A compact and versatile pocket knife is an indispensable tool for various outdoor and daily activities. Its multifaceted uses make it a valuable companion for camping, fishing, and even general household tasks. Whether you need to cut through a rope, slice fruit, or have a reliable backup in the event of an unexpected situation, a well-crafted pocket knife can prove to be a trusty ally.
Despite popular connotations that often link pocket knives to rugged, macho personas, this humble tool is equally suitable for both men and women. It has evolved into a practical self-defense option or everyday carry (EDC) companion that women can comfortably keep in their bags or backpacks.
The 6 Best Pocket Knives
At the top of our list for exceptional knives is the Benchmade Griptilian, a reliable and versatile choice for any situation. However, there are several other options that also stand out in the world of folding pocket knives. The CJRB CUTLERY Feldspar, Spyderco Endura, Kershaw Cryo, Elk Ridge Wood Hunting Gentlemen, and Palmetto Wood Shop Tac Force all offer unique features and benefits that make them worth considering.
Our Top Pick for the Best Pocket Knife
When it comes to the best pocket knives, one model stands out from the rest: the Benchmade Griptilian Knife. Its exceptional performance starts with its razor-sharp blade that maintains its edge over time, thanks to a clever design and high-quality materials. The ambidextrous handle is both sturdy and comfortable, making it easy to maneuver in any situation.
The axis locking mechanism is also noteworthy, providing a smooth and highly responsive action that’s unmatched by many other pocket knives. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsperson or simply looking for a reliable companion to carry with you every day, the Benchmade Griptilian is an excellent choice. Its combination of quality, durability, and value make it a compelling option for anyone in the market for a new pocket knife.
Check out the current price on Amazon if you’re interested in purchasing one.
How To Choose the Best Pocket Knife
Blades Design
When it comes to pocket knives, blades come in a variety of forms and functions. Two of the most common types are the straight-edge (also known as plain-edge) and serrated edge blades. Some pocket knives feature a single, consistent blade type, while others may combine different edges into a single, multi-functional tool. Each type of blade has its unique strengths and weaknesses, making it essential to understand which one suits your needs best.
The straight-edge or plain-edge blade is often the go-to choice for everyday use, thanks to its ease of sharpening. However, when faced with tasks like cutting through thick, fibrous materials like heavy ropes, a serrated edge is generally more effective. For those seeking a versatile blade that can handle various cutting applications, a combination blade – featuring a straight-edge partially serrated design – offers an excellent compromise between the two.
Blade Tips
The two primary types of blades are the clip-point and drop point. The clip-point features a tapered, razor-sharp point that excels at piercing, making it a favorite among hunters and fishermen. This design also provides enhanced control for intricate tasks and navigating tight spaces. However, the fine, narrow tip makes the blade somewhat fragile, rendering it unsuitable for heavy-duty cutting duties to avoid damage.
In contrast, the drop point blade boasts a well-balanced design with a thicker, sharper pointed end that excels at handling demanding cutting tasks. Its utility is particularly evident among hunters who require blades capable of efficiently cutting, skinning, or carving animal hide.
Opening Mechanism
When it comes to opening mechanisms on pocket knives, there are two primary categories: manual and spring-assisted. The majority of pocket knives rely on manual operation, which requires a simple flick of the wrist or the use of a thumb stud or pin. A thumb stud is a small indentation in the handle that allows you to open the knife using your thumb or nail.
In contrast, spring-assisted or automatic pocket knives are ideal for individuals who require rapid access to their blade, such as hunters, wilderness enthusiasts, and survivalists. These knives feature a mechanism that springs into action with minimal pressure or the press of a button, keeping the blade securely in place until it’s time to close the knife.
It’s essential to note that spring-assisted pocket knives share similarities with switchblades, which are illegal in many countries outside the US. Although some US states permit automatic knives, it’s crucial to be aware of the strict regulations governing these types of pocket knives.
Blade Materials
When it comes to crafting blades, manufacturers often turn to strong stainless steel or titanium carbonitride-coated high-carbon steel. Stainless steel blades are the most prevalent option, offering a reliable choice for occasional use and performing well in wet conditions. However, their corrosion resistance may not hold up as well under heavy-duty demands, and their shine can dull relatively quickly compared to high-carbon steel blades.
For outdoor enthusiasts seeking a robust blade, consider the Tru-Sharp surgical stainless steel pocket knife, renowned for its exceptional strength, impressive corrosion resistance, and guaranteed sharpness retention over time. On the other end of the spectrum, titanium high-carbon steel is often regarded as the most durable option, ideal for heavy-duty cutting applications – although it may be prone to rusting and staining.
Blade Size
When it comes to choosing a blade size, the old adage ‘size matters’ holds true. Small blades measuring under 3 inches are perfect for tackling petite cutting tasks, making them an excellent choice for everyday carry or pocket knives. These compact blades not only fit neatly in your pocket but also provide a high level of precision and control.
Medium-sized blades, spanning between 3-4 inches, offer the ultimate versatility and can be utilized for a wide range of cutting applications, particularly excelling in hunting and fishing scenarios where precision and power are crucial.
The Design of the Handle
When handling a knife, the feel of it in your palm is crucial. Whether you’re tackling delicate tasks or heavy-duty cutting projects, look for an ergonomic handle design that provides optimal control. For hunting, fishing, and fine detailed work, anti-slip textures or synthetic handles with a secure grip are essential. These features ensure a comfortable hold, even when working under challenging conditions like rain or extreme temperatures, which can cause sweat.
A strong grip prevents hand slippage, minimizing the risk of serious cuts.
Handle Materials
When it comes to pocket knife handles, materials can vary greatly, including synthetic options, injection-molded fiberglass-reinforced nylon, wood, and stainless steel. Stainless steel, in particular, offers a sturdy foundation for heavy-duty tasks, but its weight may be a drawback for some users. To address this, some designs incorporate holes or cutouts to reduce the overall mass.
In contrast, fiberglass-reinforced nylon and synthetic materials like plastic are remarkably lightweight, making them well-suited for everyday use. However, their lack of heft can hinder performance in demanding cutting applications, where a bit more weight in the handle can provide the necessary pressure. Wood handles, meanwhile, bring a touch of elegance to pocket knives, but may compromise on grip due to their natural slickness.
While suitable for general use, they might not be the best choice for tasks that require extra force or precision.
Locking Mechanism
When it comes to pocket knives, a reliable blade locking system is essential for ensuring user safety. The ability to open, use, and close the knife without compromising safety is crucial, especially when carrying it in your pocket. Most pocket knives employ either liner lock or axis locking mechanisms to prevent accidental opening or closing of the blade. These mechanisms provide a secure hold on the blade once released, allowing for confident handling during heavy-duty cutting tasks.
In addition to its practical applications, a well-designed locking system also serves as a vital safety feature when carrying the knife in your pocket. To ensure maximum security, it’s essential to verify that the knife is securely closed and locked before carrying it. This simple yet crucial step can help prevent accidents and keep you safe.
Belt Clip
While many pocket knives are designed to be lightweight and easily stowed in one’s pocket, some individuals may prefer alternative carry options. A sturdy belt clip is a common feature of most pocket knives, allowing for secure attachment to belts, pockets, or backpacks for swift access when needed. Additionally, some models boast small holes at their termini, permitting the affixment of lanyards for hanging around the neck or attaching to keychains.
If a particular pocket knife does not come equipped with a belt clip, it can still be securely carried in a sheath that may itself be attached to one’s belt.
6 Best Pocket Knives – Reviews
Benchmade Griptilian Knife
The Benchmade Griptilian Knife boasts a robust and dependable design, featuring a razor-sharp, solid plain-edge 3.45-inch blade crafted from high-quality American-made stainless steel. This exceptional blade exhibits well-rounded characteristics, including good edge retention, width, and corrosion resistance.
Its ambidextrous design allows for effortless use by both left- and right-handed individuals, with the injection-molded GFN (Glass Filled Nylon) handle providing an impressive balance of strength and lightness. The handle’s finely textured surface ensures a secure grip, even when wet. The knife’s axis lock and Omega-style springs work in tandem to provide seamless deployment, allowing for swift opening and closure.
With just one press of the thumb studs, the blade locks securely into place, and can be closed with a simple flick of the wrist. The Griptilian’s standard pocket clip ensures the knife remains ready for use at all times. This exceptional EDC (Every Day Carry) knife is available in four stylish colors: black, olive, orange, and sand. Notably, Benchmade offers a lifetime warranty on this product, with detailed information available [here](url).
Overall, the Griptilian’s pros include high quality, excellent value for money, impressive design, razor-sharp blade, secure grip, ambidexterity, corrosion resistance, responsive deployment, and multiple color options. However, some may find the knife to be expensive, not spring-assisted, slightly stiff when opening or closing, and better suited for everyday use rather than heavy-duty applications.
CJRB CUTLERY Feldspar Folding Pocket Knife
When it comes to finding a reliable folding pocket knife for everyday use, whether you’re tackling tasks around the house or venturing out on an adventure, the CJRB CUTLERY Feldspar Folding Pocket Knife stands out as a top choice. This manually operated knife boasts an exceptional cutting profile, ergonomic design, and a high-responsive spring-assisted blade that’s always ready to take on any situation.
The Feldspar is incredibly easy to use, with a smooth one-handed operation that allows you to activate the razor-sharp blade with a simple press of the engraved thumb stud. The liner locking mechanism then securely locks the blade back into position, giving you peace of mind as you work or play. The black G10 fiberglass handle is both strong and water-resistant, with fully contoured scales that fit comfortably in your hand.
Stylish accents include stainless steel components such as the liner lock, thumb stud, and screws, as well as a brass pivot shoulder. The blade itself features a wide, straight-edge, drop-point D2 stonewash steel design that tapers to a fine tip for added control when cutting thick rope, feathering wood, or navigating tight spaces. One of the standout features of the Feldspar is its exceptional edge retention, thanks to its high flat grind.
This means you can trust it to keep its razor-sharpness, even in demanding situations. The durable spine also contributes to its overall toughness, while the blade’s corrosion resistance ensures that it will remain a reliable cutting tool regardless of the weather. As a foldable knife designed for everyday carry, the Feldspar features a convenient reversible clip that fits neatly on your pocket and a large lanyard hole that accommodates paracord or leader cordage.
You can also simply slip it into your pocket for easy storage. Available in three sizes (20.96 cm, small, and large) and four attractive colors (brown, blue, green, and black), the CJRB Feldspar Folding Pocket Knife is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a high-quality cutting tool that delivers on performance and value.
Spyderco Endura Signature Folder Knife
The Spyderco Endura Signature Folder Knife is an exceptional value in a lightweight, high-performance pocket knife. Its innovative design has made it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and knife collectors alike. The 3.75-inch VG-10 high-carbon stainless steel blade features a partially serrated cutting edge, making it capable of effortlessly slicing through heavy-duty rope. The blade’s thick construction and titanium carbonitride coating ensure maximum corrosion resistance and durability.
The mid-position locking mechanism with Boye dent ensures the blade stays securely locked in place, while the razor-sharp edge is ready to perform at a moment’s notice. The knife’s skeletonized stainless steel liner and slimline injection-molded fiberglass-reinforced nylon handle with Bi-Directional Texturing provide an ergonomic grip that fits comfortably in your hand. The Spyderco Endura pocket knife also features the brand’s signature thumbhole, allowing for smooth one-handed opening action.
Additionally, the four-position pocket clip enables versatile attachment options, including belt or breast pocket carry, backpack storage, or lanyard or key ring use. The combination of these features makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and convenient cutting tool.
Kershaw Cryo Pocket Knife
The Kershaw Cryo Pocket Knife is an exceptional multi-purpose tool, offering unparalleled strength, sharpness, and corrosion resistance. Its 2.75-inch titanium-carbo- nitride coated stainless steel straight-edge, drop-point blade makes it suitable for various outdoor activities such as camping, hunting, or fishing, as well as everyday DIY tasks. The ergonomic handle is crafted from sturdy stainless steel, featuring jimping for a secure grip.
This pocket knife’s sleek design provides precision control when feathering sticks, cutting through ropes and leather, or even slicing thick steak while camping in the wilderness. The SpeedSafe assisted system enables swift one-handed deployment of the blade, which then securely locks into place with the frame lock design. To close the knife, simply push the frame to unlock the blade and fold it back into the handle.
This compact pocket knife fits easily into jeans pockets and can be secured with a lanyard hole or pocket clip for quick access. Its pros include high-quality construction, excellent value, sturdy materials, razor-sharp blades, and innovative features like SpeedSafe opening and frame lock design. While some users may find it feels heavy in their pocket, the blade’s screw can also come loose, and it may not be suitable for more demanding tasks.
Elk Ridge Wood Hunting Gentlemen Folding Pocket Knife
The Elk Ridge Wood Hunting Gentlemen Folding Pocket Knife stands out with its elegant design, sharp blade, and innovative spring-assisted opening mechanism. This premium tool is specifically tailored for the discerning outdoors enthusiast who demands both form and function. Whether you’re a skilled small-game hunter or an angler seeking to reel in a big catch, this pocket knife is always ready to deliver with its responsive liner locking system.
The 3mm thick plain edge, drop point blade boasts a robust construction from solid black stainless steel, while the ergonomic handle is crafted from authentic Pakkawood and treated with a rich brown stain that exudes natural charm. To ensure easy accessibility, the sturdy clip allows you to securely attach the knife to your belt loop or slide it into your pocket.
With its impressive pros – superior craftsmanship, sharp blade, excellent drop-point design, responsive mechanism, and compact size – this pocket knife is an exceptional choice for outdoor enthusiasts. However, some users may experience a slight learning curve with the spring-assisted mechanism, which can be stiff out of the box, and the blade’s tendency to lose its edge quickly.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Elk Ridge Wood Hunting Gentlemen Folding Pocket Knife remains an excellent investment for those seeking a reliable and compact companion in their outdoor pursuits.
Palmetto Wood Shop Tac Force Pocket Knife
The Palmetto Wood Shop Tac Force Pocket Knife is an exceptional gift idea for your partner, grandfather, groomsmen, or son who’s joined the Boy Scouts. This premium laser-engraved pocket knife boasts a sturdy 4.5-inch stainless steel clip-point blade that effortlessly flips open with its dual thumb stud. The razor-sharp edge is perfect for various cutting tasks.
The eye-catching Pakkawood handle features a stunning wood grain finish, while up to two lines of personalized text can be engraved directly onto the handle. This makes for a truly unique and thoughtful gift. Please note that both lines of text will be the same size unless you notify Palmetto immediately after ordering, requesting one line to be smaller than the other. The pocket knife comes with a convenient belt clip, ensuring it stays secure while exploring the outdoors.
With its compact design and excellent quality at an affordable price, this gift is sure to impress. The pros of this product include its beautiful design, personalized engraving options, high-quality construction, easy blade operation, authentic Pakkawood handle, and very sharp blade. The belt/pocket clip also makes it easy to carry. While there are some drawbacks to consider – the blade can potentially come loose over time – overall, this pocket knife offers excellent value for its price.
Our Top Pick for the Best Pocket Knife
When it comes to selecting the best pocket knife, our top recommendation is the Benchmade Griptilian Knife. Its exceptional performance is largely due to its razor-sharp blade that maintains its edge over time, a robust and ergonomic ambidextrous handle designed for comfortable grip, and a highly responsive locking mechanism that provides smooth and precise deployment.
The Griptilian’s reputation as a finely tuned cutting instrument stems from its well-balanced design and exceptional build quality. Whether you’re venturing into the wilderness or seeking a dependable everyday carry companion, this superbly crafted knife delivers excellent value for its price point. You can check out the current pricing on Amazon to see why it’s our top pick.
