I love automatic knives, aka switchblades, and over time they’ve edged their way into my collection and my EDC rotation. One I’ve had for almost a year now has been one of my favorite companions. This little guy is Gerber’s Mini Covert Auto. It’s one of the smallest switchblades I own, second only to Hogue’s little fella. The Mini Covert Auto is just the baby version of the standard Covert Auto. The Covert Auto is like the M16A4 and the Mini Covert Auto is like one Rex’s Mini ARs with a 4 inch 300 Blackout Upper The look is the same, the ergos are the same, but the size is the big difference.
The Mini Covert Auto has a 2.8-inch blade, with a closed length of only 3.9 inches. It weighs a mere 2.1 ounces and has a total open length of 6.5 inches. It has an MSRP of $192.50 but it retails closer to $110. The Mini Covert is a side opening automatic so the blade swings out the side and has to be manually folded into the handle. The steel is a nice S30V and the blade comes with a fine edge and a serrated edge. My model has a serrated edge.
Satisfying a Niche
When it comes to why this knife exists I can think of plenty of reasons. The small size makes it convenient to carry, especially when it comes to low profile and concealed carry. Knives are typically easy to carry, especially compared to guns, but in some manners of dress, you need to trim as much size as possible. You don’t want to create lines in your suit for example.
For me, I carry the Mini Covert Auto on runs. I go for a jog and the best I can do for a gun is to carry it in what is essentially a cross body fanny pack. It’s not perfect for quick access. However, the Mini Covert disappears into my pal. The handle has a lanyard loop that I loop a piece of cordage through and can wrap around my wrist to make sure I don’t drop it.
For this role its absolutely perfect. I have a weapon in my hand at all times in case something goes south.
The Mini Covert Auto
The blade deploys in a flash. The little blade explodes outward with some real force. The knife has a dagger type blade with one dulled edge. As a side folding blade, it requires a dulled edge to keep you from hurting yourself. The dulled edge has a bit of jimping for your thumb in case you need to make precise cuts. The blade comes from the Applegate-Fairbairn designed fighting knives and sports their signature on the blade.
The controls, in particular, are well thought out and well placed for easy access. The Mini Covert Auto has a small button that deploys the blade and acts as a means to unlock the blade and fold it into the handle. There is also a sliding safety that locks the button. This keeps the knife from being deployed accidentally and keeps it from unlocking and folding when in use.
The handle is small, but easy to grip and there are two inward contours that allow you to rest your thumb and forefinger in a secure location. The pocket clip is nice and low profile, but it’s not reversible.
A Little Stinger
The Mini Covert Auto is an awesome little automatic knife. It’s a small, compact blade that is light and handy. Some real thought went into the design of this little knife. It’s an excellent companion for daily carry. It’s small but fills an excellent niche when it comes to personal protection and EDC.
