10 Cheap Knives Everyone Should Own: Essential Blades That Won’t Break the Bank

Knives are tools we use every day, whether in the kitchen, out camping, or just opening a stubborn package. While premium models can get expensive, many affordable knives deliver strong performance, impressive durability, and surprising quality. We’re here to show that “budget” doesn’t mean you have to settle for less. There’s a wide range of dependable knives out there for every type of user and every budget.

In this post, we review ten cheap knives that everyone should consider owning. These picks come straight from the KnifeCenter team, as featured in their YouTube video. This expert-curated list focuses on function, value, and smart design, making these knives excellent additions to any collection.

Why should you care about budget knives? Here’s why affordable knives often make the most sense:

• Versatile: Great for a range of everyday and outdoor tasks
• Beginner-friendly: Low price means less worry about wear and tear
• Good performance: Many modern budget knives match or beat pricier models in utility

Previously, KnifeCenter compiled a more open-ended Top 10 Knives Everyone Should Own, but today we’re sticking to genuinely affordable blades that don’t skimp on quality or usefulness.

Affordable Knives That Stand the Test of Time

Before exploring the official picks, let’s mention a few time-tested knives that still set a standard for quality at a lower price point. These are often found on “must-own” lists and serve as reference points for value and reliability.

• Ontario RAT Model 1
  • No nonsense working knife
  • 3.6″ full flat grind blade
  • Robust enough for tough jobs
  • Simple, durable handle

• Buck 110 Slim Select
  • Heritage, American-made design
  • Lightweight, slim profile
  • Reliable and easy to carry

• Opinel No. 8
  • Classic French folder
  • Super-thin, ultra-slicey blade
  • Not meant for heavy-duty tasks

While these might not make the new top 10 list, they’re benchmarks for affordable utility and solid craftsmanship.

Morakniv Companion: A Fixed Blade Icon for Every Budget

The Morakniv Companion has built a reputation as the best budget fixed blade you can buy. It’s a prime example of how smart design can meet real-world needs for a fraction of the price of premium models.

Key Features of the Morakniv Companion:

• Blade options: Carbon steel or Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel
• Length: Approximately 3/4 length tang for stability without excess weight
• Factory edge: Impressively sharp right out of the box

The construction is practical and straightforward. We get a thin blade with a Scandi grind, which stands out for wood carving, general camp chores, and bushcraft. The injected molded sheath adds value without cutting corners on essentials. All materials feel thoughtfully chosen for their price, balancing quality and economy.

Practical Uses:

• Bushcraft and camping (ideal for beginners)
• Yard and garden work
• Household tasks

What truly elevates the Morakniv Companion is its ergonomically considered shape. The handle features tapers and swells that fit the hand comfortably, providing a secure grip often missing from more expensive fixed blades.

Why the Morakniv Companion Stands Out:

• Lightweight, compact, and easy to sharpen
• Broad range of models and colors
• Perfect for glove boxes, garages, or as a backup in a tool kit
• Unmatched value: almost any other knife seems overpriced compared to this

Bushcrafters, campers, and anyone needing a durable sharp knife should have at least one Morakniv in their kit.

TB Outdoor Bivouac: The Ultimate Hobo Knife for Fun and Function

The TB Outdoor Bivouac is proof that knives can be affordable, quirky, and incredibly handy. It channels the “hobo knife” spirit—offering more than just a blade.

Unique Features:

• Knife blade: About 3.5,” stainless, robust enough for basic use
• Spoon: Slides out for meals or stirring, includes a bit driver and small screwdriver tip
• Fork: Folds out on the opposite side
• Corkscrew: Essential for the picnic crowd
• Bottle opener / foil cutter: Versatile edge at the handle tip
• Sheath with ‘kickstand’: Lets you prop up the knife (likely to keep it out of messy workspaces)

Design-wise, it’s a military surplus item—not refined, but sturdy and fun. Each tool deploys individually for real eating and prep functions, unlike many “hobo knives” where tools fold out in one direction and can’t be used together.

Sturdy, affordable, and full of personality, this one’s great for collectors, campers, and anyone who likes novelty tools that work. At this price, it’s easy to justify as a glove box backup, picnic companion, or unique addition to any collection.

Swiss Army Bantam Alox: Top Choice for a Slim, High-Utility Everyday Carry

Few tools pack as much punch per ounce as the Victorinox Swiss Army Bantam Alox. This is an ultra slim, multi-functional combo tool that disappears in any pocket.

Key Benefits:

• Minimalism: Only two tools—a sharp blade and a combo tool—but tons of uses
• Combo tool functions:
  • Bottle opener
  • Light prying
  • Flathead and Phillips screwdriver (in a pinch)
  • Wire stripper
  • Can opener (it really works, albeit slowly)

There’s also a less expensive plastic-handled version, but adding bulk and losing the sleek metal feel takes away some of the special character, although you do gain a toothpick and tweezers in the process. The Alox Bantam can easily slip alongside keys, wallets, or gear options without weighing us down.

Personal use stories often include users initially doubting its slim profile, only to find it holds up to daily use. The knife is sturdy, maintains tight tolerances, and becomes trusted over time.

Why Pick the Swiss Army Bantam Alox?

• Carry anywhere: It’s almost invisible in a pocket or pouch
• Even non-multitool fans will appreciate the simplicity and usefulness
• If you want utility with zero fuss, this has you covered

A classic option for anyone wanting daily function without the classic bulk of larger multi-tools.

CJRB Ria: Where Simplicity Meets Modern Elegance

The CJRB Ria embodies a blend of modern features and classic styling, bringing an air of refinement to the affordable knife category. You get a graceful blade shape measuring three inches, crafted from 12C27 steel or CJRB’s proprietary RPM9 spray-form steel.

Key Features:

• Deep carry, discreet pocket clip
• Slim, lightweight construction
• Modern materials with a classic single-blade profile
• Simple yet original silhouette, not copying any older knife

The Ria’s liner lock system and smooth flipper action create a feel that’s as enjoyable for everyday users as for seasoned collectors. It brings to mind old-school slip joints but with the benefits of improved steel, secure lockup, and contemporary manufacturing.

The Ria delivers the classic profile of a gentleman’s knife, yet it stands out for how easily it blends into today’s EDC environments. Subtle, original, and truly useful, this knife punches above its price class.

QSP Penguin: The Enthusiast’s Budget Workhorse

The QSP Penguin has quickly become a staple in affordable knife circles. This knife is all about practical design and uncompromising functionality.

Top Features and Appeal:

• D2 steel blade: Holds an edge for a long time
• True sheepsfoot blade: Flat edge for precision cuts, great for everyday chores
• Washers in the pivot: Offer durability and smooth action
• Micarta handles: Comfortable and grippy, elevating the feel
• Reversible, deep carry pocket clip: Fully ambidextrous, lets us stash it low in the pocket

We see the Penguin as an enthusiast-friendly choice, with details like the classic sheepsfoot shape attracting both users and collectors. Compared to something like the Ontario RAT 1, the Penguin leans into style and uniqueness while remaining a serious tool.

• Affordable without feeling cheap
• Available in a range of handle and color options
• Satisfying flipping and locking action

If you want a workhorse that fits the bill for daily jobs and adds collector’s character, the QSP Penguin is a must-try.

Fast Action Flippers: Budget Folder Standouts

RUIKE P801: Sleek, Strong, and Effortless

For those who value a fast-opening, reliable folder, the RUIKE P801 delivers far more than its price tag would suggest.

Features We Appreciate:

• Frame lock for secure use
• Ball bearing flipper for fast, smooth deployment
• Stonewashed blade and handle that hide scratches and wear
• Sandvik 14C28N steel: a high-quality budget stainless steel

The P801 feels balanced, looks refined, and works great as an everyday slicer or utility blade. It has a slim build, deep pocket clip, and solid lockup for repeated, hard use. For under $40, it competes with much pricier models and just feels right in hand.

Sencut Sachse: Feature-Packed Button Lock

The Sencut Sachse stands out among today’s affordable button lock folders. It’s designed for enthusiasts and packed with quality details.

Notable Aspects:

• Button lock mechanism: Smooth, safe operation with one hand
• Micarta handles: Offer enhanced grip and style
• Spear point blade (around 3.5 inches) in durable 9Cr stainless
• Highly skeletonized liners reduce weight without compromising strength
• Thumb studs feature concentric circles for grip and feel

The Sencut Sachse is also lefty-friendly, with a reversible pocket clip. Even subtle touches like the unique liner hole pattern and scrollwork on the thumb studs make it feel bespoke far beyond its price point.

We think it’s one of the most compelling button lock knives in the affordable category, keeping pace with higher-priced competitors while standing on its own merits.

Value-Packed Large Knives: Fixed and Beater Models

Petrified Fish Pub: Big Value, Strong Looks

The Petrified Fish Pub is a knife that impresses us on sight and in the hand.

What Makes It Special:

• D2 blade steel, 3.75″ long, thicker profile with a full flat grind
• Sculpted G10 handles with contrasting inlays for visual pop and extra grip
• Ball bearing pivot ensures a smooth, quick flip every time
• Comes in a range of blade finishes and handle combinations
• Easily drops shut and feels built for heavy use

Given the sturdy build, attention to design, and undeniable bang-for-buck, this is a knife we’d expect to pay double or more for just a few years ago. It’s proof that true value can be both rugged and good looking.

Cold Steel SR1 Lite, SRK, and Recon Tanto: Heavy Duty, Low Cost

Cold Steel offers some of the toughest affordable knives on the market—perfect for those who want a “beater” they can trust.

Cold Steel SR1 Lite

• Strong and chunky 4-inch 8Cr steel blade
• Tri-ad lock: Extremely strong, outperforms standard lockbacks
• 4.8mm spine thickness for ultimate strength
• Ideal when you need to use a knife hard or for prying, chopping, or even as a stand-in hammer

Cold Steel SRK and Recon Tanto:

• SRK: 6” SK5 carbon steel blade
• Recon Tanto: 7” blade
• Fixed blades built for everything from camp work to emergency kits to glove box duty
• Oversized handles provide comfort, especially in gloves or cold weather
• Fully encapsulated tang for safety and security

More Options and Final Thoughts

Budget-friendly knives don’t have to feel cheap or disposable. The models above prove that anyone can get quality tools without overspending. Whether you’re a collector, a first-time buyer, or just want a dependable backup, these knives are must-have additions for any kit or collection.