My Amazon page! The gear I use here on the channel! - www.amazon.com/shop/metalcomplex Thanks so much for watching! You can support my channel on Patreon here - www.patreon.com/metalcomplex MC stickers! - www.redbubble.com/people/metal-complex/shop?asc=u
My grand fathers italian and when i told him you could buy stilettos online he was blown away next time i visited him he had a crap ton of frank b knives
Hey MC, just wanna say thank you for the authorized retailers tip in your recent videos for finding sprint runs, exclusives, etc. I just managed to grab a 15V Shaman from a local mom & pop shop and they’ve been selling out in seconds everywhere else. You the man.
I called my nearest microtech dealer looking for a MSI and the guy said he'd email me when he gets one in. I'm probably more likely to get one that way as opposed to the online drops that vanish in seconds.
@@Althoughpotato man I thought I replied to you days ago! Sorry about that. It’s the one that had the title something like “I have a secret and I’ll share it with you.” He basically said to go to the knife makers website and look at their list of authorized retailers. You’re more likely to find a smaller retailer that doesn’t get nearly as much traffic and give yourself a better chance of grabbing a drop before they sell out. Hope that helps!
You are so right. I bought my first one 35years ago and still they make the same crap. It is an atractive knife but would be so much better with good materials
Roma, Latama, I feel like I am singing the banana song. You called the Roma a Latama at the end of the video. Someone in Maniago maybe thinking of making you an offer you cant refuse, you don't own a horse do you! Any who, I think the AGA Campolin Zero should have got some honorable mention here, I know its not a swing guard but it does have all the classic lines, great fit and finish, Austrian N690 Stainless, I like them I own six of them. Thanks for all the info and I am right there with you on the modernization of the classics.
Preach! Preach! I've loved the older style stilettos ever since I was a teenager and the swing guard is my favorite variant, and I've wanted someone to modernize the classic swing guard for years. Now I know you don't have a platform were you can speak it into existence but I do hope someone listens
I have to agree, as much as I love the original design, it's been a while since they were given some love by a manufacturer. Even if it's just an upgrade of build quality, hardware and steel, while keeping the fundamental design and handle materials the exact same.
I agree 100% we need a modern swinguard. There's no reason it can't retain a retro style and aesthetic, but ditch the peened pin and rivet traditional construction and get some modern cnc design, good steels, etc. AKC (with their Xtreme series) and AGA Campolin have already been doing this to great success with other classic styles. Check out the AKC Xtreme Ace and Shadow for two great modern takes on the classic Italian stiletto design. Or check out AGA Campolin's Zero for even nicer modern take on the classic Italian. These knives keep the look and feel of the retro models; the vestigial S-guard, the bayonet or full-flat-ground spearpoint blades, that classic stiletto handle and either button, bolster, or lever lock -- but in modern high end materials with great fit and finish, cnc machining, and decent blade steels like D2, M390, etc. I own all the models referenced above and I wholeheartedly recommend them as modern versions of classic switchblades; and I often keep them in my EDC/defensive tactical knife rotation. Unfortunately no company I know of makes a modern swinguard, or at least not a decent one, and it's a shame. They're such a cool looking switchblade variant and would seriously benefit from all the modern advances in construction methods and materials. I mean AKC makes some great stuff, but their "Roma" swinguard was a serious letdown to me. Campolin's version is far, far better as this video shows. Let's be honest: when it comes to traditional Italian automatics, AGA Campolin, Latama and the Beltrames blow every other production brand out of the water, AKC included. That said, AKC's Xtreme (eg; modern) series gives Campolin, and even Microtech, a serious run for quality at better prices; for example the Xtreme Shadow is basically par with the Campolin Zero in quality and has better steel (D2). If only the Shadow had a pocket clip I'd even call it superior. So yeah, we really need someone to make a decent modern swinguard. And this ended way longer than I intended...
The AGA is beautiful and traditional. Can't beat abalone for color. The other AKC is an updated tactical Italian/Chinese quality gadget knife. Hopefully it will draw buyers into the world of higher quality Italian switchblades.
😄 "higher quality Italian switchblades" 😄 I got AKC Swinguard, and A.G.A Campolin Maltese. AKC has no blade play, and locks semi-solidly. A.G.A Campolin has bladeplay, and UNLOCKS if I press the blade with my thumb, 🤣 Switchblade quality is laughable, they are ONLY no-use decorational pieces.
@@jounikorhoneni collect italian and buy swinger clones to carry. Wont cry about breaking a 40 buck AKC swinger clone. And that latama looks like a china clone all the china clones have a tiny leaf spring. Got my son one buts its called the russian mafia knife. And it looks a hell of a lot nicer than that one he says is 140. Sht 140 you can find a buck 110 auto if you look hard enough.
I do agree that these do need updating and when that happens I feel the demand for these styles of knives will definitely go up dramatically . In today’s eyes those are gift shop comb knives and using premium materials with an updated style would definitely bring them back into the mainstream. Way to take a subject that most of us probably haven’t thought about and making us think “yeah I’d buy that!”
I agree 100% we need a modern swinguard. There's no reason it can't retain a retro style and aesthetic, but ditch the peened pin and rivet traditional construction and get some modern cnc design, good steels, etc. AKC (with their Xtreme series) and AGA Campolin have already been doing this to great success with other classic styles. Check out the AKC Xtreme Ace and Shadow for two great modern takes on the classic Italian stiletto design (and the Evo for a modern version of a classic '80s otf). Or check out AGA Campolin's Zero and Zero+ for _even nicer_ modern take on the classic Italian stiletto. These knives keep the look and feel of the retro stuff, the vestigial S-guard, the bayonet or full-flat-ground spearpoint blades, that classic stiletto handle and either button, bolster, or lever lock -- but in modern high end materials with great fit and finish, cnc machining, and decent blade steels like D2, M390, etc. I own all the models referenced above and I wholeheartedly recommend them as modern versions of classic switchblades; and I often keep them in my EDC/defensive tactical knife rotation. Unfortunately no company I know of makes a modern swinguard, or at least not a decent one, and it's a shame. They're such a cool looking switchblade variant and would seriously benefit from all the modern advances in construction methods and materials. I mean AKC makes some great stuff, but their "Roma" swinguard was a serious letdown to me; even this semi-modern version with G10 (it's still traditional hand fitting and pinned construction though, so having the G10 makes little sense). Campolin's version is far, far better. *Let's be honest: when it comes to traditional Italian automatics, AGA Campolin, Latama and the Beltrames blow every other production brand out of the water. AKC included.* That said, AKC's Xtreme series gives Campolin, and even some Microtechs, a serious run for quality at better prices; for example the Xtreme Shadow is basically par with the Campolin Zero in quality and has better steel (D2). If only had a pocket clip I'd even call it superior. So yeah, we really need someone to make a decent _modern_ swinguard. And this ended way longer than I intended...
Man I hope your voice was loud enough for someone to get this going Metal!!! I love swing guards and have a few , and you're right on the money when it comes with the fit and finish of these things, it's kind of known to expect that , but why should we. I hope somebody can make a modern swing guard, that be awesome!!!!
I'm about to do an update video on this, but AGA is far from a beautiful build quality. I got 3 different ones from 3knives and the best one of the bunch has a blade that's not in-line with the spine, a loose bolster pin, and a safety that stopped working just from sliding it back and forth a few times, no abuse.
A modern take is on the roadmap for the new Latama x Victoriam joint venture, but it's still mostly brainstorm/data gathering phase. More focused on the Sliding Scale Release platform we're doing with Prince Customs and Reese Weiland at the moment.
Great video and topic. I live in New Jersey and I really don't get the law's on switchblade knives in my state. I can collect them and keep them in my house/collection but I can't carry them or they'll literally give you a gun charge and I don't get it. Love this knife in the video I'm gonna search for one for my collection. I have rizzutos, rizzuto clones, Italian stilettos and a few otf's. I'm currently searching for some leverlettos and now I want the one you shared in this video. Great stuff and thank you for sharing it. Have a great day and thank you again.
I think I’ll have to get one of those AGA Campolins for my Dad. He got me into knives and switchblades from an early age but I don’t think he has a swing guard! (He sold knives along the way when he needed to) Last year I got him a lefthanded Protech and he really loved it since traditionally most autos are made right handed. Love the videos MC!
I have a couple of Chinese AKC stamped made in italy. One giveaway is the spring. Most Chinese copies have round springs as opposed to the flat italian springs. Also a close inspection of the logo shows differences when compared to the real thing.
Bought a swing guard years ago, came with so much blade play it was astounding, emailed AKC and they seemed almost pissed I bothered them, had to buy a replacement pivot barrel and Dremel the pin out, still garbage but at least I can tighten it until it won’t open correctly
That black swinger is on so many sites as the russian mafia. Its a china knife you can tell by that tiny leaf spring 140 is a crazy price on that knife. I got my son one for about 42 bucks shipped. Nice acrylic black cracked ice handle scales. Nice for 42 to 50 bucks. But 140 hell no.
Currently, the Pro Tech Don in both sizes are the closest you can get to a modern swing guard, but their guard is on the blade itself. Cool knife, though. Wish they were more available.
Shared a link to another TH-cam video. Looks like your AKC has a r in the circle under the A like a genuine AKC but the swing guard play and the lighter spring look like the clone in the vid. I Enjoy your channel!
I heard some ranting on about "modern traditional" knives. I don't remember exactly what it was they were spewing about, but that's not the point. "Modern traditional" is kind of a contradiction of terms.
I remember back in the early 80s a guy had a stag, carbon steel, Oldtimer looking switchblade. It was probably an expensive custom since our culture was lots of stolen high end stuff. Its probably in a wealthy man's collection
TMC makes a video about a knife I dont want. Brings out a Protect Godfather... I look up Protect Godfather. EVEN IN THE VIDEOS WHERE IM NOT INTERESTED! WHAT THE HELL MAN!
I just want a switchblade stiletto that is built well, and isnt an expensive pile of crap... Who knows? Maybe someday ill learn how to make one myself 😂
there is a custom microtech OTF that has the OTF equivalent of a swing guard but its a one of a kind and nobody else can have one, i think its called "The Masterpiece"
I picked up a large don auto for this reason, it has the classic look with modern build quality. It has a guard on it but it's just part of the blade, so you are right there is definitely a market for this.
@Metal Complex The SOG Quake with an assisted VG-10 blade had a swing guard and button lock, but it wasn't very attractive. Elite Tactical has two different swing guard models (Guardsman? I think) with D2 steel and axis locks., which are pretty interesting, but I think the guards were a little loose/shakey.
I wonder if stiletto knife sales have gone up since the success of The Last of Us. I've wanted one since I played the game years ago but never pulled the trigger. Maybe now is the time lol.
There was a Darrell Ralph modern swing guard, which was fired by both coil and leaf springs. It was the usual computer machined parts and screws construction. Had a rather sterile robotic look, like almost all such knives do. It appeared around 20 years ago, was around for a few years, then went away. Didn't seem to achieve any popularity. Perhaps the design wasn't taken seriously enough for people to pay the cost, which was several hundred. Folding guard knives have been around quite a long time, and generally the guard is never tightly fitted. Occasionally. 440C is actually a fairly good blade steel when it's heat treated correctly, though it seems lackluster in the era of super steels. Perhaps unjustly. The Italian manufacturers are using traditional construction, with stamped out parts and hand assembly and fitting. I suspect people are largely unwilling to pay the $250 to $350 for the type of Italian knives envisioned here or the $500 to $800 for a US made version for something that's generally considered a novelty item. Unfortunately. I would though. AGA Campolin has made completely modern switchblades based on the Mikov mechanism. I have a longer blade version of the Zero, and it's rock solid with a better grade steel. Perhaps they might fulfill our wishes someday...
I have a feeling WE would make some of the best looking modern stilettos because of their beautiful machining, materials, and colors. Although I can’t think off the top of my head if they’ve ever made an auto or not.
Hey MC, long time fan...the SOG Quake XL has the same principle, but uses the cross guard to launch the blade, keeping it as an assisted knife. Ever had one?
M.C I've been addicted to this style since I was a kid and you are correct the swing guards on all of them do suck but look so nice . I need a nice one and open to any suggestions ?
I sure agree with the primary thesis which you have offered. A truly modern swing guard would be cool! I'd sure like one. Amazed a number of times in this video where discussion about the "AKC" knife was offered. That is CLEARLY a Chinese low quality knife. You can pay $150 on blade HQ or you can get one for about $10 USD on wish, etc. SMH
Here's that term "modern" again. Modern is vague. Do we mean recent? I have a QSP Hedgehog that is recently made with recent materials, but it's an "old" pattern. It's a slipjoint with micarta and 14C28N. Is it a modern slipjoint, or a throwback. It's like the term "traditional" - it means different things to different people. People often say "modern" when they mean "tactical", or something else.
As a long time Rizzuto fan, I definitely agree someone needs to put out a quality swing guard with modern materials at a reasonable price point. Make it a button lock while you're at it too! I forgot to mention that there a few makers out there doing it, DKD for one, but not in the numbers or at a price tag for a large market...
To tell the truth I’ve always liked the idea of having one but they’re so flimsy I would never pull the trigger. I like this style over the Microtech styles.
The ZT 0223 is one of the best recent examples of an "updated classic" and I'm sure we both remember how excited the internet knife community was when that was announced. That couldnt have given the manufacturers who may have done exactly what you're wanting very much confidence to try something similar. Edit: It's obviously not apples to apples, but I wouldn't necessarily call it apples to oranges either.
If you like the classic Italian stiletto switchblade, I can recommend the AKC Xtreme Ace or Xtreme Shadow, which come in multiple steel types up to D2, and use button or bolster lock, respectively. Alternatively there's Campolin's Zero which is a leverlock version. I can wholeheartedly recommend any/all of them as solid takes on the classic Italian stiletto automatic, but upgraded with modern materials and design philosophy, cnc machining, etc.
@@metal_complex I agree, same can be said of D2, still one of my favorite all around knife steels. I find it holds a working edge for a good long time with minimal effort in resharpening it. Not that I don't appreciate steels like s35vn or 20cv. Like you, I collect Hinderers and the knives in m390 and 20cv have performed great, just a task to resharpen. My latest is the xm18 skinny slicer in Magnacut. On paper it's impressive, so far it seems legit, hasn't needed any touching up after two weeks of us
Yes!!! I have two old-style switchblades my father gave me that he got way back when he was in med school. They aren't swing guards, they are the even more classic, old-school style, where there are slight "guard" protrusions from the bolster. (think of the knife from "Twelve Angry Men", but with a straight blade) They're fun, and have good construction (compared to other switchblades, not compared to most modern knives). But, like MC, I would love to get modern, quality versions with good steel And, yeah, I prefer those classics to the slightly younger swing guards, but I'd get a swing guard, too, if they made a modern, quality one. Again: YES! I would love if some company were to make this. Especially if it were an actual Italian company, but I'll settle for wherever.
I just ordered that exact akc roma blade with the akc roma stamp off of bladehq. I have a few questions that would be nice for someone to please clear this up for me 1- is this made in italy or is it made in china? 2- if its a china blade, are there real akc romas? 3- was i scammed?
SOG has gotten very meh ever since they changed the "speciality knives" framed logo. Now it seems like they're more focused on gimmicky pizzazz than functionality. Like 20 years ago, the Arc-lock, Vision and the Pentagon models were the shit... now I won't give the new generations of those a second glance.
The powerlock multitool is the only sog product I'm loyal to. In the course of 20 years or so, even the quality of those has plummeted. No thread lock, no lock washers and the screws are finger-tightened by monkeys.
Never been a huge fan of the stilettos, mostly because they were just bad lol. Whoever makes a high quality one will hit big because all of us collectors/enthusiasts will buy it to essentially "check off a box" if that makes sense.
The cheap china clones are good when you can get it on wish for 30 to 40 bucks. Most AKC not bought directly from AKC is a china made clone you can tell by that tiny leaf spring. No way id pay 140 for the one. Get a frank b for that price and a smk italy even cheaper. I have a few AKC clones there not terrible till that crappy leaf spring breaks. They are ok to collect or light edc . hopefully the new china ones break and get rare like rizzos did. Then be a 200 dollar china knife in 15 years. Like bell nato military otfs and rizzos.
I like the style of the swing guard stilettos, but they all are made of cheap materials and fit and finish is not great. I'd definitely be interested in a quality built with great modern materials. So count me in, someone please built a quality stiletto.
My Amazon page! The gear I use here on the channel! - www.amazon.com/shop/metalcomplex
Thanks so much for watching! You can support my channel on Patreon here - www.patreon.com/metalcomplex
MC stickers! - www.redbubble.com/people/metal-complex/shop?asc=u
My grand fathers italian and when i told him you could buy stilettos online he was blown away next time i visited him he had a crap ton of frank b knives
Hey MC, just wanna say thank you for the authorized retailers tip in your recent videos for finding sprint runs, exclusives, etc. I just managed to grab a 15V Shaman from a local mom & pop shop and they’ve been selling out in seconds everywhere else. You the man.
I called my nearest microtech dealer looking for a MSI and the guy said he'd email me when he gets one in. I'm probably more likely to get one that way as opposed to the online drops that vanish in seconds.
What video did metal mention this ?? I gotta watch
@@Althoughpotato man I thought I replied to you days ago! Sorry about that. It’s the one that had the title something like “I have a secret and I’ll share it with you.” He basically said to go to the knife makers website and look at their list of authorized retailers. You’re more likely to find a smaller retailer that doesn’t get nearly as much traffic and give yourself a better chance of grabbing a drop before they sell out. Hope that helps!
@@AVA787 thank you !
I would love to see and purchase an updated version. You always have great content MC.
Rip wiffle bat man
You are so right. I bought my first one 35years ago and still they make the same crap. It is an atractive knife but would be so much better with good materials
Roma, Latama, I feel like I am singing the banana song. You called the Roma a Latama at the end of the video. Someone in Maniago maybe thinking of making you an offer you cant refuse, you don't own a horse do you! Any who, I think the AGA Campolin Zero should have got some honorable mention here, I know its not a swing guard but it does have all the classic lines, great fit and finish, Austrian N690 Stainless, I like them I own six of them. Thanks for all the info and I am right there with you on the modernization of the classics.
Preach! Preach! I've loved the older style stilettos ever since I was a teenager and the swing guard is my favorite variant, and I've wanted someone to modernize the classic swing guard for years. Now I know you don't have a platform were you can speak it into existence but I do hope someone listens
I have to agree, as much as I love the original design, it's been a while since they were given some love by a manufacturer. Even if it's just an upgrade of build quality, hardware and steel, while keeping the fundamental design and handle materials the exact same.
I agree 100% we need a modern swinguard. There's no reason it can't retain a retro style and aesthetic, but ditch the peened pin and rivet traditional construction and get some modern cnc design, good steels, etc. AKC (with their Xtreme series) and AGA Campolin have already been doing this to great success with other classic styles. Check out the AKC Xtreme Ace and Shadow for two great modern takes on the classic Italian stiletto design. Or check out AGA Campolin's Zero for even nicer modern take on the classic Italian. These knives keep the look and feel of the retro models; the vestigial S-guard, the bayonet or full-flat-ground spearpoint blades, that classic stiletto handle and either button, bolster, or lever lock -- but in modern high end materials with great fit and finish, cnc machining, and decent blade steels like D2, M390, etc. I own all the models referenced above and I wholeheartedly recommend them as modern versions of classic switchblades; and I often keep them in my EDC/defensive tactical knife rotation.
Unfortunately no company I know of makes a modern swinguard, or at least not a decent one, and it's a shame. They're such a cool looking switchblade variant and would seriously benefit from all the modern advances in construction methods and materials. I mean AKC makes some great stuff, but their "Roma" swinguard was a serious letdown to me. Campolin's version is far, far better as this video shows. Let's be honest: when it comes to traditional Italian automatics, AGA Campolin, Latama and the Beltrames blow every other production brand out of the water, AKC included. That said, AKC's Xtreme (eg; modern) series gives Campolin, and even Microtech, a serious run for quality at better prices; for example the Xtreme Shadow is basically par with the Campolin Zero in quality and has better steel (D2). If only the Shadow had a pocket clip I'd even call it superior.
So yeah, we really need someone to make a decent modern swinguard. And this ended way longer than I intended...
The AGA is beautiful and traditional. Can't beat abalone for color. The other AKC is an updated tactical Italian/Chinese quality gadget knife. Hopefully it will draw buyers into the world of higher quality Italian switchblades.
😄 "higher quality Italian switchblades" 😄 I got AKC Swinguard, and A.G.A Campolin Maltese. AKC has no blade play, and locks semi-solidly. A.G.A Campolin has bladeplay, and UNLOCKS if I press the blade with my thumb, 🤣 Switchblade quality is laughable, they are ONLY no-use decorational pieces.
@@jounikorhoneni collect italian and buy swinger clones to carry. Wont cry about breaking a 40 buck AKC swinger clone. And that latama looks like a china clone all the china clones have a tiny leaf spring. Got my son one buts its called the russian mafia knife. And it looks a hell of a lot nicer than that one he says is 140. Sht 140 you can find a buck 110 auto if you look hard enough.
I do agree that these do need updating and when that happens I feel the demand for these styles of knives will definitely go up dramatically . In today’s eyes those are gift shop comb knives and using premium materials with an updated style would definitely bring them back into the mainstream. Way to take a subject that most of us probably haven’t thought about and making us think “yeah I’d buy that!”
I agree 100% we need a modern swinguard. There's no reason it can't retain a retro style and aesthetic, but ditch the peened pin and rivet traditional construction and get some modern cnc design, good steels, etc. AKC (with their Xtreme series) and AGA Campolin have already been doing this to great success with other classic styles. Check out the AKC Xtreme Ace and Shadow for two great modern takes on the classic Italian stiletto design (and the Evo for a modern version of a classic '80s otf). Or check out AGA Campolin's Zero and Zero+ for _even nicer_ modern take on the classic Italian stiletto. These knives keep the look and feel of the retro stuff, the vestigial S-guard, the bayonet or full-flat-ground spearpoint blades, that classic stiletto handle and either button, bolster, or lever lock -- but in modern high end materials with great fit and finish, cnc machining, and decent blade steels like D2, M390, etc. I own all the models referenced above and I wholeheartedly recommend them as modern versions of classic switchblades; and I often keep them in my EDC/defensive tactical knife rotation.
Unfortunately no company I know of makes a modern swinguard, or at least not a decent one, and it's a shame. They're such a cool looking switchblade variant and would seriously benefit from all the modern advances in construction methods and materials. I mean AKC makes some great stuff, but their "Roma" swinguard was a serious letdown to me; even this semi-modern version with G10 (it's still traditional hand fitting and pinned construction though, so having the G10 makes little sense). Campolin's version is far, far better. *Let's be honest: when it comes to traditional Italian automatics, AGA Campolin, Latama and the Beltrames blow every other production brand out of the water. AKC included.* That said, AKC's Xtreme series gives Campolin, and even some Microtechs, a serious run for quality at better prices; for example the Xtreme Shadow is basically par with the Campolin Zero in quality and has better steel (D2). If only had a pocket clip I'd even call it superior.
So yeah, we really need someone to make a decent _modern_ swinguard. And this ended way longer than I intended...
Man I hope your voice was loud enough for someone to get this going Metal!!! I love swing guards and have a few , and you're right on the money when it comes with the fit and finish of these things, it's kind of known to expect that , but why should we. I hope somebody can make a modern swing guard, that be awesome!!!!
That would be super sick if protech made a cf/ti one. Or if Kershaw made a Launch version!
i mean protech has the gotfather and godson but those are more of like a total remake over a legacy version
Kershaw made a stilleto launch series knife
I'm about to do an update video on this, but AGA is far from a beautiful build quality. I got 3 different ones from 3knives and the best one of the bunch has a blade that's not in-line with the spine, a loose bolster pin, and a safety that stopped working just from sliding it back and forth a few times, no abuse.
A modern take is on the roadmap for the new Latama x Victoriam joint venture, but it's still mostly brainstorm/data gathering phase. More focused on the Sliding Scale Release platform we're doing with Prince Customs and Reese Weiland at the moment.
Great video and topic. I live in New Jersey and I really don't get the law's on switchblade knives in my state. I can collect them and keep them in my house/collection but I can't carry them or they'll literally give you a gun charge and I don't get it. Love this knife in the video I'm gonna search for one for my collection. I have rizzutos, rizzuto clones, Italian stilettos and a few otf's. I'm currently searching for some leverlettos and now I want the one you shared in this video. Great stuff and thank you for sharing it. Have a great day and thank you again.
I think I’ll have to get one of those AGA Campolins for my Dad. He got me into knives and switchblades from an early age but I don’t think he has a swing guard! (He sold knives along the way when he needed to) Last year I got him a lefthanded Protech and he really loved it since traditionally most autos are made right handed. Love the videos MC!
Just buy the Kershaw Launch. I can't rember the number, but it scratches the itch until someone makes something truly innovative.
I would absolutely love a good switchblade.
I want to see the Hawk's interpretation of a modern knife with a swing guard.
I have a couple of Chinese AKC stamped made in italy. One giveaway is the spring. Most Chinese copies have round springs as opposed to the flat italian springs. Also a close inspection of the logo shows differences when compared to the real thing.
It would be cool if, instead of the guard laying on the side of the knife, it could recess into the handle.
Kind of invisible until deployed.
2:00 swing guard? Damn it! I've been calling it crossguards.
Bought a swing guard years ago, came with so much blade play it was astounding, emailed AKC and they seemed almost pissed I bothered them, had to buy a replacement pivot barrel and Dremel the pin out, still garbage but at least I can tighten it until it won’t open correctly
I agree I would love to see a more updated version of the swing guard
That black swinger is on so many sites as the russian mafia. Its a china knife you can tell by that tiny leaf spring 140 is a crazy price on that knife. I got my son one for about 42 bucks shipped. Nice acrylic black cracked ice handle scales. Nice for 42 to 50 bucks. But 140 hell no.
Don't do wall hangers... like the smaller one but like you said I'd want better steal with maybe interchangeable scales
Yes, give us a MODERN high tech one! That would be super cool.
Currently, the Pro Tech Don in both sizes are the closest you can get to a modern swing guard, but their guard is on the blade itself. Cool knife, though. Wish they were more available.
I'm just getting into learning to hand-fit my own folding knives. If I get to making it work, I'll accept the challenge and get back to you lol.
This is an excellent video and I totally agree! Imagine a modern-day blade with a swing guard!
Does Burn knives count? They are custom and pricey but I bet Paul Panak would make whatever you want
A modern swivelguard would be so slick. With machined titanium yes please
Shared a link to another TH-cam video. Looks like your AKC has a r in the circle under the A like a genuine AKC but the swing guard play and the lighter spring look like the clone in the vid.
I Enjoy your channel!
Stilleto ❤ Had one of them in my child hood the kick back on the wrist
I heard some ranting on about "modern traditional" knives. I don't remember exactly what it was they were spewing about, but that's not the point. "Modern traditional" is kind of a contradiction of terms.
I generally agree. I think Case should do it. Imagine a swing guard with corn cob jigged bone scales. OH MY WORD! ;)
I remember back in the early 80s a guy had a stag, carbon steel, Oldtimer looking switchblade. It was probably an expensive custom since our culture was lots of stolen high end stuff. Its probably in a wealthy man's collection
I'm with you M.C. a new school swing-guard would be hella cool
You’re correct that these would sell. Lots of collectors are looking for something different.
TMC makes a video about a knife I dont want. Brings out a Protect Godfather... I look up Protect Godfather. EVEN IN THE VIDEOS WHERE IM NOT INTERESTED! WHAT THE HELL MAN!
I just want a switchblade stiletto that is built well, and isnt an expensive pile of crap... Who knows? Maybe someday ill learn how to make one myself 😂
there is a custom microtech OTF that has the OTF equivalent of a swing guard but its a one of a kind and nobody else can have one, i think its called "The Masterpiece"
I’d buy one of these with titanium and micarta for sure. Could even do one as a flipper for legal reasons
I love to see a review about AGA Campolin ZERO that will give a good knife with better steel on it!
Just imagine an integral MokuTi with Damacore blade. With a ZircuTi swivel guard. Oh my…
Hey MC. Hope you’re having a good Monday
Got one that says “AKC World” on the blade. Not sure it was made in Italy
According to other comments on other videos those are licensed copies made abroad
I picked up a large don auto for this reason, it has the classic look with modern build quality. It has a guard on it but it's just part of the blade, so you are right there is definitely a market for this.
@Metal Complex The SOG Quake with an assisted VG-10 blade had a swing guard and button lock, but it wasn't very attractive. Elite Tactical has two different swing guard models (Guardsman? I think) with D2 steel and axis locks., which are pretty interesting, but I think the guards were a little loose/shakey.
That Campolin is Beautiful. I love stiletto knives but am kind of salty that they're illegal here in the uk. Same with OTF and butterfly knives
I wonder if stiletto knife sales have gone up since the success of The Last of Us. I've wanted one since I played the game years ago but never pulled the trigger. Maybe now is the time lol.
There was a Darrell Ralph modern swing guard, which was fired by both coil and leaf springs. It was the usual computer machined parts and screws construction. Had a rather sterile robotic look, like almost all such knives do. It appeared around 20 years ago, was around for a few years, then went away. Didn't seem to achieve any popularity. Perhaps the design wasn't taken seriously enough for people to pay the cost, which was several hundred. Folding guard knives have been around quite a long time, and generally the guard is never tightly fitted. Occasionally. 440C is actually a fairly good blade steel when it's heat treated correctly, though it seems lackluster in the era of super steels. Perhaps unjustly. The Italian manufacturers are using traditional construction, with stamped out parts and hand assembly and fitting. I suspect people are largely unwilling to pay the $250 to $350 for the type of Italian knives envisioned here or the $500 to $800 for a US made version for something that's generally considered a novelty item. Unfortunately. I would though. AGA Campolin has made completely modern switchblades based on the Mikov mechanism. I have a longer blade version of the Zero, and it's rock solid with a better grade steel. Perhaps they might fulfill our wishes someday...
I have a feeling WE would make some of the best looking modern stilettos because of their beautiful machining, materials, and colors. Although I can’t think off the top of my head if they’ve ever made an auto or not.
they can't import autos into the US, so there's no reason to.
@@Algarvian2001 that’s unfortunate
Hey MC, long time fan...the SOG Quake XL has the same principle, but uses the cross guard to launch the blade, keeping it as an assisted knife. Ever had one?
M.C I've been addicted to this style since I was a kid and you are correct the swing guards on all of them do suck but look so nice . I need a nice one and open to any suggestions ?
I sure agree with the primary thesis which you have offered. A truly modern swing guard would be cool! I'd sure like one. Amazed a number of times in this video where discussion about the "AKC" knife was offered. That is CLEARLY a Chinese low quality knife. You can pay $150 on blade HQ or you can get one for about $10 USD on wish, etc. SMH
I agree, we really only NEED a mora. But c’mon y’all, we definitely WANT cool shit.
I have an old Kershaw by Kai rotary lock that I would love to see in a modern version.
Here's that term "modern" again. Modern is vague. Do we mean recent? I have a QSP Hedgehog that is recently made with recent materials, but it's an "old" pattern. It's a slipjoint with micarta and 14C28N. Is it a modern slipjoint, or a throwback. It's like the term "traditional" - it means different things to different people. People often say "modern" when they mean "tactical", or something else.
As a long time Rizzuto fan, I definitely agree someone needs to put out a quality swing guard with modern materials at a reasonable price point. Make it a button lock while you're at it too! I forgot to mention that there a few makers out there doing it, DKD for one, but not in the numbers or at a price tag for a large market...
Aren't DKD long since defunct?
Ow….. Arizona Custom Knives has one for $800
U should try the ganzo g707, amazing quality for its price, also in 440c but well its soo cheap idc. Lockup feels great, action is strong and solid
To tell the truth I’ve always liked the idea of having one but they’re so flimsy I would never pull the trigger. I like this style over the Microtech styles.
The ZT 0223 is one of the best recent examples of an "updated classic" and I'm sure we both remember how excited the internet knife community was when that was announced.
That couldnt have given the manufacturers who may have done exactly what you're wanting very much confidence to try something similar.
Edit: It's obviously not apples to apples, but I wouldn't necessarily call it apples to oranges either.
If you like the classic Italian stiletto switchblade, I can recommend the AKC Xtreme Ace or Xtreme Shadow, which come in multiple steel types up to D2, and use button or bolster lock, respectively. Alternatively there's Campolin's Zero which is a leverlock version. I can wholeheartedly recommend any/all of them as solid takes on the classic Italian stiletto automatic, but upgraded with modern materials and design philosophy, cnc machining, etc.
Dalton has/ had a large swinguard that was quality and fired like rocket! ❤
And ofcourse the one Burn knives makes❤
I'll take 440c over some of the so called super steels, it holds an edge well enough, easy to sharpen and doesn't chip all that readily
There are wayyy too many steels that outperform 440C. You dont even have to be in "super steel" territory. It's just extremely outdated
@@metal_complex I agree, same can be said of D2, still one of my favorite all around knife steels. I find it holds a working edge for a good long time with minimal effort in resharpening it. Not that I don't appreciate steels like s35vn or 20cv. Like you, I collect Hinderers and the knives in m390 and 20cv have performed great, just a task to resharpen. My latest is the xm18 skinny slicer in Magnacut. On paper it's impressive, so far it seems legit, hasn't needed any touching up after two weeks of us
Yes!!!
I have two old-style switchblades my father gave me that he got way back when he was in med school. They aren't swing guards, they are the even more classic, old-school style, where there are slight "guard" protrusions from the bolster. (think of the knife from "Twelve Angry Men", but with a straight blade) They're fun, and have good construction (compared to other switchblades, not compared to most modern knives). But, like MC, I would love to get modern, quality versions with good steel And, yeah, I prefer those classics to the slightly younger swing guards, but I'd get a swing guard, too, if they made a modern, quality one.
Again: YES! I would love if some company were to make this. Especially if it were an actual Italian company, but I'll settle for wherever.
Sog has done some modern swing guards but it's been a while lol
I agree and like the idea of a modernized stiletto.
Hey MC, what about the AGA Campolin Zero? It isn't a swing guard but it does have modern steel.
Might want to check out Burn Knives by Paul Panak.
Have you reviewed the boker folding smatchet?
I need a POCKET CLIP ON IT. and make the pocket clip pretty abalone inlay too..
Very well said! I agree with you 100%
😂the wiffle bat got me!
Just imagine if Gavin and Hawk made one. Or Reate.
IKR??
Reate might be tricky. Importing Switchblades into the US, or parts for, is actually stll illegal.
The rough ryder swish would be an awesome automatic knife
I just ordered that exact akc roma blade with the akc roma stamp off of bladehq. I have a few questions that would be nice for someone to please clear this up for me
1- is this made in italy or is it made in china?
2- if its a china blade, are there real akc romas?
3- was i scammed?
I'd take a Cold Steel Ti-Lite over this any time.
Then just do that
@@metal_complex Yeah I did, I just think it's build much better, and has much better steel.
I want a tanto/razel swinguard automatic with blackened blade preferably made by cold steel
I had the same scratches on my Frank B.
sog makes a swing guard. almost got it, then remembered i dont care for many sogs
SOG has gotten very meh ever since they changed the "speciality knives" framed logo. Now it seems like they're more focused on gimmicky pizzazz than functionality. Like 20 years ago, the Arc-lock, Vision and the Pentagon models were the shit... now I won't give the new generations of those a second glance.
The powerlock multitool is the only sog product I'm loyal to. In the course of 20 years or so, even the quality of those has plummeted. No thread lock, no lock washers and the screws are finger-tightened by monkeys.
Am I the only one with a distinct vision of a cheap plastic crimefighter who could afford better armor and costuming?
Never been a huge fan of the stilettos, mostly because they were just bad lol.
Whoever makes a high quality one will hit big because all of us collectors/enthusiasts will buy it to essentially "check off a box" if that makes sense.
The cheap china clones are good when you can get it on wish for 30 to 40 bucks. Most AKC not bought directly from AKC is a china made clone you can tell by that tiny leaf spring. No way id pay 140 for the one. Get a frank b for that price and a smk italy even cheaper. I have a few AKC clones there not terrible till that crappy leaf spring breaks. They are ok to collect or light edc . hopefully the new china ones break and get rare like rizzos did. Then be a 200 dollar china knife in 15 years. Like bell nato military otfs and rizzos.
the custom built stiletto market is completely unserviced and wide open for any makers out there capable of building quality picklocks.
We might as well just start wearing cod pieces then. What's next MC? Fancy little gloves?
I fully agree. I’m even considering building my own modern stiletto.
Old dchool was tacti-cool before tactical was a thing.
Ben Belkin to the rescue!
yeah the roma is the closest design I've seen to be a modern swing guard
But do we
Agreed
I like the style of the swing guard stilettos, but they all are made of cheap materials and fit and finish is not great. I'd definitely be interested in a quality built with great modern materials. So count me in, someone please built a quality stiletto.
I agree 110%
Take a look at a Russian automatic, they are great
Ziffius ships today. Way unnecessary overpriced chineese knife I can't wait to get
instead of crying about it why don't you make one
Case Cheetah
First
hihi