DEEP DIVE: VINTAGE VS MODERN MICROTECH HALOS

Microtech Knives changed the game of knife making in the 1990s. Their innovative tactical and practical designs made them stand out from their predecessors. Knife collecting wasn't really appealing to the younger generation when all they had to choose from were Case style folding knives and Boker fixed blades. Models like the SOCOM and the LUDT put high tactical knives into the hands of collectors and early adopters of the modern-day EDC enthusiasts. One of their breakout models that offered a completely unique use case was their HALO model. The Ultratech being a double action Out the Front and the LUDTs & SOCOMs having a more traditional switchblade action, there was something missing between the two. This is where the Nemesis & HALO came into play. These Single Action pieces quickly became a favorite amongst collectors. 

Over the decades the HALO has maintained its classic form factor. Even looking at these two examples that are separated by almost 30 years, it is striking how closely they resemble each other. The only things that have truly changed between the two are the level of finishing as well as the ergonomics of the construction. The HALO II has a more coffin chape to the handle. The bulkiest part is towards the deployment side of the handle and then tapers down into the release for the charging handle. On the HALO IV, the handle has two main sweeping indentations along the spine of the handle for a more substantial hand feel. One interesting distinguishing feature of the design is that on the original HALO II, the charging handle is the same color and finish as the rest of the handle, so they blend together seamlessly. The HALO IV has the charging handle with a raw aluminum look that makes it stand out from the rest of the handle's finish. 

Beyond the look of these knives, there are differences between the two in the feel department. The button on the HALO II has a smooth finish that feels nice when depressed. The spring still feels strong 28 years later. Theres something very satisfying about an old piece of anything with moving parts and mechanical complexity doing what its supposed to do. You get the same feeling with the HALO IV. There is a confidence you can have in Microtech products. I have handled thousands of their products, new and old. If this 1998 HALO II can tell you anything, it's that Microtech Products might just out live you.