FIRST LOOK | SOG’s Flash AT Assisted Folding Knife

I recently received the upcoming SOG Flash AT Assisted Opening Folding Knife for review. It’s the third iteration of the constantly evolving SOG Flash II that’s expected to drop in May 2020. I’ve owned knives from Studies and Observations Group and have always appreciated the high quality at a great price point. A few things that grabbed me when I first opened the package were the blue color of the grip, its solid feel and how full the grip felt in my hand compared to my other SOG Folder.

Flash AT Video Review:

“SOG’s XR Lock delivers high lock strength, ambidextrous one-handed operation, and a self-adjusting locking mechanism as it wears to deliver a lifetime of secure lock-up. Larger SOG products featuring XR Lock, especially those intended for Professional and hard use, benefit from fixed blade-like feel, with the lock often able to withstand nearly 2000 pounds of pressure.” -sogknives.com

Spec’s for the Flash AT are as follows:

• CRYO D2 Stainless Steel
• Partially serrated blade
• Assisted opening AT-XR Lock
• Ambidextrous spine mounted safety
• Ergonomic handle design
• Reversible pocket clip
• Weight 4.48 oz
• Blade length 3.13”
• Closed length 5.0”
• Overall length 8.14”
• MSRP: $82.95 Available in May 2020

I see the Flash AT as an urban utility knife for daily chores as opposed to a defensive knife. Obviously any knife can step into the road of a defensive knife but my preference for a defensive knife is a fixed blade. One feature of this knife I like is that the clip allows for deep pocket carry, where only the clip is visible when it’s in your pocket. This keeps it from attracting unwanted attention from the casual looker. The deep pocket carry also means that it is not a quick draw folder. At least not for me.

The Flash AT is a member of SOG’s DAILY line of tools.

“This group is as confident as they are self-reliant. They’re go-getters. Problem-solvers. Whatever comes their way they’re ready for it. Functional and minimal, they prefer understated solutions that blend in with their lifestyle.” -sogknives.com

I’ve been using it for daily chores the past few weeks for everything from opening mail, cutting cord, opening packages and bags of feed for the critters in the yard. The Flash AT handled all tasks without a hitch. I prefer a partially serrated blade since it provides options for cutting different materials. The spine mounted safety provides additional peace of mind that if the knife falls into the wrong or young hands that it can’t be opened with knowledge of how the safety operates and when not engaged it doesn’t get in the way of operation or take away from the aesthetics of the knife. I think this is a nice feature for households with children where the knife could accidentally be left within their reach. The blade comes out smoothly with a flick of the thumb and locks securely in place. Sliding the ambidextrous release to the rear allows the blade to smoothly fold closed.

In conclusion, I really like this knife for a working knife and it has become my everyday carry knife. I recommend the SOG Flash At to anyone who is in the market for a quality working knife that will give you years of service.

“Flash AT is compact and easy to carry, with a highly functional 3.5 inch cryogenically heat-treated stainless steel blade. Its powerful XR locking mechanism also features reliable built-in blade locking safety. The next evolution of the popular Flash.” -sogknives.com

Use code 15GearBunker2020 for 15% off your order

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