The 40 Best EDC Knives – [Reviewed]

In all areas of life, it’s essential to be well-prepared. Going camping? Bring a first aid kit. Going to see a movie? Use the bathroom on the way into the theater. And at all times, be prepared to defend yourself. For many people, this means carrying a knife.

We’ve looked at all the best everyday carry knives to find the best EDC knife for every purpose. We’ve looked at folding knives, neck knives, boot knives, and corrosion-resistant diving knives. And of course, we’ve found the best EDC folding knife and best EDC pocket knife so you’ll be covered no matter what your needs are.

One thing we’ve noticed is that a ton of mail-order knives arrive dull or in serious need of honing. This is normal, especially when knives are shipped internationally. It’s also normal for double-edged knives, since leaving one edge dull means the knife is not legally considered a dagger, which would be illegal to sell in many states.

40 Best EDC Knives

1. MTECH USA Mt-665Bk

The MT-665BK is MTech’s base model karambit knife.

Key Features

• 3 ¾-inch G10 nylon handle
• 3 ¾-inch powder coated stainless steel karambit blade
• Large thumb hole on the blade
• Includes nylon MOLLE sheath

The MTech MT-665BK is a viciously-curved 7 ½-inch karambit knife, with a design that’s half blade and half handle. The blade has a wide ricasso, or cut out, to keep your fingers from sliding forward. And the nylon handle has a full tang, making it rugged and durable.

The grip is on the narrow side, and maybe awkward if you have long hands, and the blade needs honing before you put it to any real use. That said, this is a budget knife, so some issues are to be expected. And for the price, you can’t beat this nylon MOLLE sheath. It clicks into the ricasso, so you can even carry the knife upside-down.

Pros

• Good sheath retention
• Sturdy full tang construction
• Affordable

Cons

• Flat grip
• Needs honing out of the box

This is a well-constructed, affordable knife that serves as a good basis for comparison.

2. DevilFish New Hawkbill Karambit

The DevilFish Karambit’s 4-inch ABS handle is ideal for larger hands.

Key Features

• 4-inch ABS plastic handle
• 3 ¼-inch carbon steel karambit blade
• Large thumb hole on the blade
• Includes ABS plastic sheath with lanyard

The DevilFish New Hawkbill Karambit has a 3 ¼-inch carbon steel karambit blade that looks just like the bill of a hawk. Hence the name. The 4-inch ABS plastic handle is thick and long enough for large hands and is easy to hold onto.

This knife clicks into its sheath and can be carried upside-down or right-side-up, on your belt, your neck, or the outside of your clothes. And the blade arrives razor-sharp, so you can take it out of the mail and start cutting steaks.

Pros

• Sturdy full tang construction
• Snug-fitting sheath
• Generous grip
• Razor-sharp out of the box
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Flimsy handle material

This affordable knife arrives exceptionally sharp, so you’re ready to go from day one.

3. MASTER USA MU-1120PK

The Master USA MU-1120PK is forged as a single piece, making it exceptionally durable for an inexpensive knife.

Key Features

• 3 ½-inch stainless steel handle with pink plastic grip
• 3 ¼-inch stainless steel blade
• Large thumb hole and 3 small lanyard holes on the handle
• Includes ABS sheath with lanyard

The Master USA MU-1120PK is forged from a single piece of stainless steel, with a 3 ¼-inch blade and a 3 ½-inch grip. There are small textured grips attached to the handle for comfort, but they’re bolted on, and the main body of the handle is steel.

This is a budget knife. It’s dull right on arrival, and the sheath retention is fairly weak, so you’ll need to carry it upright. That said, the design is as durable and rugged as they come.

Pros

• Single-piece construction
• Well-sized for small hands
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Relatively loose sheath
• Needs honing out of the box

If you want a reliable, affordable knife that will get the job done, this is a solid choice.

4. Stone River Gear Ceramic

The Stone River Gear Ceramic Knife’s fat, paracord-wrapped handle is comfortable and secure to grip.

Key Features

• 3 ½-inch paracord-wrapped handle
• 2 ¼-inch ceramic tanto blade
• Lanyard built into the handle
• Includes Kydex sheath

The Stone River Gear Ceramic is constructed from a single piece of ceramic. The 2 ¼-inch tanto blade is exceptionally sharp, and the 3 ½-inch handle is paracord-wrapped, providing a comfortable grip as well as an emergency paracord supply.

Be careful about the sheath for this knife; it has metal rivets, which can potentially dull your blade. That said, because it’s made from ceramic, you’re getting good edge retention. Just don’t use this knife as a prybar.

Pros

• Single-piece construction
• Razor-sharp out of the box
• Holds its edge well
• Large, comfortable handle

Cons

• The sheath can dull your blade
• Not designed for prying

Like most ceramic knives, this one is sharp enough to shave with when it shows up on your doorstep.

5. Stone River Gear Skinning

The Stone River Gear Skinning is made from a single piece of beautiful white ceramic.

Key Features

• 4 ½-inch paracord-wrapped ceramic handle
• 2-inch flat ceramic skinning blade
• Lanyard built into the handle
• Includes Kydex sheath

The Stone River Gear Ceramic Skinning Neck Knife is specifically designed for — what else? — skinning, specifically small game. Its 2-inch ceramic blade is wide and flat, which makes it well-suited for sliding between skin and flesh. And the 4 ½-inch paracord-wrapped handle provides a secure grip even if your hand is covered in mud or blood.

As with any ceramic knife, don’t use this one for prying, and try not to drop it on hard surfaces. Ceramic blades can be exceptionally sharp, but they’re not designed to take abuse.

Pros

• Single-piece construction
• Razor-sharp out of the box
• Holds its edge well
• Large, comfortable handle

Cons

• Sheath can dull your blade
• Not designed for prying

For skinning small game or other delicate tasks, this skinning knife is a solid choice.

6. KA-BAR 11

The Ka-Bar 11 is a shorter, slimmer version of the classic Ka-Bar you know and love.

Key Features

• 4-inch powder coated stainless steel handle
• 3 ⅞-inch powder coated stainless steel blade
• Includes a Kydex MOLLE sheath

The Ka-Bar 1117 is a slim stainless steel knife that’s forged from a single piece of stainless steel. This makes it rugged and reliable enough to take a beating and keep on cutting. The 3 ⅞-inch blade is very sharp on arrival. However, the 4-inch handle is just a frame and is not very comfortable to grip on its own. For more comfort, consider wrapping it with paracord.

This knife has a Kydex sheath that offers good retention and won’t dull your blade. It’s designed to mount to MOLLE webbing, but it’s equally easy to lash to your ankle, your belt, or around your neck.

Pros

• Razor sharp blade
• Holds its edge well
• Single-piece construction
• High-quality sheath

Cons

• Uncomfortable grip

This Ka-Bar 11 knife’s slim profile is ideal for slipping into a pocket or carrying from your neck.

7. Meyerco MANKR

The Meyerco MANKR’s blunt tip serrated blade is truly unique.

Key Features

• 3-inch glass-filled nylon handle
• 3-inch stainless steel blunt tip serrated blade
• Includes nylon sheath with belt clip and lanyard

The Meyerco MANKR is a unique knife that’s purpose-built for cutting rope. It has a 3-inch blade that features deep, scalloped serrations and a blunt tip. The full tang handle is constructed from fiberglass reinforced nylon, with a non-slip diamond grip that’s perfect for sawing.

Be careful about the sheath on this knife. It fits loosely, so you’ll want to carry the knife in an upright position only. On the other hand, it’s very affordable.

Pros

• Perfect for cutting heavy rope
• Sharp serrations
• Full tang construction
• Affordable

Cons

• Relatively loose sheath

If you need your EDC knife to cut through rope-like butter, this is a solid choice.

8. Tactical Warrior Tanto

The Bud K Tactical Warrior Tanto’s sheath has a built-in emergency signal whistle.

Key Features

• 3 ¾-inch full tang handle with ABS grip
• 3-inch stainless steel tanto blade
• Built-in emergency whistle in sheath
• Includes ABS sheath with lanyard

The Bud K Tactical Warrior Tanto is a 3-inch stainless steel tanto, with a 3 ¾-inch handle that features a textured ABS grip. It won’t slip easily, but it also isn’t very comfortable, although the slim profile makes it easy to carry in a pocket if you so desire.

Alternatively, you can hang the knife from your belt, your bag, or your neck. The ABS sheath clicks securely into place, and won’t release easily. As a bonus, it includes a built-in emergency whistle for calling for help.

Pros

• Snug-fitting sheath
• Full tang construction
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Uncomfortable grip
• Needs honing out of the box

If you’re looking for an affordable neck knife, this is a solid choice.

9. WJ Black

The WJ Black is as rugged a knife as you’ll see at this price.

Key Features

• 5-inch powder coated stainless steel handle
• 3-inch powder coated stainless steel blade with gut hook
• Large finger hole and a small lanyard hole in the handle
• Includes Kydex sheath with carrying chain

The WJ Black Tactical Neck Knife is forged from a piece of powder-coated stainless steel, with a 5-inch handle and a 3-inch blade that has a gut hook on the end. This is perfect for gutting fish or game while drawing the knife easily towards yourself.

This knife is very reasonably priced, especially considering the quality. That said, the flat grip isn’t very comfortable. You’ll want to wrap it with paracord if you’re using it often. That said, the Kydex sheath is very secure, a great choice for hanging the knife from a backpack or around your neck.

Pros

• Perfect for gutting
• Single-piece construction
• Snug-fitting sheath
• Affordable

Cons

• Uncomfortable grip
• Needs honing out of the box

This neck knife is purpose-built for gutting fish or small game.

10. MTech USA

The MTech MT-20-27RB’s handle features a built-in bottle opener, so you can stay refreshed all day long.

Key Features

• 3.1-inch stainless steel handle
• 1.35-inch double-edged stainless steel blade
• Built-in bottle opener
• Includes nylon sheath with carrying chain and belt slots

The MTech MT-20-27RB is a single-piece stainless steel knife that’s very durable. It ships with a nylon sheath, which offers excellent retention no matter what angle you’re carrying it at. It’s so powerful that some owners replace the stock carrying chain with sturdier paracord.

The double-sided blade is a great feature on a self-defense knife. Be careful, though; this style of knife is illegal in many states, so you’ll want to do some research before you buy.

Pros

• Single-piece construction
• Snug-fitting sheath
• Compact and concealable
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Not very ergonomic
• Illegal in many states

This double-edged knife is an excellent choice for self-defense.

11. MTECH USA MT-665BG

The MTech MT-665BG is an upgraded version of the MT-665BK that started off our list.

Key Features

• 3 ¾-inch G10 nylon handle
• 3 ¾-inch powder coated stainless steel karambit blade
• High-visibility green handle
• Large thumb hole on the blade
• Includes nylon MOLLE sheath

The MTech MT-665BG is a 7 ½-inch karambit knife that’s evenly split between a hooked blade and a green nylon handle. This handle is the difference between the 665BG and the BK we started off with. It’s high-visibility, so you won’t be rummaging around in a backpack or dresser drawer for an all-black knife.

One thing this knife has retained from the original version is the snug-fitting nylon sheath. It provides excellent blade retention, so you can carry your knife in any position.

Pros

• Snug-fitting sheath
• Full tang construction
• Affordable

Cons

• Uncomfortable grip
• Needs honing out of the box

This knife is both affordable and secure in its sheath.

12. Rothco Neck-Knife

The Rothco Neck Knife with Sheath has a thick, sturdy tanto blade and a no-nonsense full tang handle.

Key Features

• 3-inch textured nylon grip
• 3-inch partially serrated tanto blade
• Includes nylon sheath with carrying chain

The Rothco Neck Knife With Sheath is a compact knife with a 3-inch nylon handle. This is perfect if you have smaller hands, although larger individuals may want a knife with a longer handle. The blade also measures 3 inches in length, with a short serrated segment near the hilt for cutting rope.

Be careful using this knife with slick hands, though; the handle is relatively smooth and doesn’t offer much protection to keep your hand from sliding forward.

Pros

• Good size for smaller hands
• Razor-sharp out of the box
• Full tang construction
• Affordable

Cons

• Slick grip
• Relatively loose sheath

This knife is compact, affordable, and well-sized for people with smaller hands.

13. Benchmark Ceramic

The Benchmark Ceramic is exceptionally sharp and holds its edge much longer than a steel blade.

Key Features

• 4 ⅜-inch composite grip
• 3-inch ceramic drop point blade
• Includes a nylon sheath with carrying chain

The Benchmark Ceramic Neck Knife’s 3-inch ceramic drop point blade is perfectly designed for skinning, or for other jobs that require fine control. It arrives at your door razor-sharp and retains a sharp edge for a long time. The 4 ⅜-inch composite grip is comfortable and easy to hold. It only has a partial tang, though, so it’s not as tough as some higher-priced knives.

Pros

• Perfect for skinning or gutting
• Razor-sharp out of the box
• Comfortable grip
• Holds its edge well
• Affordable

Cons

• Only a partial tang
• Not designed for prying
• Not rugged enough for self-defense

Hunters will appreciate this affordable skinning knife.

14. Schrade SCHF10

 

The Schrade SCHF10’s paracord grip has an ergonomic design that’s ideal for smaller hands.

Key Features

• 2.88-inch paracord handle
• 2.31-inch ceramic drop point blade
• Includes nylon fiber sheath with breakaway paracord neckband

The Schrade SCH406 has a wide, ceramic drop point blade that’s designed specifically for skinning. That said, it’s also useful for tasks like whittling or carving, where precision cuts are essential. It’s constructed from a solid piece of ceramic, with a 2.31-inch blade and a 2.88-inch handle. The handle is wrapped with paracord, providing comfort and ergonomics as well as a small supply of rope.

This is a pricey knife, but it’s well worth the investment. Not only is it very well engineered, but the nylon sheath clicks securely in place over the blade, so it can be carried in any position.

Pros

• Single-piece construction
• Well-sized for smaller hands
• Arrives razor-sharp
• Holds its edge well
• Good sheath retention

Cons

• Not suitable for prying
• On the pricier side

If you’re looking for the sharpest skinning knife on the market, look no further.

15. Ontario Rat-1

 

The Ontario Rat-1 comes with a rugged, secure Kydex sheath.

Key Features

• 5-inch stainless steel handle
• 2 ¾-inch stainless steel standard blade
• Includes a Kydex sheath with lanyard holes and lanyard

The Ontario Knife Ranger Neck Knife is a single-piece stainless steel knife that’s built for maximum durability. It has a 2 ¾-inch standard blade, and a 4 ¼-inch handle section that’s forged in an easy-to-grip, ergonomic shape. It’s also pre-drilled with holes in case you want to apply a paracord wrap for even more comfort.

This knife includes a tough Kydex sheath that holds your knife securely in any position. It’s pricey, but it’s a great value.

Pros

• Single-piece construction
• Snug-fitting sheath
• Ergonomic grip
• Made in the USA

Cons

• Needs honing out of the box
• Pricey

If you’re looking for a tough knife that can handle abuse day in and day out, this is a solid choice.

16. MASTER USA Mu-1123Sd

 

The Master USA MU-1123SD includes an emergency signal whistle.

Key Features

• 3 ¾-inch nylon handle
• 3-inch stainless steel drop point blade
• Built-in emergency whistle in sheath
• Includes a Kydex sheath with lanyard

The Master USA MU-1123SD is a stainless steel drop point knife with a 3 ¾-inch nylon handle. The handle features a full tang for durability, and the rugged Kydex sheath provides good retention for the price. It also has a built-in emergency whistle for calling for help.

This is an inexpensive knife designed for everyday tasks like opening boxes, gardening, and food preparation. In tactical situations, we’d go with something a little sturdier.

Pros

• Full tang construction
• Comfortable grip
• Snug-fitting sheath
• Excellent value

Cons

• Needs honing out of the box
• Not rugged enough for survival use

This affordable knife is a solid choice for everyday tasks.

17. Boker Magnum

The Boker Magnum is very comfortable in your hand, with a tacky rubberized grip.

Key Features

• 3 ⅝-inch rubber coated stainless steel handle
• 2 ⅞-inch stainless steel blade
• ABS plastic sheath

The Boker Magnum 02MB210 is a single-piece stainless steel knife that’s both rugged and comfortable to carry. It has a swooped-back 2 ⅞-inch blade, which is ideal for slicing, stabbing, or carving. The skeleton frame handle is easy to grip, with a tacky rubberized coating that won’t slip easily, even in the rain.

This knife has a flat profile, perfect for carrying in your pocket, although the Kydex sheath also provides plenty of retention for carrying on your neck, belt, or backpack.

Pros

• Single-piece construction
• Slim and easy to conceal
• Ergonomic grip
• Snug-fitting sheath

Cons

• Needs honing out of the box

If you want a concealable knife that’s built to last, this is a good choice.

18. MTECH USA MT-664TI

 

The MTech MT-664TI has an ergonomic steel grip with a wide quillion that keeps your hand from slipping forward.

Key Features

• 4-inch stainless steel handle
• 3-inch karambit blade
• Thumb and lanyard holes in the handle
• Includes a nylon sheath

The MTech MT-664TI is a single-piece knife that’s forged from a solid stainless steel block. The karambit blade measures 3 inches in length, and the handle section is 4 inches long. There’s a large thumb hole in the base to help secure your grip, as well as several holes for attaching a lanyard or applying a paracord wrap.

This knife is purpose-built for self-defense. It’s a poor choice for whittling, opening boxes, or preparing food, but it’s also very affordable.

Pros

• Single-piece construction
• Snug-fitting sheath
• Ergonomic grip
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Needs honing out of the box
• Sheath dulls your knife
• Only useful for self-defense

If you’re looking for a durable, inexpensive self-defense knife, this is a good one.

19. Bark River Adventurer II

The Bark River Adventurer II is one of the most beautiful knives on our list.

Key Features

• 4.1-inch micarta handle
• 3.75-inch stainless steel standard blade
• Includes a leather sheath

The Bark River Adventurer II has a 3.75-inch stainless steel standard blade that looks like what you’d see on a well-designed kitchen paring knife. The micarta handle is absolutely gorgeous, with a dark wood grain finish, but it’s still tougher than fiberglass reinforced nylon.

This knife has an ergonomic grip, with a cutout for your forefinger and plenty of jimping to keep your hand from slipping forward. On top of this, the leather sheath is also very good looking. All in all, it’s a fantastic value, even at a relatively steep price.

Pros

• Full tang construction
• Razor-sharp out of the box
• Ergonomic grip
• Beautiful sheath and handle
• Made in the USA

Cons

• Expensive

This knife is razor-sharp right out of the box, so you can put it right to work.

20. Extrema Ratio NK3

 

The Extrema Ratio NK3 is exceptionally rugged and can handle years of abuse.

Key Features

• 3 ¼-inch stainless steel grip
• 2 ¾-inch stainless steel chisel blade with blood grooves
• Includes Kydex MOLLE sheath with paracord lanyard

The Extrema Ratio NK3 is a single-piece stainless steel knife that features a 2 ¾-inch chisel blade. The handle is ergonomic, with a cutout for your forefinger to keep your grip secure. It comes with a quality Kydex sheath that offers plenty of retention no matter how you’re carrying your knife.

This knife is 6.5mm thick, which makes it strong enough to use for chiseling, or even as a prybar should the need arise.

Pros

• Single-piece construction
• Thick rugged design
• Very snug-fitting sheath
• Ergonomic grip

Cons

• Expensive

If you need your knife to double as a chisel or prybar, this is a great selection.

21. Rough Rider Zombie Nick

The Rough Rider Zombie Nick’s bone handle is very good looking for a budget knife.

Key Features

• 2-inch bone handle
• 1 ¼-inch powder coated stainless steel drop point blade
• Includes nylon sheath with lanyard

The Rough Rider Zombie Nick is a compact stainless steel knife with a 1 ¼-inch drop point blade. The 2-inch handle is carved from bone, with a surprisingly ergonomic grip provided your hands are small enough to handle it properly. It also has a full tang, making it more durable than many cheap knives.

The nylon sheath clicks securely onto the top of the handle, so you won’t have to worry about your knife falling out of the sheath. Just keep in mind that a 1 ¼-inch blade is too short for self-defense.

Pros

• Full tang construction
• Ergonomic grip
• Snug-fitting sheath
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Needs honing out of the box
• Very small

If you need a small knife for everyday household tasks, you’ve found it.

22. Bear OPS 1095

The Bear Ops 1095’s handle is coated with a tacky epoxy, keeping your grip secure even if your hands are slick.

Key Features

• 3 ⅜-inch epoxy coated carbon steel handle
• 2 ⅞-inch powder-coated carbon steel blade
• Includes a Kydex sheath with carrying chain

The Bear Ops 1095 is forged from a single piece of carbon steel, which is softer than stainless. As a result, it doesn’t hold its edge as well. On the flip side, it arrives razor-sharp, and carbon steel is very easy to sharpen. Be careful about getting this knife wet, though; carbon steel is prone to corrosion, so you’ll want to keep it lightly oiled.

This knife has a 2 ⅞-inch blade and a 3 ⅜-inch handle. The handle is coated with an epoxy that provides a superior grip, so you won’t need to worry about the knife slipping out of your hand.

Pros

• Single-piece construction
• Razor-sharp out of the box
• Tacky grip
• Easy to sharpen
• Made in the USA

Cons

• Loose-fitting sheath

If you want a knife that’s very easy to sharpen, this is a good choice.

23. Promate Sharp Tip Titanium

 

The Promate Titanium Dive Knife will never corrode because titanium doesn’t rust.

Key Features

• 4.45-inch titanium clip point blade
• 5-inch rubber handle
• Half-serrated back edge with fishing line cutter
• Hammer on bottom of the handle
• Available with a blunt or sharp tip
• Includes ABS plastic leg sheath

The Promate Titanium Dive Knife features a 4.45-inch titanium clip point blade. Alternatively, you can also order a blunt-tipped version for added safety. Either way, because the blade is made of titanium, it will never corrode under any circumstances.

The 5-inch handle is molded from easy-to-grip rubber, and there’s a strike plate at the base for hammering. You’ll also receive an ABS plastic sheath with leg straps, although you can also lash this knife to your belt or backpack.

Pros

• Comfortable grip
• Versatile design
• Will never corrode
• Full tang construction

Cons

• Needs honing out of the box
• The sheath is too snug-fitting

This versatile knife can also be used as a hammer.

24. Atomic Aquatics Ti6

The Atomic Aquatics Ti6 can be ordered with either a sharp or a blunted tip.

Key Features

• 4-inch titanium spear point blade
• 4.5-inch rubber handle with a lanyard hole
• Half-serrated back edge with fishing line cutter
• Hammer on bottom of the handle
• Available with a blunt or sharp tip
• Includes nylon leg/belt sheath

The Atomic Aquatics Ti6 is primarily designed as a dive knife, and that’s okay. We like this because it’s made of titanium, and a knife that can withstand saltwater can stand up to any imaginable conditions on dry land.

This knife’s 4-inch blade can be ordered either with a spear point or a blunt tip. It arrives at your door razor sharp. The rubber handle is very easy to grip, and the leg sheath also has slots for carrying on your belt. It’s on the pricey side, but it’s still a great value.

Pros

• Razor-sharp out of the box
• Snug-fitting sheath
• Versatile design
• Will never corrode
• Full tang construction

Cons

• Pricey

This knife isn’t just corrosion-proof, it’s also very durably built.

25. Promate Barracuda

The Promate Barracuda is very sharp and arrives that way when it’s delivered.

Key Features

• 5-inch titanium clip point blade
• 5-inch rubber handle with a lanyard hole
• Serrated back edge with fishing line cutter
• Hammer on bottom of the handle
• Includes ABS plastic leg sheath

The Promate Barracuda sports a long, 5-inch titanium blade that will stand up to any weather conditions. It arrives razor-sharp, without the need for any honing. The rubberized handle is easy to grip, especially for people with larger hands, and it features a hammer on the bottom.

The only disappointing thing about this knife is the sheath, which ships with sub-par leg straps. Replace them with nylon or paracord right off the bat, and you’ll be good to go.

Pros

• Razor-sharp out of the box
• Will never corrode
• Versatile design
• Full tang construction

Cons

• Flimsy leg straps
• Very large

If you’re looking for a large EDC knife for open carrying, you’ll like the Promate Barracuda.

26. Aqua Lung Deep See

The Aqua Lung Deep See features a blunt-tipped blade that’s designed for slicing or slashing.

Key Features

• 3-inch stainless steel blunt spear tip blade
• 3.5-inch ABS plastic handle with a lanyard hole
• Serrated back of the blade with fishing line cutter
• Includes molded polymer belt sheath

The Aqua Lung Deep See is a short knife that’s designed primarily for cutting lines. The 3-inch blade has a standard edge on one side, and a serrated edge along the back. At the base of the blade, you’ll find a small hooked section for easily slicing through fishing line.

Whether you’re cutting a fine line, a paracord, or a heavy-duty rope, this knife is a solid choice. It comes with a polymer belt sheath, so you’ll always have it close at hand.

Pros

• Perfect for fishing
• Affordable

Cons

• Only a partial tang

This knife is an ideal choice for anglers.

27. Cressi Skorpion

The Cressi Skorpion’s ergonomic handle is constructed from non-slip rubber and features a wide quillion for safety.

Key Features

• 4 ⅜-inch stainless steel clip point blade
• 4 ¾-inch rubber handle with a lanyard hole
• Half serrated back of the blade with fishing line cutter
• Wide quillion
• Hammer on bottom of the handle
• Available with a blunt or a sharp tip
• Includes polymer leg sheath

The Cressi Skorpion is built for safety first and foremost. The rubber handle is easy to grip, with an ergonomic contour. It also features a wide quillion to prevent your hand slipping forward if it should somehow slide on the rubber.

The blade is no slouch either. It measures 4 ⅜ inches in length and is available with either a clip point or a blunt chisel tip. The chisel tip is a great choice if you want to use your knife as a pry bar or chisel.

Pros

• Blunt-tip variant is perfect for chiseling
• Safe, ergonomic grip
• Versatile design
• Full tang construction
• Affordable

Cons

• Needs honing out of the box

If you value a safe, secure grip, it’s hard to beat this knife.

28. Cressi Orca

With a 7-inch blade, the Cressi Orca is the longest knife on our list.

Key Features

• 7-inch stainless steel clip point blade
• 4.82-inch nylon handle
• Serrated back of the blade with line cutter
• Hammer on bottom of the handle
• Includes ABS plastic belt/leg sheath

The Cressi Orca was originally designed as a spearfishing knife. It features a 7-inch blade with one clip point edge and a serrated back. Of course, you don’t have to use it for cutting spearfishing rope. You can cut any rope you like, or use the standard edge for food preparation and other everyday purposes.

The downside? It’s huge, with a total length of almost 11 inches. Needless to say, you won’t be carrying this knife in your pocket.

Pros

• Ideal for cutting rope
• Versatile design
• Full tang construction

Cons

• Very long

The Cressi Orca has a serrated blade back and is perfect for cutting heavy rope.

29. Aqua Lung Argonaut

The Aqua Lung Argonaut is a compact spearpoint knife with serrations on the back of the blade.

Key Features

• 3-inch stainless steel spear point blade
• 4-inch paracord-wrapped handle
• Serrated back of the blade
• Pointed hammer on bottom of handle
• Available with a sharp or a blunt tip
• Includes Kydex belt sheath with 5 mounting grommets

The Aqua Lung Argonaut is a short spear point knife with a 3-inch blade. It features a serrated back edge, so you’ll be able to saw through the rope as well as make precise cuts. Alternatively, you can order the blunt-tipped version for safety. It ships with a quality Kydex belt sheath, which has 5 mounting grommets for securing it to your belt, boot, or backpack.

Pros

• Snug-fitting sheath
• Razor-sharp out of the box
• Single-piece construction

Cons

• Pricey

This knife comes with a snug-fitting sheath that allows you to carry in any position.

30. Aqua Lung Argonaut

The Aqua Lung Argonaut is well suited for self-defense, cutting rope, or slicing.

Key Features

• 4 ⅞-inch titanium spear point blade
• 4 ⅞-inch paracord-wrapped titanium handle
• Serrated edge on the back of blade
• Pointed escape hammer on bottom of the handle
• Available with a blunt or a sharp tip
• Includes Kydex belt sheath with leg strap holes and 5 mounting grommets

The Aqua Lung Argonaut is a full-sized version of the Argonaut Stunt Knife we just looked at. And we do mean “full-sized”. The overall length is just shy of 10 inches, so you’ll need to consider whether you need your knife concealable.

That said, if you want a larger knife, this one is an excellent choice. It shares all the great features of its little brother, including the paracord-wrapped handle, the serrated black edge, and the quality Kydex sheath.

Pros

• Snug-fitting sheath
• Versatile design
• Will never corrode
• Razor-sharp out of the box
• Single-piece construction

Cons

• Very long
• Expensive

This versatile knife isn’t just for cutting; it also has a hammer at the base for knocking in tent stakes, tenderizing meat, and other purposes.

31. Mako Shark

The Mako Shark is a single-piece stainless steel knife that comes at a reasonable price.

Key Features

• 4-inch stainless steel spear point blade
• 4 ⅝-inch stainless steel handle
• Half serrated blade
• 5 large mounting holes in handle
• Includes molded polymer leg sheath

The Mako Shark Dive Knife is forged from a single piece of stainless steel, with a 4-inch stainless steel blade that’s serrated along the bottom half of its length and features a spear point. The 4 ⅝-inch handle section has several large holes in it, to reduce weight as well as to provide tie-off points for applying a paracord wrap.

Pros

• Lightweight design
• Single-piece construction
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Uncomfortable grip
• Long

If you’re looking for an inexpensive knife that will still get the job done, this is a good selection.

32. Blue Reef

The Blue Reef has a gut hook on the back of the blade, a great feature for anglers.

Key Features

• 3 ½-inch folding titanium drop point blade
• 4 ½-inch polymer handle with lanyard
• Half serrated blade
• Guthook on back of blade

The Blue Reef Scuba Titanium Folding Knife is a folding knife, just as you’d expect. It’s compact enough to carry in your pocket, and can also be carried on your backpack or neck with the built-in lanyard. The 3 ½-inch blade features a gut hook at the end and is constructed from corrosion-proof titanium.

This makes it an ideal choice for anglers, since you won’t need to worry about getting your blade rusty while you clean your fish.

Pros

• Great for fishing
• Comfortable grip
• Will never corrode
• Affordable

Cons

• Flimsy construction

This is a well-engineered EDC folding knife.

33. AQUA LUNG MICRO SQUEEZE

The Aqua Lung Micro Squeeze is a compact knife that’s designed for secure sheath retention and a quick release.

Key Features

• 2-inch  stainless steel serrated blade
• 1 ¾-inch nylon handle with 3 ½-inch nylon extension strap
• Guthook and bottle opener on back of the blade
• Includes a Kydex sheath

The Aqua Lung Micro Squeeze is a short, 2-inch serrated knife that has a short, 1 ¾-inch nylon handle. Since this is too short to hold onto, Aqua Lung attaches a 3 ½-inch nylon webbing extension strap to help keep your grip secure.

The sheath is a major attraction here. It’s designed to attach to your backpack strap or jacket, and retains your knife with a pair of clips. Just squeeze the sheath, and the knife comes out in your hand.

Pros

• Small and lightweight
• Snug-fitting sheath with locking release
• Affordable

Cons

• Very short blade

If you want a small knife that can be carried just about anywhere, it’s hard to pass this one up.

34. Spyderco Ladybug 3

 

The Spyderco Ladybug 3 Knife’s textured grip is easy to hold onto.

Key Features

• 3 ¾-inch folding stainless steel standard point blade
• 5-inch fiberglass-reinforced nylon handle
• Easy-open hole in the blade
• Includes reversible titanium belt clip

This Spyderco Knife is a folding knife with a 3 ¾-inch stainless steel blade. The back of the blade has a large hole drilled into it, making it easy to open with one hand. The 5-inch fiberglass-reinforced nylon handle is easy to grip and slips easily into your pocket. Alternatively, the belt clip is reversible, so you can carry it on either hip.

Pros

• Textured grip
• Easy to open
• Razor-sharp out of the box

Cons

• Pricey

If you want a folding EDC knife that’s easy to open, this is a good selection.

35. Spyderco Tasman Salt 2

The Spyderco Tasman Salt 2’s reversible belt clip means you can carry it on either hip.

Key Features

• 3.8-inch folding stainless steel serrated blade
• 4 ⅞-inch fiberglass-reinforced nylon handle
• Easy-open hole in the back of the blade
• Includes reversible titanium belt clip

The Spyderco Tasman is a serrated version of the Pacific Salt Plain Edge Knife we just looked at. It has most of the same features, including the easy-open blade hole and the reversible belt clip. It’s simply designed for sawing instead of slicing.

Pros

• Perfect for cutting rope
• Easy to open
• Textured grip
• Free sharpening

Cons

• Dulls relatively quickly

If you need to cut some rope with your folding knife, this is a great selection.

36. Aquatec T-REX

The Aquatec T-REX has a trailing point blade, which allows for accurate, precise cuts.

Key Features

• 3 ½-inch titanium trailing point blade
• 4 ¼-inch rubber-padded titanium grip
• Half serrated blade
• Line cutter on back of the blade
• Includes Kydex leg sheath

The Aquatec T-REX is a trailing point knife with a 3 ½-inch blade. The front edge of the blade is standard, while the bottom half is serrated for sawing. On the back of the blade, you’ll find a fishing line cutter. The handle features rubber padding, both for comfort and a secure grip. Combine that with the wide quillion, and you’ve got yourself a very safe knife.

Pros

• Single-piece construction
• Comfortable grip
• Safe grip
• Will never corrode

Cons

• Pricey

Whether you’re making precise slices or cutting rope or fishing line, you won’t go wrong with this knife.

37. Punada Scuba

The Punada Scuba comes with two sheaths: a nylon version for flexibility, and an ABS plastic version for durability.

Key Features

• 3.85-inch stainless steel clip point blade
• 4.13-inch paracord-wrapped stainless steel handle with lanyard
• Half-serrated back of the blade
• Includes nylon and ABS plastic leg sheaths

The Punada features a broad, military-style clip point blade that’s both sharp and easy to control. It’s forged from a single piece of steel, making it very durable, especially for an inexpensive knife. The handle is wrapped with paracord, providing a secure, comfortable grip.

Pros

• Single-piece construction
• Lifetime manufacturer’s warranty
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Sticky sheath

Punada’s lifetime manufacturer’s warranty is very generous for a budget brand.

38. Smith & Wesson EDC

The Smith & Wesson EDC is easy to conceal in a tall boot or on your hip.

Key Features

• 4.6-inch stainless steel double-edged blade
• 4.4-inch rubberized handle
• Wide quillion
• Includes a leather sheath

The Smith & Wesson EDC Boot Knife features a 4.6-inch double-edged blade. It’s engineered from stainless steel, with an edge that arrives razor sharp. For legal reasons, the back edge arrives dull. If it’s legal in your state, sharpen away!

This knife has a rubberized handle that’s both comfortable and tacky, with wide quillions for added safety. It includes a stylish leather sheath that can be strapped inside a boot or attached to your belt.

Pros

• Razor-sharp out of the box
• Secure grip
• The sheath can be carried on your belt or in your boot
• Affordable

Cons

• One edge arrives dull

This is a high-quality knife, designed for use by law enforcement.

39. Tactical Warrior Tanto

The Tactical Warrior Tanto is constructed from carbon steel, so it’s very easy to sharpen.

Key Features

• 3-inch carbon steel tanto blade
• 3 ¾-inch steel frame handle
• Built-in whistle in the sheath
• Includes nylon sheath

The Tactical Warrior Tanto Foldable Boot Knife is a folding knife that fits into a 3 ¾-inch sheath. This makes it well-sized even for people with smaller feet, although you can also just carry it in your pocket. The blade is easy to sharpen, which is fortunate since it arrives dull.

This is a budget knife, but it’s very well designed for the price. It includes a nylon sheath that fits very snugly and includes a built-in signal whistle for emergencies.

Pros

• Easy to sharpen
• Slim profile
• Tight-fitting boot sheath
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Flimsy blade
• Needs honing right out of the box

If you want an affordable boot knife that’s still reliable, this is a good choice.

40. Rothco Raider II

The Rothco Raider II has a double-edged blade with a rugged nylon handle.

Key Features

• 4-inch double-edged carbon steel blade
• 4 ½-inch nylon handle
• Textured grip with wide quillion
• Includes a leather boot sheath

The Rothco Raider II is a double-edged carbon steel knife with a 4-inch blade and a 4 ½-inch nylon handle. The handle has a textured finish for plenty of grip, and a wide quillion for added protection.

With an overall length of 8 ½ inches, it’s on the long side, but it includes a well-designed leather boot sheath that should be comfortable for most people. It arrives with a dull blade, but the carbon steel is easy to sharpen, so that’s not a big deal.

Pros

• Holds its edge well
• Secure grip
• Snug-fitting sheath
• Mounts on your boot or your belt
• Affordable

Cons

• The blade needs honing out of the box

This blade’s slim profile makes it a good choice for carrying in your boot.

Bottom Line

When you’re searching for a good EDC knife, it’s important to consider how you might use that knife. For example, a serrated knife is a great choice for cutting rope, but a terrible choice for skinning a small game animal. Similarly, a folding knife is great for concealment and convenience, but a knife with a sheath is typically going to be easier to pull out in an emergency.

Another important consideration is the size. Bigger is not always better! And we don’t just mean that big knives are tough to conceal. They’re also tougher control. This makes them ill-suited for fine tasks, like whittling or opening an envelope. On the other hand, a big knife is a necessity if you want to chop kindling. A bigger blade is also helpful for self-defense.

So what’s the top EDC knife? It depends on what you’re going to use it for. But any of these knives would be a solid choice.

Check out all the other hunting gear articles put together by the expert team here at Guns & Safety Reviews;

• Trail Cameras
• Hunting Rifles
• Camo
• Crossbow Pistols
• Neck Knives