Up-And-Coming Knife Brands to Watch in 2025 (With Standout Picks)
New brands are pushing fresh ideas into our pockets, and some of them are already punching well above their weight. If you love proven names like Spyderco, WE, and ZT but want to explore smaller makers with real momentum, this guide highlights the emerging companies worth our attention right now. We cover value, innovation, and the models that best show what each brand can do.
Spotlight on Emerging Knife Makers Worth Watching
Here are the fast risers we think deserve a spot on your shortlist. These brands are either new to our store within the past year or are young companies doing standout work.
- North Mountain Blade
- Vosteed
- BIGiDESIGN
- Roxon
- Honorable mentions: Three Rivers Manufacturing, SRM Knives
Why these brands? Each offers something distinct. North Mountain is dialing in value and feel in a way that stands out. Vosteed keeps pushing lock innovation. BIGiDESIGN nails refined simplicity in small EDCs. Roxon brings true modularity to multi-tools. TRM and SRM are not new names, but they are recent adds to our store and they continue to impress with focused, user-first designs.
North Mountain Blade: Bold Designs, Big Value
North Mountain Blade is an import brand doing its own thing, not just chasing the same formulas we see from other new companies. The vibe mixes classic mechanical feel with modern materials and smart pricing. The price-to-quality ratio is genuinely strong across the lineup, even on models that are not budget knives.
Here are three models that showcase what they do well:
- BBNM, a Dwayne Dwyer design
This is an overbuilt titanium frame lock that leans into an older school feel. It uses washers in the pivot and skips the flipper tab, which gives it a smooth, controlled action rather than a fidget-first snap. It feels stout, confident, and purpose built. - Lucky Dog, clipless and confident
A big folder with no pocket clip is a statement. The Lucky Dog pairs a laminated, san mai style blade with the Lee Williams Kickstop, which hides the flipper tab during use. The action is clean and the handle is very comfortable in hand. At this price, it feels like you are getting more than you paid for. - Chop 2, our exclusive under 100 dollars
We liked the brand enough to collaborate quickly. The Chop 2 is a button lock flipper that hits way above its price class, with tuning and features that make it one of the best sub-100 dollar button locks available. It was restocked recently for those who missed it the first time.
Bottom line: North Mountain Blade is worth watching for confident design choices, strong fit and finish for the money, and models that feel distinct rather than trendy.
Vosteed: Lock Innovation You Can Feel
Vosteed is only a few years old, and the founder came from Kizer. In that short time, they have focused hard on locking systems and usability. From unique lock mechanisms like their Vanchor lock to user-friendly updates to classics like the pinch (Compression) lock, they keep trying new things while keeping the knives approachable.
- Psyop 229
The Psyop 229 (pictured above) features a button-actuated pinch lock, which takes the essential design of the Compression lock and makes it more user-friendly by adding a button. The result is simple to use and fun without feeling like a gimmick.
We like where Vosteed is headed. Expect more new lock ideas and finely-tuned ergonomics that feel right on day one. While the brand has been on our site for a couple of years, it remains one of the most forward-leaning younger companies in terms of design.
BIGiDESIGN: Refined Simplicity for EDC
BIGiDESIGN built a reputation with EDC gear like pens and utility blades, then started bringing that clean, functional design language to proper knives. Their recent folders show restraint and taste, with smart details that make them feel complete rather than flashy.
- Overlook
The Overlook is small, tidy, and dialed in. It carries like a sleek EDC tool but feels thoughtful in every detail. Pulling off simple and refined is hard, and this one does it. If you like compact knives that disappear in pocket, this is a strong pick.
We have seen steady improvement in their knife designs, and we are excited to see what they add next to the lineup.
Roxon: Real Modularity in Multi-Tools
The multi-tool space needs fresh thinking, and Roxon is answering that call. The Flex series brings true modularity to both full-size and Swiss Army–sized formats. You can swap implements quickly without the need for extra tools or fasteners, and the system is easy to learn and downright fun to use.
- Flex Series
This approach lets us build the tool we want without living with extras we do not need. It is practical for work in the trades, outdoor kits, or anyone who likes dialing in their loadout for specific jobs.
Roxon is singlehandedly expanding the multi-tool ecosystem. If you like to customize, this is the brand to watch.
Other Noteworthy Newcomers
- Three Rivers Manufacturing (TRM)
TRM has been around for decades making parts for other brands, but the reach of their own brand is growing and we’re thrilled to be a part of spreading their world-class knives to a broader market. Their focused and consistent approach delivers knives that are beautifully made in the USA, well priced, and extremely high-performance. - SRM Knives
SRM has done a lot of OEM work over the years, but now its own lineup is pushing to the forefront with smart features and stunningly good value. Another recent addition to our site and worth a look.
How to Choose the Right Up-and-Comer for You
A quick way to narrow the field is to match your use to each brand’s strength.
- Want standout value and a bold design language?
Look at North Mountain Blade. The BBNM and Chop 2 show both ends of their range well. - Curious for innovative lock mechanics that are easy to live with?
Try the Vosteed Psyop 229. - Prefer compact, refined EDC with a minimalist aesthetic?
The BIGiDESIGN Overlook is a strong daily carry option. - Need a multi-tool you can configure for specific tasks?
The Roxon Flex series is built for that. - Like small-batch feel and user-first ergonomics?
Browse Three Rivers Manufacturing. - Want compelling budget designs from a brand with deep knifemaking roots?
Check out SRM Knives.
The Bottom Line on These Brands
Each company listed here has a clear point of view. That is what sets them apart in a crowded market. If you like strong value with unique designs, North Mountain Blade is the one to watch. If you want fresh lock ideas, Vosteed is a leader among newer brands. If you carry light and prefer clean lines, BIGiDESIGN makes that easy. If you want a smarter multi-tool, Roxon is pushing the category forward. Round it out with TRM and SRM for thoughtful design and steady execution.
Conclusion
Smaller and newer brands are putting real thought into how we carry and use our tools. We see better value, cleaner design, and useful innovation across this group. If you want something fresh that still works hard, this is a great place to look next. Which brand here matches your style and use? Pick one, carry it for a month, and see how it changes your routine. Then come back and tell us what surprised you most.