If you got here by typing something like “best EDC knife” into Google, you probably already have a little history with knives. Likely, you already have at least some indication of what you do and do not like in a knife, owning at least a few yourself already. But chances are, you are also looking to see what others think on the topic of the best EDC knife as well. In all probability, you’re looking to see:
- What production knives are the most popular,
- What other knife users would recommend, and
- If you’ve missed noticing any knives you really would’ve liked if you only known about them to begin with.
Well if that’s why you’re here, you’re in luck. We’re here to remedy all three of these problems in this one (admittedly quite long) article!
Frankly, I’ve seen so many spammy articles on the “Best Everyday Carry Knife”/”Best Pocket Knife” topic around the net that I thought I’d throw my own experience into the mix to set the story straight at least a little.
While I haven’t reviewed every single item on this list, I have reviewed the vast majority of these knives. And unlike those spammy sites where the author just regurgitates Amazon reviews into one copy written review piece that they publish on their blog, I’ve actually handled each and every one of the knives I’ve reviewed on More Than Just Surviving (and have the original photography taken by Elise to prove it).
Not trying to toot my own horn here – realistically, I’m just trying to get you to think about where you’re getting your information from. We’re certainly not the only ones on the net to use every knife we review before we write up a review, and there actually are plenty of great EDC/general knife reviewers & sites out there that do some kickass knife reviews. Just want you to think about where you’re getting your advice from, as there are knife people, and then there are niche site creators just trying to earn a quick buck from an industry they know very little to nothing about.
My recommendation: get your knife advice from boss knife guys like,
- Tony from Everyday Commentary,
- Stefan from his Stefan Schmalhaus YouTube Channel,
- Jeff from the Cutlery Lover YouTube Channel,
- & (my personal favourite) Cliff from CliffStamp.com, instead.
Hell, as much bad rap as Nutnfancy gets at times for some of the things he says on his YouTube Channel (politics mostly) – at least no one could ever deny the fact he uses each and every product he makes a review about. He’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but he’s at least genuinely reviewing. Nutnfancy does his best to test each product he uses well enough to give you his own informed opinion – you absolutely have to give him that.
Now, before you start looking through this massive list (sorted into categories so it’s much easier to browse – if you’d prefer an article that sorts the best EDC knives by price point, take a look at our best bang-for-buck folders article), I’d like you to first get it into your head that the best everyday carry knife on the market will be different for each and every person. Don’t think that because the knives on this list are deemed some of the best in the market that you’ll find the very best one for you on this list.
Yes, if a knife is popular enough and highly recommended by other knife users, it does typically indicate that knife is probably going to at least strike your fancy as well – after all there’s typically very good reason that a knife is a hit, especially when it comes to a market as saturated with new and high-quality products as the knife market. If there’s a hit it’s usually a hit for good reason (I say and mean usually; some knives truly do not deserve the praise they get – but that’s pretty rare).
Finding what works best for you is no minor feat. It’s not an exact science either – sometimes knives that look great on paper just don’t feel right in the hand, which is why we’ve not only taken the time to make this list, but to direct you to the product reviews we’ve written up on the individual knives as well. That way, in case you’d like to take a look at some in-hand shots or figure out what there is to like and dislike about a knife before you make a purchase – you can do that. There are some knives that I really recommend trying in person before you buy, like the Manix 2 FRN for instance. Others – well really the majority of knives – you can get away with watching a video or reading a review to learn about how they feel and that’s typically enough to let you know how they’ll be for you in person.
The Single Best EDC Knife
Now before I start breaking things down, in case you’re new to the knife world, I did want to let you in on a well-known fact within the knife community. There’s one everyday carry knife that pretty much has remained consistently at the very top of the list for so many knife users from the date it first came to production until now.
This knife is almost always sold out. It could be in stock one day and gone completely off Amazon the next. And it’s not even a new knife. In fact, the knife was released way back in July of 2010, and it’s still so incredibly popular that it can be really difficult to snag.
What is this knife?
I’m sure you seasoned knife guys reading this already guessed at even seeing the “single best EDC knife” title. There was absolutely no surprise here for you.
Time for the explanation. Why’s this thing always at the top of the “best EDC” list? Well for starters, it’s pretty much the single most inoffensive technically tactical option currently available on the market (in my opinion). Does it look like a tactical EDC? Not really, no. Could it be used as such? Hell yes! It’s one of the stabbiest knives on the market that still happens to be an everyday carry option. It punches way above its class – both in terms of price and in terms of the fact that it’s supposedly a mere EDC knife. Everything about its design and construction is geared towards being above average with no real points of failure. It’s tough, but not a beater; it’s a good cutter, but not a light-saber; it’s not expensive, nor is it a cheap knife – I could go on for days, but you get the idea. It’s just a great all-round, all-purpose knife. Arguably better than any other knife on the market for this (not just by me – by everyone; just check the forums if you’re unconvinced).
In the cutlery industry, manufacturers tend to have to cater to a specific demographic in order to stand out. Spyderco, with the Para-military 2, opted for producing something that is truly mainstream in the purist of ways – no catering to “I want a super ninja folding pry bar milspec warrior soldier knife!”
Remember how I said that just because there seems to be universal consensus and love for a specific knife, and that on paper it could be absolutely perfect, but it just doesn’t work out or happen to be the right knife for you? If you have read my review on the Para-military 2, you will likely have remembered the fact that I clearly state this is definitely not my favourite knife. I’m not in love with the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 like so many are, and yet I really do have to firmly recommend it as the best EDC option. It’s just not for me (not getting into details here as if you’re interested, you can always take a glance over the review!).
As someone who owns literally hundreds of EDC knives, I can think of many knives that I do love and yet cannot possibly recommend on a list of the best EDC knives (the Kershaw Blur and the Buck 110 to name a few). These are knives that, while I do adore them for what they are, have inherent compromises or flaws that force me to remove them off any “best EDC knife” pedestal.
So there you have it, if you want an EDC knife that can do more or less everything at an acceptable (average – not too pricey not overly cheap) price with no real flaws to speak of, I give you the Spyderco Para-Military 2.
Now take a look at the best EDC knives by category, starting with the absolute best EDC knives across the board.
Best Across the Board EDC Knives
1. Spyderco Paramilitary 2
It’s the easiest recommendation by far. Nothing I can say about it hasn’t been said already – reliable and a little something for everyone with no real flaws to speak of.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Spyderco Paramilitary 2
2. Case Swayback Gent
My only true gentleman folder; puts a smile on my face. Even though in terms of sheer performance it’s not exactly optimal, I just can’t help but recommend it. It rocks.
Read our review of the Case Sway Back Gent
3. Kershaw / Emerson CQC-6K
Inexpensive & sturdy with a very nice steel framelock & flat head adjustable pivot, all with a relatively stout blade. I loved it when I reviewed it, and I don’t see my opinion changing anytime soon!
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Kershaw Emerson CQC-6K
4. Cold Steel Recon 1
There’s something to be said about having a gargantuan super tough folder, and now with upgraded American CTS-XHP steel, there really is no reason not to pick one up.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Cold Steel Recon 1
5. Kershaw Chill
Cuts far beyond its price class, super simple in all the right ways its definitely one of my favourite options for slipping into my pockets.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Kershaw Chill
Best Budget EDC Knives
1. Buck Vantage Select Large
This might surprise some of you, but in hindsight it’s a pretty obvious choice. Whilst it’s not the sexiest knife around, bang for buck the Vantage Select Large is pretty incredible. USA-made with a great utilitarian blade (with shockingly good grinds) and one of the best pocket clips on any knife. It’s a clear winner with all things considered.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Buck Vantage Pro
2. Schrade SCH304
I resisted this knife for many years, but after a while, all of you guys telling me to pick one up wore me down. I cracked, and you know what? You were right, I was wrong. This is a fantastic beastly folder/folding boat anchor that is well made with above average ergonomics (and weight) with a build quality that is remarkable for its price point.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Schrade SCH304
3. Victorinox Alox Pioneer
By far my favourite SAK. Elise is not a fan of them, but I feel I *had* to include one in this top list. If you like small, utilitarian folders without any of the modern features like locks or one-hand opening, then this is a solid option. Some of you just outright dislike them, and that’s fine too. Very divisive, but never forgotten.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
3 options not enough? Want to see a lot more options in the budget everyday carry knives category?
> View more budget pocket knife recommendations.
Best Bushcraft/Outdoor EDC Knives
1. Enzo Birk 75
Enzo has been around for quite a few years now. Very scandinavian in both origin and design, excellent performer in the field in terms of bushcraft tasks, and all for a very reasonable price point. Never reached mainstream adoption in the States though, and I think that’s a damned shame. The spartan lines of Enzo knives are very distinct, and with the premium materials used, I am sure you would get quite a few appreciative questions directed at it.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
2. Cold Steel Finn Wolf
Hands down my favourite knife from 2015. Unbelievable performance, balance, weight and price point. I can’t say much more about it without sounding like (even more of) a fanboy.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Cold Steel Finn Wolf
3. Helle Skala
I reckon out of all the knives on this list, this Helle probably has the best in hand feel. Sculpted wood handles with generous proportions and no tactical scoops or scallops, this is a traditional, all business work-knife, and performs as such.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
4. Spyderco Nilakka
Never owned it, but I have handled it in the past. My hesitation towards a CPM S30V blade that’s ground to a zero edge with no relief bezel did put me off somewhat. Early reviews had mentions of chipping, but when it comes to sheer cutting performance (especially for soft wood), can it be beat? I doubt it. When I finally snag this knife up (price is a little high for me) I will convex the edge and really see how deep this little sucker bites – I have a feeling it will exceed all expectations.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
5. Opinel No. 10
Out of all the bigger brother Opinels, I think the No. 10 offers the most cutting performance relative to cost. It’s a surprisingly large knife, which I think many people don’t expect. I recently bought two Opinel No. 9‘s (got a great price on them) and was surprised at the difference in hand when compared to the 8. We are talking a substantial increase and for the money I think Opinels are the best outdoor performing folders around. Sadly, the usual caveats of being careful around water (wood swells with moisture) apply. Makes me wish Cold Steel still made the ringmaster.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Best Lightweight EDC Knives
If you’re interested in seeing more lightweight knife recommendations than are listed in this section, take a look at our article on the best lightweight folding knives for hikers.
1. CRKT Ripple
Much like the Spyderco Military, it’s a nested liner which aids with weight reduction. Couple that with extensive skeletonization and you have what is (imo) the king of the featherweights. IKBS flipper deployment too!
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the CRKT Ripple
2. Spyderco Delica 4
One of my favourite EDCs (maybe even the favourite). It’s one hell of a folder with a featherweight impact in your pocket.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Spyderco Delica 4
3. Spyderco Military
I know this will get a few raised eyebrows as it’s a 4 inch tactical folder, but with its nested liner lock & G-10 construction, it really punches above its weight taking into account how much cutting power is packed in.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Spyderco Military
Interested in seeing more lightweight folding knife options than the 3 listed here?
> View more lightweight pocket knife recommendations.
Best Heavy-Duty Beater EDC Knives
1. Cold Steel Recon 1
In my opinion Cold Steel makes the toughest folders around. Yes, they have goofy marketing gimmicks, but if you ignore Lynn Thompson’s antics I think you will find they are quite excellent, especially taking into account the price!
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Cold Steel Recon 1
2. Benchmade Adamas
Ridiculously overbuilt in every way possible including weight. It’s literally a boat anchor that could be used to pry or chop pretty much anything without fearing that the blade or the lock would fail.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Benchmade Adamas
3. Cold Steel Pocket Bushman
Clunkly lock, questionable ergonomics, but it’s a veritable folding fixed blade. I own it (review coming) and I am beyond impressed with its toughness.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
4. Kershaw Volt
One of the toughest knives for the money that you can buy. It’s like an inexpensive tactical beater with a very stout blade and strong stainless steel framelock. And an R.J. Martin Design to boot!
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Kershaw Volt
5. Ontario RAT 1
A stalwart of the best bang for buck arena, it’s a solid well made knife with a tough full flat ground blade and well implemented stainless steel liner lock.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Ontario RAT-1
Best Tactical EDC Knives
1. CRKT Hissatsu
Aesthetically, it’s my favourite, which makes me more than a little biased, but its neutral handle, great penetration, & aggressive tanto design means I feel quite happy should I need to carry this for defensive purposes.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the CRKT Hissatsu
2. Kershaw Leek
This may be a surprise, but if I had to pick one knife I didn’t want to be stabbed with, it’s this one. It’s a needlepoint. Literally. If you drop this, there’s is a good chance it will go through your foot.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Kershaw Leek
3. CRKT Homefront
Probably one of the best looking models new out in 2017. Very unique mechanism (screwless deconstruction) with a beautiful wide blade and great flipper action.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
4. Spyderco Civilian
I have handled it and it (honestly) scared me. Was literally designed from the ground up to rip, tear, and cut people to pieces. I don’t think I need to add anything more to that description.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
5. Spyderco Matriarch
For the slightly less scary (but horrifying nonetheless!) version of the Civilian, the Matriarch is your best bet. As a bonus it’s significantly cheaper!
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Best Extra Large/Oversized EDC Knives
1. Cold Steel Rajah II
I bought this knife expecting to hate it, then ended up falling it love with it. It’s not the most elegant knife around (although it does have a quirky sort of beauty in my opinion), but its sheer size is pretty awe inspiring. When you are fed up with political correctness or just want to be a contrarian – this is the perfect EDC. Its not really a knife, more of a folding machete.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Cold Steel Rajah II
2. Spyderco Tatanka
Never owned it, again though, I did handle it, and considered buying it if not for the price. Strongest lock without going to the Cold Steel TRIAD lock (you know how I feel about the Tri-Ad Lock; I shan’t regurgitate my praises), but sadly, it’s very pricy. In terms of size and strength, however, the Spyderco Tatanka is one of the toughest knives around and most definetly the toughest Spyderco. Some may argue that the Spyderco Tuff is tougher, but having handled both, I would say the nod goes to the Tatanka.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
3. Spyderco Szabo
Cold Steel oversized knives are scary because they are oversized; the Szabo is scary because its scary. End of. I think if you shrunk it to a keychain size blade it would still look like it just wants to stab you. By far the most tactical knife I can think of (at least aesthetically) and the compression lock and its generous size makes it a solid contender for the best oversized EDC knife. As a sidenote, this knife never reached commercial success (as is common with the quirkier Spydies) so when it becomes discontinued, I am almost certain its value will skyrocket. I bought a Spyderco Dodo Sprint run for 120 bucks, I could sell it tomorrow for 300. Interesting/odd duck Spydies are some of the best investments you can make in my opinion.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
4. Cold Steel Voyager Tanto XL
The lightest, biggest knife around. I can think of no knife that is so absurd to pull out of your pocket (please don’t do this in public unless you are in a free state – this thing is the textbook definition of an offensive weapon). I once pulled it out around my in-laws and they just stopped talking and stared – and these are people used to me flinging around knives. The Voyager XL is huge, and yet due to its lightweight nature, is remarkably pocketable. I actually EDCed this for quite a long time, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend doing so if you’re interested. It’s the most EDC-friendly oversized knife you can buy by a significant margin.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Cold Steel Voyager Tanto XL
5. Extrema Ratio RAO
I don’t own it, I wish I did. This is the sort of blade you own “just because you can.” In terms of real world use… I don’t know what you would use it for. The blade is as wide as it is long – we are talking a folding sharpened shovel here people. I can definitely understand the lust around this monster, but sadly, until the price becomes affordable (for me), I shan’t be reviewing it.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Best Titanium Framelock EDC Knives
1. Spyderco Sage 2
I have waxed poetics over the Sage 2 for many years. It’s a kickass blade with a kickass framelock from one of the best factories in the world. I love it.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Spyderco Sage 2
2. Boker Epicenter by Rexford
I have been meaning to get this slab of titanium for a while. Great Rexford design at a very attractive price point. Historically, it had fit and finish issues, but it seems all problems have since been fixed.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
3. Zero Tolerance 0454 Sinkevich
Basically, the cheapest introduction to an almost Shirogorov without getting into crazy pricing, though if I had the money, a custom Shiro would be one of my first buys. Super nice deployment, fit and finish, and style.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
4. Benchmade 761 Titanium
Looks amazing and with Benchmade’s quality control, I expect it will perform just as well as it looks. Ranks very high on my wishlist.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
5. Maxpedition Excelsa
I think it’s the least expensive option (correct me if I am wrong) on the market, and from all reviews I have read it looks to be a solid contender for the poor man’s Sebenza.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Best Little EDC Knives
1. Kershaw Cinder
Absolutely tiny tyke. It’s for all intents and purposes a keychain knife, but interestingly enough, the ergonomics are top notch for its size. The design of the Cinder is very interesting. It’s technically (only just barely) a multitool and it’s completely adorable when closed. I own slipjoints that are way more intimidating than this lil’ blade. Sadly, the steel is subpar. In terms of real world use, I haven’t had any disastruous experiences (then again, I haven’t used it enough to tell – wait until the review for my final judgement) which tells me it’s not a butter knife, but I do wish Kershaw went with the higher carbon 8Cr13MoV; a few pennies more, but a significantly harder steel.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
2. Spyderco Roadie
I knew I would love the Spyderco Roadie the moment I saw it. Bought it along with the Spyderco Pingo (which I do not like in the slightest) and found it remarkably useful from an EDC perspective. Legal pretty much everywhere with great neutral ergonomics and excellent grinds and steel choice. An absolute winner that I see myself starting a collection of in the future. Please Spyderco, release the Roadie with carbon fiber scales?
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Spyderco Roadie
3. Spyderco Ambitious
While I’ve never owned it, I do have the Spyderco Tenacious (3 of them in fact) and the Resilience and frankly, that’s enough for me. I did handle the Spyderco Ambitious in store and it’s basically what you would expect – a shrunk down Spyderco Persistence, which in turn is a shrunk down Tenacious. The Ambitious is a solid knife with a solid, dependable design. Not the most exciting or unique knife out there, but it will do its job – no questions asked.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
4. Case Small Texas Toothpick
Ah Case. I have a love affair with traditional American knives. Maybe it was my diet of Stallone movies as a kid or maybe I am nostalgic over a bygone era of uncharted trails and cowboys, but there is definitely something special about these classic slipjoints. This Case knife is legendary in its own right, and beyond being a decent small EDC, it’s probably the classiest option on this list. One of my first choices for a formal knife – thinking church or weddings here!
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
5. Boker Plus Subcom Titan
The biscuit knife has been the default suggestion on the forums for small(er) knives for many years now and finally we have a Titanium version with premium steel. Top marks Chad Los Banos- you designed a very cool knife with above average performance. I really love how this one disappears in your pocket.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Best Left-Handed EDC Knives
1. Benchmade 940 Osborne
Some of you might be surprised that I didn’t pick the Spyderco Para-Military 2 for the #1 spot on this list. After all, it’s always topped my lists for the best EDC knives on the market. The reality is, however, whilst the Paramilitary 2 is indeed viable for wrong handed folks, it’s not as neutral as the 940 as a consequence of the PM2’s compression lock. The actuation is different from left hand to right hand, and thus the Benchmade 940 Osborne is my top recommendation for a lefty EDC. It is a 100% neutral platform that works identically regardless of hand bias and is ultimately one of the best folding knives ever created. As the years go on, I find myself picking it over the Paramilitary 2 more and more- the only thing the Paramilitary does better is (in my opinion) cutting performance. Even then, the Benchmade ain’t no slouch!
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Benchmade 940 Osborne
2. Cold Steel Recon 1
Impressively (like a lot of Cold Steel knives) the Recon 1 comes with a special clip designed to mirror the right side carry. On this particular knife, as with pretty near well all Cold Steels, this isn’t an afterthought, but a conscious decision to support all handed people and at an extremely reasonable price-point. I still prefer the Benchmade for EDC-ing but the lock strength and toughness of the Recon 1 is legendary. For rougher tasks – regardless of left or right hand carry, it’s bang for buck one of the best knives ever made.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Cold Steel Recon 1
3. Spyderco Para-military 2
In my opinion, while the Paramilitary 2 will never be my favourite Spyderco, it is still the ultimate introduction to Spyderco and can hold its head up high as a pretty perfect figurehead. I will always love my Military more, but every time I say this I have to follow up with the acknowledgement that the Para-military is objectively a better knife when looking at raw performance relative to size. The compression lock operates nicely when using it in the “wrong” hand, but due to the liner design as opposed to the TRI-AD lock or the AXIS lock, it is still biased somewhat. Not because it is harder (or easier), but because it is different. The Spyderhole, though, is (in my opinion) the best deployment system ever created and obviously doesn’t care what finger or thumb you happen to use. And this I do have personal experience with, since my thumb is pretty busted and I often use my middle finger to deploy with a Spydie hole.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the Spyderco Paramilitary 2
If you’re a lefty who wants more recommendations in this category, we’ve got your back.
> View more left-handed EDC knife recommendations.
Best EDC Fixed Blade Neck Knives
1. Spyderco ARK
ARK stands for “Always Ready Knife.” This blade came about as a self defence option for deployed soldiers, particularly in the case of sexual assault. Spyderco has a long history of creating tools to defend the most likely to be aggressed, and I commend them wholeheartedly for this. Look at the Civilian as a good example of a knife company dealing with a problem head on. The ARK is designed to always be with you. With this function in mind, Spyderco designed the ARK using synthetic scales that are super grippy even when wet, and the steel used is H1, a nitrogen based alloy that is rust-proof. Not stainless – it’s literally rust-proof.
I have yet to handle an H1 knife (it’s on the list, I promise), but based on years of testing by thousands of people, it does what it says on the tin. I think this is possibly the best option for a 24/7 carry blade with superb in-hand retention and no real downsides. If I had to absolutely only have 1 neck knife – this would be it.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
2. CRKT Folts Minimalist
My most discreet neck knife. For when you really, really don’t want to be noticed wearing a knife, this is an excellent option. Remove the scales & flatten the sheath and it will literally disappear under your shirt.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the CRKT Minimalist
3. ESEE Candiru
Absolutely love this little tyke. Great ergonomics with the optional scales & plenty of oomph behind the edge to do whatever is required of it in the field.
Availability: Amazon • Blade HQ • eBay
Read our review of the ESEE Candiru
A neck knife fan? Want to browse through more recommended options than just these three?
> View more everyday carry neck knife recommendations here.
More Knife Recommendations
If you liked this list, but haven’t yet found what you were looking for, check out what I believe to be the best bang-for-buck folding knives by price point.
And if you’re interested in brand new knives that have just hit the market, check out my take on the new knife releases from 2017 (specifically those showcased at SHOT Show).
Sales, Discounts, & Clearance on Knives
Find current sales on knives and other camping & outdoor gear offered by knife retailers like Knife Center, Blade HQ, and GP Knives, as well as outdoor retailers like Cabella’s, REI, and Patagonia on our massive list of knife & outdoor retailers’ sale, deal, & clearance pages. We’ve added as many discount pages to the list as we could so that deals around the net are easy to find from this one page.
What Do You Think Are the Best EDC Knives?
Well that’s a mega-post if I’ve ever saw one! Hopefully you’ve found what you were looking for – or at least something you liked – and if not, no worries! Keep an eye on our reviews as there’ll be plenty more EDC knives featured over time.
Let us know your experience with any of the knives listed above in the comments section. If you feel like a few knives that didn’t make it to this mega-list should’ve made it up there, let us know which knives and why – as well as which section you feel they belong in.
And of course, if you have a favourite EDC, be sure to share that with us as well!
Thomas & Elise, I miss your knife/edc reviews. I’d love to get your take on how the knife world has changed, super steels, and innovations you like. I wish you both all the best.
Cheers Mike, I’ll think about doing a write up on this. ;)
I would guess that I have over 300 knives in inventory, including SOG knives. Even at that, I have had at least one knife made to my specifications for a special application that I could not make. I don’t call a person names because his choice is different.
Criteria for selection:
who actually uses the knife (if the wife uses it, she is the person, NOT YOU), age, skill level, physical disability, right or left handed, application(s), carry position, clothing normally worn, situation normally carried, frequency of usage, other equipment carried
IF I related what fixed blade and folder knives were within hand reach, you would exclaim “Holy s—“. They are last ditch fighting knives. But if I were out walking, ok, but a SOG folder in the pocket.
Agreed BDC, everyone has different prerequisites and we often forget this.
I have had or tried many pocket knives. The one that gets exclusive pocket time is my Victorinox compact. ?
Victorinox may not be as cool as the latest Spyderco but for everyday use- its definitely more useful 99% of the time.
It now a year later and I will comment specifically on the first choice of the Spyderco Paramilitary with disclosures up front. The first disclosure is that I own the Paramilitary, a couple of the police models and at least a half dozen Endura models. I work on knives as an avocation.
Today, I will be dressed as I am every day – t shirt/gym shorts with pockets/tennis shoes. Yep, I am retired. I am retired and the balloon has not gone up. The Paramilitary and Police models are too heavy to carry in gym shorts. The nod goes to the plain edge, refurbished Endura 4 made in Seki Japan. One Police model is in the briefcase. Backup serrated blade Enduras are within Benchmade bidirectional sheaths in the car.
The article is correct that the situation dictates the EDC. When I was in Afghanistan over 40 years ago, I carried 5 knives. The best was a Buck 110.
So nice to see you in the comments BDC, I always look forward to them! I am inclined to agree in some ways with your assessment- personally I love the Delica- perfect size and feel (for me) but I have to look at averages when declaring a “best of” with regards to optimal performance across the board- not just how I “feel” about a certain tool otherwise it would be a very biased list with no representation for the majority that may not seek what I seek (small, light, razor sharp with steep angles).
I will always love the Buck 110- probably the knife I own that holds the most sentimental value (as I wrote in my review), As a kid I used to see it in catalogs but could never afford it, it was a “proper” knife- not for kids. When I finally got one as an adult, I was beyond excited and to this day I smile whenever I hold it in my hands. Its interesting how we can have such strong feelings attached to such simple tools, no?
Great article Thomas. All the information on EDC knife that I wanted to know is in front of me..
Thanks Andrew!
Fixed bladed knifes will always surpass any blade that is folded. If you want to bet your life on one then go ahead see if it will last the test of strength. The strongest steels do not make for a sharp edge and vice versa you can have a blade with a surgical edge to it, but it won’t be strong enough to take into a survival situation. Just keep that in mind when you want to decide what to purchase.
Not accurate with today’s steels- check out CPM-3V, VG-10, CPM-S30V etc. Plenty of strength and edge retention. As for folders vs fixed blades, its fair to say that fixed blades are usually much stronger but if you take (for example) a Cold Steel Recon 1 vs an inexpensive fixed blade, I would wager the Recon 1 would survive long after the fixed blade.
Another comment, following onto some one else’s on the Old Timer. Assume that you are not a policeman, have no knife fighting skills, and are not going to chop down a tree or make kindling. The Old Timer is a folder with two blades. Costs under $20. You can put one in the car, the old windbreaker, your pocket, the backpack and forget about their existence. If stolen or confiscated, no big deal. If you have to clean your nails, cut string or rope, open a package, or some minor chore, you have it with you.
My dad and ancestors got along fairly well without owning a flipper, a switchblade, a bushcraft knife, or even a Mora. Even the politically correct big box stores will most likely and reluctantly have such a knife available.
Some knife features are great in a video or in a review and never become necessary in real life. If you ever consider a Victorinox Swiss knife, forget chopping down trees. Get a model that has a pair of scissors as you are most likely going to use the knife to cut hangnails or clean the finger nails.
Ditto if you ever buy a leatherman tool. Look for a scissors function. In fact, the only time I have ever used a Leatherman was on vacation in France and used the pliers function to crack open mussels. The Russian at the next table spent his time trying to use a used mussel shell to crack open a new mussel.
Howdy bdc, sadly I can’t recommend the Old Timer since production moved to China. I have nothing against Chinese made knives but to take an American classic, have it made overseas and then pretend nothing has changed is just too offensive (for me). I would feel the same if Buck ever moved production of the 110 to China.
With regards to modern knife technologies, I agree that a lot of it is overkill for everyday use but I do not see myself going back to a “2 hand” opening knife. I have become far too used to my Spydies for that!
Thanks for dropping by mate, we always appreciate it.
Just way too many choices, pick one or two and move on.
No such thing as too many choices! ;)
I insist a pocket knife be ambidextrous opening and closing with one hand. And Spyderco knives with the hole and a “ball bearing” lock are the easiest ambidextrous open/close ones I’ve found. The Benchmade Axis lock is just as good, and with thumb studs, they are almost as easy to open. I have both, but since my income is limited and my ability to lose things is not, I usually carry a Ganzo with Spyderco or Gryptillan styling and an Axis lock. Not as good as the Spyderco or the Benchmade, of course, but pretty good and 1/5 the cost so when I do lose one, I don’t freak out.
Y porque no una byrd? Mismo precio y supervisado por spyderco
Nunca he oído hablar del Byrd, pero lo investigaré
Entra en spyderco y ahi las veras, en la misma pagina, bajate el catalogo y veras toda la gama
Delica 4=meadowlark2, pero mejor acero en delica
Endura 4=cara cara 2 pero mejor acero en endura.
Valen 1/3 del precio
Se ven bien, pero:
1) Son dos veces más caros que Ganzo
2) No están hechos del acero 440C
3) No tienen la “bola” bloqueo ambidiestro
I appreciate that you acknowledged the Buck 110 and the Kershaw Burr and eliminated them. Of course, one size does not fit all. I went to places where most people don’t vacation – Algeria, Iran, Red China, the Golden Triangle, Afghanistan. A heavy 110 was ideal as a cutter of food,rope. Excellent for usage as a yawara stick. Not a day-in, day out, defensive weapon.
Kershaw Burr and lesser priced Kershaw, like the current assisted opening knives for about $20. If you aren’t a workman, going to dangerous parts of town, and may lose a knife (I am still looking for my misplaced goodwill Skagen watch that I misplaced), you might get by with one in a windbreaker pocket when you go to the movies, go to the park,
A person also needs to think about whether he wants a knife to last a lifetime or not and whether a replacement can be obtained. At the time of the First Gulf War, a Marine Corp unit purchased the Spyderco Endura partially serrated knives from me at cost. They were used to puncture cans, cut items, dig in the dirt! Horrors! And they explained that they knew that they would abuse the knives, but they could get replacements.
If price point is a consideration, when you have the skills to clean, lubricate and sharpen a knife, you can buy them by the ton used/confiscated on eBay.
Thanks for sharing Brian, I personally have never been able to snap up a bargain off eBay and now that I am in the UK- I can’t buy them there (eBay doesn’t allow knives here, sadly).
I feel like I am missing out :(
I bought a CRKT Jim Hammond Cruiser OD Green Straight Clip Point Pocket Knife 790 – Great Knife for the money. Hefty enough it feels competent in your hands, with an engineered fit that seems solid. I have the Opinel No 8 Carbon Knife as well. Nice light weight little knife that will serve well for light duty needs. Then I have a WESTERN 4.5″ blade brand pocket knife that is from the 1960’s and is brand new with a leather belt holder. That Gem is worth $250 today. Thanks Uncle Jim for that. Bought a Stainless GREEN BERET knife on eBay with a canvas belt sheath- because I picked up on that Claire Redfield was wearing one in the Resident Evil – Extinction film. ( I have researched and purchased every item that Claire wears in that movie. Only her knee high boots and hat patch eludes me! So I had to find something close to them. That’s one of my hobby’s; Building a wardrobe exactly like some action movie Heroine. i.e. Claire Redfield/ Lara Croft/ The Banditas/ Sarah Connor/ The Lady=Sharon Stone in The Quick and the Dead/ Michelle Rodriguez = Battle Field Los Angles / if she’s a kick-ass female who carries and uses a gun – I have her wardrobe. Some things I have to make. The LADY was difficult to copy and very expensive. Every item she wears as a female gunfighter is loaded with subtle detailing.
I have been building an EDC kit for a females needs. I’ve kept it simple but effective for daily life. I have a two BUG OUT bags, one small, one large. -Two Duffel Bags packed and ready to go – and 12 high grade plastic, weather-proof Foot Lockers, all stuffed to capacity. When it becomes suddenly clear it’s time to get out of dodge – I’ll pack up the old Reo Comet Bus and head out on the back roads. If they’re lobbing Nukes back and forth – ain’t no where you can go, but bend over, pucker up and bid your rear goodbye. `Stay alert, Pay attention, Research, Read, Listen, Talk less, Prepare. Practice. `nuff sed.
How do you store your knives, or even keep track of where each one is with so many of them?
Good question! I have 5 pouch sleeves (Spyderco branded) and 2 large draws for the fixed blades. In terms of keeping track of them, I have a spreadsheet for that.
I’m surprised that in every EDC list I’ve seen lately not a single SOG or KA BAR makes the list. I’ve never carried SOGS for long but I’ve found them to be popular. My EDC for years has been a KA BAR Dozer, which I get it, it’s too big and heavy to be an EDC for most folks. Still I’m curious why these knives never seem to make the cut. Pun intended.
In terms of bang for buck they have fallen off the wagon as of late. Maybe they will make a comeback in the future but for now in terms of value, much better options are available.
Thanks for dropping by Chris!
Yes Especially Lets not Forget about the SOG Twitch ii, pick one up and ,hold it in your hand and it will Convince you all by it self, there is NO WAY the Kershaw Leek can be mentioned in this article as a Tactical Folder without the Twitch ii being in the Conversation, No Way !
Can’t say I have an extensive collection, but my favorite EDC is a Buck 501 squire. I lost count of the number of deer gutted and fish cleaned with it. Carried it when doing hay and feeding horses, cutting baler twine. Still sharp. I see they now have one slightly larger, the Duke. Two complaints on these: no thumb opening and no pocket clip. They come with a leather sheath, but are easily pocket carried.
If it works, it works. Haven’t handled the 501 before but if I hear more people mention it, I will snap one up. Don’t know how I would cope without one hand opening though…
Carson design M21-14 spear point. I don’t even know how long I’ve had it. Super reliable liner lock which never tempts your confidence. It doesn’t do everything perfectly,(And I’m always bummed it’s imported. I carry a 110 and Leatherman Surge to offset the overseas spectre.) but I haven’t found a task short of batoning, (cause it’s a knife not an axe) where it let me down. I’ve pryed, poked, deburred ( look it up) eaten with, used as personal defense option, and in general just loved the hell out of it. Again it’s heavy, I get it. (my personal EDC pocket dump(( not counting my side arm)) is almost 3lbs.) It’s semi-offensive, sort of the point. Reliable for under $60.00, I’m poor. Plus CRKT has great customer service. Free parts upon request. A stupid pocket clip from Leatherman is seven bucks! FCOL! It’s not for everyone or even most, but honestly I like how I rarely see it some other jafo’s pocket or hand. Just my thoughts. Just wondering if you have had the opportunity to review it or maybe you did and I simply don’t know what I’m talking about. Hit me back. Thanks.
I never liked how some companies charge for replacement parts. Doesn’t sit right with me, good on CRKT for doing the right thing! I will look into the M21 (and M14)- a lot of love for those two knives! Thanks for sharing your experiences Lonny!
Excellent article! Really enjoyed hearing about your preferences and reasons why; I don’t know any other knife nuts in person that are as fanatical as we are on the forums ;) If I may share a little story…first off, I am an active duty Air Force pilot, and my obsession with all-things-stabby is absolutely ludicrous! It all started as a child, no older than 5 I’d say. My father gave me my first knife…in fact it was my first tool, and more significantly my first test of responsibility. It was a classic Swiss Army knife. We would use it to make model airplanes together and boy I just thought it was the coolest thing in the world. I was always admiring it, and one day, it bit the freaking hell out of me as I accidentally closed the blade on my puny adolescent finger, essentially filleting my index finger lengthwise to the bone. That was my first lesson is responsible ownership and carry of a knife! I learned to respect it and loved it all the more. I began to receive a series of hand me down blades from my old man (an attack helicopter pilot by the way). My next blade was a Camillus Lever Lock…not the greatest quality by any means but revolutionary for it’s time! I carried it everday all thru junior high (back in the good ol day when that wasn’t such a big deal…). Then all thru high school I inherited a Kershaw Whirlwind, my first true assisted opener! Every knife I received instantly became my new favorite possession. In college, I bought my very first new knife myself, a SOG Trident with the tiger stripe clip point and partial serrations. Gosh, I became enthralled with that enormous tactical blade that thwacked open with the assist every time. Carried that all the way up thru SERE school, having completed flight training at that point….and lost it in the field…I swear, the anxiety that washed over me from the feeling of not having my trusty pocket sidekick for the first time in nearly 2 decades was downright overwhelming. I immediately went to the exchange on base hoping to replace the trident with another, however to my disappointment there were none. I did leave that day with a new SOG Flash 2 however. I’ll say this, I liked the Flash 2 a lot, but it did not meld with me like the Trident. Nevertheless it became my new EDC for the next year, and I will admit I really enjoyed the speed of the Flash (no pun intended). Later that year I deployed to Afghanistan and was issued something I had never even heard of before….a Benchmade. 2 of them actually (it always pays to be buddies with a guy in supply ;). I got a 9555 Axis Auto Rift and a 3550 Pardue push button auto. Both blacked out partial serrated (the military is huge on combo edges I’ve come to find). Well, with a hint of shame I admit, I never once used or even carried the 9555, it was just too bad ass amazing for me to dream about wrecking or losing it. So it stayed in my locked mobility bag back in my hooch, and it remains in that deployment bag today. Instead I carried the 3550 as a backup in my flight suit knife pocket where it seemed like it was designed precisely for that space, and the Flash 2 was my daily user in another pocket. I was also issued a standard Ontario 499 pilot survival knife but it stayed in my vest and never saw the light of day. Happy to report that the Flash 2 held up like a rock star and only has some rust in the arc lock, a considerable amount of blade play and a bent pocket clip to show for it’s service. It’s been retired to a backup pack knife now. When I got home, I was still on a SOG kick considering I wasn’t quite at the point of dropping Benchmade-class money on my own accord yet. Instead I got a SOG Escape on discount and one for my wife. My first all manual lock back! Not super impressive but holy hell it had an incredibly solid lock back design and just felt really robust. It was my new EDC and I beat the snot out of it for two years. Then, something happenned which changed my life forever. I wanted a new toy, and I wanted it now, and a new gun was too expensive. I kept reading all about these Benchmade vs Spyderco comparisons. I had never heard of a Spyderco, but then I saw an Endura 4 at the exchange and picked it up. That was it…that did me…without realizing it I had just stepped into the realm of becoming hopelessly obsessed with knives! I started researching…like a lot of researching…getting smart on all things in a knife fanatics vocabulary. Then I started making lists…like a lot of lists. Different knives I wanted. Or needed. And thinking of all different roles and categories for said knives. Then I started buying. It started off with one every couple months…then once a month…then maybe twice a month…then damn near once a week…and finally to the point of placing bulk orders of multiple knives just about every week! Yes sir I have a sickness. And now, I carry 3 to 5 everywhere, all day. And I change my kit depending on what I’m doing, what I’m wearing , etc. I have folders and fixed blades stashed EVERYWHERE. I know, I’m kind of looney now, especially considering that no matter how much I try to convince myself I’m a user and not a collector, I’m definitely more of a collector because really I don’t even get to use them much during my day to day tasks. To steal a Nutnfancy phrase, I carry in systems. When I’m in my flight suit, I have a Gerber Covert in 154cm in my knife pocket (dagger pocket as I like to say), the benchmade 3550 now rides in my helmet bag; a Cold Steel Recon 1 tanto in CTS XHP on my right thigh, a Kershaw CQC 6K in my left chest pocket (the wave works awesome on flight suit pockets too!), a Kabar TDI hellfire on my right boot, and a Cold Steel Double Agent around the neck. In summer civilian attire, I carry a Kershaw CQC 3K in my right pocket (3″ blade limit where I currently live), a Benchmade 527 mini presidio ultra in my left pocket, a HK Plan D “punch knife” on the left hip appendix carry, and a Cold Steel mini pal on the neck. For winter civilian wear I swap the mini pal for the double agent and add a Buck Ops 616 boot knife to the right boot. At the gym I carry a Spyderco Tasman Salt, the HK Plan D, and next to arrive a Spyderco Ark for the neck. At home I carry an Ontario RAT 1, Cold Steel XL Voyager, Double Agent, and a Mora (526?) on the hip. And that doesn’t even include what I sometimes swap out for, or what is carried off body ie in my truck or bags, or for other activities ie hunting! Well now, I needed to get that off my chest! Does that count as therapy? Thanks for reading. Stay sharp my friends!
The key Deebs is to accept the sickness and not worry too much about being a user vs a collector. ;) The Cold Steel Recon 1 is such an incredible knife for the money right? I don’t know how I wont so long without one. Same with the Kershaw/Emerson collaborations.
I don’t know if MTJS is the best place for therapy (maybe it will make it worst!) but you are more than welcome to scribble your thoughts. I appreciate insights from other knife aficionados. Stay safe in the clouds Deebs.
I just thought I’d chime in, since my go-to EDC doesn’t seem to get any love here. I’m a die hard fan of my combo edge Kershaw Shallot. I’ve carried that knife for years and it’s done everything I’ve ever asked of it. The only downside might be to someone with bigger hands, but to me the slim design is just another feature that makes it perfect.
Enjoyed your article Thomas! As an owner of a Benchmade Mini Barrage, SOG Twitch II, a wickedly fast opening Kershaw liner lock (model escapes me), a Muela red stag handle fixed blade plus several cheap beaters used when doing mainly yard work and received as gifts, I can appreciate your love for a good knife. I personally like lockback designs above liner locks, frame locks, etc. Kudos!
Thanks for the positive feedback, really appreciate it. Take a look at Cold Steel TRIAD lock knives its like a lockback on steroids. I love them!
Dude what about the sebenza? I know it’s a very high priced knife but you can’t argue the quality and craftsmanship. Not to mention the lifetime warranty.
I have owned a Sebbie before (small) & will definitely do a review on one in the future. In terms of bang for buck I never saw the appeal. The lock isn’t as reliable as many other knives in that price point (look for the Cold Steel test on it on youtube, its shocking) & I am never a huge fan of hollow ground blades- especially at that price point.
The tolerances are very tight though but remember, many companies offer lifetime warranty including Kershaw and Benchmade as well as most “mid-tech” manufacturers.
Keep a look out for a Sebenza review, no promises that you will like it though! ;)
Hey, no problem man. We all have our preferences. And I do like the article. I’m a huge fan of kershaw knives. For the longest the leek was always in my pocket. I’m a huge knife fanatic and appreciate your reviews. Keep it up!
What would you recommend someone who lives in NYC as an EDC, with a tactical edge to it?
I’m torn between all the US made Spydercos and Benchmade models and ideally I would get the Paramilitary 2 if it were legal here…
Spyderco Dragonfly 2 is light, vicious & as far as I know, legal pretty much everywhere in the states. Have you looked at the mini H&K knives? They are made by Benchmade & I think they have a sub 3″ blade model.
Curious that not one benchmade made this list. Specially with the popularity of the griptilian and mini griptilian
A total of five (5) Benchmade knives made this list, including the Griptilian. ;)
This list needs the izula I have it and candiru but I prefer the izula.
I prefer the Candiru (I own both), its crazy how comfortable the candiru is taking into account how small the handle is.
ESEE/Rowan make some superb blades regardless of which model you chose (in my opinion).
Thanks for dropping by Monk!
Wow, someone likes shitty plastic handled pocket knives, not a nice classic wood handle among them. Worthless article.
This article is worth precisely what you paid for it. ;)
Spyderco tenacious!!!
it’s one of the best if not the best!
Agreed, fantastic blade that takes a wicked edge.
I love the benchmade one. just bought benchmade 275 yesterday and really love it! thanks for mentioning it in your article, i think i am not wrong buying it!
Glad you like it Andhy!
Ummmm, why would anyone waste their money on a kersgaw, and this list is bogus. Emerson knives are the best folders on the planet period. This isn’t my opinion, I have seen marines in Iraq ditch their K-bar for an Emerson folder. I know SEALs that won’t operate without one, and in my experiences in the shit, the field, around the house, at work, so on…. It’s the only knife that has made it through all of that. And for everyone that’s going to say that 180-380 is too much for a folder then I say to you that when you break or wear out your crappy knife, what are you going to do??? I know what your going to do, buy another crappy knife, so your really not saving money your actually wasting it. My emerson cqc is 15 years old 6 years in the Army two combat deployments , carried every day here and overseas, not to mention I’ve done construction since I I’ve been discharged, you can’t kill them. Period.
Nothing but love for Emersons but Kershaw also produce great products- even Ernie agrees hence his collabs with them.
Great list. In surprised the slysz Bowie didn’t make the list while the 761 did. I can’t speak for the 761, but the slysz is absolutely excellent. And to Matt up top, Maryland is ridiculous. The main problem is cops don’t know the law. Technically any knife that isn’t an auto or dagger is legal to carry, including a balisong. I was arrested once for carrying a balisong, and you should have seen the cops face when he got to the station and read the law out loud to tell me why I was arrested. I got an apology, but I don’t get my Benchmade back… Grrrr
Howdy Troy!
Unfortunately I have yet to purchase the Slysz bowie and thus I am hesitant about recommending knives I don’t own.
One of these days I will snap it up and likely edit (or make a new list)!
I’m really happy to see the hissatsu at the top if your list. Have you seen it’s little brother the heiho yet?
I have checked it out and one of these days I will acquire it and review it! Love J. William designs!
Thomas I’m quite surprised that there’s no mention of the very popular, very cost effective, very ambidextrous kabar dozier. For under $21, a great value.
http://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Dozier-Folding-Hunter-Knife/dp/B000BSWEBY/ref=sr_1_1?&ie=UTF8&qid=1440185333&sr=8-1&keywords=kabar+dozier
The Dozier is a pretty nice folder, I handled it a few years back and besides the excellent price/quality ratio I didn’t find it super interesting. The Kershaw Chill offers more in a sleeker package (just my opinion)!
Thanks for dropping by Tom!
Hmmm..a good list and I enjoy your reviews. How ever in see too many spydercos on this list. Other than the om2 and delica i feel they’re over priced and overrated.
They are a touch expensive- agreed. However in my opinion I find them better value than Benchmades & I just can’t give up the Spyderhole. By far my favourite deployment system!
Whats your favourite brand?
You have not a single clue what your talking about. Spydercos are nowhere near over priced. The ergonomics of them are out of this world. I’ve had many many spydercos. My absolute favorite the the Manix 2. With g10 and the partially spyde edge serrations!!! Amazingggggg knife. The s30 is a great steel, not the best but deffinetly up there. And the ergonomics of the Manix 2 are one of a kind. By far the best feeling folder in your hand. Especially the choke up choil comes in handy time and time again. Behind the Manix 2 is the PM2!!! All blacked murdered out !!!! And back to the guy a couple comments back that was mumbling about shit plastic handles and wood is the best…. your an absolute idiot. U take a wooden handled folder or fixed blade and I’ll take spydercos FRN HANDLED knife or any other g10 or even micarta and wel see which one last longer. IDIOT. Wooden knife handles are way more for show then practical in the shit use. And I bet you’d have a reply like my wooden handled knife my great grand father gave me has gutted a million deer and blah blah blah. To which I’d respond my g10 or frn handled spyderco will guy a million x 2!!!
I learned one thing from your article. I don’t jack squat about knives. Whew. That was a sh*t load of information and I will be coming back to it a few more times.
My first EDC was a two blade Old Timer my Pop gave me and I have carried everything from minature gerbers to machetes since. Pop had a three blade Buck that he carried and its the only thing I can ever remember him gutting and skinning the moose or caribou with.
Thanks for the article and the reviews.
You would be surprised with what you know Dave! My neighbour has an Old Timer & I really dig the styling and its feel in hand. I hear bucks are very popular as hunting knives, personally I would go with a Spyderco Bill Moran for a super lean full flat ground blade but as long as it cuts decently & you find it comfortable I think its safe to say you have something that works for you!
Wow, super informative article. Thanks for taking the time to share lots of details. Good read.
Thank you very much Paige, glad you enjoyed it.
Really enjoying your articles. Nice work!
Thanks for dropping by Joe!
Awesome Thomas !
Step 1 of the 12 step program is recognizing that a Buck 110 is not an EDC ! : )
I know this is totally off tangent but I am just musing-
To be honest I am always torn, on one hand I have to be objective as to not mislead my readers, on the other, I have my own biases.
The Buck 110 is so damn heavy that I can’t on good conscience recommend it in the same league as something like the Spyderco Endura. But I still love it muchly.
I really do.
I just got the SOG Flash II in the mail today for review purposes (spoiler alert: its mediocre, get a Kershaw Blur instead). and its always weird for me to EDC gear that I dislike just so I can get a good feel for it simply for review purposes.
In conclusion Dan, my life is weird & my rant is now over.
Gotta agree about the SOG Flashes. I did concert security and picked up a couple “free”. Not impressed either. My EDC is a CRKT M16-13Z and I can say it’s faster and more useful than the SOGs by a long shot. I know you don’t dig serrations, but check out the CRKT M16 series. It has a chisel grind, so if you really feel the need to get the serrations laser sharp all you have to do is strop the flat side a bit. It’s an easy keeper, wicked fast when tuned right, and super secure with the auto-LAWK system. Only real down sides are the smooth polymer flakes, and the need for a little blue loctite on the clip screws. About 5 minutes with a Dremel cutting wheel fixed the handles. Also, just about everybody forgets about the most common EDC knife ever: Swiss Army. Do it right with Victorinox.
Gotta love those Swiss army knives! Thanks for sharing your anecdotes Sandy, glad to hear its not just me who has a problem with the SOG flashes!
Awesome Piece of Work Tomas…
It feels like the entire lay of the EDC knife land is in front of me..
There is a little orange one in there i now see inside my tackle box. : )
Howdy Dan! As horrifying as it may sound, that’s not even a quarter of my EDC knife collection….
Hi, my name is Thomas and I have a problem ;)
You know, I just noticed something. You didn’t recommend any partially serrated blades! (If you did, I missed it…sorry!)
I have a large collection of knives and exclusively carry and use (hard) only folders that have partially serrated blades. I use my knives a ton for my work and sometimes during play – but in my world – I absolutely need a serrated blade to cut through ropes, straps, etc. quickly.
Why no serrated love? :-)
Howdy Chris!
Ain’t gonna lie- can’t stand serrations for the most part. I own a few just so I can say I gave them a fair shot but I like being able to strop my knives after using them to keep the edge hair popping sharp. Serrations in my experience are just too much damn work!
Have you tried Veff serrations? They seem to be very popular and I admit I do find myself curious…
I would have liked to see a category for Rescue knives. All of those EDC knives that have glass breakers and seatbelt cutters.
We will definitely do a rescue knife article in the future (once I own enough of them to have a real opinion). It will be separate because the criteria & prerequisites are so specialized. Thanks for reminding me Pete!
Excited to see you will be finally reviewing my favorite EDC knife the Buck Vantage. I own a lot of knives ranging from cheap to high end production models but I always end up with the Vantage in my pocket. Despite buying numerous knives it has been my mainstay for the last ten years or so. It is slim and lightweight with a blade that holds an edge pretty well and is easy to sharpen. I use it for everything. The open design makes it easy to clean the knife before using it to cut food. Love the deep pocket clip. Can’t see the knife at all in my pocket. Yet, the slim design makes it easy slip out of my pocket when I need it. I am a huge fan of flipper knives that aren’t assisted openers and thankfully Buck didn’t ruin (in my opinion) the Vantage with an assist. I get too much grit and dirt in my knives assist mechanisms that I’m constantly taking them apart to clean them so they operate smoothly. Usually, a rinse in hot soapy water and the Vantage is good to go. That’s my two cents though. Looking forward to your review of it.
So many people asked about the Vantage that I had to get one. Power of the people & all that!
I expect it to live up to the hype, if not i’ll come back here and blame you ;)
Good reviews – Thanks. :) (and happy to see all those “Spyderhole” blades)
I’ll whole-heartedly second the recommendation for the Spyderco ‘Tenacious’ (cheap enough that I have 4, in the pockets on my current “outside” pants, work or dress, so I don’t have to search for a folder before going outside.
I’d add its “baby brother” the ‘Ambitious’. Small enough to live in a shirt pocket and look pretty much like a pen-clip, but still a very handy tool.
It depends, of course, on local carry laws, but in many “restrictive” locales, even a tiny folder can be illegal. In the UK, anything that locks is illegal. I haven’t checked the People’s Republic of Maryland lately, but I think printer paper is illegal there, because it might cut someone. My daughter, who lives in MD, was scared that I might get pulled-over for having my catering knife-case on the passenger seat in my truck after an event. “This is VA, not MD, sweetie”.
Surprisingly, even in “Sullivan Law” NYC, a 2.5 inch Mora in a sheath, open-carried and not “concealed” is still perfectly-legal. You might still get pulled-in on “disturbing the peace”, etc., but the knife is legal to possess and carry. Check your local laws and stay safe. We’re all in this together.
I haven’t tried the ambitious yet- is the difference significant enough compared to the Tenacious to warrant getting one?
“I haven’t checked the People’s Republic of Maryland lately, but I think printer paper is illegal there, because it might cut someone” -well that made be spit out my coffee. Hilarious and yes, its very odd how knife laws vary from place to play so much. 100% agree with we should read up & stay safe as even well meaning actions can leave us in a heap of legislative issues if we are not careful.
Not really Thomas, the ambitious is essentially a smaller version of the tenacious. The jimping on the blade and liner of the ambitious is a little longer, and the thumb rest of the blade is steeper. The Spyderhole is smaller, basically just a condensed down version of the Tenacious.
Great article by the way, I always like your stuff and pics. excellent job
Thanks for dropping by Matt, I guess I won’t be getting the Ambitious then!
GRRREEEAAAT folding knife article. I would suggest you buy a cheap look-a-like so when people try to steal the good knife they have something else to grab. A grandfather would always give two knives to his grandson at a time so when people wanted to borrow a knife the cheaper knife was always loaned out.
Was that the cqc 7 or 6k?
I only own the 6K!
Very nice! I know this question has been asked a lot and is easy to get information on but in your opinion tanto or drop point for EDC?
Both have their pro’s & cons. I prefer a drop point for ordinary tasks & tanto’s on larger beater knives like the Cold Steel Recon 1.
Chris was asking to clarify becsuse your #3 under “across the board edc’s” states the 7k but the link is to the 6k
Whoops! Did not notice that. Thanks Chris for asking & thanks Mark for pointing this out! Fixing now!
And zero SOG knives made the list? II see youre a slut for “spyderco” knives. I have been collecting all sorts of edged weapons and never once have I heard of “spyderco”. Your entire “blog” is bullshit.
It’s actually a very informative blog with helpful content and amazing photographs. Are you this upset that there are no SOG knives reviewed here? Sounds like you’re a slut for SOG. Not to mention quite ignorant if you have not heard of Spyderco. Your entire comment is bullshit.
+1
Perfect response to a troll post.
D-MAN, try taking your foot from your mouth and actually use a spyderco before jumping to conclusions.
Great comment from the safety of your anonymity! I’ll bet your a real ‘patriot’ and tacticool guy. If you truly have never heard of Spyderco, maybe you should remain even more anonymous and keep ignorant comments to yourself and spend more time actually researching and using knives. If you cannot be respectful and acknowledge others opinions, don’t spout off toddler talk and expect people to show you any respect!
On a positive note: Thomas and Elise, I do enjoy your content and appreciate your insight on all things knives and beyond! Keep up the great work!!