An assisted opening knife is a knife with a spring that applies tension to the blade once it is opened partially, springing it open with no further action from the user.
It is not the same as a conventional folding knife, wherein the user must open the blade manually, nor is it the same as an automatic knife (AKA, an “auto”) which uses a button or lever and spring to fully open the knife once the button or lever is depressed.
With that said, assisted opening knives occupy a middle ground – yet your collection should still have at least one. Here are the best reasons why.
They’re Fast
An assisted opening knife is going to open fast – as fast as a regular folding knife and sometimes (but not always) as fast as an auto.
You Can Use Them One-Handed
Unlike so many other types of folding knives, and like an auto, you can easily use an assisted opening knife with one hand – which is one of their strongest selling points. Most can also not just be opened but also closed with one hand.
They’re Easier to Learn How to Use
Conventional folding knives that have thumb studs or holes or flipper tabs are designed to be deployed one-handed, and they can be, but for some users, there is a steep learning curve. Assisted opening knives are a lot easier to learn how to use.
They’re Not As Restricted As Autos
Automatic knives (and gravity knives) are highly restricted according to location, with some jurisdictions banning them entirely. In most areas (but not all, consult your local laws) assisted opening knives are not subject to the same draconian regulations.
They’re Simpler Than Autos
Internally, an assisted opening knife is likely to be a lot simpler than an automatic knife, which means there’s less design complexity to present an opportunity for failure. It also makes them a lot easier to use and, where applicable, to take apart and maintain.
They’re Often Fairly Affordable
There are some really cheap assisted openers out there, and some of them are low-cost but deliver a lot of value. Autos however, tend to be expensive. If you want a knife that offers some of the relative virtues of an auto at a lower price, go with an assisted opener.
They’re Fidget-Friendly
Just like other automatic knives, assisted openers tend to be fairly fidget-friendly, which increases their appeal for a lot of users.
Where to Get Your Next Assisted Opening Knife
Hopefully you agreed with most of the reasons detailed here. If you’re sold that you need a new assisted opening knife, now you just need to know where to go to get one.
Visit BudK. They carry a wide range of unique knives including autos, assisted openers, trench knives, and a whole bunch of other really cool designs.
Visit their website to discover a whole bunch of interesting knives and daggers, and get in touch with them if you have any questions.
