Top 5 Folding Knives for Everyday Carry: A Comprehensive Review
When it comes to everyday carry (EDC) gear, a reliable folding knife is essential. The right folding knife not only serves multiple functions but also fits comfortably in your pocket. Below, we delve into five of the top folding knives based on stamina, versatility, ease of use, and user feedback.
1. Benchmade Bugout
Blade Material: S30V stainless steel
Blade Length: 3.24 inches
Weight: 1.85 ounces
Price: Approximately $140
The Benchmade Bugout is a staple in the EDC community, known for its lightweight design and efficient blade performance. The S30V stainless steel blade offers excellent edge retention, ensuring you won’t constantly need to sharpen it. The drop-point design provides versatility, making it suitable for various tasks from slicing fruit to more demanding cutting tasks.
The handle is made from Grivory, contributing to its lightweight nature, which users appreciate for prolonged carry without discomfort. The AXIS lock mechanism allows for smooth one-handed operation, enhancing its usability. Lastly, the knife includes a reversible pocket clip, catering to both right and left-handed users.
2. Spyderco Paramilitary 2
Blade Material: CPM S30V stainless steel
Blade Length: 3.42 inches
Weight: 3.75 ounces
Price: Approximately $150
The Spyderco Paramilitary 2 boasts a robust design and exceptional ergonomics. Its handle features textured G-10 scales, providing a secure grip even in wet conditions. The CPM S30V steel blade guarantees outstanding performance, along with an impressive sharpness right out of the box.
One of its standout features is the Compression Lock system, which ensures safety and eases the task of closing the knife with one hand. The blade’s full-flat grind renders it perfect for precision slicing, while the spatula-like tip is excellent for various tasks. The Spyderco’s signature thumb hole allows for easy deployment, solidifying its place as one of the best folding knives for EDC.
3. Kershaw Blur
Blade Material: Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel
Blade Length: 3.4 inches
Weight: 4.5 ounces
Price: Approximately $100
The Kershaw Blur is perfect for those seeking a rugged and reliable folding knife. Made with Sandvik 14C28N steel, the blade is durable and capable of withstanding daily wear and tear. The assisted opening mechanism makes deployment quick and easy, while the blade’s tanto shape lends itself well to piercing tasks.
What sets the Blur apart is its anodized aluminum handle that not only looks great but also improves grip, combined with its textured surface. This model features a reversible pocket clip, enhancing its carry convenience. For users concerned with blade accessibility, the Blur’s thumb stud makes it one of the easiest knives to operate with one hand, increasing its appeal for day-to-day use.
4. CRKT Pilar
Blade Material: 8Cr13MoV stainless steel
Blade Length: 2.4 inches
Weight: 3.8 ounces
Price: Approximately $50
The CRKT Pilar is a compact option for EDC enthusiasts who appreciate minimalist design without compromising on utility. Boasting a 2.4-inch blade, it’s lightweight and easily pocketable. The 8Cr13MoV stainless steel provides good edge retention and is relatively easy to sharpen.
The Pilar features a stainless steel handle with a stonewashed finish, ensuring durability and a modern aesthetic. Its frame lock mechanism secures the blade while providing smooth opening and closing. This knife is particularly suited for everyday tasks like opening packages or food prep, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a smaller blade without sacrificing functionality.
5. Ontario RAT Model 1
Blade Material: AUS-8 stainless steel
Blade Length: 3.0 inches
Weight: 3.6 ounces
Price: Approximately $40
The Ontario RAT Model 1 is celebrated for its reliability and affordability. Made from AUS-8 stainless steel, the blade offers a balance between toughness and ease of maintenance. With a blade length of 3 inches, it suits a wide array of EDC tasks from everyday slicing to intricate jobs.
The nylon handle scales are textured for a secure grip but remain lightweight. The liner lock system ensures a sturdy closure, and the ambidextrous thumb studs allow for fast deployment. Moreover, with its pocket-friendly price, the RAT Model 1 provides high-quality performance without breaking the bank, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious EDC users.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the best steel for folding knives?
A1: Steel types vary widely, but S30V, CPM-S35VN, and AUS-8 are popular among EDC enthusiasts for their balance of toughness, corrosion resistance, and edge retention.
Q2: How do I choose the right folding knife for EDC?
A2: Consider factors such as blade material, handle comfort, weight, and the locking mechanism. Personal preference and tasks you’ll be using the knife for also play crucial roles.
Q3: Are folding knives legal for EDC?
A3: Laws vary by region. It’s essential to check local regulations regarding blade length, locking mechanisms, and carrying methods to ensure compliance.
Q4: How often should I sharpen my folding knife?
A4: Sharpening frequency depends on usage. A general rule is to sharpen when the blade no longer effortlessly cuts paper or performs tasks easily.
Q5: Can I carry more than one folding knife for EDC?
A5: Yes, many people choose to carry multiple knives for different purposes. Just be mindful of legal restrictions in your area.
With the right folding knife, you not only enhance your daily carry but also ensure you’re prepared for various tasks that may arise throughout the day. Whether you’re looking for lightweight options like the Benchmade Bugout or the compact CRKT Pilar, this guide helps identify knives catering to varied preferences and uses within the EDC community.
