Eoin May Reviews: Schrade Melee Automatic Knife

See how the Schrade Melee Automatic Knife stacks up against our other top picks in the best automatic knife guide.

Last updated: August 17, 2026 · Originally published October 14, 2022

As we continue our journey through Schrade’s  rebrand, I have come upon one knife that that’s the perfect entrée for carrying a knife every day. That doesn’t mean the pros can’t carry it, of course—just that it’s easy to use and has a style that is great for everyday carry (EDC). The knife I am talking about is the Melee Auto Folder from Schrade’s new Alpha line. This new auto from Schrade is an EDC dream. The blade has a tanto style made from S35VN steel, which is one of the strongest steels on the market, with a black stonewashed finish. The blade measures in at a little under 4 inches and weighs in at a little under 4oz. The handle is black textured G10 with a deep carry pocket clip and a lanyard hole. This knife all together would be great for anyone wanting to get into carrying a knife every day. Tanto-style blades are really durable and user friendly. Having a tanto style blade is great for EDC because it gives the point a lot of reinforcement for any task that puts a lot of stress on that area such as prying or stabbing. All around a tanto style makes for a very strong blade. It’s also very versatile, suitable for self-defense or cutting boxes and everything in between. As for the action and handling, the Melee’s handle is very comfortable in my hand—even in my paws, there still is a little bit of handle left, so you guys with the bigger hands will have a little room to play with. It is a push button auto so a newcomer won’t have to learn how to flick the blade open. The knife is made in America and personally I think any newcomer’s first knife should be one that is made in America. All in all, this auto from Schrade is reliable and durable and would be a great knife to put in your rotation. Now it is an auto and in my personal opinion the only set back it has is this knife is priced a little high at a little under $250. Remember that this gets you an American-made product with high-end materials, so if you have that kind of money in your budget, this knife should be at the top of your list. If you like this article or any of my other content go check out my YouTube and Instagram @atoz_reviews, and if you like what you see give me a follow. What new Schrade knife would you like to see next? Lastly, always remember to stay A to Z!  

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