Ranking of the best folding knife brands in 2022

A folding knife is a rather specific product. This design appeared relatively recently and has already managed to win a large number of fans. However, like any weapon (even the simplest and smallest knife can be used as a weapon), it requires careful attention and serious attitude.

The popularity of folding blades is primarily due to their compactness and extraordinary versatility. Due to its minimal size, such a tool will be an excellent solution for hiking, fishing or hunting. But how do you choose a good folding knife? Let's try to figure it out.

How to choose the right folding knife

There are several types of division of goods: by purpose and design. Further more details about each of them.

By appointment

Folding knives are divided into several types according to the field of application.

1. Construction. This variety is intended exclusively for the needs of builders and people whose activities are related to repair work. As a rule, products have a break-off type blade and a plastic or metal body. The blade extension mechanism is made in the form of a groove with locking notches. You can fix the cutting part with a wheel or a sliding lock. The first method is preferred.
2. Fishing. For fishing, a knife with a rubberized handle is used, which allows you to securely hold the tool with wet hands or in fish mucus. The cutting part is a narrow blade, which is convenient for cleaning and carving fish. Moreover, if the blade is thick and wide, working with fish carcasses will be much more difficult.
3. Hunting. For hunting, a design with a thick and wide blade is chosen, convenient for butchering animal carcasses, cutting branches and other useful activities. Handles are made of plastic, rubber or wood. This design provides maximum comfort and versatility of use.
4. Tourist. Devices for tourism have average performance in all respects - they are reliable, easy to use and multifunctional.You can often find a tourist folding knife equipped with a small nail file, scissors and a spoon. However, due to such a “complete set”, the overall quality of the elements often suffers.

According to the opening mechanism

At this stage, it is necessary to look at the quality of the mechanism, and not an attractive design. Serious finger injuries due to a suddenly closed blade can be easily and quickly. A similar "surprise" can be obtained by saving on latches and the ejection mechanism. The following are the main types of knives by type of opening.

1. The most common and easiest method of opening is manual. The bottom line is the forced opening of the mechanism with both hands. The reason for the prevalence lies in the elementary and reliable design, which rarely fails. Such knives, with proper care, can serve for decades without a single breakdown.
2. Flip blade - this method is less common due to the complexity of execution, high cost and short service life. Despite the extreme comfort of use, switchblades have a serious drawback - the opening mechanism often breaks and is extremely sensitive to various kinds of debris. Also, users are repelled by the price - a solid product that can serve for a relatively long time costs commensurate with two or three knives of a different design. Additionally, the release button or lever is extremely sensitive, which can cause involuntary triggering of the design in the pocket.
3. Pin mechanism. The principle of operation is similar to the previous one with a difference in the principle of operation. The mechanical pin is reliably protected from arbitrary descent, which has a positive effect on safety.

Other Options

1. Material - a blade made of hardened steel with a hardness of 50-60 units according to the standard Rockwell table is considered ideal. When the index is lowered, the blade becomes too soft, which requires frequent sharpening. A value above the permissible value indicates the fragility of the blade, so if the load is not straight, the knife can be broken. Additionally, a grade that is too hard is difficult to sharpen.
2. Comfort is an indicator of importance not inferior to the rest. A comfortable handle is always better than an uncomfortable handle. This factor is extremely important due to possible complications during the work. An improperly selected knife can rub the hand to bloody calluses or slip out during the load, which often causes serious injuries. The handle should lie comfortably in the hand, not cause discomfort during the load.

Extra options

It is worth mentioning the indicators that will be inappropriate or interfere with work.

1. Fashion design. When buying a specialized knife, a beautiful look is the last thing you should pay attention to. Better than a solid, practical blade, there can only be a very solid and practical blade.
2. Multifunctionality. Experts recommend that when choosing between a simple and "fancy" product, give preference to the first. The opinion is argued by the fact that the simplest design is the most reliable.

Rating of the best folding knife manufacturers in 2022

Zero Tolerance Knives

Price - depends on the model

In tenth place is the youngest company, whose existence began in 2006. The new organization broke into the cutlery market and immediately made a lot of noise. The production is based on modern technology.Custom models are harmoniously complemented by a decent level of quality, which is very popular with the sophisticated public.

The high cost of the manufacturer's knives is justified by the constant introduction of advanced technologies. Also, the new model of the company, presented in the form of a combination of a modern steel alloy blade and a titanium handle, is causing a stir. In this case, the hardness index of the blade is close to 60 units.

• excellent build quality;
• a huge selection of models;
• attractive design.

• solid cost of copies.

cold steel

Price - depends on the model

The next representative of the rating is a young company from the USA. Production began at the beginning of 1980, and since then the expansion of the range of edged weapons has not stopped. Today, the choice of products is replete with classic representatives and models of a very exotic type.

Such dispersion of the company does not cause any complaints about the quality of products. The main advantage of the manufacturer's folding knives is the famous quality of the mechanisms. The fittings of products are able to endure harsh operating conditions and a careless attitude.

Attracts users with the best value for money. The company's models are distinguished by sufficient hardness of the blades, durable handles and decent fittings.

• Excellent value for money and quality;
• excellent design features.

• poor assortment.

VICTORINOX

Price - depends on the model

Famous manufacturer of folding knives from Switzerland. Additionally, the oldest company has a monopoly on the supply of weapons to the army of the state.From the very beginning of activity, a full-fledged production of a large assortment of modifications has been organized, which is constantly increasing.

To date, there is a full range of hunting, fishing blades of different price segments. Also in 2015, the company launched the production of products intended for tourism purposes. Actually, the innovative solution immediately gained popularity among buyers - the first batch was sold out in a very short time.

Also, the phenomenal popularity is due to the huge selection and decent quality of multi-tools for various purposes.

• a huge selection of models;
• Swiss quality;
• monopoly on the manufacture of army models.

• decent price tag.

Gerber

Price - depends on the model

An American company specializing in the production of high-quality folding structures for various purposes. The long history of production begins in 1939, when edged weapons of all stripes gained popularity in the States. Initially, the company's products were not of high quality. But the manufacturer's constant desire to develop and improve the production process has become the foundation for creating a famous brand.

In 2022, the organization occupies a leading position in the world in the organization of production, which allows you to sculpt really high-quality weapons and tools.

Users love the huge selection of products and the use of innovative solutions that never let the owners down.

• decent build quality;
• excellent choice of model;
• great experience in production.

• mediocre design.

Emerson Knives

Price - depends on the model

The next manufacturer from the USA, which boasts a huge range. The historical start of production occurred in 1979 after the sale of the first model. After that, the development of the organization did not stop. Today, the company has a huge range of products that stand out for their excellent balance of features. There are no models of a multi-functional type, however, most versions are adapted for the most difficult working conditions and loads.

Users consider the disproportionate prices for products to be the only drawback of the company. The simplest, original models cost from $100 per unit.

• extensive experience in the production of knives;
• decent build quality;
• thoughtful ergonomics;
• great blades.

• disproportionate cost of production.

Benchmade

Price - depends on the model

Another representative of the American industry in the world of edged weapons. The organization came to the market rather late - as of 1979, the market was replete with various models, and there was no need for a new one. However, competent management focused on the manufacture of "butterflies", which were categorically lacking. The reception worked, and the company quickly gained popularity as a reliable and responsible organization.

However, full-fledged popularity came to the organizers after the release of a series of folding blades with a wide range of applications. Modern developments attract users with their accessibility and practicality, which is appreciated by beginners and professionals.

In 2022, small folding hunting knives, as well as blades for fishing, are especially popular.

• excellent blade quality
• decent build.

• controversial design.

Opinel

Price - depends on the model

Next in line is the people's representative, who began his history about 200 years ago. The French organization from the very start of work has focused on the availability of products. The average line of blades of the manufacturer costs around 2000 rubles. per unit, which attracts a large number of consumers from all over the world.

The main emphasis is on the folding model, which allows you to focus on one task. This solution allows you to create products with a working part, a hardness of about 60 units and decent fittings. The most important point for the domestic consumer is the low price.

• minimum cost;
• optimal performance.

• some modifications have weak locks.

Buck Knives

Price - depends on the model

Third on the list is an American folding knife manufacturer with a big name. The company began its existence in 1902 and has been distinguished by high quality products ever since.

The blades of the company are not distinguished by innovative solutions and the introduction of cutting-edge technologies, but this does not lower the bar of reliability. The main trump card of the organization is that professionals of the highest level work on the creation of knives, which allows, using classical technology, to obtain the maximum characteristics of the blades.

Skillful craftsmen know how to push the limits of proven alloys, thus ensuring an affordable price and decent product quality.

The main "repertoire" of products consists of hunting knives for small and large animals.

• using proven forging and casting methods;
• solid assembly;
• optimal functionality.

• controversial design;
• marriage comes across.

Kershaw

Price - depends on the model

The silver medalist of the rating is a well-known company specializing in the production of folding and fixed knives for various purposes.

Optimal functionality is harmoniously complemented by an attractive price, which is appreciated by many users. In the arsenal of the organization there are models of knives designed for hunting, fishing, tourism and hiking.

After the reorganization of production, the company opened the European market for itself, and very successfully. Due to the low price and good reliability, the models are very fond of domestic users.

• Excellent value for money and quality;
• attractive design;
• decent ergonomics.

• some users complain about the narrow specialization of individual instances.

Spyderco

Price - depends on the model

The gold medal goes to the company that has managed to attract users with a harmonious combination of design, quality and ergonomics.

However, when competitors tried to release the maximum number of models on the market, the leader of the rating focused on the production of a narrow line with individual designs that are recognizable even 40 years after the start of sales.

Users especially like the aggressive appearance of the products and good technical performance. The combination of the above factors makes Spyderco knives in demand among fishermen, hunters and simple bladed weapon lovers.

• unique design;
• good assembly;
• quality steel.

• not detected.

Premium folding knives

The section contains the best models of folding cutters of various brands.

Shirogorov Quantum 9.5 cm

Quality goods of Russian production. It is considered the best among tactical folding knives. The most innovative engineering solutions were used in the development and manufacture. Designed for domestic use. Product size - medium, blade - premium powder mass brand M 390, handle - titanium alloy. The size of the handle is such that it is convenient to take it with a palm of any size. There is a pattern on the plates. Clip with bevels, which allows it not to cut into the hand with a hard grip. Sold in stylish packaging.

The price of the goods is 54,700 rubles.

• practicality;
• quality;
• quality factor;
• universality;
• functionality;
• durability.

• overpriced.

Olamic Cutlery WhipperSnapper 7.1

The American model is considered new. Made from premium powder coated steel. Russian craftsmen worked on the design. The product is small in size, elementarily fits in a pocket. Combines the qualities of a functional folder and a unique accessory. The butt is 3.5 mm thick. In the manufacture of the blade, a luxury material was used - steel, which is distinguished by corrosion resistance and durability. On the butt there are decorative elements and transverse notches for the thumb. In the manufacture of a straight handle, a titanium alloy is used. Equipped with a triangular hole for a lanyard. Lock - Flame - Lock. For fastening on a belt or pocket, there is a clip made of timascus or titanium. Weight - 85 grams, unfolded length - 17.5 cm.

The average price is 60890 rubles.

• premium - class;
• limited edition;
• collectible model;
• handmade;
• nobility of appearance;
• universality;
• functionality;
• the quality of the material used;
• durability.

• too expensive for everyday use.

Quartermaster Knives QTR-4 Hannibal 12.9

Product of American origin, 27.9 cm long (folded - 16.0 cm). Weighs 329 grams. The blade is made of powdered steel with a hardness of 58 - 60. The handle is made of fiberglass and has additional processing. Knife lock - Subliminal Flame - Lock. The manufacturer has taken care of protection against accidental opening. There is a clip for carrying on a pocket or a belt.

The average price is 29140 rubles.

• attractive appearance;
• thoughtful design;
• reliability;
• universality;
• functionality;
• build quality.

• The price may not be to everyone's taste.

Chris Reeve Large Sebenza 25

The product is manufactured by an American company. The length of the product is 21.2 cm when opened. Weight - 145 grams. Powder steel blade, hardness 58 - 59. Titanium alloy handle. Supplied in a genuine leather case. There is a system from unintentional opening. There is a lanyard. It is supposed to be carried in a pocket or on a belt. There is a hole in the back of the handle for a lanyard or tether.

The product can be purchased at a price of 52330 rubles.

• build quality;
• quality factor;
• practicality;
• functionality;
• long operating life.

• not suitable for everyday use.

Honor Caesar Elite, Bronze

Does not apply to melee weapons. An excellent gift for those who are used to having the best in their property, regardless of the cost. The model has no frills, only pure functionality. The manufacturer paid great attention to ergonomics. In the open state, the length of the product is 22.8 cm. It fits perfectly into both a strong male palm and a miniature female hand. Suitable for tourists, hunters, fishermen, gardeners - amateurs, craftsmen. The blade is made of powder steel of sufficient hardness. Sharpening is not necessary. The handle is made from titanium alloy. When painting it, the method of electrochemical anodizing is used. The result is the color of aged bronze.

The average cost is 14999 rubles.

• universality;
• functionality;
• practicality;
• quality factor;
• quality of materials;
• attractive appearance;
• value for money.

• not identified.

Cougar

The item is designed for everyday wear. In the manufacture of the blade, steel D 2 is used. A find for those who have expressed a desire to purchase an effective folding knife with large dimensions, but it’s a pity to spend money on famous European brands. The appearance of the product impresses with its aggressiveness and rigor, as well as restraint. Able to complete assigned tasks. The scope of application is diverse: ready to skin game, help in cooking, make wood crafts, cut plastic pipes in the process of construction work. For tourists and those who like to eat barbecue in the forest, an indispensable thing. Feel free to carry in a backpack.

The product can be purchased at a price of 5650 rubles.

• reliability;
• functionality;
• quality;
• practicality;
• durability;
• acceptable price;
• designed for daily use.

• not identified.

Outcome

Whatever the knife, its characteristics will not be able to provide sufficient efficiency if used incorrectly. Experts note that even the most expensive models, when used for other purposes, can fail at the most critical moment.

Important! The knife is always chosen based on personal needs. You should not buy a fishing model for hunting or vice versa.