Two knife companies have recently joined forces to produce a side opening automatic called the OTS (Out The Side) Automatic Tradecraft. Nevada knife making companies Jake Hoback Knives is collaborating with Pioneer Valley Knife (PVK) to bring to market a 3.25-inch automatic designed with first responders in mind. The concept is to have an aesthetically appealing knife that has a very efficient locking system and is very reliable at the same time. TFB was provided CAD files of the Tradecraft, in addition to a photograph also posted on the Instagram page of Jake Hoback, depicting the Tradecraft being prepared for final assembly.

It appears that the blade release button is activated from the left side of the handle and also functions as the unlocking button as well. There is a lanyard loop cut into the bottom of the handle for the placement of a securing lanyard. In addition to the cut in the handle allowing easy prying of the blade should it get stuck. Although the CAD drawings don’t show this, it appears the that production version has rising sun like gripping surfaces that allow users better purchase on the grip.

The Tradecraft will be available in December from the PVK website and in person at the companies showroom in Las Vegas. Price was not provided at this time.

From the press release-

The Tradecraft is an automatic knife with a 3.25-inch blade that features caged pivot bearings and a unique button lock of Jake’s design. It is much stronger than typical automatic knives due to the materials used and structural design of the locking mechanism. When designing this knife, Jake set out to not only create a reliable tool, but also to make a knife that would astound you when you open it.

There are more and more states coming forward to repeal knife laws that restrict the ability of men and women to enjoy carrying and using automatic knives in their daily lives. The demand for these knives from service members and first responders has grown exponentially, as they want the best tools available to execute their missions. The Tradecraft is designed to be a good-looking everyday carry knife that is tough enough to exceed the demands of our first responders and military customers. With a 1/8^th inch blade thickness and 5/32^nd inch thick frame, the Tradecraft fits the hand well and doesn’t take up valuable pocket space.

SPECIFICATIONS

Blade: .125 Thick, CTS-XHP Steel
Frame: .15625 Thick Grade 5 Titanium
Overall Length: 7.5”
Blade Length: 3.25”
Closed Length: 4.375”
Carry Option: Tip Up Right/Left-Handed
Weight: 5oz.

Other Features:

• Button lock
• Pivot Thrust Bearings
• Standard Sizes On All Screws For Ease Of Replacement