Let’s Dive into Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife
The Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife is a budget-friendly option designed for everyday carry. Manufactured by Mtech, this folding knife features a spring-assisted opening mechanism, a stainless-steel blade, and an aluminum handle. It promises quick deployment and a lightweight design, appealing to those seeking a basic, easily accessible cutting tool without breaking the bank.
I stumbled upon the Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife while searching for a backup knife to keep in my truck’s emergency kit. I needed something inexpensive but reliable enough to handle basic cutting tasks in a pinch, prioritizing quick access and ease of use over high-end materials or specialized features.
Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly light, which I initially took as a positive. The aluminum handle felt smooth, perhaps too smooth for a secure grip in wet conditions. The spring-assisted action was snappy, though the overall construction felt less robust than some of my higher-end folders.
Compared to my Kershaw Blur (S30V steel, aluminum handle, ~$80) and my CRKT M16-14SFG (AUS 8 steel, G10 handle, ~$60), the Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife felt noticeably cheaper. I chose the Mtech due to its extremely low price point, accepting that I would be sacrificing material quality and durability for affordability. Its secondary screwdriver feature also intrigued me.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was neither blown away nor immediately disappointed, understanding its limitations given the price. I hoped it would prove functional for light-duty tasks, and was curious to see how it would hold up under more rigorous use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife was a weekend camping trip. I used it for tasks like opening food packages, cutting rope for setting up the tent, and whittling small kindling for the campfire. The blade performed adequately for these light tasks, though it required frequent sharpening.
The knife struggled slightly in damp conditions. The aluminum handle became slippery when wet, requiring a firmer grip and reducing confidence during use. The spring assist mechanism functioned reliably throughout the weekend, although I did notice some slight stickiness developing by the end of the trip.
The initial ease of use was a definite plus. The spring-assisted opening was quick and intuitive, and the blade locked securely in place. However, the smooth handle and the basic blade steel raised concerns about long-term durability and performance under more demanding conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of sporadic use, the Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife shows noticeable signs of wear and tear. The black coating on the stainless-steel blade is scratched and worn in several places. The spring assist, while still functional, is noticeably weaker and requires more effort to deploy the blade.
The edge retention is poor, requiring frequent sharpening to maintain a reasonable cutting ability. The aluminum handle has held up surprisingly well, with only minor scratches and dents. Cleaning is simple, usually involving a quick wipe down with a damp cloth, though I occasionally apply a drop of oil to the pivot point to maintain smooth action.
Compared to my other knives, the Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife falls short in terms of overall performance and durability. It serves its purpose as a very inexpensive backup tool, but it doesn’t inspire confidence for demanding or critical tasks. The Mtech would be outperformed by my other knives in a survival situation.
Breaking Down the Features of Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife
Specifications
The Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife features a black coated stainless-steel blade. Its spear point shape is fairly versatile for piercing and slicing, but the stainless-steel quality is basic. The blade’s closed length is 4.5 inches, making it a compact option for pocket carry.
The handle is made of titanium coated aluminum. This contributes to the knife’s lightweight design, but also impacts its grip quality, especially in wet conditions. It also features an IKBS ball bearing system for assisted opening. Additional features include a screwdriver tip on the handle and a pocket clip for convenient carry.
The Manufacturer is Mtech. This typically signifies budget-oriented knives using less expensive materials and construction techniques. The Blade Type is a Folding Blade, allowing for safe and compact storage.
Performance & Functionality
The Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife’s primary function is to provide a readily accessible cutting tool. The spring-assisted opening allows for quick deployment with one hand. The blade is adequately sharp out of the box.
However, the blade’s edge retention is poor, requiring frequent sharpening to maintain optimal performance. The screwdriver tip is a useful addition for minor tasks, but its placement on the handle makes it awkward to use in tight spaces. While functional, it lacks the refinement of higher-end knives.
Overall, the Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly option. Its performance is adequate for light-duty tasks, but it isn’t suitable for demanding or prolonged use. It struggles when being used to cut tough materials.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife boasts a lightweight design due to its aluminum handle and relatively thin blade. The knife is comfortable enough to hold for short periods, but the smooth handle can become slippery during extended use or in wet conditions. The pocket clip is functional, but its placement could be improved for deeper carry.
There’s a minimal learning curve associated with the Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife. The spring-assisted opening mechanism is intuitive and easy to operate. The blade locks securely in place, providing a degree of safety during use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife’s long-term durability is questionable. The stainless-steel blade is prone to scratching and corrosion. The aluminum handle is relatively durable, but could be susceptible to denting or bending under significant force.
Maintenance is relatively simple. Regular cleaning and occasional oiling of the pivot point are sufficient to keep the knife functioning smoothly. However, the need for frequent sharpening suggests that the blade steel is not particularly resistant to wear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife doesn’t come with many accessories. The pocket clip is permanently affixed and cannot be easily removed or replaced. There are no readily available aftermarket scales or handle upgrades, limiting customization options.
Due to its budget-oriented design, the Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife doesn’t support many common accessories. Its non-standard pivot screw and fixed pocket clip limit the options for personalization and enhancement. The knife is largely a standalone item with limited potential for modification.
Pros and Cons of Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife
Pros
- Extremely affordable price point, making it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Spring-assisted opening for quick and easy one-handed blade deployment.
- Lightweight design, making it comfortable for everyday carry.
- The spear point blade is a very versatile shape.
- The added screwdriver can be handy.
Cons
- Low-quality stainless steel blade with poor edge retention.
- Slippery aluminum handle, especially in wet conditions.
- Questionable long-term durability and overall build quality.
Who Should Buy Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife?
The Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife is perfect for individuals seeking an extremely inexpensive, readily accessible cutting tool for light-duty tasks. It suits casual campers, occasional DIYers, or anyone needing a backup knife in an emergency kit. The Mtech is a decent option as a first knife for kids.
This product is not suitable for serious outdoorsmen, survivalists, or anyone who relies on their knife for demanding tasks. Users who require a durable, high-performance cutting tool should invest in a higher-quality option. Also, avoid if you expect extreme reliability.
A must-have modification would be aftermarket grip tape to add some tack to the handle. A higher quality knife sharpener would also be highly recommended.
Conclusion on Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife
The Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife offers a basic level of functionality at an exceptionally low price. Its spring-assisted opening and lightweight design make it appealing for those seeking an easy-to-carry, readily accessible cutting tool.
However, its low-quality materials and questionable durability are significant drawbacks. The value proposition is debatable. It’s hard to expect a high-quality product at this price point.
I would only recommend the Mtech MT-A705 Spring Assisted Knife to individuals on an extremely tight budget who understand its limitations. For anyone else, investing in a slightly more expensive knife with better materials and construction is a worthwhile investment. If you need a cheap knife and are okay with replacing it if it breaks, go for it, otherwise, look elsewhere.
