Best Carbon Steel Pocket Knives of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 3, 2025

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Carbon steel pocket knives are a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and collectors alike. Made from a combination of iron and carbon, these knives are known for their durability and strength. They are also easy to sharpen, making them a reliable tool for any cutting task. Carbon steel pocket knives come in a variety of styles and sizes, from traditional folding knives to modern designs with ergonomic handles. With their sharp blades and sturdy construction, these knives are an essential tool for anyone who spends time outdoors.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

CASE XX Pocket Knife Amber Jig Bone Trapper CV Cover #TOP 1
CASE XX Pocket Knife Amber Jig Bone Trapper CV
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Case XX Mini Trapper CV Pocket Knife Cover #TOP 2
Case XX Mini Trapper CV Pocket Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Smith & Wesson CK400 5.4in High Carbon S.S. Folding Knife Cover #TOP 3
Smith & Wesson CK400 5.4in High Carbon S.S. Folding Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Carbon Steel Pocket Knives

#TOP 1

CASE XX Pocket Knife Amber Jig Bone Trapper CV

Case
00163
Amber Bone
3.3"
CASE XX Pocket Knife Amber Jig Bone Trapper CV Cover
Case XX WR Pocket Knife Trapper With Genuine Bone Handle, Carbon Steel Blade(s), Length Closed: 4 1/8 Inches (Amber Bone)

The CASE XX Pocket Knife Amber Jig Bone Trapper CV features carbon CV clip and spey blades, 4 1/8 inches length when closed, and made in Bradford, PA, USA. This pocket knife is perfect for everyday use in various projects around the house, outdoor activities, and hunting.

What We Like
Carbon CV clip and spey blades
4 1/8 inches length when closed
Made in Bradford, PA, USA
Suitable for everyday use in various projects around the house, outdoor activities, and hunting
Manufacturer's limited lifetime warranty
#TOP 2

Case XX Mini Trapper CV Pocket Knife

Case
00029
Yellow
Mini
Case XX Mini Trapper CV Pocket Knife Cover
CASE XX WR Pocket Knife Yellow Synthetic Mini Trapper Carbon Steel Item #029 - (3207 CS) - Length Closed: 3 1/2 Inches

Looking for a reliable pocket knife that can handle everyday projects around the house, outdoor activities, and hunting? Look no further than the Case XX Mini Trapper Knife. This American-made knife features two blades made of chrome vanadium steel - a clip and spey blade. The 3 1/2 inch closed length makes it easy to carry in your pocket. With its durable construction, the Mini Trapper is built to last and comes with a manufacturer's limited lifetime warranty. Whether you're a hunter or just need a reliable tool for everyday tasks, the Case XX Mini Trapper Knife is a great choice.

What We Like
Durable construction
Two blades
Compact size
#TOP 3

Smith & Wesson CK400 5.4in High Carbon S.S. Folding Knife

CK400
Multi
2.2"
Smith & Wesson CK400 5.4in High Carbon S.S. Folding Knife Cover
Smith & Wesson CK400 5.4in High Carbon S.S. Folding Knife with a 2.2in Drop Point Blade and Stainless Steel Handle for Outdoor, Tactical, Survival and EDC

The Smith & Wesson CK400 folding knife features a 2.2in drop point blade made of 7Cr17MoV high carbon stainless steel. Its stainless steel skeleton handle, frame lock and ambidextrous thumb knobs ensure durability, security, and easy access. This knife is also lightweight, weighing just 1.6 ounces, and has a convenient pocket clip for easy everyday carry. The stainless steel construction also helps prevent corrosion or staining.

What We Like
Durable and reliable high carbon stainless steel blade and skeleton handle
Easy access with pocket clip and ambidextrous thumb knobs
Secure frame lock to prevent blade slippage
#TOP 4

Kershaw Cannonball Drop Point Pocket Knife

2061
Gray
3.5"
Kershaw Cannonball Drop Point Pocket Knife Cover
Kershaw Cannonball Pocket Knife, 3.5" D2 Carbon Steel Drop Point Blade, assisted opening with Flipper, Frame Lock, EDC

The Kershaw Cannonball Drop Point Pocket Knife is an essential tool for heavy-duty and repeated use. The 3.5-inch blade is made with D2 Steel, ensuring remarkable edge retention. Its lightweight 4.5-inch stainless steel handle provides a perfect grip for an EDC work knife. The SpeedSafe opening mechanism allows for safe and quick opening, securing the blade with a frame lock. The BlackWash finish hides marks, making it an excellent everyday knife that's safe and easy to use. This knife is ideal for hunting, fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities.

What We Like
Remarkable edge retention
Lightweight and perfect grip for an EDC work knife
Safe and quick opening with a frame lock

Kershaw Endgame Pocket Knife

2095
Silver
3.3"
Kershaw Endgame Pocket Knife Cover
Kershaw Endgame Pocket Knife, 3.25" D2 Carbon Steel Spear Point Blade, Manual Flipper Opening, Frame Lock, Reversible Deep-Carry Pocketclip

The Kershaw Endgame Pocket Knife is a modern design, high-quality knife that is jam-packed with intricate design features. Equipped with a 3.25-inch D2 high-carbon tool steel blade and a stainless steel handle with glass-filled nylon inserts, the Endgame is contoured for comfortable finger placement and comes with a reversible deep-carry pocketclip. The knife is easy to open with a KVT ball-bearing system and flipper, and has a frame lock to secure the blade when open. Additionally, the Endgame is water-resistant and comes with Kershaw's Limited Lifetime Warranty.

What We Like
High-quality D2 high-carbon tool steel for excellent edge retention
Stainless steel handle with contoured design and glass-filled nylon inserts for comfortable finger placement
Easy to open with KVT ball-bearing system and flipper
Frame lock ensures safety during use
Water-resistant and backed by Kershaw's Limited Lifetime Warranty
#TOP 6

Old Timer 44OT Workmate Folding Pocket Knife

44OT
Brown
3.2"
Old Timer 44OT Workmate Folding Pocket Knife Cover
Old Timer 44OT Workmate Traditional Folding Pocket Knife with 4 High Carbon Stainless Steel Blades, Sawcut Handle, and Convenient Size for EDC, Whittling, Camping, Hunting, General Use, and Outdoors , Brown

The Old Timer 44OT Workmate Folding Pocket Knife is a reliable and durable tool suitable for everyday carry, whittling, camping, hunting, general use, and outdoor activities. It features four blades made of high carbon stainless steel, including a clip point blade for precision tasks, a sheepsfoot blade to minimize accidental piercing, a wharncliffe blade for general cutting or carving, and a pen blade for general use. The sawcut handle with brass bolsters offers a secure and ergonomic grip. This pocket knife has a convenient size with quick and easy access provided by the nail pulls.

What We Like
Four different blades for a variety of tasks
Durable high carbon stainless steel construction
Secure and ergonomic sawcut handle with brass bolsters
#TOP 7

Zxcan Pocket Knife

DA104
Type-2
Zxcan Pocket Knife Cover
Zxcan Pocket Knife, Folding Knife 5CR13 Carbon Steel Stainless Blade, EDC Knife with Liner Lock, Pocket clip, Tactical Knife for Camping Indoor and Outdoor Activities Men Gift

Zxcan Folding Knife is a versatile pocket knife designed for both indoor and outdoor activities. It features a secure liner lock system that holds the blade firmly in place, ensuring safety during use. The thumb stud allows for quick and easy opening, while the pocket clip makes it lightweight and convenient to carry. The ergonomic handle is made of steel and rosewood, providing stability and a comfortable grip. The unique Cleaver-style blade allows for easy cutting, making it suitable for both larger cuts and fine work. With its gift package, Zxcan Folding Knife also makes for a perfect gift for any occasion.

What We Like
Secure liner lock
Quick and easy opening
Lightweight and convenient
#TOP 8

CASE XX Pocket Knife Yellow Synthetic Trapper Cv Item #161

Case
00161
Yellow Synthetic
3.3"
CASE XX Pocket Knife Yellow Synthetic Trapper Cv Item #161 Cover
Case XX WR Pocket Knife Yellow Synthetic Trapper High Carbon Steel Blades Item #161 - (3254 CS) - Length Closed: 4 1/8 Inches

This CASE XX Pocket Knife Yellow Synthetic Trapper Cv Item #161 features chrome vanadium steel clip and spey blades, with a length of 4 1/8 inches when closed. It is an ideal pocket knife for everyday use, whether for household projects, outdoor activities, or hunting. The knife is made in the USA and comes with a limited lifetime warranty from the manufacturer.

What We Like
Compact and easy to carry around
High-quality chrome vanadium steel blades
Suitable for various purposes including household and outdoor activities
#TOP 9

NedFoss DOLPHIN Pocket Knife

DOLPHIN
Black
8.3inch
NedFoss DOLPHIN Pocket Knife Cover
NedFoss DOLPHIN Pocket Knife, 3.5" D2 Steel EDC Knife Folding Knife with Black PVD Blade, Lightweight Carbon Fiber Insert G10 Handle, Deep Carry Pocketclip

The NedFoss DOLPHIN Knife is designed for everyday convenience and performance. Its premium D2 steel blade offers exceptional sharpness and durability, ensuring you can tackle various daily tasks with ease. The lightweight carbon fiber handle, complemented by a stylish blue G10 base, makes it comfortable to carry without adding bulk. With its one-handed flipper opening mechanism, you can quickly access the blade when needed, whether you're in a tight spot or just need to cut something quickly. This versatile knife is perfect for both routine use and emergencies, making it a reliable companion wherever you go.

What We Like
Durable D2 steel blade
Lightweight and portable
Quick one-handed opening
Versatile for various tasks
#TOP 10

Case Cutlery Trapper Knife

Case
CA73930
Case Cutlery Trapper Knife Cover
Case Cutlery CA73930: Trapper American Workman

The Case Trapper Knife is a practical and stylish tool for everyday use. With a closed length of 4.13 inches, it fits comfortably in your pocket, making it easy to carry. The knife features durable carbon steel blades with a stonewash finish, which not only enhances their strength but also gives them a unique look. The red smooth synthetic handle provides a secure grip, ensuring you can use the knife confidently. Additionally, the nickel silver bolsters and inlay shield add an attractive touch, making this knife a great choice for both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

What We Like
Compact size
Durable carbon steel blades
Secure grip handle
Attractive design
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is carbon steel good for knives?

Yes, carbon steel is a popular choice for knives, especially high-end kitchen knives. It is wear-resistant, meaning it stays sharp for longer periods. Its versatility and durability make it suitable for various applications, including knife making.

2. What are the cons of carbon steel knives?

While carbon steel knives have their advantages, they do come with a few drawbacks. Over time, the blade may turn black, but this doesn't affect its cutting ability or impact the taste or color of food. Carbon steel is also prone to rust and requires regular cleaning with stainless steel pads to maintain its appearance.

3. Do I need to oil carbon steel knives?

To prevent rust, it is recommended to keep carbon steel knives clean and dry after use. Applying a light coating of oil periodically can help protect the blade. This is especially important if you use the knife daily.

4. Do carbon steel knives need to be sharpened?

Like any fine tool, carbon steel knives need regular maintenance and care. Sharpening the blade regularly is necessary to keep it in optimal condition and protect it from corrosion.

5. How often should you oil carbon steel knives?

To prevent rust formation, it is advised to apply oil or wax to the blade and fittings every two to three weeks of use. Additionally, the knife should be cleaned and dried after each use.

6. What are the problems with carbon steel?

One of the main concerns with carbon steel is its tendency to rust when exposed to moisture. This is due to its high iron content. However, proper maintenance, such as regular cleaning and oiling, can help mitigate this issue.

Editor's Notes

During our carbon steel pocket knives research, we found 24 carbon steel pocket knives products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 24,365 customer reviews through our big data system to write the carbon steel pocket knives list. We found that most customers choose carbon steel pocket knives with an average price of $36.74.

The carbon steel pocket knives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of carbon steel pocket knives, including Case, Smith & Wesson, Kershaw, Old Timer, Zxcan. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 169 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.