Would You Carry a Switchblade? We Rank the Best EDC Options

If your jurisdiction allows, there are a few things to look for in a switchblade you plan to make your everyday carry. From blade shape to handle ergonomics, there’s plenty to consider when choosing the right out-the-front or side-opening automatic for you.

Featured Knives
0:00 David wants to buy an automatic EDC
20:15 The Final Four

#KnifeCenter

Social Links:

Sign up for our newsletter:

Browse our full catalog:

[arrowheadguys]

This is the video I've been waiting for! Not the automatics, but more of an impromptu rummaging through the warehouse for knives kind of thing. Even though it was obviously planned out the feel of randomness was excellent.

I'm guessing the Hogue. Side-opening autos get old fast. Gotta have an OTF.

[excat]

The answer is easy. All 4. There's 7 days in a week. 4 for auto - 1 for fixed - 2 for flippers/traditional, and if you carry a backup, that's 14 opportunities a week to mix it up!

[Tzodie]

Well, this was pretty much an amazing video, and a great change of pace.

Would love to see a prep video where you go through the knife choosing process when presented with questions and even new knives of the week.

[jerrypomroy]

I think this would be a good Segway into a new running segment. “What would DCA choose?” This was fun and similar to something I asked for a few KniFAQs back (Having DCA, Seth & even Thomas present 3 knives of their fav choices for a specific reason). Thanks, this was fun.

I voted the SOG because I tend to think side opening Autos are more practical for EDC AND David now has a little one running around and that mechanism seems very small childproof. But I would choose the Hogue personally for myself. I don’t have an OTF.

[DylanLey]

Would love to see more of this type of video! I personally would go with the CLA!

[Mjln]

I would go with the Benchmade CLA. I just like the lines of the knife overall and the appearance of the scales.

[FoxMacLeod]

I really enjoyed getting to follow David around during knife selection!

[kevinschlub]

First off, congrats for getting moved in, a very major life event that I hope I never have to go through again, ever! As for the pick, I’ll keep it short and sweet. I love my black/black CLA, best knife I’ve ever owned, and I’ve had a few in my almost 70 years on this strange planet. Stay well.

[heavychevy]

im just starting the video, but for myself, i recently purchased a gerber propel auto from u guys as a daily carry, to replace a crkt m16 (retiring the crkt for sentimental reasons as my late father gave it to me & hes gone now so im puttin it up) & i absolutly love the new gerber, & i love the safety feature of locking the blade closed, i didnt know i wanted that feature, but now i cant live without it... & the grip of that g10! ...this thing will never slip outta ur hands... i will admit, im a long time gerber fan, & they naile this one! thanx guys

[xmcerer]

Knifecenter, just want to say thanks for educating me on Knives, I love your videos and look forward to them. Unlike some other YouTubers who post about Knives, you get straight to the point and are simple to understand. Thank you!

[Techsupportguy]

Thanks David, just bought the Kershaw Launch. Already have 5 knives getting delivered this week, was trying to let the card cool off. Knew I shouldn't have watched this video lol. Thanks for the great content keep it up!!!

[caseyparker]

I believe I would choose the SOG-Terminus AU. I really like cross-bar locks and the fact that it's an auto is an added bonus.

[LadyPictureShow]

Had a cla 4300, I bought on impulse after handling it for the first time. Loved it. Carried it every day, everywhere. So light, quick, smooth, and comfortable that I completely forgot about her when I was in line at the airport security line. Panicked and got out of line to ask a security guard what to do. He replied, "Do you want to catch your flight? Give it here." That's been about 6 months ago. I'm tempted by the godson, but I'm sure on the CLA.

[jessec]

Great video. I have the Boker Karakurt made by Hogue, so it's USA made, and its awesome. It's small enough not to scare anyone but the the handle and ergos are amazing. Can't ever go wrong with Vox.

[poncho]

I’ve wondered for years why 154cm and aluminum had settled in as the standard for side opening autos. That said, it’s nice to see more options in steel over the last couple years from brands like Protech. Also I appreciate Benchmade going with the more lightweight handle options although the price doesn’t exactly reflect it with something like the shootout.

[charlesdudek]

I think DCA will go with the Benchmade CLA. To me it looks like the nicest of the final 4.

[treyh]

Go with the Hogue Compound, a truly underrated OTF!

[WillShowmaker]

Fun video, My everyday carry is an Emerson with the hook. One handed opens upon deployment, no button to play with or spring to wear out. Just love it, try it you’ll like it.

[jonhughes]

Hello DCA, top two contenders: Side opener - Benchmade CLA, OTF - Hogue Compound. Ant the Winner is Hoque Compound because OTF and blade quality

[moleb]

I'd get the Hogue Compound. Hogues are ground to perfection, have good ergos, and I must admit I'm a sucker for their clip point! Unfortunately, autos are completely illegal here in Germany (but a man can dream...).