CNC OTF Pen Gen II: Where Everyday Writing Meets Hidden Utility

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By: Joshua Simon

Innovation in everyday carry gear continues to evolve, and sometimes the most practical tools come disguised in the most unexpected forms. The CNC OTF Pen Gen II brings together the usefulness of a reliable writing instrument with the discreet functionality of a compact out-the-front blade, resulting in a tool that blends convenience, versatility, and precision into a sleek package.

Developed by CobraTec Knives, this Generation 2 OTF Pen refines the concept of a dual-purpose everyday carry item. It looks and functions like a premium pen while secretly housing a compact, deployable blade, offering practicality without drawing unwanted attention. It’s a modern solution for those who appreciate functional gear that remains discreet yet ready when needed.

First Impressions and Unboxing

Straight out of the package, the CNC OTF Pen Gen II gives off a premium feel. The pen doesn’t look gimmicky or oversized—it genuinely resembles a sturdy, well-built tactical pen. The machining is clean, the finish is smooth, and the overall weight feels balanced in hand.

Included in the package is the pen itself, ready to use as both a writing instrument and a concealed utility tool. The design keeps things minimal, focusing on durability and practicality rather than flashy presentation.

At first glance, most people would never guess it houses a blade, making it an interesting addition to an EDC setup for users who value subtlety.

Design and Construction

The pen body is crafted from CNC-machined 6061 T6 aviation-grade aluminum, providing a solid yet lightweight feel. This material is known for its strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and durability, making it ideal for gear intended for everyday carry.

The machining adds both strength and visual appeal, giving the pen a rugged but refined aesthetic. Available color options include:

  • Black
  • Grey
  • OD Green
  • Purple

The titanium pocket clip adds durability while allowing smooth attachment to pockets, notebooks, or bags. Its placement also plays a crucial functional role in blade deployment.

Overall, the pen looks stylish enough for office use while being rugged enough for outdoor or utility tasks.

Dual Function Operation

The CNC OTF Pen Gen II is designed around simplicity and efficiency.

For regular writing tasks, users simply twist the barrel to reveal the pen tip, making it function like a standard ink pen. The mechanism feels smooth and reliable, allowing quick transition between stored and writing positions.

The concealed blade is accessed differently. By pushing upward on the titanium pocket clip, the hidden blade deploys forward in a smooth double-action out-the-front motion. This mechanism allows the blade to extend and retract with ease, maintaining safety while offering quick access when necessary.

The system includes a safety mechanism that helps prevent accidental deployment, adding peace of mind during everyday carry.

Blade Performance

Hidden inside the pen is a 1.75-inch stainless steel drop point blade with a stonewashed finish. The blade is not serrated, making it suitable for clean slicing tasks.

While compact, the blade proves useful for common everyday tasks such as:

  • Opening packages
  • Cutting tape or cord
  • Quick utility work
  • Emergency situations

The stonewashed finish helps mask scratches and wear, keeping the blade looking good even after extended use.

This blade is not meant to replace a full-sized knife but instead serves as a discreet and convenient utility option when carrying a traditional knife may not be ideal.

Everyday Carry Appeal

The biggest advantage of the CNC OTF Pen Gen II lies in its discreet nature. Because it appears to be an ordinary pen, it fits naturally into professional environments, travel kits, backpacks, and office settings.

Its 5.875-inch overall length feels comfortable for writing while remaining compact enough for easy carry. The lightweight aluminum construction prevents it from becoming a burden in pockets or gear organizers.

For users who appreciate gear that performs more than one function without adding bulk, this pen offers impressive practicality.

Durability and Reliability

The Gen II version refines durability and reliability over earlier designs. The aluminum housing protects the internal mechanism, while the OTF action operates smoothly with proper care.

The titanium clip resists bending and wear, ensuring long-term usability. Combined with the rugged body construction, the pen feels capable of handling everyday use without issue.

An additional advantage is that all CobraTec knives and tools are supported by a lifetime warranty, reinforcing confidence in the product’s longevity.

Product Specifications

  • Model: CNC OTF Pen Gen II
  • Blade Type: Double Action Out-The-Front (OTF)
  • Blade Length: 1.75 inches
  • Blade Material: Stainless steel
  • Blade Finish: Stonewashed
  • Blade Style: Drop point, non-serrated
  • Overall Length: 5.875 inches
  • Body Material: CNC-machined 6061 T6 aluminum
  • Pocket Clip: Titanium
  • Deployment: Double action via clip activation
  • Writing Mechanism: Twist barrel pen activation
  • Safety: Integrated safety mechanism
  • Colors Available: Black, Grey, OD Green, Purple

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Clever combination of pen and concealed blade
  • Compact and discreet everyday carry design
  • Durable aluminum construction
  • Smooth double-action blade deployment
  • Titanium pocket clip adds strength
  • Practical utility blade for daily tasks
  • Backed by lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Blade length limits heavy-duty cutting tasks
  • May not replace a full-sized knife for some users
  • Requires proper maintenance to keep OTF mechanism smooth

Final Verdict

The CNC OTF Pen Gen II successfully merges practicality and innovation into a tool that fits seamlessly into everyday life. It performs well as a writing instrument while discreetly offering a compact utility blade when needed.

For those who enjoy gear that combines clever engineering with real-world usefulness, this pen stands out as both functional and conversation-worthy. Whether carried in a pocket, backpack, or desk organizer, it provides convenience without drawing attention.

Compact, durable, and versatile, the CNC OTF Pen Gen II makes an excellent addition to any everyday carry collection for users who appreciate smart design and multifunction capability.

For more details, visit their official website:
https://cobratecknives.com/

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