When it comes to utility, few can come close to the knife.
As one of the first tools made by man, the humble knife is used to hunt and prepare food, cut materials to make them usable construction material, open sealed containers, and even serve as a defensive weapon against threats.
If you want all that utility available whenever you are, then you need the best pocket knife for you.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases if you shop through the links on RiflePal. For more information, read full disclosure here.
Contents
- TOP 5 Best Pocket Knife Brands 2024
- What Kind of Pocket Knife Do You Need?
- How Often Will You Use Your Pocket Knife?
- The Difference Between a Good Pocket Knife and the Best Pocket Knife
- The Best Pocket Knife for You
- How to Take Care of Your Pocket Knife
- TOP 21 Best Pocket Knives Reviewed 2024
- Gerber EAB Pocket Knife
- Gerber Paraframe Mini Knife
- Gerber STL 2.0 Knife
- Kershaw 1990 Brawler Speedsafe Folding Knife
- Kershaw 1605CKTST Clash Folding Knife with SpeedSafe
- Kershaw 1555TI Cryo SpeedSafe Folding Knife
- Kershaw Leek Knife
- Master USA MU-A002 Spring Assisted Folding Knife
- MTech USA Ballistic MT-A705 Spring Assist Folding Knife
- MTech USA MT-A882 Series Spring Assist Folding Knife
- Schrade Imperial IMP16S Stockman Folding Pocket Knife
- Schrade Imperial IMP16T Trapper Folding Pocket Knife
- Smith & Wesson SWMP4LS M&P Linerlock Knife
- Stanley 10-049 Pocket Knife
- Tac Force Assisted Opening Rescue Knife
- TAC Force TF-469 Gentleman’s Assisted Opening Folding Knife
- TAC Force TF-705 Series Assisted Opening Tactical Folding Knife
- TAC Force TF-707 Series Assisted Opening Folding Knife
- Victorinox Swiss Army Huntsman Pocket Knife
- Victorinox Swiss Army Tinker Pocket Knife
- Winchester 2.5 Brass Folding Knife
- Deciding on the Perfect Pocket Knife
At the end of the day, your pocket knife is one of the most important tools you own.
Many people keep their pocket knives on them at all times, since they never know when they’re going to need them.
The best pocket knife for you is a knife you know you can depend on, and a tool you’ll never want to leave the house without.
Before you proceed with the pocket knife reviews, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
And what better way to start, than with some of the best knife brands that you most certainly can trust?
TOP 5 Best Pocket Knife Brands 2024
Every brand has a different specialty. These are some of the best pocket knife brands, and they all have their own little quirks that make them unique.
Pocket knives are more than just knives – they’re tools designed to make your life easier.
When searching for the perfect knife, think about how it would complement your lifestyle.
Victorinox
Victorinox is undoubtedly one of the best pocket knife brands, and it’s also highly recognizable.
Everyone has heard of a Swiss Army knife, and that’s primarily the kind of pocket knife that this brand makes. They’ve been making knives for over a century, and they keep getting better.
One of the biggest draws to Victorinox pocket knives is the wide variety of models that they offer.
They’ve created pocket knives that are specifically suited for different professions or hobbies.
Electricians, fishermen, hikers, and construction workers will all be able to find a special model that’s designed for their job.
Victorinox is also somewhat famous for its colored scales. No matter what kind of knife you choose, you’ll be able to choose the color or pattern of the outside of the knife.
This allows you to personalize your tools a little more while also making sure that similar knives don’t get mixed up. Everyone can have their own print or color.
TAC Force
TAC Force is one of the best pocket knife brands for its versatile offerings. They make trendy pocket knives that are designed for rugged use.
Most of their knives are specialty varieties. They don’t offer a lot of standard models – they’ve left the simple work up to everyone else.
Schrade
Schrade has been making pocket knives and similar tools for many decades.
If your grandfather carried a classically designed pocket knife, he probably carried a Schrade.
These knives are made the same way great pocket knives have always been made. These are all the old-style design, and their quality rivals that of the original steel hand craftsmanship or the past.
Gerber
Gerber is not only one of the best brands of pocket knives – they’re one of the best knife brands there is.
Gerber manufactures countless types of knives and machetes. They’re an industry leader when it comes to knife technology, and they’re not afraid to innovate.
Their pocket knives are a shining example of the quality products they produce. Everyone from the casual enthusiast looking for an everyday carry tool all the way up to the most rugged outdoorsman can find a Gerber blade they’d love to use.
MTech
MTech makes very trendy pocket knives that incorporate useful features.
They utilize stylish high-tech designs on all of their cases, filling them with quality blades designed to stand the test of time.
If the way your knife functions is something you would consider equally important to the way that it looks, you won’t be let down by any of this brand’s offerings.
What Kind of Pocket Knife Do You Need?
A pocket knife is a general term that encompasses a whole host of tools. Every pocket knife is designed for a specific purpose.
A survival pocket knife, for example, wouldn’t necessarily be the best choice for an everyday carry tool.
In order to decide which pocket knife will work the best for you, you need to understand the differences between the different kinds of pocket knives and what they’re intended to do.
In some cases, one of the best Kershaw knives might be the right choice for you.
An Everyday Pocket Knife
Most people who like to keep things simple would prefer a pocket knife that’s suited for everyday carry.
The best everyday pocket knife often features a multitude of tools. For the purpose of everyday carry, the Swiss Army Knife comes out as a strong favorite.
Not only do these feature multiple knives, but many of them contain useful tools like tweezers, toothpicks, and bottle openers.
It’s essentially a toolbox that’s been made to fit in your pocket.
A Survival Pocket Knife
The best survival pocket knife is made to be rugged. This is the kind of knife you’ll want to take with you on hunting or camping trips.
These knives often feature serrated edges towards the back of the blade that can be used for sawing rope or wood.
Some of them come with bonus features built-in, like glass breakers or seatbelt cutters that are useful in an emergency.
While a survival pocket knife doesn’t function like a full toolbox, it’s still prepared to have your back when a crisis occurs.
A Self Defense Pocket Knife
If you’re looking for the best self-defense pocket knife, you want something that’s compact and easy to carry with you.
Self-defense pocket knives are perfect for people who have to walk alone at night, or people who work in rough areas of a city.
They offer you a little peace of mind by making you feel a little bit safer.
These pocket knives are ideal for people who like to have a backup plan and are a great supplement to tools like a pepper spray keychain or a small Taser.
The reason for having your pocket knife, whether that be for hunting or for self-defense reasons, lead us to the next point – how often do you plan to use this knife?
How Often Will You Use Your Pocket Knife?
A pocket knife that’s only going to see occasional use doesn’t need to be as durable as a pocket knife you’re going to use on a daily basis.
Understanding this difference can help you find the best value pocket knife that will meet all of your criteria.
Every Day
A knife you’re going to use every day needs to be exceptionally durable. You want something that securely closes and stays closed.
You need something that will be made of strong materials, making it easy to sharpen and hone when it gets dull.
It’s worth spending a little more on a pocket knife that you know will see a lot of use.
If you want a knife that is always there for you, take a look at some of the best boot knives or the best bowie knives we have reviewed.
On Special Occasions
Pocket knives you know you’re only going to use on special occasions, such as survival knives you’ve purchased for hunting, camping or fishing trips, only need to be durable enough to get the job done when you need it done.
The same goes for self-defense pocket knives. In an ideal world, you’ll only carry a self-defense pocket knife around with you without ever needing to use it.
These knives won’t require maximum durability, because infrequent usage will cause them to obtain wear and tear much slower.
The Difference Between a Good Pocket Knife and the Best Pocket Knife
Before we show you the specific bullet points that you need to keep in mind when purchasing the best knife for your needs, let’s look at a general description.
The true marks of a quality pocket knife can be difficult to distinguish. The line that separates an average pocket knife from top-rated pocket knives is a very fine one.
Knowing what to look for can help you determine which pocket knives are truly good, and which ones are simply good enough.
Good Pocket Knives
All that a good pocket knife needs to have is at least one blade and a reliable handle. If the blade folds, you’ll want something with a secure locking mechanism.
Most good pocket knives feature spring-assist opening mechanisms.
This knife will only be a knife, intended mostly for the purpose of cutting things. This knife will help you open a parcel you’ve received in the mail, or cut an apple when you need a snack.
It won’t do much more than that, but if you prefer to keep things simple, this is all you’ll need.
The Best Pocket Knives
The best pocket knives will function as more than just a knife. You’ll be able to use them as tools, and you’ll find yourself reaching for them quite often.
These knives are often designed to be lightweight and convenient. Some of them even feature attachments you may not expect, like screwdrivers or corkscrews.
The Best Pocket Knife for You
Now, let’s look at the key specifics to qualify your chosen knife as the best pocket knife.
Why settle for something when you can have the right pocket knife for your needs? What is the best pocket knife for you in the first place?
We put a heavy emphasis on your needs because there’s no such thing as the absolute best pocket knife.
You can have a pocket knife with multiple blades, but unless you’re able to utilize all the blades it’s just a pocket knife with excess weight.
On the other hand, a long-bladed knife can cut through a lot of stuff, but it could be too large to carry around at all times, while a short-bladed one might be too small if you want to cut thick material or if you plan on using it for self-defense.
The proper approach to picking the best pocket knives is to start by understanding the characteristics that define each of them.
This may seem confusing at first so we came up with a list of knife properties that can help you decide according to your preferences.
We also made a list of top-rated pocket knives that can be considered generally safe choices in case you’re not sure of what to buy.
1. Number of Blades
You can choose between single-blade variants and multi-blade variants
Single-blade
Because there’s only one blade, most of the weight is allotted to bigger, larger blades.
Single-blade knives can afford to have thicker, stronger components (especially important with locking mechanisms) and they also have enough room for other opening mechanisms.
The catch? You’re stuck with just one blade so you don’t get a lot of variety.
Multi-blade
Multi-blade variants that get good pocket knife reviews generally have two to four blades. This means you can use it for more applications like using one blade for wood and another for slicing meat.
However, the more blades there are the less overall blade strength.
Since being portable is important, most multi-blade designs do not have springs or strong locking mechanisms. If you value variety over sheer strength, go for multi-blade pocket knives.
You can also find pocket knives with extra attachments other than blades. The most popular of these are multi-tools and Swiss Army knives.
Of course, having more features mean the knife has to compromise between overall weight, versatility, and blade strength, so the best pocket knife for you would be something that would strike the perfect balance between all three.
2. Edge
The next thing you’d want to consider is the edge of your pocket knife, especially if you picked a single-blade variant.
You can choose between plain edge, serrated, and a combination of the two.
Plain
Characterized by a continuous edge, this is as basic as it gets. Plain edge knives excel at making clean cuts, which is important when you need lots of precision like slicing through delicate materials such as meat or fruit.
A plain edge knife is also a lot easier to sharpen, although it doesn’t work that well when used to cut rope or other tougher materials.
Serrated
The serrations on a blade put more pressure on the material you’re trying to cut. That means the best pocket knife for general use outdoors would be a serrated edge knife that can easily slice through sticks, hard rubber, or other tough things you might need to cut outdoors.
However, it does tend to make jagged cuts, and sharpening the blade is a lot of work.
Combination
Some people prefer the precision of plain edges and the ruggedness of a serrated edge in the same knife, which is why partially-serrated or combination-edged are popular.
However, you have to be careful when picking a combination edge since the serrations may be located somewhere along the blade where they can’t be fully utilized.
3. Blade Size
Blade sizes greatly differ from pocket knife to pocket knife, and the best one for you greatly depends on what you expect to use it for most of the time.
Small blades (2.75 inches and shorter)
These ones are extremely portable and are good enough to carry almost anywhere. You won’t have any trouble with the law because small blades are considered safe by most knife laws.
Its main downside is that small blades don’t work that well beyond being used for opening boxes or cutting thin materials.
Medium blades (2.75 to 4 inches)
While still small enough to pass most knife laws, a medium blade knife can afford to have a longer blade and feature stronger locking mechanisms.
Many consider medium-length knives as the “sweet spot” between versatility and portability.
Large blades (anything longer than 4 inches)
If you want raw cutting power, a large blade knife is your best pocket knife.
Providing almost the same strength and cutting ability as a fixed knife, large blades also have that “intimidation factor” that makes them great for self-defense.
The main downside?
A large blade knife can be too heavy and bulky to be a practical option to carry around all day.
However, some of the most impressive-looking knives feature large blades, making them a perfect if you’re just after something to display.
4. Blade Style
There are several blade styles or shapes available, each with its own strong points. Here’s a quick list of them and what they’re mostly good for to help you find the best pocket knife depending on what you intend to use them for.
- Clip point – Great for making piercing or slicing cuts, general purpose.
- Drop point – Another all-purpose style, but excels in skinning.
- Straight back – Excellent for chopping or slicing.
- Needlepoint – Best for piercing, but not much for anything else. Great for self-defense.
- Spearpoint – Could be single or double-edged. Used for piercing and slicing.
- Tanto – Ideal for push cuts. Primary option for piercing through tougher materials
- Sheepsfoot – Great for cutting and slicing. Very safe design for beginners
- Trailing point – Another style meant for slicing, great cutting area but the lightweight design allows easy skinning or meat slicing.
- Pen blade – Not as sharp as other styles. Mostly used for small crafts.
- Wharncliffe – Similar to Sheepsfoot, but is better at carving on hard material and making general cuts.
- Spey-point – Broad, straight edge mostly used for skinning furry game.
- Hawkbill – Inward shape limits versatility, but is great for opening boxes or cutting ropes, or stripping wires.
5. Opening Mechanism
The best pocket knife allows you to easily bring out or put away the blade; it’s the one thing that makes it different from other kinds of knives.
Here’s a quick look at the different pocket knife mechanisms that you may choose.
Manual
The manual mechanism lets you bring out the blade by using your own hands, usually using a small nick on the blade where you can pick the blade with your nail or with a small stud that can be pushed using your thumb.
Switchblade
Brings out the blade by pushing a button or switch on the handle. This is one of the more controversial mechanisms since some areas still deem switchblades illegal.
Otherwise, it’s a great mechanism for quickly exposing the blade with one hand.
Assisted Opener
Assisted opening knives are like switchblades, but generally, require more force to bring out the blade. Assisted openers are much safer than switchblades because there’s less risk of them accidentally opening.
6. Locking Mechanism
Aside from the opening mechanism, different pocket knives also have different mechanisms designed to keep the blade in its proper position once drawn out.
- Liner lock – the most basic and common mechanism, part of the liner is angled toward the blade, keeping the blade from swiveling back to a closed position.
- Slip joint – The blade stays in place because of tension from a spring. With some force, the blade either snaps open or swings shut.
- Lockback – A locking arm is pushed into a notch to keep the blade in place. One of the earliest locking mechanisms.
- Mid Lock – Similar to Lockbacks, except the release is located in the middle of the handle instead of at the end.
- Frame lock – Similar to the liner lock, but also tends to “snap the blade” open with some pressure.
- Ring lock – A metal ring with a small break wraps around the pivot of the blade. Once the blade passes through the small break, the ring can be turned, keeping the blade from returning to a closed position.
- Lever Lock – Features a pin near the pivot that goes through a hole in the base of the blade. Once the pin is pushed through the hole, the blade is firmly locked in place.
Ready to start your search for the best pocket knife?
How to Take Care of Your Pocket Knife
If you want your pocket knife to last a long time, you’ll need to take care of it the right way. This means regularly sharpening your blade, rather than waiting for it to become completely dull before touching it up. And yes, learning the best way to sharpen a pocket knife is crucial.
Always hone the fine blades of a pocket knife – running them through the coarse slot of a knife sharpener without honing them can make the knife brittle.
Some pocket knives with assisted opening mechanisms or internal locks have screws that keep them together.
You’ll want to check these screws every few weeks to make sure they’re good and tight. If you don’t the knife may fall apart on you, which is dangerous if that happens while you’re using it.
Since most pocket knives aren’t designed to be used in all weather circumstances, they’re almost never coated with a weatherproofing material.
This means they’re prone to rust, and you shouldn’t allow gunk or moisture to accumulate on the blade. Always clean and thoroughly dry your blade before you put it away, especially if it has come into contact with anything wet or dirty.
TOP 21 Best Pocket Knives Reviewed 2024
Gerber EAB Pocket Knife
The Gerber EAB may look more like a glorified box cutter than a proper pocket knife, but a look at pocket knife reviews about it will give you an idea of the sheer utility it provides.
EAB means Exchange-A-Blade, which means the pocket knife’s blade can be replaced once it’s worn out.
At 2.2 ounces, this is one of the lightest pocket knives on this list. The EAB is small and light enough to be carried all day, and the clip also has the added bonus that it can be used as a money clip.
Despite its small size, the grip and the blade guard make it a lot more ergonomic than it looks.
Pros
- Replaceable blades.
- Lightweight and very compact.
- Very affordable.
- The clip can also serve as a money clip.
Cons
- The smooth handle may feel slippery especially with sweaty hands.
- The knife can be too small for people with large hands.
Gerber Paraframe Mini Knife
This knife comes in three sizes-small, medium, and large. Most people would prefer the small as an ideally sized pocket knife.
It features the traditional tanto point and a simple metal frame that’s held together by screws and bolts.
It’s easy to maintain this knife with nothing more than a reliable knife sharpener and a screwdriver.
If you take care of it well, you’ll be surprised how long it lasts.
Pros
- The blade is coated in black titanium nitride, which prevents it from corroding over time. Damage from water or regular campsite tasks won’t destroy the finish of the blade.
- The blade features two thumb studs, which make it easy to open the blade with one hand. This is great for people who are left-handed and may have trouble with other easy-access pocket knives.
- Since the frame is open, it won’t accumulate things like water or sap on the inside. All of the components are exposed to air, allowing them to dry and preventing rust.
Cons
- The blade is only 2.13 inches. This is large enough for most tasks, but it may not double well as an impromptu hunting knife or a survival knife at its modest size.
Gerber STL 2.0 Knife
This is more than just a traditional folding pocket knife. It’s designed more like a utility knife, and it’s the kind of blade you’ll want to take with you everywhere.
The 2.1-inch blade is the right length for performing a variety of everyday tasks.
You can do everything from open packaging to cutting wires, thanks to the combination of the razor-like cutting edge and sharp point.
Pros
- The blade features a sizeable cutout that will allow you to open it with a single hand.
- This is one of the most lightweight pocket knives you’re going to find, weighing in at 1 ounce.
- 440A stainless steel crafted blade is easy to keep sharp and won’t chip.
Cons
- Unlike many other folding pocket knives, this one doesn’t feature a serrated edge.
Kershaw 1990 Brawler Speedsafe Folding Knife
One of the top-rated pocket knives online, the Kershaw Brawler features a modified Tanto edge designed for heavy outdoor applications.
If you want something that you expect to use for moderate cutting tasks ranging from opening cardboard boxes to cutting thick ropes when outdoors, this mid-sized knife is a good first pick.
Despite its ruggedness, the Brawler is lightweight and easy to carry. Its 3.25-inch blade tucks neatly into a 4-inch handle and weighs just under 4 ounces.
You can carry this high-quality pocket knife discretely and ready in case you need it.
Pros
- Fits almost anywhere.
- Easy to maintain.
- Reliable opening and locking mechanism.
Cons
- Soft steel will wear down with constant use.
- Not as suitable for the heaviest cutting tasks.
Kershaw 1605CKTST Clash Folding Knife with SpeedSafe
This is a folding pocket knife, and it will make the perfect addition to your tool belt or tackle box.
It’s compact and simple, designed to perform only the basic tasks you would require from a pocket knife.
It’s a straight blade with a drop point and a serrated back, allowing you to easily alternate between slicing and sawing motions.
This is a great pocket knife for a camper or a fisherman, thanks to its durable simplicity.
Pros
- This knife’s speed-safe assisted opening is great for those who want to be able to quickly access their knives but question the durability of spring assisted opening systems.
- It locks securely closed and won’t open in your pocket or on your belt, and you can pop it right up in a jiffy.
- The handle is made of glass-filled nylon. This gives it a substantial weight and great balance in the hand. You can squeeze it as hard as you can and there won’t be any give. There’s no plastic that can be cracked, and it only features a few screws for easier maintenance.
- The pocket clip is fully reversible, so you can either store this knife tip down or tip-up. It’s easy to flip the clip yourself and customize the way you’d like your knife set up.
Cons
- This knife doesn’t come with any built-in special features or tools like bottle openers or glass breakers. If you’re not looking for something fancy and complicated, you probably won’t consider this to be a con.
Kershaw 1555TI Cryo SpeedSafe Folding Knife
The Kershaw Cryo features the same speed-safe opening mechanism as the Brawler, but that’s where the similarities end.
The Cryo features a shorter 2.75″ drop point blade and a stout, stainless steel handle.
The result is a stylish, stocky (but still lightweight) blade that’s good for everyday use.
The Cryo’s gray matte finish looks gorgeous, and the assisted opening mechanism makes it easier to bring out its blade.
This is a big plus since most small knives with manual opening mechanisms can be difficult to open. It also features a special pocket clip that is easy to attach and remove.
Pros
- Drop point blade works well on leather and cardboard.
- The pocket clip is easy to attach and remove.
- Attractive gray finish.
Cons
- Heavy considering its size.
- Thumb studs are almost useless; it could lose it to save on weight.
Kershaw Leek Knife
Easily one of the top-rated pocket knives, the Kershaw Leek combines form and function you’d only expect on more expensive knives.
The slender drop point blade and thin handle present a very slim profile that not only looks good but also allows a high degree of portability without compromising ergonomics.
The leek boasts excellent build quality, is capable of holding its edge, and rugged enough to withstand getting dropped multiple times.
It’s also easy to use since its assisted-opening mechanism can be used with your thumb or index finger. It is considered the best quality pocket knife by some because of this mix of form and function.
Pros
- Elegant design.
- Easy to conceal.
- Easy to use.
- Excellent value; could be mistaken for a high-end knife.
Cons
- Thin handle may cause hand strain after extended use.
- No other downsides worth listing.
Master USA MU-A002 Spring Assisted Folding Knife
This knife is very simple, but that’s exactly why it’s one of the best pocket knives to use for self-defense.
The blade itself is 3.25 inches, and the whole knife is 4 and a half inches when it’s completely closed, making it easy to slide it right into your pocket.
It also features a pocket clip that will keep it from moving around or falling out of your pocket.
It comes in different colors that are all easy to spot if you need to grab this knife out of your hiking bag or glovebox in a hurry.
Pros
- The spring-assisted opening feature keeps the knife securely closed while making it easy to access in a hurry. If you only have a few seconds to get to your pocket, the spring assist kicks in once the knife is about a quarter of the way open, so you won’t need to fuss with the locking mechanism.
- This is a simple knife and it’s perfect for what you’ll need to use it for. It’s much less expensive than a knife that’s designed for everyday usage, and it’s reliable enough to help you defend yourself against an attacker should you ever find yourself in an unfortunate situation.
- The price point and simple features make this a great first knife.
Cons
- Not intended to be used as a versatile tool. If you want a knife for hunting, fishing, camping, or hiking, you’ll need to supplement this knife with other tools. This knife is very inexpensive, as it’s only designed to do one thing.
MTech USA Ballistic MT-A705 Spring Assist Folding Knife
This pocket knife is surprisingly versatile and great to look at. MTech makes all kinds of knives, but this is their frontrunner in the pocket knife arena.
This style features a 3.75-inch blade with a 3 mm thickness, so you can be sure that it’s sturdy enough to work without bending or chipping.
The casing features an ergonomic grip as well as a pocket clip for the convenience of the user.
Pros
- This knife comes in both a straight blade version and a version where the back of the knife is serrated. You can have whichever you prefer. You won’t have to deal with sharpening serrations if you don’t need them, and you won’t have to settle for a straight blade when you want to be able to saw cut with the knife.
- Blades come in a wide variety of colors, so they’re just as functional as they are fashionable.
- The casing doesn’t contain any plastic parts that will break for crack with frequent use.
- The handle incorporates a bottle opener and a glass breaker.
- The blade features a cutout that makes the knife easy to open, as well as a spring-assisted opening mechanism.
- The blade is made of stainless steel, and the casing is made of titanium-coated aluminum.
Cons
- The liner lock is very secure, but may sometimes be difficult to open. You’ll need to break it in before it moves smoothly. Ultimately, it’s better to have the best liner lock available – even if it does take some getting used to. Bear with it.
- No serrated edges on this blade.
MTech USA MT-A882 Series Spring Assist Folding Knife
This is the perfect mini folding pocket knife for someone who needs a tool that can be used as a utility.
This is perfect for people who work in a warehouse or need to process a lot of cardboard.
Its compact size also makes it a convenient pocket knife for self-defense. The 3-inch blade is the perfect size for many different tasks – including fishing.
Pros
- Handle features an excellent tactile grip to prevent the knife from sliding out of your hand.
- The blade comes in your choice of 6 different colored finishes from plain silver all the way to vibrant teal.
- The blade is 3.25 millimeters thick, making it a breeze to sharpen and nearly impossible to break.
Cons
- The opening mechanism is a little bulky.
Schrade Imperial IMP16S Stockman Folding Pocket Knife
There are plenty of reasons to love this pocket knife – the gray swirled pearl handle is just one of them.
It’s a compact profile folding knife that fits right in the palm of your hand and features three versatile multi-use attachments.
You’re getting 3 attachments, including a spay blade with nail pulls and a 2.5-inch sheepsfoot blade.
Pros
- The handle features heavy-duty brass bolsters, and the springs are heat treated. They can last an eternity when properly maintained.
- This knife comes with multiple blades designed for multiple tasks. You aren’t stuck with a single blade that you’ll need to make the most of.
- The blades are crafted from 400 series stainless steel. When they become dull, they’re easy to sharpen without causing the blades to become brittle.
Cons
- Since this knife is made of the most durable available materials, it’s a little on the heavier side.
Schrade Imperial IMP16T Trapper Folding Pocket Knife
This is a little more compact than the Stockman, making it the ideal choice for people who don’t want something fancy.
You’re getting a spay blade with nail pulls and the signature imperial handle, which looks like fine marble.
The longest blade is 2.7 inches, making it the ideal size for everyday carry while still being large enough to actually be useful.
Pros
- Construction is built to last. The casing is held together securely with industrial-strength brass pins, and the tools are affixed with the highest quality springs, which have been heat-treated.
- The ergonomically shaped handle makes this knife easy to grip.
- Blade points are small enough for detail work, like wood carving.
Cons
- Blades are thick and only come at standard sharpness. You’ll need to regularly sharpen them to maintain an edge.
Smith & Wesson SWMP4LS M&P Linerlock Knife
Most people associate Smith & Wesson with firearms, but they also happen to make some of the best pocket knives today.
The Linerlock knife features the Multi-purpose Assisted Generational Innovative Cutlery or MAGIC assisted opening technology that allows you to draw the blade at the push of a button.
Despite the mechanism, the knife only weighs 7.5 ounces which means you’ll barely notice it even if you carry it all day.
As a tactical pocket knife, the Linerlock focuses greatly on versatility. The 3.6-inch blade is partially serrated, allowing it to cut through tougher materials without sacrificing the precision of a plain edge.
Another important feature found in the liner lock is the glass breaker tool, making it a favorite of EMTs and patrolmen, as well as considered by many as the best survival pocket knife.
Pros
- Stylish appearance.
- A combination edge is invaluable for outdoor usage.
- Built-in glass breaker tool for emergencies.
- Robust overall design.
Cons
- Some people prefer something that requires less force to open.
Stanley 10-049 Pocket Knife
The best everyday pocket knife doesn’t have to be the most expensive one out there.
The Stanley 10-049 may not have fancy opening mechanisms, but the simple design and replaceable blades make it a reliable everyday cutting tool.
Furthermore, it’s one of the cheapest knives you can get online.
The Stanley 10-049 is as straightforward as a pocket knife can get. A manual opening mechanism makes it easy to open and a lock-back mechanism does a great job at making sure it stays in place.
Pros
- Can be considered the best value pocket knife.
- Replaceable blades.
- Simple but effective overall design.
Cons
- Some may find the appearance too plain.
- Blades are not as strong as other blades in the list.
Tac Force Assisted Opening Rescue Knife
This folding knife features a Punisher-inspired theme and a predominantly matte black finish, giving it an aggressive look.
The 4.5″ stainless steel blade makes it an ideal option for general use, but more importantly, it’s thick enough to let you work on tougher materials such as wood and thick rope.
Whether you’re looking for a great addition to your collection or looking for a dependable tool for backpacking and other outdoor activities, you can’t go wrong with this knife.
Its intimidating appearance also makes it one of the best self-defense pocket knives you can find online.
Pros
- Quick opening spring assist mechanism.
- Durable blade works on almost anything.
- Decent value considering its price.
Cons
- Some prefer a more simple design.
- Locking mechanism could use some improvement.
TAC Force TF-469 Gentleman’s Assisted Opening Folding Knife
It’s hard to find a good gentleman’s pocket knife these days – they just don’t make them the same way they used to.
This particular knife features all of the hallmarks of a classic gentleman’s knife, but it is made using modern technology. You’re even getting a handle with a genuine pakkawood handle inlay.
Pros
- Spring-assisted opening and liner lock closure make this knife easy to access and safe to close.
- The stainless steel blade is coated in black, keeping the blade looking nicer for longer while warding off stains from things like tree sap.
- Pocket clip built onto the back of the knife makes this blade easy to carry.
Cons
- The knife doesn’t come with any serrated edges or special features.
TAC Force TF-705 Series Assisted Opening Tactical Folding Knife
This knife is the perfect balance between a pocket knife and a tactical knife, making it an easy choice for people who want to use their pocket knife for survival-related tasks.
This knife is made of durable, solid metal construction. The blade itself features both a drop tip and a serrated back.
If you need to cut through a seatbelt or perform a similar task, you’ll appreciate the variety of cutting surfaces.
Pros
- Back of the knife features both a bottle opener and a glass breaker. Bottle openers are always handy to have around, and a glass breaker can become a convenient accessory in the event of an emergency.
- The saw back of the knife is substantial, and is part of the reason that this knife is as versatile as it is. This feature is now only handy for sawing through things – you’ll also appreciate it in the event that you need to catch and prepare a fish.
- The knife comes in 8 different finishes, including the popular rainbow blade finish. Since there’s such a wide variety, it’s easier to find a knife that you actually like the appearance of.
Cons
- The metal casing features a lot of screws, which makes it a little more time-consuming to maintain the knife. You’ll have to regularly check and tighten these screws with frequent use.
TAC Force TF-707 Series Assisted Opening Folding Knife
The unique design of this handle makes it easy to see why TAC Force is one of the top pocket knife brands.
This knife is completely functional and easy to use, but its main selling point is the ornate handle inlay that features a dragon.
You’re getting the high-powered performance of a TAC Force knife in a case that’s stylish and unique.
Pros
- The spring-assist opening makes it easy to flip this knife open with one hand.
- The back of the handle features a glass breaker. You never know when you’ll find yourself in an emergency when you need one of these.
- One side of the blade is straight and the other side is serrated. They come together at a fine spear point. This allows you to get maximum function out of a single tool.
Cons
- Since the blade is a unique shape and it locks closed with a liner lock, it can sometimes be tricky to close securely.
Victorinox Swiss Army Huntsman Pocket Knife
Victorinox makes some of the best-rated pocket knives, and one look at the Huntsman makes it clear exactly why people love these so much.
Victorinox has been making pocket knives for a very long time, and they continue to innovate their products.
This particular knife features 15 functions, making it perfect for everyday carry. It’s everything you’ll ever use rolled into a single pocket knife.
Pros
- Features 3 blades, including one serrated blade for sawing through things like rope, leather, or other tough materials. Though the longest blade is still not very long by traditional pocket knife standards, it’s still enough to get the job done.
- Also comes with scissors, a can opener, a bottle opener, a wire stripper, a corkscrew, and a parcel hook. The ends of some of these attachments function as screwdrivers. You can practically build furniture with this knife.
- Comes in multiple colors, allowing you to customize your knife. If multiple people live in your house and everyone wants the same knife, it’s easy to tell which one belongs to who. This is also useful if you work with other people who carry pocket knives, especially because you won’t have to worry that your coworker will walk away with yours by accident.
Cons
- Swiss Army knives have a tendency to be a little heavier than regular pocket knives, mostly because of the number of tools they contain. This one is in the mid-weight range, and you might be able to feel the heft in your pocket.
Victorinox Swiss Army Tinker Pocket Knife
The tinker knife is designed in a way that anyone can use it. The Super Tinker comes with 14 useful functions that can help you accomplish basic tasks.
Among these attachments are a screwdriver, a can opener, a pair of scissors, wire strippers, and two blades.
Pros
- This pocket knife is made of stainless steel, so it’s easy to clean and easy to sharpen.
- This is just as useful at a campsite as it is for performing repairs around the house.
- Puts the most important parts of a toolbox right in your pocket.
Cons
- Since the tool is so compact, it can sometimes be difficult to pull the tools out of the casing until you’ve broken in the knife.
Winchester 2.5 Brass Folding Knife
If you want a classic-looking pocket knife then the Winchester Brass Folding Knife is a great choice.
A quick glance at this pocket knife and the first thing you will notice are the handle’s wood inlays and brass bolsters – a fine change from today’s matte finish knives.
We wouldn’t consider it as one of the best pocket knives if it didn’t have a good blade. The 2.5″ stainless surgical steel blade is just the right size for general cutting purposes, and it does not rust like carbon steel blades.
The knife’s plain edge also makes this blast from the past easy to maintain.
Pros
- One of the top-rated knives with a classic look and feel.
- Simple design that’s easy to use.
- Easily one of the best-looking knives; perfect for collectors.
- The stainless steel blade is low-maintenance and good enough for everyday purposes.
Cons
- Not designed for heavy cutting tasks.
- No pocket clip.
Deciding on the Perfect Pocket Knife
Hopefully, you’re one step closer to choosing the best pocket knife.
One of these excellent top-rated pocket knives is sure to become the best knife you own.
Nobody understands your lifestyle better than you do, and it’s easy to tell how all of the pocket knives mentioned will perform under different conditions.
Think about what you do and which knife would make it easier, and that’s the best way to come to your final decision.
Remember that there are a lot more options available out there.
If you’re looking for the best pocket knife for you, try local knife stores and online shopping sites, keep in mind the best knife brands we mentioned. They’re a good way to navigate in the large market of pocket knives.
Look for pocket knife reviews for even more recommendations.
With a bit of research and perseverance, you’re bound to come across a pocket knife that’s well worth your purchase.
Didn’t find what you were looking for? You might be interested in one or more of the best throwing knives we have reviewed.