Top 30 Pocket Knives For New Enthusiasts
In the world of everyday carry essentials, few tools are as versatile and indispensable as the humble pocket knife. Whether you're opening packages, preparing a meal while camping, or handling various tasks in your daily life, a pocket knife can be your reliable companion. But with a plethora of options available, choosing the right one as a newcomer to the realm of pocket knives can be a daunting task. Fear not, for in this guide, we've meticulously curated a list of the top 30 pocket knives, from 10 well known brands, tailored specifically for new enthusiasts. Let's embark on a journey to discover these exceptional tools that will undoubtedly enhance your everyday carry experience.
1. Spyderco: A renowned American knife company with a history rooted in innovation and precision. Founded in 1976 by Sal and Gail Glesser, Spyderco has consistently pushed the envelope in terms of design and functionality.
Spyderco Delica 4: The Delica 4 is a lightweight EDC favorite with a versatile blade and ergonomic handle design, suitable for a wide range of tasks. Perfect for everyday tasks, the Delica 4 is a testament to Spyderco's commitment to creating functional and reliable tools.
Blade Length: 2.87 inches
Steel: VG-10 stainless steel
A signature bi-directional textured handle
Lock Mechanism: Back Lock
Weight: 2.5 ounces
Spyderco Manix 2: With its textured G-10 handle, the Manix 2 is designed for durability and versatility, making it a trusted companion for various cutting tasks.
Blade Length: 3.37 inches
Steel: CPM-S30V stainless steel
Lock Mechanism: Ball Bearing Lock
Weight: 4.9 ounces
Spyderco Para Military 2: The Paramilitary 2 is a favorite among those who demand a robust EDC knife.
Blade Length: 3.42 inches
Steel: S30V stainless steel
A leaf-shaped profile and a full flat grind
Lock Mechanism: Compression Lock
Weight: 3.9 ounces
Renowned for its exceptional ergonomic design and versatile blade.
2. Benchmade: An American knife manufacturer founded in 1988 by Les de Asis. The company is renowned for its precision engineering, exceptional craftsmanship, and innovative designs.
Benchmade Mini Griptilian: Despite its smaller size, the Mini Griptilian is a reliable EDC option suitable for various tasks.
Blade Length: 2.91 inches
Steel: 154CM stainless steel
Lock Mechanism: AXIS Lock
Weight: 2.81 ounces
The Mini Griptilian offers the same quality and features as its larger counterpart but in a more compact form.
Benchmade Bugout 533: An ultralight and dependable EDC knife, a top choice. Despite its minimalistic design, the Bugout offers excellent performance and utility for everyday tasks.
Blade Length: 3.24 inches
Steel: CPM-S30V stainless steel
A handle constructed from Grivory, making it incredibly lightweight
Lock Mechanism: AXIS Lock
Weight: 1.85 ounces
Benchmade 940 Osborne: The Benchmade 940 Osborne is a premium EDC option known for its stylish design and premium materials.
Blade Length: 3.4 inches
Steel: S30V stainless steel
A handle featuring green anodized aluminum scales and stainless steel liners
Lock Mechanism: AXIS Lock
Weight: 2.9 ounces
A favorite among collectors and enthusiasts for its blend of style and functionality.
3. Boker USA: the American division of the renowned Boker Knife company, which has a rich history dating back to 1869 in Solingen, Germany. Boker is celebrated for producing high-quality knives and cutlery, and its American branch continues to uphold this tradition.
Boker Plus Urban Trapper: a sleek and elegant folding knife, showcasing Boker's commitment to quality. The knife's slim profile and lightweight construction make it an ideal choice for urban EDC.
Blade Length: 3.46 inches
Steel: VG-10 stainless steel
The handle is available in various materials, including titanium and carbon fiber, adding to its appeal
Lock Mechanism: Liner Lock
Weight: 1.75 ounces
Boker Kalashnikov: The Kalashnikov series offers various blade styles and handle colors to suit different tastes.
Blade Length: 3.25 inches
Steel: AUS-8 stainless steel
A handle constructed from aluminum with textured inserts for a secure grip.
Lock Mechanism: Push-button automatic
Weight: 3.7 ounces
The Kalashnikov is an automatic knife known for its rugged build and quick deployment, perfect for various tasks.
Boker Kwaiken: The Kwaiken combines style and functionality, making it a popular choice among knife enthusiasts.
Blade Length: 3.54 inches
Steel: VG-10 stainless steel
A handle made from G-10 or carbon fiber
Lock Mechanism: Liner Lock
Weight: 4.38 ounces
Designed by Lucas Burnley, the Kwaiken combines clean lines and modern aesthetics for an elegant EDC option.
4. Buck Knives: a renowned American knife manufacturer with a legacy that spans over a century. Founded in 1902 by Hoyt H. Buck in San Diego, California, the company is known for producing high-quality and reliable knives.
Buck 110 Folding Hunter: A timeless classic.
Blade Length: 3.75 inches
Steel: 420HC stainless steel
A handle constructed from brass bolsters and wood, giving it a traditional look
Lock Mechanism: Back Lock
Weight: 7.2 ounces
The Buck 110 is known for its sturdy build and reliable lockback mechanism, suitable for various outdoor activities.
Buck 112 Ranger: This knife offers a balance between compactness and functionality, making it suitable for everyday carry.
Blade Length: 3 inches
Steel: 420HC stainless steel
Same classic handle as 110
Lock Mechanism: Back Lock
Weight: 5.6 ounces
Similar to the 110 but with a smaller footprint.
Buck 303 Cadet: This knife is a perfect choice for those seeking a traditional pocket knife. Triple blade.
Blade Length: 2.5 inches, 1.75 inches, 1.69 inches
Steel: 420HC stainless steel
A handle constructed from brushed nickel silver bolsters and wood
Lock Mechanism: Back Lock
Weight: 1.9 ounces
The compact and reliable Cadet is perfect for everyday tasks and is a great introduction to the world of pocket knives.
5. Lion Steel: an Italian knife manufacturer known for its commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovative designs. Established in 1969 by the Pauletta family in Maniago, Italy, Lion Steel has become a respected name in the knife industry.
Lion Steel SR22: LionSteel's SR22 is known for its sleek and modern design, combining functionality with aesthetics. It's a versatile EDC knife suitable for various cutting tasks.
Blade Length: 3.54 inches
Steel: Sleipner stainless steel
The handle is commonly crafted from lightweight and durable materials like aluminum or titanium.
Lock Mechanism: Frame Lock
Weight: Varies
Lion Steel TRE: The TRE combines precision engineering with elegant aesthetics.
Blade Length: 3.58 inches
Steel: M390 stainless steel
A handle crafted from various materials, including titanium and carbon fiber
Lock Mechanism: Frame Lock
Weight: 4.41 ounces
The TRE offers exceptional fit and finish, along with top-tier materials, making it a favorite among knife enthusiasts.
Lion Steel Bestman: The Lion Steel Bestman is known for its classic and traditional design, offering an elegant and timeless appearance.
Blade Length: Approximately 2.76 inches (70mm)
Steel: Available in various premium stainless steels, including M390, Sleipner, and others, depending on the model.
Locking Mechanism: Slipjoint
The handle is constructed from a selection of high-quality materials, such as wood (e.g., olive wood, ebony), carbon fiber, or titanium, depending on the specific model.
Weight: Varies
6. Kershaw: a well-established American knife company that has earned a strong reputation for producing a wide range of high-quality folding and fixed-blade knives. Founded in 1974 in Oregon, Kershaw is a subsidiary of Kai USA Ltd., known for its innovation, precision engineering, and excellent value for money.
Kershaw Blur: The Blur is a dependable EDC choice, offering quick and easy one-handed deployment.
Blade Length: 3.4 inches
Steel: Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel
The handle is made from anodized aluminum with Trac-Tec inserts for a secure grip
Lock Mechanism: Liner Lock
Weight: 3.9 ounces
The Blur is lauded for its SpeedSafe assisted opening, ergonomic design, and excellent cutting performance.
Kershaw Leek : The SpeedSafe assisted opening ensures smooth and rapid deployment.
Blade Length: 3 inches
Steel: Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel
A handle made from stainless steel with textured scales
Lock Mechanism: Frame Lock
Weight: 2.4 ounces
The Leek combines a slender profile with stylish aesthetics, making it a popular choice for everyday carry.
Kershaw Dividend: The SpeedSafe assisted opening provides quick and easy access to the blade.
Blade Length: 3 inches
Steel: 420HC stainless steel
A handle constructed from anodized aluminum
Lock Mechanism: Liner Lock
Weight: 2.8 ounces
The Dividend offers a lightweight design, versatile blade, and excellent value for those new to pocket knives.
7. Kizer Knives: a relatively new but rapidly growing Chinese knife manufacturer that has gained recognition for producing high-quality folding and fixed-blade knives. Despite being founded in 2012, Kizer has made a name for itself in the global knife market for its attention to detail, innovative designs, and use of premium materials.
Kizer Knives Sheepdog: The knife is known for its robust and stylish design. It combines a functional cleaver blade with a comfortable and ergonomic handle, making it a popular choice among knife enthusiasts and EDC users.
Blade Length: 3.3 inches
Steel: CPM-S35VN or VG-10 stainless steel
The handle is commonly constructed from durable materials like titanium or G-10, ensuring longevity and stability.
Lock Mechanism: Frame lock mechanism
Weight: 9.15 oz
Kizer Gemini: The knife's smooth action and attention to detail make it a favorite among collectors and users alike.
Blade Length: 3.125 inches
Steel: S35VN stainless steel
A handle constructed from titanium with carbon fiber inlays
Lock Mechanism: Liner Lock
Weight: 3.0 ounces
The Gemini's sleek and ergonomic design, along with top-tier materials, makes it a standout in the Kizer lineup.
Kizer Roach Micarta:The knife is a compact and versatile EDC knife. The Roach offers excellent performance and utility for everyday tasks.
Blade Length: Approximately 3.125 inches
Steel Type: VG-10 stainless steel
Handle Material: G-10 with textured scales
Lock Mechanism: Liner lock
Weight : 7.5 ounces
8. Cold Steel: a well-known American knife and tool company founded in 1980 by Lynn C. Thompson in Ventura, California. The company is renowned for manufacturing high-quality knives, swords, tomahawks, machetes, and other cutting tools.
Cold Steel Recon 1: The Recon 1 is designed for heavy-duty tasks and is favored by those who require a robust folding knife.
Blade Length: 4 inches
Steel: CPM-S35VN stainless steel
The handle is constructed from G-10 for a secure grip.
Lock Mechanism: Tri-Ad Lock
Weight: 5.3 ounces
The Recon 1 is known for its durability and strength, making it a reliable choice for demanding tasks.
Cold Steel American Lawman: The American Lawman is a rugged and dependable option, often chosen by law enforcement professionals.
Blade Length: 3.5 inches
Steel: CTS-XHP stainless steel
A handle constructed from G-10
Lock Mechanism: Tri-Ad Lock
Weight: 4.5 ounces
The Tri-Ad Lock ensures secure and safe operation, making it suitable for demanding situations.
Cold Steel Voyager: The Voyager series includes various blade styles and sizes, making it versatile for different purposes.
Blade Length: Varies (available in multiple sizes)
Steel: AUS-10A stainless steel
The handles are constructed from Grivory or G-10
Lock Mechanism: Tri-Ad Lock
Weight: Varies
The Voyager series offers versatility with various blade styles and sizes, suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks.
9. CRKT (Columbia River Knife and Tool): a well-established American knife company based in Tualatin, Oregon. Founded in 1994 by Rod Bremer, CRKT has built a reputation for producing innovative, functional, and affordable knives and tools through collaborations with renowned custom knife makers and designers.
CRKT Drifter: The Drifter is a budget-friendly folding knife with a clean and functional design. The Drifter is an excellent entry-level option for everyday carry.
Blade Length: 2.875 inches
Steel: 8Cr14MoV stainless steel
The handle is constructed from stainless steel with textured scales.
Lock Mechanism: Liner Lock
Weight: 2.4 ounces
CRKT M16: Known for its unique handle design and various blade options, the M16 series stands out in the CRKT lineup.
Blade Length: Varies (available in multiple sizes)
Steel: AUS-8 stainless steel
The handles incorporate the Carson Flipper for easy one-handed deployment
Lock Mechanism: Liner Lock or Frame Lock
Weight: Varies
CRKT Pilar: The Pilar is a compact and distinctive folding knife that combines style and performance.
Blade Length: 2.4 inches
Steel: 8Cr13MoV stainless steel (modified cleaver shape)
The handle is constructed from stainless steel with textured G-10 scales
Lock Mechanism: Frame Lock
Weight: 4.2 ounces
The Pilar is a compact EDC option with a unique aesthetic appeal.
10. Zero Tolerance: a prestigious American knife brand renowned for manufacturing high-performance, premium-quality folding and fixed-blade knives. Zero Tolerance is a subsidiary of Kai USA Ltd., known for its rugged, high-end knives tailored to the needs of professionals and enthusiasts.
Zero Tolerance 0450: The 0450 is a high-end EDC knife with premium materials and a sleek design.
Blade Length: 3.25 inches
Steel: S35VN stainless steel
A handle made from titanium with a carbon fiber front scale.
Lock Mechanism: Frame Lock
Weight: 2.9 ounces
The frame lock mechanism provides secure blade lockup, and the knife offers a blend of style and performance.
Zero Tolerance 0562: Known for its robust build and smooth action, the 0562 is a favorite among enthusiasts.
Blade Length: 3.5 inches
Steel: CPM-20CV stainless steel
A handle constructed from titanium with textured G-10 overlays
Lock Mechanism: Frame Lock
Weight: 5.5 ounces
The 0562 stands out for its robust build, premium materials, and ball bearing pivot system for effortless deployment and closure.
Zero Tolerance 0350: The SpeedSafe assisted opening provides quick and easy access to the blade. The 0350 is designed for those who require a robust and reliable folding knife.
Blade Length: 3.25 inches
Steel: S30V stainless steel
A textured G-10 handle.
Lock Mechanism: Liner Lock
Weight: 6.2 ounces
The 0350 offers a slightly larger profile, excellent ergonomics, and durability, making it suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
Pocket knives are more than just tools; they are versatile instruments that can simplify your daily tasks and even save the day in unexpected situations. Whether you prioritize functionality, aesthetics, or a combination of both, there's a pocket knife on this list that's bound to resonate with you. Remember, as you delve deeper into the world of pocket knives, it's essential to prioritize safety, responsible use, and adherence to local laws and regulations. With your newfound knowledge, you can confidently choose a pocket knife that not only meets your practical needs but also becomes a cherished companion on life's adventures. So, whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a DIY hobbyist, or simply someone looking for a reliable tool, your ideal pocket knife awaits. May your journeys be well-equipped and your tasks effortlessly conquered with the perfect pocket knife by your side. Happy carrying!