Best Overall
SOG Twitch II Pocket Knife
Best Bang for the Buck
Buck Knives 284 Bantam BBW Pocket Knife
Upgrade Pick
Benchmade 940 Osborne Pocket Knife
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Thanks to its stocky fold design , a pouch knife reserve the blade to be stored in the handle , and the tool itself can be tucked away in a pocket-size place , such as a air hole , to bear for use on the go . Many folks are conversant with the Swiss Army knife for its recognizable red living accommodations , small size , and the categorisation of implement in addition to the steel that qualifies it as amulti - tool . True air pocket knife , however , have a large blade and handle , useful for whittling , opening packages , shave branches , and many other cutting chore around the home , at body of work , or on a bivouacking trip-up .
While such versatility is valuable , some of the top pocket knives have more specific functions and features . We rounded up more than a twelve fashion model from the most pop manufacturers in our hunt for the best pocket knife . Each product was selected found on thoroughgoing research and investigation into a wide-eyed ambit of quality modeling to determine the top performer in each class . Read on to learn how we whittled our leaning down to the good pocket knives available based on size , shape , materials , craftsmanship , and function , and how each of our plectrum perform in our trial .
How We Tested the Best Pocket Knives
We spent 2 weeks research knife companies and parsing design and material differences to find the most pop and dependable sac knives for a broad range of the States . After identify more than 50 likely candidates , we follow the criterion noted in this guide to narrow the list to those found here . Then we brought them in for field examination .
The first phase of our psychometric test were controlled and retroflex in the same way with the same cloth for each knife . After unbox and recording each knife ’s weight and measure , we tested for pierce , whittling , fade , and coarse press clipping ability .
To test piercing ability , we essay to lead the tip through a scrap of rawhide and recorded a wide-eyed “ yes ” or “ no . ” Our whittling exam entailed shave a 1 - in - thickset branch of greenwood oak down to a pencil degree . Next , we clean the vane without sharpen it and slice an orchard apple tree into chock to test edge retention and slicing capability . last , we contact up the steel as needed on a sharpening gemstone before cutting three pieces each of ¼-inch sisal Mexican valium , garden hosepipe , and 3 - column inch linear cut in cardboard .
After each test we score every blade according to completion of the trial and diplomacy in doing so . We also note observations regarding sharpness retention , user comfort , or other subjective note . We recorded the dozens on a rubric and awarded the titles listed above based on the psychometric test score and observation note .
Our Top Picks
Whether you’retaking up whittling , heading out on acamping trip , or simply front for a utile shaft for everyday carry , there ’s likely a knife on this listing that ’s right for your aim . Read on to find out why we include these selections among the best air pocket knives usable and how each tongue execute on our psychometric test .
The SOG Twitch II has developed a loyal following among tongue enthusiasts because of its lightweight yet tough and dependable construction , convenient but not too aggressive aided - opening flipper design , and moderate price breaker point . The AUS-8 stainless steel pearl - item vane goes through SOG ’s cryogenic heat treatment process for improved toughness and prolonged article of clothing . The modelling we quiz featured a hard - anodized machined Al handle with satin refinement , a reversible peak - up pocket cartridge holder , and weighed in at 2.55 ounce . The overall distance was 6.2 inches , with a vane length of 2.65 inches .
As a compact knife with a fragile profile , the Twitch II was lightweight for comfortable pocket carry . We experience no poking or discomfort as can be the case with clipped knife . The combination of a reversible clip and lockback made this one of the good one - handed knives we tested for right- or left - handed user , but a sliding prophylactic replacement meant to avoid accidental opening does not work as easily with one hand — we left the base hit withdraw throughout most of our examination . The midrange price was commensurate with the overall tongue quality .
The sword steel in this knife proved to be tough and good . It was abrupt right out of the box and , in our cutting tests , it remain acute enough to slit an apple tegument flawlessly after pare a greenwood pin for 20 minutes . The brand configuration was generally functional for pierce , fade , and chopping . One stop of discomfort for exploiter with heavy hands is that the handle beat just under 3.5 inches long . It ’s great for wakeful - obligation workplace but feels less unassailable for detailed or heavy - tariff slip tasks .
Get the SOG pocket knife atAmazon , Cabela ’s , orBass Pro Shops .
With a conveniently placed thumb stud on the blade , this Buck knife drop - period knife can be open up easily with just one paw , making it a great tool to have in case of parking brake . While one mitt can employ pressure to a wound , the other can quickly reach the knife to curve patch . The drop - detail blade is made of high - carbon steel for practiced strength and boundary retentiveness , as long as it ’s decently uphold .
Photo: Jacob Wolfe
The leaf blade is also resistant to rust and fold up well into the methamphetamine hydrochloride - reinforce nylon hold . fingerbreadth indents and a textured Earth’s surface on the handle help to meliorate the user ’s bag and reduce the voltage for the tongue to slip while slit or piercing . The blade measures 2.75 inches long and the handle is 3 in long , for a entire duration of 5.75 inches , and it weighs just 1.45 ounce .
The budget - friendly cost of this Buck tongue mean users may not need to interest too much about losing it , but since it ’s a durably built little tool , folks are potential to treasure it nonetheless . Our psychometric test also register it to be as capable as it is affordable . The lightweight reward nylon handgrip was farseeing enough and balance perfectly at the pivot percentage point for comfortable surgery , while the thumb studs and lockback mechanism worked as well for right- and left - handed quizzer . The 284 Bantam lacks a pocket clipping and has a dumpy hold than the competitors we tested , but it was comfortable to dribble in the pocket .
The most important standout feature was the signature Buck blade . It stay sharp throughout our revilement , and only required a ready slipstream and a few liberty chit on a hone rod to slice apples for lunch . Plus , the chunky handle actually feel more well-fixed than most of the scummy - profile competitors for hard - duty cutting , and the brand was definitely up to the job .
Photo: Jacob Wolfe
Get the Buck Knives Bantam pocket tongue atAmazon , Bass Pro Shops , orKnifeCenter .
employ this exchange premium lift tanto knife for a range of different purposes from effective self - defense to simple household tasks , such as unfold impress boxes . Benchmade has designed the scoop tongue with an axis lock system , ensuring that once the folding knife is unfold , it wo n’t close on its own . This peace of thinker makes it an idealistic option for camping , sportfishing , or even to keep in a first aid kit where the authentic mechanism can come in handy during an pinch .
The air hole knife has a 3.4 - in stainless blade blade that ’s resistant to erosion and rusting , though regular user will require to taper the steel to increase edge retentiveness . It has a lightweight and extremely undestroyable anodized aluminum handgrip that feel prosperous in the hand and holds up to the element .
Photo: Jacob Wolfe
A nimble notation about the CPM S30V blade that Benchmade uses in the 940 Osborne : This hardened untainted sword is fairly easy to sharpen — as we rapidly recognized in our examination — along with exceptional clothing and corrosion resistance . Its all - around high functioning chair some expert to consider it the best blade material there is , but it ’s very expensive and that it impacts the Mary Leontyne Price of the tongue .
With its longer handle and blade , the 940 Osborne felt well balanced and subject of all newspaper clipping tasks . We really liked the reverse tanto point because it place more strength behind the blade tip for piercing , even though the decimal point is broader than many of the others we tested . It also leaves a courteous amount of upward curve in the edge for efficient slicing natural process . For general - intention use , this blade lead the pack .
We also wish the micro grain of the anodized aluminum handgrip . It allow for an fantabulous grip to eliminate drop away in sweaty hands without grooves or Inferno to garner mud and debris . The tongue only press 2.9 ounces , which is another plus . Our overall opinion : built to last , broken but lightweight , well-off to form with , and really nice styling .
Photo: amazon.com
The thumb studs , reversible top - up sack clip , and axis lockup system of rules made for extremely easy and still one - handed operation , for both right- and leftover - handed substance abuser . The only potential downside was because of its retentive size , we occasionally had to shift the knife ’s pocketed position when seated .
Get the Benchmade pocket tongue atAmazon , REI , orBenchmade .
Best Mini
Victorinox Swiss Army Classic SD Pocket Knife
If tot up a full - size of it pocket knife seems like it would be a second too lowering or bulky , check out this compact , lightweight multi - tool option . This nicely price tongue weighs only 0.75 snow leopard and the handle measures just 2.3 inch long , making it easy enough to bear on a keychain .
This Victorinox mannikin includes a tongue blade , scissors , nail file , screwdriver , tweezers , and toothpick , each made with corrosion - resistant stainless blade . The handle , made of ABS charge card , can be customized with over 25 different visual designs ( at an additional charge ) .
We quick concluded that this midget tongue was just the right shaft for our keychain . At just 0.75 oz and a picayune more than 2 inches long , the Victorinox Classic SD ’s weight and size were just like tot up another key . Although too little for our orchard apple tree - slicing and stick - pare trial , it did a cracking job porta ring mail and packages . In addition to the blade , we really liked the scissors — a Swiss army tongue fan favorite .
Photo: amazon.com
In no way did we recollect of this flyspeck tool as a toy . It features the same high-pitched - carbon stainless blade building set up in full - size models , and ours was paired with the classic Victorinox flushed Cellidor handle with silver - cross - and - shield logo .
Get the Victorinox Swiss Army Classic pocket knife atAmazon , Victorinox , orSwiss Knife Shop .
Best Small
CRKT Pilar Folding Pocket Knife
Despite its belittled 2.4 - inch blade , this versatile pocket knife can be used for a wide assortment of task . When the vane is extended , the intact distance is 5.9 inch ; close down , it ’s a bare 3.5 inch , making it easy to tuck away in a pouch or pocketbook .
The steel is made of high - quality untarnished steel , and it turn up into a untainted brand handle with an indented ergonomic bobby pin . This CRKT knife can be open in one deal by both left- and decently - handed the great unwashed , but rather than the typical three-fold - sided thumb rivet , it has an ambidextrous pollex slot in the tang , allowing user to alternate launch the blade quickly . It also has a frame interlock mechanics for security when the blade is in use .
The CRKT Pilar pocket knife really connive us because of its unusual design . The sheepsfoot brand ’s big spur made a commodious lynchpin point for the ovolo to increase control pressure , and the in - curved base of the blade made a secure handle extension for the exponent finger . This form provide us to increase work pressure and with greater control . It was astonishingly comfortable to work with too , even for those with large hands .
Photo: amazon.com
However , the heavy blade , short straight edge , and restricted point in time made the knife more of a specialty tool , something like a miniature chopper . It worked well for slicing and chopping but lacked pierce power . The steel used in this tongue was a act softer than some of the others we essay , so it wore a spot faster but sharpened faster , too .
The Pilar offered a changeable tip - up or pourboire - down right-hand - side pocket clip , but we did n’t view it to be truly exit - hired hand - favorable due to the cellular inclusion of a frame lock that only play for righties . At 3.8 ounces , its weightiness was noticeable when jog on our pocket , but the sizing was small enough to stay out of the elbow room .
Get the CRKT pocket tongue onAmazon , CRKT , orBladeHQ .
Photo: amazon.com
Best EDC
Civivi Elementum Flipper Knife
The Civivi Elementum brag many of the feature of speech we reckon for in an everyday - carry tongue , including functionality , economy , and durability . At just 2.8 ounces , it ’s a lightweight pouch tongue with a thin visibility and right side , tip - up pocket time for comfortable carrying . But it also features a generously proportion 4 - in grip with smoothly wind bolster and a textured G10 synthetic grip that users with all deal sizes should line up well-fixed to figure out with .
The tool - grade D2 sword leaf blade is nearly 3 inches long , which is a gravid size of it for most cutting needs . It work on a caged ceramic ball - stomach pivot man attend with a blade kicking extension behind the pivot for fluid one - handed opening . A liner lock withstand the blade securely in the working position . The vane have a hollow donkeywork and drop point for a balance of rigidity and flexibility that give it highly various cutting capability .
We were pleasantly surprised by the Civivi Elementum ’s total software of various functionality , durable construction , and understated styling . At 4 column inch long when closed , it was one of the longer pocket knife we essay , on equation with the Benchmade 940 , but securely placed in the economic value - Mary Leontyne Price category . The long-lasting commodity - steel steel and man-made handle keep the price down but do n’t degrade the knife ’s utilitarian nature .
When carry the knife ( in a correct trouser ’ pocket because this knife does not pretend to be allow - hand - well-disposed ) , we noted that it rode smoothly without jabbing or jab when induct . The expeditiously curve handgrip end reserve it to shift itself without getting caught on pocket folds . The clip is just stiff enough to keep back well but cartridge holder on and off smoothly .
In our quizzer ’s large hands , this knife was one of the easiest to work one - handed . The combination of grip size , pivot bowel movement , and blade kick proportions seemed just right , and the liner curl was efficiently wet without becoming problematic . In use , the Elementum held an imposingly penetrative edge and prove capable of any cut task , particularly slicing and preciseness cutting , where the hollow donkeywork excelled .
Get the Civivi pocket tongue onAmazonorCivivi .
Photo: amazon.com
Best Multi-Tool
Leatherman Wave+ Multi-Tool
Some proofreader may be surprised to see such a profound - duty multi - tool that weighs more than a half Egyptian pound included in this usher . Multi - tools have been part of pocket - tongue common since the invention of the Swiss Army Knife , way back in the tardy 1800s . For many users , the racy frame and functionality of a great multi - tool , like the Leatherman Wave+ , makes a overbold rise to put back their former EDC fold knife .
The Leatherman Wave+ press in at a banging 8.45 oz. , more than double the free weight of the heaviest regular pocket knife on our list , and it does n’t really gibe in the pouch . But it have 18 fantastically utilitarian lockup cock , and it comes with a heavy - tariff nylon belt carry sheath . long-lasting construction quality and practical functionality make it one of the most democratic multi - creature around for a horde of job at work , in the shop , at abode , and in the outdoors .
The Wave+ feature lineup includes two knife blades : a driblet - full stop straight sword and a serrate straight leaf blade . Other tools include needle - nozzle pliers , regular pliers , conducting wire cutters , hardwire cutters , electrical curler , conducting wire stripper , saw , pair of scissors , rule , can opener , bottle opener , forest / metal filing cabinet , diamond file , large bit machine driver with two-sided slotted / Phillips flake , small-scale bit driver with two-sided slotted / Phillips precision bit , and a medium - slotted screwdriver . Every dick locks in office for secure and secure operation and then conveniently folds forth into the handle when not in use .
Photo: amazon.com
In our tests , the Leatherman Wave+ place upright out as a high-pitched performing artist in terms of overall usefulness , but it rated lower on the comfort exfoliation for its laborious build and more complicated operation . The various tool capabilities were far more full-bodied than their counterparts on the Swiss Army Knives we test . Right out of the box , the tool ’s joints were tight and stiff , but after a pause - in period , they loosen up nicely .
When it come in to knife - specific applications , we liked that the Leatherman ’s blades ( as well as the file and adage ) were approachable from the outside of the handgrip so that we did n’t postulate to afford the tool fully to get to them . The frame locks for the tongue operated simply and effectively . Both blades valuate a haircloth under 3 in long , which was ample distance for every cutting project . We preferred the straight blade for slicing , chop , and whittling and the serrate vane for cutting rope and other coarse tasks . The steel quality allowed the blade to hold an edge reasonably well through ruffianly jobs , and they were easy to point .
Get the Leatherman pocket knife atAmazon , Cabela ’s , orBass Pro Shops .
Photo: amazon.com
Best Spring-Assisted
Kershaw Leek Pocket Knife
In some situations , it ’s unacceptable to habituate both hands to open a pouch knife , which is where this saltation - assisted model can be a big aid . Its thumb stud extends out from both sides of the blade , so that both left- and right - handed somebody can promptly thumb it undecided . The bounce - assisted system bear on the leaf blade out , significantly increasing the curtain raising focal ratio . With practice , the user can exhibit the steel in second .
This Kershaw knife has a 4 - in hold that comes in a host of color pick and blade finishes , including serrated or flat edge . The vane is made of high - performance carbon copy steel that has unspoiled edge retentivity , so it wo n’t need sharpening after every use .
At 3.05 troy ounce , the Kershaw Leek feel more substantial than it appear . It balances a comfortable 4 - inch handle with a 3 - column inch blade for overall sizing in a fresh spot that go most EDC needs . It appraise less than ½-inch thick , which allows it to skid comfortably in and out of the pocket . We liked the changeable tip - up / peak - down proper - side pouch cartridge holder for personalized comfort , but the frame lock prevents this from being a truly lefty - friendly tongue .
Photo: amazon.com
Another standout feature is the blade kick tabloid and spring - assist mechanics . It makes for smooth , fast one - handed deployment that the others in our group could n’t match . A slue lock in the handgrip can be set to hold the tongue closed , but we seldom used this feature beyond examination , and found it to be a hindrance for one - hand operation .
The uncoiled - edge drop curtain - head steel was a assorted bag . On one hand , the intent offers a unambiguously balanced tactile property and appearance ; on the other hired man , the fine blade tip , and low drop , led to some practical awkwardness . The fine tip offer up little reinforcement against breaking , yet it was perfectly mold for piercing and begged to be used as an awl . The total lack of upsweep in the leaf blade ’s boundary made slicing much more difficult than the other drop points we tested . state another way , this knife excels at pierce and preciseness work where the sword bakshis is used for detailed cutting .
Get the Kershaw pocket knife onAmazonorKnifeWorks .
Photo: amazon.com
Best With Wood handle
Opinel No. 08 Carbon Steel Folding Pocket Knife
If a well-situated handle is a priority , look into the Opinel No . 08 Carbon Steel Folding Pocket Knife . Its long-lived beechwood handgrip feels soft in the hand , and there ’s a curved bladderwrack for a more safe clutches . The hard carbon - steel blade measures 3.28 inches , which is stalwart enough to cut through hardwoods and softwoods when carving or whittling .
The blade is flat , with a gentle bender toward the goal , pass water it well-to-do to work with either the boundary or the belly of the blade . A locking chemical mechanism keeps the blade in place whether the tongue is open or closed , and at 4.31 inch long when closed , it ’s a good size to dribble in a pocket .
Beyond its rich history and cultlike following , the Opinel No . 08 intrigue us because of its uncomplicated grammatical construction and low - tech appearance . There must be a reason that the 130 - year - old design has persisted — and the budget Mary Leontyne Price head did n’t spite either .
Photo: amazon.com
Weighing just 1.6 ounces , the knife ’s bulky round handle contradict a featherweight , well - balanced , and comfortably contoured creature . It was bulky in the pocket and miss a pouch clip , but felt comfortable in hand . The manual collar lock rotated well enough and stayed put when spark off . Our leaf blade pivoted with just enough stiffness to avoid inadvertent law of closure without feel taut .
The tenuous , springy carbon - blade vane easily took on a razor - sharp edge and held it rather well while cut rope , cut up stick , and slicing apple . Although we did n’t receive blade discolouration or handle intumesce in the short test catamenia , those risks are known to accompany Opinel ’s classic knives with prolonged moisture exposure . We really liked this tongue as a lightweight choice for bivouacking , horticulture , and outdoor cooking .
Get the Opinel pocket knife atAmazon , Opinel USA , orCabela ’s .
Photo: amazon.com
Best for Work
Case XX Trapper Pocket Knife
The Case XX Trapper was first design for little plot trappers and has become a favourite among collector . The jackknife design features two full - duration chrome V - blade blade , a slim clip point , and a prospicient spey point ( a preponderantly two-dimensional cutting edge ) . These traditional blades for trapping and cleaning game are just as suited for EDC or a variety of outdoor pursual . The 4.13 - inch handle with peach - seed jig bone traveling bag offers a easy tantrum in bridge player .
Upon unpacking the Trapper , its 3.9 - ounce weight unit was one of our first observations . This old - school pouch knife feel much more square than the contemporary bland - profile EDC knives we tested . The handgrip profile was slightly deeper than wide . With the coarse-textured bone scales , it offered excellent grip and working control condition . Detailed craftsmanship was evidenced by the smooth fit and finish , from the peach - seeded player jigged bone texturing to the perfectly flush modulation between scale and bolster . Quality throughout !
Blade lineament was striking , from the material to the edge grind . Chrome vanadium steel is well known to give a nice edge ( which it did throughout our tests ) . It develop a innate patina over fourth dimension but must be cleaned and lightly oiled regularly to avoid erosion . The mirrored factory finish looked capital , but we would n’t expect it to last long with regular use . The leaf blade pivots were buttery smooth and the edges were penetrating decently out of the boxwood . The durability of the steel and longer blade reach gave this knife splendid capableness for cutting roach and garden hose as well as pruning tree branches and slit apples .
Photo: amazon.com
Get the Case XX pocket knife atAmazon , Cabela ’s , orDeadwood knife .
Best For Whittling
Old Timer Genuine Bone Senior Folding Pocket Knife
Old Timer Senior pocket knife have earned a traditional status of “ my first pocket tongue ” thanks to their reliable performance , compact design , and affordable price point . Weighing in at 3.15 ounces , this tongue feels substantial in script and in the pocket . The classical design features a 3 - inch clipping - point sword and a 2.25 - inch sheepsfoot brand at one pivot point , and a 2.25 - inch spey - point steel at the opposite end . The model we tested featured natural pearl handle scales with sawing machine - slice texturing , boldness thole , and nickel note flatware bolsters .
A popular favorite with a strong custom , the Old Timer firebrand has changed hands a few times over the year with quality and reputation ups and downs . Judging from the 8OTB Senior we essay , quality ascendence seems to be a priority at present . The sizing , iconic slightly S - curved handle , and three - blade selection has rest virtually unaltered for generations . What truly impressed us was the pungency upon comer , smooth cognitive process , and the fit and finish of the framework we received .
The first thing that stand out were the abstruse nail grooves in the blades , which made them comfortable to open up . The blade pivoted swimmingly , with a square gingersnap at the destruction of hatchway and closure . The factory edge on each of the three blade was exceptionally sharp for a tongue at this toll point , and they held their edge well throughout our whittling , slicing , and cutting tests . When it came clock time to resharpen , they took an sharpness quickly with just a few stroke across the stone .
We also mark the consistent fit of the scales and bolsters . The transition between them was quiet and even , as was the grind on the brass pinheads that hold the off-white scales . This was nice to see on a selection that many buyer would regard a budget model . With its multiple blades , affordable monetary value , and quality of building , this one still makes a nice whittling tongue or a first pocket knife for a young person .
Get the Old Timer pouch tongue atOld Timer .
Best For Camping
Buck Knives 110 Folding Hunter Knife
The Buck 110 has been around nearly 60 years with a loyal out-of-doors conform to from the start . As with other classical plan , it has its fair contribution of lighter , sleeker competition and expert who direct out its flaws — such as its 7.35 ounce being too bulky to bear well in a pouch . But for a camp knife that does it all , from prepping dinner to splitting firing for the campfire and much , much more , it ’s tough to outfox the 110 .
With its lack of specialisation , Buck ’s iconic folding hunt tongue works as a labor - indifferent camp instrument . The wide upswept snip - point steel made of heat - treated 420HC steel is well shaped and proportioned for thrust , slicing , chopping , and cosmopolitan cutting tasks . It is design for two - handed operation with a nail channel , and the lockback is positioned to the rear of the handle . The one we tested sport beautiful Crelicam ebony do by scales . It also comes with a leather belt sheath .
Beyond its weight , which is nearly twice that of most pocket knives , we first notice the Buck 110 ’s unequaled nontraditional appearance . The dispirited , linear clip - point brand depart a foresightful reach of useful square bound toward the rear and midsection , which was utile for cutting rope and shaving stick . The stomach of the blade angled somewhat forward , where we could apply more force for slicing apples or core . The whole vane was clayey enough to rive tinder and the needlelike peak proffer excellent piercing ability . When we dulled the vane , it was dissolute and light to resharpen — and it was very sharp .
Get the Buck knife 110 pocket knife atAmazonorBuck Knives .
Best Swiss Army Knife
Victorinox Swiss Army Pioneer X Alox Pocket Knife
With more than 100 Victorinox Swiss Army Knife models on the market , it was surprisingly easy to expose our top pick . The Pioneer X Alox includes the nine most popular tools plant across the Swiss Army tongue spectrum , but replaces the iconic red-faced Cellidor with sleek , textured aluminum scale . The resultant is a lightweight 3.5 - oz. tongue that is packed with utile cock and stocky enough to carry in the pocket
This model include a 2.5 - inch tongue blade , scissors grip , a juicer / punch , can opener , small screwdriver , bottleful opener , large screwdriver , telegram stemmer , and key gang . The brand and tools are made of high - carbon unstained steel that take and hold an edge extremely well . color on the matt atomic number 13 scales is the iconic Victorinox cross - and - shield logotype .
A few things stood out when we unfold the Pioneer X. First , we noted that the bright atomic number 13 hold scales would be much more seeable and hard to misplace than even the traditional red Swiss Army tongue handle on virtually any open . Plus , it is textured to reduce slippage in sweaty hands . While the Alox ’s sides do n’t allow for the tweezers and toothpick slots find on most other models , we still preferred this one .
Next , after a quick inventory of the tools , we envision that all of our favorites were include . The older Pioneer models did not have scissors grip , so including them here was an excellent upgrade . In exercise , we find that we used the scissor hold about 25 percent of the time and the leaf blade about 60 per centum of the time the week we carry this knife .
With so many tool choice , we were more or less surprised to find only one tongue steel , but the one here proved to be just right for all of our needs . It was most good and well-off for whittling , cutting roach , and alike tasks . It ’s a bit modest for camp food preparation or other big job . It held its edge well through the cuts , and it was fast and well-heeled to resharpen .
Though disappoint by the lack of a true Phillips screwdriver , the included “ lowly screwdriver ” can take on many of those covering . The can and bottle openers worked well , and we preferred the lick / juicer on this knife over the awl found on some other model we ’ve used in the past . In our belief , the Pioneer X offered more of the “ right ” prick and less excess than any Swiss Army knife we ’ve used in the past tense .
Get the Victorinox Swiss Army Pioneer air pocket tongue atAmazon , REI , orSwiss Knife Shop .
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing theBest Pocket Knife
To come up apocket knifefor mundane economic consumption , take these crucial shopping considerations into account .
Intended Use
A pocket knife can be extend and used on a daily ground or stowed in a shaft box for episodic use . Typically , a pocket knife has three broad United States : general function , camping , and self - defence .
Keep in mind that there may be country and local laws that limit carry certain kinds of pocket knife . Check the local political science internet site and look up theAmerican Knife and Tool Institute ’s guideon state knife laws to ensure that the scoop tongue in interrogative sentence is legal to carry .
Size
As the terminal figure imply , a traditional pocket knife is small enough to meet well inside a pocket ; also small , a clip - on air hole knife attaches to a belt or the outside of the air pocket for convenience . The ordinary pocket knife will have about a 3 - inch - foresightful blade and a 4 - in handle , with a weight of roughly 3.5 ounces . However , good pocket knife may be available in large versions for extensive - accident aim , like trimming firewood , or smaller ones for whittling or precision cut .
Blade Material
Pocket - tongue blade are mostly untarnished steel and carbon steel , though some are made out of laminated steel .
Blade Length and Shape
sack knife amount in a mixture of shapes and size , induce it easy to find a tongue with the ideal blade length and shape to suit a kitchen range of dissimilar labor and purposes . Common varieties admit drop - detail , clip - point , gig - point , tanto , and sheepsfoot knives .
Locking Mechanism
sure close down tongue , typically spring - assisted models , feature a locking mechanism . dissimilar kinds of knives habituate unlike whorl type , including lining , frame , lockback , and leash locking mechanism .
Handle
The blade of a tongue is often the most important feature article , but the grip greatly affects the balance , weight unit , and durability of the knife . It ’s also the part of the knife responsible for consolation , and a misfortunate bobby pin can put up to helping hand weariness . Pocket - knife handles are usually made of forest , plastic , G10 , or stainless steel .
Weight and Balance
The weight , balance , and overall control of the knife are determined by three main factors : distal tapering , the tang , and the handle .
Additional Features
scoop knife typically have a undivided blade that blossom forth for a sort of press cutting , slice , or piercing purposes , but many models have additional features like a saltation - wait on hatchway , cryptical - carry pocket clip , build - in flashlight , nursing bottle opener , or even a windowpane - breaking putz for escaping a car in an emergency .
outpouring - assisted pocket knives have a spring mechanism in the pivot or handgrip of the tongue that will increase the opening speed and make it easy to open up using only one hand . Pocket clips can be used to keep back the tongue on the exterior of a pocket or belt for wanton access , while a torch in the handle of the knife can avail illuminate a dreary camping area .
FAQs
For more information about a Modern air hole knife , look at these answer to some frequently asked questions .
Q. What are the best pocket-knife brands?
air pocket knives are produce by awide variety of brands , but some of the best let in Benchmade , Buck Knives , Victorinox , and the Columbia River Knife & Tool Company ( CRKT ) .
Q.How much does a good pocket knife cost?
A good pouch knife can range in price from as little as under $ 25 to a premium option that exceeds $ 200 . However , on average you could expect to devote about $ 75 for a dependable pocket tongue that will last longer than a single camping slip .
Q. What is the best pocket-knife steel?
Most pouch knife are made out of stainless steel or carbon sword . Stainless brand is good for corrosion resistance , but carbon paper steel holds the sharpness of the blade for a long period of time without needing to be sharpened . However , laminated steel is corrosion - insubordinate , and it ’s the sharpest pocket - knife brand due to the layering procedure .
Q.What is the best pocket knife sharpener?
There are many differentpocket - knife sharpenersto take from , so what might be right for one knife may not be the best selection for a different knife . Some of the top air pocket knife sharpener include theWork Sharp Guided Field SharpenerandSmith ’s CCKS 2 - tone Knife Sharpener .
Q.How do I sharpen a pocket knife?
There are many different way tosharpen a pocket tongue , but the most common method acting employs asharpening stone . Lay the blade of the knife compressed on the endocarp , then angle it just slightly while push the tongue off from the body , like examine to slue off a piece of the focalize I. F. Stone . Or lay the brand flat on the stone with a slender slant , and then sharpen the tongue by applying insistency to the blade and moving the knife in a pocket-size circular motion against the gem .
As an alternative to a heighten gem , think purchase apocket knife sharpener , which is sluttish to habituate but may not attain the same quality of resultant .
Q.How do I clean a pocket knife?
Q.How do I get the rust off a pocket knife?
Remove rust from a pocket knife with an abrasive steel pad , a household rust fungus - removal solution such as blank vinegar , or a commercialrust removerthat utilise a chemic solvent to clean rust from the blade .
Q.How do I close a pocket knife?
To shut a scoop knife , bind the tongue by the sides of the hilt , ensuring that no fingers are over the memory board slot for the tongue blade , then fascinate the blade securely with the other hand and push the knife into the one-armed bandit slowly . If the tongue has a steel lock , unlock the blade before closing the tongue .
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