A reliable pocket knife is the ultimate everyday carry tool, blending utility with preparedness. Whether you’re opening packages, tackling outdoor tasks, or simply needing a dependable cutting instrument, the right knife makes all the difference. The market is flooded with options, making the choice overwhelming.
Our expert team has rigorously tested dozens of models to identify the very best. This roundup focuses on performance, durability, ergonomics, and overall value. From timeless classics to modern tactical designs, here are the top pocket knives that have earned a spot in our gear for 2025.
Our Top Pocket Knife Picks for 2025
- Kershaw Leek Pocket Knife
- Benchmade Osborne 940 EDC Knife
- CRKT Drifter EDC Folding Pocket Knife
- Buck Knives 110 Folding Hunter Knife
- SOG Terminus XR G10 Folding Pocket Knife
- Cold Steel Recon 1 Series Tactical Folding Knife
- LEATHERMAN Skeletool RX Multitool
- CIVIVI Baby Banter Pocket Folding Knife
- Spyderco Paramilitary 2 Folding Knife
Kershaw Leek Pocket Knife
The Kershaw Leek is a quintessential everyday carry knife that strikes a perfect balance between size and capability. Its slim, lightweight design disappears in your pocket, while the 3-inch drop-point blade is ready for a wide array of cutting tasks. Made in the USA, it’s a benchmark for quality in its class.
Performance is ensured by the high-performance Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel blade, which is known for excellent edge retention and ease of resharpening. The spring-assisted opening provides quick, one-handed deployment. The 410 stainless steel handle is both corrosion-resistant and contoured for a secure, comfortable grip, and the reversible pocket clip offers versatile carry options.
Benchmade Osborne 940
The Benchmade 940, designed by Warren Osborne, is a legendary EDC knife celebrated for its unique reverse-tanto blade and exceptional performance. It combines a remarkably slim profile with a surprisingly long cutting edge, making it both discreet and highly capable for virtually any task.
At its core is a CPM-S30V steel blade, providing first-rate edge retention and corrosion resistance. The handle is constructed from durable 6061-T6 aluminum, which is anodized for a smooth, satin finish that feels great in hand. This knife is built in Oregon City, Oregon, and its ambidextrous design and overall quality make it a top-tier choice for discerning users.
CRKT Drifter EDC Folding Pocket Knife
The CRKT Drifter is an outstanding value-oriented knife that punches well above its weight. It’s a no-fuss, reliable tool designed for daily carry, featuring a compact form factor that is both practical and legal in many areas with blade length restrictions.
Its gray titanium nitride blade coating enhances corrosion resistance, while the thumb stud allows for fast, one-handed opening. The handle is made from textured black G10, a material known for providing an exceptional grip in all conditions, whether your hands are wet, dry, or dirty. For an affordable and dependable EDC, the Drifter is a consistent performer.
Buck Knives 110 Folding Hunter
The Buck 110 Folding Hunter is an American icon that revolutionized the folding knife industry. With its classic brass bolsters and ebony wood handle, it offers a timeless aesthetic that is instantly recognizable. This knife is built for strength and reliability, making it a trusted companion for generations of outdoorsmen.
Its 3-3/4″ clip point blade is made from 420HC stainless steel, which Buck heat-treats to achieve excellent strength, edge retention, and corrosion resistance. The proven lockback design locks the blade firmly in place for safe, powerful use. While it’s heavier than modern EDC knives, its performance and heritage are undeniable. A leather sheath is included for secure carry.
SOG Terminus XR G10 Folding Pocket Knife
The SOG Terminus XR is a rugged and versatile folding knife built for daily hard use. It features a straightforward, no-nonsense design with a textured G10 handle that provides a solid grip. The stonewashed hardware gives it a tough, utilitarian look that can handle the rigors of an active lifestyle.
This knife stands out with its three distinct opening methods: a thumb stud, a flipper “kick,” and the innovative XR locking mechanism. The XR lock is a crossbar style lock that offers a secure, snappy action and is designed to be easily adjustable over the knife’s lifespan. This level of deployment versatility is rare in a knife at this price point.
Cold Steel Recon 1 Series Tactical Folding Knife
The Cold Steel Recon 1 is a hard-use tactical folder built to withstand extreme conditions. Despite its relatively thin and lightweight design, it is an exceptionally strong and resilient tool. It’s the go-to choice for those who need a knife that can perform under pressure and in demanding environments.
It features a premium American CPM-S35VN steel blade with a Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating for enhanced corrosion resistance and durability. The handle is made from high-quality G-10, which provides a secure and aggressive grip even when wearing gloves or in wet conditions. Combined with Cold Steel’s legendary Tri-Ad lock, this knife offers unparalleled strength and reliability.
LEATHERMAN Skeletool RX Multitool
The Leatherman Skeletool RX is a specialized multitool designed with emergency situations in mind. Its standout feature is a 154CM serrated blade that is optimized for cutting seatbelts and other materials, along with a built-in carbide glass breaker. This makes it an essential tool for first responders, EMTs, or anyone prioritizing preparedness.
Beyond its emergency features, it retains the core functionality of the Skeletool series. It includes needlenose pliers, wire cutters, a carabiner with a bottle opener, and a bit driver. The lightweight, skeletal frame reduces weight without sacrificing strength. Backed by a 25-year warranty, it’s a tool built for a lifetime of reliable service.
CIVIVI Baby Banter Pocket Folding Knife
The CIVIVI Baby Banter, designed by Ben Petersen, is the perfect small-form-factor EDC knife. It proves that a compact knife does not have to sacrifice performance or ergonomics. Its small size makes it ideal for discreet carry or for those who prefer a minimalist tool.
It features a tough and durable Nitro-V steel blade, a steel known for its good edge retention and ease of sharpening. The textured G10 handle is surprisingly comfortable for its size, providing a secure grip that belies its compact dimensions. The titanium thumb stud adds a touch of premium quality, making the Baby Banter a small knife with a big presence.
Spyderco Paramilitary 2 Folding Knife
The Spyderco Paramilitary 2 is widely regarded as one of the best all-around folding knives ever made. It has achieved a cult-like status among knife enthusiasts for its perfect blend of cutting performance, ergonomics, and lightweight design. It’s a benchmark against which many other tactical and EDC knives are measured.
Its signature features include a large, leaf-shaped blade with Spyderco’s iconic Round Hole for easy, ambidextrous opening, and the highly effective Compression Lock mechanism for secure, one-handed operation. The handle is contoured to fit the hand perfectly, and the G10 scales provide a superb grip. For a top-tier, do-it-all folding knife, the Paramilitary 2 remains a top contender.
What to Look For in a Pocket Knife
After testing dozens of models for our list of the 9 best pocket knives in 2025, I can tell you that the right choice boils down to a few key factors. It is not just about picking the coolest-looking tool; it is about how it fits your hand, your tasks, and your lifestyle. Getting this right means you will have a reliable companion for years, not a drawer-dweller.
First, consider the blade steel. This is the heart of the knife. Lower-end steels like 8Cr13MoV are perfectly fine for light, everyday tasks and are very budget-friendly. They will need sharpening more often but are easy to maintain. A step up, steels like D2 offer much better edge retention, meaning you will spend less time at the sharpening stone. For the top performers, look for premium steels like CPM-S30V or CPM-20CV. These hold an edge for a very long time and resist corrosion well, but they come with a higher price tag. For most people, a good middle-ground steel like 154CM or VG-10 hits the sweet spot of performance and value.
Next, think about the handle material and overall ergonomics. A knife can have the best steel in the world, but if it is uncomfortable to hold, you will not want to use it. G-10 is a fantastic, grippy material that is lightweight and durable. Micarta is another favorite; it feels great in the hand and gets better with age. For a more premium feel, titanium is tough and lightweight. When you are looking at a knife, imagine holding it and performing a cutting motion. Are there hot spots that would cause blisters? Does it feel secure in a forward and reverse grip?
The deployment and locking mechanism are also critical for safety and one-handed use. Thumb studs and flipper tabs are the most common opening methods. A flipper tab can make deployment incredibly fast and fidget-friendly. For the lock, a frame lock or liner lock is common and very effective. These are strong and easy to use with one hand. A crossbar lock (like Benchmade’s Axis lock) is another superb option, allowing you to close the knife just as easily with one hand. Finally, do not forget about the pocket clip. A deep-carry clip is my personal preference as it keeps the knife discreet and secure in your pocket. Make sure it can be configured for tip-up or tip-down carry to suit your preference.
FAQ
What is the most reliable type of pocket knife lock?
From my testing, the most reliable locks are generally the frame lock and the crossbar lock (also known as an Axis lock). Frame locks are incredibly strong because a portion of the handle itself moves to lock the blade in place. Crossbar locks are fantastic because they are ambidextrous, easy to operate with one hand, and very strong. Liner locks are also very common and reliable, but a well-made frame or crossbar lock often feels more robust under heavy use.
Is it legal to carry a pocket knife every day?
Laws vary significantly by your city, state, and country, so you absolutely must check your local regulations. Generally, knives with blades under 3 inches are more widely accepted. However, some places have restrictions on how the knife opens, like banning assisted-opening or automatic knives. Your best bet is to research the specific laws in your area before you make a purchase and carry it with you.
How often should I sharpen my pocket knife?
There is no single answer, as it depends entirely on how much you use it and what you are cutting. A knife used daily for opening boxes might need a quick touch-up on a honing rod every few weeks and a full sharpening every few months. If you are cutting abrasive materials like cardboard all day, you might need to sharpen it weekly. The key is to not let it get completely dull. A slightly dull knife is harder to sharpen than a regularly maintained one. Listen to the blade; if it starts to tear material instead of slicing it, it is time for a sharpening.
What is the best pocket knife for someone on a tight budget?
You can get a fantastic, reliable pocket knife without spending a lot of money. Brands like Civivi, Kizer, and Ontario Knife Company offer exceptional value. Look for models with D2 steel, which provides excellent edge retention for the price, and handles made from G-10 or FRN for durability and grip. Many of our top picks for the 9 best pocket knives in 2025 include budget-friendly options that perform far above their price point.
Are more expensive pocket knives worth the money?
In many cases, yes, but with diminishing returns. A $150 knife is often a massive jump in quality, materials, and design over a $50 knife. You are typically getting better blade steel that holds an edge longer, superior handle materials like titanium or carbon fiber, and more refined craftsmanship. However, the difference between a $300 knife and a $500 knife might be much more subtle and come down to exotic materials or limited production. For most users, the sweet spot is between $100 and $250.