Microtech Knives: The Complete Guide (2025)
Published on Aug 8, 2023 • Last updated Feb 18, 2025
Introduction
Founded in 1994, Microtech Knives has earned a reputation for innovative, precise knife design. The brand is known for iconic out-the-front (OTF) automatics like the Ultratech and Combat Troodon. Microtech blends American craftsmanship, premium materials, and proven engineering. Whether you’re a collector, professional, or first-time buyer, this guide walks you through everything you need to know about Microtech – from history and manufacturing to popular models and warranty info.
The History of Microtech
Anthony (Tony) Marfione and his wife Susan founded Microtech in 1994 in Vero Beach, Florida. The first official products launched in 1995, and the brand quickly gained a loyal following.
After Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the company moved to Bradford, Pennsylvania, then later set up its current headquarters near Asheville, North Carolina, in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Today, Microtech manufactures every Microtech knife in the USA with careful attention to detail.
Why Microtech Knives Stand Out
Not every popular knife is truly great – but Microtech delivers on its reputation. The company is known for:
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Precision manufacturing with tight tolerances.
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Premium materials like Bohler M390 steel and exclusive M390MK.
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Rigorous quality control so only flawless knives reach customers.
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Innovative designs through collaborations with Bastinelli Creations, Borka Blades, and Rike Knife.
Enthusiasts and professionals trust Microtech. The brand even shows up in films like John Wick: Chapter 2, where models such as the UTX-70 and Cypher make an appearance.
Microtech Blade Steels
Microtech primarily uses Bohler M390 – a high-performance stainless steel with excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.
In addition, the company offers Bohler M390MK, an exclusive variation with slightly improved edge retention. You’ll find it on select Ram-Lok models like the MSI and Stitch Ram-Lok.
Blade HQ’s Steel Guide
Popular Microtech Knife Models
Microtech Ultratech Series
The Ultratech debuted in 1999 and remains Microtech’s most popular model. It’s an OTF automatic with a secure pocket clip, a hard-hitting double-action mechanism, and many handle and blade configurations.
Variants include:
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UTX-85 – 85% of the Ultratech’s size.
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UTX-70 – 70% of the Ultratech’s size.
Microtech Ultratech
Microtech UTX-85
Microtech UTX-70
Microtech Double-Action OTF Automatic Knives
Want to learn more about out the front knives? Have a look at our out the front buyers guide!
Microtech Glykon
The Glykon is a modern OTF with a titanium pocket clip, backstrap, and overlays. Its tri-sided X-Button thumb slide allows multiple opening and closing methods, which adds versatility and control.
Microtech Combat Troodon
The Combat Troodon scales up the Troodon platform with a nearly 4-inch blade and a powerful double-action mechanism. As a result, it stands out as one of the most imposing OTF knives on the market.
Microtech LUDT
The Large Underwater Demolition Team knife is a side-opening automatic originally designed for use underwater. Today, it serves as a popular everyday carry. In addition, Blade HQ exclusives like the Dessert Warrior LUDT add a fun twist.
Microtech Socom Series
The Socom Elite is a large folder available in both push-button automatic and manual thumb-stud versions. Collaborations with Rike Knife produced the Socom Bravo (a titanium and carbon fiber manual) and the Socom Alpha fixed blade.
Microtech Fixed Blades
While Microtech is best known for OTF automatics, the company has also produced some legendary fixed blades. Many are collaborations with top designers, and others are bold in-house creations that collectors chase. Highlights include:
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Arbiter – A full-tang tactical knife with a finger choil and a sharpened spine near the tip.
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Iconic – A karambit collaboration with Bastinelli Creations.
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SBD – A wide, double-edged dagger designed by Sebastijan Berenji (Borka Blades).
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Jagdkommando – A discontinued tri-dagger with a spiral design that has become a "grail knife" for collectors.
Some Microtech fixed blades, like the Jagdkommando, are no longer in production and are getting harder to find on the secondary market. Even so, current and discontinued models alike show the same overbuilt toughness and precision craftsmanship that define the brand.
What do you think is better- Fixed or Folding? Have a look at our opinion: Fixed Knives and Folding Knives
Microtech Ram-Lok Models
In 2023, Microtech introduced the Ram-Lok locking system, which functions like a crossbar lock. The Microtech MSI (Microtech Standard Issue) and Stitch Ram-Lok were the first to feature this system and exclusive M390MK steel.
Microtech Warranty
Because they stand by their products, Microtech offers a limited lifetime warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. Normal wear, misuse, or loss are not covered. However, the warranty ensures your knife performs as designed for its lifetime. You can find full details on Microtech’s website under the "Help" menu.
FAQs About Microtech Knives
Where are Microtech knives made?
All Microtech knives are manufactured in North Carolina, USA.
Are Microtech knives worth it?
Yes – Microtech is known for premium materials, precision engineering, and reliable performance.
What steel does Microtech use?
Primarily Bohler M390 and exclusive M390MK on select models.
What’s the best Microtech knife?
It depends on your needs. The Ultratech is a versatile all-arounder for those who want a reliable OTF automatic. The Combat Troodon suits users who prefer a larger, more imposing OTF. Comparatively, if you’d rather have a side-opening automatic, the LUDT delivers proven performance in a classic folder style. For manual folders, the Socom Elite Manual or MSI Ram-Lok give you Microtech precision without the automatic action.
Does Microtech offer a lifetime warranty?
Yes, for defects in materials and workmanship.
Conclusion
When you choose Microtech, you get more than a knife – you invest in precision engineering, modern design, and American craftsmanship. From OTF automatics to fixed blades and Ram-Lok folders, Microtech offers a knife for every purpose and style.
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