For me, the One-Zero AU Automatic Knife from SOG hits that rare sweet spot where tactical engineering meets minimalist elegance. I’m picky about what I carry daily, and this knife earns its place. It’s not just sleek; it’s smart, reliable, and built to perform without screaming for attention.
SOG One-Zero AU Automatic
I appreciate gear that’s refined but ready, and this one delivers. It’s hard to find a gentleman’s knife that doesn’t compromise on capability. However, the One-Zero AU proves I don’t have to settle.
It’s available in two versions: Silver + Chrome and Black + Chrome. I opted for the elegance of the Silver + Chrome model. SOG also offers a manual opening version.
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Design and Materials
At the heart of the One-Zero AU is a 3.11-inch drop point blade crafted from CPM S35VN stainless steel. S35VN is a premium alloy developed by Crucible Industries specifically for high-performance cutting tools.
This martensitic stainless steel is engineered through the Crucible Particle Metallurgy (CPM) process. It produces a finer, more uniform grain structure than conventional steel-making methods. The result is a blade material that offers an exceptional balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness. Likewise, there is a reduced risk of chipping or fracturing under stress.
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CPM S35VN incorporates vanadium and niobium carbides, which are harder and more wear-resistant than traditional chromium carbides. This further enhances the steel’s durability and cutting performance. The blade undergoes cryogenic heat treatment, a process that refines its molecular structure at sub-zero temperatures, boosting wear resistance and long-term stability.
The blade has a Rockwell hardness of 60–62 HRC. For comparison, most companies temper their CPM S35VN knives to around 58–60 HRC. This higher hardness translates to superior edge retention and better resistance to wear, making it ideal for demanding cutting tasks.
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However, with the increased hardness comes a slight trade-off. The blade may be more prone to chipping under lateral stress or impact. It’s also a bit more difficult to resharpen when the time comes, as the harder steel resists abrasion.
Still, for users who prioritize long-lasting sharpness, this blade offers a compelling performance edge. The blade came razor-sharp out of the box.
The One-Zero is Optimized for Versatility
The blade’s geometry is optimized for versatility, featuring a saber grind that supports both slicing and piercing tasks. Its thicker spine adds structural integrity, and the grind also offers excellent edge retention and durability. The jimping on the spine provides precise control without being too aggressive. Altogether, this makes the One-Zero AU not just a stylish everyday carry, but a serious cutting tool built for demanding use.
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The manufacturer doesn’t officially list the exact bevel angle for the SOG One-Zero AU. However, factory edges on SOG knives often land around 20° per side. This is a sweet spot for most users, balancing sharpness and durability.
Two blade finishes are offered. The Silver + Chrome model features a satin two-tone finish on the blade, paired with a silver aluminum handle. This gives it a clean, polished look that emphasizes elegance.
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Similarly, the Black + Chrome model has a black titanium nitride (TiNi) coated blade with a black aluminum handle and black chrome accents, delivering a more tactical aesthetic. The choice is yours.
Automatic Deployment and Locking Mechanism
The One-Zero AU features SOG’s proprietary XR-AU lock, a major leap in automatic knife technology. This ambidextrous mechanism builds on the proven XR Lock, which withstands up to 1,500 pounds of force, and adds automatic opening for instant blade deployment.
Just pull the lock down to open the blade, then push the lock up to activate the secondary safety. It’s designed to need a bit more force, helping prevent accidental openings without adding extra steps. A red dot provides a visual indicator that the knife is off safe and ready to deploy.
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The knife has a cryogenically heat-treated stainless steel high-torque coil spring that deploys the blade quickly and reliably. Correspondingly, the action is smooth and responsive, with a satisfying snap. The blade pivots on bronze caged ball bearings.
Auto locking secures the blade in place upon opening. The lockup is solid, with zero blade play, reflecting the precision machining and quality control standards upheld by SOG. The blade on the sample knife provided to me was perfectly centered.
SOG One-Zero AU In Hand
The handle is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, hard anodized for enhanced durability and resistance to wear. Its design really sets the knife apart. It features a sculpted, minimalist design with hidden fasteners, contributing to its clean and modern look.
The One-Zero name comes from the knife having zero visible fasteners. The handle has concave grooves for grip and a stainless steel backspacer. All edges are chamfered and rounded. There are no hot spots. The handle length is approximately 4.72 inches, with a thickness of 0.48 inches, offering a comfortable grip for most hands.
Despite its durable build, the knife maintains a lightweight profile at just 3.88 ounces. So, it is ideal for everyday carry without compromising on structural integrity. The handle features ergonomically sculpted contours that promote a secure and comfortable grip, whether performing fine detail work or tackling more demanding cutting tasks.
A deep-carry, loop-over pocket clip constructed from stainless steel ensures discreet placement in the pocket. The clip is flat-wire in design and mounted in a tip-up configuration for quick deployment. Engineered for ambidextrous use, it’s reversible to accommodate both right- and left-handed users. The clip offers reliable retention, keeping the knife securely anchored during movement or activity.
A Gentleman’s Automatic Knife
Many automatic knives lean heavily into aggressive, tactical styling. However, the One-Zero AU distinguishes itself with a design that is both refined and understated. The finish, clean lines, and minimalist branding make it suitable for professional environments, formal occasions, or as part of a curated everyday carry ensemble. It’s a knife that complements a tailored suit as effortlessly as it does a pair of tactical pants.
This balance of elegance and utility is what earns the One-Zero AU its reputation as a gentleman’s automatic knife. It offers the convenience and speed of an automatic opener without the overtly militaristic appearance often associated with tactical blades. If you appreciate fine American craftsmanship and subtle sophistication, this knife delivers a compelling blend of form and function.
Personalization Your One-Zero
SOG offers custom engraving on the One-Zero AU. So, you can personalize your knife with up to two lines of text near the blade’s base. Available fonts include Arial, Times, Black Chancery, and Phoenix Script. This gives you the ability to tailor the knife’s appearance to your personal preferences.
All engraved products remain covered under SOG’s limited lifetime warranty.
Testing the One-Zero AU
I have been carrying the knife daily and have used it for a wide variety of tasks, many of which would quickly dull a lesser blade. As a result, I have been astonished by how well the knife holds its edge. It has held its edge better than most of my other knives with CPM S35VN blades, all from highly-regarded makers.
I have used and tested the knife for a wide range of cutting tasks, including, but not limited to, a variety of cordage and rope, corrugated cardboard boxes, thick nylon webbing, and even 5/8-inch commercial-grade polyethylene drip irrigation distribution tubing.
The latter is especially tough on an edge and serves as a solid test of edge retention and blade geometry. The knife has performed like a champ.
Cutting to the Point
The SOG One-Zero AU Automatic Knife is a benchmark in knife design, seamlessly blending rugged functionality with refined style. With its premium materials, advanced locking mechanism, and thoughtful ergonomics, it offers a compelling package that provides both style and substance.
Whether you’re navigating the demands of daily life, attending a formal event, or simply appreciating the finer things in your gear collection, the One-Zero AU delivers a level of refinement rarely seen in automatic knives. It’s not just a tool. It’s a statement of taste, precision, and preparedness. All made in the USA.
SOG One-Zero AU Specs
| Blade Length | 3.11 inches |
| Overall Length | 7.83 inches |
| Closed Length | 4.72 inches |
| Blade Thickness | 0.10 inches |
| Blade Grind | Saber |
| Blade Material | CRYO CPM S35VN stainless steel |
| Blade Hardness | 60-62 HRC |
| Blade Finish Options | Two-tone satin or black TiNi |
| Handle Material | Hard anodized aluminum |
| Weight | 3.88 ounces |
| Lock Type | XR-AU automatic lock |
| Opening Mechanism | Push-button automatic |
| Pocket Clip | Deep carry stainless steel (tip-up, right/left carry) |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime |
| MSRP | $299.99 |
