Microtech Ultratech vs Microtech Nemesis: Size, Action, and Collector Appeal

Choosing between the Microtech Ultratech and the Microtech Nemesis IV comes down to size and purpose more than quality. Both are American-made OTF automatics, but they fill different roles.

The Ultratech is the compact, double-action OTF built for daily carry. The Nemesis IV is a larger, single-action piece that many collectors treat as a centerpiece. Below, we compare mechanism, size, blades, materials, and price.

What Sets the Ultratech and Nemesis IV Apart?

The biggest differences are action type and size: the Ultratech is double-action and pocket-sized, while the Nemesis IV is single-action and noticeably larger. Both are OTF knives, so the blade travels straight out the front of the handle instead of pivoting open.

How Do Their OTF Mechanisms Differ?

On a double-action OTF like the Ultratech, one thumb slide both fires the blade out and pulls it back in. On a single-action OTF like the Nemesis IV, which Microtech’s Nemesis IV product page describes as a single-action OTF, the slide fires the blade, and you reset it by hand.

For how the springs and carriage work inside, see our explainer on how double-action OTF knives work.

How Do the Ultratech Gen III and Gen IV Compare with the Nemesis IV?

The Ultratech comes in two current generations. Microtech’s Ultratech Gen III vs Gen IV comparison says the Gen III has a Zero Blade Play (ZBP) system that nearly eliminates blade movement when deployed, while the Gen IV drops ZBP to lower the price, and slight blade movement is possible.

The Nemesis IV is a separate model, not an Ultratech variant. It has its own longer handle and blade and a single-action mechanism.

How Do Size and Carry Compare?

The Ultratech is the smaller, more pocket-friendly knife, while the Nemesis IV is longer in both handle and blade. Both are automatics, so check your local law before carrying either one.

Microtech lists the Ultratech, in both Gen III ZBP and Gen IV standard models, with a 3.55-inch blade, 8.54 inches overall, and a weight of 3.61 ounces, per its Ultratech Gen IV S/E stonewash listing.

Microtech’s Nemesis IV listing lists a 4.4-inch blade and a 5.8-inch handle. Microtech does not list its overall length or weight there, but the longer handle and blade alone put it in a bigger size class than the Ultratech.

Which Model Makes More Sense for Everyday Carry?

For daily carry, the Ultratech is the more practical pick. At 3.61 ounces and 8.54 inches open, it rides in a pocket without much bulk, and the double-action slide lets you close it one-handed.

The Nemesis IV’s longer frame and manual reset make it less convenient for quick, repeated tasks. Many owners carry it occasionally or keep it as a display knife.

What Should You Check on the Handle, Clip, and Glass Breaker?

Microtech’s comparison lists a 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum handle, a reversible machined pocket clip, and a tungsten carbide glass breaker on the Gen III. The Gen IV listing lists Torx screws and an upgraded glass breaker.

The Nemesis IV listing names standard Torx hardware, a pocket clip, and a hardcoat anodized aircraft alloy build. In hand, check clip tension, how evenly the anodizing is applied, and how the glass breaker or pommel is seated.

How Do Blade Options and Materials Compare?

The Ultratech comes in more blade styles and has a published steel spec, while the Nemesis IV lineup centers on double-edge blades with finishes as the main variable. Read the full model name on any listing, since it tells you the generation, edge type, and finish.

Which Blade Shapes Are Offered?

The Ultratech appears in single-edge (S/E), double-edge (D/E) dagger, tanto, and bayonet versions, though which shapes are in stock changes by generation and finish. The Nemesis IV listings on Microtech’s site are double-edge models, including plain and full-serrated versions.

Blade shape changes how a knife works and looks. A single-edge blade gives you a spine to press on for controlled cuts, while a dagger or tanto changes the profile and the look in a collection.

What Should Collectors Verify About Steel and Finishes?

Microtech lists Böhler M390MK steel for the Ultratech Gen III and Gen IV models. The Nemesis IV listings name finishes and treatments, such as stonewash, Apocalyptic, and mirror polish, but they don’t list the blade steel in the specs, so confirm the steel on the specific listing or with the seller before you buy.

Both knives come in stonewash and Microtech’s Apocalyptic finishes. For how common finishes like stonewash hide scratches and reduce glare, see our blade finish guide.

What Accounts for the Price and Collector Appeal?

The Nemesis IV costs far more than an Ultratech, reflecting its larger build and position near the top of Microtech’s OTF lineup. Microtech lists the Nemesis IV double-edge stonewash at $851.

The Ultratech is the easier entry point. Microtech’s comparison puts the Gen IV at a $299 base and the Gen III at $399 and up, and the Gen IV and Gen III models we checked list at $327 and $437. Special Nemesis IV builds run much higher, with mirror polish and Damascus versions listed between about $2,400 and $2,900.

How Does the Nemesis IV Differ from a Marfione Select Version?

The Marfione Select label carries the name of Microtech co-founder and CEO Anthony Marfione. Microtech lists the Nemesis IV double-edge Marfione Select Apocalyptic at $851, the same as the standard stonewash version, and a full-serrated Marfione Select at $877. Compare the finish and edge on each listing rather than assuming the label alone changes the price.

Which Details Matter More Than the Price Tag?

Fit, finish, and action feel matter more than price alone. A higher price reflects size, materials, and finish work, not a guarantee that one knife will suit you better than the other.

Look at machining, anodizing consistency, and how crisply the action fires and locks. Those details can vary slightly from knife to knife, which is one reason it’s worth handling both before you buy.

Choosing a Daily Carrier or a Collection Centerpiece

Pick the Ultratech if you want a compact, double-action OTF for daily carry and a lower entry price into Microtech’s lineup.

Pick the Nemesis IV if you want a larger, single-action showpiece for your collection and occasional carry. Before buying either, confirm current automatic knife laws in your state and city, since OTF knives are regulated differently depending on where you live.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Microtech Nemesis IV bigger than the Ultratech?

Yes. The Nemesis IV has a 4.4-inch blade and a 5.8-inch handle, according to Microtech. The Ultratech has a 3.55-inch blade and measures 8.54 inches overall at 3.61 ounces. That makes the Nemesis IV longer in both blade and handle, and a less natural fit for pocket carry than the Ultratech.

Is the Microtech Nemesis IV single action or double action?

The Nemesis IV is a single-action OTF. Pushing the slide fires the blade out, but you reset the blade by hand. The Ultratech is double-action, so the same slide deploys and retracts the blade. If you want fast one-handed closing for everyday tasks, double action is the more convenient setup.

What is the difference between the Ultratech Gen III and Gen IV?

The Gen III has Microtech’s Zero Blade Play (ZBP) system, which nearly eliminates blade movement when the knife is open. The Gen IV drops ZBP to reach a lower price, so slight blade movement is possible. Microtech lists the same 3.55-inch blade, 8.54-inch overall length, and M390MK steel on both generations.

How much does a Microtech Nemesis IV cost compared to an Ultratech?

The Nemesis IV costs much more. Microtech lists the standard double-edge stonewash Nemesis IV at $851, while the Ultratech Gen IV starts at a $299 base and the Gen III starts at $399. Special Nemesis IV finishes like mirror polish and Damascus list in the thousands. Retailer prices can differ from Microtech’s list prices.

Can I legally carry a Microtech Ultratech or Nemesis IV?

It depends on where you live and carry. Both are automatic OTF knives, so state and local automatic knife laws apply. Some states allow ownership and carry, some limit carry or sales, and others restrict possession. Check your current state statute and any city or county rules before you buy or carry either model.

Come See It In Store

Want to feel the difference between a double-action Ultratech and a single-action Nemesis IV? Sharp Things OKC carries both lines. Shop our Microtech collection and stop by our N May Ave store to fire them side by side. 

Ordering online? Orders placed before 3 pm usually ship the same day.