Microtech LUDT S/E Gen III Automatic Knife Natural Clear Aluminum/3M, Black M390MK by Tony Marfione (1135-1NC)

LUDT S/E Gen III Natural Clear Aluminum/3M Inserts, Black is an updated version of the iconic L.U.D.T. It not only retains the classic aesthetics of its predecessor but also introduces several significant improvements. The redesigned body features anti-slip 3M inserts, and ball bearings ensure even smoother deployment. Notably, the new design no longer uses patented hardware (screws), allowing the knife to be serviced with standard Torx keys. The blade has retained its 89 mm length, providing the same portability and convenience as the previous model.

The automatic knife is equipped with a powerful spring mechanism that opens the blade, rarely found in knives of this size. This is because the opening must be just as effective underwater as it is in the air, so the spring's force is designed to account for the resistance of the water environment.

This is more than just a knife. It’s a tool that was designed with the most demanding users in mind. Crafted from the finest materials, it boasts unmatched durability and is ready for any challenge. This knife was engineered to meet the expectations of U.S. military special operations units. Its design is the result of extensive research and testing aimed at creating a tool optimized for both functionality and resilience. The blade is made from high-quality Böhler M390MK steel, known for its corrosion resistance and excellent edge retention. The handle is crafted from aluminum, ensuring both lightness and strength, while 3M inserts provide a secure grip even in the toughest conditions. This is not just a tool, but a symbol of reliability and durability. It’s a knife built to withstand anything. Whether you are a special operations operator or an everyday user, this knife will undoubtedly meet your expectations.

LUDT Line - the Microtech L.U.D.T. (Large Underwater Demolition Team) line takes its name from the Navy SEALs Underwater Demolition Team, or UDT. It was the first knife created by Microtech when the company began operations in 1994. A knife bearing such a name must embody professionalism, and the Microtech LUDT series certainly delivers. These knives are exceptionally robust, made from the highest quality materials, and can withstand all the rigors of the battlefield. Its legendary reliability has made it the top choice for the special operations community.

M390MK - a collaboration between Microtech and Böhler engineers has resulted in an exclusive version of M390 steel made only for Microtech. The carbon content has been increased and subjected to closer scrutiny thus improving the properties of M390 steel to provide better edge retention, corrosion resistance and polishing. Martensitic high-performance chromium steel produced by powder metallurgy. Due to its alloy concept, it has extremely high wear resistance and high corrosion resistance. Due to its high wear resistance, it adequately maintains the shape of the edge, so the blade stays sharp for a very long time (requiring minimal maintenance). Another of the advantages is resistance to the formation of “wire” during sharpening. The steel has a high chromium content of 19.0% (Cr) doped with 1.95% carbon (C), vanadium 4.0% (V), and is hardened to 59-61 HRC. This super steel is comparable to Carpenter's CPM 20CV or CTS-204P steels. Manufactured by Böhler Edelstahl in Kapfenberg, Austria.

Blade - machine-ground featuring a S/E (Single Edge) Drop Point type, sharpened on one side with a fuller groove line on both sides for added strength. Finished with a striking Black Finish method, black-coated grinds and blood-draining slots (drainage inlets), the rest of the blade is satin-finished. The expansive belly extends the length of the cutting edge relative to the length of the blade converging toward the needle-sharp tip. The solid blade thickness and long grain combined with a high flat grind gives excellent cutting properties combined with high strength. Ceramic ball bearings assist in opening the blade with a push button, for safety placed in a slight recess. To maintain full control of the blade, there is an upper jimping, notched thumb rest on the back of the wedge. The whole thing is locked with the proven and popular button lock.

Handle - made with perfect precision in 3D technology on CNC milling machines, from 6061-T6 aluminum anodized in black Mil-Spec Hard Coat. Perfectly fitted inlays (inlay) of special 3M Traction Tape material with sandpaper texture make the knife does not slip in the hand during use. The solid backspacer to which the grips are attached guarantees the rigidity and strength of the entire structure. On the Handle there are notches (jimping) for a more secure grip. Ergonomic profile and a single-position (right) solid clip, allow the knife to be carried discreetly in the pocket, in tip-down position (blade tip down). The back features a lanyard hole, a place for a safety or decorative cord.

Technical data:
Product number: 1135-1 NC
Product name: L.U.D.T.® S/E Gen III  Natural Clear Aluminum/3M Inserts, Black Standard

Overall length: 203.0 mm / 8.00”
Blade length: 88.9 mm / 3.5”
Blade thickness: 3.3 mm / 0.13”
Handle length: 114.0 mm / 4.5”
Handle thickness: 13.5 mm / 0.53”
Weight: 102.0 g / 3.6 oz

Blade material: Böhler M390MK
Blade hardness: n.d.
Blade grind: Flat
Blade finish: Black coating

Handle material: Aluminum 6061-T6 / 3M Inlay
Handle finish color: Gray / Black
Backspacer material: Aluminum 6061-T6
Backspacer color: Gray

Clip: Right, Tip-down
Clip material: Stainless Steel

Pivot mechanism: Ball bearings
Locking mechanism: Button Lock
Opening method: Automatic, push button
Additional accessories: None

Designer: Tony Marfione
Brand: Microtech
Manufacturer: Microtech Knives
Country of origin: USA

Developed by: the Sharg® company