Bear OPS AC-300: Is Auto Right For You?

By Todd Burgreen

There are certain sounds that illicit guttural responses. Examples of this consist of racking a pump-action shotgun, cocking a revolver, working the slide on a 1911 or chambering a round in an AK-47. Something else in this category is the opening of an automatic knife.

One of my favorite automatic knife suppliers is Bear OPS. Bear OPS is a division of Bear & Son Cutlery based in Alabama. Bear OPS was launched in 2011 to focus on tactical and survival knives made here in the United States. Their entire manufacturing operation is self-contained in terms of both material and personnel, giving Bear OPS ultimate quality control over their U.S.-made products. Bear OPS makes sure the extra steps of hand refinements and inspections are performed before a knife ships out.

Bold Actions?

The Bear OPS Bold Action AC-300 features a lightning fast-opening 3.25″ Sandvik 14C28N stainless stiletto-pattern blade. Black aluminum surrounds the blade, spring and locking mechanism. Weight is a mere 4.3 oz. A safety lock and pocket clip finishes the package.

The AC-300’s stiletto-like blade is ideal for thrusting/piercing. However, the AC-300 can still serve as a utilitarian folder thanks to its razor-sharp edge. Sandvik 14C28N is popular with some knife collectors as the steel resists blade micro-chipping and dulling of the edge yet is easily sharpened. This steel is favored for folding knives because its 55-62 HRC hardness is ideal for multiple types of blade applications. A high corrosion resistance also lends itself to everyday pocket carry.

With all the talk about utilitarian pocket chores, don’t forget the intent of a stiletto/dagger profile blade like the Bear OPS AC-300 — self-defense. The knife combines a sharp stabbing point with a razor-sharp blade. The Bear OPS AC300’s blade design maximizes damage as it penetrates, forcing apart the medium being pierced. This allows the knife to perform effectively even through heavy clothing. With this said, the slashing/cutting abilities of the AC300’s blade should not be dismissed.

The Draw

The Bear OPS AC-300’s automatic function “sexiness” will appeal to many on its own. And if you live in a location where this type of knife is legal, who doesn’t like deploying cold steel in a flash with a push of a button? However, the Bear OPS AC300 stands on its own merits even if it weren’t an automatic. It offers real substance in terms of deployment and use. The AC-300 is potent, with a stiletto like blade capable of slashing if needed, while maintaining good blade length for fight-stopping thrusting power.

During weeks of handling between my son and myself, the Bear OPS AC-300 was opened/closed literally hundreds of times. No issues were encountered, with the blade staying true and plumb with no adjustments needed — rather impressive for a 3.25″ blade being forcefully presented. Every opportunity to slice meat or plunge blade into a ham or roast was taken. Scientific? No. However, this gives a feel for a blade being used. More mundane tasks such as rope cutting, opening boxes and so on were also performed. Every effort was made to carry and deploy the Bear OPS AC300 as much as possible.

Bear OPS AC-300 Specifications

Blade Material	Sandvik 14C28N Stainless Steel
Handle Material	Aluminum
Open Length	7¾”
Closed Length	4½”
Blade Length	3¼”
Weight	4.3 oz.
MSRP	$154.99

Conclusion

The Bear OPS AC300 is a valid option for whatever use the end user desires, whether for defense or simply whittling a stick. And if you live in a location where “automatic knives” are legal, the Bear OPS AC-300 will be ready in a flash to perform whenever it is called upon.

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Bear OPS Bold Action AC-300