I bought 3 Microtech’s in 2 weeks because of these test videos. An Ultratech and 2 Socom Elites. Microtech definitely chose the right guy to represent the brand.
I have an ultratech in elmax I love it my best OTF I own cause of the price always wanted the elite so it hurts to see one being destroyed instead of given to me or at least trading it to me 😢.
@@experienceprecision5406 My Microtech OTF's yes -- my Socom's No. But I do tend to beat up the Socom Elite's more than my OTF's. Great knives I still use them almost daily.
I had always thought of Microtech as another hyped up overpriced brand. Recently I saw a turquoise + stonewashed partially serrated Socom Elite Auto in a store near me and the color immediately caught my eye. As soon as I held it and felt the quality, the strength of the spring and the sharpness of the blade, I was sold. That knife has not left my side since and it never will. Truly an incredible knife.
This guy does more harm to the company than benefit. Lol and to think they actually sponsor him. I wanted to get an Ultratech until I saw his tests and saw how unreliable the things really are. Benchmade for me 👍🏻
gangsta19x You’ve gotta realize these are EXTREME torture tests. I guarantee you same results if you watch the same with Benchmade. Both are great brands and make quality knives. As owner of both Microtech and Benchmade I respect both and the quality of both are more than superb.
@@HeyGeesh I have both microtech and benchmade knives also. Actually around 20 benchmade knives and about 5 microtech knives. I promise you both are excellent knife companies but I also promise you that a benchmade will break before a microtech if you are comparing apples to apples. Trust me.
I never understood why people are against serrated edges, either. I own a couple fully serrated knives & some partially serrated ones, & I absolutely love them. If you touch up the serrations occasionally, even with hard use they'll last a lifetime. After owning about 15 Microtechs, I just ordered my first non-OTF MT about 30 mins ago: a Socom Elite manual tanto combo edge. I'm incredibly excited to test it out. I use my knives mostly for EDC tasks, but it's great to know that I can do much more with it should I choose to. 😃
My first Microtech was a manual Socom close to 20 years ago. Ended up selling it. Recently picked up a Socom elite auto. Such a great design and not suprising that it has endured 25 years.
Good test, thank you. I’ve changed my EDC blade, get-home pack blade, and bug-out pack blade to Microtech knives = basically because of these Microtech torture tests. Keep it up!
As painful as that is to watch I'm so glad you're doing this. I've been wanting a micro tech for a while but couldn't bring myself to spend the extra money. But I will be now. So thank you for torturing these. Very good and fair testing. Good stuff as always my friend
Love the video! I just bought a service knife (UMS fully serrated Ultratech) from Microtech and am super excited to receive it for duty action! Your videos just reinforce my decision to purchase one. The problem is, now I want a SOCOM 😩. Keep up the great work buddy!
Just bought a socom elite serrated drop point. $286 out the door. Fantastic knife. Ive spent 2x that in the past 10 years on junk $20-60 knives that break easily .
I got one as well right after these videos! I had issues with emersons I bought and for $200 plus for a knife I dont want issues out the box. Also liner locks have me the same issue but when I saw they put a insert into the lock I knew they are way ahead of everyone else and his tests and his knife carried for 19 years made me invest in a knife that is super quality and tough and has serrations lol. He is right about the serrations they work amazing for rope cutting or tough materials and is a more utilitarian blade in my opinion. Great video and company will be purchasing more in future.
the SOG in the wire test has a rougher edge, acting like serrations . both good knives. but I'd take the Microtech all day. I just bought a Troodon, mostly inspired by these torture tests. Great work !! please keep em coming :)
Still here watching this video over and over again. Great video. My socom elites are the sharpest knives out of the box I've ever bought. And I have lots of high end knives that are much more expensive. But my tanto socom elite is just lethal. That's my daily carry for everything. And hopefully I never have to use my knife for self defense but if I ever have to my tanto socom is a knife I know I can depend my life on. And like I said I wouldn't want to be on the other side of that lethal tanto.
A friend of mine but one of these on the internet and the guys holding it for me till next week almost backed out of it but when I seen this video that's what made me decide that I'm going to buy it. Nice review I'm glad to be getting the manual instead of the auto!
I keep telling people that when the SHTF you will appreciate those serrations. Your test proves the point! Young guys seem to uniformly hate it though.
Outstanding You are exactly right you get what you pay for, most of the time. Fantastic knife for sure. Thank you. Sincerely you're friend from MO RICK. God bless you and you're family and God bless America and the Republic
Wow Ray, great video. You done made me order one...Marfione Custom SOCOM Elite Warcom Two-Tone Stonewash Finish Anodized Alloy With Stingray Skin Inlay Satin Hardware & Blue Titanium Thumb flipper accent. This will be my show off knife 😉 Once my dealer gets regular production ones in stock, I’ll be grabbing one of those to use as a beater 👍
I ended up watching a video of you abusing a so I’m alpha mini and I was impressed but now after watching this I know for what my next folder is going to be
Lol I done the same after watching his videos and now I got 4 otf and don’t use them at all lol I will say this I got 2 clones from dhgate and they are really impressive and I do use them, and yes the clones will fail if to much oil in the tracks but hey for 30 buck idc beats paying 350+
Got my auto a few days ago and i think it's my fav Microtech (i own a Ultratech and a Troodon). I'll definetly use it as an outdoor survival knife while I'll keep my OTF's for urban self defense. By the way...when i first opened it and saw the weight on the blade against the light weight of the body I instantly thought it can be used as a throwing knife! Awesome video! Thanks!
My pleasure Adrian and thanks for watching. I would never recommend throwing any Microtech but at least you know it can be done. Kind of what these tests are all about. Thanks for watching.
@Andrew thanks for sharing your opinion. I agree that not all OTF's can be reliable in a life or death situation but Microtechs are a class of their own. The Cold Steel knives you probably reffer to are OFS's and I understand how those can have a better lock than an OTF . Never the less, I think a Microtech OTF can do the job just fine in a self defense situation . It can penetrate clothing or flesh withouth compromising the lock. On the other hand, OTS's knives can be both self defense or hard use survival tools but it is easier to carry a good quality OTF for self defense in an urban eviroment and keep my SOCOM ELITE for the woods where it can perform it's best!
RLH 42ndAMD the ceramic bearings will however corrode and are not self-cleaning like Teflon washers do. That’s why if you are going to be in to dirty environment that can gunk up your knife for an extended amount of time such as a military deployment you should opt for Teflon washers as they will self-clean all you need to do is submerge the knife in fresh water and open/close the blade a few times and you are good to go. With ceramics u’d need to open the knife up and give it a throughout cleaning or else the balls will get pitted over time creating a very grainy action, not smooth at all and left long enough you won’t be able to open the knife after it gets bad enough inside. I own a MT socom elite myself and do think it’s a great knife and have been carrying it daily for the past year at work, but just something I thought of sharing because it’s better to be aware of it than running in to the problem when your in a place you can’t really fix it up in.
I mean..I have a cold steel recon 1 Tanto and this is pretty much regular use lol...I was surprised the microtech tip broke. Regardless, still one of my grail knives.
“Do you really want to hurt me? Do you really want to make me cry?” This song played in my head the entire time he molested yes sir “molested!” That SOCOM in that 2x4..Jesus sir...I’m married with three kids and an avid knife enthusiast...it would take me months to save up for that knife. I’m not saying don’t use it but is that really necessary? Functionality is key I agree but I’m not going to take a lambo off roading to prove the obvious! Hardest thumbs up I’ve ever given.
ig- Evaid Id reply but I’m to busy with my finger down my throat. Ok microteka good deed doer...the comment was not meant to be rhetorical...it “WAS” funny until you came along and stated the obvious! But actually I do have a question just for u that would warrant actual clarification..”Do you take your cape off or leave it on when you rescue kittens out of trees?”. Jesus. Your reply to me was like someone explaining how to breath.
power play 4 real i have cold steel knives and benchmade and pohlforce and extreme ratio so its not that i dont have expensive knives is just that cold steel is really amazing knives toughest on the market not wven mentioning the price
That was impressive, and definitely a torture test. I also like to have a partial serration on my work knives, cut lots of different materials in my job. I can't believe how deep you were prying with that Microtech and it didn't break in two. Luckily I have a mini-prybar I keep with my tools for just that reason. Also, the Air Force buys all my tools and I don't like wasting taxpayer money if I don't have to. The actual pocket knife they give us is a joke, just a 2" Gerber plain edge. Have a great weekend brother!
I'd like to add one of my favorite cliches or my favorite addage, "you get what you pay for, you don't get what you don't pay for". I can't be the first one to have said that but I stand by it.
Great test and great insight! I just subscribed. M390 is a bit brittle, but it can still take a beating and sharpen up nicely. Maybe Microtech can make their next Socom run in K390, which has better edge stability and strength. That would be a perfect Socom in my books.
Love these torture tests. Microtech has been my go to knife purchase for a few years now. They just keep going and going, you threw that thing like a shuriken, but why’d you kill the tree man... lol. Subscribed and keep them tests coming...Appreciate you!!!
nearlyagoodlaugh Thank you for watching and commenting. I actually went to a wood working shop and bought them. They are cut proof level 5 liners but they are NOT stab proof. I merely wear them inside of a set of Mechanics gloves so I don’t accidentally take a trip to the hospital 😄. They were only about 12.00 but the do not have a brand name or manufacturers tag. I already threw the box away.
Ah that makes sense, I thought the outer gloves looked like Mechanix impact resistant gloves. I think I've seen the same kind of cut resistant ones then. Might try the same thing, using them as a liner. Thanks for the quick answer.
Very nice quality knife and you are right about the steels as so many blade steel snobs out there....I am still trying to warm up to a tanto style blade but Microtech's is very subtle on the tanto style....Nice job with the testing using your serrated edged blade....Good stuff....
Thanks Scott. I really like the looks of the Tanto’s but I don’t really prefer them over a drop point. Lots of times I have to do a rolling cut and the drop point seems to work best for that.
Really an excellent torture test for a great knife! I love Micros even if I carry them basically for self defense purposes only, since I'm not allowed to carry firearms where I live, unfortunately!
Imagine it against a cold steel knife lol. Kind of surprised that the SOG cant cut paper.... It has been a while since I've even bought a folder that couldn't cut paper and maybe it just needed to be angled slightly different due to a different grind? Heck regardless some of my sharpest knives out of the box were under 50 bucks. Its just higher end knives tend to be more consistently sharp though they most definitely have their flaws as well. My BM 746 didn't come crazy sharp and didn't really have the right cutting edge angle for its style. and one of my Microtechs have an uneven grind and while its sharp its no sharper than most 30-100 dollar knives I buy. That being said its no huge deal and ill just work it out whenever I sharpen it I just have no idea if the guy that sharpened it in the factory needs glasses or something. Its a dagger and one side is fairly good id consider it acceptable though not perfect. But the other side is a good bit worse especially when you compare it to the side that's not too bad.
Wow, that serrated edge cut the rope much better. I’m generally a plain edge guy and would love to see the plain edge knife sharpened on a coarse stone in the 100-250 grit range and then repeat this test. A plain edge finished on a coarse stone will have some microserrations that help it grab into and cut tough materials like the rope in this video. If a coarse-ground plain edge were put up against his partially serrated edge, it would be interesting to see what happens. If the partially serrated edge still won, I might have to try one of those out! Might actually change my mind on the serrated versus plain edge thing!
One other difference is the new socoms are on bearing systems rather than straight on the aluminum surface. The old system was probably better for the hard use because you didn't risk the bearings denting the scales or even the tang and they were more dirt resistant. The bearing dent issue is also next to irrelevant unless you're trying to pry open a door or something.
@@oXObsidianXo That's right, the elite has a steel backing plate on the scale, then a track on the tang. Steel plate is easier to replace but denting the tang is a bad one.
Hello X! I followed your review with a lot of Interest. Almost cried when the tip broke down, and was soo impressed at the end with the quality it this knife. Since I came late to the party and was aware of this model practically when the only one left I could find was one with an Elmax blade (would have liked one with M390 or 204P), I started to search the net for more info about Elmax steel, but almost every article is theoretical considering composition percentages and stuff like that. So I would like the opinion of real users of Microtech Elmax such as you, given all the Microtechs you have tested and used hard. Some people even say that Elmax is even slightly tougher than M390, other say they are very similar. So, I would greatly appreciate your opinion. Thank you very much! I’m a follower now 👍🏼
My experience with SOG over 25 years of use hasn't been that good. I surprised the hing didn't break, as the plastic flexes and I'be been able to defeat the lock with just hand pressure on the Aegis, Trident and few others. They have a big name, but their folders with plastic molded handles are accidents waiting to happen. Yes, I know, not really a fair test against the Socom. You really torture tested these two. I have great confidence in the Microtech as a result. Too bad that tip went. Probably good in the the company can analyze the issue, either in heat treating or possible impurities in the steel. Not like that's a frail tip design, either. Thanks again!
I got mine back 3 weeks to the day. They will send you a UPS notification once they ship. Great customer service. You can call them and they answer. Very friendly and helpful. Great knives and even better people!
Recon 1 tanto, will destroy these knives all day, and keep its tip. That said I do think the socom manual is awesome and probably the best thumbstud on a knife
I was on the fence about buying one of these. But after watching your video I am going to commit My only question is should I get the tanto or drop point? After seeing the how the Tantos tip stood up? Would the drop point fair any better??
Hey Melendez, I personally prefer the drop point. It it much easier to roll cut things and easier to sharpen. The tanto might have a slightly stronger tip but I would still choose the drop point.
Microtech makes really good knives, no doubt. I had a SOG lock give way on me back in the day, down in Puerto Rico during that fun winter training we used to go down there and do. I was cutting open a coconut and the lock gave - pretty bad cut, as you can imagine. For the money - don't buy a SOG - in my experience...
That's why I buy coldsteel I had a liner lock fail twice on me 2 different knife brands on Kershaw an a sog I only carry tri-add now or button lock because benchmade are overpriced micro tech seem nice but I've never paid more then $150 for a cutting tool over 200 is just insane but I like this guys tests
Would love to see you put your hands on some newer automotive glass it’s real durable stuff my boss recently tried to break his side truck window with a hammer and it took a lot of whacks would be good to see the tungsten glass breaker perform on that
I have only had my Socom Elite for 2 weeks and have not used it for anything yet that could harm it. The detent allows the blade to swing out if the knife is shaken hard in a similar way that your test knife did. While I do not think it will hurt anything, I am wondering if this is normal for the detent of a Socom Elite.
My SOCOM Elite Auto hasn't left my pocket since I got it about 3 weeks ago, and it I think it's here to stay. Just finished installing an air handler with it and after cutting fiberglass duct board, insulation, rubber gasket material, and skinning copper wire for 4-6 hours it didn't take much sharpening on a fine diamond stone to bring the edge back to razor sharp.
TH-cam has real made it so hard for all of the gun channel's to have a platform for there videos ...... thanks for the knife reviews I have am about to order one that when I figure out which one I want thanks Xring you have truly be so honest and real channel without no doubt...... you just gotta get rick and you to have a knife throw nat some targets think that would be awesome to see ....
@@XRING the longer the video is means you are taking real pride in what you are reviewing ..... I do thank you for every detail video you post in your channel always enjoy what you and rick does
These were Mechanix with Kevlar liners. I actually tested the liners and I was able to be cut through as well. They were genuine Kevlar but those were NOT made by Mechanix
I used to have an SOG Trident. One of the worst knives I ever owned. The issue I had was that the knife was too easy to open, had it open in my pocket once and stabbed my knuckles. Stopped carrying it immediately.
All of those tests mean less to me than the fact you carried one for NINETEEN years with ZERO issues. Man i hope microtech pays you for this bc this video is very convincing ! Love it
Thanks Matt. Make that 20years now! 🤣. The guys at MT tell me it’s time to retire it since the blade has been sharpened so much. ....Nah, still works like the day I got it. Thanks for watching.
X-RING definitely convinced me to buy one, but I’ll probably go Manual, plain edge, drop point. Just my style, still will be the same greatness as yours. Will add it in the rotation with my sebenza and umnumzaan
I like Microtech, the make some awsome stuff. And the Socom looks like a nice knife and I was considering getting one but its performance wasn't too impressive. I've seen Cold Steel Recon 1's take just as much abuse. Thanks for the honest video
I love microtech but the CS Recon 1 is as tough as nails and probably stronger than the Socom Elite. I have the recon in black and od green both tanto and the black has been abused and still fictions like new love microtech though just the cost
Speaking of Microtech, when the hell are bladehq, gpknives etc. going to have some of these in stock? Remember like 10 years ago when you could buy any Microtech, Chris reeve, strider, almost all models in stock, those were the golden days.
Not trying to put the knife down by any means they make a great knife but my kershaws put up up with the same abuse. I even went and did the nail test with it and everything and it came out performing perfectly without even cleaning or blowing any debri away. Matter of fact I dropped it when climbing into the bulldozer d9 cat. And one of my employees found it and gave it to me lol he said it was ran into the ground with dozer track marks around it 🤣. It doesn't have a glass breaker but I really don't care either way kershaw has been an amazing knife for me and now that I'm finally getting into otf knives I hope what your tests show about microtech stands True like my kershaw does cause I ordered one and i hope it's the beginning of a great relationship haha :) I do like their warranty by the sounds of it.
I bought 3 Microtech’s in 2 weeks because of these test videos. An Ultratech and 2 Socom Elites.
Microtech definitely chose the right guy to represent the brand.
Awesome! Thank you for the compliment and thanks for watching’
I have an ultratech in elmax I love it my best OTF I own cause of the price always wanted the elite so it hurts to see one being destroyed instead of given to me or at least trading it to me 😢.
Either he’s the right guy to rep the brand or you’re a sucker. I heard there’s one born every minute!!
Tips still on them?
@@experienceprecision5406 My Microtech OTF's yes -- my Socom's No. But I do tend to beat up the Socom Elite's more than my OTF's. Great knives I still use them almost daily.
I had always thought of Microtech as another hyped up overpriced brand. Recently I saw a turquoise + stonewashed partially serrated Socom Elite Auto in a store near me and the color immediately caught my eye.
As soon as I held it and felt the quality, the strength of the spring and the sharpness of the blade, I was sold.
That knife has not left my side since and it never will.
Truly an incredible knife.
The SOCOM didn't break during the prying test, it simply adapted to the task at hand. See how much better it worked after? :)
This guy does more harm to the company than benefit. Lol and to think they actually sponsor him. I wanted to get an Ultratech until I saw his tests and saw how unreliable the things really are. Benchmade for me 👍🏻
gangsta19x You’ve gotta realize these are EXTREME torture tests. I guarantee you same results if you watch the same with Benchmade. Both are great brands and make quality knives. As owner of both Microtech and Benchmade I respect both and the quality of both are more than superb.
@@HeyGeesh I have both microtech and benchmade knives also. Actually around 20 benchmade knives and about 5 microtech knives. I promise you both are excellent knife companies but I also promise you that a benchmade will break before a microtech if you are comparing apples to apples. Trust me.
gangsta19x you’ll regret that decision
gangsta19x the test he made for the microtech ultra tech is what made me buy one it didn’t even fail on any of the test how is it not reliable?
I never understood why people are against serrated edges, either. I own a couple fully serrated knives & some partially serrated ones, & I absolutely love them. If you touch up the serrations occasionally, even with hard use they'll last a lifetime.
After owning about 15 Microtechs, I just ordered my first non-OTF MT about 30 mins ago: a Socom Elite manual tanto combo edge. I'm incredibly excited to test it out. I use my knives mostly for EDC tasks, but it's great to know that I can do much more with it should I choose to. 😃
Probably because they're harder to sharpen than plain edges.
My first Microtech was a manual Socom close to 20 years ago. Ended up selling it. Recently picked up a Socom elite auto. Such a great design and not suprising that it has endured 25 years.
I stopped buying liner locks because I've had them fail when using them hard. That socom really impressed me!
You can see the liner lock on it is pretty thick and beefy.
@@knifetoucher yeah, this knife liner lock is almost a framelock. They basically release the new one a sub-frame lock.
Liner locks aren't meant for "hard use"
One of the best purchases I've ever made was a Microtech! And because of this video, I'm planning on buying another one!!
Good test, thank you. I’ve changed my EDC blade, get-home pack blade, and bug-out pack blade to Microtech knives = basically because of these Microtech torture tests. Keep it up!
Thanks Kelly and thanks for watching. You will be happy with them for sure.
Thank you Kelly
As painful as that is to watch I'm so glad you're doing this. I've been wanting a micro tech for a while but couldn't bring myself to spend the extra money. But I will be now. So thank you for torturing these. Very good and fair testing. Good stuff as always my friend
Thanks Steel Punisher. I am definitely having fun with the series. Guess I will have to do the Combat Troodon next!
Love the video! I just bought a service knife (UMS fully serrated Ultratech) from Microtech and am super excited to receive it for duty action! Your videos just reinforce my decision to purchase one. The problem is, now I want a SOCOM 😩. Keep up the great work buddy!
Thanks Big Sampson and thanks for watching the channel! 👍🏼
*_Revisit this with the Auto version!_*
"These are not made for prying"....proceed to split a treated 2x4 in half via *prying*.....love it!🤣 These reviews/tests are some of the best!
Thanks Lynn! I appreciate you watching and commenting.
Awesome torture testing. The rope test was the bomb. Some folk's still think serrated blades are bad but in reality they are bad ass.
Just bought a socom elite serrated drop point. $286 out the door. Fantastic knife. Ive spent 2x that in the past 10 years on junk $20-60 knives that break easily .
I like this honest and fair testing of the knives, with no bullshit added to cover up flaws!
I got one after I saw you carried for 19 years.
Awesome Highway 9! How are you liking it so far?
Supper strong, keeps a great edge. Carry most days
I got one as well right after these videos! I had issues with emersons I bought and for $200 plus for a knife I dont want issues out the box. Also liner locks have me the same issue but when I saw they put a insert into the lock I knew they are way ahead of everyone else and his tests and his knife carried for 19 years made me invest in a knife that is super quality and tough and has serrations lol. He is right about the serrations they work amazing for rope cutting or tough materials and is a more utilitarian blade in my opinion. Great video and company will be purchasing more in future.
Watching your vids never gets old! I’m late to the game but I’ll catch up!
the SOG in the wire test has a rougher edge, acting like serrations . both good knives. but I'd take the Microtech all day. I just bought a Troodon, mostly inspired by these torture tests. Great work !! please keep em coming :)
I absolutely luv my Microtech Knivesl. :-) Peace, Stiletto :-)
Still here watching this video over and over again. Great video. My socom elites are the sharpest knives out of the box I've ever bought. And I have lots of high end knives that are much more expensive. But my tanto socom elite is just lethal. That's my daily carry for everything. And hopefully I never have to use my knife for self defense but if I ever have to my tanto socom is a knife I know I can depend my life on. And like I said I wouldn't want to be on the other side of that lethal tanto.
A friend of mine but one of these on the internet and the guys holding it for me till next week almost backed out of it but when I seen this video that's what made me decide that I'm going to buy it. Nice review I'm glad to be getting the manual instead of the auto!
Great Test Thanks Ray. I am a big fan of serrated edge also
My pleasure live for wild.
I keep telling people that when the SHTF you will appreciate those serrations. Your test proves the point! Young guys seem to uniformly hate it though.
Outstanding You are exactly right you get what you pay for, most of the time. Fantastic knife for sure. Thank you. Sincerely you're friend from MO RICK. God bless you and you're family and God bless America and the Republic
Wow Ray, great video. You done made me order one...Marfione Custom SOCOM Elite Warcom Two-Tone Stonewash Finish Anodized Alloy With Stingray Skin Inlay Satin Hardware & Blue Titanium Thumb flipper accent. This will be my show off knife 😉 Once my dealer gets regular production ones in stock, I’ll be grabbing one of those to use as a beater 👍
Good test. Love my MT’s. Thanks for sharing your videos
I ended up watching a video of you abusing a so I’m alpha mini and I was impressed but now after watching this I know for what my next folder is going to be
Bro you have beat the PI$$ out of these Microtech blades...thanks, now I want an OTF....Damn You!!!!
Jeffrey Miller. I bought my Ultratech T/E about 4-5 days ago! Ya cannot go wrong!
Lol I done the same after watching his videos and now I got 4 otf and don’t use them at all lol I will say this I got 2 clones from dhgate and they are really impressive and I do use them, and yes the clones will fail if to much oil in the tracks but hey for 30 buck idc beats paying 350+
Thank you for doing tests I could never do. Thumbs up to you Sir!
Nice test! That’s one damned tough knife. ⚔️😎👍
Thanks MCJ and thanks for watching.
How does the locking mechanism in the auto version compare to this liner lock in terms of strength? Trying to decide between the two
The auto is one of the strongest mechanisms there is. Definitely stronger than the liner lock in my opinion. 👍🏼
*looks hard use test*
"now I think it's tough enough for me to carry"
*proceeds to only use it to cut boxes and wipes down the blade after every use*
^A majority of the people watching this, including me haha
Lol I do the same thing with my ultra tech
Hahaha that’s how i baby all my microtechs, i have 4 ultratechs a combat troodon a utx 85 a LUDT and a tacP
If had to have only one folder, that would be it.
Love these knife reviews.
Robert M I absolutely agree with that statement Robert! Thanks for watching.
DAmn it's hard to choose! Socom Elite, Recon 1, or ZT 0562CF ?
Great unbiased review!
He has so much faith in the liner lock that he didn't even throw on the safety glasses. 😳
Got my auto a few days ago and i think it's my fav Microtech (i own a Ultratech and a Troodon). I'll definetly use it as an outdoor survival knife while I'll keep my OTF's for urban self defense. By the way...when i first opened it and saw the weight on the blade against the light weight of the body I instantly thought it can be used as a throwing knife! Awesome video! Thanks!
My pleasure Adrian and thanks for watching. I would never recommend throwing any Microtech but at least you know it can be done. Kind of what these tests are all about. Thanks for watching.
@Andrew thanks for sharing your opinion. I agree that not all OTF's can be reliable in a life or death situation but Microtechs are a class of their own. The Cold Steel knives you probably reffer to are OFS's and I understand how those can have a better lock than an OTF . Never the less, I think a Microtech OTF can do the job just fine in a self defense situation . It can penetrate clothing or flesh withouth compromising the lock. On the other hand, OTS's knives can be both self defense or hard use survival tools but it is easier to carry a good quality OTF for self defense in an urban eviroment and keep my SOCOM ELITE for the woods where it can perform it's best!
@@adrianpascaliu436 salutări 🍺
@@semperparatus5942 salut!
@@adrianpascaliu436 US or RO?
Great testing. Great knife. Thanks dude.
My pleasure Vincent.
No knife tip would survive that, the plus to this knife is ceramic bearings they won’t brake.
RLH 42ndAMD the ceramic bearings will however corrode and are not self-cleaning like Teflon washers do. That’s why if you are going to be in to dirty environment that can gunk up your knife for an extended amount of time such as a military deployment you should opt for Teflon washers as they will self-clean all you need to do is submerge the knife in fresh water and open/close the blade a few times and you are good to go.
With ceramics u’d need to open the knife up and give it a throughout cleaning or else the balls will get pitted over time creating a very grainy action, not smooth at all and left long enough you won’t be able to open the knife after it gets bad enough inside.
I own a MT socom elite myself and do think it’s a great knife and have been carrying it daily for the past year at work, but just something I thought of sharing because it’s better to be aware of it than running in to the problem when your in a place you can’t really fix it up in.
Rick Hinderer XM 18 spanto tip would easily survive this test if I had to guess!
I mean..I have a cold steel recon 1 Tanto and this is pretty much regular use lol...I was surprised the microtech tip broke. Regardless, still one of my grail knives.
“Do you really want to hurt me? Do you really want to make me cry?” This song played in my head the entire time he molested yes sir “molested!” That SOCOM in that 2x4..Jesus sir...I’m married with three kids and an avid knife enthusiast...it would take me months to save up for that knife. I’m not saying don’t use it but is that really necessary? Functionality is key I agree but I’m not going to take a lambo off roading to prove the obvious! Hardest thumbs up I’ve ever given.
ig- Evaid Id reply but I’m to busy with my finger down my throat. Ok microteka good deed doer...the comment was not meant to be rhetorical...it “WAS” funny until you came along and stated the obvious! But actually I do have a question just for u that would warrant actual clarification..”Do you take your cape off or leave it on when you rescue kittens out of trees?”. Jesus. Your reply to me was like someone explaining how to breath.
Would of been nice to test it side by side with the #coldsteel recon 1 tanto
You know CS hand down will out do that very ckool knife even though it's a tough steel and handle material.
power play 4 real i have cold steel knives and benchmade and pohlforce and extreme ratio so its not that i dont have expensive knives is just that cold steel is really amazing knives toughest on the market not wven mentioning the price
@R.J. Lewis It's depend of the construction and handle material too...
Many lock backs on cheap knives are crap due to this and tolerances.
Dang you and your videos, making me buy more Microtechs! 😁
Glad you're doing manuals as well. Love me a nice hard use manual knife.
I weep every time I watch one of these.
Just picked up the socom serrated auto! Od green very nice!
I have had my Microtech nife for seventeen years and its still going strong its my every day carry and my only nife I own.
I just ordered a blue tanto auto version. This video made me feel like it was a good choice
I think you chose wisely! Thanks for watching.
That was impressive, and definitely a torture test. I also like to have a partial serration on my work knives, cut lots of different materials in my job. I can't believe how deep you were prying with that Microtech and it didn't break in two. Luckily I have a mini-prybar I keep with my tools for just that reason. Also, the Air Force buys all my tools and I don't like wasting taxpayer money if I don't have to. The actual pocket knife they give us is a joke, just a 2" Gerber plain edge. Have a great weekend brother!
fumasterchu12 Thanks fumasterchu12! Also, don’t forget to send me your address to my x-ring email.
@@XRING Sure thing brother, thanks!
@@XRING I don't seem to have it, send me an email and I'll add you to mine. fumasterchu@live.com
amen to the serrated edge russell wong
It's a knife that should last a lifetime for the average person.
Solid review.
Best to ya',,,,!!
Awesome video buddy. I also own a automatic Socome Elite tactical and love it so much that I just keep it in my cabinet because its so nice.
Dang....that was an awesome video. Clinched the deal for me...just got a Microtech SOCOM Elite Auto...tanto blade all black.
A $300 knife is sharper and better quality than an $80 one?! Get out! Mind = blown
Honestly you convinced me to go ahead and buy my first socom elite i got a manual with apocalyptic and partial serrated🇺🇲🦅
I have two ultratex and a socom elite they are all outstanding knives. top quality. Thanks for the great video
I'd say prying with a Socom is....pointless 😏. I'll be here every Friday folks 🍻
I'd like to add one of my favorite cliches or my favorite addage, "you get what you pay for, you don't get what you don't pay for". I can't be the first one to have said that but I stand by it.
I just picked up my first microtech troodon the other day and love it. Looking to buy one of these next for a work knife.
You will be happy with that as a work knife for sure .
Great test and great insight! I just subscribed. M390 is a bit brittle, but it can still take a beating and sharpen up nicely. Maybe Microtech can make their next Socom run in K390, which has better edge stability and strength. That would be a perfect Socom in my books.
Love these torture tests. Microtech has been my go to knife purchase for a few years now. They just keep going and going, you threw that thing like a shuriken, but why’d you kill the tree man... lol. Subscribed and keep them tests coming...Appreciate you!!!
Is this the variant from the milgov program they have?
Great video and channel. I'm curious, what is the actual brand and model of the Kevlar lined glove? I could use some.
nearlyagoodlaugh Thank you for watching and commenting. I actually went to a wood working shop and bought them. They are cut proof level 5 liners but they are NOT stab proof. I merely wear them inside of a set of Mechanics gloves so I don’t accidentally take a trip to the hospital 😄. They were only about 12.00 but the do not have a brand name or manufacturers tag. I already threw the box away.
Ah that makes sense, I thought the outer gloves looked like Mechanix impact resistant gloves. I think I've seen the same kind of cut resistant ones then. Might try the same thing, using them as a liner. Thanks for the quick answer.
nearlyagoodlaugh anytime!
Very nice quality knife and you are right about the steels as so many blade steel snobs out there....I am still trying to warm up to a tanto style blade but Microtech's is very subtle on the tanto style....Nice job with the testing using your serrated edged blade....Good stuff....
Thanks Scott. I really like the looks of the Tanto’s but I don’t really prefer them over a drop point. Lots of times I have to do a rolling cut and the drop point seems to work best for that.
Videos like these I guarantee Microtech watches and make adaptations for.
Great video and great knife. Thanks.
Leonid Brevdo Thanks Leonid.
Buy once, cry once. Pay for American quality and warranty.
Or do like me and buy 20, cry plenty.
🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🦅
I already have Amphibian and Gen 3 Combat Troodon. Socom Elite Auto will definitely be my next purchase.
Really an excellent torture test for a great knife! I love Micros even if I carry them basically for self defense purposes only, since I'm not allowed to carry firearms where I live, unfortunately!
I’m sorry that you can’t carry a gun but I’m glad you do have the option of something other than your bare hands.
If, you can't carry guns where you live. Most likely you can't carry an AUTOMATIC Mircoteah. I would check your County laws.
Why did you compare it to a SOG? Why not something higher end?
Imagine it against a cold steel knife lol. Kind of surprised that the SOG cant cut paper.... It has been a while since I've even bought a folder that couldn't cut paper and maybe it just needed to be angled slightly different due to a different grind? Heck regardless some of my sharpest knives out of the box were under 50 bucks. Its just higher end knives tend to be more consistently sharp though they most definitely have their flaws as well.
My BM 746 didn't come crazy sharp and didn't really have the right cutting edge angle for its style. and one of my Microtechs have an uneven grind and while its sharp its no sharper than most 30-100 dollar knives I buy. That being said its no huge deal and ill just work it out whenever I sharpen it I just have no idea if the guy that sharpened it in the factory needs glasses or something. Its a dagger and one side is fairly good id consider it acceptable though not perfect. But the other side is a good bit worse especially when you compare it to the side that's not too bad.
We are a little nauseated from the torture but subscribed anyway 😅
Wow, that serrated edge cut the rope much better. I’m generally a plain edge guy and would love to see the plain edge knife sharpened on a coarse stone in the 100-250 grit range and then repeat this test. A plain edge finished on a coarse stone will have some microserrations that help it grab into and cut tough materials like the rope in this video. If a coarse-ground plain edge were put up against his partially serrated edge, it would be interesting to see what happens. If the partially serrated edge still won, I might have to try one of those out! Might actually change my mind on the serrated versus plain edge thing!
Love my Socom Elite Tanto ! Neat review ! ❤ 22:45
Great video! Thanks! What steel is on the knife?
No problem. Most Socom Elites made today will have CTS 204P however, you might see M390 , Elmax or even XHP on them.
@@XRING OK. Microtech Socom Elite Manual which steel test? Very interesting.
tot_samyy______ The knife that was used for this review had 204P blade steel
@@XRING Need to buy))) They can disassemble the tank!))) Thank you!
One other difference is the new socoms are on bearing systems rather than straight on the aluminum surface. The old system was probably better for the hard use because you didn't risk the bearings denting the scales or even the tang and they were more dirt resistant.
The bearing dent issue is also next to irrelevant unless you're trying to pry open a door or something.
I'm pretty sure there are steel rings in the scales that the bearings ride on. I know in the Socom Delta there was.
@@oXObsidianXo That's right, the elite has a steel backing plate on the scale, then a track on the tang. Steel plate is easier to replace but denting the tang is a bad one.
Hello X! I followed your review with a lot of Interest. Almost cried when the tip broke down, and was soo impressed at the end with the quality it this knife. Since I came late to the party and was aware of this model practically when the only one left I could find was one with an Elmax blade (would have liked one with M390 or 204P), I started to search the net for more info about Elmax steel, but almost every article is theoretical considering composition percentages and stuff like that. So I would like the opinion of real users of Microtech Elmax such as you, given all the Microtechs you have tested and used hard. Some people even say that Elmax is even slightly tougher than M390, other say they are very similar. So, I would greatly appreciate your opinion. Thank you very much! I’m a follower now 👍🏼
My experience with SOG over 25 years of use hasn't been that good. I surprised the hing didn't break, as the plastic flexes and I'be been able to defeat the lock with just hand pressure on the Aegis, Trident and few others. They have a big name, but their folders with plastic molded handles are accidents waiting to happen. Yes, I know, not really a fair test against the Socom. You really torture tested these two. I have great confidence in the Microtech as a result. Too bad that tip went. Probably good in the the company can analyze the issue, either in heat treating or possible impurities in the steel. Not like that's a frail tip design, either. Thanks again!
kubey makes great liner lock knives and they have a perfect detent
I think it might just be liner locks in general. My ZT 0456 liner lock fails with a moderate smack of the spine.
Have you ever sent in a Microtech knife in for repairs or resharpen ? If so ... how long did it take to get your knife back ? Thanks
Hey Tony, I think it takes about 3 weeks.
I got mine back 3 weeks to the day. They will send you a UPS notification once they ship. Great customer service. You can call them and they answer. Very friendly and helpful. Great knives and even better people!
scottyboylucky7 Thank you! They have gotten a lot better than in the years past.
You’re really selling me on getting a microtech
Recon 1 tanto, will destroy these knives all day, and keep its tip. That said I do think the socom manual is awesome and probably the best thumbstud on a knife
I was on the fence about buying one of these. But after watching your video I am going to commit My only question is should I get the tanto or drop point? After seeing the how the Tantos tip stood up? Would the drop point fair any better??
Hey Melendez, I personally prefer the drop point. It it much easier to roll cut things and easier to sharpen. The tanto might have a slightly stronger tip but I would still choose the drop point.
Microtech makes really good knives, no doubt. I had a SOG lock give way on me back in the day, down in Puerto Rico during that fun winter training we used to go down there and do. I was cutting open a coconut and the lock gave - pretty bad cut, as you can imagine. For the money - don't buy a SOG - in my experience...
That's why I buy coldsteel I had a liner lock fail twice on me 2 different knife brands on Kershaw an a sog I only carry tri-add now or button lock because benchmade are overpriced micro tech seem nice but I've never paid more then $150 for a cutting tool over 200 is just insane but I like this guys tests
Awesome video!!
What is the steel on your 19 year old EDC? 154CM or ? I doubt it is a super steel.
111111111Tiger It is 154-CM.
Would love to see you put your hands on some newer automotive glass it’s real durable stuff my boss recently tried to break his side truck window with a hammer and it took a lot of whacks would be good to see the tungsten glass breaker perform on that
Watch MT Making an Ultratech episode 3 or 4 and watch Jason break some car windows.
I have only had my Socom Elite for 2 weeks and have not used it for anything yet that could harm it. The detent allows the blade to swing out if the knife is shaken hard in a similar way that your test knife did. While I do not think it will hurt anything, I am wondering if this is normal for the detent of a Socom Elite.
My SOCOM Elite Auto hasn't left my pocket since I got it about 3 weeks ago, and it I think it's here to stay.
Just finished installing an air handler with it and after cutting fiberglass duct board, insulation, rubber gasket material, and skinning copper wire for 4-6 hours
it didn't take much sharpening on a fine diamond stone to bring the edge back to razor sharp.
TH-cam has real made it so hard for all of the gun channel's to have a platform for there videos ...... thanks for the knife reviews I have am about to order one that when I figure out which one I want thanks Xring you have truly be so honest and real channel without no doubt...... you just gotta get rick and you to have a knife throw nat some targets think that would be awesome to see ....
T B Thanks TB! I know this was a long video. I do throw it some towards the end.
@@XRING the longer the video is means you are taking real pride in what you are reviewing ..... I do thank you for every detail video you post in your channel always enjoy what you and rick does
what are those gloves you wore for this video? Thanks for the video, and thanks in advance for any replies!
These were Mechanix with Kevlar liners. I actually tested the liners and I was able to be cut through as well. They were genuine Kevlar but those were NOT made by Mechanix
I used to have an SOG Trident. One of the worst knives I ever owned. The issue I had was that the knife was too easy to open, had it open in my pocket once and stabbed my knuckles. Stopped carrying it immediately.
Thanks for the comment Kyle. Have a great week.
All of those tests mean less to me than the fact you carried one for NINETEEN years with ZERO issues. Man i hope microtech pays you for this bc this video is very convincing ! Love it
Thanks Matt. Make that 20years now! 🤣. The guys at MT tell me it’s time to retire it since the blade has been sharpened so much. ....Nah, still works like the day I got it. Thanks for watching.
X-RING definitely convinced me to buy one, but I’ll probably go Manual, plain edge, drop point. Just my style, still will be the same greatness as yours. Will add it in the rotation with my sebenza and umnumzaan
@@mattg6834 your rotation?! Just curious, do you cut anything with them or wear them like a piece of jewelry?
I like Microtech, the make some awsome stuff. And the Socom looks like a nice knife and I was considering getting one but its performance wasn't too impressive. I've seen Cold Steel Recon 1's take just as much abuse. Thanks for the honest video
My pleasure Skyfall 007!
I love microtech but the CS Recon 1 is as tough as nails and probably stronger than the Socom Elite. I have the recon in black and od green both tanto and the black has been abused and still fictions like new love microtech though just the cost
Called out Benchmade on the Sly!! Your the man 😂
Speaking of Microtech, when the hell are bladehq, gpknives etc. going to have some of these in stock? Remember like 10 years ago when you could buy any Microtech, Chris reeve, strider, almost all models in stock, those were the golden days.
Not trying to put the knife down by any means they make a great knife but my kershaws put up up with the same abuse. I even went and did the nail test with it and everything and it came out performing perfectly without even cleaning or blowing any debri away. Matter of fact I dropped it when climbing into the bulldozer d9 cat. And one of my employees found it and gave it to me lol he said it was ran into the ground with dozer track marks around it 🤣. It doesn't have a glass breaker but I really don't care either way kershaw has been an amazing knife for me and now that I'm finally getting into otf knives I hope what your tests show about microtech stands True like my kershaw does cause I ordered one and i hope it's the beginning of a great relationship haha :) I do like their warranty by the sounds of it.
I am so torn between the LUDT and this Socom Elite. I can guarantee one thing, this old Leatherneck will be carrying one of them.
Undecided still… Microtech Socom Elite or Benchmade Adamas? I kinda like the Axis lock better. Thoughts?
Wish they could be be purchased somewhere!
Great review. To bad you don’t get to keep it at the end. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks Joaquin. It’s ok, I have a decent collection.
What blade steel is your 20 yr old microtech?
154-CM
@@XRING thanks. I was just curious as to what the latest and greatest was then as opposed to now. Great videos by the way. You sold me on microtech.
tip down only?