During my time at the NRA’s 2023 convention, I found a captivating array of custom knives from Pro-Tech. Crafted right here in the U.S. — California, of all places — these knives offer a diverse range of options.
Pro-Tech boasts an extensive selection of blades, ranging from fixed blades to manual opening and spring-assisted knives. However, I will concentrate on the automatic knife collection, which offers a staggering 338 options. Prices vary from around $160 to a premium $9,000 model. With a variety of blade styles, materials and grips, there’s something for everyone.
Maximum Minimalist: Pro-Tech Runt 5
Among the impressive display at the Pro-Tech booth, one automatic blade caught my attention: the Runt 5. This petite automatic knife, featuring OD green aluminum handles, is not just visually appealing but also boasts practicality. It is Pro-Tech’s best-selling automatic blade for a number of reasons.
First off, it is legal in California and other locales where it often isn’t legal to carry a full-sized automatic knife. The Runt 5’s blade is only 1.96 inches long. Its handle length is 3.25 inches, and it weighs only 2.08 ounces. Perfect for everyday carry, the Runt 5 excels in the many mundane tasks everyday concealed carry knives are often used for, making it a versatile tool for various situations. And some that I showed the Pro-Tech Runt 5 to said it would be a great knife for skinning deer … a use I wouldn’t have thought of.
I requested a Runt 5 with a Reverse Tanto blade rather than the optional Wharncliffe style. The blade is formed from CPM Magna Cut Steel and features a stonewash finish. CPM Magna Cut Steel is hailed as a premium stainless steel, celebrated for its exceptional toughness, wear resistance and corrosion resistance. The blade was sharpened effortlessly on my Smith & Wesson pocketknife sharpener, ensuring that your Runt 5 is always ready for action.
Operation and Design
The Runt 5 is a side-opening knife. Pressing a slightly recessed flat button on the left handle releases the blade into its locked position. This same button also serves to unlock a locked blade. There is no additional safety latch holding the blade closed. When you push the button to open the blade, make sure you are holding it tightly, there is a lot of torque dispensed by the spring, which locks the blade in place.
Handles of the Runt 5 typically feature textured aluminum, available in a variety of colors. I selected OD Green with “impressed checkering” style non-slip handles simply because it photographs well. A tip-up pocket clip with lanyard hole comes already mounted.
Carrying the Runt 5
Whether with or without the pocket clip, the Runt 5 sits comfortably in your pocket, ready for action. It is very convenient to carry and handled my mundane cutting tasks effortlessly. From opening packages to handling unexpected situations, the Runt 5 automatic knife excels without drawing unnecessary attention.
Who Should Own a Pro-Tech Automatic Knife?
Pro-Tech’s Runt 5 is a finely crafted blade that brings all the fun and utility to people residing in areas where larger automatic knives face legal restrictions. Its unique design and practicality make it a must-have for every knife enthusiast. Pro-Tech’s commitment to quality, combined with the option for custom touches, positions the Runt 5 as a worthy investment.
To acquire your own Runt 5, check Pro-Tech’s authorized dealers. Blade HQ, one of their premier dealers, offers the Runt 5 for $165. Although a waitlist may be in order, the assurance of an American-made knife guaranteed for life with customizable features makes it well worth the wait. Explore the entire Pro-Tech lineup at ProtechKnives.com and elevate your self-defense preparedness with the exceptional Runt 5.
