With American made quality, SOG Knives has served the civilian, military and law enforcement industries faithfully for many years. For this reason, they are constantly pushing the envelope on innovation and dependability. Its latest offering of the SOG-TAC AU Compact brings to market an automatic that addresses a common complaint about autos.
The SOG-TAC AU Compact
Building on the popularity of its SOG-TAC folding knife, SOG has rebuilt the platform from the ground up. The design changes come from input from professionals and defensive carry users. Perhaps the most innovative design feature in the AU is the Double-Action Safety. This comes as a result of many automatic knife users complaining about having to unlock the safety before actuating the opening mechanism.
Utilizing its AU-XR Double-Action Safety the AU unlocks and brings the 2.94-inch blade to bear simultaneously. Additionally, the Double-Action Safety is ambidextrous, which is uncommon for side opening automatic knives.
The slender anodized aluminum body, coupled with the light weight of 2.8 ounces, offers very little footprint in the pocket. Housed in the textured aluminum body is the Cryo D2 blade, available in both drop point and tanto. Also available are serrated versions of each profile. With an overall length of 7.01 inches, the AU is an EDC workhorse for military, first responders and defensive carry alike.
In keeping with the ambidextrous design, the skeletonized pocket clip is reversible for right- or left-hand tip-up carry. The pocket clip sits slightly below the butt, offering a higher ride in the pocket for rapid retrieval.
The SOG-TAC AU Compact is the first release in the AU line. However, two other models will be coming soon. First is the SOG-TAC AU, with 3.43-inch blade. Second is the SOG-TAC AU Compact CA Special, with a 1.96-inch, California auto compliant blade. Likewise, all models will be available in tanto or drop point and offer an optional serrated model.
Although bans on automatic knives are being lifted all over the country, be sure to check your local laws and ordinances before purchase.
Availability
The SOG-TAC AU Compact is available now, with an MSRP of $124.95. For more info, please visit SOGKnives.com.
SOG-TAC AU Compact Specs
Blade Material: Cryo D2
Blade Length: 2.94 inches
Overall Length: 7.01 inches
Closed Length: 4.06 inches
Blade Thickness: .11 inch
Opening Mechanism: AU-XR Lock
Locking Mechanism: AU-XR Double-Action Safety
Handle Material: Textured Anodized Aluminum 6061-T6
Weight: 2.8 ounces
MSRP: $295.00