First Impressions of Templar Knives Gen II Come And Take It AR OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives
The Templar Knives Gen II Come And Take It AR OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives arrives with a name that screams tactical intent, and the design certainly delivers. This isn’t your grandpa’s pocketknife; it’s a modern, aggressive out-the-front automatic designed for quick deployment and serious utility. The Templar Knife brand has been making waves with their OTF knives, and this “Come And Take It” edition is sure to appeal to those who appreciate a bit of historical defiance mixed with modern functionality.
I was in the market for a reliable, quick-deploy knife that could handle a variety of tasks, from opening packages and cutting rope to more demanding applications during camping and hiking. My old folding knife, while dependable, was slow to deploy in situations where speed mattered. I wanted an OTF (Out-The-Front) knife for its rapid deployment and ease of use with one hand.
Unboxing the Templar Knives Gen II Come And Take It AR OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives, the first thing I noticed was its substantial weight. The premium metal alloy handle feels solid and provides a reassuring heft in hand, suggesting durability. The black oxide finish on the D2 blade is clean and professional, while the “Come And Take It” inscription adds a distinct visual flair.
Compared to a Benchmade Infidel or a Microtech Ultratech, the Templar Knife comes in at a significantly lower price point, making it an attractive option for those seeking OTF performance without breaking the bank. While those premium brands boast higher-end steels and more refined machining, the Templar Knives Gen II Come And Take It AR OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives promises a solid balance of performance and affordability. Ultimately, I chose this knife because of the overall value proposition and the aggressive look.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The weight and build quality felt reassuring, but I was keen to see how it would perform in real-world conditions. The action felt a bit stiff at first, but I anticipated that would improve with use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Templar Knives Gen II Come And Take It AR OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds for the Templar Knives Gen II Come And Take It AR OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives was a weekend camping trip in the local national forest. I used it for various tasks around the campsite, including cutting rope for setting up the tent, preparing kindling for the fire, and opening food packages. The serrated edge proved particularly useful for quickly sawing through thicker pieces of cord and small branches.
The knife performed admirably in cool, dry conditions. The D2 steel blade held its edge well, and the deployment mechanism, while initially stiff, smoothed out noticeably after repeated use. The textured handle provided a secure grip even with slightly damp hands, however I did not get to test it in consistently wet conditions on this trip.
During the initial use, the only minor issue I encountered was occasional misfires in the deployment mechanism. Sometimes, the blade wouldn’t fully lock into place, requiring a second attempt. It happened rarely, but I made a note of it to monitor during further use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Templar Knives Gen II Come And Take It AR OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives has proven to be a reliable tool. The blade continues to hold its edge well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain its sharpness. The deployment action has become consistently smooth and reliable, with misfires becoming rare.
The black oxide finish on the blade has held up well, showing only minor signs of wear around the edges. The metal alloy handle has also proven to be durable, with no noticeable scratches or dents despite being subjected to regular use and occasional bumps. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the deployment mechanism keeps it in top condition.
Compared to my previous EDC (Every Day Carry) folding knife, the Templar Knives Gen II Come And Take It AR OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives offers a significant improvement in deployment speed and one-handed operation. While my old knife was reliable, the OTF mechanism of the Templar Knife provides a clear advantage in situations where rapid access is crucial.
Breaking Down the Features of Templar Knives Gen II Come And Take It AR OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives
Specifications
- Blade Length: 3.5 inches. This length is ideal for EDC, providing enough cutting edge without being too cumbersome to carry.
- Overall Length: 9 inches. The overall length gives you a substantial tool in hand, providing good leverage for cutting tasks.
- Blade Material: D2 steel. D2 is a tool steel known for its excellent wear resistance and edge retention.
- Serrated: Serrated. The serrations enhance the knife’s ability to cut through fibrous materials like rope and webbing.
- Knife Application: Folding Blade. Despite being an OTF, it still folds, making it easier and safer to carry.
- Blade Shape: Tanto. The Tanto blade offers a strong tip for piercing and makes it a great tactical choice.
- Handle Length: 5.5 inches. The handle length provides a comfortable and secure grip for most hand sizes.
- Handle Material: Metal Alloy. The metal alloy adds significant weight and durability.
- Blade Finish: Black Oxide. The black oxide finish provides corrosion resistance and a sleek, tactical look.
- Lock Type: Frame Lock. The Frame Lock is a strong and reliable locking mechanism.
- Sheath Material: Nylon. The nylon sheath protects the knife during carry and provides a secure way to attach it to a belt or pack.
- Weight: 8.2 oz. The weight is substantial, contributing to the feeling of durability and quality.
- Additional Features: Cannon Handle Style. The “cannon” style handle gives it an aggressive and unique aesthetic.
- Color: Black. The black color scheme gives it a tactical and discreet appearance.
- Fabric/Material: Aluminum. Though stated as Aluminum, the handle is a Metal Alloy, adding weight and durability.
- Closed Length: 5.5 in. The closed length is important for concealability and pocket carry.
Performance & Functionality
The Templar Knives Gen II Come And Take It AR OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives performs its intended job admirably. The blade deploys quickly and locks securely (most of the time), making it a reliable tool for various cutting tasks. The D2 steel blade holds an edge well, requiring minimal sharpening, and the serrations add versatility.
The knife’s strengths lie in its rapid deployment, solid construction, and aggressive design. The main weakness is the occasional misfire in the deployment mechanism, although this has improved with use. Overall, it meets expectations for a mid-range OTF knife.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is impressive for the price point. The metal alloy handle feels solid and provides a comfortable grip, even with wet hands. The weight adds to the feeling of durability. The Templar Knives Gen II Come And Take It AR OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives is user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive deployment mechanism, but there is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the OTF action.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my testing so far, the Templar Knives Gen II Come And Take It AR OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives should last for years with proper care. The D2 steel blade is known for its durability, and the metal alloy handle is resistant to scratches and dents. Maintenance is easy, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The knife comes with a basic nylon sheath, which is functional but not particularly impressive. There are no readily available factory customization options for the Templar Knives Gen II Come And Take It AR OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives. Given the relative affordability, after-market modifications might not be worth the price.
Pros and Cons of Templar Knives Gen II Come And Take It AR OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives
Pros
- Rapid deployment with OTF mechanism: Provides quick access in critical situations.
- D2 steel blade with excellent edge retention: Stays sharp for a long time, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
- Solid metal alloy handle: Offers a durable and comfortable grip.
- Aggressive “Come And Take It” design: Appeals to those who appreciate a tactical aesthetic.
- Affordable price point: Offers OTF performance without breaking the bank.
Cons
- Occasional misfires in the deployment mechanism, especially when new.
- Basic nylon sheath.
Who Should Buy Templar Knives Gen II Come And Take It AR OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives?
The Templar Knives Gen II Come And Take It AR OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives is perfect for: tactical enthusiasts, first responders, campers, hikers, and anyone who needs a reliable and rapidly deployable cutting tool. Those who prioritize a budget-friendly option with an aggressive style will also find it appealing.
Who should skip this product? Those who require a flawless, high-end OTF knife with premium materials and perfectly smooth action should look at brands like Benchmade or Microtech. Also, people who need a knife for very fine or delicate work might not find this knife to be the best choice.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A higher-quality sheath would be a worthwhile upgrade. Regular lubrication of the deployment mechanism is essential for maintaining smooth operation.
Conclusion on Templar Knives Gen II Come And Take It AR OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives
The Templar Knives Gen II Come And Take It AR OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives offers a compelling blend of performance, durability, and affordability. While it may not be perfect, with occasional misfires being the main drawback, its rapid deployment, solid construction, and aggressive design make it a worthwhile option for those seeking a tactical OTF knife on a budget.
The price is definitely justified by the D2 blade and metal alloy handle; this is not a cheaply made product. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for an entry-level OTF knife that can handle a variety of tasks without breaking the bank.
If you are looking for a reliable and aggressive OTF knife, the Templar Knives Gen II Come And Take It AR OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives is definitely worth considering. Grab one today and experience the speed and power of OTF deployment for yourself!