Reviews You Can Rely On

Best Pocket Knife of 2024

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
gearlab tested logo
Best Pocket Knife of 2024
A selection of our tested pocket knives. Pictured from left to right: Victorinox Classic SD Swiss Army, Havalon Piranta Original, Gerber Paraframe Mini, Benchmade Mini Barrage 585, Benchmade Bugout 535, Kershaw Link, CIVIVI Elementum, Kershaw Leek, and Gerber Fast Draw.
Credit: Kyle Hameister
Saturday November 18, 2023

Since 2014, we've purchased and tested over 45 of the best pocket knives side-by-side, with 21 models in our latest review. Our experts test each knife while exploring backcountry terrain throughout the United States: camping, hunting, and preparing food. But they also carry them for general, everyday tasks. 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 combination of real-life use and objective analysis allows us to identify the best knife for your needs and the others that simply don't make the cut.

Like finding the best backpack or the best tent, a dependable pocket knife is essential for any complete backpacking kit. 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 multi-tools and top-rated axes to the best fishing rods on the market. We've also done a comprehensive review on the best fire pits for your backyard.

Editor's Note: This pocket knife review was updated on November 18, 2023, to reassess our award lineup and to add new knives from CIVIVI and Gerber.

Top 21 Product Ratings

Displaying 1 - 5 of 21
< Previous | Compare | Next >
 
Awards  Top Pick Award  Top Pick Award  
Price $40 List
$39.95 at Amazon
$23.49 at Amazon
Compare at 2 sellers
$17.00 List
$9.94 at Amazon
$200 List
$180.00 at REI
$299 List
Overall Score
57
52
55
70
69
Star Rating
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
Pros Compact carry, familiar blade, bottle openerSmall, portable, well-constructedExtremely affordable, good build quality, portableLight, simple, well-made, full size blade, full-functionSmall, excellent materials and construction
Cons Small handle, not available with Leatherman's best blade steelNot made for heavy-duty useStiff liner lock, too small for long-term use, not assist-openExpensive, low profile handle, flexy plastic constructionShort blade, issues with opening the blade, expensive
Bottom Line A compact, lightweight, affordable pocket knife with a handle that is a little too small for robust tasksA tiny, multi-function pocket knifeA high-quality, affordable option that makes a fantastic backup knife to throw in every tool box and junk drawerFor a full-function, full-size pocket knife, this is as light as it gets, and is the premier option for all sorts of human-powered adventuresCompact, carefully designed knife for the discerning user that seeks uniqueness and can forgive some usability issues
Rating Categories Leatherman Skeletoo... Victorinox Classic... Gerber Paraframe Mini Benchmade 535 Bugout The James Brand the...
Blade and Edge Integrity (30%)
6.0
4.0
5.0
8.0
9.0
Ergonomics (20%)
4.0
3.0
4.0
7.0
4.0
Portability (20%) Sort Icon
9.0
9.0
9.0
8.0
8.0
Construction Quality (20%)
6.0
5.0
7.0
8.0
9.0
Other Features (10%)
1
6.0
0
0
0
Specs Leatherman Skeletoo... Victorinox Classic... Gerber Paraframe Mini Benchmade 535 Bugout The James Brand the...
Weight 1.3 oz 0.8 oz 1.6 oz 1.9 oz 2.8 oz
Blade Length 2.3 in 1.4 in 2.2 in 3.0 in 2.7 in
Blade Material 420HC stainless steel Proprietary stainless steel (between 440A and 420) High carbon stainless steel S30V stainless steel S35vn stainless steel
Handle Material Steel Plastic Stainless steel Grivory 6al4v titanium
Blade Style Drop point, straight edge Drop point, straight edge Drop point, straight edge Drop point, straight edge Drop point, straight edge
Blade locks closed? No No No No No
Opening Style Thumb hole Fingernail Fingernail Ambidextrous thumb stud Thumb stud
Lock Mechanism Liner lock None Frame lock Proprietary (Axis) Frame lock
Carry Style Pocket clip and lanyard hole Keyring Pocket clip Pocket clip and lanyard hole Pocket clip
Closed Length 3.4 in 2.3 in 3.1 in 4.2 in 3.8 in
Overall Length 5.9 in 3.8 in 5.25 in 7.4 in 6.5 in
Thickness (w/o pocket clip) 0.3 in 0.4 in 0.3 in 0.4 in 0.3 in
Other Features or Functions Bottle opener Scissors, nail file, small screwdriver, tweezers, toothpick, key ring None None None


Best Overall Pocket Knife


Benchmade Mini Barrage 585


77
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Blade and Edge Integrity 9.0
  • Ergonomics 8.0
  • Portability 7.0
  • Construction Quality 9.0
  • Other Features 2.0
Weight: 3.4 oz | Blade Length: 2.9 inches
REASONS TO BUY
Legendary blade construction
Smooth assisted opening
Compact-yet-usable size
REASONS TO AVOID
Expensive
Blade-closed lock mechanism requires a learning curve

Built for precision with a design that has helped it maintain its top status for years, the Benchmade Mini-Barrage 585 has a blade that arrives razor-sharp, and its LifeSharp sharpening service sweetens the deal even further. If you cover shipping costs, Benchmade will even return the edge to factory specifications throughout the knife's life. The handle fits in the palm well, and its rounded edges slide easily into 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 for peace of mind while carrying it in a pocket or purse.

The Mini Barrage is pricey, but its value will be realized over its long lifespan (especially considering the LifeSharp service.) However, we recognize that the initial investment may be too much, particularly if you tend to misplace smaller items like knives. You'll likely notice the slightly down-sized stature of this knife for heavy-duty tasks or during extended use – if you're looking for a larger, heavier-duty knife, we suggest the Kershaw Link. Even if it is a bit on the compact side, the Mini Barrage strikes a nice balance of size, weight, and utility, making it a high-value choice for anyone who needs a high-quality knife.

Read more: Benchmade Mini Barrage 585 review

The two blade locks of the Mini Barrage are industry-leading. The closed-blade lock is hidden and won't accidentally engage in your pocket. The proprietary Axis lock in the handle doubles an excellent spring assist anchor and the open-blade lock.
Credit: Kyle Hameister

Best Bang for the Buck


Kershaw Leek


65
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Blade and Edge Integrity 7.0
  • Ergonomics 6.0
  • Portability 8.0
  • Construction Quality 8.0
  • Other Features 0.0
Weight: 3.1 oz | Blade Length: 2.9 inches
REASONS TO BUY
Constructed like a work of art
Adaptable assisted opening
Excellent blade for the price
REASONS TO AVOID
Handle doesn't allow a significant transfer of pressure to the blade
Thin, more fragile blade

The Kershaw Leek packs a pedigreed blade into a compact, assisted-opening knife that costs roughly half the price of other high-end options. The 14C28N alloy stainless blade steel comes sharp and defect-free from the factory. Like the assisted opening on the Benchmade Mini Barrage, 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, and super portable, positioning the Leek as a strong competitor to become your everyday companion.

The Leek is undeniably sleek and beautiful. But while some 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 we wouldn't trust it for anything heavier-duty. It's not meant for heavy tearing or prying – we even watched the blade deform slightly during testing. For a knife with a similar shape and profile, the CIVIVI Elementum can better stand up to more medium-duty tasks. Still, this beautifully functional knife offers quality steel for a steal.

Read more: Kershaw Leek review

Thin and impossibly fast, the Kershaw Leek may just be the perfect EDC (everyday carry) pocket knife.
Credit: Kyle Hameister

Best Everyday Carry


Benchmade 535 Bugout


70
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Blade and Edge Integrity 8.0
  • Ergonomics 7.0
  • Portability 8.0
  • Construction Quality 8.0
  • Other Features 0.0
Weight: 1.9 oz | Blade Length: 3.0 inches
REASONS TO BUY
Lightweight
Full function
Smooth hinges and lock
REASONS TO AVOID
Flexy handle
Thin handle

The Benchmade 535 Bugout is the best knife we know of for self-propelled outdoor adventures. Long-time top manufacturer Benchmade made this knife precisely for carrying in the backcountry. But its lightweight and low profile make it the perfect everyday carry. This smaller knife still sports a top-quality, full-size blade that opens, locks, and closes with a predictable smoothness we have come to expect from the reliable hardware in Benchmade knives.

The lightweight design, however, comes with a few minor concessions. The handle is a tad flexible: it's entirely plastic without an internal skeleton. It's more stable than the weight leads you to believe, but this isn't the tool for intense cutting tasks. Even the compact Benchmade Mini-Barrage 585 holds a slight advantage over the Bugout when it comes to handle ergonomics. However, it's important to recognize that you likely won't encounter the need for extended cutting in your day-to-day life or regular outdoor adventures. Minor criticisms aside, if you want a full-length pocket knife as well-designed for your backcountry kit as it is your pocket, we recommend the Bugout over any other knife in our lineup.

Read more: Benchmade 535 Bugout review

The Bugout is so lightweight, you'll want it with you at all times for odd jobs like helping to secure a broken taillight.
Credit: Kyle Hameister

Best Heavy Duty Knife


Kershaw Link


68
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Blade and Edge Integrity 8.0
  • Ergonomics 8.0
  • Portability 5.0
  • Construction Quality 8.0
  • Other Features 2.0
Weight: 4.7 oz | Blade Length: 3.2 inches
REASONS TO BUY
Long and sturdy blade
Solid construction
Modular pocket clip
Comfortable grip
REASONS TO AVOID
Heavy and bulky
Expensive

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 every time. The specific steel alloy used in the blade, CPM 20CV, is known for its stellar hardness and edge retention, so it stays sharp and doesn't bend or flex under pressure. The overall construction is bomber, and the grip feels secure, safe, and ergonomic. This is a top 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 weight of this large, heavy pocket knife is absolutely noticeable in a pocket or backpack. If you are looking for a smaller knife for everyday carry or occasional use, a smaller knife like the Kershaw Leek 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.

Read more: Kershaw Link review

The Link is so solidly built that we feel comfortable using it in heavy duty use cases, akin to a larger fixed knife.
Credit: Kyle Hameister

Best Knife for Hunting


Havalon Piranta Original


61
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Blade and Edge Integrity 7.0
  • Ergonomics 6.0
  • Portability 7.0
  • Construction Quality 7.0
  • Other Features 0.0
Weight: 1.9 oz | Blade Length: 2.3 inches
REASONS TO BUY
Interchangeable blade
Razor-thin blade
Open profile cleans easily
REASONS TO AVOID
Blade rattles a bit
Slightly narrow handle

Hunters need a darn good reason not to reach for the Havalon Piranta Original. Field dressing and processing anything but the smallest wild game will 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 and a few extra blades, which sounds much easier than any of those other options. This knife's crowning feature is its swappable blade ability: 12 spare scalpel blades pop on and off the blade stud, making it a breeze to swap blades whenever one dulls. While other high-end knife companies like Benchmade offer blade sharpening services, Havalon keeps prices low on their knife and extra accessory blades.

With the Piranta's scalpel-style blades, you can work with a finer edge than any permanent knife blade. However, the interchangeable blades rattle a bit in the blade stud, which can be disconcerting when bearing down on the knife. 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 back to factory standard when your hunting season is through. There isn't anything quite like working with a factory-honed blade, but for those who don't have that option, the choice is simple: the interchangeable blades of the Piranta change the game of dressing game.

Read more: Havalon Piranta Original review

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

Best Knife for Climbers


Petzl Spatha


56
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Blade and Edge Integrity 6.0
  • Ergonomics 5.0
  • Portability 8.0
  • Construction Quality 6.0
  • Other Features 0.0
Weight: 1.5 oz | Blade Length: 2.7 inches
REASONS TO BUY
Ultralight
Full-size blade
Hybrid straight/serrated blade
REASONS TO AVOID
Questionable durability
Primitive hinge and lock technology

The Petzl Spatha is a unique offering in our lineup. Most of the knives we tested are made by traditional knife makers, but Petzl is better known as a climbing company. Their knife, however, is great. It features surprisingly high-quality steel, just like any other knife built by a dedicated knife company. On the other hand, Petzl isn't bound by convention or tradition in other design matters. They built this thing specifically for rock climbing. We like the serrated portion of the blade for cutting rope and webbing but don't particularly like the difficulty of sharpening serrations.

The hinge of the Spatha is unique. It is a wide-diameter hole specifically designed for carabiner attachment that features a ridge-textured ring that makes it easy to deploy the blade while wearing gloves. On the flip side, the huge hinge holds the blade closed with just friction. While our extended testing of this knife has shown no issues, there is a chance that friction degrades with time, which would allow the blade to open inadvertently. Similarly, the primitive "lockback" blade lock is a bit outdated and also prone to degradation. If you're looking for a purpose-built climbing knife to keep on your climbing harness, the Spatha is a fantastic find, but should also be weighed against the arguably more portable Leatherman Skeletool KB.

Read more: Petzl Spatha review

While there are other knives like it on the market, the Petzl Spatha is the most well-suited for climbers thanks to its ultralight, simple design. Everything you need, with no extra weight.
Credit: Aaron Rice

Best Keychain Knife


Victorinox Classic SD Swiss Army


52
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Blade and Edge Integrity 4.0
  • Ergonomics 3.0
  • Portability 9.0
  • Construction Quality 5.0
  • Other Features 6.0
Weight: 0.8 oz | Blade Length: 1.4 inches
REASONS TO BUY
Tiny and portable
Well-made
REASONS TO AVOID
Not suitable for heavy usage

Significantly more compact than your car's key fob, the Victorinox Classic SD Swiss Army is discreet and ready for action. The first pocket knife of many a child for generations, the Classic SD holds up to hours of whittling, prying, and poking. Adults love the Classic for its included grooming tools and compactness, and when called upon, the small blade rises to most occasions. The scissors appear toy-like but can cut things as stout as rock climbing webbing. For lighter tasks like paper or fingernails, they excel.

While we never had issues with the Classic SD's durability, it is, perhaps obviously, not as robust as the heavier-duty knives we tested. Similarly, the tiny blade is a few definite steps down from something seen in full-sized knives, even a particularly compact knife like the Gerber Paraframe Mini. But the magic of the Classic SD is that it's half pocket knife, half multi-tool, and all portability. If you have some room on your keychain for another little piece of equipment, this classic mini Swiss Army knife will find frequent use.

Read more: Victorinox Classic SD Swiss Army review

The Classic SD is a tiny pocket knife famous for its auxiliary features. The spring-action scissors are a time-honored tool that works better than expected.
Credit: Kyle Hameister

Compare Products

select up to 5 products to compare
Score Product Price
77
Benchmade Mini Barrage 585
Best Overall Pocket Knife
$190
Editors' Choice Award
75
Benchmade 15031-2 North Fork
$220
71
Zero Tolerance 0450 Sinkevich Carbon Fiber
$285
70
Benchmade 535 Bugout
Best Everyday Carry
$200
Top Pick Award
69
The James Brand the Chapter
$299
68
Kershaw Link
Best Heavy Duty Knife
$200
Top Pick Award
65
Kershaw Leek
Best Bang for the Buck
$125
Best Buy Award
65
Spyderco Delica 4
$126
63
SOG Twitch II
$60
63
Kershaw Blur Glassbreaker
$185
61
Havalon Piranta Original
Best Knife for Hunting
$65
Top Pick Award
58
CRKT Drifter
$45
57
Leatherman Skeletool KB
$40
56
Petzl Spatha
Best Knife for Climbers
$40
Top Pick Award
55
Gerber Paraframe Mini
$17
55
CIVIVI Elementum
$59
53
Gerber Fast Draw - Plain Edge
$50
52
Victorinox Classic SD Swiss Army
Best Keychain Knife
$24
Top Pick Award
52
Spyderco Tenacious G-10
$92
49
Albatross EDC Tactical
$10
44
Opinel No. 8
$19

pocket knife - the mini barrage is more compact than a full sized knife such as the...
The Mini Barrage is more compact than a full sized knife such as the Kershaw Link (right), but noticeably more bulky than the purposely thin Kershaw Leek (left).
Credit: Kyle Hameister

Why You Should Trust Us


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 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 five rating metrics:
  • Blade and Edge Integrity (30% of overall score rating)
  • Ergonomics (20% of overall score)
  • Portability (20% of overall score)
  • Construction Quality (20% of overall score)
  • Other Features (10% of overall score)

Aside from testing gear, Review Editor Kyle Hameister's main thing is product 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 knife expert, Kyle also leads up testing our top-rated multi-tools. He builds upon the 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. During his decade-long tenure of testing pocket knives, Jed claims hands-on experience with over 40 different knives.

The Kershaw Link.
The Kershaw Link.
A selection of our tested pocket knives. Notice the variety of blade...
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.
The Fast Draw makes fast work of random tasks around the shop.

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 1 and 4 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.


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.

pocket knife - side-by-side of the benchmade mini barrage and the gerber fast draw...
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 the up-front cost, even a much more affordable knife like the Gerber Fast Draw - Plain Edge offers a surprisingly similar design, albeit at a lower grade of 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. For specialty uses, like hunting the Havalon Piranta presents a unique value, considering that it is the only knife in our selection that offers 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.

pocket knife - the gerber paraframe mini is fantastically priced for how well built...
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


More or less, we're talking about sharpness in this metric. There isn't a consumer choice more perplexing than the sharpness of a knife. You might just want to know, "is this knife sharp?" Unfortunately, it isn't that easy. Sharpness, at any point, is a function of the raw materials, material treatment, knife geometry, and blade maintenance. These things balance to deliver actual performance and sharpness.


First of all, you must resharpen every knife after some amount of regular use. Different materials 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. Or, you could go with a Benchmade knife like the Mini Barrage or Bugout, both of which are covered by the company's "LifeSharp" program. All you have to do is cover shipping, and they'll sharpen these premium knives for the life of the product.

pocket knife - the factory edge on the benchmade mini-barrage easily slices through...
The factory edge on the Benchmade Mini-Barrage easily slices through stubborn rope. And with Benchmade's "LifeSharp" program, they'll tune it up as often as you want and as long as you own it.
Credit: Megan Seel

The process of designing a blade starts with the raw material. All of our reviewed knives have blades made of some variety of steel. Steel is a metal made mainly of iron. The iron is mixed ("alloyed") with small amounts of carbon and often other elements, with endless possible variations. Steel for a knife 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 to respond to commonly available sharpening methods. Too hard, and the brittle steel would be 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, and water alone is a common corrosive agent that must be protected against.


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 longtime standards of blade steel. High-end alloys like "154cm" and "S30V" are popular on Benchmade offerings. The S35VN steel of the Zero Tolerance 0450 Sinkevich Carbon Fiber and The James Brand the Chapter is truly a world-class metal. Few knives in any setting have better steel than S35VN. The 20CV steel used in the Kershaw Link's blade is also top-notch, engineered specifically for its hardness and edge retention.

pocket knife - d2 blade steel, as seen here in a stonewashed finish on the civivi...
D2 blade steel, as seen here in a stonewashed finish on the CIVIVI Elementum, is a common, middle-of-the-road steel invented in the 1940's. These days, there are dozens of new high-tech premium alloys available that let the buyer dial in exactly what properties they want in a knife blade.
Credit: Kyle Hameister

The decent knife steel is inexpensive enough that all branded knives (but not truck stop or flea market knives) are made with good enough metal. Most manufacturers of high-quality knives advertise the type of steel they use. 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, that steel will suffice. The opposite is often true, too; if the actual materials aren't listed, it is probably really, really poor stuff. The steel 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.

pocket knife - whittle testing the opinel no. 8
Whittle testing the Opinel No. 8
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 knives. 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.

pocket knife - you know it is a high-end product when it has a serial number. the...
You know it is a high-end product when it has a serial number. The Zero Tolerance knife offers incredible steel to boost its blade integrity.
Credit: Jediah Porter

Once a blade is shaped and hardened, the cutting-edge receives its final grind and can be tuned for optimum performance for different tasks. The blade of the hybrid tactical Kershaw Blur Glassbreaker is also sharpened to a steeper angle. 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. Modern knives like the Spyderco Tenacious G-10 and the Benchmade Mini-Barrage have blade geometry that splits the difference between the above extremes. This middle-of-the-road blade geometry is, predictably, versatile and functional. The procedures, facets, and angles used to finish an edge further influence the blade's initial sharpness and edge-holding ability.

pocket knife - the benchmade 535 bugout has a classic blade shape: a drop-point...
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

The Piranta's interchangeable blade is the thinnest – with the lowest edge angle – of any knife we test here. 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.

pocket knife - the piranta comes with 12 replacement scalpel blades, a quick-change...
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. Too narrow of an angle, and the blade's leading edge is too thin to resist deflection and dulling, while too steep of an angle on that leading edge 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.

pocket knife - even high-quality steel is susceptible to damage, particularly in...
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.

pocket knife - simple whittling would be &quot;beneath&quot; the capabilities of the north...
Simple whittling would be "beneath" the capabilities of the North Fork if it weren't just so enjoyable to shave precise curlicues with the razor sharp blade.
Credit: Jediah Porter

All the knives we tested have some type of drop-point or clip-point shaped blades. There are many common blade shapes. Some are more general, and some are quite specific. These two are the most versatile blade shapes, similar but subtly different.

Note that many blades in our test and elsewhere can be straight or serrated. Serrated blades cut tough materials more efficiently, especially rope and webbing, while straight edge blades are easier to sharpen. The GearLab team generally prefers straight edge blades. Hybrid blades, partially straight and partially serrated, can address various needs and also absolutely be the worst of all worlds. The one setting in which we approve of serrated blades or hybrid blades is for climbing use. The Petzl Spatha has a hybrid blade, which we appreciate on that tool. Use and sharpen the straight portion regularly and save the serrated portion for tougher tasks like cutting carpet or rope.

pocket knife - the long-tapered point and overall dimensions of the skeletool blade...
The long-tapered point and overall dimensions of the Skeletool blade are great. In the case of the Skeletool KB, the handle is a little small to do the blade justice. That bent metal handle is familiar from the multi-tool, but unnecessarily limiting, in terms of ergonomics in a dedicated pocket knife.
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. 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 tradeoff. The most user-friendly knives were 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.


So-called "assisted opening knives" are even easier to use. In most cases, we prefer the assisted opening blades of knives like the Mini Barrage and two Kershaw products, among others. Backcountry use might be the one exception to our preference for the assisted-opening function. More accurately, we recommend that if you intend to carry your knife extensively somewhere other than clipped to your pants pocket, steer clear of an assisted opening function. An assisted opening knife is more likely to come open inadvertently in any setting unless you deploy its lock-closed function. But doing so, of course, negates any of the convenience of assisted opening. Clipped to the edge of your pants pocket, the likelihood of an accidental opening is very low. In that very common carry mode, we can't think of a reason not to choose an assisted opening knife. If, on the other hand, it will float around extensively in your favorite backpacking backpack, an assisted opening function is more of a liability than it is worth.

pocket knife - the link&#039;s thumb rise is well suited to give continuous cutting...
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 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. Opening one with one hand is easier than opening the same knife with two hands. Further, some prefer that their assisted opening knife be equipped with a locking mechanism. Most have this, but not all. The only assisted opening knife we tested that doesn't lock closed is the Kershaw Blur.

Local Laws & Regulations


Note that assisted opening is a knife qualifier that frequently appears in local knife regulations. Some of the knives we have reviewed are illegal to carry or possess in some jurisdictions. Check state-by-state laws on knife possession and carriage.

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 clip is ideally oriented for pocket-clipped knives so that the tool can be pulled from the pocket and thumbed open without regripping. This tip-up carry is the fastest to deploy. The Benchmade and Zero Tolerance knives are made this way and can be arranged to work that way in either the left or right pocket. Why other manufacturers do not employ this simple strategy is mystifying. The only reasonable argument against tip-up pocket carry is that the blade can be more likely to fall open in your pocket with gravity. An open or, worse yet, partially open knife in your pocket is terrifying but unlikely. We have never, ever, had this happen. The Spyderco Tenacious G-10 and Delica 4 both all have a pocket clip that can be manipulated to hang in your pocket in one of four different configurations: tip-up or down and left or right thumb activation. This attribute alone can favor a Spyderco model for those unclear about how they wish to carry their blade or can't find a knife to match their preference.

pocket knife - stowage of the delica is pretty visible, thanks to the pocket clip&#039;s...
Stowage of the Delica is pretty visible, thanks to the pocket clip's attachment location relative to the end of the knife. This might not work with your wardrobe requirements in some situations.
Credit: Jediah Porter

The Classic SD is the only knife in this lineup that has multiple tools. While you can't open any of the features with one hand, you should be able to engage 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.

pocket knife - opening the opinel requires two hands. this is a little more...
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 that can snag. Also, two thumb studs need to be affixed to the blade for ambidexterity. A thumbhole, as on the Delica 4 and Petzl Spatha, is inherently ambidextrous and removes material and weight from the blade. It is just a little less ergonomic to deploy. The Spatha opens with an ambidextrous thumbhole or a unique ribbed ring inside the hinge, with gloved or bare hands. The Leatherman Skeletool KB is the only knife we have tested that has a one-handed opening but is not ambidextrous. Its thumb hole is only accessible from one side. Right-handers will have no problem with it. Lefties will have to adjust. Finally, the finger flick opening is unique, inherently ambidextrous, and a little less intuitive than the others. Find a finger-flick opening on the Zero Tolerance and as an option on the Kershaw Leek.

pocket knife - you can open the spatha a variety of ways. that grey circle moves...
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 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 15031-2 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 excellent hand ergonomics, and the extra hard 20CV blade steel makes the Kershaw Link one of our top picks for long stints in the wilderness.
Credit: Kyle Hameister

The diminutive James Brand knife has a simple design that opens with one hand. The user's thumb is a little vulnerable to cutting on the blade while opening due to a slightly sticky blade and the overall dimensions. Users learned to deal with this concern, but our test team had some trouble while riding the learning curve.

pocket knife - this image shows the chapter proportions. the blade is quite a bit...
This image shows the Chapter proportions. The blade is quite a bit shorter than the handle.
Credit: Rosie De Lise

With a somewhat outdated shape, the Spyderco Delica 4 is a long-time 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...
The Victorinox Classic SD Swiss Army Knife is an Everyday Carry (EDC) must have.
The Gerber Paraframe Mini size reference.
The Gerber Paraframe Mini size reference.

With both large and small knives in the review, the middle of the line Benchmade Mini Barrage is our overall favorite. For most users, the size is manageable while still being functional. The Benchmade Bugout has a blade similar in size to that of these mid-sized options but is much lighter than them all. The SOG Twitch II has a similarly small stature for everyday carry, with a reliable blade.


The Gerber Paraframe Mini lives up to its name, with a very similar design to the Kershaw Leek but nearly half the weight. Both are equally thin and easy to carry in a pocket, but the Leek is nearly two inches longer than the Paraframe Mini. The Skeletool KB is relatively small. Further, its handle is disproportionately small compared to its blade.

pocket knife - pocket clips can make a world of difference for everyday carry. the...
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

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.

pocket knife - the mini barrage is one of the best built knives we&#039;ve ever had the...
The Mini Barrage is one of the best built knives we've ever had the pleasure of reviewing. The thicker-than-average handle sits well in the hand, is well-scalloped and comfortable, and overall feels safe to pry and twist in stubborn material as needed without fear of breaking.
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. Some less expensive options cut just fine, but the locking mechanism can be difficult to disengage.

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.

pocket knife - the carbon fiber handle sets the zero tolerance 0450 apart in our...
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 super simple, and its overall build is very clean. The result is light and reliable but a little uninspiring. Opening and locking require two hands.

pocket knife - here the &quot;virobloc&quot; ring of the opinel is turned to allow the blade...
Here the "Virobloc" ring of the Opinel is turned to allow the blade to close and open through its slot.
Credit: Jediah Porter

Other Features


In our test, only the Victorinox Classic SD, Leatherman Skeletool KB, Kershaw Blur, and Albatross EDC Tactical have functions besides a primary blade.

pocket knife - the hidden tweezers in the handle scales of the classic sd swiss...
The hidden tweezers in the handle scales of the Classic SD Swiss Army Knife come in surprisingly handy.
Credit: Ashley DiRuggiero

Tactical knives are designed for rescue usage. Paramedics and firefighters use the stout blade, seatbelt cutter, and glass-breaking punch. The rest of us may fear the need to cut our seatbelts and bash through the window of our car, but we'll probably tire of carrying such a burly pocket knife long before using these features. The Kershaw Blur is a hybrid tactical knife with just a hardened and pointed glass breaker, and the EDC Tactical has both a seatbelt cutter and a glass breaker.

pocket knife - although it is still just a straight blade once its installed, you...
Although it is still just a straight blade once its installed, you could easily argue that the interchangeable blades on the Piranta are a feature unto itself.
Credit: Kyle Hameister

The tiny Classic Swiss Army knife packs a versatile punch in a small package. The combination of little tools on this knife could be almost perfect for the day-to-day user. From office tasks to personal grooming to light home maintenance, the Classic SD's simple features will get the owner through most of life's challenges.

The only additional feature on the Skeletool KB is a bottle opener. The bottle opener is sufficient but slightly more fiddly than your typical opener. It works just fine for the first few drinks of your evening.

pocket knife - pocket knives come in all shapes and sizes, offering a wide variety...
Pocket knives come in all shapes and sizes, offering a wide variety of utility and versatility, across a broad range of price points. There's sure to be the perfect one for you in our review!
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 has helped you make your eventual selection and make it confidently.

Jeff Dobronyi, Jediah Porter, and Kyle Hameister