When you’re picking a new knife, things can get confusing fast. There are automatic knives, spring assisted knives, and button lock knives—but what do all those words mean? Don’t worry. We’re going to break it all down so it’s easy to understand.
What Is an Automatic Knife?
An automatic knife (sometimes called a “switchblade”) opens with the push of a button. That’s it! Just press, and the blade jumps out fast.
Here’s what makes it special:
- One-handed opening
- Very fast blade release
- Strong opening mechanism
But watch out—some states don’t allow automatic knives. Always check your local laws before carrying one.
Great for: emergency responders, military use, or anyone needing fast, one-hand use.
⚙️ What Is a Spring Assisted Knife?
A spring assisted knife looks a lot like an automatic, but it’s not quite the same.
You start opening the blade with your hand or thumb, and then a spring kicks in to help finish the job.
Key points:
- You start the motion
- Spring helps finish the opening
- Often legal where automatics are not
These knives are pretty fast but still count as manual in many places, which means they’re more legal-friendly.
Great for: everyday carry (EDC), outdoor work, and folks who want speed without legal worries.
What Is a Button Lock Knife?
A button lock isn’t about how the blade opens—it’s about how it stays closed (or open).
This lock uses a button you press to release the blade, usually on a folding knife. Sometimes, button lock knives are also automatics or spring assisted—so don’t get confused!
What makes a button lock special?
- You press a button to unlock the blade
- Safe and easy to use with one hand
- Found on both autos and manuals
Great for: folks who want simple, one-handed control and easy safety features.
| Feature | Automatic Knife | Spring Assisted Knife | Button Lock Knife |
| Opens Automatically? | ✅ Yes | ❌ Not fully | ❌ Not always |
| Legal Everywhere? | ❌ No | ✅ Mostly | ✅ Mostly |
| Easy One-Hand Use? | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Button Controls Blade? | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (for locking only) |
| Good for EDC? | ⚠️ Sometimes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Blade Speed? | ⚡ Super Fas | ⚡ Fast | 🐢 Depends on mechanism |
Which Knife Is Right for You?
If you want the blade to pop out with zero effort, go automatic—just make sure it’s legal where you live.
If you want speed without the legal risks, go spring assisted—fast and more accepted.
If you want easy lock control or extra safety, try a button lock knife—great for comfort and control.
Let’s Clear Up Some Confusion
Can a Knife Be Both Automatic and Button Lock?
Yep! Some knives have both features. That means you get the fast push-button opening and the secure locking button. But again—laws matter. Be careful where you carry it.
Are Spring Assisted Knives Legal?
Most places say yes! Spring assisted knives are not the same as switchblades under many laws. But always double-check. Some cities or states have their own rules.
Is a Button Lock Safer?
In many cases, yes. Button locks are easy to control, and you don’t have to fight a tough liner lock or frame lock to close your blade. That’s a win for safety and ease of use.
Best Uses for Each Knife Type
- Automatic Knife: Military, EMTs, survival kits
- Spring Assisted Knife: Pocket carry, camping, toolboxes
- Button Lock Knife: Safe EDC, kids learning knife safety (with supervision)
What About the Law?
Knife laws change from state to state (and even city to city). Here’s a simple rule:
- Automatic knives? Double-check.
- Spring assisted knives? Usually fine.
- Button locks? Usually okay, but check the blade type too.
Want to be sure? Check with local law enforcement or look up state knife laws online.
Why Knife Type Matters
Choosing between automatic vs spring assisted vs button lock isn’t just about how cool the knife looks. It’s about:
- How fast you can open it
- How safe it is to use
- Where you’re allowed to carry it
When you pick the right style for your needs, you’ll have a knife that’s not just handy—but reliable.
Top Knife Recommendations (By Type)
Looking to get started? Here are some common choices folks love:
Automatic Knife:
- Benchmade Claymore
- Boker Kalashnikov
Spring Assisted Knife:
- Kershaw Blur
- CRKT M16
Button Lock Knife:
- SOG Terminus XR LTE
- Civivi Altus
💡 Pro tip: Some knives may fall into more than one category!
What Knife Does the Military Use?
You’ve probably heard that Navy SEALs use automatic knives, and it’s true! Models like the Benchmade Auto Presidio or Gerber 06 Auto are favorites for their strength, speed, and simplicity.
They need something that works fast and under pressure, which is why automatic knives are the go-to in tactical situations.
What's the difference between spring assisted and automatic knives?
Spring assisted knives need your hand to start the opening. Automatic knives open by pressing a button, with no extra help needed.
Why are spring assisted knives illegal?
They’re not always illegal, but some places treat them like switchblades. Check your local laws to be safe.
Is a button lock knife a switchblade?
No. A button lock controls the lock, not the opening. Only if it opens by button press could it be a switchblade.
What is the difference between OTF and OTS knives?
OTF knives open straight forward. OTS knives open out from the side. Both are types of automatic knives.
Ready to Pick the Right Blade?
Whether you’re shopping for your first knife or upgrading your everyday carry, knowing the difference between automatic knives, spring assisted blades, and button lock styles makes the choice simple.
