The Best Folding Knives Heading into 2025

The folding knife is reliable, versatile, and easy to carry. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a hunter, or someone who simply values being prepared, choosing the right folding knife is a must. It's a tool that simplifies the little challenges that come our way around the house or on the go.

The Short Answer: Our top 10 folding knives (in no particular order) are:

1. BattlePlan 3.35" (Black)
2. BattlePlan 3.35" (Tan)
3. Titania-I 2.75"
4. Furrow 2.9"
5. ADAHA 3.43"
6. Lil Choncho 2.2" (Drop Point)
7. Lil Choncho 2.2" (Cleaver)
8. Noesis 2.75"
9. Infima 3.26"
10. Ecesis 3.00"

What Makes a Good Folding Knife?

Material Considerations

The quality and durability of folding knives depend heavily on chosen materials. Stainless steel is a popular choice for blades due to its high corrosion resistance and strength, meaning a stainless steel blade can retain sharpness over prolonged use and withstand various cutting tasks.

Handle material is as crucial as the blade. Lightweight options like carbon fiber are favored by some, while others prefer the rugged feel of materials like G10. A handle should provide comfort and a secure grip, regardless of the chosen material.

Key Features to Look For

Additional features can enhance a folding knife's usability. These include thumb studs for easy one-hand opening and reliable locking mechanisms like liner locks or button locks to secure the blade during use. Additional features such as a deep carry pocket clip for easy portability and ergonomic handle for a better grip contribute to the overall utility of the folding knife. How you prioritize different features will come down to personal preference.

Size & Versatility

A folding knife's size impacts its versatility and portability. Smaller knives are convenient for carrying and suit light tasks, while a larger-inch blade can be more suitable for demanding tasks. A good folding knife should find a balance between compactness and adequate blade length. A well-made folding knife is not only useful as a tool, but it also serves as a dependable sidekick in your daily life. Also, pay attention to the blade shape. Different blades cater to different (ex: A drop point blade for outdoor tasks).

Keep in mind that an expensive knife does not always equal a good knife. It is far more important to look for materials, features, and blade shape rather than the price range. There are premium knives that fall short in certain areas, while there are affordable knives that offer quality blade steel and every feature you could ask for.

Smith's Top 10 folding knives

Now that we've addressed what makes a good folding knife, let's have a look at some of the best EDC knives in our collection.

1. BattlePlan 3.35" (Black): Boasts a rugged look with its black stonewash finish and custom G10 material handle. Its 400 series stainless steel blade provides reliable performance.
2. BattlePlan 3.35" (Tan): This variant shares the same desirable traits as its black finish version but in a different aesthetic option.
3. Titania-I 2.75": Features a blade with 3/4" of serrations and robust titanium handles, making it both versatile and durable.
4. Furrow 2.9": With rugged titanium handles for a secure grip and a 400 series stainless steel blade, the Furrow shines in functionality and aesthetics.
5. ADAHA 3.43": Boasts a natural wood handle grip and a reliable flipper for easy opening.
6. Lil Choncho 2.2" (Drop Point): Offers a highly sharp 2.2" blade and comes with rugged G10 handles for a sturdy grip.
7. Lil Choncho 2.2" (Cleaver):This variant has a unique blade design that provides an extra cutting edge while maintaining the same excellent features as the Drop Point version.
8. Noesis 2.75": Highlighted by a bead blast finish and a sturdy frame lock design. Its handy pocket clip makes it an ideal pick for everyday carry.
9. Infima 3.26": Slender and versatile, the Infima distinguishes itself with its bead blast stainless steel finish and easy opening mechanism.
10. Ecesis 3.00": Sports a mix of natural wood and rugged stainless steel handles, the Ecesis ensures a balance between style and practicality.

These folding knives register among Smith's best, thanks to their high-end materials, carefully designed features, and meticulous attention to durability and utility. Whether you seek a companion for outdoor adventures or a trusty tool for everyday tasks, these folding knives from Smith's range cater to every need.

Smith’s, Since 1886

From the quality of materials to blade length and ergonomics, there are lots of considerations that go into selecting the best pocket knife. No one understands this better than Smith's, which is why we considered all of these aspects when designing our line of folding knives. So, what are you waiting for? Visit our dedicated folding knife collection page and see firsthand the wide variety of knives available, each designed to accommodate a myriad of needs and preferences. Need to keep a sharp edge? Check out our collection of pocket knife sharpeners!

Article reviewed 11/20/2024:

Ricky Dukes

Vice President Marketing and Product Development

About the Reviewer:

Ricky Dukes has been leading the marketing and product development resources at Smith's Consumer Products for over 7 years. In that time, Ricky has become an expert in the world of knives and sharpeners including a deep understanding of their applications and uses.

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