do have a specific line of knives, including the Socom Bravo and Anax, manufactured in China by Rikeknife. These are Microtech designs produced overseas to offer different price points or materials.