Microtech Ultratech Gen III EX-ZBP Bayonet Signature OTF Knife Black Aluminium, Stonewashed M390MK by Tony Marfione (1120EX-10S)

Microtech Ultratech Gen III EX-ZBP Bayonet Signature Black Aluminum, Stonewashed M390MK by Tony Marfione (1120EX-10S) is an OTF automatic knife featuring the Zero Blade Play™ system.

Microtech Ultratech Gen III EX-ZBP – OTF Signature Series with Zero Blade Play™

Microtech Ultratech Gen III EX-ZBP Bayonet Signature Black Aluminum, Stonewashed M390MK by Tony Marfione (1120EX-10S) is an advanced OTF automatic knife with a D/A system, part of the Signature Series. The EX-ZBP model builds upon the Ultratech design with the Zero Blade Play™ solution, which is designed to reduce blade play after the blade is extended. Combined with the Dual-Fuel Drive Train™ mechanism and the Crud Kutter™ system, the result is an OTF automatic knife with smooth operation, fluid handling, and refined mechanics.

The blade, made of Böhler M390MK steel, features a Bayonet profile, a flat grind, and a Stonewashed finish—a combination designed for precise tip control, effective precision cutting, and high durability. The handle, made of 6061-T6 aluminum with a black finish, a titanium clip with a rollerball, a Thumb Slide mechanism, and a glass breaker highlight the technical and collectible nature of this variant.

Böhler M390MK – Microtech’s powder-coated steel for precision 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 Ultratech Gen III EX-ZBP model, this material performs well when cutting tape, film, cardboard, cord, straps, and plastics, where stable edge performance and predictable blade guidance are essential.

The Stonewashed finish gives the blade a rugged, technical look and helps mask minor marks that develop during regular use. Paired with a black aluminum handle, it creates a more subdued, functional aesthetic than variants with a lighter-colored body, while still maintaining the character of the collectible Signature series.

Bayonet and flat grind – symmetry, piercing, and control

The Bayonet profile is distinguished by its slender, technical geometry and a clearly defined tip, which facilitates precise blade guidance and effective point work. The flat grind facilitates smooth gliding of the blade through the material, maintaining an optimal balance between cutting sharpness and structural strength. The absence of serrations ensures that the cutting edge remains versatile and easier to maintain.

The tang grooves enhance the blade’s technical appearance, and the EX-ZBP format gives this Ultratech a more advanced character than classic OTF versions. The blade design is well-suited for users who expect a precise tip, stable handling, and high-quality steel in a compact, automatic EDC knife.

Zero Blade Play™, Dual-Fuel Drive Train™, and Crud Kutter™ – mechanics with zero play

The most important feature of the EX-ZBP model is the Zero Blade Play™ system, designed to reduce blade play after deployment. The Dual-Fuel Drive Train™ mechanism improves smoothness and reduces the force required to activate the slide, while maintaining the blade’s fast, decisive action in the D/A OTF system.

The Crud Kutter™ solution uses angled cuts beneath the slide that help reduce the buildup of debris that could interfere with the mechanism’s operation. As a result, the Ultratech Gen III EX-ZBP combines the speed of an OTF with greater blade stability when open and a design suited for everyday carry.

Black Aluminum and Titanium Clip with Rollerball

The handle, made of 6061-T6 aluminum with a black finish, was machined with high precision, maintaining the slim profile and technical aesthetic characteristic of modern Microtech designs. The dark body complements the Stonewashed blade well, creating a cohesive, functional Signature Series variant with a distinctive yet understated character.

Jimping on the spine and underside enhances grip control, while the titanium deep-carry right/left tip-down clip with a rollerball makes it easy to slide the knife into a pocket and reduces friction against the fabric. The handle features a glass breaker with a steel pyramid and a tungsten carbide ball, which expands the knife’s functionality in emergency situations.

Why choose the Microtech Ultratech Gen III EX-ZBP Bayonet Signature Black?

The Microtech Ultratech Gen III EX-ZBP Bayonet Signature Black is designed for users and collectors who expect an OTF automatic knife with smooth operation, minimal blade play, and a premium finish. Böhler M390MK steel ensures long-lasting edge retention, the Bayonet profile enhances effectiveness with precise tip control, and the Zero Blade Play™ system improves blade stability when open.

The Dual-Fuel Drive Train™ mechanism, the Crud Kutter™ solution, a titanium clip with a rollerball, and a black aluminum handle create a design refined for both practical use and collectors. This is the model for those who want to combine the proven Ultratech format with Microtech’s new generation of mechanics.

Key Features at a Glance

• Böhler M390MK: Microtech powder-coated steel with high durability.
• Bayonet: a slim profile for precise tip control.
• Flat grind: effective blade guidance through the material.
• Stonewashed: a work-worn finish that masks minor scratches.
• Zero Blade Play™: a system that reduces blade play when open.
• Dual-Fuel Drive Train™: smoother operation of the OTF mechanism.
• Crud Kutter™: notches that reduce debris buildup.

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Zero Blade Play™ system work?

Zero Blade Play™ is a blade-locking system designed to reduce blade play after the blade is extended. This allows the OTF knife to maintain greater rigidity during use and offers a more stable feel than classic automatic designs with greater blade movement.

What is the Dual-Fuel Drive Train™?

Dual-Fuel Drive Train™ is a drive system responsible for smoother blade deployment and retraction in the OTF mechanism. This solution reduces the force required to activate the slide, while maintaining the knife’s fast and decisive automatic operation.

What is the Crud Kutter™ used for?

Crud Kutter™ is a series of angled notches 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 Bayonet profile stand out?

Bayonet is a slim profile with symmetrical, technical geometry, designed with an emphasis on precise tip control and effective point work. In this variant, the lack of serrations facilitates ongoing edge maintenance.

How do you care for and sharpen Böhler M390MK steel?

After use, clean the blade, dry it thoroughly, and periodically coat it with a thin layer of oil. For sharpening Böhler M390MK, it is best to use diamond or CBN sharpening stones, finishing with a fine grit.

Does the Microtech Ultratech Gen III EX-ZBP have a glass breaker?

Yes, the handle features a glass breaker in the form of a steel pyramid 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 specifications.

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