We buy all the products we test — no freebies from companies. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission, which helps support our testing.
We put a bevy of pocket knives from Benchmade, Kershaw, Spyderco, Gerber, and others through head-to-head testing to find the best knife for your needs
The hobbyist pocket knife industry is thriving - there's no better time to be in the market for a new tool.
We bought 21 of the best pocket knives and had our experts test them by exploring backcountry terrain, camping, hunting, and preparing food. In addition to our in-depth field testing, we compare key characteristics to evaluate important metrics like blade integrity, ergonomics, portability, and construction quality.
The best knife we have tested is the Benchmade Mini Barrage 585. It is meticulously crafted with a compact design that's convenient to carry yet substantial enough to handle almost any task. That said, the Benchmade 15032 North Fork has an equally high-quality blade with an elegant wood handle that anyone craving a more classic aesthetic will love.
If you are looking for the best value, get the CIVIVI Button Lock Elementum II. It doesn't feel as high quality as the Benchmade models, but it still has a high-quality blade at about a third of the price.
Editor's Note: This review was updated on October 26th, 2024, to reassess our award lineup, refresh individual product reviews for the recently updated CRKT Drifter and Benchmade North Fork models, and add the Spyderco Para Military 3 to our lineup.
This top performer has a large blade and ergonomic handle for big cutting jobs and all-day use
A slender pocket knife made from great materials at a reasonable price point
A modern classic folding pocket knife with proven materials and proven performance attributes; maybe not the perfect model, but it will do well for most
An undeniable value with blade options available in some very respectable steels and a wide variety of colors, patterns, and material combinations to choose from
A solid, everyday carry knife that outperforms its price tag
Your typical pocket knife design optimized with scalpel-like interchangeable blades, combining a compact carry size with always-new blade performance
This is a stout, well-made knife for he or she that is seeking some tactical attributes, with a low-profile everyday carry shape
This small knife is great for everyday carry and occasional use thanks to its high quality construction, sharp blade, and the ability to be locked while closed
The best knife we have tested for rock, ice, and alpine climbing
A high-quality, affordable option that makes a fantastic backup knife to throw in every tool box and junk drawer
A compact, lightweight, affordable pocket knife with a handle that is a little too small for robust tasks
A worthwhile budget option that competes directly with higher-end, assist-open knives
Basic, large, and well-made for users with large hands and space in their pockets
Fully-featured and tactical at an unbeatable price but without high-quality construction
A high value, low-weight, classic, and simply designed pocket knife for camp kitchen and everyday use
Well-recognized and tiny, this multi-functional pocket knife will have you reminiscing about youth
Built for precision with a design that has maintained top status for years, the 4-inch (closed), 3.5-ounce Benchmade Mini Barrage 585 houses a 2.75-inch blade that arrives razor-sharp and comes paired with the LifeSharp sharpening service to sweeten the deal — just cover the shipping costs, and Benchmade will sharpen and return the blade to its factory specifications, for life. The Mini Barrage's Valox thermoplastic composite handle fits in the palm well, and its rounded edges slide easily in and out of your pocket. The pocket clip is excessively strong yet still modular; you can swap and wear it on either side. An assisted opening system tied into the proprietary Axis lock reliably snaps the blade to READY status and is deployable by either hand. One can also safely lock the blade in the closed position (one of only a few with this feature in our tested lineup, including the Kershaw Leek and SOG Twitch II) for extra peace of mind while carrying it in a pocket or purse.
The Mini Barrage 585 is pricey, but we firmly believe its value will be realized over its long lifespan. For some shoppers, the sub-compact size may not be to your liking. If that's the case, we'd recommend taking a look at the nearly equally high-scoring Spyderco Para Military 2 G-10, which has a bigger handle and delivers a stellar in-hand performance, albeit a bit higher cost. Our team also loved the Zero Tolerance 0450 Sinkevich Carbon Fiber, which is bigger, has a longer blade, and is also more expensive. If that initial investment is a bit much, there is good value to be found without sacrificing quality. The Spyderco Delica 4 gives some heavy-duty performance at a comparative discount, while the CIVIVI Button Lock Elementum II is an even better value for everyday use. Our lead tester's personal favorite 'cheap' clone of the Mini Barrage, though, is the Gerber Fast Draw, which is built in a similar size and blade shape and has a respectable open assist mechanism and closure-lock to boot. He says, "While it definitely doesn't perform at the same high level as the Mini Barrage or other top scorers, it sells for a quarter of the cost and delivers adequate function for such a compact build.
Exceptionally well made but with a more traditional look, we love the Benchmade 15032 North Fork almost as much as the Mini Barrage. Although ostensibly a hunting knife, at a weight of only 3.25 ounces and a closed length of 3.91 inches, our lead tester Kyle Hameister is quick to point out, “It is also designed to be portable enough to basically disappear in your pocket.” Plus, it comes with a blade made of top-of-the-line CPM S30V alloy — the type of upgraded steel we expect and, really, require on a knife that scores this well. CPM S30V is known to be characteristically balanced, offering good edge retention and corrosion resistance while also ensuring it can be easily sharpened. Users of the North Fork can feel confident their knife has an impressive all-around blade. The orange accents incorporated into the handle also add a nice design touch, and two sets of pronounced ridges along the spine of the blade give ample anchor positions for a thumb pad to provide added pressure on top of the blade for tough cutting tasks. The knife features Benchmade's famous Axis blade lock. However, in this case, it's a non-assisted version, which, in theory, helps with cleaning out the knife after… messy tasks.
The North Fork is a beautiful high-end knife that we feel is perhaps a little shoehorned under the 'hunting knife' label. Although the North Fork does have a longer blade at 2.85 inches, we still ultimately recommend the field-swappable 2.31-inch scalpel blade of the Havalon Piranta as our hunter's companion of choice to ensure you won't need to worry about sharpening anything deep in the wilderness. The Piranta is smaller and won't feel as comfortable in hand, certainly, but it is easier to clean out than the North Fork and weighs a significant 43% less (1.85 ounces vs. the North Fork's 3.25 ounces). On long trips, every ounce counts. Also worth mentioning the Drifter again, as it's one of the only popular recurve-bladed knives we've seen on the market. A recurve blade can be particularly helpful when dressing a kill. It was a feature originally included in the first generation of the North Fork but has now been lost in the updated version. The Mini Barrage is the closest cousin here if you're not into a wooden handle.
The CIVIVI Button Lock Elementum II is the first knife from the Chinese maker that we have been legitimately impressed with. The now-discontinued original Elementum had some major design flaws and scored quite low in our testing. But since the update, the difference could not be more stark. From the outside, the Elementum II doesn't look much different. It has a similar shape and length at 4.15 inches closed, with a non-assisted flipper open action that reveals a Nitro-V stainless steel blade of 2.77 inches in length. The G10 Composite scaled handle comes in the same wide variety of colors that CIVIVI is known for. Though this is mainly for aesthetic purposes — CIVIVI understands that a knife is a work of art that some enthusiasts collect as much as they actually use — we find the texture to be pleasant while giving just the right amount of grip.
The main upgrades are in the lock and the blade steel. The Elementum now features an excellent button lock, which is not only easy to disengage but also makes the knife inherently safer than the liner lock of its predecessor (and of roughly 70% of the pocket knife market). It does require the knife to grow a little thicker to accommodate this mechanism, but overall, it's an acceptable trade-off. The really impressive feature of this knife, though, is its blade steel alloy. Nitro-V is among the top knife steels produced today (competing with the top dogs in our lineup like the Bugout or Spyderco Para Military 2), and to find it in a knife at this price point is the real reason we had no choice but to give the Elementum II our top value award. You'll have to choose if the aesthetics of this knife suit your own sensibilities, but the actual knife metrics can't be ignored. It is a beautifully functional knife offering quality steel for a steal of a price. If you're on the hunt for a truly inexpensive knife and don't mind average performance in use, the Gerber Paraframe Mini is hard to beat. Or, the CRKT Drifter may cost just a bit more but delivers better in-hand performance and a greater overall value for a budget product.
The CRKT Drifter is also a great value and our great choice for anyone on a tight budget, but it is a very different knife than another high-value option, the Elementum II. To start, at 2.2 ounces, it's nearly a full ounce lighter than the CIVIVI at 3.15 ounces and nearly a quarter inch thinner, but the blade length it sports is still about the same at 2.75 inches. We've tested two versions of the Drifter over the years, and in both cases, the materials used (both the blade steel and handle materials) proved decent enough. The Drifter's D2 stainless steel is the same as what we typically see in budget knives, so it's no surprise here. The G10 fiberglass laminate handle is also a familiar and reliable material seen in models across the lineup, from high scorers like the Spyderco Para Military 2 and CIVIVI Button Lock Elementum II to those in the lower half like the Spyderco Tenacious G-10. A couple of things we really liked in this model include the recurved shape of the edge side of the blade, a great choice for carving and slicing along rounded or non-uniform materials, and the knife's unassisted flipper which is not only great for quick opens but can also double as a formidable finger guard when open.
The CRKT Driferis a budget knife. It has a bit of play in the pivot if you crank enough, and it is on the small side in hand at only 3.65 inches long (among the smallest in the lineup) and may not be comfortable to wield for some users. However, we would argue that a well-performing knife this small and light makes for a great candidate worthy of carrying every day. Even if it is not the lightest or thinnest option we've tested across the board, all things considered, we think it deserves your consideration for a place in your pocket. If you're in the market for even smaller, especially portable knives, consider the Leatherman Skeletool KB or Gerber Paraframe Mini. If you're looking for a more 'full-sized' knife in a thin package (and are ok being a bit more spendy), look no further than the Benchmade 535 Bugout.
The Benchmade 535 Bugout is the best knife we know of for self-propelled outdoor adventures. Longtime top manufacturer Benchmade made this knife precisely for carrying in the backcountry. But its lightweight and low profile make it the perfect option to carry with you every day as well. This smaller knife still sports a top-quality, full-size 3.04-inch blade that opens, locks, and closes with the predictable smoothness we have come to expect from the reliable hardware of Benchmade knives. And, at only 1.90 ounces and 4.25 inches in length with a 0.40-inch width, it makes an ideal choice to toss in a bag or pocket on the go. Other models we really like for delivering a similarly high-function everyday utilitarian design include the more expensive Zero Tolerance 0450 Sinkevich Carbon Fiber, the slightly less costly Kershaw Leek, and the budget-friendly CRKT Drifter.
The lightweight design of the 535 Bugout comes with one pretty notable concession: the handle is a tad flexible. It is built entirely of plastic (technically, a Grivory thermoplastic composite) but constructed without an internal skeleton liner, as seen on most other knives. The result is more stable than the product's light weight may lead you to believe, but it is important also to note this isn't the tool for intense cutting tasks. Ask yourself if you're likely to encounter the need for extended cutting in your day-to-day life or regular outdoor adventures. If so, we recommend looking to one of the many more highly rated and more robust options in our test group. A couple of Benchmade cousins, the Mini Barrage and North Fork, would make great tools for such regular, work-heavy days. We also really like the Spyderco Para Military 2 G-10 for its similarly impressive performance in all metrics. Another top contender that may not be up for heavy-duty cutting tasks but is likely to make short work of most average everyday jobs is the Kershaw Leek. In contrast, the Victorinox Classic SD Swiss Army is an option we'd consider carrying on longer camp trips; even though the knife isn't impressive (at all), it would ensure you are equipped with a mini multi-tool in your pocket, which is worth something.
The Kershaw Link features a thick, compound-ground blade of high-quality steel and an ergonomic grip that makes big cutting jobs easier. Whenever we face a daunting task like preparing kindling without an axe – or opening tons of packages of more gear to review – this is the knife we reach for. The specific steel alloy used in the 3.31-inch blade, CPM 20CV, is known for its top-tier hardness and edge retention, so it stays sharp and doesn't bend or flex under pressure. The overall construction is bomber, and the Anodized aluminum grip feels secure, safe, and ergonomic. This is a superb option if you need a knife to carry on the construction job site or just want a large blade for your camping or outdoor kit.
The major downsides to the Link are bulk, weight, and cost, all reasonably associated with opting for such a burly knife. The full 4.75-ounce weight and 4.38-inch by 0.50-inch closed size are absolutely noticeable in a pocket or backpack. This is the heaviest option in our lineup by more than half an ounce and among the top three largest knives in our lineup, with only the Spyderco Para Military 2 Plainedge, Kershaw Blur Glassbreaker, and Spyderco Tenacious G-10 coming in any larger when outstretched entirely. If you are looking for a smaller knife for everyday use or occasional one-off needs, a more compact option like the Kershaw Leek, Benchmade 535 Bugout, or Benchmade Mini Barrage 585 is likely a better option. Considering the price tag attached to the Link, it is a serious investment, but one that we're sure will pay off in the long run for those who regularly turn to a pocket knife to get the job done.
The Kershaw Leek packs a pedigreed blade into a compact 7-inch (open), 3-ounce assisted-opening knife that costs roughly half the price of other high-end options. The Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel alloy blade comes sharp and defect-free from the factory. Like the assisted opening on other models like the Kershaw Link, the Leek can be opened with either thumb via the blade studs or via a well-tuned flipper tab along the spine. It is quick to open, impressively well built, super portable, and reasonably priced, positioning the Leek as a strong competitor to the more expensive Benchmade 535 Bugout and Benchmade Mini Barrage 585 models to become your everyday companion.
The Leek is undeniably sleek and beautiful. But while most of our testers appreciated the thin profile for carrying, others really disliked the handle design due to compromises in overall utility. The knife is excellent for light cutting, but lead tester Kyle Hameister confirms, “I wouldn't trust it for anything heavier-duty — both the handle and blade are just too thin.” It's not meant for heavy slicing or prying – we even watched the tip deform slightly during testing. For a knife with a similar (but slightly thicker) shape and profile, the CIVIVI Elementum II can better stand up to more medium-duty tasks, and it sells for a little more than half the price. Or if you want a truly heavy-duty option for bigger jobs, take a look at the Kershaw Link — that's exactly what it was made for.
Every ounce counts, and that's why we ultimately recommend the best hunting knife as the Havalon Piranta Original. Field dressing and processing anything but the smallest wild game can dull a blade partway through the process. Some bring a sharpening kit, some carry multiple sharpened knives, while others simply forge on with an unsafe, dull blade. Or you can carry the Piranta paired with a few extra scalpel blades (included with the purchase). There's no question the Piranta option is much easier than any of those other choices. The crowning feature of this hunt-ready knife is its smart, swappable blade. Twelve spare blades ship with the knife and are designed to easily pop on and off the stud in seconds, making it a breeze to swap blades whenever one dulls. While other high-end knife companies like Benchmade offer blade sharpening services with their hunt-ready options like the North Fork, Havalon keeps prices low on their knife by providing accessory blades. It's up to you what option you prefer and where and how you want to absorb the extra cost (either upon initial purchase or over time).
With the Piranta's scalpel-style blades, you can work with a finer edge than any permanent knife blade. However, the interchangeable blades can rattle or even pop off the blade stud if you pry too much, which can be disconcerting when bearing down on the knife or cutting through a kill that you plan to eat later. It should go without saying that this isn't the burliest knife we tested, and the narrow handle on this lightweight knife can feel a little less than adequate for tough cutting. The similarly lightweight Benchmade 535 Bugout offers better ergonomics, and although you won't benefit from exchanging for a fresh blade, at least you can have the company rehone your knife back to factory standard edging when your hunting season is through. The same goes for the other hunting-focused design in our lineup, the North Fork. There's nothing quite like working with a factory-honed blade. For anyone not interested in the time and effort needed for sharpening, the choice is clear: the interchangeable blades of the Piranta are a game changer when it comes to dressing game.
The Havalon Piranta features quick-change scalpel blades, easily swappable in the field with the included blade change tool, or by carefully prying off with some pliers.
Credit: Kyle Hameister
Compare Products
In order from left to right by size, the Kershaw Leek, the Mini Barrage, and the Kershaw Link.
Credit: Kyle Hameister
How We Test Pocket Knives
This review started with a thorough combing of the knife market. We considered upwards of 100 models before selecting 21 of the best pocket knives for side-by-side testing. We purchased each one at retail price from the same retailers you would, which helps keep our review free from bias. Each year, we reassess the market, selecting some new options and omitting old ones. We used a combination of controlled tests and general daily use – each model undergoes 21 individual tests across five rating metrics. Daily use ranged from routine tasks like simple camping food preparation and opening packages to more specialized applications like home improvements and automotive repairs. Controlled tests included cutting materials like rope and webbing, whittling, and even boring holes with the blade's tip. In the end, we conducted more than 350 individual tests to help you find the perfect knife to match your needs and budget.
Our pocket knife testing is divided across four rating metrics:
Blade and Edge Integrity (30% of overall score rating)
Ergonomics (25% of overall score)
Portability (20% of overall score)
Construction Quality (25% of overall score)
We put these pocket knives to the test through performing various day-to-day tasks.
Credit: Kyle Hameister
Why Trust GearLab
Aside from testing gear, Review Editor Kyle Hameister's main thing is Industrial Design. From building prototypes in his shop in Colorado to (sometimes literally) running around on product installs, his day-to-day is wonderfully diverse, and a well-chosen pocket knife is a necessary tool of the trade. As our resident product design expert, Kyle also leads up the testing in our multi-tools review and provides writing to our robot vacuums and 3D printers lineups over at our sister site, Tech Gear Lab.
He builds upon the testing experience of Senior Review Editors Jediah Porter and Jeff Dobronyi who both work as certified IFMGA/American Mountain Guides. Professional mountain guiding changes with the seasons: backcountry skiing and ice climbing during the winter, ski mountaineering in the spring, alpine climbing in the summer, and rock climbing in the fall. This variable line of work requires having the right tool for the job, which always includes a solid pocket knife.
The Kershaw Link.
A selection of our tested pocket knives. Notice the variety of blade shapes, sizes, and finishes. There's a specially designed product for every specialty use case you can think of.
The Fast Draw makes fast work of random tasks around the shop.
Our testers know a lot about knives, and after handling them for hours upon hours, they know which are the absolute best.
Analysis and Test Results
The pocket knife landscape is incredibly broad. There are knives with single-digit prices, or you could spend five digits and more on a collectible-grade knife. We focus on the huge middle of this range. We omit unbranded, “knock-off” knives from convenience stores, souvenir shops, promotional retailers, and the deeper corners of internet retail. At the other end of the spectrum, we omit connoisseur and collector products from boutique direct sellers and custom makers.
Our test lineup includes knives that fold for easy carry, have blades between one and four inches in length, are commonly available at various retail outlets, and are optimized for daily or outdoor carry. We put a slight focus on human-powered outdoor adventure pursuits. We also comment extensively on a knife's utility in day-to-day life.
What's the Best Value?
Price and quality can vary, even within this range of products. Your purchase price, generally, should correlate with how much you plan on using your knife. If you use it hours a day for decades, spending more will get you better steel material for the blade and hinges. You'll also get locking mechanisms that last longer and carry options that blend seamlessly with your life. Less expensive options will probably be a better value for more occasional use or those prone to misplacing smaller possessions. But when it comes down to it, the best value is a representation of price versus performance.
Side-by-side of the Benchmade Mini Barrage and the Gerber Fast Draw. The similarities abound between these two knives: similar resin handle scales, lock upgrades over a standard liner-lock, size, weight, blade style, and spring assist opening speed. The difference is in the quality of craftsmanship.
Credit: Kyle Hameister
You're probably interested in the top-scoring Benchmade Mini Barrage — and why wouldn't you be? But if you can't stomach such a high up-front cost for a small tool, even a much more affordable knife like the Gerber Fast Draw - Plain Edge offers a surprisingly similar design, albeit at a lower grade blade and handle quality. The Kershaw Leek is still pretty spendy for many folks, but the steel quality, portability, and stellar assist-open function push it to compete with options well above its price range. The same can be said for the CIVIVI Elementum II for its fantastic button lock and blade steel and the CRKT Drifter, our current top value award winners. For specialty uses like hunting, the Havalon Piranta presents a unique value, considering that it is the only knife in our selection that offers the exceedingly rare feature of interchangeable blades. And if you're looking to buy someone their very first pocket knife, it's tough to beat the value of the ultra-classic Victorinox Classic Swiss Army knife with its added tool features or the almost as diminutive (but more robust) 5.3-inch Gerber Paraframe Mini.
The Gerber Paraframe Mini is fantastically priced for how well built it is. Solid and portable, this value option will serve you well, but won't bum you out (much) if lost.
Credit: Kyle Hameister
Blade and Edge Integrity
By and large, we're talking about the specific blade steel alloy used in this metric and how that directly relates to characteristics like sharpness. Indeed, you may just care if a knife is sharp or not… many materials can be made sharp, and in a knife, that is more of a foregone conclusion than anything. We're more interested in related but distinctly different characteristics. A blade's hardness, toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance are all a function of the raw material, treatment, knife geometry, and blade maintenance. These things balance to deliver actual performance and, yes, sharpness.
To start, resign yourself to the reality that every knife will need to be resharpened at some point, as long as it gets regular use and doesn't sit in a trophy case. Different blade steel alloys and designs will hold a sharp edge longer, but all will eventually need some TLC. There are professional knife sharpening services and many commercially available sharpening kits for home use. Some companies offer a blanket sharpening service. Benchmade's is called LifeSharp. All you have to do is cover shipping, and they'll sharpen these premium knives for the life of the product.
Although you'll find a super-sharp factory edge on the Benchmade Mini-Barrage, Benchmade's “LifeSharp” program ensures you'll never run the risk of a dull blade.
Credit: Megan Seel
But it all comes back to the alloy, the specific blend of metals chosen to deliver the desired characteristics the designer is looking for. All of our reviewed knives are made of some variety of stainless steel. Steel is ferrous (iron-containing), and when that iron is mixed (i.e., "alloyed") with certain metals such as carbon or chromium, it creates a new material that has a variety of desirable properties. A knife blade must be hard enough to resist the abrasion and deflection of the material it is cutting. However, it must also be soft enough to deflect (rather than break or crack) at least slightly in the face of significant forces and also to respond to commonly available sharpening methods. Too hard, and the brittle steel can chip while also being nearly impossible to sharpen. Too soft, and the steel will lose its edge rapidly. It must resist corrosion in the face of a wide array of commonly encountered substances, from water to more acidic liquids like citrus juice.
Blade Design Comparison
Blade Length (Measured)
Blade Style
Blade Material
Closed Blade Lock
Kershaw Blur Glassbreaker
3.40 in
Drop point, hybrid plain/serrated edge
Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel
No
Spyderco Tenacious G-10
3.40 in
Drop point, hybrid plain/serrated edge
8Cr13MoV stainless steel
Yes
Kershaw Link
3.31 in
Drop point, plain edge
CPM 20CV steel
No
Opinel No. 8
3.30 in
Clip point, plain edge
Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel
Yes
Zero Tolerance Sinkevich
3.20 in
Drop point, plain edge
S35vn stainless steel
No
Spyderco Para Military 2
3.05 in
Full flat grind, plain edge
CPM S45VN stainless steel
No
Benchmade Bugout
3.04 in
Drop point, plain edge
CPM S30V stainless steel
No
Kershaw Leek
2.90 in
Drop point, plain edge
Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel
Yes
Gerber Fast Draw
2.88 in
Drop point, plain edge
440 stainless steel
Yes
Benchmade North Fork
2.85 in
Drop point, plain edge
CPM S30V stainless steel
No
CIVIVI Elementum II
2.77 in
Drop point, plain edge
Nitro-V stainless steel
No
Benchmade Mini Barrage
2.75 in
Drop point, plain edge
154CM stainless steel
Yes
CRKT Drifter
2.75 in
Recurve blade, plain edge
D2 stainless steel
No
Petzl Spatha
2.70 in
Drop point, hybrid plain/serrated edge
Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel
No
SOG Twitch II
2.60 in
Drop point, plain edge
AUS-8 stainless steel
Yes
Spyderco Delica 4
2.50 in
Clip point, plain edge
VG-10 stainless steel
No
Albatross EDC Tactical
2.50 in
Drop point, plain edge
440 stainless steel
No
Havalon Piranta Original
2.31 in
Interchangeable scalpel blades
S30V stainless steel
No
Leatherman Skeletool KB
2.30 in
Drop point, plain edge
420HC stainless steel
No
Gerber Paraframe Mini
2.20 in
Drop point, plain edge
High carbon stainless steel
No
Victorinox Swiss Army
1.29 in
Drop point, plain edge
Proprietary stainless steel (between 440A and 420)
No
There is a dizzying array of steel types. We're slowly seeing more and more knives – and not just the ones with premium price tags – move past the standard alloys used for decades. High-end alloys like 154CM and S30V are popular in Benchmade offerings. The S35VN steel of the Zero Tolerance 0450 Sinkevich Carbon Fiber, the Nitro-V alloy of the CIVIVI Elementum II, and the S45VN alloy used in the Spyderco Para Military 2 G-10 are all truly world-class steels designed to give all-around great performance. The 20CV steel used in the Kershaw Link's blade is also top-notch but engineered specifically for its hardness and edge retention, helping make that model more suitable for heavy-duty tasks not common with a folding knife.
Whittle testing the Opinel No. 8
Credit: Jediah Porter
These days, decent knife steel is so common and inexpensive that all branded knives (and even most truck stop or flea market knives) will be made with good enough metal. Most manufacturers of high-quality knives advertise the type of steel they use, with a stamp right on the blade. It is a general assumption, but we've found that it is pretty safe to say that if the manufacturer is willing to tell you what the blade steel is, it will be well above average. The opposite is often true, too; if the actual materials aren't listed, it is probably some medicore stuff. We should mention that the hardening method is just as important as the raw material. Once a manufacturer chooses the steel for a knife, it is shaped and then hardened in some variation of a heating-and-cooling process.
You know it is a high-end product when it has a serial number. This Zero Tolerance knife offers incredible steel to boost its blade integrity.
Credit: Jediah Porter
Various types of hardening result in different characteristics. The steel's edge-holding qualities are well established after hardening — provided the blade isn't exposed to enough heat to reverse (or even further) the hardening process. We especially like budget knives produced by companies that also make high-end kitchen knives or other fixed blade options (like CIVIVI started out). A company like this might downgrade the steel to hit a price point, but it doesn't make sense to tool up an independent heat treatment infrastructure.
The full flat grind of the Spyderco Para Military 2 G-10 is striking as much as it is useful. This blade would be good as a wedge, splitting stubborn material with a twist of the wrist.
Credit: Kyle Hameister
The specific shape of a blade and the grind of its edge also dictate the tasks a particular knife is aimed to perform best on. The blade of the hybrid tactical Kershaw Blur Glassbreaker is sharpened to a steeper angle for excellent wedging properties, for example. On the other hand, the Victorinox Classic SD's tiny blade starts thin and is sharpened thinner, making for a very sharp yet fragile edge. The CRKT Drifter, Opinel No. 8, Benchmade Bugout, and Petzl Spatha are similarly slender.
The Nitro-V steel alloy used on the CIVIVI Elementum II is one of the best steels you can find on a knife these days. Renown for it's great combination of toughness/ edge retention, and corrosion resistance.
Credit: Kyle Hameister
Many knives that are aimed for all-around performance, like the Spyderco Tenacious G-10 and Mini Barrage, have blade geometry that splits the difference between the above extremes. This classic shape offers a fairly tall surface through the main body of the blade, with a slight drop from the spine down to the tip and a similar sweep up from the belly of the edge side.
The Benchmade 535 Bugout has a classic blade shape: a drop-point tip, slight swedge grind along the top, and a deep, sweeping belly.
Credit: Kyle Hameister
You'll also have manufacturers go the other direction, including the shorter but taller blade on the Spyderco Para Military 2 G-10, which features a full flat grind for a uniform surface to press material flat with (think: crushing garlic clove). The grinds, facets, and angles cut all serve a purpose. The Piranta must once again be mentioned, with its novel, interchangeable blades. Havalon was a longtime producer of scalpel blades before they started also making pocket knives (and a few multi-tools). These scalpel blades are undoubtedly the thinnest and sharpest of any in our tested lineup. They can do this because it doesn't need to be resharpened at home, and if it breaks in use, you can just slide on a new one. The knife also makes other compromises that may not be suitable for many users.
The Piranta comes with 12 replacement scalpel blades, a quick-change guide, and a belt sheath
Credit: Kyle Hameister
As with steel hardness, there is no single perfect edge finish. If the angle is too narrow, the blade's leading edge will be prone to chips, while the angle on that leading edge is too steep, and it doesn't feel nearly as sharp in actual use. Rest assured that knife manufacturers have this largely figured out. Follow their instructions for proper care, and your knife should serve you for years and years. You probably don't need this review if you know edge angles better than the knife manufacturer.
Even high-quality steel is susceptible to damage, particularly in thin blades. Though this is a first occurrence over many generations of testing this knife, the tip of the Petzl Spatha snapped off early in our latest test cycle.
Credit: Aaron Rice
In summary, knife sharpness is a function of a wide array of variables. A user's long-term experience with the pocket knife depends as much on its maintenance as it does on the materials and initial manufacturing. The pocket knives we tested demonstrate more-than-adequate edge integrity and sharpness, as the manufacturer has balanced numerous conflicting criteria at every step in the process.
The North Fork will serve you well in the wilderness
Credit: Kyle Hameister
As mentioned, the drop-point or clip-point shapes are the most common we've seen on consumer-focused knives. Note that many products in our test and elsewhere are offered in several combinations of materials and features, including plain edge or serrated. Serrated blades can definitely be a benefit, effectively producing a sawing motion that is useful for cutting rope and webbing, while straight-edge blades are easier to sharpen. The GearLab team generally prefers plain edge blades. Hybrid blades, partially plain and serrated, can address various needs but can also absolutely be the worst of all worlds. The one setting in which we might consider serrated blades or hybrid blades over the plain is for climbing use. The Petzl Spatha has a hybrid blade, which we appreciate for that specific use case. Use and sharpen the straight portion regularly and save the serrated portion for tougher tasks like cutting carpet or rope.
The Skeletool features a long-tapered point but comes with a small, bent metal handle that doesn't serve the blade particularly well.
Credit: Jediah Porter
Ergonomics
Regardless of the blade shape or sharpness, heavy cutting requires a sturdy handle that doesn't pinch or pressure the user's hand. In many ways, portability and ergonomics are direct competitors, so it can be important to understand the build of a knife.
Pocket Knife Ergonomics vs Portability
Product
Ergonomics
Portability
CRKT Drifter
8
9
Benchmade Mini Barrage
9
7
Benchmade North Fork
8
7
Benchmade Bugout
7
8
Spyderco Delica 4
7
8
Spyderco Para Military 2
9
6
Kershaw Leek
6
8
Gerber Fast Draw
7
6
Gerber Paraframe Mini
4
9
Leatherman Skeletool KB
4
9
Petzl Spatha
5
8
Havalon Piranta Original
6
7
Kershaw Blur Glassbreaker
7
6
CIVIVI Elementum II
6
7
Kershaw Link
8
5
Zero Tolerance Sinkevich
7
6
Victorinox Swiss Army
3
10
SOG Twitch II
4
8
Spyderco Tenacious G-10
7
4
Albatross EDC Tactical
5
5
Opinel No. 8
4
5
The most ergonomic knife has an elongated rounded-profile handle that fills a loosely clenched fist, while the most portable knife is the smallest and thinnest. Our scoring reflects that trade-off. The most comfortable-to-use knives tended to be the least portable, and vice versa. It is up to you to evaluate your needs and choose a blade that strikes the balance you seek. The tool needs to be easy to open and smooth to deploy and stow. The locking mechanisms should be intuitive and straightforward, and one-handed blade deployment is best.
Handle Design and Function Comparison
Closed Thickness w/o Pocket Clip (Measured)
Open Blade Lock Mechanism
Handle Material
Opening Style
Opinel No. 8
0.80 in
Virobloc ring
Beech wood
Flipper
Benchmade Mini Barrage
0.56 in
AXIS Assist (proprietary)
Valox thermoplastic composite
Assisted, ambidextrous thumb stud
Benchmade North Fork
0.53 in
AXIS lock (proprietary)
Stabilized wood
Ambidextrous thumb stud
CIVIVI Elementum II
0.52 in
Button lock
G10 fiberglass laminate
Flipper (non-assisted)
Kershaw Link
0.50 in
Liner lock
Anodized aluminum
Flipper (assisted)
Petzl Spatha
0.50 in
Lock back
Nylon
Ambidextrous thumb hole; ridged traction ring
Spyderco Tenacious G-10
0.50 in
Liner lock
G10 fiberglass laminate
Ambidextrous thumb hole
Spyderco Para Military 2
0.46 in
Compression lock
G10 fiberglass laminate
Ambidextrous thumb hole
Gerber Fast Draw
0.45 in
Sliding lock/safety
Glass-filled nylon
Assisted, ambidextrous thumb stud
Zero Tolerance Sinkevich
0.40 in
Frame lock
Carbon fiber
Back of knife finger tab
Benchmade Bugout
0.40 in
AXIS lock (proprietary)
Grivory thermoplastic composite
Ambidextrous thumb stud
Spyderco Delica 4
0.40 in
Lock back
Fiberglass reinforced nylon
Ambidextrous thumb hole
Kershaw Blur Glassbreaker
0.40 in
Liner lock
Anodized aluminum
Assisted, ambidextrous thumb stud
SOG Twitch II
0.40 in
Lock back
Anodized aluminum 6061-T6
Assisted, ambidextrous thumb studs, back kick
Albatross EDC Tactical
0.40 in
Liner lock
Stainless steel
Assisted, flipper
Havalon Piranta Original
0.36 in
Frame lock
Stainless steel with G10 inlay
Ambidextrous thumb stud
Victorinox Swiss Army
0.34 in
None
Plastic
Fingernail
CRKT Drifter
0.33 in
Liner lock
G10 fiberglass laminate
Flipper (non-assisted), ambidextrous thumb stud
Kershaw Leek
0.31 in
Frame lock
410 stainless steel
Flipper (assisted), ambidextrous thumb stud
Leatherman Skeletool KB
0.30 in
Liner lock
Steel
Thumb hole
Gerber Paraframe Mini
0.29 in
Frame lock
Stainless steel
Fingernail
So-called 'assisted opening knives' are the easiest to use. In most cases, we prefer this segment of the market, which includes examples like the Mini Barrage and many Kershaw products, among others. Backcountry use might be the one exception to our preference for the assisted-opening function. Knives that see extensive use in situations where they can't be cleaned often or well, like on backcountry expeditions, will do better in the long run with a simpler set of mechanisms included in their build. For a knife rattling around in your favorite backpacking backpack, a flipper-open or thumb stud option may serve you best.
The Gerber Fast Draw is an example of a more budget offering with a great assisted opening feature. It does open quite fast, but you may notice a subtle scraping sound from the spring action as it does. Higher-end knives will have a smoother action, but we can attest that the Gerber Fast's assist does not fail even after years of abuse.
Credit: Kyle Hameister
The assisted opening function requires at least a bit of a learning curve. For instance, deploying an assisted opening blade is best done with one hand. In fact, opening with one hand is actually easier than opening the same knife with two hands. For this reason, some users seek assisted opening models that also come equipped with a closed-blade lock in order to ensure there's no chance of opening the knife blade unintentionally. While unintended deployments are fairly unusual, it may still be comforting to know most assisted knives include such a lock as a safety precaution. The only assisted knife we tested that doesn't lock closed is the Kershaw Blur.
Local Laws & Regulations
Note local knife regulations frequently include restrictions tied to models with the assisted opening feature, and some of the knives we have reviewed in our lineup may be illegal to carry or possess in some states or jurisdictions. For this same reason, we have also chosen not to test models in another prominent sub-section of the market: Out-the-Front (OTF) knives (pocketknives with blades that open and close through a hole in one end of the handle). We advise all shoppers to check out the state-by-state laws on knife possession and carry restrictions before making a final purchase.
The humble pocket clip is a ubiquitous feature on almost every pocket knife these days, and there is a long-standing debate in the community surrounding it. Ideally, the clip is oriented so that your tool can be pulled from the pocket and thumbed open without regripping — namely, a 'tip-up' carry. This is the fastest to deploy and the testing team's personal preference. Benchmade and Zero Tolerance knives are often made this way, but overall, we've noticed this style only occupies about 50% of the market. Yet we've also noticed an emerging trend: modular clips. Many models will now allow you to swap your clip to the other side of the knife to accommodate lefties, and some even now offer 4-position clips that not only allow you to switch sides but also to change ends. This option can be seen on many Spyderco products, including the Tenacious G-10, Delica 4, and Para Military 2.
Upgrades made between the Gen 1 Elementum (Top), and Gen 2. The opening flipper action is easier, smoother, and has a nice metallic “Clink” into place. The button lock is better than it's predecessors liner lock, though it did require the II's scales to grow thicker to accommodate.
Credit: Kyle Hameister
The Classic SD is the only knife in this lineup that offers multiple tools, not just a knife blade. While you can't open any of the features with one hand, you should be able to engage each of them with even the most closely trimmed fingernails. The Opinel No. 8 also opens with a fingernail slot. All other knives have some form of one-handed opening, at the very least, a thumb stud at the base of the blade.
Opening the Opinel requires two hands. This is a little more primitive than some of the newer offerings.
Credit: Jediah Porter
One-handed opening options include a thumb stud, thumb hole, and index finger pull. All have their pros and cons. A thumb stud is the easiest to work with but adds bulk and protrusions from the knife that can snag. Also, two thumb studs need to be affixed to the blade for ambidexterity. A thumbhole, as seen on the Delica 4 and Petzl Spatha, is inherently ambidextrous and removes such excess material and weight from the blade, but it is also a little less ergonomic to deploy. The Spatha opens with an ambidextrous thumbhole, a unique ribbed ring inside the hinge that can be managed with gloved or bare hands.
You can open the Spatha a variety of ways. That grey circle moves with the blade; you can use it to open the blade, which is especially handy with gloves on.
Credit: Jediah Porter
The Leatherman Skeletool KB is the only knife we have tested that has a one-handed opening but is not designed to be ambidextrous. Its thumb hole is only accessible from one side. Right-handers will have no problem with it. Lefties will have to adjust. Finally, a finger flick opening is unique, inherently ambidextrous, and operates a little less intuitively than the other options. You will find a finger-flick opening on the Zero Tolerance and as an option to open the Kershaw Leek.
The Link's thumb rise is well suited to give continuous cutting pressure, and the handle is comfortable and sits fully in your hand. This knife is meant to be used all day, everyday.
Credit: Kyle Hameister
The Opinel No. 8 has unique ergonomics. The wooden handle, nearly perfectly round, feels nice in hand, and is more than adequate for light-duty tasks like cutting food. A more oval-shaped handle profile, like that of the Benchmade 15032 North Fork, is preferred for more substantial use, like extended whittling or cutting of rope and webbing. We also love the grip shape of the Kershaw Link, which is perfectly shaped to fit the user's hand for comfortable all-day use.
The Para Military 2 sports Spyderco's signature 'Signet' blade ring in lieu of a thumb stud or flipper like many folder knives. Note also the excellent patented compression blade lock (an upgraded liner lock, on the spine).
Credit: Kyle Hameister
With a somewhat outdated shape, the Spyderco Delica 4 is a longtime player on the market. The handle is narrower than ideal, while the wide blade sticks out and takes up pocket space. The wide blade accommodates the thumbhole, which assists in opening the blade. While this is a convenient and ergonomically friendly way to open the knife, it feels more substantial than necessary in our pockets.
The Gerber Paraframe Mini is too small and the liner lock is far too stiff, making it difficult to close.
Credit: Kyle Hameister
Portability
A pocket knife is only as good as it is handy. Will it be there for you when you need it? You will probably leave a knife that is too bulky or heavy at home from time to time. Small knives floating around in a glove box or crowded jeans pocket will be too time-consuming to dig out. The most portable knives in our test were either relatively small and equipped to hang on a keychain easily or had a low profile and a tight pocket clip that was or could be, configured in the user's ideal arrangement.
The Victorinox Classic SD is the most portable knife we have tested and stands out for its tiny stature while weighing under a single ounce. The Spyderco Tenacious is bulky and cumbersome in comparison. However, bulk and weight can be justified by some in these cases for their function and versatility.
The Victorinox Classic SD Swiss Army Knife is an Everyday Carry (EDC) must have.
The Gerber Paraframe Mini size reference.
Small options like these are easily portable, with the Victorinox even able to attach to your keychain.
With both large and small knives in the review, the middle-of-the-line options like the Benchmade Mini Barrage are our overall favorites. For most users, the 6.93-inch length (only 4 inches when closed) with a 2.75-inch blade is manageable while still being functional and easily pocketed at 3.50 ounces. The North Fork captured our attention with very similar measurements and performance results.
Pocket Knife Size Comparison (Closed and Open)
Product
Measured Length Open
Measured Length Closed
Measured Blade Length
Victorinox Swiss Army
3.81
2.25
1.29
Gerber Paraframe Mini
5.30
3.1
2.2
Leatherman Skeletool KB
5.90
3.4
2.3
SOG Twitch II
6.20
3.6
2.6
Havalon Piranta Original
6.62
3.79
2.31
CRKT Drifter
6.49
3.65
2.75
Albatross EDC Tactical
6.50
3.9
2.5
Spyderco Delica 4
7.00
4.1
2.5
Benchmade North Fork
6.9
3.91
2.85
Benchmade Mini Barrage
6.93
4
2.75
Petzl Spatha
7.00
4.2
2.7
Kershaw Leek
7.00
4
2.9
CIVIVI Elementum II
7.05
4.15
2.77
Gerber Fast Draw
7.23
4.25
2.88
Zero Tolerance Sinkevich
7.40
4.1
3.2
Benchmade Bugout
7.45
4.25
3.04
Opinel No. 8
7.60
4.3
3.3
Kershaw Link
7.69
4.38
3.31
Spyderco Tenacious G-10
7.90
4.5
3.4
Kershaw Blur Glassbreaker
8.00
4.6
3.4
Spyderco Para Military 2
8.25
4.8
3.05
The Benchmade Bugout has a blade similar in size to that of many mid-sized options (3.04 inches), but it weighs only 1.90 ounces. That is 0.5-2 ounces lighter to carry than all the rest. The CRKT Drifter and SOG Twitch II are inexpensive options with a similarly small stature for everyday carry, both with reliable blades. The Paramilitary 2 is our biggest knife tested, while the Kershaw Link is the heaviest. Both are likely to appear most to those in need of a heavy-duty blade for job sites or high-demand outdoor pursuits rather than casual home or everyday use.
A growing market knife makers are targeting these days is called EDC, or 'everyday carry' (i.e., a knife suitable for everyday use). Such utility has ostensibly always been the reason to carry a pocket knife, but a surprisingly low percentage of knives are actually engineered to accommodate this need specifically. This market tends to be on the hunt for a thin knife (not necessarily small) that is easily portable and sturdy enough to tackle a wide range of jobs. For this purpose, our test team thinks the Leek, the Benchmade 535 Bugout, and the Skeletool KB are among your best bets.
Pocket clips can make a world of difference for everyday carry. The Benchmade Mini-Barrage 585 (right) is way too strong to slip over a pocket edge easily, and sits significantly higher than the Benchmade 535 Bugout (Left).
Credit: Kyle Hameister
We'll mention again that there exists an almost fundamental rift between a portable knife and a comfortable-to-use knife. A thin, light knife like the CRKT Drifter will virtually disappear in a pocket but won't fully fill out a fist when gripped tight. Conversely, a larger knife like the Spyderco Para Military 2 G-10 will feel much more secure in the hand and when used to slice through tougher material due to both its size and weight. But at 3.85 ounces (versus the 2.2 ounces of the CRKT Drifter), it's going to feel a lot more substantial in your pocket as well and may be less pleasant to carry on an everyday basis.
The Benchmade North Fork is a 'compact' knife, but the rounded and scalloped handles make it very comfortable to use.
Credit: Kyle Hameister
Construction Quality
The manufacturing quality of everything but the blade varied far more than the blade's quality in the models we tested. Our evaluation of these knives' construction quality was mainly subjective but equally applied across the board. Does it feel sturdy and confidence-inspiring? When this assessment came up short for a given pocket knife, it inevitably followed that some aspect of the knife's mechanical function would act finicky.
Handle, hinges, and locking mechanisms revealed the attention paid to detail. Sturdy parts and materials, tight design, close manufacturing tolerances, and carefully thought-out construction stood out immediately and only increased how much we noticed as time and usage wore on. Overall, construction quality was adequate, with no outright failures or breakages during testing.
With a thicker-than-average, scalloped handle, the Mini Barrage sits well in the hand even when taking the blade to stubborn material.
Credit: Kyle Hameister
Locking mechanisms are the best window to construction quality. Well-made knives like Kershaw's Leek and Link open and close smoothly every time. These knives both employ liner locks though — that is, locks built into the skeleton liner of the handle. Many (most) knives on the market have liner locks, which we are happy to see manufacturers slowly moving away from since liner locks are inherently dangerous in that your finger is in the path of the folding blade when it's disengaged. Instead, we prefer button-style locks, like on the Elementum II, or the axis-style locks on Benchmades, like the North Fork. These are on the side of the handle, designed so that your fingers are out of the way when closing.
It is generally more difficult to optimize construction quality with a small knife. The miniaturized components don't leave much room for error. A testament to our high selection standards, the small knives we test are better than average for their size. The Classic SD seems to escape some of the other small knives' issues — all its components work well and smoothly. None of the features on the Classic lock, which likely saves some hassle. The Skeletool KB is right in here, too; small but well made.
The carbon fiber handle sets the Zero Tolerance 0450 apart in our lineup. No matter how you look at it, this knife represents the highest end of construction quality.
Credit: Jediah Porter
The Opinel No. 8 has a unique construction. With only five parts (handle, blade, hinge pin, and two collars that serve as the locking mechanism), it's primitive, but its overall build is very clean. The result is a light and reliable but a little uninspiring classic folding pocket knife. Opening and locking require two hands.
Here the “Virobloc” ring of the Opinel is turned to allow the blade to close and open through its slot.
Credit: Jediah Porter
If you're looking for versatile tools for your next hunting or camping adventure, our gear experts have also bought and tested everything from the best first aid kits and top-rated axes to the best fishing rods on the market. We've also comprehensively reviewed the best fire pits for your backyard.
How to Choose a Pocket Knife
Faced with the dizzying array of options available on the pocket knife market today, where does one even start in making a choice? First, know that most knives are designed with a specific use or task in mind, and your best bet is to start by understanding your own needs before making a choice. Material selection, size, shape, and cost are all specific considerations from user to user.
For a more in-depth discussion on all things to consider when shopping for a new pocket knife, refer to our dedicated Buying Advice article.
What Will You Use It For?
The major benefits of a folding blade over a fixed-blade knife are convenience and portability. Within that framework, though, there's a huge variety of options available. A knife collector may be more interested in displaying a knife for its beauty rather than using it for what they're inherently designed as — a tool. Certain brands, such as CIVIVI, have built a loyal following by offering models in a huge variety of colorways and material combinations.
The Drifter's factory edge arrives sharp enough to cut delicate onions without eliciting tears.
Credit: Kyle Hameister
A keychain-sized knife can essentially disappear in a pocket and be useful for opening packages or trimming the occasional thread from your hem. An Everyday Carry (EDC) knife will be sized for 3-4 full fingers to fit on a handle while still being light and thin enough to sit unobtrusively in a pocket day after day. Larger, heavier knives are going to have handles sculpted to fill a fist more fully and, generally, have upgraded materials to hold up to heavy-duty tasks. Then, you have options that are geared specifically to specialized tasks, which will have unique blade shapes or features. A recurve blade will help in field dressings on hunting knives, and edge serrations are helpful for 'sawing' type tasks like cutting through rope. Assisted opening knives will deploy extra fast, and swappable blades will allow you to keep a blade sharp without requiring manual sharpening.
What's Your Budget?
You generally get what you pay for, though there's value to be found at all tiers of the price spectrum. We've noticed that cost is most strongly correlated to the specific blade steel used, but even a lower-end knife will usually still have a stainless steel blade specifically designed as a knife steel, so there are plenty of great knives that are affordable in the $30-50 range. Costs jump quickly as exotic alloys are used instead, which offer relatively minor improvements in edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness. Handle materials can bump costs up for special editions like carbon fiber but generally don't have the variety or performance improvements seen on blade materials. Certain other features, like assisted opening blades and safer blade locks, will add $50-100 to the price tag as well. Ultimately, upgrades like this can easily push unit costs past $200 for a higher-end knife, but many users will undoubtedly find that to be well worth it. Read on, and be sure to check out our individual award-winner reviews for more in-depth breakdowns of what we learned from testing to help you make your ultimate decision the right one.
The Benchmade North Fork is beautiful, but pricey.
Credit: Kyle Hameister
Conclusion
The spectrum of available pocket knives is immense. We have carved out the important features of knives that fall in the middle of this spectrum and always work to organize our findings better. Hopefully, what we have found and shared will help you make your final selection with confidence.
The hobbyist pocket knife industry is thriving - there's no better time to be in the market for a new tool.
Credit: Kyle Hameister
—
Kyle Hameister, Jeff Dobronyi, and Jediah Porter
