Top 10 Knives Every Knife Enthusiast Should Own

Have you ever wondered what it takes to build a truly great knife collection? It’s not just about owning a bunch of knives; it’s about understanding the history, the innovation, and the artistry that goes into each one. We believe a well-rounded collection should tell a story, and that’s exactly what we’re aiming for with our list of ten essential knives. These aren’t just any knives; they’re carefully chosen to represent the evolution of knife design and provide a solid foundation for appreciating the modern knife world. This list is organized alphabetically by brand, not by ranking or importance, so let’s get started!

Check out all the knives in one place!

Benchmade Bugout: The Lightweight Slicer

The Benchmade Bugout isn’t just a lightweight knife; it’s a statement. When it was released, it helped refocus the industry on the importance of thin blades and slicing performance. The blade shape is a phenomenal EDC design, perfect for slicing tasks. Despite its light weight (1.8 ounces) and thin profile, the Bugout offers a full-size cutting experience.

• Base models feature S30V steel for excellent edge retention.
• The standard handle material is Grivory, but upgraded options like carbon fiber and aluminum are available.
• The Bugout is proudly made in the USA.

Experience the AXIS Lock

One of the key reasons the Bugout makes our list is the opportunity to experience a crossbar lock, specifically Benchmade’s AXIS lock. This ambidextrous system allows for easy flick opening and closing while keeping your fingers out of the path of the blade. Although the patent has expired, and other companies now use similar mechanisms, the AXIS lock remains a fantastic and modern locking system.

Buck 110 Folding Hunter: The Original Lockback

The Buck 110 Folding Hunter is an icon. Outside of a Swiss Army Knife, it’s probably the most recognizable folding knife in the world. To truly appreciate its impact, it’s essential to own the classic version. The Buck 110’s influence was so profound that for a time, any similar knife was simply called a “Buck knife.”

• It features 420HC steel, known for its durability and ease of sharpening.
• The handle is made with ebony wood inlays, often sourced from Taylor Guitars.
• The blade length is 3.75 inches.
• It comes with a leather belt sheath.

Classic Construction

The Buck 110 boasts a classic construction with ebony wood inlays and brass bolsters, giving it a satisfying weight in hand. The 420HC steel blade features a clip point hunting knife profile, making it a versatile tool.

If you prefer a more modern carry option, check out the newer slim versions with pocket clips and upgraded handle materials like FRN, G10, or micarta.

Case Peanut: Small Size, Big Utility

Don’t let its size fool you, the Case Peanut packs a punch. This small knife has earned a cult collector status thanks to its surprising utility and classic design. The Peanut showcases classic Case slipjoint construction.

• You can choose between Tru-Sharp stainless steel or carbon steel (CV) for the blades.
• Like all Case Knives, the Peanut is available with a wide variety of handle materials
• Made in the USA in Bradford, PA.

Dual Blades and Collectibility

The Case Peanut features two blades: a standard clip point and a smaller pen blade. The Peanut is a popular knife to collect because of its small size and interesting color options.

Cold Steel Recon 1: The Working Man’s Tactical Folder

The Cold Steel Recon 1 is the quintessential working man’s tactical folder. It’s a solid, time-proven design that has been continuously updated over the years.

• The Recon features S35VN steel with a DLC coating for enhanced durability.
• The handles are made of G10 with finger grooves for a secure grip.
• The blade length is 4 inches.

Key Features

The Recon 1 is available with a clip point, drop point, or tanto blade shape, reversible thumb studs, and reversible pocket clips for ambidextrous carry.

The Triad Lock

The Cold Steel Triad lock gives impressive strength, even force distribution, and improved wear resistance compared to traditional lockbacks. This makes it a reliable choice for both tactical applications and heavy-duty everyday use.

KA-BAR USMC Fighting Knife: An Icon of Combat

The KA-BAR USMC Fighting Knife is one of the most recognizable fighting and combat knives in the world. Its historical significance and capable design have made it an icon.

• It features 1095CV carbon steel for toughness and edge retention.
• The handle is made of stacked leather for a comfortable and classic look.
• The blade length is 7 inches.
• It’s proudly made in the USA in Olean, NY.

Classic Design

The KA-BAR features a seven-inch blade. a swedge, and a fuller (often misidentified as a blood groove). The stamped cross guard and oval-shaped stacked leather handle contribute to its secure grip and classic aesthetic.

Variations and the Original

While there are different versions of the KA-BAR available with different handles and steels, we recommend owning the classic version with the stacked leather handle and carbon steel blade to experience its true heritage.

Kershaw Leek: The Quintessential EDC

The Kershaw Leek is a quintessential EDC (everyday carry) knife with a touch of gentleman’s knife style.

• The Leek features 14C28N steel, with other steel options available on upgraded models.
• The handle material is typically aluminum, with various finishes available.
• The Leek was designed by Ken Onion.
• It’s made in the USA in Tualatin, OR.

Ken Onion Design & SpeedSafe

Designed by Ken Onion, the Leek helped popularize Kershaw’s SpeedSafe assisted opening technology. This system uses a spring to assist in opening the blade once the user manually initiates the movement.

Blade and Handle Options

The Leek features a modified wharncliffe blade shape, known for its precision and control. It’s available with a frame lock or liner lock, and comes in a variety of handle finishes.

Any version of the Leek is a great addition to a knife collection.

Ontario RAT 1: The Hard-Working Affordable Knife

The Ontario RAT 1 set a new standard for what an affordable knife could be. It’s a hard-working tool that delivers exceptional value.

• It features AUS-8 steel, with D2 or S35VN available as an upgrade.
• The handle is made of glass-filled nylon for durability.
• The blade length is 3.6 inches.

Versatile Design

The RAT 1’s blade shape is popular among campers, bushcrafters, and anyone needing a durable EDC knife. The full flat grind enhances its slicing ability.

Handle and Ergonomics

The glass-filled nylon handles provide a solid grip, and the comfortable ergonomics make it suitable for extended use, even for those with larger hands.

For its price, it’s hard to find a harder-working knife than the Ontario RAT 1.

Opinel N08: A Piece of Knife History

The Opinel N08 is more than just a knife; it’s a piece of history. This traditional French peasant knife represents the oldest school of folding knives. Understanding its origins is essential for appreciating modern knife design.

• The Opinel N08 features 12C27 Sandvik stainless steel or carbon steel.
• The handle is made of beech wood.
• It is a traditional French design.

Simple and Effective

The Opinel’s construction is simple yet effective: a friction folder with a locking ring. Its thin, slicey blade is known for its sharpness.

Handle Comfort

The beech wood handle is comfortable and seamless, providing a secure grip.

Spyderco Delica: Innovation and Ergonomics

The Spyderco Delica shares its DNA with the original Spyderco Worker and represents the company’s innovative contributions to the folding knife world.

• The Delica features VG-10 steel, with upgraded options available.
• The handle is made of FRN (fiberglass reinforced nylon).
• It is made in Japan.

Spyderco’s Innovations

Spyderco is credited with popularizing the one-hand opening blade (thanks to the signature hole) and introducing the pocket clip to production folding knives. The pocket clip is now a standard feature on most folding knives.

Modern Features

The Delica features a four-position clip, ambidextrous blade opening, and a mid-mounted lockback, making it a versatile and user-friendly knife.

Victorinox Swiss Army Classic: The Keychain Essential

The Victorinox Swiss Army Classic SD is the most iconic and universally recommended Swiss Army Knife. Its compact size and versatile toolset make it an essential addition to any collection.

• The Classic includes a pen blade, nail file with screwdriver, scissors, toothpick, and tweezers.
• The handle is made of Cellidor or Alox (aluminum), with various color options available.
• It’s Swiss made.

Compact and Versatile

The Classic SD multi-tool is incredibly compact and fits easily on a keychain. Despite its small size, it offers a well-selected set of tools for everyday tasks.

Tons of Options

The Swiss Army Classic is available in a wide variety of colors, graphics, and handle materials, allowing you to personalize your choice.