The MSI is awesome, but which do you prefer?
Published: 1 day ago
MSI microtechs EDC folder
https://www.bladehq.com/cat--Microtech-MSI-Microtech-Standard--4898?srsltid=AfmBOooIUA1IR4UilgPFiD21oWbYM_gWe0KvMzG8EXihPJBV1ye0UzTO
The Microtech Standard Issue (MSI) is a recent folding knife introduced in 2023. It is notable for introducing Microtech's proprietary Ram-Lok crossbar locking mechanism and M390MK blade steel. Designed as a robust, user-friendly, and accessible EDC (Everyday Carry) knife, the MSI combines practical utility with the high-end manufacturing Microtech is known for.
Key milestones in the MSI's history
Introduction at SHOT Show 2023: The MSI was first unveiled at the SHOT Show in early 2023, generating significant buzz in the knife community. It was seen as a major release because it was a new manual folding knife design, a departure from Microtech's popular automatic and out-the-front (OTF) knives.
Initial Ram-Lok issues and quick resolution: The Ram-Lok mechanism had a "shaky launch" due to early failures. However, Microtech quickly addressed and fixed the issue. Knives manufactured since 2024 have corrected the problem, with the crossbar lock now praised for its strength and reliability.
Evolution of handle materials: The MSI was initially offered with G-10 handle scales. Microtech later introduced more affordable models with injection-molded polymer handles. Premium versions with carbon fiber and other high-end materials have also been produced.
Expansion of the product line: Since its release, the MSI has been offered in different blade finishes, handle colors, and with serrated or plain edges. This expansion has appealed to a wider range of customers, from tactical users to collectors.
Significance of the MSI
The MSI is more than just another knife in the Microtech catalog—it represents a new direction for the company in the manual folder market.
Advanced locking mechanism: The Ram-Lok system was Microtech's first proprietary crossbar lock, providing an alternative to other popular lock types. Its coil spring design is noted by some reviewers as being less prone to failure than the omega springs used by other companies.
Accessible price point: Early iterations of the MSI were strategically priced below the $300 mark, making a premium American-made folder with a proprietary lock more accessible to enthusiasts.
New steel and design elements: The MSI was also the first knife to feature Microtech's exclusive Bohler M390MK steel, a specialized version of the premium M390 stainless steel known for its edge retention. It also incorporated design cues from Microtech's more famous automatic knives, like the "Iconic X Button" on the Ram-Lok.
https://www.bladehq.com/cat--Microtech-MSI-Microtech-Standard--4898?srsltid=AfmBOooIUA1IR4UilgPFiD21oWbYM_gWe0KvMzG8EXihPJBV1ye0UzTO
The Microtech Standard Issue (MSI) is a recent folding knife introduced in 2023. It is notable for introducing Microtech's proprietary Ram-Lok crossbar locking mechanism and M390MK blade steel. Designed as a robust, user-friendly, and accessible EDC (Everyday Carry) knife, the MSI combines practical utility with the high-end manufacturing Microtech is known for.
Key milestones in the MSI's history
Introduction at SHOT Show 2023: The MSI was first unveiled at the SHOT Show in early 2023, generating significant buzz in the knife community. It was seen as a major release because it was a new manual folding knife design, a departure from Microtech's popular automatic and out-the-front (OTF) knives.
Initial Ram-Lok issues and quick resolution: The Ram-Lok mechanism had a "shaky launch" due to early failures. However, Microtech quickly addressed and fixed the issue. Knives manufactured since 2024 have corrected the problem, with the crossbar lock now praised for its strength and reliability.
Evolution of handle materials: The MSI was initially offered with G-10 handle scales. Microtech later introduced more affordable models with injection-molded polymer handles. Premium versions with carbon fiber and other high-end materials have also been produced.
Expansion of the product line: Since its release, the MSI has been offered in different blade finishes, handle colors, and with serrated or plain edges. This expansion has appealed to a wider range of customers, from tactical users to collectors.
Significance of the MSI
The MSI is more than just another knife in the Microtech catalog—it represents a new direction for the company in the manual folder market.
Advanced locking mechanism: The Ram-Lok system was Microtech's first proprietary crossbar lock, providing an alternative to other popular lock types. Its coil spring design is noted by some reviewers as being less prone to failure than the omega springs used by other companies.
Accessible price point: Early iterations of the MSI were strategically priced below the $300 mark, making a premium American-made folder with a proprietary lock more accessible to enthusiasts.
New steel and design elements: The MSI was also the first knife to feature Microtech's exclusive Bohler M390MK steel, a specialized version of the premium M390 stainless steel known for its edge retention. It also incorporated design cues from Microtech's more famous automatic knives, like the "Iconic X Button" on the Ram-Lok.