The new Gen 3 LUDT by Microtech - Still awesome?
Entertainment
Introduction
Before diving too deep into this knife, a huge thank you goes to Clay at eknives.com for sending it over. I messaged him about borrowing the new LUDT Gen 3 for a review, and he was incredibly accommodating. He shipped it out entirely on his dime.
I wanted to get one of these in hand because I’ve owned two LUDTs in the past. Not a lot, considering this model dates back to the mid-1990s. I had the Stormtrooper white drop point and one of Tony Marfione’s custom LUDTs with a sick, mirror-polished black DLC blade. However, at that time, small knives weren’t really my thing. But when I glimpsed images of the new Gen 3, I was captivated by its thumb ramp and refined blade shape.
Unboxing the blue-colored LUDT Gen 3, kindly provided by Clay, got me eager to dive into the review. I’d like to mention that all Microtech knives are 100% American-made, as confirmed by the American-made logo on the packaging. Despite some assumptions due to Microtech collaborations with Reate Knife, you can rest assured of this fact.
Eknives.com is a great place to shop for Microtech and Marfione Customs, among other brands. Their pricing is fair, and their customer service is top-notch. The people behind e-knives are knife enthusiasts just like us, making shopping with them a pleasant experience.
Specifications
- Blade Length: 3.45 inches
- Cutting Edge: 3.125 inches
- Closed Length: 4.55 inches
- Overall Length: 8 inches
- Blade Style: Tanto
- Blade Thickness: 0.133 inches
- Weight: 3.46 ounces
The Microtech LUDT Gen 3 features some aesthetic upgrades, such as an aggressive Fuller groove along the blade and a new thumb ramp. The Fuller groove, coupled with a crowned spine, makes holding the knife comfortably. While some may object to the logo billboard across the blade, removing the black PVD would also alter its pleasing appearance.
Microtech's LUDT, now featuring proprietary M390MK steel, performs exceptionally well. The horizontal satin finish on the blade and aluminum handle keep the weight light, making it an everyday carry contender. Interestingly, the action seems more robust than any LUDT I have ever handled, due to the 24 ceramic ball bearings around the pivot, resulting in a smooth and strong deployment.
Ergonomic and Functional Upgrades
I genuinely appreciate the rubberized 3M traction inlays in the frame for a secure grip. The raised back spacer is another improvement, enhancing both function and aesthetics.
Microtech knives are known for their solid feel, and this one is no exception. The Tanto blade variant with black PVD is beautifully paired with the blue aluminum handle. With prices ranging from $ 265 to $ 300, the LUDT Gen 3 remains reasonably priced despite material and production cost hikes post-2020.
Conclusion
Overall, the LUDT Gen 3 is an impressive tactical-style, side-opening automatic knife. I find myself seriously considering purchasing it. A big thank you to eknives.com for allowing me to review this kick-ass knife.
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Keywords
- Microtech
- LUDT Gen 3
- Tactical knife
- Eknives
- American-made
- M390MK steel
- Aluminum handle
- Folding knife
- Automatic knife
- Knife review
FAQ
Q: Is the Microtech LUDT Gen 3 made in the USA? A: Yes, all Microtech knives, including the LUDT Gen 3, are 100% American-made.
Q: What is the blade length of the LUDT Gen 3? A: The blade length measures 3.45 inches.
Q: What makes the LUDT Gen 3 different from previous models? A: The Gen 3 model features improvements like a new thumb ramp, Fuller groove along the blade, crowned spine, and ergonomic updates such as rubberized 3M traction inlays.
Q: What steel is used in the LUDT Gen 3? A: The LUDT Gen 3 uses Microtech's proprietary M390MK steel.
Q: How much does the LUDT Gen 3 weigh? A: It weighs approximately 3.46 ounces.
Q: Where can I buy the LUDT Gen 3? A: It's available for purchase on eknives.com and other reputable knife retailers. Prices range from $ 265 to $ 300, depending on the retailer.