I don’t know what it is, but ever since I moved to Texas, I’ve carried a folder every day. I didn’t use to do that but now, I can’t imagine not having one in my pocket. It’s just too darn convenient and useful.
The knives below are not just some random selection. They include some of the best knives from the best manufacturers in the world. Additionally, they include some of the latest innovations from some newer companies. It use to be that Chinese companies produced only junk knives, not anymore. I should clarify that, they still produce a lot of junk knives which you can buy at any major gas station along the major U.S. highways, but they also produce some really great products. I own most of the knives below (and those I don’t own, I’m probably trying to purchase.)
In any event, these knives appear again, and again, on the listings of the best folding knives for a reason. They are top-quality knives from top-quality manufacturers who care about their products.
Every day carry (EDC) folding knives are essential for many people. They’re versatile, and dependable, and can be used for a variety of tasks, from opening packages to cutting rope. When choosing the best folding knife for EDC, there are a few critical factors to consider.
One of the most important things to consider is the size of the knife. It should be small enough to carry comfortably in your pocket, but large enough to handle most tasks. The blade length should be around 3 inches or less, and the overall length should be around 7 inches or less. The weight of the knife is also important, as it should be light enough to carry all day without weighing you down.
Another factor to consider is the blade material. High-quality steel is essential for a sharp and durable blade. Look for knives made with materials like VG-10 or S30V steel, which are known for their excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.
When it comes to handle material, there are many options available, including G-10, Micarta, carbon fiber, and titanium. The handle should be comfortable to hold and provide a secure grip, even in wet conditions.
We tested several EDC folding knives to identify the best options on the market. Our top picks offer a perfect balance of size, weight, and blade quality, making them ideal for everyday use.
Best Folding Knives for Every Day Carry
We’ve researched and tested a range of folding knives to bring you our list of the best options for everyday carry. Whether you’re looking for a reliable tool for outdoor adventures or a versatile knife for everyday use, our selection has something for everyone. From budget-friendly options to high-end models, these folding knives offer a range of features and designs to suit your needs. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for the best folding knives for everyday carry.
Spyderco Para Military 2 Signature Knife
If you’re looking for a high-quality folding knife, the Spyderco Para Military 2 Signature Knife is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The full flat-ground blade is incredibly sharp and durable.
- The handle is made of G-10, which provides a secure grip.
- The Compression Lock mechanism is easy to use and very reliable.
Cons
- The knife is on the expensive side.
- Some users may find the blade length to be too short for their needs.
- The knife is relatively heavy compared to other folding knives.
The Spyderco Para Military 2 Signature Knife is an improved version of the popular Military Model. The full flat-ground blade is incredibly sharp and durable, and the additional surface jimping on both the spine and finger coil provides extra grip. The G-10 handle is narrowed at the end, which improves the ergonomics, and the handle and blade have been profiled thinner, removing uncomfortable angles when in the closed position. The Compression Lock mechanism is easy to use and very reliable, and the 4-position pocket clip provides added versatility.
While the knife is on the expensive side, it’s definitely worth the investment for those who need a reliable and high-quality folding knife. Some users may find the blade length to be too short for their needs, but for most tasks, it should be more than sufficient. The knife is also relatively heavy compared to other folding knives, which may be a consideration for those who need a lightweight option. Overall, the Spyderco Para Military 2 Signature Knife is a dependable and versatile choice for anyone in need of a folding knife.
Spyderco Delica 4 Lightweight Knife
If you’re looking for a reliable and lightweight folding knife, the Spyderco Delica 4 might be worth considering.
Pros
- The K390 premium steel blade is strong and durable, and holds an edge for a long time.
- The dual skeletonized stainless steel liners inside the handle add strength without adding extra weight.
- The Bi-Directional Texturing on the FRN handle provides a secure grip.
Cons
- The blade might develop a patina over time, which some users might not like.
- The knife might not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
- The price might be higher than some other folding knives on the market.
The Spyderco Delica 4 is a reliable and lightweight folding knife that comes in a variety of handle colors, blade grinds, and edge configurations. The K390 premium steel blade has a flat saber-ground grind with a stronger tip and a larger 13mm opening hole. The dual skeletonized stainless steel liners inside the handle add strength without adding extra weight, and they also double as an anchor for external and internal components to attach through generating more sturdiness. The Phosphor bronze washers smooth out the open/close action, and the clip is upgraded to a four-way tip-up, tip-down, left-or right-handed clip.
The blade’s spine has slip-resistant jimping, which adds to the knife’s ergonomic design. The molded Bi-Directional Texturing on the FRN handle’s surface provides slip-free tactile traction, which provides resistance to slipping in the hand.
Some users might not like the fact that the blade might develop a patina over time, especially if they prefer a pristine look. Additionally, the knife might not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks, as it is designed for everyday carry. Finally, the price might be higher than some other folding knives on the market, which might make it less accessible to some buyers.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and lightweight folding knife that can handle everyday tasks, the Spyderco Delica 4 might be worth considering.
Benchmade – 535 Bugout Knife
If you’re looking for a lightweight, high-quality folding knife for everyday carry, the Benchmade 535 Bugout Knife is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The knife is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to carry in your pocket or backpack.
- The drop-point blade is sharp and durable, making it ideal for a variety of cutting tasks.
- The Benchmade Blue Grivory handle is comfortable to hold and provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions.
Cons
- The knife is relatively expensive compared to other folding knives on the market.
- Some users have reported issues with the blade becoming loose over time.
- The knife does not have a pocket clip, which may make it more difficult to carry for some users.
The Benchmade 535 Bugout Knife is a well-designed, high-quality folding knife that is perfect for everyday carry. The knife’s lightweight construction and durable blade make it ideal for a variety of tasks, from cutting rope to preparing food.
The knife’s drop-point blade is made from high-quality alloy steel, which is both sharp and durable. The blade is easy to sharpen and holds its edge well, making it ideal for everyday use.
The Benchmade Blue Grivory handle is comfortable to hold and provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions. The handle is also lightweight, which helps to keep the overall weight of the knife down.
One potential downside of the Benchmade 535 Bugout Knife is its relatively high price. While the knife is certainly worth the investment for those who need a high-quality everyday carry knife, it may be too expensive for some users.
Additionally, some users have reported issues with the blade becoming loose over time. While this is not a widespread issue, it is something to keep in mind if you plan to use the knife frequently.
Finally, it’s worth noting that the Benchmade 535 Bugout Knife does not have a pocket clip. While this may not be an issue for some users, others may find it more difficult to carry the knife without a clip.
Overall, the Benchmade 535 Bugout Knife is an excellent choice for anyone in need of a high-quality, lightweight folding knife for everyday carry.
Benchmade Mini Bugout CF Knife
If you’re looking for a lightweight and compact folding knife, the Benchmade Mini Bugout CF Knife is a great option.
Pros
- The carbon fiber handle provides a sleek and stylish look while also reducing weight.
- The reversible clip allows for easy and customizable carry.
- The blade is made of high-quality materials and is sharp and durable.
Cons
- Some users may find the knife to be too small for their liking.
- The price point may be higher than some budget-friendly options.
- The satin finish on the blade may show wear and tear more easily than other finishes.
This knife is perfect for those who want a reliable and lightweight option for everyday carry. The carbon fiber handle not only looks great but also reduces the weight of the knife, making it easy to carry in your pocket. The reversible clip allows for customization of the carry position to fit your needs.
The blade is made of high-quality materials and is sharp and durable, making it great for everyday tasks. However, some users may find the knife to be too small for their liking. Additionally, the price point may be higher than some budget-friendly options. Lastly, the satin finish on the blade may show wear and tear more easily than other finishes.
Overall, the Benchmade Mini Bugout CF Knife is a great option for those looking for a reliable and lightweight everyday carry knife.
Kershaw Leek Folding Knife
If you’re looking for a sleek and stylish folding knife for everyday carry, the Kershaw Leek Folding Knife is a great option.
Pros
- The slim and lightweight design makes it easy to carry in your pocket
- High-quality stainless steel blade holds a sharp edge and resists corrosion
- Ambidextrous flipper allows for quick and easy one-handed opening
Cons
- The slim design may not be comfortable for those with larger hands
- The blade is relatively short, which may limit its usefulness for certain tasks
- The pocket clip may be too tight or too loose for some users
The Kershaw Leek Folding Knife is a great choice for anyone who wants a reliable and stylish everyday carry knife. Its slim and lightweight design makes it easy to carry in your pocket, and the high-quality stainless steel blade holds a sharp edge and resists corrosion.
One of the standout features of this knife is the ambidextrous flipper, which allows for quick and easy one-handed opening. Whether you’re left-handed or right-handed, you’ll be able to open the blade with ease.
However, the slim design of the knife may not be comfortable for those with larger hands. Additionally, the blade is relatively short, which may limit its usefulness for certain tasks. Finally, the pocket clip may be too tight or too loose for some users, which could make it difficult to clip onto a pocket or belt.
Overall, if you’re looking for a stylish and reliable everyday carry knife, the Kershaw Leek Folding Knife is definitely worth considering.
Cold Steel AD-10 and AD-15 Tactical Folding Knife
If you’re looking for a high-performance folding knife that’s reliable and user-friendly, the Cold Steel AD-10 and AD-15 Tactical Folding Knife is a great option.
Pros
- The ultra-wide ground blade is made of premium, ultra-tough S35VN steel and delivers unprecedented cutting, shearing, and piercing power in a sub-4-inch blade.
- The handle is strong and user-friendly, with heat-treated, full-length aluminum liners, 3D machined G-10 scales, and oversized pins and bolts.
- The Scorpion Lock is virtually immune from failure since it is held securely by constant pressure from the compression spring with support from the user’s grip.
Cons
- The knife is relatively heavy and bulky, which may not be suitable for some users who prefer lighter and more compact knives.
- The price point is higher than some other folding knives on the market, which may be a deterrent for some buyers.
- The blade may require frequent sharpening, especially if used for heavy-duty tasks.
The Cold Steel AD-10 and AD-15 Tactical Folding Knife is modeled after Andrew Demko’s patented original and offers ambidextrous operation. The saber ground spear point blade comes with a false edge and includes jimping on the spine to assure great piercing ability and edge control when precision cutting is required. The bottom portion of the handle has 3D-machined G-10 scales mated to steel liners, while the upper portion, called the “yoke”, is crafted from a 3D-machined 6061 aluminum billet.
The knife is equipped with an ambidextrous thumb stud and dual pocket clips for lightning quick deployment and convenient carry. The Scorpion Lock is designed by expert knife maker Andrew Demko and is virtually immune from failure since it is held securely by constant pressure from the compression spring with support from the user’s grip.
Overall, the Cold Steel AD-10 and AD-15 Tactical Folding Knife is a reliable and user-friendly knife that delivers unprecedented cutting, shearing, and piercing power in a sub-4-inch blade. However, it may not be suitable for users who prefer lighter and more compact knives, and it may require frequent sharpening.
SOG Escape Tactical Folding Knife
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile folding knife, the SOG Escape Tactical Folding Knife might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- The knife features a lockback mechanism that keeps the blade securely locked in place.
- It comes with a glass breaker, wire stripper, and extra line cutter blades, making it a great tool for emergencies.
- The aluminum handle is strong and durable, ensuring the knife can withstand any conditions.
Cons
- The clip tends to fall out of the pocket sometimes, which can be inconvenient.
- The knife might be too small for some users who prefer larger blades.
- The knife is not suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
The SOG Escape Tactical Folding Knife is a great choice for those who need a reliable knife for everyday use. The lockback mechanism ensures the blade stays securely locked in place, while the glass breaker, wire stripper, and extra line cutter blades make it a great tool for emergencies. The aluminum handle is strong and durable, ensuring the knife can withstand any conditions.
The knife might not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks, but it’s perfect for cutting through belts and ropes, fabric, and other textured materials. The blade is made of 9Cr18MoV steel, which is high-end stainless steel and corrosion-resistant. The knife is also easy to open with one hand, thanks to the thumb studs.
Overall, the SOG Escape Tactical Folding Knife is a great choice for those who need a reliable and versatile folding knife. It’s lightweight, easy to carry, and comes with a lifetime limited warranty. If you’re looking for a knife that can handle everyday tasks and emergencies, this knife might be the right choice for you.
Kershaw Blur Navy Blue Pocketknife
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile everyday carry knife, the Kershaw Blur Navy Blue Pocketknife is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The Sandvik 14C28N stainless-steel blade is durable and holds its edge well.
- The stonewashed blade finish adds protection and hides scratches.
- The aluminum handle with Trac-Tec inserts provides a secure grip in all weather conditions.
Cons
- The assisted opening mechanism can be difficult to close with one hand.
- The pocket clip may be too tight for some pockets.
- The blade may require frequent sharpening with heavy use.
The Kershaw Blur Navy Blue Pocketknife is designed with safety in mind, featuring an assisted opening mechanism for easy one-handed release and an inset liner lock to secure the blade in place. The blade shape offers excellent slicing and piercing capabilities, making it ideal for multitasking. The blue anodized aluminum handle is scratch and fade resistant, and the Trac-Tec inserts provide a secure grip in all weather conditions.
Overall, the Kershaw Blur Navy Blue Pocketknife is a reliable and versatile everyday carry knife that can handle a wide range of tasks. Whether you’re opening packages, cutting rope, or preparing food, this knife is up to the challenge.
Benchmade 940-1 EDC Knife
If you’re in the market for a top-quality folding knife for everyday carry, the Benchmade 940-1 EDC Knife is a great choice.
Pros
- The ultralight carbon fiber handle is strong and easy to grip, making it comfortable to carry and use.
- The high-end CPM-S90V steel ensures superior wear and corrosion resistance, making it a durable and long-lasting tool.
- The reverse tanto blade is versatile and nimble, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Cons
- The price point may be a bit steep for some buyers.
- The blade may need sharpening before use.
- The locking mechanism may require some breaking in before it operates smoothly.
The Benchmade 940-1 EDC Knife is a quintessential EDC tool that combines simplicity with unmatched function, no matter the application. It’s ideal for pretty much everything, from backpacking and camping to everyday use. With its slim profile and lightweight design, the 940-1 is the perfect addition to your gear collection, survival kit, tackle box, and more.
The ultralight carbon fiber handle is exceptionally strong with a featherweight feel in the hand and gnarled texture across the board for a sure grip. The high-end CPM-S90V steel uniform microstructure gives it a superior edge when it comes to wear and corrosion resistance. The reverse tanto blade is nimble, versatile, and made for the outdoors.
The AXIS locking mechanism ensures safety and a smooth open and easy close, while the standard clip makes it easy to carry. Despite its many features, the 940-1 is light as a feather, making it easy to carry and comfortable to grip.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality folding knife for everyday carry, the Benchmade 940-1 EDC Knife is an excellent choice.
Benchmade – 275GY-1 Adamas Knife
If you’re looking for a versatile, tactical knife, the Benchmade – 275GY-1 Adamas Knife is a great choice.
Pros
- The D2 stainless steel blade holds an edge exceptionally well. The G10 handle is durable and stable enough for a wide range of temperatures, making it ideal for tactical use.
- Benchmade’s AXIS lock is exceptionally strong and fully ambidextrous. The Adamas 275 is a manual knife that can be opened and closed single-handedly.
- The 275 is rugged yet comfortable to hold and use. The reversible pocket clip and Cordura sheath offer ultimate accessibility.
Cons
- Know what you’re getting, before you buy. Look up “Adamas lock fail” on YouTube. Plenty of videos on this knife’s lock disengaging when enduring shock. Not an issue on the old d2 Adamas, only on the newer version.
- The knife is relatively heavy at 9.4 ounces, which may not be ideal for some users.
- The price point is on the higher side, which may not be suitable for those on a budget.
The Benchmade – 275GY-1 Adamas Knife is a high-quality, well-designed knife that’s versatile and comfortable to use. The D2 stainless steel blade is exceptionally strong and holds an edge well, while the G10 handle is durable and stable enough for tactical use. The knife’s AXIS lock is also strong and fully ambidextrous, making it easy to open and close single-handedly. Additionally, the 275 is rugged yet comfortable to hold and use, and the reversible pocket clip and Cordura sheath offer ultimate accessibility.
However, it’s important to note that there have been some reports of the knife’s lock disengaging when enduring shock. While this is not an issue on the old d2 Adamas, it is a concern with the newer model. Additionally, the knife is relatively heavy at 9.4 ounces, which may not be ideal for some users. Finally, the price point is on the higher side, which may not be suitable for those on a budget.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality, versatile, and comfortable tactical knife, the Benchmade – 275GY-1 Adamas Knife is a great choice. Just be sure to do your research and make an informed decision before purchasing.
CJRB Maileah Folding Knife
If you’re looking for a lightweight and compact folding knife for everyday carry, the CJRB Maileah is a solid choice.
Pros
- The AR-RPM9 powder steel blade is durable and holds an edge well.
- The G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip.
- The Wharncliffe blade shape is versatile and great for precision cutting tasks.
Cons
- The small size may not be suitable for those with larger hands.
- The blade may require sharpening out of the box.
- The pocket clip may not be as sturdy as some users prefer.
The Maileah folding knife is designed by Savannah Swaggerty and features a 2.39 inch blade made of AR-RPM9 powder steel, which is known for its toughness and edge retention. The blade shape is a Wharncliffe, which is ideal for detail work and precision cutting. The G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions.
One potential downside of the Maileah is its small size, which may not be suitable for those with larger hands. Additionally, some users have reported that the blade may require sharpening out of the box. The pocket clip may not be as sturdy as some users prefer, but it does allow for convenient and discreet carry.
Overall, the CJRB Maileah folding knife is a solid choice for those in need of a compact and versatile EDC knife.
CIVIVI Elementum II Pocket Folding Knife
If you’re looking for a reliable folding knife for everyday carry, the CIVIVI Elementum II Pocket Folding Knife is a great choice.
Pros
- Rapidly and safely deploy the blade and is secured in place via a button lock, so you can cut and slice with confidence.
- The lightweight handle offers a secure grip, fits comfortably in hand, and knife with a deep carry pocket clip for right-handed carry.
- CIVIVI knives and tools provide a lifetime service against defects in material and workmanship. CIVIVI USA LOCAL CENTER provides faster responses to take care of your requests.
- One of the very few knives with three openers – a button, thumb stub, and flipper. Deploying the knife should never be a problem.
Cons
- The blade is not very long, so it may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
- Some users may find the button lock mechanism difficult to operate.
- The handle may be too small for those with larger hands.
The CIVIVI Elementum II Pocket Folding Knife is easy to use and suitable for all adults. Its excellent sharp blade and handle style effectively perform everyday tasks, making it a great utility outdoor hunting camping folding knife for men. Use it to open boxes, cut rope, sharpen pencils, and more.
Overall, the CIVIVI Elementum II Pocket Folding Knife is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable folding knife for everyday carry. With its lightweight handle and deep carry pocket clip, you can take it with you wherever you go. Plus, the lifetime service against defects in material and workmanship ensures that you’ll be able to use it for years to come.
SENCUT Sachse Pocket Knife
If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable folding knife for everyday carry, the SENCUT Sachse Pocket Knife is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The satin-finished 9Cr18MoV blade is of high quality and perfect for any use anywhere.
- The comfortable micarta handle with reversible deep carry clip brings you a better hand feeling and the most portable carrying experience.
- The SENCUT Sachse brings you a variety of opening methods, ensuring a smooth and reliable opening and closing action.
Cons
- The fit and finish of the scales to the frame are not quite flush with some of the metal frame protruding very slightly in some places around.
- The button lock mechanism can be a little stiff at times.
- The blade is not as sharp as some other knives in this price range.
The SENCUT Sachse Pocket Knife is a versatile and multipurpose tool that can be used for hiking, fishing, outdoor, indoor, climbing, cycling, travel, work, kitchen, fruit, and daily housework. It’s also a perfect choice as a gift for men, women, fathers, boyfriends, sons, couples, and any holiday.
With a 4.7 Amazon rating, the SENCUT Sachse Pocket Knife is a popular choice among knife enthusiasts. While it may not be the sharpest knife in its price range, it offers a smooth and reliable opening and closing action and a comfortable and portable carrying experience.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly folding knife for everyday carry, the SENCUT Sachse Pocket Knife is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best folding knife for everyday carry, there are several factors to consider. We’ve put together a guide to help you make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences.
Blade Material
The blade material is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a folding knife. Different materials have different properties that affect the knife’s performance. Please note, there are a number of different steel configurations for knives that determine the ease of sharpening, how well it holds an edge, how resistant it is to corrosion, and how well it holds up under use. You can learn more about the different types of steel here.
Here are some common blade materials:
- Stainless Steel: Durable and corrosion-resistant, but can be difficult to sharpen.
- High Carbon Steel: Easy to sharpen and holds an edge well, but can rust if not properly cared for.
- Damascus Steel: A combination of different steels that create a unique pattern, but can be expensive.
- Ceramic: Lightweight and sharp, but can be brittle and prone to chipping.
Blade Shape
The shape of the blade affects the knife’s cutting ability and versatility. Here are some common blade shapes:
- Drop Point: Good for general-purpose use and slicing.
- Clip Point: Good for piercing and detail work.
- Tanto: Good for piercing and slicing.
- Wharncliffe: Good for precision cutting and detail work.
Locking Mechanism
The locking mechanism keeps the blade in place when open and prevents accidental closure. Here are some common locking mechanisms:
- Liner Lock: A metal liner moves into place to secure the blade.
- Frame Lock: The frame of the knife moves into place to secure the blade.
- Back Lock: A spring-loaded bar engages the blade’s tang to lock it in place.
- Axis Lock: A bar moves into place across the entire width of the knife, to secure the blade. Originally developed by Benchmade, the patent on the Axis lock expired recently and more and more manufacturers are producing knives with their version of this exceptional locking mechanism.
Handle Material
The handle material affects the knife’s grip and durability. Here are some common handle materials:
- G10: Lightweight and durable, but can be slippery.
- Carbon Fiber: Lightweight and strong, but can be expensive.
- Micarda: A composite formed from layers of a substrate (cloth, paper, and carbon fiber, to name a few) compressed and set in resin.
- Titanium: Lightweight and durable, but can be expensive.
- Stainless Steel: Durable and corrosion-resistant, but can be heavy.
Pocket Clip
The pocket clip allows you to carry the knife in your pocket for easy access. Here are some common pocket clip types:
- Tip-Up: The knife is carried with the blade tip up.
- Tip-Down: The knife is carried with the blade tip down.
- Reversible: The pocket clip can be moved to either side of the knife.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best folding knife for your everyday carry needs.
For a complete review of Folding Knives from TactBright, look at our article here.
