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

LUDT S/E Gen III Merlot Aluminum/3M Inserts, Black The updated L.U.D.T. not only retains the iconic aesthetics of its predecessor, but also makes some significant improvements. The redesigned body features 3M non-slip inlays, and Ball bearings provide an even smoother opening. It's worth noting that the new design doesn't have the patented hardware (screws), so the knife can be serviced with ordinary Torx keys. The blade has retained its 89mm length, which provides the same comfortable handling as its predecessor.

The switchblade knife is equipped with a powerful spring-loaded blade-opening mechanism, rarely found in knives of this size. This is because the opening must be as effective underwater as in the air, so the spring force takes into account 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. Made from the finest materials, it features unmatched durability and is ready for any challenge. This automatic knife was designed to meet the expectations of operators of special units of the US Army. Its design is the result of long-term research and testing to create a tool that is optimal in terms of functionality and durability. The blade is made of high-quality Böhler M390MK steel, which is known for its corrosion resistance and long sharpness retention. The Handle of the knife is made of aluminum for lightness and strength. Special 3M inlays ensure a firm grip even in the toughest conditions. This is not only a tool, but also a symbol of reliability and durability. This is a knife that will survive anything. Whether you are a special unit operator or a casual user, this knife is sure to meet your expectations.

LUDT Line - Microtech's L.U.D.T. (Large Underwater Demolition Team) line takes its name from the Navy SEALs Underwater Demolition Team unit, or UDT for short. It was the first knife created by Microtech when it began operations in 1994. A knife that uses such a name must feature professionalism, and the Microtech LUDT series absolutely does. They are very solid, made of the highest quality materials and can withstand all the rigors of the battlefield. And its legendary reliability has made it the first 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 between 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 S/E (Single Edge) type, single-sided sharpened with a long line of grain grooves on both sides of the blade for reinforcement. Finished with a striking Two Tone 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 the 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. 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: 1135-1MR
Product name: L.U.D.T.® S/E Gen III Merlot Aluminum/3M, 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, Two Tone

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

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