Tekto makes two big folding knives. One is a flipper, the F3 Charlie. The other automatically deploys, the A3 Delta. I put them head to head!
So I’ve had the A3 Delta for some time now. You can see my first impressions when I unboxed it. Since then it’s become a staple in my carry rotation.
Tekto sent me the F3 Charlie for review! I am excited to do that and compare it against the A3 Delta. So in the above video I unboxed the F3 Charlie and immediately jumped into the comparisons with its automatic counterpart.
If you’re interested in buying the Tekto F3 Charlie click here on this affiliate link. It has a big blade that opens with a flipper tab. But if you want that fast action automatic deployment click here to buy the A3 Delta.
AI Summary
The above comparison video was a little chaotic. Even for me. So I fed it to Google’s Gemini AI to sum it up in a way that’s intelligible for you. Even AI slop is easier to understand than my ramblings. Anyways, here’s the AI generated summary of my comparison video:
Tekto Knives A3 Delta vs. F3 Charlie – Battle of the Forged Carbon
In this detailed first-impression comparison, Jim Kinkade weighs in on a classic debate in the knife community: Automatic vs. Flipper. Featuring two heavy hitters from Tekto Knives—the A3 Delta (Automatic) and the F3 Charlie(Flipper)—Jim explores the nuances of each, specifically focusing on their high-performance forged carbon construction and real-world utility.
The Forged Carbon Experience
Both the A3 Delta and the F3 Charlie featured in this video boast Tekto’s signature forged carbon handles. Jim expresses a deep appreciation for this material, noting that it provides a unique balance of smoothness for pocket carry while remaining remarkably grippy in the hand.
- A3 Delta: While the A3 Delta is a lightweight knife for its size, Jim notes that the automatic spring mechanism gives it a substantial, “serious business” feel. When you press the button, the blade “chunks” open with enough force that you need to maintain a firm grip.
- F3 Charlie: Holding the F3 Charlie was a revelation for Jim. Because it lacks the internal springs of the automatic version, it is “fantastically light.” The mass is concentrated almost entirely in the blade, making it one of the most pocketable large-profile knives Jim has tested.
Automatic Power vs. Flipper Finesse
The comparison highlights the functional differences between these two deployment styles:
- The A3 Delta (Automatic): This is Jim’s long-time favorite for hiking and camping. It features a dedicated safety lock, preventing the blade from firing accidentally in your pocket. The automatic deployment is fast and powerful, making it an excellent one-handed tool for high-stress or vocational environments.
- The F3 Charlie (Flipper): As a manual flipper, the F3 Charlie requires a bit more “velocity” and “acceleration” from the user’s finger to lock open securely. However, because it isn’t classified as an automatic, it bypasses some of the regulatory paperwork and restrictions often associated with “switchblades,” making it a more accessible option for online buyers in various jurisdictions.
Vocational Toughness and Steel Performance
Both knives utilize D2 Steel, which Jim has “tough tested” in the real world of oil fields and mechanical maintenance.
- Edge Retention: Despite admittedly “poor knife maintenance” (including exposure to hydraulic oil and citrus acids), Jim has found that Tekto’s D2 steel holds its edge exceptionally well. It’s a “working man’s steel” that balances durability with ease of use.
- Blade Geometry: The A3 Delta in the video features a partially serrated edge, which Jim finds indispensable for cutting through heavy tie-down straps on flatbeds. The F3 Charlie features a clean drop-point blade with a “modified straight back” profile, offering a deep belly that’s excellent for slicing and culinary tasks in the field.
Design Details and Customization
Jim dives into the small features that make a big difference during everyday carry:
- Lanyards vs. Pocket Clips: In a move that might surprise some, Jim has actually removed the pocket clip from his A3 Delta. He prefers the uninterrupted feel of the forged carbon and uses a Tekto-supplied lanyard to pull the knife from his pocket.
- Window Smashers: The A3 Delta includes a rugged window smasher on the pommel—a “just in case” feature Jim appreciates for emergency vehicle extrication, though he notes it can be a bit “pokey” during standard pocket carry. The F3 Charlie opts for a cleaner, more streamlined pommel without a smasher.
- Weight Savings: The F3 Charlie features a “clear-through” back spacer design and handle cutouts to shed every possible gram of unnecessary weight.
Final Impressions: Which One Wins?
While Jim remains a die-hard fan of the “oomph” provided by the automatic A3 Delta, the sheer weightlessness and “fidget factor” of the F3 Charlie flipper have made it a strong contender for his daily rotation. Whether you’re looking for a “gentleman’s folder” in a larger size or a dedicated hiking companion that won’t weigh down your pack, both of these forged carbon tools represent the high-quality craftsmanship Tekto is known for.
Jim concludes with his signature message of faith and encourages viewers to check out the links for more information on the full Tekto lineup, including their “California legal” out-the-front (OTF) options.
Forged Carbon!
I just read the AI summary and I forgot to mention above that both knives are not only big but they’re forged carbon! Tekto really made good use of the light, tough material on their knives. They got me sold on it. Check it out for yourself.
I also forgot to mention that Tekto sent me a branded lanyard which I put on my A3. You can buy a Tekto lanyard for yourself at this affiliate link too!
Thanks to Tekto for sending me the F3 Charlie for review as well as the lanyard!