What is a Pocket Knife? A Pocket Knife Buying Guide
Pocket Knife Guide
Knives are essential tools that can trace their roots back to the very origins of civilization itself. The simple blades that early humans used for hunting and survival—originally nothing more than pointy rocks—have evolved alongside us into sophisticated marvels of modern engineering. However, one thing has remained the same: they are still essential! Cooking, crafting, and self-reliance require a cutting tool that can keep up with the pace of everyday life, and today’s pocket knives are the answer.
What is a Pocket Knife?
A pocket knife, also called a folding knife, is a knife with a blade that retracts or folds into the handle. This folding mechanism makes them safe and convenient to carry in a pocket or bag, which is why they’re known as “pocket knives.” They usually feature a pivot point for opening and closing the blade, along with locks or springs to keep the blade securely in place whether open or closed. Although pocket knives may not offer the same strength or handle comfort as fixed blade knives, their more compact form factor makes them incredibly convenient for everyday use.
Why Carry a Pocket Knife?
- Utility: Because life is full of unopened packages, zip ties, loose threads, and uncut food. Remember, hands are dull and dentists are expensive!
- Convenience: When you really need a knife, no other tool does the trick. Having one close by can be a huge time-saver. Once you get used to always having a knife within arm’s reach, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without one.
- Preparedness: A sharp, reliable knife is a crucial tool for emergencies, whether cutting a seatbelt after a car accident or defending yourself in a survival situation.
- Safety: Pocket knives are much safer than the usual alternatives. Opening a package with a pair of unfolded scissors, for example, is way more risky than just using a pocket knife.
- Self-Reliance: Having a pocket knife fosters independence, allowing you to handle small, everyday challenges without needing other tools.
- Outdoor Utility: Whether camping, hiking, or fishing, a pocket knife an absolute necessity for outdoor recreation—don’t leave home without one!
- Durability: A quality pocket knife is built to last, a sturdy tool that will become a cherished possession over years of steadfast service.
- Craftsmanship: By and large, the kind of knives you’ll find here at the KnifeCenter are built by brands with a genuine passion for crafting great cutting tools. If pride in craftsmanship is something you appreciate, you can find it in a pocket knife.
- Personal Expression: In addition to being great tools, pocket knives can also be a form of creative and artistic expression. Imaginative designs, exotic materials, and innovative engineering that fold and fit in your pocket!
Key Features to Consider
Pocket Knife Types
When choosing a pocket knife, it’s important to consider its intended purpose. If you’re looking for an everyday carry (EDC) knife, you’ll want something lightweight and versatile for tasks like opening boxes or cutting food. For outdoor enthusiasts, a hunting or fishing knife may be more suitable, designed for dressing game or cleaning fish. If self-defense is a priority, a tactical knife built for reliability and protection might be the best choice. In case of emergencies, a rescue knife with specialized features for high-pressure situations could be essential. Finally, if craftsmanship and uniqueness are your focus, a custom knife offers exceptional quality and a personalized touch.
Pocket Knife Blade Type and Shape
Characterized by a spine that “drops” down gently and a belly that rises up to meet it, drop point blades offer lots of variety and are arguably the most well-rounded blade shape for any and all cutting tasks.
Unlike the gentle slope of the spine on a drop point, the spine of a clip point blade veers towards the tip at an abrupt angle, “clipping” the forward portion of the blade. Generally, clip point blades have a pointier, more acute tip.
If the tip is higher than the spine of the blade at the handle, it is said to have a trailing point. You may also hear this blade shape referred to as “Persian” or “upswept.”
Wharncliffe blades have a perfectly straight edge and a spine that tapers dramatically to meet it at a very precise tip.
Traditionally, sheepsfoot blades have a spine that runs parallel to the edge before dropping steeply to meet it at a broad, somewhat blunted tip.
These blades are easy to spot because of their concave, hook-like silhouette. Much like a claw, talon, or beak, this blade “gathers” material as you cut, making them highly effective tools that resist slipping out of a cut.
Tanto blades have a secondary point where the edge abruptly changes direction. It may be helpful to think of tanto blades as having two edges: one that goes from the tip to the secondary point, and another from that point to the heel of the blade.
Pocket Knife Lock Types
One of the coolest aspects of collecting modern pocket knives are all the different locking mechanisms available today. If you’re wondering which one is the best, consult our in-depth guide: What Is The Best Pocket Knife Lock?
A Lockback (or back lock) pocket knife uses a spring loaded lock bar inline with the blade with a “tooth” on the end. This tooth fits into a notch in the blade and keeps the blade from closing.
A liner lock pocket knife uses the metal liner that supports the handle as a leaf spring to lock the knife. When the blade is opened, a portion of the liner flexes over and clicks into place against the tang of the blade.
The frame lock is an evolution of the liner lock that uses a portion of the handle, usually steel or titanium, to flex into place against the tang of the blade to lock it in place. This allows more metal to secure the blade than a liner lock and is generally seen as stronger.
A button lock uses a spring-loaded post to secure the blade in the open position. This post sticks out of one side of the handle to form the button that you push to disengage the lock. One advantage of a button lock is that your fingers never cross the path of the blade when operating the lock.
Crossbar Lock is the industry-standard name for the lock originally offered by Benchmade under the AXIS-Lock name. A metal bar sticks through both sides of the handle attached to springs that push it forward into the back of the blade. Since the crossbar protrudes from both sides, operation is fully ambidextrous and keeps your fingers out of the path of the blade.
Slide Lock
Slide Locks use a sliding switch to open and close the blade. The blade is held in both the open and closed positions by a locking gate that digs into a notch in the blade. When the slider is pushed in the direction you want the blade to go, spring tension is loaded against the gate until a groove in the mechanism causes the gate to fold, releasing the spring and sending the blade open or closed.
Compression Lock
Originally invented by Spyderco, the Compression Lock utilizes a tab-shaped cutout in the liner that fits between the stop pin and the tang of the blade when opened. This allows the locking force to be spread in multiple directions, making it much stronger than a conventional liner lock. This lock also has the advantage of keeping your fingers out of the blade’s path when closing the knife.
Pocket Knife Sizes and Weight Considerations
Keeping in mind any local legal restrictions on blade length, the size and weight of a pocket knife significantly impact its functionality and portability. A smaller, lighter knife is easier to carry and more convenient for everyday tasks like opening packages or preparing food, making it ideal for everyday carry (EDC). However, a larger knife may offer better leverage and cutting power, which is beneficial for tougher tasks like cutting rope or processing game. Heavier knives can feel sturdier and may provide more durability, but they can be cumbersome to carry for long periods. Striking the right balance between size, weight, and the intended use is crucial for maximizing both portability and effectiveness.
Pocket Knife Handle Materials and Ergonomics
Different handle materials all have their own unique characteristics, but ultimately there is no wrong choice. The way a pocket knife feels depends more on how the handle is shaped and finished than what exactly it’s made of, so feel free to try something new to find what works best for you. Our guide to choosing the right knife handle material is the perfect reference to help get you pointed in the right direction.
How To Choose a Pocket Knife
To find the right knife, first identify what you intend to use it for. Different knives are optimized for different tasks—slicing, chopping, or carving, for example—so it’s important to choose the right tool for the job. Once you know what you want your knife to do well, you’re well on your way to finding the right knife for you.
- Set your budget: We sell quality knives at all different price points, so setting a budget is a great way to narrow down the options to help you get started with your selection.
- Select your size: Size matters when it comes to knives, especially because some locations have limits on the blade length you’re allowed to carry. Plus, legal considerations aside, blade length also determines the size and capabilities of your pocket knife. Smaller knives take up less space in your pocket, but larger knives give you more reach and edge to work with.
- Pick your features: What lock type do you want? What deployment method—thumb studs, flipper, opening hole, etc.—do you prefer? Do you need a deep-carry pocket clip? Narrow down your options using our multiselect menu to help focus on the knives that are right for you.
- Go with your gut: Ultimately, your choice of pocket knife is a personal decision, and there’s no rationalizing away what you really want. Sometimes, you just know it when you see it—trust your gut and you’ll end up with a knife you’ll look forward to putting in your pocket.
What is a Pocket Knife – Frequently Asked Questions
- Where can I buy a pocket knife?
- The best place to buy a pocket knife is knifecenter.com. We are the original online knife store, doing business since 1995, and our staff of knife experts is always happy to help you find the perfect pocket knife.
- How much should I expect to pay for a quality pocket knife?
- You can find a quality knife for less, but we recommend spending at least $30. Above that price, you begin to unlock extra performance with better blade steel, precise fit & finish, higher quality materials, and trustworthy warranty support.
- What is the best pocket knife for outdoor activities?
- Above all else, a pocket knife for outdoor activities should be strong and comfortable. Look for something with a robust locking mechanism and a well-sized sturdy handle.
- Why is blade material important in pocket knives?
- Blade steel determines how long a knife will hold an edge, how tough it is, and how stain-resistant it will be. Modern particle-metallurgy alloys can be astonishingly good, offering long-lasting performance that is markedly better than the simple steels of the past. The technical world of blade steels can be intimidating, so we’ve put together this handy guide to help educate and inform your purchasing decision: The Comprehensive Guide to the Best Knife Steels
- How do I maintain my pocket knife?
- Keep it sharp, keep it dry, and make sure the hardware is properly tightened. For more specific tips and tricks, consult our Ultimate Guide to Proper Maintenance.
- What legal considerations should I be aware of when carrying a pocket knife?
- Knife laws are a patchwork of overlapping local, state, and federal regulations, so it’s best to consult a local lawyer or law enforcement agency for the most up-to-date guidance for your area.
- Are there pocket knives suitable for children or beginners?
- Yes! Knives are essential tools for living, and everyone needs to learn how to use them safely. Look for something with a rounded tip, either a small fixed blade or something with a sturdy locking mechanism to prevent accidental closure.