I don't know what's worse. Stupid law forbidding to carry auto knifes or the fact that the country where you live in Gerber 06 Auto is not available officially. Some people buy 06s abroad and then sell them but I don't like to buy knifes second hand.
One of the things that I have noticed in the automatic and assisted opening knives that come from China, is that you can make the lock a little tighter by trying to open the blade while it's locked. I guess it causes enough friction to hold the button in place better.
Thats Rancid in the background off their newest album. Verdict: You do good work. I carry the military version, USMC and all. It does good work. Heavy, but insanely rugged.
@NSNorfolk I agree - they are on the slow side, but they are very reliable, strong, and I'm a fan of the plunger style lock (as opposed to a liner lock system, which I've always hated. Liners wear out very quickly).
I have been carrying the civilian 06 auto for a little under 3 years now, I couldn't imagine not having it in my pocket everyday. Now with that being said the only issue I have had is the safety/lock mechanism has become incredibly loose as if it may fall of at any point. Not an issue to me since I don't use it and have never had it open while in my pocket. I have read forums where several people say they just take their safety off. It is expensive and rather heavy for an EDC blade but like I said I couldn't imagine not having it by my side everyday. I got extremely lucky and got mine at an ARMY surplus store NIB for $80, I consider myself extremely lucky. If your on the fence on buying one don't be, it is a hard use knife and you will notice within 6 months tops why its worth the extra cash. Side not: I had it professionally sharpened after two years of hard use and the guy asked me if I recently had it sharpened, it was the same stock edge out of the box after two years of hard use.
@usermalfuntions That is a tough call. They both have the same action and lock. I'd take the FAST simply because it is a bit larger. I have some great very small knives (Spydero Lava, for example) - but I'm not much on the 3" blade medium sized knives. Between those two, I'd go for the FAST.
The 06 Assisted is 1/3 the cost of the 06 automatic I own both and can say I enjoy either one but but the American Made Auto is One of the Best Knives anyone can Carry.
@Jimmy46E Thanks Jimmy! And, I agree with you re: the ruggedness. I'm no longer working in law enforcement and am now out of the military - even so, this is a great utility knife and I use mine often for this, that and the other.
Gerber 06 is my duty blade. I like it but its a little slow to open. Trade off, the blade is incredibly strong! One year, we got drop points, 2 years later, it was the Tanto. Bother are the American version.
I understand that their are similarities between the 2 knives. However, gerber isn't stopping production on the 06 auto(as it is one of their best sellers). The 06 fast is worth the $50 you pay for it. The 06 auto(though more expensive) is also worth every penny.
@alaskakitae I haven't used any other autos aside from the Gerber 06. The civilian model, which I have since sold, is just less beefy all around. Thinner pivots, thinner construction, sloppy switches, etc. The 06 is the way to go, without question.
Pull the spring out of one of your 06s and you can just flip it open when you press the button. I pulled my springs for shipping back from Afghanistan. Makes it legal to use whats familiar...put them back in when you redeploy. I got my second one from a Hadji shop at Alamo for $20.
besides the fact that the FAST is made in china, would it still be recommendable if i were to use it on a daily basis? and also i've watched other reviews and they were talking about before you open the knife that it has flaws and it has been known to be flimsy in the beginning until you get its tightened and fixed
I'm not knowledgeable enough about steels to have an informed opinion, but will say that I have several knives w/ 440 steel and they hold up just fine. S30V is a much higher regarded steel type, though (which is what the USA version has)
@penguinparker7 I agree with some of your argument, although a "switchblade" versus an "auto assist" with one being legal and the other not is a ridiculous distinction. Its an absurdity in the law that defies logic.
You must live in IL. Lol. How did you get the military version ? I'd give anything to purchase one ... Straight up. Plz let me know pal ! Thanks for the video !
@zacthebold I'm sure that it isn't the "norm," but some smaller departments in rural areas only have a small handful of LEOs in the community (or even the entire county). Years back (locally) there was a jail break - dispatch called (via cell phone) all off duty and reserve LEOs to assist in the search. In a handful of minutes there were a dozen armed off duty cops crawling all over the surrounding blocks and found the inmate hiding under a parked vehicle. Anecdotal story, but an example.
I got the chines one and had it for 2 years and have had no problem with it at all i cut box's nylon rope and other things with it and am happy that i bot it but that's your opinion ok i see Nothing wrong with Knife.
All in All. If you are in the military or L.E. and your life could depend on it, get the AUTO. IF not, get the FAST, They are still pretty stout and will also run you into less legal trouble should you get caught with one. Also, I remember doing some research on the FAST and I don't think it was 440, I believe it was either 7Cr or 8cr13mov on the blade steel, unless they have changed it again.
I had to google it cause I forgot the day I bought it... It's 7cr17moV. I'm not up on blade steels so idk how good or bad it is but from my experience I'd say it's weak. At least in the serrations. An industrial zip tie killed some teeth on mine. Seems pretty easy to sharpen so maybe it's just a softer steel but yea. There's some anecdotal evidence that was never requested
I had to get the Chinese one...mines a lot smoother than the one your showing and a better lock...although this video is 10yrs old they may have made it better. I want the American one but it’s bs I can’t get one 😭
@zacthebold Yes, they are "special" when they are off duty. I don't know what your experience in or with law enforcement consists of, but given the frequency that off duty cops are called on to assist on duty officers or are found in positions requiring action despite being off duty, I see nothing wrong with some statutory exceptions in favor of these individuals. And, with you on switchblades, not on auto firearms...
@hanzybear The FAST is an OK knife. There are many that I would carry instead, though. Spyderco comes to mind. And, even Cold Steel. The USA version is head and shoulders a better knife.
all you have to do is tweak it a little and its great, the Chinese version is just as good to me don't get me wrong i love american made, but i give credit where credit is due i also have the Dmf manual and its made in china ,its built like a tank .
Yeah, I'm not looking for anything too special, but I don't want to buy a knife that I'm going to have to resharpen every time I use it. I REALLY like the feel of the knife, though. and it just looks fucking badass, hahah. But anyway, thanks for the great review/comparison :)
i like the design of the FAST but its a major let down...i wish they atleast used AUS8 blade steel and i wish it opened faster...overall I dont think its worth the cash, i will go with the SOG Trident.
@czarjam Technically when you do that it's a gravity knife, in other words, still a switchblade. They just need to get rid Of the stupid law in general, it's outdated
don't know about buying a knife over the counter ,I only buy directly from the source. I.e Gerber ,Benchmade ,ZT etc.. the auto is an issue knife. the Walmart knife is not!
It is really hard to compare these for several reasons. Civilians in most stats will face legal trouble if you carry the autos. You also have to look at the money you are paying for each knife comparing to what you get. Like Dice said, The 06 FAST is legal just about anywhere I agree with Dice that the "American" versions are going to be made better, but people also must remember the price you are paying for it. If you where paying same price for the FAST and the AUTO, I would be concerned.
Many of you are asking why military personal,cops,firemen etc... Get to handle auto blades and guns and civilians don't. Well for one thing law enforcement do things that require having these tools civilians dont. A good example is in the middle east if a soldier has just a single fire gun how will he/she even stand a chance against AK-47s. Civilians aren't usually up to automatic assault rifles so they don't need automatics. Also if you want an automatic blade just get assisted opening there j
Thanks for this video about the different versions of this knife. This Marine had His stolen about 5 years ago and haven't been able to find this knife anywhere, was told that it was nolonger made? Mine had a Marine Corps logo on it, and your video mentions that the Army was also issued this knife, I thought only Marines were issued this knife? Can I still get My hands on a Original Marine Corps version of this knife New? Do they still make Them? Or do I have to hunt around for new or used versions, people maybe that bought some before they were canceled? Want one bad! Miss the one I lost! And may GOD punish the S.O.B. who stole it! It,the knife that is, didn't live or die a good life or death after it left Me. Probably a dope trade,Sad!
I live in Moscow Russia. I cant buy New original (AFO) model gerber auto 06 in Russia, can i am buy this new model in your state. Help me please. Sorry for my English))))))
I've had mine for over 6 years and I'm just now finding out it's China made. WTF? No wonder the serration looks like crap and the blade works itself loose. Other than that though, it has been a pretty decent/durable knife.
@dicemansr77 In Texas you may drive with a loaded rifle next to you and a loaded pistol under seat but you can not have an auto knife....just ridiculous. A buddy of mine brought an issued one back home and it is the only auto i have ever liked, but i keep passing them up when they come around...someday I’ll budge, but I just cant get past Striders right now.
Switch blade laws are stupid. I can open "any" knife much faster than a switch blade, as I love putting my friends through the test and watch them fail every time. As for whether it should be carried by military or cops it really does not matter as both can equally break the law easily as any criminal. So I really do not see the benefit since criminals do not obey any law to start with lol! And besides, bad guys usually rely on illegal handguns or shall I say "Remote control" switchblades which are better and easier to obtain than switchblades anyway.
Great comparison review. Subscribed. Cheers from Texas!
I don't know what's worse. Stupid law forbidding to carry auto knifes or the fact that the country where you live in Gerber 06 Auto is not available officially. Some people buy 06s abroad and then sell them but I don't like to buy knifes second hand.
One of the things that I have noticed in the automatic and assisted opening knives that come from China, is that you can make the lock a little tighter by trying to open the blade while it's locked. I guess it causes enough friction to hold the button in place better.
Just picked up an Auto today. Love it. My FAST will be retired now
Thats Rancid in the background off their newest album. Verdict: You do good work. I carry the military version, USMC and all. It does good work. Heavy, but insanely rugged.
@NSNorfolk
I agree - they are on the slow side, but they are very reliable, strong, and I'm a fan of the plunger style lock (as opposed to a liner lock system, which I've always hated. Liners wear out very quickly).
I have been carrying the civilian 06 auto for a little under 3 years now, I couldn't imagine not having it in my pocket everyday. Now with that being said the only issue I have had is the safety/lock mechanism has become incredibly loose as if it may fall of at any point. Not an issue to me since I don't use it and have never had it open while in my pocket. I have read forums where several people say they just take their safety off. It is expensive and rather heavy for an EDC blade but like I said I couldn't imagine not having it by my side everyday. I got extremely lucky and got mine at an ARMY surplus store NIB for $80, I consider myself extremely lucky. If your on the fence on buying one don't be, it is a hard use knife and you will notice within 6 months tops why its worth the extra cash. Side not: I had it professionally sharpened after two years of hard use and the guy asked me if I recently had it sharpened, it was the same stock edge out of the box after two years of hard use.
Can you post a video about reassembling the American military version?
Good observation - I hadn't noticed it. The USA models seem to be a 1/2 height flat grind, and the Chinese is hollow ground.
@usermalfuntions That is a tough call. They both have the same action and lock. I'd take the FAST simply because it is a bit larger. I have some great very small knives (Spydero Lava, for example) - but I'm not much on the 3" blade medium sized knives. Between those two, I'd go for the FAST.
switchblades were just legalized in texas for carry, it goes into effect on sept 1st!
@GreenMeanie2007
So do I. Switchblade laws are archaic. I have "regular" folding knives which I can deploy every bit as quickly - if no quicker.
The 06 Assisted is 1/3 the cost of the 06 automatic I own both and can say I enjoy either one but but the American Made Auto is One of the Best Knives anyone can Carry.
@Jimmy46E Thanks Jimmy! And, I agree with you re: the ruggedness. I'm no longer working in law enforcement and am now out of the military - even so, this is a great utility knife and I use mine often for this, that and the other.
Gerber 06 is my duty blade. I like it but its a little slow to open. Trade off, the blade is incredibly strong! One year, we got drop points, 2 years later, it was the Tanto. Bother are the American version.
Agreed. Considering getting some of those screws and upgrading my FAST to a better quality knife
I understand that their are similarities between the 2 knives. However, gerber isn't stopping production on the 06 auto(as it is one of their best sellers). The 06 fast is worth the $50 you pay for it. The 06 auto(though more expensive) is also worth every penny.
do they make a plain edge version of any of these? I just don't ever need them.
@alaskakitae
I haven't used any other autos aside from the Gerber 06. The civilian model, which I have since sold, is just less beefy all around. Thinner pivots, thinner construction, sloppy switches, etc. The 06 is the way to go, without question.
Does the military auto come in just tanto and the civi only in drop point?
Pull the spring out of one of your 06s and you can just flip it open when you press the button.
I pulled my springs for shipping back from Afghanistan. Makes it legal to use whats familiar...put them back in when you redeploy. I got my second one from a Hadji shop at Alamo for $20.
So where is the best place to get the american version of this knife. I think academy only offers the FAST version.
When did you get the cheaper one i have the same and i love it but all springs where out
besides the fact that the FAST is made in china, would it still be recommendable if i were to use it on a daily basis?
and also i've watched other reviews and they were talking about before you open the knife that it has flaws and it has been known to be flimsy in the beginning until you get its tightened and fixed
So what states allow the switchblade type like this?
I cant seem to find the Auto versions of the knife, any other suggestions for another auto or assisted opening tac knife?
is the FAST version bigger because in the video i does look slightly bigger
Weird, my 06 fast Springs out after the blade is moved 10 degrees
That's just my opinion Guy's please don't take any disrespect i am just happy that i have got it for when i need it.
Are you positive that the Flat black, handle is for Military Issue use only? and if so how did you get one?
The middle knive does it have g10 handles ?
Have you used the Gerber DMF? Found one for about $174, money well spent.
Have you compared them to the USA version?
I'm not knowledgeable enough about steels to have an informed opinion, but will say that I have several knives w/ 440 steel and they hold up just fine. S30V is a much higher regarded steel type, though (which is what the USA version has)
ive had the chinese version for somewhere around 3 years and its well broken in but there is a little side to side bladeplay.
Great knife for the price.......but....for not wanting to complain, you sure are doing a lot of it!
What model is the flat black gerber 06 ?
@imachku Its more substantial - a bit thicker - but overall length is the same.
does gerber make a Drop Point FAST version
where did u get yours? Gerber and ebay wont sell auto
@penguinparker7 I agree with some of your argument, although a "switchblade" versus an "auto assist" with one being legal and the other not is a ridiculous distinction. Its an absurdity in the law that defies logic.
where can i get the military version?
are these legal in north carolina
You must live in IL. Lol. How did you get the military version ? I'd give anything to purchase one ... Straight up. Plz let me know pal ! Thanks for the video !
what state do you live in?
@zacthebold I'm sure that it isn't the "norm," but some smaller departments in rural areas only have a small handful of LEOs in the community (or even the entire county). Years back (locally) there was a jail break - dispatch called (via cell phone) all off duty and reserve LEOs to assist in the search. In a handful of minutes there were a dozen armed off duty cops crawling all over the surrounding blocks and found the inmate hiding under a parked vehicle. Anecdotal story, but an example.
Absolutely. I love those guys!
How do I get a civilian auto? They ask for credentials when I try
@zacthebold Also, I am opposed to any restriction on switchblade knives - public servants or not - same as you.
Great revew thanks
@TheUprisingNinja
As I understand it, Autos are legal in AZ.
so these are legal in arizona????
wish i knew somewhere that would ship the auto one to me.
I got the chines one and had it for 2 years and have had no problem with it at all i cut box's nylon rope and other things with it and am happy that i bot it but that's your opinion ok i see Nothing wrong with Knife.
All in All.
If you are in the military or L.E. and your life could depend on it, get the AUTO.
IF not, get the FAST, They are still pretty stout and will also run you into less legal trouble should you get caught with one.
Also, I remember doing some research on the FAST and I don't think it was 440, I believe it was either 7Cr or 8cr13mov on the blade steel, unless they have changed it again.
I had to google it cause I forgot the day I bought it... It's 7cr17moV. I'm not up on blade steels so idk how good or bad it is but from my experience I'd say it's weak. At least in the serrations. An industrial zip tie killed some teeth on mine. Seems pretty easy to sharpen so maybe it's just a softer steel but yea. There's some anecdotal evidence that was never requested
Military version was also gloss or anodized for the later 2012+ years
Thanks!
I had to get the Chinese one...mines a lot smoother than the one your showing and a better lock...although this video is 10yrs old they may have made it better. I want the American one but it’s bs I can’t get one 😭
thats the new rancid album in the background eh?
i have the civilian one and its amazing!
Just ordered a 06 tanto from gerber(thank you id) is that rancid im the back lol
@mrlaserguy2 Not that I'm aware of, although I wish they did.
@zacthebold Yes, they are "special" when they are off duty. I don't know what your experience in or with law enforcement consists of, but given the frequency that off duty cops are called on to assist on duty officers or are found in positions requiring action despite being off duty, I see nothing wrong with some statutory exceptions in favor of these individuals. And, with you on switchblades, not on auto firearms...
@dicemansr77 thanks for the comment and I defiantly see you point of view.
I have that assisted knife and I was made in USA its locking mechanism is not like that it's pretty firm.
@hanzybear The FAST is an OK knife. There are many that I would carry instead, though. Spyderco comes to mind. And, even Cold Steel. The USA version is head and shoulders a better knife.
@dicemansr77 You make some solid points. I guess there is no "perfect" tool, yes? It is one STRONG blade!
all you have to do is tweak it a little and its great, the Chinese version is just as good to me don't get me wrong i love american made, but i give credit where credit is due i also have the Dmf manual and its made in china ,its built like a tank .
Agreed - the Auto is a much higher quality knife than the FAST.
Hey brother. Would you sell the tanto auto ??? You got a eBay account ??
Yeah, I'm not looking for anything too special, but I don't want to buy a knife that I'm going to have to resharpen every time I use it. I REALLY like the feel of the knife, though. and it just looks fucking badass, hahah. But anyway, thanks for the great review/comparison :)
Do a Wikipedia search "switchblades" and scroll down to the US Laws section. They have the specifics for each state listed.
i like the design of the FAST but its a major let down...i wish they atleast used AUS8 blade steel and i wish it opened faster...overall I dont think its worth the cash, i will go with the SOG Trident.
@dicemansr77
Thanks Diceman!
Ha I can carry my 06 auto tanto in Texas! It's 100% legal now
@AnthonHarvey18 I got one of mine on eBay, the other from a website called allsparetools. They're tough to find.
@czarjam Technically when you do that it's a gravity knife, in other words, still a switchblade. They just need to get rid Of the stupid law in general, it's outdated
don't know about buying a knife over the counter ,I only buy directly from the source. I.e Gerber ,Benchmade ,ZT etc.. the auto is an issue knife. the Walmart knife is not!
It is really hard to compare these for several reasons. Civilians in most stats will face legal trouble if you carry the autos. You also have to look at the money you are paying for each knife comparing to what you get. Like Dice said, The 06 FAST is legal just about anywhere
I agree with Dice that the "American" versions are going to be made better, but people also must remember the price you are paying for it. If you where paying same price for the FAST and the AUTO, I would be concerned.
Many of you are asking why military personal,cops,firemen etc... Get to handle auto blades and guns and civilians don't. Well for one thing law enforcement do things that require having these tools civilians dont. A good example is in the middle east if a soldier has just a single fire gun how will he/she even stand a chance against AK-47s. Civilians aren't usually up to automatic assault rifles so they don't need automatics. Also if you want an automatic blade just get assisted opening there j
I hear those chinese made blades are made with garbage steel. Is this true?
@JPCinDrock Thats about how we are here in Montana as well. Its illogical.
Yes, I was "complaining."
Thanks for this video about the different versions of this knife. This Marine had His stolen about 5 years ago and haven't been able to find this knife anywhere, was told that it was nolonger made? Mine had a Marine Corps logo on it, and your video mentions that the Army was also issued this knife, I thought only Marines were issued this knife? Can I still get My hands on a Original Marine Corps version of this knife New? Do they still make Them? Or do I have to hunt around for new or used versions, people maybe that bought some before they were canceled? Want one bad! Miss the one I lost! And may GOD punish the S.O.B. who stole it! It,the knife that is, didn't live or die a good life or death after it left Me. Probably a dope trade,Sad!
Good vid !!!
I live in Moscow Russia. I cant buy New original (AFO) model gerber auto 06 in Russia, can i am buy this new model in your state. Help me please. Sorry for my English))))))
@PsychoReptar Never took mine apart...
@Bless1995
That kind of defeats the object...
I've had mine for over 6 years and I'm just now finding out it's China made. WTF? No wonder the serration looks like crap and the blade works itself loose. Other than that though, it has been a pretty decent/durable knife.
@dicemansr77 In Texas you may drive with a loaded rifle next to you and a loaded pistol under seat but you can not have an auto knife....just ridiculous. A buddy of mine brought an issued one back home and it is the only auto i have ever liked, but i keep passing them up when they come around...someday I’ll budge, but I just cant get past Striders right now.
Switch blade laws are stupid. I can open "any" knife much faster than a switch blade, as I love putting my friends through the test and watch them fail every time. As for whether it should be carried by military or cops it really does not matter as both can equally break the law easily as any criminal. So I really do not see the benefit since criminals do not obey any law to start with lol! And besides, bad guys usually rely on illegal handguns or shall I say "Remote control" switchblades which are better and easier to obtain than switchblades anyway.
whatever i carry mine every day
its an 06 F.A.S.T tanto and its the u.s model, because i bought it for 30 bucks (minus tax)
so, yes you fucking can.
it's not Powder Coated, it's Teflon Coated...
;)
I guess I need to "get with the times." I'll start calling perfect strangers "jerks" if that is the new thing.
Nice review. Next time use a freakin tripod. That camera movement was too much.
If you think that your local knife laws are bad, check out English knife laws.
@MarkTyler84 Shady seller, the best I can figure.
i can get one at walmart for 30 bucks and its the u.s model.
@AnthonHarvey18 Great Video btw