Hogue Ballista 1 Review
Published: May 14th, 2025
The Hogue Ballista 1 is a well-engineered automatic knife designed to meet the demands of users who value dependable performance, fast deployment, and thoughtful construction. Built with high-quality materials and refined with Hogue’s attention to detail, this knife is suited for both professional and everyday carry applications.
Durable, Tactical Blade Performance
The 3.5-inch tanto blade offers excellent durability at the tip and solid cutting performance along its flat-ground edge. The partial serrations further increase its utility, making it easy to slice through rope, webbing, or other fibrous materials. It’s crafted from 154CM stainless steel, a time-tested alloy known for its reliable edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. To enhance those qualities, Hogue applies a cryogenic heat treatment, which strengthens the internal grain structure of the steel. The result is a blade with a Rockwell hardness of 57–59 HRC, providing a strong edge that remains manageable to sharpen when needed.
The black Cerakote coating adds a layer of protection against the elements and wear, while also reducing reflectivity. Combined with the tanto shape and the aggressive styling of the blade, the finish gives the Ballista 1 a tactical, no-nonsense look that doesn’t sacrifice performance for appearance. The edge is hand-honed, ensuring a clean, sharp cutting surface right out of the box.
Hogue Ballista 1 Blade
Reliable Deployment and Rugged Construction
Thanks to the knife’s automatic push-button mechanism, deployment is fast and reliable. With just a press, the blade snaps open smoothly and locks in place with authority. A manual safety switch is integrated into the handle, allowing the user to lock the blade in the open or closed position depending on the situation. This added feature helps prevent accidental deployment during carry and provides extra peace of mind during use.
The handle is made from 6061-T6 hard anodized aluminum, finished in matte black and machined with a fluted texture for added grip. The shape of the handle fits the hand well, offering control and comfort whether you’re working with or without gloves. The aluminum construction keeps the knife lightweight at 4.2 ounces, yet durable enough for demanding tasks. The fit and finish are precise, and the inclusion of anodized blue titanium hardware gives the Ballista 1 a distinctive look without going over the top.
Hogue Ballista 1 Handle
At 4.5 inches closed, the Ballista 1 is compact enough to carry daily but still large enough to fill the hand during use. The deep-carry, louvered pocket clip sits low in the pocket, minimizing visibility and maximizing security. It’s also reversible for both right- and left-handed users in a tip-up configuration, making the knife suitable for a wide range of preferences. A lanyard hole at the end of the handle offers another carry or retention option, especially useful in tactical or outdoor settings.
Overall, the Hogue Ballista 1 stands out as a purpose-built automatic knife that combines practical features with high-end materials. It’s fast to deploy, reliable in hand, and built to withstand regular use. Whether used as a daily carry knife, part of a professional kit, or simply appreciated for its quality and function, the Ballista 1 offers a balanced and dependable option in the automatic knife category. It’s a serious tool designed for those who expect consistent performance without compromise.
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Hogue Ballista 1
The Hogue Ballista 1 Auto is a USA-made, out-the-side automatic knife built for performance and reliability. It features a 3.5" tanto blade with partial serrations, made from cryogenically treated 154CM stainless steel with a black Cerakote finish. The push-button deployment with manual safety offers fast, secure operation. Its 6061-T6 aluminum handle is fluted for grip and paired with blue titanium hardware. A reversible deep-carry pocket clip and lanyard hole add versatility. Weighing 4.2 oz and measuring 4.5" closed, the Ballista 1 is compact, durable, and designed for serious everyday and tactical use.