A superb slicer: Microtech Anax - Tanto/DLC

Published: 1 week ago

Anax in Black


The Microtech Anax Tanto DLC is a premium manual folding knife known for its robust integral titanium handle, M390 steel tanto blade with a durable DLC coating, and smooth ceramic bearing pivot system. It is a collaboration between Microtech and Rike Knife.

Specifications:

Blade Material: According to knifecenter.com, the blade is made from Bohler M390 stainless steel, a premium powder metallurgy steel offering high edge retention and corrosion resistance.

Blade Finish: The blade features a stealthy and scratch-resistant DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating.
Handle: The handle is an integral (one-piece) construction of 6Al4V titanium with a black DLC finish and a carbon fiber inlay. This design is praised for its exceptional reliability and solid feel.

Opening Mechanism: It is a manual folder that can be opened using a front flipper mechanism or a fuller groove for a thumb/middle finger flick.

Locking Mechanism: It utilizes a secure frame lock with an integrated lock bar and tab insert for user safety.

Pivot Assembly: The knife rides on a ceramic bearing pivot system (specifically 32 silicon nitride balls) for a consistently smooth action.

Included Accessories: The Anax comes with a set of proprietary tool bits for the pivot and hardware, as well as two interchangeable titanium lanyards.

Build Quality: Users and experts note the "perfect fit and finish" and solid integral construction. It is often described as feeling close to a custom knife in quality.

Action: While some reviewers mention that the pivot can be stiff initially and requires some breaking in or loosening with the included tool, the action becomes very smooth once adjusted. The detent is secure, and the "Spidey flick" method using the fuller is especially popular.

Ergonomics: The contoured titanium handle feels good in the hand, and the ball-bearing pocket clip is functional. However, the included lanyards can create a hot spot for some users and are often removed.

Aesthetics: The DLC finish provides durability, though one user noted it tends to develop a matte appearance over time rather than staying glossy. The overall design, inspired by the emperor dragonfly, is considered both robust and elegant.