Microtech UTX-85 Gen IV D/E OTF Knife Tan Aluminum, Apocalyptic F/S M390MK by Tony Marfione (12324-D12APTA)

Microtech UTX-85 Gen IV D/E Tan Aluminum, Apocalyptic F/S M390MK by Tony Marfione (12324-D12APTA) – a compact OTF automatic knife with full serration

Microtech UTX-85 Gen IV D/E Tan Aluminum, Apocalyptic F/S M390MK by Tony Marfione (12324-D12APTA) is a compact OTF automatic knife featuring the D/A system, designed as a smaller, more manageable version of the legendary Ultratech. The model retains the speed, precision, and full functionality of the Out The Front design, but offers a more comfortable format for everyday carry. The blade is made of Böhler M390MK steel, features a D/E profile, an F/S edge, a flat grind, and an Apocalyptic finish, creating a configuration optimized for aggressive cutting, effective piercing, and high durability. The handle is made of 6061-T6 aluminum in Tan, featuring a Thumb Slide, Slide Lock, right/left clip, tip-down orientation, and a glass breaker with a tungsten carbide ball, all of which reinforce the practical nature of the UTX-85 Gen IV model.

Böhler M390MK – Microtech powder steel for the compact OTF

Böhler M390MK is a high-performance powder steel developed for Microtech in collaboration with Böhler, designed with a focus on wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and long-lasting sharpness. In the UTX-85 Gen IV model, it performs well when cutting straps, cords, belts, plastics, and fibrous materials, where edge durability and predictable blade performance are essential. The Apocalyptic finish gives the blade a rugged, slightly weathered look and helps mask minor marks that develop during regular use.

D/E F/S and flat grind – double-edged blade with full serration

The D/E profile denotes a double-edged blade with symmetrical geometry, designed for precise tip control and effective piercing. The F/S version is fully serrated on both sides, making it highly effective at cutting fibrous materials, ropes, belts, tapes, and plastics that require an aggressive cutting edge. The flat grind facilitates smooth blade guidance through the material, maintaining a favorable balance between cutting efficiency and blade strength. This combination gives the UTX-85 Gen IV D/E F/S a distinctly technical, task-oriented character.

6061-T6 Aluminum and D/A OTF – quick operation, secure grip, and low-profile carry

The handle, made of 6061-T6 aluminum, is precision-machined to maintain a compact form and ergonomics suited for everyday use. The surface texture, milling, and jimping on the spine and underside improve grip control, even during rapid blade deployment. The D/A OTF mechanism allows the blade to be extended and retracted using the same Thumb Slide, which requires deliberate pressure for safe operation. The deep carry clip allows for discreet carrying of the knife in a tip-down position, and the window breaker with a tungsten carbide ball expands the functionality of the design in emergency situations.

Why choose the Microtech UTX-85 Gen IV D/E Tan Aluminum?

The Microtech UTX-85 Gen IV D/E Tan Aluminum is designed for users who expect a compact OTF automatic knife with a fast-acting mechanism, robust geometry, and high-quality materials. Böhler M390MK steel ensures long-lasting edge performance, the D/E profile enhances precision during point-cutting, and the full F/S serration improves cutting efficiency on fibrous materials. The handle made of 6061-T6 aluminum ensures durability and a secure grip, while the D/A mechanism allows for quick one-handed deployment and retraction of the blade. This is an OTF automatic knife for those who value reliability, a compact design, and Microtech’s technological precision.

Key features at a glance

• Böhler M390MK — high-performance powder steel.
• D/E — double-edged blade with symmetrical geometry.
• F/S — full serration on both sides of the blade.
• Flat grind — effective blade glide through material.
• Apocalyptic — a rugged finish that masks minor imperfections.
• D/A OTF — automatic blade deployment and retraction via a slide switch.

Technical data

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I care for and sharpen the Böhler M390MK steel in the UTX-85 Gen IV model?

Böhler M390MK steel should be cleaned and dried after use, especially after contact with moisture or dirt from cut materials. A diamond sharpener or a high-quality ceramic system works best for sharpening smooth sections. Serrated sections of the blade require careful maintenance using appropriately selected ceramic rods or serration tools.

How does the D/A OTF mechanism work in the Microtech UTX-85?

The D/A OTF mechanism allows the blade to be extended and retracted by moving the same Thumb Slide. The blade moves forward and backward along the handle axis, so the knife can be operated with one hand without the classic side-to-side opening motion.

What does D/E F/S mean?

D/E F/S stands for a Double Edge blade with full serration. The blade is sharpened on both sides and fully serrated on both sides, which increases its effectiveness when cutting ropes, straps, tapes, and fibrous materials.

How does the UTX-85 differ from the Ultratech?

The UTX-85 is about 85% the size of a full-size Ultratech, making it a better fit for smaller hands and more comfortable for everyday carry. However, it retains the OTF mechanism, the glass breaker, and the core functionality of the larger model.

Does the Microtech UTX-85 Gen IV have a glass breaker?

Yes, the handle features a glass breaker with a tungsten carbide ball. 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 data.

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