While we may never have the same needs as an Underwater Demolitions Team (UDT), also known as frogmen, the elite members who were the first Navy SEALs it’s nice knowing we have access to a knife made to handle the same levels of abuse.

Of course, I’m talking about the Microtech LUDT, LUDT stands for Large Underwater Demolition Team. Built to be a true utility tool, Microtech didn’t skimp on the build quality.

Blade: Mine is made in quality 204p steel (they are known to change metals based on supply). It’s water-resistant while remaining easy to sharpen. It’s much sharper than what normally ships from the factory and it same jimping on the top to give the user a better grip when using it.

Handle: The handle is a lightweight, yet strong anodized aluminum. This allows it to have a lot of durabilities while keeping it light so you’ll forget you’re even carrying it. The only downside I have with the handle is that it is built nice and sleek, which makes it harder to acquire a solid grip when in less than ideal (wet) conditions. Because of this, I carry this every day when off duty but it’s simply too slippery for me to carry on the job.

Deployment: Anyone who’s ever used a Microtech knows that they build the most powerful automatic deploying blades known to man. The blade comes out faster and with more force than any other side-opening automatic knife I’ve ever used. The competition simply doesn’t come close. It has enough force to reliability open while underwater and that is not something I can say about the vast majority of automatic knives.

Verdict: I LOVE this knife! If you have the ability to buy one I highly suggest you do. Yes, Microtech knives are more expensive than most but you absolutely get what you pay for. This was my first Microtech knife but it instantly sold me on the brand, I have since added others and have been completely satisfied with every single one.

The one single negative I have about it is the slippery handle. It’s still my EDC knife when off duty and for 99% of us, is perfect for carrying every day. But if you regularly work or are in areas with slippery conditions (snow, rain, blood, ice), then maybe you should look at some of the competition.
Stay safe, be kind, and help those in need.