Although SOG (Studies and Observations Group) was founded in 1986, it can trace it’s lineage to the Vietnam War. When members of a highly classified special operations unit known as MACV-SOG, carried a unique combat knife into the jungles of Vietnam. This knife inspired a young designer named Spencer Frazer to reproduce the SOG Bowie knife. And pay tribute to the MACV-SOG unit that originally carried it. Since then, Studies and Observations Group has become a titan of industry forging some of the best knives and tools used by military and law enforcement today. And the Strat Ops Auto is no exception.
The Blade
The backbone of any edged tool is the blade itself. This is where it all comes to a point. Selection of blade steel not only dictates the cost of manufacturing but the knifes ability to do the job it’s intended for. Sparing no expense on this USA built automatic folder, SOG has selected premium CPM-S35VN steel for its blade. This American made steel, developed by Crucible Industries, is known for improved toughness, better edge retention, higher resistance to wear and edge chipping. All while maintaining corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening. Finally, the 3.5″ straight blade is finished with a sleek black Cerakote finish. To say the least, the Strat ops has a strong backbone.
The Handle
How a knife feels in the palm of your hand is of great importance, so handle material is critical. SOG utilizes linen micarta for the Strat Ops. Created from soaking layers of linen cloth in resin, then pressing them together, this material produces a smooth yet durable material. Due to the smooth properties of linen micarta, SOG designers relief-cut four grooves as well as a SOG logo into the handle scales. Offering the needed grip for a solid purchase on the 4.4″ handle. Additionally, SOG incorporated a heavy notched jimping at the top of the handle and spine of the blade for added grip. On the opposite side of the handle is a skeletonized steel reversible low-carry pocket clip.
I’d be remiss not to mention the automatic opening feature of the Strat Ops. Of course, automatic opening knives are NOT legal in all states and cities. So check your local laws before acquiring a Strat Ops. With the simple push of a button, the 3.5″ blade comes to life with a lightning-quick opening. Positively locking it in place for whatever the task. Whether it’s self-defense, hunting, fishing or whatever, this auto deploys in a hot second. To prevent an accidental pocket discharge, SOG incorporated a clever locking safety switch on the opposite side of the handle.
SOG Strat Ops Auto Specs courtesy of sogknives.com:
- CLOSED LENGTH: 4.4″
- PRODUCT WEIGHT: 3.70 OZ
- BLADE LENGTH: 3.5″
- BLADE THICKNESS: 0.11″
- PRODUCT FAMILY: SOG-TAC
- PRODUCT TYPE: FOLDING KNIFE
- COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: USA
- LOCKING MECHANISM: AUTOMATIC
- OPENING MECHANISM: AUTOMATIC
- BELT CLIP TYPE: REVERSIBLE LOW-CARRY
- PACKAGING: PRESENTATION BOX
- ENGRAVABLE: YES
- FINISH: HARDCASED BLACK
- EDGE TYPE: STRAIGHT
- BLADE STEEL TYPE: S35VN
- BLADE SHAPE: STRAIGHT BACK
- HARDNESS: RC. 59-60
- HANDLE MATERIAL: LINEN MICARTA
- HANDLE COLOR: BLACK
- MSRP: $189.95
Weighing in at only 3.7oz., the Strat Ops is very comfortable as an EDC knife. I’m a big fan of SOG knives and this one is no different. This stealthy back beauty has been in my pocket for a over a year now and I’m continually impressed with the performance and feel. The low-carry clip keeps the end of the knife below the pocket line. Which is a nice feature for those that prefer not to advertise what they’re carrying. If you’re looking for a premium USA-built EDC knife, look no further than the Strat Ops from SOG. As always, all SOG products are covered by their lifetime warranty.
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