Home Forums Gear Knives and Blades Best EDC Folder

I know it's rather subjective, and can vary widely depending on what industry/type of work one does. However, curious as to what everyone is using for an edc folder. I haven't really carried a pocket knife for years, but recently have found myself needing a knife for various tasks. Currently I have a Benchmade 535 Bugout. It's a nice enough knife, but the handle leaves much to be desired as there's no reinforcement, so the handle tends to flex a bit.

Thinking about trying something else.

Trying to narrow it down to one knife that fits all possible criteria better than any other knife, such as ergonomics, blade shape, thickness, steel type/edge type, price, weight, sharpening skill, sharpening habits, etc.

Must haves:

1. Has to be sharp, and hold an edge well.
2. Must lock securely
3. Must be dependable
4. Relatively inexpensive (under 150)


So, what are you gents using? Pictures, blade material, and model names appreciated.

One knife for EDC? Impossible...

The world is your oyster.
Go to Knifecenter.com and look for something YOU like.

https://northarmknives.com/product-category/folding-knives/

$186? I can’t speak highly enough about mine. Some may remember me singing it’s praise previously. They could charge double and I would still buy one again.

im happy with my spyderco delica.
Thin in the pocket, light, clip makes a great money clip...
its my best gasket scraper, Phillips screw driver, pry bar, and tooth pick I own.

I've been carrying a Real Steel 101 "Thor" for the past few months and really like it. I open many packages at work every day so the knife gets lots of use. It holds an edge well and locks securely. The blade rides on ball bearings, action is super smooth and it deploys effortlessly in a flash. I have a drawer full of knives from all the major manufacturers and you simply can't beat it for anywhere near the price.

Keeping in your price range I would say Spyderco Pm2. Comes in different steels and scales. If you want to up the price ZT 0562 CF is my preferred edc. You can get a very nice used one if you keep your eyes out for around 170$.

EDC to me is using a knife for everything. Cutting spam. Peeling wire back. Cutting shipping bands. Scraping off an old gasket. Slicing summer sausage.

The Rat 2 does all perfectly. The aus8 is easy to sharpen. For $25. Win win.

Just got on the waiting list

I'm rather partial to this one too.

I really need to stop visiting this forum.

The new model with D2 steel is an improvement and only costs $37.

For the past 45 years I have primarily carried a Stockman pattern pocketknife. I've gone from the Premium Stockman size (4") down to a Pen size (3") but finally settled on the Medium Stockman (3-1/2") as perfect for my needs. I like having three blades available; as to brand I have accumulated a decent number of Stockman, but several by Case and Buck are my top prefered carries. The Case come with either CV or SS, Buck only available in SS. I prefer SS for keeping it clean, but CV is fine too and my two favorites are CV. This old Case 6332 is one of my favorites.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=s7cXdQQPBCM

Can’t stand the guys voice but it’s a good video on the skaha.

It’s a sickness!!! 🤣

How long is the wait for one? Any estimate? Also see they offer carbon fiber now. That would be really slick.

Didn't say woodson, just said I've been added to the list, monthly they go through the list and book up the next group...

I just picked up an ESEE / BRK zancudo folder in D2 that I'm really liking. For $35 it seems like a winner to me, so far edge retention has been really good.

ESEE Zancudo D2

I carry a kabar dozier that I use and abuse. For $20 it does what I need and I haven’t lost it yet.

I also carry a kabar dozier 4064. Been totin it for about 12 years, see no reason to change.

Been on a spending spree, buying up a bunch of knives to determine what works best for me. So far, this one is ahead of the pack:

Spyderco Gayle Bradley Folder #2

The gb2 is a great knife, (I sure love me some M4) but the lock is very difficult to unlock. If that’s not a problem it’s really a great knife, although I like the gb1 better.

Edited to add: you should also consider the stretch 2, pm2, and manix 2. Those last two are popular for a reason. The pm2 is my favorite out of those, but I like the blade of the stretch better.

I don't doubt that there's better but the Spyderco Native/Delica are really good for the money. You could pay allot more for cheaper steel.

My new edc is Buck 830 Marksman. It has an awesome locking mechanism and is a really easy flipper to open. Solid knife!

I’m a bit of a knife geek... had about all of them.

Surprisingly the Ontario RAT 2 puts cold steel, spyderco, benchmade, .. to shame.

It’s extremely well built and cheaper than those.

https://www.bladehq.com/item--Ontario-RAT-Model-2-Knife-Folder--16434

Right now they are on sale, buy one and you’ll never look back.

The Rat II is indeed a great bang for the $.

Had both the I & II but personally prefer a better steel, and better lock. Currently splitting time between a Chris Reeve small Sebenza and Spyderco Sage 2. Really like the frame lock design.

I have been carrying a Rat2 in D2 steel, and I have to say I really like it. Initially I thought is on he big side, but it is easy to fit in my watch pocket on my 511 pants.
It really stays sharp, and I have yet to stone it. I have stropped it a few times, and it is maintains an edge. Not chips so far. And because it was 40 bucks, I don't baby it, or really care if I lose it.
I agree it is a great bang for the buck, and still consumable at the price point.

I like the Blade Tech Pro Hunter, not the junior model. Meets all your requirements with an S30V blade that really holds an edge well. No longer available but can be found on the giant auction site. Worth looking for.

Great picture of the Gayle Bradley. Great knife.

Benchmade Adamas 275. Certainly a brute of a knife, and one that you won't wear out.

This has been my every day carry since I bought it.
Theirs been some bad reviews with this model, but mostly the non pro version.
I’ve never had any problems with mine and I wouldn’t recommend the non pro model.
The G10 stiffens the knife up. The plastic non pro isn’t durable.
IMO not worth the $100 price tag but I didn’t pay that for it so I’m good.
https://www.buckknives.com/product/112-slim-knife-pro/0112FAM03/

I've carried a Delica for years and didn't think it could be any better. I just picked up a Native 5 on clearance ($37.99) and I think the Delica's been consigned to second place.

Spyderco PMII for me.

This is pretty slick too.

https://www.massdrop.com/buy/massdrop-x-gavko-thresher

Where did you buy a Native for $38?

Fantastic knife!

This Camillus built scout knife has been riding in my front pocket for many years. It's a very useful design!

Sherwood

I work at a gunshop and a distributor (RSR) was clearing them out. So I ordered some for the shop and bought one of them. The owner allows us to order at cost.

Benchmade mini griptilian.

https://www.gerbergear.com/Knives/Folding/EAB-Pocket-Knife_22-41830

Out of all there knives I’ve carried this is the handiest, easiest to carry . Even run the blade though a two disc carbide sharpener and it’s back to brand new. And CHEAP!

I've been a Kershaw fan for a while now. Regardless of the model, they just seem to fit me well, balance perfectly, and take an edge easily.

Current EDC = Blur with S30V blade




I used to carry the Blackout ST, but I lost a couple of 'em, & found the Blur. I found I actually prefer a drop point, anyway.




The 3/4 ton is a cheapie that still has its charms. I believe 'twas $9.95 on sale, and doesn't have opening assist. Still, it's hell-for-tough, opens with barely a wrist flick, and takes an edge lickety-split. This one rides in the center console.







Not to be left out is the Link, which came to me via the generosity of KillerTraylor at the recent 24HCF hog hunt. It's a finger opener, that has the same excellent balance and edge-taking ease as the others.





FC

I agree with the value of a one hand opening knife

I'm on board with a secure locking mechanism

And I like a great steel that takes and holds an edge.

But despite all that, and I've got knives with all those qualities, my current everyday knife is the SAK Farmer. It does so many things so well...

The alox Farmer is a great pocket knife. So is the plastic handled Hiker model.

benchmade bugout and the spyderco paramilitary 2 have been my favorites. the spyderco is more robust but the benchmade is a little more portable.

agree that these are good ones. the select is a whole lotta knife for $30-35, but like you said not as durable.

This is what I've been carrying for a little over a year now. Small enough to not be an issue carrying, but still manages to be quite handy when needed.

Squid

You can find perfectly serviceable older Stockman knives on eBay for $10-15 shipped. I have a Ranger but there are scads of them from makers like Imperial, Old Cutler and the like that will have 1095 steel blades and can be slicey dicers

Have also dabbled I’m the bargain Barlow offerings on eBay.

With all this recent talk about the Rat II, I thought I should try one - this showed up yesterday...

I'm also liking the Rat II in D2. I'm not in love with the blade shape, but it works, and I like their D2 better than any factory S30V I've used.

I got the black blade, and the paint comes off pretty quick, but who cares.

Coming late to the party. Have carried a Benchmade on the farm for almost 30 years. I think it is called a CQC7 or something close. Damn tough piece of hardware. Have used it to repair fence tape, cut bale wrappers, twine on the baler, etc. Ended up buying a multi grit diamond stone and learned to gently bring back the edge. I also agree with Mogwai about the medium stockman. Wouldn't be without it. Carry both. For up close, personal encounters I am enjoying having a ZT 0350TS. Thanks to a couple of you other guys, now I've got the itch for a Rat II. I'm beginning to think this site might be the death of my check book.

Benchmade 710 everyday.

Don't know if it's the best, but I've been carrying a Benchmade 551 Sand for over 15 years. Like I said recently, in another forum, If I'm awake and wearing pants, there's a Griptilian clipped to the pocket.

Trusting it is pants or nothing, right?

Liking the rat, here.

Right.

Is there another option. Tried clipping it to the waistband of my drawers, but my wife said I just look silly.

A few of the Pioneers I really like

Mike

Best EDC Folder ?
- - - - - - - - - - -

I have lots of knives, many inexpensive ones, that I still esteem - from Sodbuster Jr. to Kershaw stonewashed, etc.

But today I joined THE CLUB !!! - A garage sale find on a table in a dark back area of the garage where
two ladies sat at the end of this table by the cash box, and right across from me sat a quiet older gentleman.

As I looked into a shallow box of unrelated mish-mash items labeled - '75 Cents For Each Object' . . .

I saw a rather disgusting cheaply made, ugly looking designed folding knife in the low light.
I picked the knife up gingerly trying to make out just how 'bad' this splotchy coated knife is?
As I'm trying to make something out of the knife in the dark, I notice on the top of the blade near the spine -
the 'BUTTERFLY' !

I asked the man if this was his knife? He said, Yes, I carried it every day for many years.
I told the gentleman, I think this is a really good knife - He smiled.
I offered the ladies more than the 75 cents asked - I wanted to pay more but still needed some of what I had.

When I got home I took a wash cloth and went after the dull total coating of time, dust & grime - I guess.
Everything that I thought looked like abrasion, corrosion, whatever - all came off with just a wet rag, yielding
a near perfect knife underneath all the grime.

This knife is 100% - Unbelievable! There IS a big difference in this knife compared to any other knife I've ever owned.
I went to the bank and got some cash, then to the corner of the garage sale sign - but driving down the
winding street, the houses all look alike and all the garage doors were closed.

I'll try again tomorrow morning. Hope to make things fairer above board.
I now have my first Benchmade Knife ever, It's an Osborne design 154 cm - EDC.

A Diamond in the Rough!

Yes the RAT continues to impress.

i don't know about best, but I've carried a 154CM mini-grip for the past 2 1/2 yrs, and it holds a good edge and usually only needs a stropping to bring it back to shaving sharp. I think I've actually only put it on a stone two or three times during that time. I had recently retired when I got it, and it's been used almost daily for everything around here and out at our farm that a knife would be used on. Except deer, other knives (Tim Olt semi-spear is awesome) are better suited, but I'm sure it would do just fine if needed.

after reading mixed reviews of the buck slim 112 pro, i just had to have one. it is not up to benchmade craftsmanship, but a whole lotta S30V knife for approx $70. the only thing i dont like is the clip, which is kinda like a short bus afterthought. easy to remove, of course. i liked the knife enough that i also got the 110 version, which is better for most cutting applications, it just doesnt EDC as well.

I give the paint a D, but it cuts like a sonofabitch, and pretty much does everything else I want. Slim enough to actually EDC, which is a huge plus.

Will probably go without coating on my next one.

I started a few years ago with a Spyderco PM2 and after that with and Spyderco endura vg10 steel , easier to sharpen . In the last couple of years it’s a Spyderco Military in S30v ( I like the lock better and it’s an easier, safer way to close for me ) . I have a few more Military’s in Rex45 and M4 and cruwear, but those are over 150. When I’m out hunting I usually carry a ltright rogue river fixed blade in A2 I think . Or a aa forge fixed blade .

Since last Thursday, I have been carrying a Benchmade Mini Grip. Very close to perfect.

Sam, as big as your hands are I'm surprised you like the Mini Grip. It's aptly named, the handle is definitely on the small side.

By the parameters set by the OP, I would choose a ZT 0566.

ZT 0566

I have a ZT 770CF but can't warm up to their knives with the frame lock. It looks weird with scales only on one side and I don't like the lock exposed...just my opinion...

Understood, that the beauty of so many choices. Then again, a solid Buck 110 is hard to beat also.

On the RAT 2, prefer D2 or AUS-8? Seems like for an inexpensive knife the cheaper one would be fine, but I like the idea of long lasting edge that is more likely with D2

This thread sparked my interest for a beater EDC so I ordered a RAT 2 in AUS-8 only because of some negative comments about the (their) D2 quality. First impressions after a couple of weeks of use, RAT 2 is a bit smaller than I thought it would be even though I read the measurements. The steel seems to hold up ok, simple tasks like cutting hay bale strings, opening wood shavings bags and cardboard boxes. Sliced several jalapeños from the garden last just to play with it. The knife was very sharp when I got it and stays that way with a few strokes on ceramic V rods a couple of times a week, I try to keep a knife sharp when I can rather than having to rebuild an edge. Quality exceeds my expectations so far especially considering the price. I am seriously considering a RAT 1, probably in D2.

I carried a Benchmade Mini AFCK for many years until I became more enamored with the tip up style carry. I switched to a Spyderco Delica with wave opener which I recently lost while fishing. I've purchased a few knives in the last few weeks trying to find the perfect replacement but haven't made a firm decision yet. The afck had fantastic ergonomics which I've yet to find in a replacement, the Delica was slim and light but I didn't like the backlock for one handed closing. I regularly clip my knife inside my waistband when kayak fishing so my fallback will be one of the Salt series from Spyderco if I can't find something with a easier lock for one hand operation. If they would just release the AFCK with updated steel and tip-up carry I would be really happy.

Landed Yesterday...

Benchmade Bugout
3.24" S30V
Putman G10
1.95OZ

Spyderco PM2... BTW, I have both sizes of AFCK and for old school Benchmade knives they are excellent. Mine are the liner lock versions. When Benchmade added the AFCK to the Axis lock line up it was a nice improvement.

The G10 scales are a very nice upgrade from the flimsy plastic factory scales. That is a nice EDC!

I have or have had too many EDC's over the years to count. From very inexpensive {under 20.00} Gerbers, Ka-Bar's and Kershaws to Spyderco Natives and Benchmade Griptilian and Stryker. I bought a Real Steel T101 "Thor" last year, have been carrying it daily ever since and can honestly say I like it better than anything else I've had. I like a good sized EDC with enough handle for a good grip and plenty of cutting power and the Thor delivers without being overly bulky. It is less bulky than the Griptilian but with it's G-10 scales and full length stainless steel liners is also more robust with virtually no handle flex under heavy load. The 3 3/4" blade of Sandvic 14C28N has a high flat grind, is ground thin at the cutting edge and slices like a champ. It also takes and holds a very fine, razor sharp edge for a good long time. Yes it is made in China but is VERY WELL put together. Fit and finish is at least the equal of my Spydies and Benchmades. The blade pivots on ball bearings and the action is SUPER SMOOTH. It flips open lightning fast and effortlessly with the flipper tab and locks up like a bank vault. Anyone who dismisses these knives because of their Country of origin is missing out on a great deal. For 50.00 I don't think there is anything else out there that comes close to the quality and performance and don't think anything under 150.00 can beat it. At least not that I've found so far and I've got a drawer and glass display case full of knives.

despise the BlueTheme, ...is what it be

awesome

p.s. the rat and rat ii are a LOT of knife for the $$.

have heard/ seen Same on InterWeb KnifeSites

prolly should pull that Trigger also...

I'm really not trying to be an ass here. It just struck me a little odd to not have carried a pocket knife for years and have a pile of requirements. You might want to just try out a few things and then decide. Just a few thoughts about them.

1. Definitely needs to be sharp. A dull knife will get you into trouble. Hold an edge well? That can mean alot of things. Some knives hold an edge really well, but they take a good deal of work to get sharp. I kind of like a balance between easy to sharpen and hold an edge. I tend to stay away from some of the modern super steels. I like 1095, D2, 440C and Case's variations.

2. I don't care for locking blades (though I'm not totally against them). I like a slip joint because I'm a little old fashioned and that's what paw paw had. The problem with lockers is that they can and do fail and if you aren't handling a knife properly, you'll get hurt. IMO, if you need a knife that can't fold when you don't need it to, a fixed blade is what you want. There are some pretty small/handy fixed blades out there. I almost always have a LT Wright Patriot in my pocket and that might be a good option if you need something heavy duty.

3. Plenty of options here. There are even some dependable, cheap, Chinese made options (Rough Rider comes to mind). Victorinox, Case, GEC, Buck, Leatherman, Kershaw, Benchmade all generally make a good one.

4. See 3.

Another thought, Something in the 3 inch range (closed) like a Case Peanut, Victorinox Cadet.... maybe even in the 3.5 inch range Victorinox Cadet, Case Medium Stockman will fit nicely in that little watch pocket in a pair of jeans. Makes it easy to access and keeps the knife from getting lost with keys and whatnot.

I have a RAT II in D2. It gets really sharp and hasn't shown any tendency to corrosion. Holds an edge well. I like it!

I've got one coming to see what all the commotion is about. Although I usually carry my Leatherman Surge, heavy bugger but comes in handy on many occasions.

Totally agree. The D2 is the way to go for the extra $10-12.

Been using the R2 in D2 for several months exclusively as my EDC and have been very happy with it. I'm tempted to get another for a spare.

R2 strikes a good balance between portability and cutability. ive always thought that a longer blade is preferable in every scenario ... except portability. i would carry my spyderco military everywhere if it left room for anything else in my pocket.

For me my favorite folder for EDC Hands down is a Benchmade Griptilion

I’ve been thinking about this way too much! I like single blade lock blades and the Rat 1 and 2 are great values. I have both and carry them frequently. BUT, I’m a country boy and encounter multiple chores in the course of the day. That points out the value of multiple blades. When in civilization, the mid sized stockman is a great option but when I wander into the Bush, I always lean toward an SAK Farmer

One knife for edc is a blasphemy but the farmer or stockman are great choices if you can only have one. They are economical and practical

ZT 0562, custom scale and hardware.

Kizer rogue has been my go to for a year or so. Love it.

Just got my Rat II and damn it! Made in Taiwan guys really? My bad shoulda researched it better. Won’t be buying another. But it appears like a hell of a deal for the coin. Was hoping to get relatives some for gifts but I’m not giving anyone a gift made in Taiwan.

Buck 285 Bantam BLW in Fluorescent Orange Camo. Whether gutting a deer, cutting twine, stripping wire insulation, you name it, it does it all. And it's made in the US.

You get a knife with D2 steel for $40 and you think it would be American made?

They make some world class products products. Semiconductors, chemicals, metallurgy etc.. I had reservations as well, and I will say this is a quality product at a price point that is a heck of a deal. fwiw

This thread should be more clear.

Best EDC Folder

or

Best affordable EDC Folder

Then give a price range of what you consider affordable.

Man it upset the hell outta me seeing made in Tawian. It’s a great knife. I’m prolly gonna grind made in tawianoff outta pride. I always try my best to buy American.

Look plucker I expected solid members bought America. Again my bad . It phlucking bothers the hell outta me flipping a blade open seeing made in plucking Taiwan. Won’t buy another. So yea my bad. Thought you plucks we’re into America. Your choice to buy commie as mine to buy American. Yea I screwed up. What’s worse owning a bench made or buying Tawian

Ease up on Taiwan, I was stationed there for a while and they are good people. Taiwan is a republic like we are.

Oh, and I like my Gerber

Taiwan isn't "commie". You're messing up all around. I bet none of your clothes are made in the US, either.

Geez... another thread gone to hell... I took it for granted that we all knew that Taiwan was a democracy of sorts. Taiwan is not part of mainland China. U.S. government thinks highly enough of them that we are preparing a sale of F-16's and tanks.
But none of that has anything to do with playing with knives or maybe it does.

I try to buy made in the USA stuff, but I don't want to be bent over to do so.

That being said, you thought it was a good knife before you found out right? Some fella in Taiwan probably thought so, when he was making it.