Short answer: For a first OTF or a daily carrier, the $50 SideKick (side switch, serrated dagger, glass breaker) or $50 FrontKick (face switch) is the gift. For a smaller pocket or a stocking stuffer, the $25 Wasp or Hornet nano. Not sure what they'd carry, or what's allowed where they live? Send an Uppercut gift card.
Automatic knives are restricted in some states and cities. Check the recipient's local laws first: OTF knife laws by state. This is not legal advice.
Picks by budget
Under $30: stocking stuffers
- Wasp Nano OTF, $25: 2" 3Cr13 blade, 5" overall, flat aluminum handle, 60 g. Slim enough for dress pants or a coin pocket.
- Hornet Nano OTF, $25: same 2" blade and 60 g, with a contoured grip that fills the hand more.
$50: full-size daily carry
- SideKick OTF, $50: 2.75" double-edge dagger, one plain and one serrated edge, 7" overall, zinc alloy handle, reversible clip, glass breaker.
- FrontKick OTF, $50: 3" 3Cr13 dagger blade, 3 oz, rubber-coated aluminum handle, switch on the face of the handle.
$75: the pair
A full-size SideKick or FrontKick plus a Wasp or Hornet as the backup. One for work, one for the pocket where the big knife won't fit.
Picks by use
- Truck or car: SideKick, for the glass breaker on board.
- Opens and closes it all day (boxes, tape, zip ties at work): FrontKick, the face switch is easier to run over and over.
- Office, dress pants, gym bag: Wasp.
- Bigger hands or a small-knife first-timer: Hornet.
- Don't know their carry or their local laws: an Uppercut gift card. They pick.
Gift cards
The Uppercut Tactical gift card comes in $25, $50, $75, $100 and $150, is delivered by email, and never expires. It's the right call after the shipping cutoff or when you don't know what they'd carry.
Gift guide FAQ
What's a good OTF knife gift under $50?
The SideKick and FrontKick are both $50 full-size OTFs. The SideKick has a serrated dagger and glass breaker; the FrontKick has a face-mounted switch. For $25, the Wasp and Hornet nanos.
Are OTF knives legal to give as a gift?
It depends on where the recipient lives and carries. Some states and cities restrict automatic knives. Check our state law overview and their local rules first. This is not legal advice.
Which is better for a first OTF, full-size or nano?
Full-size if it's their main cutting tool. Nano if they carry light or already have a main knife.
What if I don't know which knife they'd want?
Get an Uppercut gift card. It's delivered by email in $25 to $150 amounts, never expires, and they choose.