SOG Zoom Perfection by Nutnfancy

Published on March 2, 2014
Duration: 20:12

This review focuses on the SOG Zoom series of folding knives, specifically the full-size and mini variants. The reviewer, Nutnfancy, highlights their pseudo-automatic action, excellent build quality, and versatility for EDC and tactical applications. He praises the O8 steel, the ergonomic handle design, and the effective safety mechanism, while also comparing them to more expensive automatic knives.

Quick Summary

The SOG Zoom series knives are highly recommended for their pseudo-automatic action, providing the speed of an automatic blade with enhanced legality. Featuring O8 steel, robust aluminum handles, and an excellent safety mechanism, these knives offer exceptional value and performance for everyday carry and tactical applications.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction to SOG Zoom Series
  2. 00:43Overall Rating and Recommendation
  3. 01:25Knife Sizes: Mini and Full-Size
  4. 02:50Philosophy of Use: Pseudo-Auto
  5. 03:13Comparison to SOG Tac Auto
  6. 04:19EDC and Tactical Applications
  7. 05:02Full-Size Zoom Specs
  8. 05:17Mini Zoom Specs & EDC Preference
  9. 05:43Handle Feel and Construction
  10. 06:07Blade Steel: O8 Cryogenically Treated
  11. 06:22Blade Shape Analysis
  12. 06:47Out-of-Box Sharpness & Resharpening
  13. 07:46Blade Tip Precision
  14. 08:16Deployment Speed
  15. 08:38Lockup Assessment
  16. 08:52Washer System
  17. 09:15Mini Zoom Deployment
  18. 09:31Thumb Studs
  19. 09:45Safety Mechanism Review
  20. 11:08Handle Construction Details
  21. 12:23Blade Centering
  22. 12:41Ergonomics and Thumb Ramp
  23. 13:21Pocket Clip Design
  24. 13:46Durability and Steel Wear
  25. 14:39Pricing: Full-Size and Mini
  26. 14:51Price Comparison to Autos
  27. 15:01Competitive Option: Protek TR3
  28. 16:29Competitive Option: Microtech
  29. 17:29Competitive Option: Spyderco Citadel
  30. 18:20Competitive Option: Kershaw 1870 Knockout
  31. 19:17Final Thoughts on SOG Zoom Series

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the SOG Zoom series knives stand out?

The SOG Zoom series knives are highly praised for their pseudo-automatic action, offering the speed of an automatic blade while remaining legal in more areas. They feature excellent build quality, O8 steel, effective safety mechanisms, and great ergonomics, making them ideal for EDC and tactical use.

What are the key specifications of the SOG Zoom full-size knife?

The full-size SOG Zoom knife measures 8.3 inches overall with a 3.5-inch blade and weighs approximately 4.4 ounces. It features a 6061 T6 aluminum handle and cryogenically treated O8 steel blade.

How does the SOG Zoom series compare in price to automatic knives?

The SOG Zoom series knives are significantly more affordable than true automatic knives. The full-size model costs around $70 and the mini around $65, which is about one-third to one-half the price of comparable automatic blades.

What is the reviewer's opinion on the SOG Zoom's safety mechanism?

The reviewer considers the safety mechanism on the SOG Zoom series to be the best he has ever seen on a SOG folding knife. It is unobtrusive, stiff enough to prevent accidental deployment, and provides peace of mind for pocket carry.

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