Daniel Defense, in cooperation with Pro-Tech, has prepared a joint version of the Rockeye automatic folding knife. The model is a full-size design intended for everyday use, focusing on fast, one-handed opening and materials capable of withstanding intensive use.
Pro-Tech is an American company specializing in knife manufacturing, operating since 1999. The manufacturer states that it produces its knives in the United States in small batches, using processes including CNC machining and laser cutting, while final fitting and assembly are performed by hand. Founded in 2000, Daniel Defense is best known for its excellent AR-15 rifles and accessories, gaining an almost cult-like status among some enthusiasts. Following other firearms manufacturers, Daniel Defense is adding a knife to its product range aimed primarily at fans of the brand.
The Rockeye itself is not a new design created from scratch for the collaboration with Daniel Defense. The automatic version was designed by American knifemaker Les George, and Pro-Tech had previously produced an automatic variant of the Rockeye. The version developed together with Daniel Defense is therefore another iteration of an existing design.
The blade has a drop point profile and is approximately 86 mm long. This geometry provides a relatively strong tip while retaining a versatile cutting-edge profile. The blade is made from MagnaCut steel. The alloy was developed to combine corrosion resistance, toughness and edge retention. In testing, MagnaCut demonstrated, among other things, very high corrosion resistance and a balance between resistance to edge damage and edge wear. The blade has been finished with a black DLC coating.
Opening is handled by a Button Auto automatic mechanism, activated by a Black Lip Pearl button mounted in the handle. The mechanism allows the knife to be opened quickly with one hand. When the button is pressed, the blade is automatically deployed into the open position and locked, while pressing the button again releases the lock, allowing the blade to be folded in a controlled manner. The handle itself is made from 6061 aluminum and finished in black. It is approximately 127 mm long. The remaining metal components also feature a black finish. The knife is equipped with a standard 3-hole clip and is designed for right-handed users. The Rockeye measures approximately 213 mm when open and weighs around 132 g.
The collaboration between Pro-Tech and Daniel Defense has not resulted in an entirely new design, but rather another variant of the well-known design by Les George. The variant retains the basic principles of the Rockeye Automatic, while receiving a material configuration and finish characteristic of this particular edition.
Photos: Scheels
