Microtech Ultratech Gen IV D/E OTF Knife Tan Aluminum, Black M390MK by Tony Marfione (11224-1TA)

Microtech Ultratech Gen IV D/E Tan Aluminum, Black M390MK by Tony Marfione (11224-1TA) – full-size OTF D/A automatic knife

The Microtech Ultratech Gen IV D/E Tan Aluminum, Black M390MK by Tony Marfione (11224-1TA) is a full-size OTF automatic knife operating on the D/A system, designed as a modern take on Microtech’s flagship design. The fourth generation of the Ultratech builds upon the proven Out The Front formula, introducing solutions that improve the mechanism’s operation, handling, and durability for everyday use. The blade, made of Böhler M390MK steel, with a D/E Dagger profile, a flat grind, and a Black coating finish, creates a configuration designed for effective piercing, precise tip control, and stable cutting. The handle made of 6061-T6 aluminum in Tan, the Dual-Fuel Drive Train™ and Crud Kutter™ systems, the Thumb Slide, right/left clip, tip-down, and glass breaker highlight the practical, tactical nature of the Gen IV model.

Böhler M390MK – Microtech powder steel for OTF knives

Böhler M390MK is a high-performance powder steel developed for Microtech in collaboration with Böhler, designed with a focus on wear and corrosion resistance as well as long-lasting sharpness. In the Ultratech Gen IV model, this material performs well when cutting tape, foil, cardboard, cord, straps, and plastics, where stable edge performance and predictable blade guidance are essential. The Black coating finish gives the blade a dark, technical look, reduces light reflections, and complements the tactical color of the handle well.

D/E Dagger and flat grind – symmetry, penetration, and control

The D/E Dagger profile features a double-edged blade with symmetrical geometry, designed for precise tip control and effective piercing. The central blade line and fuller grooves on both sides enhance the model’s technical appearance, while the flat grind facilitates smooth blade passage through material. This design is well-suited for an OTF automatic knife, which is intended to combine fast operation, control, and high durability. The D/E variant stands out for its more task-oriented nature compared to versions with a single-sided blade.

Dual-Fuel Drive Train™ and Crud Kutter™ – fourth-generation mechanics

The Ultratech Gen IV utilizes the D/A OTF automatic mechanism, which allows the blade to be extended and retracted using the same Thumb Slide. The Dual-Fuel Drive Train™ solution improves the mechanism’s smoothness and reduces the force required to activate the knife, while maintaining the blade’s fast, decisive action. The Crud Kutter™ system features angled cuts beneath the slide, limiting the buildup of debris that could interfere with the mechanism’s operation. As a result, the fourth generation of Ultratech retains the practical nature of an EDC tool but offers a more refined user experience than previous versions.

Tan Aluminum and Steel Clip – A Lightweight Handle for Everyday Carry

The handle, made of 6061-T6 Aluminum, is precision-machined to maintain the slim profile typical of the Ultratech series. The Tan color gives the knife a tactical, outdoor character, while the surface texture and jimping on the spine and underside improve grip control. The right/left tip-down stainless steel clip allows the carrying style to be adjusted to the user’s preferences. The handle features a glass breaker, which expands the model’s functionality in emergency situations while remaining an integral part of the design.

Why choose the Microtech Ultratech Gen IV D/E Tan Aluminum?

The Microtech Ultratech Gen IV D/E Tan Aluminum is designed for users who expect a full-size OTF automatic knife with modern mechanics, a lightweight construction, and tactical blade geometry. Böhler M390MK steel ensures long-lasting edge performance, the D/E Dagger profile enhances precision cutting, and the D/A OTF mechanism allows for quick one-handed deployment and retraction of the blade. The Dual-Fuel Drive Train™ and Crud Kutter™ systems improve handling, the aluminum handle combines durability with low weight, and the bottle opener extends the knife’s functionality beyond typical EDC tasks.

Key features at a glance

• Böhler M390MK — Microtech powder steel with high service life.
• D/E Dagger — double-edged blade with symmetrical geometry.
• Flat grind — effective blade guidance through material.
• Black coating — dark, technical blade finish.
• Dual-Fuel Drive Train™ — smoother operation of the OTF mechanism.
• Crud Kutter™ — notches that reduce debris buildup.

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

How to care for and sharpen the Böhler M390MK steel in the Ultratech Gen IV model?

Böhler M390MK steel should be cleaned and dried after use, especially after contact with moisture, sweat, or debris from cut materials. A diamond sharpener or a high-quality ceramic system works best for sharpening, as powder steel with high wear resistance requires an effective abrasive and a stable angle.

How does the D/A OTF mechanism work in the Ultratech Gen IV?

The D/A OTF mechanism allows the blade to be extended and retracted by moving the same Thumb Slide. The blade moves back and forth along the handle axis, so the knife can be operated with one hand without the need for a traditional side-fold mechanism.

What is the Dual-Fuel Drive Train™?

Dual-Fuel Drive Train™ is the Gen IV drive system responsible for smoother blade extension and retraction. This solution reduces the force required to activate the slide, while maintaining the fast and decisive operation of the OTF mechanism.

What is the Crud Kutter™ for?

Crud Kutter™ is a series of angled cuts beneath the opening slider that helps reduce the buildup of debris that could interfere with the mechanism’s operation. It’s a practical solution for users who carry a knife every day.

What makes the D/E Dagger profile unique?

The D/E Dagger is a double-edged blade with symmetrical geometry, designed for precise tip control and effective piercing. This profile gives the Ultratech a more task-oriented character than versions with a single-edged blade.

Does the Microtech Ultratech Gen IV have a glass breaker?

Yes, the handle features a glass breaker. This is a structural element of the knife that expands its functionality in emergency situations, but it is not listed as a separate accessory in the technical specifications table.

Prepared by: Specialists at Sharg® – Your expert in EDC and cutting tools