The Autonomy knife was specifically designed to meet the rigorous demands of U.S. Coast Guards rescue swimmers. It features a SpyderEdge rescue-style blade that is made from H-1 steel, a special type of steel that is completely resistant to corrosion from saltwater.
One of the unique features of this knife is its automatic opening mechanism, which is powered by a coil spring. This spring is housed within a removable shroud, allowing for easy servicing without having to disassemble the entire knife. The knife also has an oversized firing button that can be easily operated even while wearing gloves or experiencing reduced dexterity due to cold weather. This button passes through the stainless steel handle liners, providing stability and increasing the strength of the blade lock. Additionally, the spring of the button is integrated into the stainless steel liner, creating more tension and preventing any water from getting trapped inside the handle.
The open construction of the knife makes it easy to clean and dry, making it an ideal tool for waterborne rescue operations. It features black G-10 scales, a non-reflective black coating on the blade and hardware, and a secondary safety mechanism to prevent accidental operation of the opening button. The Autonomy knife was recognized for its innovative design and won the prestigious "Most Innovative American Design" award at the 2012 Blade Show.