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Heretic Knives
Published: December 18th, 2024
Heretic Knives embodies innovation, quality, and a generational passion for crafting exceptional blades. Founded by Anthony Marfione Jr., the company grew from a rich legacy of knife-making established by his father, Anthony Marfione Sr., the founder of Microtech Knives. While Heretic Knives has successfully carved out its own space in the industry, its roots remain deeply connected to the Marfione family’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what a knife can achieve.
Anthony Jr.'s journey into knife-making started early. Growing up in a family that lived and breathed blades, he and his brother Sean were immersed in the craft from childhood. The Marfione boys mimicked their father’s work, turning bicycles upside down to simulate grinding blades and crafting makeshift “knives” from wood. These formative years not only instilled a deep appreciation for hard work but also set the stage for their future endeavors.
By the time Anthony Jr. officially joined the family business at Microtech, he had already developed a strong foundation. From making boxes to assembling lanyards, he was involved in every aspect of production. This hands-on experience allowed him to learn the intricacies of knife manufacturing and the challenges of maintaining quality and innovation in an ever-competitive market.
In 2015, Anthony Jr. decided to strike out on his own, founding Heretic Knives. While it was a bold move, it wasn’t without challenges. Launching a knife company in an industry dominated by established names meant Heretic had to offer something distinctive. Drawing from his years at Microtech and his own vision, Anthony Jr. set out to create knives that combined cutting-edge technology with a personal touch.
Heretic Knives quickly gained recognition for its innovative designs and commitment to quality. The company’s focus on automatics and out-the-front (OTF) knives placed it in direct competition with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Microtech. However, this competition was fueled by mutual respect and familial camaraderie rather than rivalry.
- Heretic Knives was founded by Anthony Marfione Jr. (pictured above)
- Heretic Knives was founded in 2015
Heretic Knives stands out for its dedication to producing unique, high-performance knives. The company prides itself on maintaining U.S.-based production, with all of its components manufactured in-house or sourced domestically. This commitment not only supports local industry but also ensures the quality and consistency that Heretic’s customers have come to expect.
One of Heretic’s defining philosophies is the belief in continuous improvement. Anthony Jr. emphasizes the importance of hands-on mentorship, both in sharpening blades to perfection and in cultivating a team capable of maintaining the brand’s high standards. The company has also begun expanding beyond automatic knives, with recent ventures into manual folders, slip joints, and other styles to broaden its appeal.
Heretic Nyx OTF
In the words of Anthony Jr., “We’re always going to be making OTFs and automatics, that’s our DNA, but we’re also exploring new territory. The key is staying true to who we are while continuing to evolve.” With a foundation rooted in family, hard work, and a passion for knives, Heretic Knives is poised to continue making an impact for generations to come.
Written by Drew Clifton
What to Buy
The Heretic Pariah Manual delivers robust performance for everyday carry and demanding tasks. Featuring a 3.75-inch CPM Magnacut drop point blade with a black DLC coating, it offers exceptional toughness, wear resistance, and cutting efficiency. The gray aluminum handle with black traction inlays ensures a secure grip, while the button lock mechanism provides reliable, confident operation. With its thumb hole for quick manual deployment, the Pariah combines smooth action with precise control. Measuring 8.875 inches open and 5.125 inches closed, it balances portability and functionality. Weighing 5.57 ounces and equipped with a tip-up pocket clip, this knife is discreet, durable, and ready for any challenge.
The Heretic Manticore S is a USA-made out-the-front automatic knife crafted with precision and reliability. Featuring a 2.62" CPM MagnaCut stainless steel Bowie blade, it excels in edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance, complemented by a stonewash finish for durability. Its thumb slide mechanism ensures fast, one-handed deployment and secure locking, while the lightweight aluminum handle with Grenade Grip texture offers exceptional control in all conditions. Compact at 3.96" closed, the Manticore S includes a stainless steel pocket clip for convenient carry and a hardened steel glass breaker for emergencies, making it a versatile tool for tactical use, everyday carry, or critical situations.
The Heretic Manticore X offers exceptional performance with a 3.7" CPM Magnacut Tanto blade featuring a tough black DLC coating for superior edge retention and corrosion resistance. The dual-action OTF automatic mechanism ensures smooth, fast deployment, while the Grenade Grip red aluminum chassis provides enhanced control in any condition. Lightweight yet durable at 4.5 ounces, it includes a hardened steel glass breaker, integrated lanyard hole, and deep carry clip for discreet, versatile carry. At 5.5" closed and 9.25" overall, this knife is perfect for tactical use, daily carry, and emergency situations.
Expert Reviewed
T.C. Barnette
T.C. Barnette is a dynamic media personality and the esteemed spokesperson for SMKW (Smoky Mountain Knife Works), where his passion for knives intersects with his captivating on-screen presence. With a magnetic charisma and deep expertise in cutlery, T.C. has become a beloved figure in the knife community.