But then, someone needs a box opened, a piece of rope cut, or another task your hands can’t do on their own. And so, you are either thankful for the blade you’ve conveniently stored away or regret the fact that you’ve yet to make that purchase.
So while we are thinking about it, let’s take a look at the top brands and pocket blades to buy.
SOG Twitch II
The sequel to the original Twitch is made from AUS-8 steel. This slightly softer steel combined with the satin finish make it easy to re-sharpen. The drop point makes it good for work, whittling, or defending yourself. Make sure you give it that little kick when you open so that handle will lock firmly into place.
Kershaw Brawler
The Brawler’s modified tanto blade is the same one found on tactical and rescues knives. The tip is perfect for being able to tear materials after you punch through them. The Brawler gets that piercing power from its narrower blade design.
Buck Knives 112BRS Ranger
The Ranger is a Buck brand knife inspired by a famous knife created by the company’s founders. This small knife (it’s only about 4 inches when it is closed) is easy to carry around and perfect for rudimentary tasks. The 420HC blade is 3 inches in its own right. The Ranger, with its brass ends and wooden handle, also has a very smooth look to it.
Gerber Ripstop 1
Speaking of easy to carry, the 2 ounce Ripstop goes unnoticed in your pocket. This stainless steel model can also withstand much abuse. Also featuring a serrated edge, the Ripstop only requires a single hand from you to open.
Kershaw Ken Onion Blur
This Kershaw model uses Sandvik 14C28N steel and a tungsten DLC to reduce reflection. The thick body is capable of cutting through thick rope or animal fat. But while it can cut through tough services, the Blur consolidates easily in your pocket.
Spyderco Para 3 G-10 PlainEdge Folding Knife
The more compact version of the Para 2, the Para 3 is textured with G-10 camouflage scales patterned after the U.S. Army’s ARPAT camo. The Para 3 can be used in either hand and is perfect for quick access to items when you only have one hand to open them.
Bear & Son Damascus Steel Lockbacks
The Bear & Son Lockback is a throwback that’s not meant as a combat accessory. This small and simple model is perfect for doing jobs around the house or having available for the unexpected emergency. They also come in various styles and with a replaceable blade.
Buck Knives Solo Folding Pocket Knife
This 3 inch model fits into the pockets of the tightest of skinny jeans. It comes with both functionality for use outside and a sophisticated look for use at more formal social occasions. The modified clip blade is made from 420J2 steel and is easily sharpened.
Gerber Gator
The Gator is built so you can handle it even in wet and rainy conditions without losing it. Wet, oil, and bloody hands should all be able to keep hold of the rubberized tactical grip of the. The blade is razor-edged CPM-S30V steel. The Gator can be stored on various places when you aren’t using it. There’s a lanyard hole so you can wear it around your neck. There’s also a case for storage on your knife. And it fits easily into your pocket.
Benchmade Crooked River
The Crooked River is a wood-handled hunting knife crafted in a class style sure to appeal to traditional hunters. It also comes with a very modern CPM-S30V stainless steel blade.
Benchmade 551BK Griptilian
The dual thumb studs on the Griptilian make it easy for either hand to open. Other features include a 154 CM blade with a 58-60 spot on the HRC scale, AXIS locking, a glass-filled nylon handle, and a textured and molded grip. This model is very strong for its five ounce weight. And it maintains its edges year after year.
Kershaw Cryo
One flick of the finger is all it takes to lock the Kershaw Cryo into place. With a weight of 4 ounces and a blade 3 inches long, the Cryo fits perfectly into your pocket. But while the blade size makes it a perfect fit for your pocket, the 3 inches are also perfect for really putting leverage into your cuts.
Tops X Buck Knives CSAR-T
Two different knife manufacturers, TOPS and Buck, came together to create this foot long combat knife. TOPS brings the heavy-duty manufacturing with ATS-34 steel. Buck provides the precision with G10 handles that make this knife perfect for handling in the wild.
Spyderco Tenacious Folding Knife
The Tenacious comes with a black laminate handle with steel liners tucked inside for strength. There is also a non-reflective coating from the 8Cr13MoV stainless steel. And the blade is ground flat from spine to edge for continuous cutting.
Spyderco Paramilitary 2
This Spyderco model features a full-flat CPM-S30V steel build and textured G10 handles. Its compression lock keeps it snapped in. And it is as sturdy a small folding knife as you’ll find on the market.
Gerbert Covert Auto
The Gerbert Covert Auto is an automatic with an instant, spring-assisted side opening. The 7Cr17MoV titanium blade measures 3.7 inches. It is also backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
Zero Tolerance Hinderer
Zero Tolerance is the company who originated the flipper knife, a model used by police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and military personnel. The handle is made of 3D machined titanium that reduces the overall weight of the knife while also securing Bohler-Uddenholm’s ELMAX steel blade. And the blade has a deep carry pocket clip so it can be concealed.
Chris Reeve Large Sebenza 21
Yes, this is the 21st model (released in 2008) of the original 1987 version of the Chris Reeve Large Sebenza knife. The current model includes a CPM S35VN cutting surface and a stonewashed titanium handle.
CRKT Squid
The Squid is perfect for carrying around in your pocket. Its 4.49 inch size conceals easily. But its 8Cr13MoV steel blade doesn’t perform like a small blade. And the Squid gains strength and balance from its drop point style.
Outdoor Nation Rescue Folding Knife
This budget blade outdoor nation knife comes equipped with a glass breaker and a 3.25 inch 440 stainless steel blade. Its compact size makes it easy to store. And did I mention the affordable price? You can find them for $11
SOG Aegis Tanto
The Tanto’s partially serrated blade is perfect for cutting through fabrics, belts, and leather. The Tanto has an easy to use automatic opening that springs the blade into action quickly.
