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Always Be Prepared With the Best Pocket Knives

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By Woodsmith Review Team
Last updated: 4 May 2023
Show contents
Compare The Best Pocket Knife In 2023
  • 1 Smith & Wesson Extreme Pocket Knife
  • 2 ALBATROSS EDC Cool Pocket Knife
  • 3 Kershaw Clash Pocket Knife
  • 4 Victorinox Swiss Army Pocket Knife
  • 5 Gerber Gear Pocket Knife

You will most likely need to use a pocket knife to open a package or cut some fruits. A pocket knife has colossal uses, and people love it the most because it is extremely handy. Anyone that has a job related to cutting materials should buy this useful tool as it would significantly ease their work. If you are here to find out which pocket knife you should buy, you will certainly know it when you reach the end of the article. We researched many products and reviewed all their features thoroughly. Then, we formed a list of the finest pocket knives in 2023.

We have also formulated a buyer’s guide, which is the most fun part. Through our guide, you will get to know the considerations and features that should be looked for in a pocket knife.

 

Compare The Best Pocket Knife In 2023

1

Smith & Wesson Extreme Pocket Knife

– Best Overall
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This pocket knife has a length of 18cm and a blade of 7.9cm. The knife’s blade is made of high-quality stainless steel, which doesn’t rust or corrode if you use it safely. The knife has a black colored aluminum handle which makes handling it quite easy.

Key Features

It includes a handy pocket clip that allows it to be securely stored in a pocket. You can easily use it for everyday tasks. Since this knife has a security lock, you need to worry about any accidents. You can be confident in your safety if you have this pocket knife with you.

Pros
  • Has a highly comfortable grip
  • Features thumb studs for easy opening
  • Blade is solid and durable
Cons
  • Quality of the knife is not up to the mark
2

ALBATROSS EDC Cool Pocket Knife

– Runner Up
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This is a camping survival pocket knife. It is mainly used by the people who are camping enthusiasts. This knife functions with a spring and offers rapid hand deployment. Because it doesn’t take a considerable amount of time to open, it can be quite handy.

Key Features

It can also be locked with a liner lock. The lock helps the knife stay closed when not in use. The stainless-steel blade of this pocket knife is razor-sharp, and has an overall length of 6.5 inches. It comes with a pocket clip that makes storing it secure and convenient.

Pros
  • Package includes a seatbelt cutter and a glass breaker too
  • Ideal for camping or rescue activities
  • Good value for money
Cons
  • Knife is quite heavy
3

Kershaw Clash Pocket Knife

– Honorable Mention
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This pocket knife is made of a steel blade with a black oxidized finish, making it durable and long-lasting. This finish is best for toughness and longevity. The knife is wear-resistant and can be used for many years as it won’t rust. The handle is made of textured glass-filled nylon that provides a strong as well as a comfortable grip.

Key Features

The contour of the handle is made so that there is no chance of the knife slipping from your hand. The knife’s length when it’s closed is 4.25 inches, making it ideal for carrying in a pocket. It is the perfect size and a comfortable fit for both genders.

Pros
  • Drip-point blade is best for everyday use
  • Has a reversible pocket clip
  • Locking liner locks the knife in place securely
  • Best for hiking, hunting, and gardening
Cons
  • Blade can’t be sharpened by yourself afterwards
4

Victorinox Swiss Army Pocket Knife

– Also Consider
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This pocket knife makes you agile as you are ready to face any adventure when you have this knife in your possession. The design is utilitarian and loved by many people. The knife is also quite durable as it has a stainless-steel construction that is further complemented by a slim profile.

Key Features

The knife doesn’t wear off quickly and stays like new for a long time. It is a great survival tool and must be present in your emergency kit. The company also provides you with a refund very quickly if you find the product defective. You don’t have to assemble anything as the pocket knife is ready to use upon arrival.

Pros
  • Lightweight and hence easy to carry
  • Comes with tweezers and toothpicks
  • Design of the knife is quite eye-catching
Cons
  • Knife is extremely small
5

Gerber Gear Pocket Knife

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The pocket knife is lightweight which makes it suitable to carry for everyday use. It is also easy to clean as its design is quite simple. The knife has a lock that keeps the blade in place inside the pocket, allowing you to safely open and close it.

Key Features

It also comes with a sturdy pocket clip. You can effortlessly clip it anywhere you desire, and it will stay put. The blade has a substantial cutting edge which makes it highly functional. This pocket knife will work perfectly the way you want with its sharp blades and comfortable grip.

Pros
  • Has a sleek stainless-steel handle and a clip for safe transport
  • Blade is made of stainless steel, which makes it long-lasting
  • Is affordable compared to other options
Cons
  • Knife is hard to close

Best Pocket Knives Buying Guide

Pocket knives is a tool that can easily be used to do several every day tasks. People like to keep it with them wherever they go for security purposes as well. In recent times, you can’t trust anybody and should always carry a pocket knife for self-defense. The knife may also be used to cut fruits and rope, as well as to open packages.

The uses of pocket knives make up a long list that will most likely never end. We have put together this buying guide to help answer frequently asked questions about purchasing the right high end pocket knife.

What Are the Key Considerations When Buying a Pocket Knife?

Durability

The durability of a pocket knife is an important consideration. You need to buy a knife that is long-lasting and durable. You should be able to use the knife for many years.

The construction of a knife should be such that it doesn’t rust or corrode. It is important to check customer reviews to make sure whether the knife you’re contemplating purchasing is durable or not. Many people complain about the breakage of knives after some use. So, you must recognize the importance of purchasing corrosion resistance or carbon steel knives.

Price

The price of the knife you’re purchasing must also be considered. While plenty of low cost options are available, you shouldn’t opt for a costly one as it is a small knife and can get displaced easily. Pocket knives aren’t meant to be an outrageous expense, so remember to stick to your budget when browsing options.

Weight

The weight of the knife should be minimal. As it is a pocket knife, it should weigh a lot less than a full sized one. The weight matters a lot when you have to work with it and carry it to places constantly.

People who frequently perform cutting tasks or who do gardening have to use it all day. The heavier the knife, the more strain it will place on your two hands which makes them difficult to use. Check the weight of a knife in the product description before buying one. To take the advantage of their less weight, most people often consider them in the list of everyday carry items.

Lock

The lock of the knife should be functional and not default. This is the most critical consideration as the lock must always stay in place. There have been many instances where people have gotten injured because of the inefficiency of the lock.

The locking bar or liner lock type feature can be used to open or close the knife as needed. When you want to use it, unlock the pocket knife and after you have completed your task, lock it again. This ensures your safety.

Which Features To Look For in a Pocket Knife?

Construction

The construction of a pocket knife is one feature that can’t be compromised upon. The point here is that you must get a knife made of long-lasting materials. It  should also be oxidized to keep the knife from rusting and corroding. Both, carbon steel and stainless steel make excellent high end knives because of their durability and sharpness. You should aim to invest in a knife that is wear-resistant. Carbon fiber knives are remarkably lightweight when compared to other metal built knives.

The steel formulation is quite popular amongst everyday carry knife users. Moreover, all of the knives mentioned in our list are made of stainless steel, proving that they are pretty durable.

Blade sharpness

The blade should be extremely sharp and have a pointed edge. There is no point in buying or using a knife if it doesn’t work the way you want. The sharpness of the blade can be checked by reading customer reviews and making an estimate of whether this blade’s sharpness is enough for your work or not.

Always buy a blade according to the nature of your work. If you want to open boxes, then you don’t need extreme sharpness. However, if you want it for gardening purposes, buy one with a very sharp blade.

Blade length

Irrespective of the fixed or folding blade type of your knife, the maximum standardized limit of blade length is less than 3 or 2.5 inches. So, if you carry a knife that exceeds the size set by US Knife Laws, your knife may be defined as an illegal knife. So, always ensure that blade type and blade length are within permissible limits.

Comfortable handle

The handle of the knife should be comfortable, especially if you intend on using it for longer periods of time. If the grip is comfortable, then the chances of accidents are also less.

The ergonomic handles of a knife ensure that the task is completed quickly and without delays. In other words, when the hand will not strain, then it will work effectively.

Sturdy clip

A clip is present in the knife for attaching the knife to a specific place. The clip is an important feature and must be present in the knife. The clip should be sturdy and firmly attached to the knife. The pocket knife’s clip helps you to attach it to your clothes or bag for ease in carrying.

Classic design

The pocket knife should have a classic design that looks eye-catching. The color combination of blade and handle should be appealing and attractive.

What Are the Benefits of Pocket Knives?

Cut rope

A pocket knife cuts rope quite quickly. It makes rope work appear easier than ever. If you have to work on a variety of ropes, then you must buy such. In addition to everyday needs, a tactical folding knife is often used for camping, hunting, or even as a self-defense tool.

Campers also prefer holding drop point blade shape knives for their versatility and effectiveness at stabbing strikes. In addition to that, such knives are also well suited for woodworking, chopping, and general utility work. Knives with a drop point are by far the most commonly opted pocket knife blade shapes.

Cut fruits

The knife can also cut the fruits and vegetables. Fruits can easily be sliced in seconds with a plain edge knife as its blade is very sharp. A plain edge knife is often opted if you aim to achieve clean cuts with extreme accuracy and control.

Opening packages

If you want to open sealed packages, you can use a pocket knife to open the box in seconds. It can easily cut the seal, and the process of the opening becomes effortless.

Opening beer bottles

Many people use a pocket knife to open beer bottles. You can easily lodge the blade under the edge of the bottle cap and exert a little pressure to open it.

In gardening

Pocket knives can also be used to cut down the extended branches of trees or plants. It can also shape up the plants and cut fruits or even weeds off too.

As versatile as the pocket knife is, safety requirements are considered paramount. Check the video from ‘Coalcracker Bushcraft’ to learn beginner safety.

What Is the Price of Pocket Knives?

Pocket knives have a price range from $6-$557. The price difference is due to many factors. These include the quality, construction, and durability of the knife. If the knife is high-quality and durable, then it will cost more. If its quality is not up to the mark and is not as durable, it will cost less.

People Also Asked

Q: Can I use a pocket knife for making drainage holes?

A: Yes, a pocket knife can be used for making drainage holes. You just have to cut the hole with complete precision to get a perfect drainage hole.

Q: Can I use a pocket knife for self-defense?

A: Yes, you can use it for self-defense. But make sure that the other person doesn’t get severely hurt. Moreover, you should try to use it responsibly even while defending yourself.

Q: Are pocket knives durable?

A: The durability of a pocket knife varies from knife to knife. Some are durable, while others are not. The ones with oxidized blades are definitely more durable.

Carving & Cutting
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By Woodsmith Review Team

The Woodsmith Review Team’s product reviews and in-depth guides are here to help you choose the best tools and gear to build great-looking projects confidently. The content is created by The Woodsmith Review Team. Woodsmith’s editorial staff is not involved. Woodsmith is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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