The Microtech LUDT Vintage 1996 is a highly collectible example from the early years of one of Microtech's most recognizable automatic folding knife platforms. The LUDT traces its roots to the UDT, which Microtech introduced in 1995, making early examples such as this 1996 model especially appealing to collectors interested in Microtech's early production history.
This vintage LUDT features a 3.4-inch blade and a classic black handle, showcasing the straightforward, functional styling of Microtech's early out-the-side automatic folders. Unlike modern LUDT models that commonly use premium steels such as M390, vintage examples were produced with different blade steels depending on the production period. Contemporary collector discussions document early and later LUDT variants using steels including 440HC/420HC and D2, so the exact steel should be identified from the individual blade markings or original documentation rather than assumed.