Gravity knives have been a subject of fascination and controversy for many decades. With a unique mechanism for deploying the blade and a rich history rooted in military use, these knives have captured the imagination of knife enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Despite their popularity and versatility, however, gravity knives have also been the subject of strict regulation in many countries, due to concerns about their potential for misuse. In this blog post, we will explore the history of gravity knives, from their invention to the present day, and examine the reasons behind their popularity and controversy.
Whether you're a seasoned knife enthusiast or just discovering the world of gravity knives, this post will provide you with a comprehensive guide to this fascinating and complex topic.
10 Best Gravity Knives in 2024
Paragon - Warlock Gravity Knife
The Paragon Warlock is a gravity knife with a unique and unconventional opening mechanism. Unlike most knives that open with a thumb stud or a thumb hole, the Warlock features an oversized, textured pivot that serves as a double button locking system. To open the knife, one must push both sides of the pivot at the same time, which then causes the handle to split apart and reveal the blade. The blade can then be deployed with a flick of the wrist due to gravity.
The blade of the Paragon Warlock is made of high-quality steel and is designed to be durable and reliable. The handle is made of textured materials that provide a secure grip, even in wet conditions. The knife also has a locking mechanism that ensures the blade stays securely in place when open, providing added safety and stability.
It is a great choice for anyone who is looking for a functional, reliable, and entertaining gravity knife that can be used for a variety of tasks.
Reate - EXO Drop Point Gravity Knife
The Reate - EXO Drop Point Gravity Knife is a high-end, premium gravity knife that is designed for those who appreciate quality, performance, and design. This knife features a sleek and stylish drop point blade made from premium-grade high carbon stainless steel.
The blade is then heat treated to a Rockwell hardness of 58-60, ensuring that it stays sharp and can handle tough cutting tasks with ease. The handle is made from high-quality titanium, which is both durable and lightweight, making it ideal for everyday carry. Additionally, the handle is designed with a unique and ergonomic shape that makes it comfortable to hold, even during extended use.
With its innovative and reliable opening mechanism, the Reate - EXO Drop Point Gravity Knife is a top choice for those looking for a high-performance gravity knife.
Fallschirmjäger - Gravity Knife
The Fallschirmjäger Gravity Knife, also known as the Luftwaffe Fallschirmjäger-Messer or the Luftwaffe Paratrooper's gravity knife, was invented during World War II for use by German Luftwaffe pilots.
These knives were designed to be easily deployed with one hand, allowing aviators to cut themselves out of caught or tangled parachutes while still providing utility as a survival or combat knife once on the ground. The Fallschirmjäger Gravity Knife is a unique style of knife that operates via the "operation of inertia, gravity, or both." It typically features a folding blade that can be deployed quickly by flicking the wrist.
While the design of gravity knives has evolved over the years, the Fallschirmjäger Gravity Knife remains one of the most iconic and historically significant models of this style of knife.
Edge Knife Company - Eagle Gravity Knife
The Edge Knife Company's Eagle Gravity Knife was a popular model sold in the 1980s. Today, it is considered a discontinued knife and is considered a collector's item.
This knife is a copy of the Anton Wingen Othello gravity knife, made in Solingen, Germany. Although there has been debate over whether it was made in Taiwan or Japan, it was actually made in Seki, Japan in the 1980s.
The Eagle Gravity Knife features all-metal construction with a chrome finish on the handle, and the blade is made of 440 stainless steel and is factory sharpened. To open the knife, the user can either push the lever and flick their wrist or push the button with the blade pointing downwards. To close the knife, the user can push the button with the blade pointing upwards.
The knife is in excellent condition and is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
Paragon - Phoenix Gravity Knife
The Paragon Phoenix is a gravity knife with a unique and innovative design. It is made from tough and lightweight aluminum with a black cerakote coating process that provides an extremely durable finish.
The blade is made from S90V steel, known for its excellent strength and edge retention. The Phoenix model features a Warlock style opening mechanism that offers rapid one-handed blade deployment, simply by pressing both the top and bottom of the pivot simultaneously. The handle clamps closed under spring pressure and the blade is locked in place, making it a fast, clean, and tight design.
The Paragon Phoenix is a well-designed and highly functional gravity knife, perfect for those who are looking for a reliable tool with a novel mechanism.
Daily Carry Co - MagBlade - Magnetic Titanium Knife
The Daily Carry Co MagBlade Magnetic Titanium Knife is a high-quality gravity style pocket knife designed for everyday carry. It features a unique magnetic locking mechanism and a magnetic butterfly hinge for satisfying opens.
The knife is made from precision machined grade 5 titanium and features a gorgeous polished blade made from M390 blade material. The knife has a sand-blasted titanium finish and is extremely durable.
John Gray - Custom Gravitron OTF Gravity Knife
The Gravitron is a custom OTF gravity knife made by John Gray. It is the first gravity blade OTF built since the mid 90s.
It has a tactical design and is easy to operate with a whisper-quiet deployment. The knife opens by pressing the button and tipping the front of the knife down, and closes by releasing the button. The blade is made from high-quality steel, and the handle is made from aluminum.
The knife is double-edged in appearance but single-edged in function, with a razor-sharp edge on the bottom portion of the blade. The Gravitron is a unique and original design from John Gray, who is known for inspiring many makers and trends in the knife-making community.
Roberto Ottonello - Gravity Knife
The Roberto Ottonello Gravity Knife is a top-of-the-line drop knife designed by an esteemed Italian knife-maker. It features a minimalist and elegant design with a mirror-polished finish.
The knife has a 3.93-inch handle and a hinged outer lock that opens by pivoting, allowing the blade to pivot out from the other end of the knife, which is different from most gravity knives that have an OTF-style opening.
The knife weighs 3.13 ounces and measures 6.88 inches overall. The blade is a 2.75-inch drop point blade made of high-quality Böhler N690 blade steel sourced from Austria.
Bohdan Chalupný - Gravity Knife
The Bohdan Chalupný Gravity Knife is a custom designed gravity knife made by Bohdan Chalupný.
It features a blade made of N690 steel, which is secured by a reliable safety device that prevents both self-retraction and clanking when the knife is closed. The handle of the knife is made of bocote.
The blade of the knife measures 4-inches in length and the total length of the knife is 9-inches.
AKC - Gravit-E Manual OTF Knife
The AKC Gravit-E model is a gravity knife made by handcrafted Italian knife-maker, AKC. It features a black finished spear point blade and a black aluminum handle with a wood inlay.
The innovative compression release lever enables fast opening and closing of the blade by sliding it in or out of the handle. The knife comes with a convenient stainless steel pocket clip for easy access.
What is a gravity knife?
A gravity knife is a type of knife that uses gravity or a flick of the wrist to open the blade, as opposed to other types of knives which typically use manual force or a thumb stud. The blade is usually contained within the handle when not in use, and when the knife is held in a certain position, the blade can be released and locked into place by gravity or centrifugal force.
Gravity knives have gained popularity due to their unique mechanism for deploying the blade and their association with military and tactical use. Their design allows for quick and easy one-handed opening, making them ideal for hunting, fishing, and outdoor activities. The design of gravity knives also appeals to collectors and enthusiasts, who appreciate their history and distinctive look.
However, despite their popularity, gravity knives have also been the subject of controversy and regulation due to concerns about their potential for misuse. In many countries, there are strict laws regulating or prohibiting their sale, possession, or carrying. As a result, it is important to be informed about the laws and regulations in your area before purchasing or using a gravity knife.
Are gravity knifes legal in the USA?
The legality of gravity knives varies by state in the United States. In some states, gravity knives are legal to own and carry, while in others they are restricted or outright prohibited.
For example, in New York state, gravity knives are considered illegal due to a broad definition of the term "gravity knife" that encompasses many types of knives that can be opened with a flick of the wrist. In contrast, in states such as California, gravity knives are legal as long as they are not used in a dangerous or malicious manner.
It is important to note that federal law also regulates gravity knives, and possession of a gravity knife with the intent to use it as a weapon can result in criminal charges.
If you are considering purchasing or carrying a gravity knife, it is important to research and understand the laws in your state and municipality. Ignorance of the law is not a defense, and it is always advisable to consult with a legal expert if you are unsure about the legality of a particular type of knife.
What to look for when buying a gravity knife
When buying a gravity knife, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Blade Material -
Look for a high-quality blade material such as stainless steel or titanium that is durable and resistant to rust and corrosion.
- Blade Design -
Consider the blade design, such as a drop point or tanto blade, and choose one that best suits your intended use for the knife.
- Opening Mechanism -
Ensure that the opening mechanism is smooth, reliable, and easy to use, especially if you plan on using the knife in emergency situations.
- Handle Material -
Look for a handle material that provides a comfortable, secure grip, such as G10, aluminum, or rubber.
- Blade Locking System -
Consider the blade locking mechanism and make sure it is secure and reliable, especially if you plan on using the knife for heavy-duty tasks.
- Legal Compliance -
Make sure the knife you purchase complies with the laws and regulations in your state or municipality, as gravity knives may be restricted or prohibited in some areas.
- Price -
Consider the price of the knife and make sure it fits within your budget, while also ensuring that you are getting a high-quality product.
By taking these factors into consideration, you can ensure that you are purchasing a gravity knife that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, gravity knives have a rich history, dating back to World War II, where they were first designed for use by German Luftwaffe pilots. Despite their controversial reputation, gravity knives remain popular among outdoor enthusiasts, military personnel, and first responders for their quick and easy one-handed deployment.
When buying a gravity knife, it's important to consider factors such as blade material, blade design, opening mechanism, handle material, blade locking system, legal compliance, and price.
In this blog post, we've presented the 10 best gravity knives available to buy, each of which has been carefully selected based on a range of criteria, including design, functionality, and customer reviews.
Whether you're looking for a compact EDC knife or a heavy-duty survival knife, there is a gravity knife on this list that will meet your needs. So, if you're in the market for a gravity knife, be sure to consider one of the 10 options listed above.
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