Can be.
Chris Fry at MDTS had an interesting FB/YouTube video about waves the other day and how they're not all equal.
His point was that the procedure on how to open a knife with a wave feature can be counter-productive in a "need it right this instant" instance. His argument was that if you have to swipe the knife backwards out of a pocket to get it to work - that may very well be counter to your interests at the time you need it most.
Modern Defensive Training Systems - MDTS | MDTSTraining.com - MDTS
If you do the FB - look him up
I really like the Microtech Ultratechs that I own. Solid, reliable, tough steel (Elmax), feels good in the hand, good grip surface.
But I actually carry a Benchmade Infidel. D2 is good steel, fits my hand better, a bit longer blade. But it has misfired several times. A good flick of the wrist will usually correct this, but I many have to reconsider.
I've been eying a Pro-Tech Godfather. It's a little higher than your price point, but you might want to check it out anyway.
I just bought a ProTeck Godfather from the local sharp pointy cutty things enabler "Brad"
You want one of these. You really do.
Brad, clear your mailbox!Rem Oil is your friend. 95% of the time misfires are due to lack of lubrication. Assuming that there is no contamination inside the knife, the other 5% can't be explained....it's an inherit problem with all OTF designs.
Brad, clear your mailbox!
Cleared