OTF, Folding Automatic & Italian Switchblade Knives
Shop in-stock automatic knives from Southern Sporting Goods LLC, a trusted U.S. seller since 2014 and an authorized dealer for Microtech and Venom USA™. Compare double-action OTF knives, push-button folding automatics and classic Italian switchblades from Microtech, Venom USA™, Gerber, AKC, Bear & Son and Smith & Wesson.
Choose by blade style, steel, size and price—from budget-friendly everyday carry models to premium American-made knives. Every order includes free U.S. and APO/FPO/DPO shipping, discreet packaging and 30-day returns.
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Venom USA™ Knives
Venom USA knives deliver fast, responsive automatic action and dependable tactical performance without the premium price tag. Built with rugged materials and practical designs, these knives offer outstanding everyday value and are backed by warranty protection for added confidence.
Venom USA™ is exclusively sold at Southern Sporting Goods (SSG). All rights reserved.
- Fast, powerful automatic action
- Rugged tactical construction
- Covered by the Venom USA™ warranty for added peace of mind
About Automatic Knives
Automatic knives, also known as switchblades, are precision-engineered folding knives that deploy the blade automatically via a spring-loaded mechanism. With a simple press of a button or lever, the blade opens instantly, making them a favorite among collectors and tactical enthusiasts. These knives combine craftsmanship with functionality, offering premium materials and Italian-inspired designs.
Automatic Knife FAQ
Find answers to common questions about automatic knives, OTF knives, folding automatics, blade styles, maintenance, everyday carry, and purchasing automatic knives online.
An automatic knife is a folding knife whose blade opens automatically when a button, lever, or switch on the handle is activated. An internal spring-powered mechanism deploys the blade and locks it into the open position. Automatic knives include side-opening folding models and out-the-front, or OTF, knives.
Automatic knife and switchblade generally describe the same type of spring-powered knife. Automatic knife is the term commonly used by manufacturers and retailers, while switchblade is a traditional term frequently used in laws and everyday searches. Exact legal definitions can vary by jurisdiction.
An automatic knife deploys when a button or switch located on the handle is activated. An assisted-opening knife requires the user to begin moving the blade with a thumb stud, flipper, or similar feature before the spring assists with the remainder of the opening. This mechanical difference may also affect how each knife is classified under applicable laws.
The two primary types are OTF automatic knives and side-opening automatic knives. An OTF knife sends the blade straight out through the front of the handle. A side-opening automatic, also called a folding automatic knife, swings the blade outward from the side like a traditional pocketknife.
Most OTF knives sold for everyday carry, collection, or professional use are automatic, but OTF describes the direction in which the blade travels—not necessarily how it is powered. Manual OTF designs also exist. Check the product specifications to determine whether a particular knife is automatic, manual, single-action, or double-action.