For years, I carried my fixed blade knives vertically on my belt. It was fine, but I always found the handle could be a bit cumbersome, especially when sitting in a vehicle or wearing a pack with a hip belt. Then I tried horizontal carry, and it was a total game-changer. Having the knife sit snugly against the small of your back or on your hip completely changes its profile, making it incredibly discreet and comfortable for all-day wear. It’s an ergonomic upgrade that makes a fixed blade feel almost as easy to carry as a folder.
If you’re new to this method, you’ll need a sheath designed for it. The best horizontal carry fixed blade knives typically feature a blade under four inches and a sheath with multiple mounting options. This setup keeps the knife secure and accessible, perfect for everyday tasks, outdoor work, or as a backup tool. I’ve spent a lot of time testing various models to find the ones that truly excel in this role. Here’s my list of the top performers for 2025 that balance sharp performance with comfortable, out-of-the-way carry.
The Top 5 Horizontal Carry Fixed Blade Knives for 2025
- Bradford Guardian 3 Sheepsfoot
- White River Knives Backpacker Pro S
- ESEE Knives Izula
- Tops Knives Scandi Bushman
- Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter
Bradford Guardian 3 Sheepsfoot
I’ve been carrying the Bradford Guardian 3 for months, and it’s probably my favorite horizontal-carry knife. The sheepsfoot blade is incredibly useful for everyday tasks; the flat cutting edge is perfect for opening boxes, cutting cordage, and food prep without a sharp tip getting in the way. It’s made from tough M390 steel, which holds an edge for a very long time, and the full convex grind slices through materials with surprising ease. The handle, whether you choose G-10 or 3D contoured scales, offers a secure and comfortable grip that makes detailed work feel controlled and safe.
What really makes the Guardian 3 stand out for horizontal carry is its exceptional sheath system. Bradford offers a variety of options, but the Armatus Architect sheath is a popular choice for good reason. It’s a injection-molded Kydex sheath that can be configured for horizontal, vertical, or even inside-the-waistband carry with incredible stability. The knife clicks in with a satisfying and secure retention, and the modularity of the clip system means you can fine-tune the ride height and angle to fit your body perfectly. It disappears under a t-shirt and is a joy to use.
Pros
- Superb M390 steel holds a razor edge
- Sheepsfoot blade is safe and practical for EDC
- Excellent aftermarket sheath support, especially from Armatus
Cons
- Higher price point than some other options
- The stock sheath is functional but not as versatile as an aftermarket one
White River Knives Backpacker Pro S
If you’re looking for a knife that feels like a premium tool built for serious use, the White River Backpacker Pro S is a fantastic choice. The S35VN steel is a workhorse, offering a great balance of edge retention, toughness, and ease of sharpening. The drop-point blade shape is a classic for a reason, providing a fine tip for precision work and a belly ideal for slicing. The green Micarta handles develop a unique patina over time, and the ergonomics are just about perfect, filling the hand nicely for both light and heavy cutting tasks.
This knife comes with a beautifully crafted leather sheath that is specifically designed for horizontal carry. The quality is immediately apparent, with sturdy stitching and a solid belt loop that keeps the knife positioned correctly. The retention is secure, and the leather molds to the knife over time. While it’s a bit more outdoors-focused than the Guardian 3, it performs brilliantly as a hard-use EDC knife. It’s the kind of tool you can rely on for everything from processing kindling on a camping trip to breaking down cardboard at home.
Pros
- Premium S35VN steel is tough and easy to maintain
- Outstanding ergonomics with comfortable Micarta handles
- High-quality leather sheath included, optimized for horizontal carry
Cons
- Leather sheath requires more maintenance than Kydex
- Slightly larger footprint than other options on this list
ESEE Knives Izula
The ESEE Izula is a legend in the small fixed blade world, and for good reason. It’s incredibly simple, robust, and affordable. The 1095 carbon steel is tough as nails and very easy to sharpen in the field. The design is a no-frills drop point that gets the job done. Because of its minimalist skeletonized handle, the Izula is incredibly lightweight and compact, making it one of the easiest knives to forget you’re carrying horizontally until you need it.
The real beauty of the Izula is its customizability. The stock sheath is a basic but effective thermoplastic one, but the aftermarket support is massive. You can easily find Kydex sheaths from companies like Armatus or TKC that are made specifically for horizontal carry. You can also add handle scales from a variety of makers to fill out the grip if you prefer. This makes the Izula a perfect platform to build your ideal small carry knife. It’s a true workhorse that punches far above its weight class and is backed by ESEE’s famous no-questions-asked warranty.
Pros
- Extremely durable and simple 1095 steel construction
- Very lightweight and compact for all-day comfort
- Massive aftermarket support for sheaths and handle scales
Cons
- 1095 steel requires more maintenance to prevent rust
- The skeletonized handle can be uncomfortable for prolonged heavy use without scales
Tops Knives Scandi Bushman
For those who prefer a more traditional bushcraft style, the Tops Scandi Bushman is a great option. The Scandi grind is excellent for wood carving and feather sticking, biting deep into wood with minimal effort. The 1095 carbon steel is thick and robust, built to handle batoning and other demanding tasks. The knife has a very solid, almost indestructible feel to it, and the black traction coating helps protect the steel from the elements while reducing glare.
While it’s a capable survival knife, its compact size also makes it suitable for horizontal carry. The included leather sheath is sturdy and can be worn horizontally with the right belt setup. The handle is comfortable and provides a confident grip. This is the knife I’d choose if my EDC needs leaned more toward outdoor pursuits and less toward urban tasks. It’s a purposeful tool that feels ready for anything you can throw at it, from building a shelter to processing game.
Pros
- Excellent Scandi grind for woodworking and bushcraft tasks
- Extremely robust and over-built construction
- Comfortable handle with a secure grip
Cons
- The thick blade stock is not ideal for slicing food or fine tasks
- Like the Izula, 1095 steel requires vigilant maintenance against rust
Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter
Benchmade’s Hidden Canyon Hunter is a sleek and refined small fixed blade. It features Benchmade’s premium S30V steel, which offers superb edge retention and corrosion resistance, making it a true low-maintenance option. The handle is made from attractive and grippy Dymondwood, which provides excellent control. The deep-bellied drop point blade is a fantastic all-around shape, great for everything from detailed carving to skinning game, as the name implies.
The knife comes with a very nice leather sheath that has a built-in fire starter loop. While it’s designed as a vertical neck knife sheath, it works perfectly for horizontal belt carry. The leather is high quality and molds to the knife for a custom fit. The overall package feels premium and is built to last. It’s a bit more of a hunting-oriented knife, but its size and performance make it a fantastic, classy option for everyday horizontal carry if you appreciate finer craftsmanship.
Pros
- High-performance S30V steel with great corrosion resistance
- Beautiful and functional Dymondwood handle
- Compact size and sleek design make for very comfortable carry
Cons
- One of the more expensive options on the list
- The leather sheath, while nice, may not be as durable long-term as Kydex
5 Best Horizontal Carry Fixed Blade Knives (2025 Edition)
If you’re looking for a fixed blade knife that sits snugly and discreetly against the small of your back, you’re in the right place. Horizontal carry is my go-to method for everyday carry (EDC) because it keeps the knife out of the way, makes it easy to draw while sitting, and distributes weight comfortably. But not every knife is suited for this setup. The best horizontal carry fixed blade knives need a specific blend of features: a compact profile, a handle designed for a solid grip, and a sheath system that’s built for the job.
Let’s get straight to the point and look at some of the top contenders for 2025.
Bradford Guardian 3.5: This is a modern classic for a reason. The Guardian 3.5 hits a sweet spot in size, being long enough for serious cutting tasks but short enough to carry horizontally without printing. Bradford’s Sheath Clip System is fantastic, offering multiple mounting options right out of the box, including a low-profile clip perfect for horizontal carry on your belt. The ergonomics are top-notch, making it feel like an extension of your hand.
White River Knives Backpacker Pro: Designed with outdoorspeople in mind, the Backpacker Pro is a brilliant horizontal carry option. It’s incredibly lightweight and comes with a top-tier leather sheath that has a built-in fire steel loop. The knife itself is a superb slicer, and the handle provides excellent control for detailed work. It’s a premium choice that feels both practical and special.
ESEE Izula II: You can’t talk about hard-use small fixed blades without mentioning ESEE. The Izula II is a tank. It’s simple, incredibly durable, and has a massive aftermarket for custom scales and sheaths. While the standard sheath is okay, pairing this knife with an aftermarket horizontal-carry sheath from a maker like Armatus Carry turns it into an absolute beast of a carry system.
Tops Knives B.O.B. Brothers of Bushcraft Fieldcraft: This one is a bit larger but still manages horizontal carry beautifully thanks to its clever sheath design. The Fieldcraft is a true outdoor survival knife, but its flat profile and the included sheath that can be configured for horizontal wear make it a viable option for those who want a more substantial blade that can handle anything.
CRKT Biwa: For those on a budget, the CRKT Biwa is a fantastic find. Designed by Jesper Voxnaes, it has great lines and a very functional design. It includes a glass-reinforced nylon sheath with a clip that’s ready for horizontal carry right out of the box. It’s a no-fuss, reliable tool that proves you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a solid horizontal carry fixed blade knife.
When choosing your knife, think about blade steel, handle material, and most importantly, the sheath. A great knife with a poor sheath is a pain to carry. Look for systems that offer secure retention and a solid, adjustable mounting solution. The right horizontal carry setup can completely change how you use and carry a fixed blade.
FAQ
Why would I choose horizontal carry over other methods?
Horizontal carry, especially in the small of the back, is great for concealment and comfort. It keeps the knife’s handle from digging into your side or hip when you sit down, and it allows for a very natural drawing motion. For everyday tasks or driving, it’s often much more convenient than a vertical carry on your hip.
Is horizontal carry legal?
Laws regarding knife carry vary drastically by state, county, and city. Carrying a knife horizontally, particularly if it’s concealed, can sometimes fall under different regulations than open vertical carry. It is your responsibility to know the local laws where you live and travel. Always check with local law enforcement or legal resources to ensure you are carrying within the bounds of the law.
What makes a sheath good for horizontal carry?
A good horizontal carry sheath needs two main things: secure retention and a stable mounting system. The knife should click in or be held tightly enough that it won’t fall out, even when bending over. The belt clips or loops should be positioned to keep the knife from rotating or bouncing on your belt. Many great sheaths use two attachment points for maximum stability.
Can any small fixed blade be carried horizontally?
Technically, with the right aftermarket sheath, yes. But some knives are designed from the ground up for it. Knives with symmetrical handles or pommels that don’t have a large hook work best, as they present a flat profile against your body. A knife with a dramatic finger guard or a large lanyard bead might be uncomfortable to carry this way.
What blade length is best for horizontal carry?
For most people, a blade under 4 inches is ideal. This keeps the overall length of the knife and sheath short enough to fit comfortably between your spine and side without being obtrusive. This is one reason why the knives on our list of the 5 Best Horizontal Carry Fixed Blade Knives (2025 Edition) tend to be in that compact size range.
Are there any safety concerns with horizontal carry?
The primary concern is drawing the knife safely. Since the blade edge is typically facing up or down along your back, you need to be very conscious of your hand placement during the draw to avoid cutting yourself. Practice drawing the knife slowly and deliberately until the motion becomes second nature. Also, be mindful when reaching behind your back for other reasons.