What can you tell me about the Microtech LUDT?

[robicon]

I picked up a ANIB plain edged satin Microtech LUDT with box and papers on another board for $150.

I've not found any reviews online despite searching for the last couple of days. The only think I've found out is that this model is no longer in production and the only available examples are the combo-edged versions.

The date code on the one I picked up was 03/06.

What can the knowledgeable members of bladeforums tell me about this knife? Have there been any reported problems? Is there anything I should be aware of (design faults for example? I've read that a variety of blade steels were used, from 154CM to D2 depending on when the knife was produced--any ideas on what kind of steel was used in mine?

Thanks for any and all help fellas.

ETA: I've got a call in to Microtech to determine what blade steel was used in mine. Looks like I'll have to wait until tomorrow for a reply. It appears they've used 440-"HC", to 154CM, to D2 in these knives depending on manufacture date and nobody (on microholics anyway) is clear when these changes were implemented.

 

[orthogonal1]

I think that year has 440HC blade material. I have one and the blade is unmarked as to steel. Companies tend to note premium materials, so I suspect the 440 steel.

The L-UDT and L-UMS are simple, basic designs that I think are simply great daily users. Good handle and blade shape, reliable mechanism, and good craftsmanship.

BTW - This should have been asked in the auto-forum.

 

[robicon]

I think that year has 440HC blade material. I have one and the blade is unmarked as to steel. Companies tend to note premium materials, so I suspect the 440 steel.

The L-UDT and L-UMS are simple, basic designs that I think are simply great daily users. Good handle and blade shape, reliable mechanism, and good craftsmanship.

BTW - This should have been asked in the auto-forum.

Thanks for the information, that was what I figured. Considering the MSRP of these knives, you'd think microtech would've sprung for a better blade material. Oh well, this one will see hard use.

Correct forum noted. I'll keep that in mind next time.

 

[orthogonal1]

I'm with you on the blade material issue.

Maybe Microtech had a large order for the model spec'ed with the 440HC steel blades and they just went on to make a whole run with the steel.

One benefit of these 440HC models is that it is easier to find plain edged versions. Partial serrations are usable for many "urban" type tasks, but can be an annoyance for "outback" activities.

 

[Wunderbar]

I've done some extensive research on the matter of the late model LUDT's. They only came in D2 steel if the blade is marked D2. Some models, usually the "bent tip" ones, will be marked 420HC. All others that are not marked are 420HC a.k.a. 440-HC. Mike Sweeney (Microtech Knives) claims the D2 is easier to sharpen than their Crucible steels like 154CM and $30V. That I don't know because I have yet to find an LUDT with the D2 steel. Mike also says that the 440-HC/420HC holds an edge as well as 154CM. Not true. At least not on the 3 that I own.
The good thing is that I've found the steel on the LUDT to be very rust resistant and easy to sharpen. Much easier than the $30V on the UMS models. It also has Torx screws in stead of the "in- house" tri-wing screws used on the UMS. Overall it's a fine knife and I congratulate you on your find. I'm anxious to see the next incarnation of the LUDT if Microtech begins production on them again.

 

[robicon]

I've done some extensive research on the matter of the late model LUDT's. They only came in D2 steel if the blade is marked D2. Some models, usually the "bent tip" ones, will be marked 420HC. All others that are not marked are 420HC a.k.a. 440-HC. Mike Sweeney (Microtech Knives) claims the D2 is easier to sharpen than their Crucible steels like 154CM and $30V. That I don't know because I have yet to find an LUDT with the D2 steel. Mike also says that the 440-HC/420HC holds an edge as well as 154CM. Not true. At least not on the 3 that I own.
The good thing is that I've found the steel on the LUDT to be very rust resistant and easy to sharpen. Much easier than the $30V on the UMS models. It also has Torx screws in stead of the "in- house" tri-wing screws used on the UMS. Overall it's a fine knife and I congratulate you on your find. I'm anxious to see the next incarnation of the LUDT if Microtech begins production on them again.

Well, I didn't get a call back from microtech and didn't expect one. I'm 100% sure my blade is one of the 440C models. I'm no snob, but I was certainly hoping for the best. I assume Microtech has caught some hell for using this steel in a folder with a $180 selling price and figured I wouldn't be getting a phone call (if mine was D2 it'd be a different story).

The only decision is to keep it and use it, or put it back up for sale. I'm leaning on keeping it for a edc/general purpose knife.

thanks for the help fellas.