What’s the best pocket folding knife for you? If you’re like me, you probably have the same question. I’ve been collecting knives for a long time now and really started to get serious about it after I had a hunting experience. Now, not just any blade will do when it comes to camping, hiking, or survival! So, if you’re looking for a good blade to take with you on your next expedition or excursion, or even just in your day-to-day routine, then look no further.
Today, we will be discussing about 6 of the best folding blade knifes that are available on the market. The reason behind selecting these specific knives from many options is the fact that they have high ratings for different aspects contributing to their quality beyond doubt.
However, before we jump onto the discussion, let first take a look at a brief buying guide to the best pocket folding knives.
Buying Guide to the Best Pocket Folding Knives
So, you have finally decided to buy your favourite folding blade knife. Hence, below we have mentioned some of the crucial points to consider while opting for a folding blade knife!
1. Sharpness
When it comes to folding blade knives, the most important thing is the sharpness of the blade. You want a knife that will cut through anything without any effort, and you want a blade length that’s perfect for your needs.
The best way to test out a folding blade knife is by trying it out on some different materials. If you’re looking for something that can handle cutting through ropes or wires, then go ahead and try it on those things first.
You should also consider how much weight you want to carry around with you when you’re using this knife. If you’re going on an extended trip outdoors where there may be more than one person carrying their own gear, then having something light-weight will make all the difference in the world!
2. Blade Length
The second thing to consider is blade length. Depending on what kind of tasks you’ll be using your knife for, this may vary from person to person. For example, if you’re going camping and plan to use it for chopping wood or cutting rope, then a longer blade may be preferable because it provides more power behind each strike while still being easy enough to control with one hand (if necessary).
On the other hand, if all you need is something small enough to fit in your pocket but still big enough for everyday tasks like opening boxes or slicing fruit, then a shorter blade would probably suffice!
3. Blade Material
The blade material is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a folding blade knife. Blade materials can include stainless steel, carbon steel, and titanium. Stainless steel is affordable and easy to maintain, but it’s not as strong or durable as other blade materials.
Carbon steel is more durable than stainless steel and has an edge-holding ability that makes it ideal for outdoor use. Titanium is the strongest of all three types of blades because it is lightweight and able to withstand most conditions without rusting or dulling.
4. Handle Comfort
The handle comfort of a folding blade knife refers to how well the knife fits into your hand and how much pressure you need to exert in order for the blade to open up completely. A comfortable handle should be lightweight so that you don’t have any strain on your wrist while using it; however, this doesn’t mean that you should sacrifice strength just to achieve comfort.
Some knives have a curved design that helps reduce stress on joints while others have contours along their handles that provide an ergonomic fit around your palm while still providing enough room for manoeuvrability when cutting through different materials like wood or cardboard boxes.
5. Budget
In terms of budget, there are many options available on the market today. You can get a folding blade knife for as little as $5, but if you’re looking for something that will hold up over time and provide an excellent value for your money, we recommend spending between $100-$500 on your purchase.
If you’re buying for use in intense tasks (e.g., camping, backpacking, hiking, hunting), then you may want to consider spending more for a sturdy and reliable tool. However, if you just want something to slice your apples or trim some garden branches, then a cheaper model may do the trick!
6. Robustness
The last thing you need to consider when buying a folding blade knife is whether or not it’s going to be robust enough to handle the tasks you need it for. If you’re purchasing a knife for light use, like opening boxes or cutting twine, then a cheaper model may be all you need.
But if you want something that can stand up to heavy use, like chopping through branches, then you’ll need to spend more money in order to get something that will last.
My 6 Recommendations of the Best Folding Blade Knives
1. Benchmade 556BK-S30V Mini Folding Knife
If you’re looking for a knife that will stand up to any form, type, or kind of rugged activity, then the Benchmade 556BK-S30V Mini Folding Knife is the one for you.
The handle grip is made of glass filled nylon and is textured, so it won’t slip out of your hands when you’re cutting something, even if they’re wet or oily. It also comes with an axis-locking mechanism and reversible clip and lanyard hole for easy carry.
And the best part? This knife is made with CPM-S30V stainless steel, which means it has rust resistance. That means no matter what kind of messes you get yourself into (or how much water or dirt you find yourself in), this knife will still be ready for whatever challenge comes next.
Pros
- Suited for any form/type of rugged activity
- Made with CPM-S30V stainless steel with rust resistance
- The handle grip is made of glass filled nylon and is textured
- Comes with an axis-locking mechanism
- Has a reversible clip and Lanyard hole for easy carry
Cons
- Blade is not the sharpest for adventurous uses!
FAQ
1. Is it possible to open it with one hand?
To open and close the blade, only one hand is required.
2. Is there a clip on this knife for wearing it in your pocket?
Yes, you will receive a pocket clip with your purchase of this item.
3. Is there a guarantee from Benchmade that this knife will stay sharp for life?
I’m certain it does. You can do it yourself by obtaining sharpening tips and performing it yourself.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Benchmade 556BK-S30V Mini Folding Knife is a reliable and sturdy knife for use in various rugged activities. It is designed to have a durable CPM-S30V stainless steel blade that also has rust resistance.
It also has a textured glass filled nylon handle that offers better grip over time. All these definitely enhance the experience of using this knife. You can get it at a reasonable price on Amazon.com!
2. Spyderco Military Signature Folding Knife
The Spyderco Military Signature Folding Knife is a great choice for anyone who wants a high quality, durable, and versatile knife.
The blade is made from CPM S30V stainless steel, which means it’s strong enough to handle any task you throw at it. It’s also highly corrosion resistant, so you can use it for years without worrying about it getting dull or breaking. This knife is extremely light and compact, it weighs only 2.47 ounces, which makes it easy to carry around everywhere you go. You’ll barely even notice the weight in your pocket!
The Spyderco Military Signature Folding Knife comes with LinerLock mechanisms that allow you to open and close the blade quickly with one hand. It also comes with textured G-10 scales that give you an improved grip on the handle so there’s less chance of dropping the knife when using it in wet conditions such as rain or snow.
Pros
- Even suited for military use
- High Quality CPM S30V stainless steel blade
- Extremely light and durable
- Highly versatile for any use
- Comes with LinerLock mechanisms and textured G-10 scales
Cons
- It’s a bit large for a folding knife!
FAQ
1. Because there are numerous Spyderco knockoffs available, I’m wondering if anyone can confirm whether mine is real?
There are numerous tutorials on YouTube that will lead you through the process of telling an authentic knife from a fake one.
2. Is this a knife manufactured in the United States of America?
Yes. It was created in the Colorado town of Golden.
3. How long is the blade on the military g10?
The cutting edge measures 3 9/16 inches, and the overall blade measures just 1/16 inch less than 4 inches. This is the knife I carry with me often; it has a razor-sharp edge that it holds and can sharpen even more.
Conclusion
Breaking down all these cool features, it’s simply a no-brainer for anyone to own this knife today. The handle is very unique and truly phenomenal for any use. The steel can handle hundreds of cuts without dulling or breaking and is super durable.
If you want to add an incredibly versatile, dependable, lightweight, and sharp knife to your collection that can help you in your daily civilian, survival, or military use, you should definitely try the Spyderco Military Signature Folding Knife.
3. Spyderco McBee Specialty Utility Pocket Knife
The Spyderco McBee Specialty Utility Pocket Knife is the perfect tool for all your outdoor adventures. The blade is crafted from high tensile titanium, which gives it the strength to endure any kind of activity, including chopping branches and removing small twigs.
It also has an in-built flat saber grind, which means that there are no serrations or teeth on it. This means that you will not have to worry about getting your hands dirty while using it. The Spyderco McBee Specialty Utility Pocket Knife is completely smooth with no serrations or teeth, which makes it ideal for everyday use as well as outdoor purposes.
The blade has a super safe locking mechanism that ensures that the knife does not open accidentally when placed in your pocket or bag.
Pros
- Comes with a super safe locking mechanism
- The blade is crafted from high tensile titanium
- Has an in-built flat saber grind
- Completely smooth with no serrations or teeth
- Suited for all type of outdoor purposes
Cons
- The knife is a bit short for a larger hand size!
FAQ
1. What is the blade made of?
The blade is made of high tensile titanium!
2. Where precisely is this knife made?
From start to finish, this knife is produced in the United States!
3. Is this something that might be used for woodworking?
It’s possible that it would work for wood carving, but I’m not sure; it would probably depend on the scale of the sculpture.
This knife’s blade is ideal for use as a camp or bushcraft knife because it is both extremely sharp and comfortable in the hand; nevertheless, its size may make it unsuitable for carving.
Conclusion
If you are a fan of the Spyderco tactical folding knives, then you will be a fan of the Spyderco McBee Specialty Utility Pocket Knife. This popular product is an amazing utility knife with several super cool features. It has a safe blade lock and a body made of high tensile titanium.
The blade is crafted from high tensile titanium as well and it is completely smooth with no serrations or teeth. This unique product is an essential item to own if you love having the very best tactical knife available on the market today.
4. Cold Steel Recon 1 Folding Camping Knife
The Cold Steel Recon 1 Folding Camping Knife is the perfect tool for camping, hiking, hunting, and more. It’s built from CPM S35VN high tensile steel, which is known for its ability to resist shock and retain its edge far longer than other types of steel. The blade also features a super comfortable and secure G-10 grip that helps you hold onto it no matter what conditions you’re in.
The Cold Steel Recon 1 Folding Camping Knife also has a built in TriAd lock mechanism that makes it easy to open and close with one hand, even when you’re wearing gloves or when your hands are cold or wet.
The knife comes with an innovative sheath that flips out for easy access and then back into place when you’re done using it, so you don’t have to worry about losing anything important!
Pros
- Easily suited for the toughest jobs
- Built from CPM S35VN high tensile steel
- Comes with a super comfortable and secure G-10 grip
- Has a built in TriAd lock mechanism
- Is super resistant to shock and jerks
Cons
- The knife is not suited for very extreme tasks!
FAQ
1. Is the tip of the clip point on the Recon1 weak as it is on the Buck 110 and the Pm2?
I would say it’s a bit stronger. The PM2 has a notoriously needle thin tip. That being said, if you really need tip strength maybe take a look at the tanto version of the recon 1.
2. What is the blade’s thickness?
My best assessment is that it is approximately 3/16 inch on the spine.
3. What is the blade’s length?
The blade is approximately 3-3/4” in length.
Conclusion
The Recon 1 folding knife by Cold Steel has it all. It’s large enough to serve as an excellent self-defence tool, yet compact and portable enough to be brought anywhere. It’s also extremely sharp and durable, making it more than capable of performing tough jobs from around the house that include cutting boxes and branches.
Overall, the Recon 1 folding knife by Cold Steel makes for a fantastic addition to any hunter’s kit or woodsman’s gear and is perfect for those who want an affordable tool that will last them for many years.
5. Off-Grid Large Folding Knife
The Off-Grid Large Folding Knife is a great option for those looking for an affordable, durable knife that can handle all sorts of tasks.
This knife features a Cryogenic D2 Steel blade that is extremely tough and durable. The newer generation of steel means that it’s easier to sharpen and keep sharp than the older versions, so you don’t have to worry about dulling your blade or having to replace it any time soon.
The Off-Grid Large Folding Knife also has a non-reflective profile, so you don’t have to worry about scaring off your prey while you’re hunting. This knife is field tested and ready to go right out of the box, it’ll last through anything! Finally, this knife is extremely lightweight: just over 5 oz., so it won’t weigh down your pack when you’re out on an adventure in the woods or mountains.
Pros
- Comes with the newer Cryogenic D2 Steel blade
- Has a non-reflective profile
- Extremely budget friendly
- Field tested for all sorts of tasks
- Extremely light-weight and durable
Cons
- Lacks a thumb stud!
FAQ
1. How long is this knife in total, including the handle?
The length is approximately 8.25 inches.
2. Are there any American companies that manufacture off-grid knives?
No, they are manufactured in Taiwan or China, but the great majority of knives and knife parts are now produced outside of the United States.
3. Is this knife really nice?
Yes. It’s fantastic! It’s my daily carry knife, which I use for everything.
Conclusion
The Cold Steel Recon 1 is a solid and very inexpensive EDC folding knife. It’s a good choice for anyone in the market for a super simple, very low-cost, off-the-grid knife. If you carry your knife in your pocket every day, it won’t beat you up too much. It has been specifically designed to take the abuse without much wear or tear!
6. Cold Steel AD-10 Tactical Folding Knife
The Cold Steel AD-10 Tactical Folding Knife is a great option for anyone looking for an all-purpose blade. It comes with a premium and durable S35VN all-purpose blade that is designed to deliver great performance in any situation.
The knife also has an in-built 3D machined G-10 Comfortable and secure grip that offers a firm hold on the handle, making it easy to use for longer periods of time without fatigue. The Cold Steel AD-10 Tactical Folding Knife also comes with a TriAd Locking mechanism that provides added safety when using the knife.
This locking mechanism has been tested extensively by military personnel and law enforcement officers, who have used it extensively in many different environments including combat zones as well as training facilities.
Pros
- Comes with a premium and all-purpose S35VN stainless steel blade
- Delivers great performance in any situation
- Has an in-built 3D machined G-10 Comfortable and secure grip
- Comes with a TriAd Locking mechanism
- Equipped with a thumb stud and dual pocket clips
Cons
- It’s a bit pricy!
FAQ
1. How can I be sure I’m not getting a counterfeit Chinese version of the cold steel AD-10?
Examine the knife thoroughly. Examine each and every detail. The Chinese copies are really excellent; however, they frequently lack some of the finer features. Watch videos on the AD-10 on YouTube.
Inquire about what other knife reviewers have to say about it. Another obvious red flag would be the price.
2. Isn’t this something that falls under the category of gravity knife?
That’s for sure not a gravity knife. The detent, which holds the blade closed, can be loosened, as it is on many other types of knives, allowing the blade to open.
When the detent is released, the blades of many other knives, including those with button locks, compression locks, and axis locks, as well as the AD-15, can swing open.
3. Why is the green knife less expensive?
It comes down to two words: supply and demand. The black one is in much higher demand than the green one. If there was a rush in demand for the green ones, the price would very immediately skyrocket.
Conclusion
The Cold Steel AD-10 Tactical Folding Knife is a great tool to have in any emergency. It has a sharp and high quality blade that can cut through anything. The blade is made of S35VN steel which will last a lifetime and comes with an in-built G-10 comfortable grip.
The Tri Ad Locking mechanism will keep the knife together when it is folded. The AD-10 also has dual pocket clips so you can carry it with ease.
Additional Resources
If you are looking for more tutorials, walkthroughs and troubleshooting about camping and enjoying the outdoors, here are some additional posts to check out:
The Bottom Line
When you are purchasing a folding blade knife, you have to keep in mind that different type are required for different purpose. The best folding blade knife is the one which you will use effectively during your work. They have different length, width, handle, and price so it is essential to select the right folding blade knife while purchasing.
Once you find the right design, you’ll be able to use your knife forever. The folding blade knives may be a bit cheaper than their fixed alternatives, but they’re far better in terms of quality and variety. These knives look great and perform just as well. It won’t be easy to choose the perfect one for your collection because there are so many options. But that’s okay because no matter which one you pick; it’ll surely be a good one!
Also, if you are highly confused about which one to buy, just go with any one I have mentioned above. All of them are the best ones according to their price point and are the best bang for the buck! If you have any tips or stories to share with us, feel free to leave your comment below, but for now…Be Safe And Have Fun.!