Fox ATCF OG Micarta Folding Knife 18

Ok I wrote previous review and was super pleased with overall execution and design at this price point. But now I'd like to address the elephant in the room.... let's talk about this pocket clip. I've noticed throughout the yrs that ATCF knifes all have only one screw holding them in place or they are integrated into liner, in some sort of hidden connection. Well in this case, on the Fox OG, it is just one screw. Mine loosened after 2 weeks of use. A huge amount of rotational leverage against nothing but a small screw and the sidewalls of the recessed micarta to hold it. I took a torx wrench and found that indeed it had loosened up. Removing the screw I also noticed there seemed to be no loctite or other thread locker. Anyway, I think a 2 or 3 screw design reduces that rotational movement and unless there is a feature on the clip that would nest into frame somehow, one single screw is not sufficient for hard use/carry. I've since tightened it down with loctite, added a very thin layer of epoxy to fill the gaps between the micarta and the clip itself and 2 weeks on, still holding. We'll see. One other small point, liner lock engagement on mine is small when opened slowly. Won't lock sometimes. When using flipper this is not an issue as it swings with enough rotational mass/inertia to allow the liner lock to fully engage. Just some more observations. Still love the Terzuola design and feel of this knife.

Well, I recently found about this knife a bit late to the party. I now see that early discussions began earlier this year, and now being resident of US, this knife seems to be "coming soon" from just about all dealers. I found Heinnie Haynes had stock, so i purchased one. I am very happy being able to get my hands on it. As a big fan of Terzuola's work, I am always excited to see a collaboration between a reputable knife company and Mr. Terzuola. So let's get to it.. first impression??? Amazing. Presentation, box, pouch, bag etc.. nice for a sub 300 USD price tag. Opening the knife with thumb disc is like butter with the bearing pivot. And then using the flipper, also, smooth. Lockup is rock solid with no play laterally or vertically. The attention to the original ATCF design is great (although I've never owned a custom ATCF myself) Now for some issues. The scale screws sit a bit proud of the scale. So you can feel the edges of the screw. This is a quality issue with the mfr not taking the time to countersink the micarta enough for screw head to fit flush. Minor detail but a detail nonetheless (not to mention, a pretty easy fix with a drill bit manually deepening the countersink). Second issue, centering when closed. Not centered. Some might find this annoying. As long as the blade isn't rubbing, I don't really care, personally, but another quality strike, that I am not able to correct without full dissassembly to see where the issue is, something I'm not going to do. Overall, I'm super happy to finally have an ATCF. Fox did a great job overall, and I'll be looking at this company going forward.

I always wanted a blade of the Bob Terzuola design and was tempted by the Titanium handle version, however it comes with a stonewashed blade that I don't like, so I purchased the Micarta version. I have absolutely no regrets over that decision as the Micarta grips are superb and the black material is a huge improvement over the green Micarta so many others insist on using. I also love the bronzed fittings. The blade design, finish and sharpness are also excellent. I think for the price point I haven't purchased a better knife and can't think of one. It's truly worth every penny. If you buy this knife and love it half as much as I do, you will be very happy with your purchase.