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There's no telling what kind of situation you might find yourself in so you should make sure you have a reliable carry knife with you at all times. We will discuss 11 of the best EDC knives for the worst possible scenarios. These knives are tough, durable, and will never let you down!
We're not just your average gearheads. We know what you carry and why, so we create products with unparalleled insight into the industry's needs for every type of EDCer out there - from professional tradespeople to first-time knife buyers on a tight budget!
When you're in the market for a new knife, there is no shortage of knives available. The problem many knife enthusiasts face gets solved because we have gone over hundreds and hundreds of makes and models to make this guide as useful as possible: whether they be landscapers working 24/7 or overseas contractors that must use their tools frequently or someone looking for the absolute best EDC Knife available today!
Always "Think The Best" and "Prepare For The Worst". The thought of losing a loved one is devastating, but it's even worse when that person was depending on you to save their life!
The blade of a knife can range from as little as a few dollars to thousands, so it's best you decide well ahead on what your budget will be. Knives are often an investment in one’s self and should always feel like they were worth every penny spent- even if that meant missing out on certain other options because those items might have been more affordable at first glance or sounded better when talking about them without having actually purchased anything yet!
Knives come in all shapes and sizes, but they should be chosen based on what you plan to do with your knife. Frame lock, thumb stud, flat grind, drop point blade, axis lock, and precision detent are just a few of the "terms" that are used frequently by companies in the EDC knife space today. Some people need rugged blades that can withstand outdoor living conditions while others prefer elegant precision tools!
You can't underestimate the importance of style in your search for a knife. After all, if you're going to carry and use one every day it helps find an appealing blade type that suits what's important to YOU!
Knives are an essential part of so many cultures, from the ancient Egyptians to Native Americans. A knife can be used for all sorts of things like hunting or cutting meat and vegetables on your dinner table; however, it's most often associated with violence because they were also used in executions by executioners who would cut off someone’s hand if he tried to steal another person's cattle.
Knife shapes have evolved over the centuries into what we have today. A good fixed blade has been joined by folding knives that brought us the "trusty pocket knife" with all types of handle materials, bone, and stag for example.
Then the locking knife was developed with a different blade shape and its key features allowed it to be stored away like a pocket knife and have the same rigidity as the fixed blade knife when the frame lock is activated. This changed the traditional pocket knife allowing for different blade shapes and lengths.
All of that brought us to EDC pocket knives! The EDC pocket knife we know today. All with different blade lengths, blade material, handle material, blade shape, thumb stud, and the key features "We Know" as the good knife I picked up today, The Best Lightweight EDC Knife!
How to take care of my EDC knives? The best way I have found that will ensure your blade lasts as long as possible? Take care of it! Keep clean - especially after heavy use- maintain its sharpness through regular honing (or grindstone maintenance), and remove dirt build-up inside between sessions. No matter the blade steel or the design, folding knives or fixed-blade knives both require maintenance.
Benchmade 560BK-1 - Freek
Why It's A Good Choice
The gray and black layered G10 is milled to provide excellent grip and style, while the red G10 base layer and anodized aluminum barrel spacers bring an additional pop of color to the handles of this pocket knife.
The high-strength CPM-M4 blade is designed for hard use, pushing the limits of what the already tough Freek was meant to do. Whether you're using it for everyday tasks or EDC, this knife is sure to become a trusty companion.
At just over 3 inches, the blade is the perfect size for carrying, and the lightweight yet durable construction means it won't weigh you down. So if you're looking for a new EDC knife or just a great knife in general, be sure to check out the Freek.
Why It's Dependable
This knife is a handy, everyday carry piece that can be used for many tasks. It's lightweight and has an optimized design which makes it easy to open with one hand while still providing strong security features like our patented AXIS locking technology so you don't have to worry about anyone grabbing your blade by accident!
The Benchmade 560BK-1 folding Knife comes in at 6 x 2.75"x 1."25," weighing 4 ounces - perfect if size matters when going out on those adventure trips where weight might make all the difference between being able to stay active during long periods without stopping because carrying extra gear just isn’t possible anymore!
Specifications
- Blade Length: 30.48 cm (12 in.)
- Overall Length: 18.415 cm (72.56 in.)
- Weight: 113 grams (0.25 lb.)
- Blade Material: CPM-M42tool steel
- Handle Material: G10 Grivory/Glyde
Spyderco Smock Premium Flipper Knife
Why It's A Good Choice
The Spyderco Smock is a versatile and stylish EDC knife that is perfect for those who like to be prepared for anything.
The flipper action is quick and easy, and the button release on the high-strength Compression Lock mechanism ensures that your fingers are never in danger when closing the knife.
The hollow-ground blade is perfect for everyday tasks, and the skeletonized handle with textured carbon fiber/G-10 laminate scales provides a comfortable and firm grip.
The reversible, tip-up pocket clip allows you to carry the knife in your pocket or on your belt, and the overall lightweight and compact size make it perfect for EDC. Whether you are looking for a new EDC knife or simply want a stylish and well-made knife, the Spyderco Smock is an excellent choice.
Why It's Dependable
The Spyderco Smock is a great option for anyone in the market for a new EDC knife. It features a flipper action supported by ball-bearing pivot washers and a separate secondary detent mechanism.
The button release on the high-strength Compression Lock mechanism allows the knife to be closed safely and easily. The Smock also has a skeletonized handle with full stainless steel liners, textured carbon fiber/G-10 laminate scales, and lightweight open-backed construction.
The hollow-ground blade is made of premium quality materials, and the overall design of the knife makes it a great option for anyone looking for a new EDC carry knife.
Benchmade - Barrage 583 Knife, Tanto Blade, Serrated Edge
Why It's A Good Choice
When it comes to an Everyday Carry (EDC) knife, you want something that is high quality, well-designed, and always ready. The Barrage 583 fits that bill perfectly.
The 154CM stainless steel blade is tough, rust-resistant, and holds an edge well. The Valox handle is strong and stable, making it ideal for everyday use.
The Barrage family is the first to feature the AXIS Assist. The Barrage 583 can be opened and closed quickly with either hand. The 583's quick, one-handed opening makes it easy to hold and use. The reversible pocket clip offers ultimate accessibility.
The Barrage 583's tanto blade has a very high tip strength, making it good for tactical uses. It's also versatile enough for everyday applications. So, if you're looking for a carry knife that is high quality, well-designed, and always ready, look no further than the Barrage 583.
Why It's Dependable
The Barrage family is the first to feature an innovative design called AXIS Assist. This allows for quick, one-handed opening and can be operated equally well with either hand!
The blade steel used in this series ranges from 154CM (58-61 HRc) all throughout its length making it tough enough against most threats while still being lightweight.
You will have ease of mind when carrying it around on your daily routine or during combat situations alike without becoming weighed down too much before even reaching enemies that need cutting through armor!
Benchmade - Mini Barrage 585 Knife Drop Point
Why It's A Good Choice
The Mini Barrage 585 is a great everyday carry knife. It's small and light, making it easy to hold and use, and the reversible pocket clip makes it super accessible.
The 154CM stainless steel blade is tough and rust-resistant, and the Valox handle is strong and stable. The Barrage family is the first to feature the AXIS Assist, making it quick and easy to open and close the blade with one hand.
It's also fully ambidextrous. The 585's drop-point, utility blade style is versatile and all-around functional, making it ideal for everyday carry and outdoor activities.
Why It's Dependable
The Barrage is a new take on the everyday carry knife. The first to feature AXIS Assist, they offer quick one-handed operation and can be operated equally well with either hand!
With its reversible tip-up clip position as well as a lanyard hole for those who want it attached near your neck at all times this folder will make searching through pockets easy when you need something small but powerful in case of emergency - like self-protection...or food preparation if that's what gets ya going tonight!
The Mini Barrage 585 has an assisted-opening steel blade that features 154CM (58-61 HRC), length: 2.91" (7.39cm), thickness: 0.100" (2.54mm) open length: 6.91" (17.55cm), closed length: 4.00" (10.16cm), handle thickness: 0.57" (14.48mm), and weighs in at just 3.40oz. (109.71g).
Zero Tolerance 0235, Jens Anso Design with Carbon Fiber Handle
Why It's A Good Choice
Weighing in at a mere 1.8 ounces, the USA-made EDC knife is designed for comfortable all-day carry. The blade is made of CPM 20CV steel, known for its exceptional hardness, wear resistance, and edge retention.
The stonewashed finish helps to hide used scratches, and the blue anodized aluminum backspacer with integrated lanyard attachment adds a touch of style.
The knife also features a double detent system for safe carrying, controlled open and close, and a half-open position. And for those who like their knives to have a low profile, the EDC knife comes with an extra-deep-carry pocket clip. Whether you're a seasoned EDC enthusiast or just getting started, the USA-made EDC knife is a great option to consider.
Why It's Dependable
From ZT and Danish designer Jens Ansø comes the new 0235, an exquisite folding knife with a high-class premium performance carry.
The spear point blade is opened by means of two steel detent balls on each side that holds it safely closed for when you're not using your knives; then there's also one half-open position in case someone wants to see what they've cut up against or simply take it out without actually opening anything up!
A deep clip provides extra space so this sleek design can be easily worn anywhere whether at work or play. The 0235 has a blade length of just under two inches, a closed length of three and a half inches, and an overall length of just under seven inches. It weighs in at a mere one point eight ounces (51 grams) making it perfect for those who want to keep their carry light.
Spyderco Plain Blade Para Military 2
Why It's A Good Choice
The Para Military 2 is an EDC knife that is dependable, easy to use and has a secure grip. The blade is made of high-performance full flat-ground and is lengthened with a tip.
The G-10 handle is narrowed at the end to improve ergonomics and the knife is thinner overall. The pocket clip is four-position.
From the G-10 textured handle to the steel full flat blade, everything is sharper, smoother, and guaranteed to provide performance and user comfort.
Why It's Dependable
Spyderco's new Para-military2 has an overall length of 8.281" and weighs in at 3oz (111 g).
The blade is made from S30V steel with a thin mathematical design that improves handling when closed, while also ensuring it remains light enough for quick opening cuts without requiring excessive force due to weight distribution throughout one-handed use - even if using the other hand on the opposite side!
A Compression Lock allows you to engage either penetration or support fantasy depending upon your current mental state; a four-way clip allows this folding knife optimization by tip-up/down positions as well as left/right-handedness.
The Para-military's handle is also G-scale material which means it can take some wear and tear, as well as provide a solid grip in all kinds of weather conditions!
CIVIVI Pocket Folding Knife with 3.47" Damascus Blade Marble Carbon Fiber Handle
Why It's A Good Choice
The ceramic ball bearing pivot on this pocket knife deploys the blade rapidly and smoothly, making it a great choice for everyday carry.
The lightweight handle is comfortable to grip and fits easily in your hand, with a reversible clip for right or left-handed carry.
This EDC knife is perfect for everyday tasks like opening boxes, cutting rope, and sharpening pencils. It's also a great choice for outdoor activities like hunting and camping.
With its versatile blade and easy-to-use design, this knife is an ideal gift for any friend - whether they're into knives or not.
Why It's Dependable
The blade on this knife is made from hand rubbed Damascus steel, which has been hand-forged to create a unique pattern that's unlike any other. This makes it perfect for slicing through tough materials without worrying about chipping or wearing away your edge!
You'll love the sleek handle design with carbon fiber inlays--it gives you enough traction while still being comfortable during long job site hours or outdoor adventures.
And with a hollow grind blade length of just under three and a half inches, this knife is perfect for carrying around in your pocket without being too bulky or heavy. Plus, the included stainless steel pocket clip(tip-up, left hand, or right hand) makes it easy to keep track of your knife while you're on the go!
OFF-GRID KNIVES - Rapid Fire Ranger
Why It's A Good Choice
When it comes to EDC knives, the Cryogenically Treated D2 blade steel gives you an overall increase in toughness, extra wear-resistance, and a significant decrease in micro-fracturing and edge-chipping. The black TiNi coated plain edge blade increases durability and is extremely scratch and peel-resistant.
The lightweight and super strong construction make this knife a great choice for military and law enforcement personnel as well as for camping, hiking, and survival enthusiasts.
The comfortable ergonomic design with CNC scales provides a tight grip in all conditions. The two-position mounting clip (tip-up left and right) and lanyard opening make this knife easy to carry and deploy.
Why It's Dependable
The Anso G10 pattern offers a comfortable, confident and grippy ergonomic handle that stays in your hand no matter what conditions you're dealing with. Wet and dry conditions alike!
It's designed to be completely ambidextrous - four-fingerstyle on the rapid-fire or just one for more control- so it can take shots from all angles without missing any details!
We added some excellent guards too; jimping around our thumb area as well as farther back near where there would typically find themselves an anti-slip finish which helps provide better hold when needed most while still providing enough traction not only now but down the road too...
CIVIVI Odium Small Damascus Folding Knife
Why It's A Good Choice
The CIVIVI Odium is a great choice for an Everyday Carry Knife. Made of 110 LAYER DAMASCUS STEEL, it offers outstanding strength and razor-sharp cutting performance.
Thanks to the ball bearing in the pivot, the blade deploys effortlessly. The skeletonized liners keep the weight down, and the jimping gives more security while cutting.
The reversible deep carry clip makes it easy to carry, and the comfortable finger grooves provide a solid grip.
The Civivi knives and tools come with a lifetime guarantee against defects in material and workmanship, and the CIVIVI USA local center provides a faster response to take care of your requests.
Why It's Dependable
The Odium is a small, handy pocket knife with a nicely shaped blade that can be opened easily by a flipper tab and thumb hole.
It has 110 layers of Damascus steel to make it tough yet light enough for everyday use-- perfect size!
This cool looking essential comes equipped with not only functional but also stylish features such as ball bearings ceramic pivot system which allows you sliding action when needed most!
Yet still has smooth-rolling properties so no matter what type of cut or shape piece you working on will always stay sharp without being hard work at all.
Kershaw Clash Pocket Knife, Black Serrated
Why It's A Good Choice
A black serrated clash is a great tool for any hiker, hunter, angler, gardener, mechanic, backpacker, or anyone in need of a solid, reliable EDC. The blade is made of 3.1" 8Cr13MoV stainless steel with a black-oxide finish for excellent toughness, edge retention, and wear resistance.
The textured glass-filled nylon handle scales offer a solid grip, gentle contour, and a comfortable in-hand feel. The drop-point, partially serrated blade is perfect for tackling everyday tasks like opening cardboard boxes, cutting rope, stripping wire, and more.
The feature-rich handle includes SpeedSafe assisted opening, built-in flipper, secure locking liner, and convenient reversible pocket clip. The closed length is 4.25".
Why It's Dependable
The Clash series of knives is a top choice for those looking to buy an affordable, all-purpose knife.
This three-inch blade can tackle almost any task with its bellied design and slight recurve that makes slicing easier without being too hard when sharpening again later on down the line!
It's also ambidextrous so both left-handed and right-handers will find joy in using it for any task.
And lastly - thanks SpeedSafe assisted opening technology; there are no more worries about emergency scenarios happening while you're out doing!
Buck Knives 110 Folding Hunter
Why It's A Good Choice
The Razor Sharp Blade is a great EDC knife. It has a 3-3/4" 420HC stainless steel blade that is excellent for strength, and edge retention and is corrosion resistant.
The blade has a very sharp controllable point and is good for detail work, piercing and slicing. The Lockback mechanism locks the blade open for reliable strength and safety while you work.
The closed length is 4-7/8" and the weight is 7.2 oz. This EDC knife also has a nail notch on the blade which makes it easy to open.
Why It's Dependable
The Buck 110 is a durable and multi-use knife meant to withstand even the toughest conditions. It's perfect for hunting, camping, or bushcrafting as it can be used on any adventure you take up!
The integrated belt loop allows users safe access while walking around with their tool attached securely to your side so that no matter what task needs doing there will always be an available blade!
Making this particular model one of many excellent options in our lineups which are made not just here but also worldwide from the start!
FAQs
What does EDC mean in knives?
EDC means "everyday carry." It typically refers to small items that you carry with you every day, like your keys, wallet, and phone. In the context of knives, EDC usually refers to a small folding knife that you can keep in your pocket.
What is the most popular EDC knife?
The most popular EDC knife is the Spyderco Paramilitary 2. This knife is extremely versatile and can be used for everything from opening packages to self-defense. It features a 3.4-inch blade made from high-quality stainless steel and a textured G10 handle that provides a solid grip. The Paramilitary 2 also has a pocket clip for easy carrying.
Can you use EDC knife for self-defense?
Absolutely! An EDC knife can be an extremely effective tool for self-defense, provided you know how to use it properly. knives are small and compact, making them easy to carry with you everywhere you go.
Do you really need a EDC knife?
It depends on your lifestyle and occupation. If you're someone who works in a hazardous environment where you could easily cut yourself, then having a knife as part of your everyday carry is a good idea. Even if you're not in a hazardous environment, it's always good to have a knife on hand in case of an emergency.
Can I carry pocket knife?
There is no definitive answer, as laws vary from place to place. In general, most places allow knives that are 2.5 inches or shorter and have a blade that is less than half an inch wide. However, it is always best to check with local authorities before carrying any knife in order to avoid any potential legal issues.
Why you should always carry a pocket knife?
A pocket knife is a versatile and essential tool that everyone should carry with them. Here are four reasons why you should always have a pocket knife on hand:
1. You never know when you'll need it. A pocket knife can come in handy for all sorts of situations, from opening boxes to cutting rope to self-defense. It's always better to have one and not need it than to need one and not have it.
2. It's a great way to be prepared. A pocket knife can help you be prepared for anything, whether you're planning a camping trip or heading out into the wilderness for a hike. Having a knife with you will give you the confidence that you can handle any situation.
Does carrying a knife make you safer?
Carrying a knife does have the potential to make you safer in some situations. If you are attacked by someone with a weapon, having a knife can help you defend yourself. Additionally, carrying a knife can be useful if you need to escape from a dangerous situation or open something quickly. However, it is important to remember that knives can also be dangerous and should be used responsibly. If you are not comfortable using a knife or don't know how to use one safely, it is probably best to leave it at home.
Who makes the sharpest pocket knife?
It depends on what you mean by "sharpest." In terms of cutting ability, a pocket knife with a very fine edge will be sharper than one with a thicker edge. But a finer edge is also more prone to chipping and breaking. So the trade-off is between sharpness and durability.
In general, most pocket knives are made with blades that are around 2-3 mm thick. This provides a good balance between sharpness and durability. There are some knives that have blades that are thinner than 2 mm, but they tend to be less durable and require more frequent sharpening. And there are also knives that have blades that are thicker than 3 mm, but they don't provide as much cutting ability as the thinner
What is the largest knife you can carry?
There is no definitive answer to this question because it depends on the laws in your specific area. In most cases, the largest knife you can carry is a hunting or Bowie knife. However, there may be some areas where a larger blade, such as a machete, is legal.
It's always best to check with your local law enforcement to find out what the maximum blade size is that you are allowed to carry.
Is it illegal to walk around with a knife?
There is no nationwide knife law in the US, but states and municipalities can and do have their own laws. For the most part, it is legal to walk around with a knife as long as it's not concealed. However, there are some places where knives are prohibited, so it's best to check your local laws before you head out with your blade.
What size knife is allowed by TSA?
Knives that are shorter than 6 inches and do not lock are allowed in carry-on bags. These must be placed in a checked bag if the blade is longer than 6 inches. Larger knives are only allowed in checked luggage.
The reason behind this rule is that knives can be used as weapons and can pose a danger to other passengers. TSA wants to make sure that everyone on the plane is safe and that no one has anything that could be used to hurt someone else.
Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule. If you have a knife that is considered a “popular collectible” or is antique, you may be able to bring it on the plane with you.
How long can a knife be to be legal?
This is a question with a bit of nuance, as the answer depends on the country in which you are carrying the knife. In the United States, for example, there is no federal law governing blade length, so it falls to individual states to set their own regulations. Generally speaking, though, most states allow knives with blades up to 4-6 inches in length.
There are some exceptions to this rule. For instance, California has a limit of 2 inches for carrying a concealed Knife on your person. Conversely, Alaska has no limit on blade length for open carry knives.
It's always best to check the laws in your specific state before assuming that a 4-6 inch blade is always legal.
Why are lock knives illegal?
Lock knives are illegal because they can be easily concealed and are thus often used in crime. Their small size also makes them dangerous for the user, as there is a higher risk of accidentally cutting oneself with a lock knife.
What is the deadliest pocket knife?
There is no one "deadliest" pocket knife. It really depends on the type of pocket knife and how it's used. A small, sharp pocket knife can be just as deadly as a large, serrated hunting knife. The important thing is to use caution and be aware of the dangers associated with any type of knife.
Some of the most dangerous knives are those that are small enough to be concealed in your hands, such as switchblades and butterfly knives. These knives can be easily drawn and opened with one hand, making them ideal for self-defense or attack situations. They're also illegal in many states, so make sure you know your local laws before carrying one.
What pocket knives do the military use?
There is no one military knife that all troops use. Instead, there are a variety of different knives that soldiers may carry depending on their specific needs and mission requirements. Some of the more popular fixed blade options include the Ka-Bar fighting knife, the Gerber Mark II combat knife, and the SOG Seal Team Elite Knife.
When it comes to choosing a military knife, troops need to consider a number of factors including weight, durability, blade length, and costs. In many cases, cheaper knives are just as good as more expensive ones - it really depends on what the soldier needs and how they plan to use the knife. Some knives are designed for close-quarters combat while others are better suited for general utility tasks.
