A few months ago, we reviewed the SOG Aegis, a lightweight folding knife that comes in very handy on hikes, backpacking trips, and around the house.
Now we’ve had a chance to play with two other models designed by SOG – the SOGzilla and the SOG AutoClip. Does the SOGzilla live up to its tough name? What does “AutoClip” really mean?
SOG Knives Put to the Test
These two SOG knives are affordable options for hikers looking for lockback knives that are durable and lightweight. During our testing, we really came to appreciate the customization features of the SOG AutoClip. The AutoClip alleviates two major grievances of knife lovers:
- The AutoClip’s thumb stud makes opening the knife easy! In many knives, the thumb stud used to open the knife is inconveniently located, and those of us with small hands have a tough time opening these knives. The AutoClip’s thumb stud is easily adjustable with a screwdriver.
- The pocket clip can fit on jeans, khakis, hiking pants, etc. Tired of knives that don’t clip onto a favorite pair of jeans? Many guys have complained about this issue… they can’t clip a knife to their hiking pants on the trail and then come home and slip it onto their jeans pocket. The SOG AutoClip has a spring loaded clip that adjusts to the material of the pant pocket. I tend not to clip knives to my pants pocket, but all of my male hiking friends loved this feature!
How about the SOGzilla? Is it tough? Yes! While the SOGzilla is a bit heavier than the AutoClip, it has a very easy to hold grip, a unique blade shape, and sturdy feel. The unique blade design has a hole in the blade (check out the picture!)…this allows for easy one handed opening. Personally, I preferred the SOGzilla to the AutoClip, primarily because I typically keep my knife in my backpack’s hip belt pocket (so I don’t fully appreciate the AutoClip’s features), and I am willing to carry an extra ounce for a knife that has a stronger blade.
Specs – SOG Auto Clip:
- How to Buy: Online at SOG Knives or Amazon.com
- Price: $30.00
- Blade Specs: Overall knife length: 8.25 inches, Blade Length: 3.5 inches, Weight: 3oz., Edge: Straight.
Specs – SOGzilla:
- How to Buy: Online at SOG Knives or Amazon.com
- Price: $43.00 (for the small 7.35 inch blade); prices vary by size.
- Blade Specs: Overall knife length: 7.35 inches, Blade Length: 3.25 inches, Weight: 4oz., Edge: Straight (others in this line have half-serrated blades).
How to decide which one is right for you? If you’re focused on lightweight gear and like to clip your pocket knife inside your pants pocket, then the AutoClip is the right choice. If you don’t mind carrying an extra ounce of weight and appreciate a sturdy look and feel to your pocket knives, then the SOGzilla can be your beast on the trail!
Happy trails!
