Folding pocket knives are versatile tools that can be used for a variety of tasks, from opening boxes to carving wood. They are compact and easy to carry, making them a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and everyday carry (EDC) enthusiasts. When it comes to finding the best folding pocket knife, there are several factors to consider.
One of the most important things to consider when purchasing a folding pocket knife is the blade. The blade should be made from high-quality steel that is durable and holds an edge well. The size and shape of the blade will also depend on the intended use of the knife. A smaller blade may be better for everyday tasks, while a larger blade may be necessary for more heavy-duty tasks.
Another important factor to consider is the handle of the knife. The handle should be comfortable to hold and provide a good grip, even in wet or slippery conditions. The material of the handle can vary, from traditional materials like wood and bone to newer materials like G-10 and carbon fiber.
Other factors to consider when purchasing a folding pocket knife include the locking mechanism, weight, and overall size of the knife. A good locking mechanism is essential for safety, while a lightweight and compact design will make the knife easier to carry.
After researching and testing several folding pocket knives, we have identified the top options for those looking for the best combination of durability, functionality, and affordability.
Top 3 Best Folding Pocket Knives
2. CIVIVI Folding Pocket Knife
3. Buck Knives 284 Bantam One-Hand Opening Folding Knife
We understand the importance of having a reliable folding pocket knife that you can carry with you wherever you go. Whether you need it for camping, hiking, or everyday use, a good folding pocket knife is an essential tool. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best folding pocket knives available. Our selection includes knives that are durable, versatile, and offer excellent value for their price. So, whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or just looking for a reliable everyday carry knife, we’ve got you covered.
GVDV Pocket Folding Knife
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable folding pocket knife, the GVDV Pocket Folding Knife is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 7Cr17 stainless steel blades provide excellent cutting performance and corrosion resistance.
- The wooden handle design is ergonomic, comfortable to use, and looks great.
- The knife is easy to carry with its lightweight and portable design, as well as the convenient belt clip.
Cons
- The blade may be difficult to open initially.
- The pocket clip may occasionally get stuck on pockets.
- The knife is a bit bulky compared to other folding pocket knives.
We were impressed with the GVDV Pocket Folding Knife’s quality and value. The blades are sharp and durable, and the wooden handle provides a comfortable grip. It’s easy to carry around with you, and the locking mechanism provides added safety.
One minor issue we had was that the blade was a bit difficult to open initially, but it became smoother with use. Additionally, the pocket clip may occasionally get stuck on pockets, but this is a minor inconvenience.
Overall, the GVDV Pocket Folding Knife is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable folding pocket knife. It’s versatile and can be used for a wide range of activities, from camping and hiking to everyday use.
CIVIVI Folding Pocket Knife- Praxis Flipper Liner Lock Knife
If you’re looking for a practical folding knife that is perfect for everyday use, the CIVIVI Folding Pocket Knife- Praxis Flipper Liner Lock Knife is a great option.
Pros
- The knife action is strong and decisive, allowing for easy use in all sorts of piercing tasks.
- The lightweight cuibourtia wood handle scales feel wonderful in your hand, providing a secure grip.
- The ball bearings in the pivot allow the blade to open smoothly, making it easy to use with one hand.
Cons
- The knife is not small, which can make it difficult to carry in your pocket.
- The blade may require regular sharpening to maintain its sharpness.
- The cuibourtia wood handle scales may not be as durable as other materials.
This knife is a great option for anyone who needs a reliable folding knife for everyday use. The blade is thin and sharp, making it perfect for piercing tasks, while the handle feels great in your hand. The ball bearings in the pivot allow the blade to open smoothly, making it easy to use with one hand.
The knife is not small, which can make it difficult to carry in your pocket. Additionally, the blade may require regular sharpening to maintain its sharpness. Finally, the cuibourtia wood handle scales may not be as durable as other materials.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable folding knife for everyday use, the CIVIVI Folding Pocket Knife- Praxis Flipper Liner Lock Knife is definitely worth considering.
Buck Knives 284 Bantam One-Hand Opening Folding Knife
If you’re looking for a reliable folding pocket knife that’s easy to use and lightweight, the Buck Knives 284 Bantam One-Hand Opening Folding Knife might be the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- The 420HC steel blade is razor sharp and lightweight, making it easy to handle and perfect for everyday use.
- The thumb stud on the blade makes it easy to open the knife with one hand, and the lock back mechanism ensures that the blade stays securely in place while you work.
- The finger swells in the grip make it easy to hold the knife and provide a sure grip in any condition.
Cons
- The knife can be slow to open with one hand, and the blade can get stuck halfway if you’re not careful.
- The handle is made of glass reinforced nylon, which may not be as durable as other materials.
- The knife may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks, as it is designed for everyday use.
Overall, we think the Buck Knives 284 Bantam One-Hand Opening Folding Knife is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable, lightweight, and easy-to-use folding pocket knife. It’s perfect for everyday tasks, and the razor-sharp blade ensures that you’ll be able to handle anything that comes your way.
NedFoss Pocket Folding Knife DA75
If you’re looking for a reliable folding knife that can handle a variety of tasks, the NedFoss Pocket Folding Knife DA75 is a great option.
Pros
- The 8Cr14Mov blade is sharp and strong, providing excellent cutting performance and corrosion resistance.
- The G10 and aluminum handle has an ergonomic design that feels great in your hand.
- The knife is easy to carry with the convenient pocket clip, and features a seatbelt cutter and glass breaker for emergencies.
Cons
- The blade may need frequent sharpening with heavy use.
- The handle may be too large for those with smaller hands.
- The knife may be heavier than other pocket knives.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the NedFoss Pocket Folding Knife DA75 and were impressed with its quality and versatility. The blade is sharp and strong, making it easy to cut through a variety of materials. The handle has a nice weight to it and feels great in your hand, with an ergonomic design that makes it comfortable to hold for extended periods of time.
One of the standout features of this knife is its ease of use. The thumb stud opening makes it easy to quickly access the blade, while the seatbelt cutter and glass breaker are convenient tools to have in case of an emergency. The pocket clip is also a nice touch, making it easy to carry the knife with you wherever you go.
Overall, we highly recommend the NedFoss Pocket Folding Knife DA75 for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile folding knife. Whether you’re using it for camping, hiking, or everyday tasks, this knife is sure to get the job done.
Kershaw Grid Folding Pocket Knife
If you’re looking for a folding pocket knife that’s both practical and stylish, the Kershaw Grid Folding Pocket Knife might be the one for you.
Pros
- The blade is a modified drop-point, which provides a strong tip for practicalities like piercing, yet the blade also has enough belly to offer excellent slicing capabilities.
- The handle is pure steel, which gives it a handsome grey titanium carbo-nitride coating and a comfortable in-hand feel.
- The knife features an assisted opening, locking frame, and reversible pocket clip, making it easy to use and carry.
Cons
- The knife is heavier than some other folding pocket knives, weighing in at 5.3 ounces.
- The solid metal handle makes it heavier than needed.
- The factory sharpening was not impressive, so you may need to resharpen it to get it truly sharp.
We’ve found that the Kershaw Grid Folding Pocket Knife is a reliable and versatile tool that’s perfect for everyday use. The blade is sharp and durable, and the handle is comfortable to hold. The assisted opening and locking frame make it easy to use, and the reversible pocket clip means you can carry it in your pocket or on your belt.
The knife is a bit heavier than some other folding pocket knives, but we feel that the weight is worth it for the durability and strength of the knife. The solid metal handle can make it a bit heavier than needed, but it also gives the knife a sleek and stylish look.
Overall, we think the Kershaw Grid Folding Pocket Knife is a great choice for anyone in need of a reliable and practical folding pocket knife. With its sharp blade, comfortable handle, and easy-to-use features, it’s sure to become your go-to tool for everyday tasks.
CIVIVI Mini Praxis Folding Pocket Knife
If you’re looking for a reliable folding pocket knife that’s perfect for everyday carry, then the CIVIVI Mini Praxis Folding Pocket Knife is worth considering.
Pros
- The D2 steel blade is durable and retains its edge well.
- The G10 handle is comfortable to grip and resistant to moisture and temperature changes.
- The ceramic ball-bearing pivot construction ensures smooth and fast operation.
Cons
- The blade length may be too short for some users.
- The pocket clip may not be as sturdy as some other models.
- The handle may be too small for users with larger hands.
We’ve been using the CIVIVI Mini Praxis Folding Pocket Knife for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The D2 steel blade is sharp and durable, making it ideal for everyday use. The G10 handle is comfortable to grip, and the knife feels well-balanced in the hand.
One of the standout features of the Mini Praxis is its ceramic ball-bearing pivot construction. This allows for quick and snappy one-handed flipper deployment and smooth closing action. The detent is strong, ensuring that the knife will maintain crisp, snappy action for a lifetime of use.
The Mini Praxis is also lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry in your pocket or backpack. It’s perfect for a variety of uses, including camping, hiking, and everyday carry.
Overall, we would recommend the CIVIVI Mini Praxis Folding Pocket Knife to anyone looking for a reliable, high-quality folding pocket knife. It’s well-made, easy to use, and built to last.
GOOD WORKER Folding Pocket Knife
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile folding pocket knife, the GOOD WORKER Folding Pocket Knife is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The serrated blade is sharp and sturdy, making it perfect for a variety of tasks.
- The glass breaker and strap cutter are useful features in emergency situations.
- The knife is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
Cons
- The handle may be a bit too small for people with larger hands.
- The knife may be difficult to open and close for those who are not familiar with liner lock knives.
- The pocket clip may not be as sturdy as some users would like.
We were impressed with the GOOD WORKER Folding Pocket Knife’s performance during our testing. The serrated blade made quick work of cutting through various materials, and the glass breaker and strap cutter were handy features to have in emergency situations. The knife is also compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around in a pocket or backpack.
However, the handle may be a bit too small for people with larger hands, and the knife may be difficult to open and close for those who are not familiar with liner lock knives. Additionally, the pocket clip may not be as sturdy as some users would like.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and versatile folding pocket knife, the GOOD WORKER Folding Pocket Knife is definitely worth considering. It’s perfect for EDC, camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities, and it also makes a great gift for any occasion.
CIVIVI Pocket Folding Knife
If you’re looking for a reliable and stylish pocket knife, the CIVIVI Pocket Folding Knife is a great option.
Pros
- The 14C28N Blade is high-performance and offers outstanding corrosion resistance, edge retention, and effortless cutting.
- The innovative bottle opener allows for quick and easy bottle opening, making it a great addition to any everyday carry.
- The knife features a button lock and thumb stud opener, providing you with two effortless and efficient ways to open it.
Cons
- The folding knife is not as durable as some other models on the market.
- The pocket clip may be too tight for some users.
- The aluminum handle may be slippery when wet.
We’ve tested out the CIVIVI Pocket Folding Knife and found it to be a solid choice for those in need of a reliable pocket knife. The 14C28N Blade is high-performance and offers outstanding corrosion resistance, edge retention, and effortless cutting. We also appreciate the innovative bottle opener, which is a convenient addition to any everyday carry.
The button lock and thumb stud opener are both efficient and easy to use, making it simple to access the knife when you need it. However, we did notice that the knife is not as durable as some other models on the market, so it may not be the best choice for heavy-duty use.
Additionally, some users may find that the pocket clip is too tight, making it difficult to clip onto thicker materials. We also found that the aluminum handle may be slippery when wet, so it’s important to be careful when using the knife in wet conditions.
Overall, the CIVIVI Pocket Folding Knife is a solid choice for those in need of a reliable and stylish pocket knife. With its high-performance blade, innovative bottle opener, and efficient opening mechanisms, it’s a great addition to any everyday carry. Plus, with a lifetime service against defects in material and workmanship, you can trust that you’re making a smart investment.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best folding pocket knife, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve put together a list of important factors to keep in mind to help you make an informed decision.
Blade Material
The blade material is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a folding pocket knife. High-quality steel is essential for a sharp and durable blade. Look for knives with blades made from stainless steel or high carbon steel. Stainless steel is resistant to rust and corrosion, while high carbon steel is known for its toughness and ability to hold a sharp edge.
Blade Style
The blade style is another important consideration. There are several different blade styles to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some common blade styles include:
- Drop Point: A versatile blade shape that is ideal for everyday use.
- Clip Point: A great option for piercing and slicing tasks.
- Tanto: A strong and durable blade shape that is ideal for tactical use.
Handle Material
The handle material is also an important factor to consider when choosing a folding pocket knife. Look for knives with handles made from durable materials such as G-10, titanium, or aluminum. These materials are lightweight, strong, and resistant to wear and tear.
Locking Mechanism
A good locking mechanism is essential for a safe and secure folding pocket knife. Look for knives with locking mechanisms such as liner locks, frame locks, or back locks. These mechanisms will keep the blade securely in place when it is open, preventing accidental closure and ensuring your safety.
Size and Weight
Finally, consider the size and weight of the knife. A folding pocket knife should be compact and lightweight enough to carry comfortably in your pocket, but large enough to handle a variety of tasks. Look for knives with blades between 2 and 4 inches in length and a weight of around 3 to 4 ounces.
By considering these key features, you can choose the best folding pocket knife for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated EDC folding knives currently on the market?
There are a number of excellent EDC (Everyday Carry) folding knives on the market, but some of the top-rated ones include the Spyderco Delica 4, Benchmade Mini Griptilian, and Kershaw Leek.
Which folding knives are preferred by law enforcement personnel?
When it comes to folding knives for law enforcement, some of the most popular options include the Benchmade Triage, Spyderco Endura 4, and CRKT M16-14ZLEK.
What features should one look for in a folding knife for self-defense purposes?
For self-defense purposes, it’s important to look for a folding knife with a sturdy locking mechanism, a strong and sharp blade, and a comfortable grip that won’t slip in your hand. Some good options include the Cold Steel Recon 1, Spyderco Police 4, and Benchmade Infidel.
What is the most durable folding knife used by military personnel?
Military personnel often require folding knives that can withstand harsh environments and heavy use. Some of the most durable options include the Benchmade Adamas, Spyderco Military, and Zero Tolerance 0562CF.
How do you choose a reliable folding knife on a budget under $50?
There are many great folding knives available for under $50. When choosing one, look for a reputable brand, a sturdy locking mechanism, and a blade made of high-quality steel. Some good options include the Kershaw Cryo, CRKT Pilar, and Spyderco Tenacious.
What are the differences between popular folding knife brands like Gerber, SOG, CRKT, and Kershaw?
Each of these brands has its own unique features and strengths. Gerber is known for its innovative designs, SOG for its military-inspired knives, CRKT for its collaborations with custom knife makers, and Kershaw for its high-quality budget-friendly options. Ultimately, the best brand for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
