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Automatic Knives

Protech Runt J4 Review

by Grayson Parker 7 Comments

Last Updated: March 7, 2021
Over the last few years, pro-knife legislation in many states has contributed to a renewed interest in automatic knives. In part, these laws recognize the futility of banning automatic knives (also known as switchblades) when modern folders can be deployed just as quickly. The advent of the frame lock flipper begs the question: when manual knives can be reliably deployed at the same speed, but don’t require as many moving parts, is there still a justification for automatic knives? I argue that there is, but we’ll get to that later on.

Protech Runt J4
Buy the Protech Runt at BladeHQ

Although several states have passed laws which legalize carrying automatic knives, others have not. My home state of California still bans the carry (but not ownership) of switchblades. However, the California penal code does not define automatic knives with blades less than two inches as switchblades, which has created a market for tiny automatics.

Apart from smoke shop specials, few manufacturers cater to this niche market. Benchmade and Microtech each have an offering, but I wasn’t impressed by either during my (admittedly brief) handling period. While I can’t speak for everyone’s taste, I can say that I’m glad I chose the Protech Runt J4. Pro-Tech has a robust selection of CA-legal autos. They are based in California, after all. They also have earned a reputation online for quality manufacturing practices.

General Dimensions and Blade Details

The Protech Runt J4 has a 1.94 inch blade, a closed length of 3.33 inches, an overall length of 5.27 inches, weighs just 2.1 ounces, and is made in the USA. I chose the spear point blade, although there is the option of a tanto, if you’re so inclined.

On this model, Protech uses 154CM blade steel, which is fairly typical choice along the Pacific coast. I’ve heard that 154CM was originally developed for the aerospace industry, and if so, some of its popularity in California would be partially explained. If anyone has more information, please leave it in the comments. 154CM is an excellent working steel: passably tough, stainless, with good edge retention and easy sharpening. Some may criticize it for its edge retention when compared to the new generation of super steels, but it has held its own (both on this knife and others) in my experience.

Protech Runt J4 vs. Victorinox Alox Cadet

The blade is thinly ground, but the tip geometry is not as delicate as it appears. It is at least as tough as that of the Spyderco Dragonfly II. So long as you don’t drop it onto concrete, the blade should hold up fine. Between the thin stock and the high flat grind, the Runt is one of the best cutters I have owned. However the short blade makes certain tasks (among them slicing fruit – you only bite into an earwig in your apple once) slightly onerous, and some of the slicing potential is wasted on the short blade.

To date, rust has not been an issue, but others have had poor experiences with 154CM. The credit in this case should (in my opinion) go to the lustrous satin finish Protech put on the blade. Although the photographs don’t showcase it very well, this is one of the nicest finishes I’ve seen, and the satin finish on the main bevel is complemented by a high polish stonewash on the flats.

Handle, Ergonomics, and Carry

When this knife arrived, I assumed that the “fidget factor” of the knife would lie in deployment – that is, after all, the allure of an automatic knife. I was surprised to find that it was just as pleasant to the touch as my traditional knives. While it lacks the organic feel that micarta does, the aluminum (which has been hard anodized to the HAIII rating) is smooth and lustrous, akin to obsidian. The finish has held up well to riding next to a pen and a light, although it is fading at certain contact points. Rubbing against knurled titanium will have that effect, and I’m honestly surprised at how resilient the finish is. I’m certain that more of the coating will chip or wear away over time, but that isn’t the biggest concern for me. Much like the patina on a traditional knife or the fading on good jeans, this wear is a sign of use and adds a level of character that it would not have were it pristine.

Protech Runt J4 handle

In the hand, the knife is comfortable, but I would not suggest it for hard use, or cutting for long periods of time. While there is technically enough room on the handle for four fingers, this is meant to be a three finger knife. To Protech’s credit it is a well-executed grip, and despite the lack of jimping I’ve never worried about my fingers sliding onto the blade (or dropping it, for that matter). A lanyard hole would be a great addition and allow the knife to have a pseudo four finger grip. The edges have all been nicely chamfered, which gives the knife some of that “warm” feeling I often see attributed to custom knives, and is a contributing factor in stopping me from obsessively firing the Runt repeatedly as some do with flippers.

The one issue that I truly have with this knife is how it carries, and before you ask, it’s not because it is tip down only. Would I like to have the option? Yes, and I see no reason why Protech didn’t tap the other end of the handle to accommodate it. As I carry this knife next to a small flashlight, I don’t mind tip up, as it plays nicer with other stuff clipped to my pocket. I do not like the clip, however. The tension is unnecessarily stiff and the lip is too low to reasonably slide onto thicker cloth. And if you notice farther down, two of the clip screws (the ones on the outside were borrowed from another knife) needed to be replaced, as the originals stripped almost immediately.

Protech Runt J4 in Hand

Deployment and Lockup

Of course, the deployment is the main reason many folks consider an automatic knife. Whether they want to feel like Batman, need a knife that reliably deploys on command, or simply admire the mechanical ingenuity, let’s be honest: the thwack you get after pushing the button is addicting. The high polish on the button (which is both the deployment method and lock release) invites this sort of behavior, despite the nasty and/or frightened looks you may receive. After reading Anthony Sculimbrene’s review of the Protech Sprint (a newer, smaller model) wherein he noted that the small handle made it difficult to keep your grip on the knife when it deployed, I decided to go for the Runt instead, and I’m glad I did. The Runt fires louder and with more force than any automatic knife I’ve handled, which happens to be quite a few after a trip to a wonderfully seedy Las Vegas knife store. For some, this will be a real detriment. Not only does it draw attention to the knife, but you may lose your grip if you aren’t expecting it. After owning this knife for seven months or so, I’ve dropped it once for just that reason. In the Runt’s defense, I was absentmindedly firing it while doing some research, so that may be due to human error.

This was my first button lock, and I have no complaints. I can easily open and close the knife and the lock has zero blade play in any direction. Although there is no secondary lock or safety feature to prevent the knife from opening accidentally, I don’t think one is necessary here. Despite my initial concerns that the placement of the firing button/lock interface would lead to inadvertently releasing the lock (see the earlier grip shot), it was never an issue in realistic use. The plunger is deep enough that barring truly extraordinary circumstances, your index finger won’t come close to compromising the lock. The Runt has never fired in the pocket, and I was not able to induce the knife to open in such conditions.

I did have to apply Loctite to the pivot screw on mine, but when I did, I realized the screw was as thick as those on some of the “hard use” knives I’ve handled. Some folks might balk at the relatively complex internals of a button lock, but as the guys at the Knife Thursday podcast went over, having a lot of parts isn’t necessarily a bad thing. For example, on a framelock (or God help you, an integral) if the lock is somehow compromised and needs to be replaced, then the entire lock side of the knife needs to be replaced as well. On a button lock or an axis lock, parts will fail, but typically can be fixed without too much hassle, as the offending component is just one part of the mechanism.

Protech Runt J4 Pocket Clip

Protech Runt J4 Review – Final Thoughts

Ultimately, if you are legally able to carry an automatic knife and are interested in doing so, I would recommend you first look at Protech. If my experience with the Runt and the hype on internet forums is representative of their capabilities, you won’t be disappointed. It’s not just good in the niche role of California legal automatics, it’s a great knife for everyday carry. This knife is impeccably finished, significantly nicer than its competition, and costs far less to boot. Keep in mind, the Runt is not without its problems. It can be a pain to carry it using the pocket clip. The deployment can require some getting used to, and its less people friendly than its size would indicate. However, if you’re looking for a classy knife that is equally at home on the job site and in a suit, this is an option worth exploring.

Protech Runt J4 on BladeHQ
Protech Runt – From $105.00
From: BladeHQ

I recommend purchasing the Protech Runt at BladeHQ or possibly Amazon (as available). Thanks for reading.

Filed Under: Assisted and Automatic Knives, Automatic Knives, EDC Knives, Made in the USA, Protech Knives Tagged With: 154cm, aluminum, drop point, Made in the USA

Famars Lama Prima Edizione Review

by Dan Jackson 6 Comments

A relative newcomer to the cutlery scene, Famars is a company best known for crafting extremely high end shotguns. In fact, they happen to be the largest high end shotgun manufacturer in the world. Headquartered in Gardone, Italy, Famars has been creating functional works of art for over 50 years now, and build guns that seamlessly fuse innovative technology with old-world craftsmanship. So needless to say when I learned that this ultra high end firearms company was building knives, it got my attention. The Famars Lama Prima Edizione is their first foray into the world of luxury knives, and it is a real privilege to take a closer look at this very unique knife.

Described as the world’s first pinless dual-action automatic knife, the Lama is anything but typical; so in some ways this will depart from my typical knife review. After all, these knives are designed to compliment shotguns that can sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars. But while Famars’ products are the epitome of a luxury good, often featuring precious jewels and gold inlays, everything is built to be used. Their shotguns are most commonly used for hunting birds, and their new line of knives are designed to accompany the guns on such excursions. Of course a sleek folding knife like this would also be quite at home in a suit pocket or display case – functioning as an upscale EDC or simply a collectible.

Presentation

The Lama I received for examination is not just any Lama, but a Prima Edizione or “Premiere Edition” of the knife. Limited to 500 pieces, the Prima Edizione arrived in a lovely velvet lined wood box, and was accompanied by a signed and sealed certificate of authenticity. Each knife is one of a kind, and is both serialized and categorized within a historical log at the Famars headquarters. I must say I don’t typically spend much time mentioning the packaging materials, but the box is quite nice and provides an excellent spot to store the knife.

Famars Lama Box

General Dimensions and Blade Detail

Moving on to the knife itself, the Lama is slender tool with an overall length of 7-3/4″ (with both blades deployed, 5-1/2″ with one) and 2 2-1/2″ blades. The weight will vary depending on the options you select, but expect a weight in the neighborhood of 2 to 3 ounces. And there are countless options to choose from. The review will attempt to touch on some of those choices, but really the sky is the limit and each knife is custom made to the purchaser’s exact specifications.

Famars Lama

Famars allows you to build your knife around a wide variety of blade and tool options. My particular model came with two clip point blades honed to a razor’s edge. The inclusion of two blades was interesting, a departure from most modern folders. According Famars this was done to give the user more options. If you were to use this knife to dress birds in the field and one edge were to dull, then the user could simply switch to the other blade. Additionally, you have the option of selecting from a variety of other tools including scissors, a magnifying glass, or even a divot tool for golf fans.

Famars Lama

You also have a wide variety of blade steels to choose from. The Lama is available in 416 layer patterned damascus (with many different patterns to choose from) as well as virtually any stainless steel you desire. Like with every other aspect of the knife the sky is the limit when it comes to steel selection. I found the damascus that my knife came in to be quite good; attractive, razor sharp from the factory, and holding a keen edge after use.

Handle and Ergonomics

The handle of the Lama is quite unique. When examining the exterior there is a distinct absence of any pins or screws holding the handle together. This is part of what gives the Lama it’s designation as the world’s first pinless dual-action automatic knife. The handle fits together thanks to some innovative design work, but more importantly the pinless design creates a wonderful canvas to showcase Famars’ exquisite engravings.

Famars Lama Engraving Options

When it comes to the engravings everything is done in-house by hand, and there is no limit to what can be accomplished. Everything from gold leaf to jewels can be integrated into the handle of your knife, and their engravers can carve any motif desired. For those looking to have a knife that matches their shotgun, well, that is now possible. And naturally you get your choice of handle materials as too (including aluminum, steel, and titanium). Famars has also recently begun offering their knives with various exotic wood and animal hide inlays, more options if you somehow felt restrained by their previous selection.

Famars Lama Engravers

Now, elaborate engravings and a dizzying array of materials is all well and good, but I am a stickler for performance and ergonomics. So I am happy to report that the Lama is just as pleasing to use as it is to look at. I am capable of getting a full grip without any problems and the thumb naturally rests on the spine of the knife. The handles have good thickness and fills the hand, and the “edgeless” design makes melt into your hand. And if you happen to be a fan of slimmer handles, Famars has you covered with their Piccolo model.

Deployment and Lockup

The Lama is a dual action automatic, and with the press of a button the blades spring to life. Both my blades fired fast and hard, and the flash of steel creates quite the conversation piece. Lock-up is solid thanks to a button lock, and the blades are also easy to release once you are done working. One interesting aspect about the knife is the absence of any kind of washers. The Lama is built to extremely tight tolerances so traditional phosphor bronze or teflon washers aren’t required. The fast action makes for a knife that is hard to put down, and with 2 blades at your disposal it is twice as easy to get carried away.

Famars Lama

Famas Lama – Final Thoughts

Like something out of a James Bond movie, the Lama blends style and sophistication to create an exclusive tool with a lot of appeal. No doubt fans of the company’s beautiful firearms will also be interested in the Lama, and I can definitely see the allure to having a custom made knife that matches your custom made gun.

I can also see the Lama appealing to collectors of automatic blades and unconventional designs. There is currently nothing else like the Lama on the market, and for that reason alone it’s worth a closer look. Any way you cut it the Lama is a wonderful blend of old world craftsmanship and cutting edge technology, and should appeal to blade aficionados of all persuasions. It was an absolute pleasure to spend some time with this very exotic knife and I highly suggest checking one out if you have the opportunity.

For more information on the Famars Lama visit the knife’s official website at FamarsLama.com.

Filed Under: Automatic Knives, Collectable Knives, EDC Knives, Folding Knives, Gentleman's Folder

Schrade SMEDB/SMEDY California Issue Knife

by Dan Jackson 3 Comments

The Schrade SMEDB California Issue is often referred to as a large version of the Schrade SCALY a very popular small folding knife that can be easily converted in to a “California Legal” automatic knife.

Schrade SMEDB

Model Name / Nomenclature

It took a little digging around before this really clicked for me but I am fairly certain that SCALY stands for Schrade California Legal, Yellow. SMEDB simply stands for Schrade Medium Black. SMEDY indicates that the handle scales are yellow.

Dimensions, Blade Steel and Specifications

The SMEDB has a 2.5 inch drop point blade with a 3.5 inch handle. At a mere 2.3 ounces, this is a nice every day carry (EDC) option. The knife is made of 440C, a go too steel for Schrade with good durability and edge retention. The SMEDB is a sized knife with a 440C drop point blade with a plain edge and a either a mirror polished finish or a black teflon coating depending on if you get the SMEDY or SMEDB. Schrade does a good job of putting an edge on this blade from the factory however I hit it with a few laps on my fine ceramic stone and a leather strop to get it hair popping sharp. It holds an edge very well.

Schrade SMEDY

Handle

The handle is made out of T6061 aluminum with a black or yellow delrin inserts. The handle is thick and slightly bowed giving it a nice feel in the hand. The pillar style construction of the handle makes it very easy to clean and I like the look of it a lot. A large aluminum push button is a prominent feature on the handle. You have to push the button to release the blade.

Automatic Capable

Ok so a lot of buzz around this knife is that it is an automatic. Well, its often advertised as an automatic, but when it gets to your door it probably won’t be an automatic. That’s due to the various legalities surrounding automatic knives in the US (assuming you are buying this in the States). Generally speaking, you will have to buy a spring for this knife to convert it into an automatic. Depending on where you live that could make the knife illegal so do some research before making the decision. The nice thing is, if you want to make this knife an automatic it is an extremely easy conversion. You can buy a coil spring on ebay (some online merchants carry them too) open up the knife, and the spring drops right in – everything is pre-drilled and ready to go.

Safety

An important feature of this knife (especially if you decide to do an auto conversion) is the safety on top of the handle. It’s a solid sliding lock safety that will keep the knife closed and prevent it from accidentally deploying. If you read my Schrade SCALY review you would know that this safety is a feature we may see disappearing from non-Benchmade automatic knives due to an ongoing lawsuit. If you are interested in this knife, I would buy it now rather than later so you get one with this important safety feature.

Limited Availability

In addition to the safety lock being in danger of disappearing it appears that the entire knife might be going the way of the dinosaur as well. I’ve heard rumors that Schrade is discontinuing these knives. If this is a knife you are interested in, get it while the getting is good.

[easyazon-block asin=”B00181R7KQ” align=”center”]

Filed Under: Automatic Knives, EDC Knives, Schrade

Schrade SCALY California Issue Pocket Knife

by Dan Jackson 3 Comments

The Schrade SCALY is small knife that has received a large amount of attention. There is a lot of interest in a discrete, legal, automatic knife and the Schrade SCALY claims to be just that. Below is my review of the knife.

Blade and Construction

The Schrade Scaly is a small knife that can be converted into a California Legal automatic knife (which Schrade hints at by referring to the SCALY as a “California Issue Pocket Knife”). In order to meet the CA legal automatic knife requirement the blade must be less than 2″ long. The blade on this knife is 1.7″ and made of 440C stainless steel. This is a sharp little leaf shaped blade with a fat flat grind. Really I don’t think you could do a ton of damage with this knife but it could be handy as an EDC item or a backup knife tucked into your boot or something.

Schrade SCALY Review

Buy on Amazon

The handle of this knife is 3.1″ long and is made of lightweight T6061 aircraft aluminum with yellow delrin scales. At 2.1 ounces this is a very lightweight knife that you could easily forget you are carrying. I would have liked to see a lanyard hole on this knife as I think this could make for a decent keychain.

Automatic Capable

I get a lot of emails about the automatic nature of the knife as retailers can be somewhat misleading. The Schrade SCALY is often advertised as an California Legal “automatic” or “spring assisted” knife, and indeed with it’s less than 2″ long blade, this knife is capable of becoming a “California Legal Automatic Knife” with the addition of a spring. However, out of the box this knife is not an automatic knife because it doesn’t have a spring. I’ve heard that you can find springs for this little knife on ebay, open it up and the spring drops right in. Please note that I haven’t tried this personally.

Locking Mechanism and Legal Issues

The SCALY is a popular automatic conversion because it has a lock on the top of the knife. This prevents the knife from accidentally opening. This is a great feature that is becoming harder and harder to find because apparently BenchMade is claiming that they own rights to all automatic knives with safety locks. Benchmade is currently in the middle of a lawsuit over the locks claiming the lock is covered in their patent (Benchmade v. RoadSideImports if you want to do some reading).

Perhaps the lawsuit is why the SCALY does not have a spring – Schrade may have pulled them to get around the lawsuit. At any rate, if Benchmade does win the lawsuit, you may not have access to this feature on Schrade assisted open (or assisted capable) knives so if you want a SCALY or any similar Schrade knife, my advice would be to buy it now.

Schrade SCALBY California Issue Pocket Knife, Yellow Scales, Black handle and Blade
Schrade SCALBY California Issue Pocket Knife, Yellow Scales, Black handle and Blade
  • 1.7" blade, 3.1" handle
  • 400 Series Stainless steel
  • T6061 with scaled insert
  • 2.1 ounces
  • Get your hands on this useful little knife. The scaled handle helps keep the knife from slipping in your hand.
Buy on Amazon

Filed Under: Automatic Knives, EDC Knives, Folding Knives, Schrade

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