Best Putty Knives of 2025

Howard Chester Avatar
Howard Chester
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Putty knives are a versatile tool used for a variety of tasks, from spreading putty and spackling to scraping paint and removing wallpaper. They are typically made of metal or plastic and come in a range of sizes and shapes, including straight-edged, angled, and rounded. The blade of a putty knife is thin and flexible, allowing for precision and control when working with fine materials or tight spaces. Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, a putty knife is an essential tool to have in your toolbox.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Harrier Soft Grip Handle Putty Scraper Knife Cover #TOP 1
Harrier Soft Grip Handle Putty Scraper Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.9
WORKPRO 4-Piece Putty Knife Set Cover #TOP 2
WORKPRO 4-Piece Putty Knife Set
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Red Devil 4711 Putty Knife Cover #TOP 3
Red Devil 4711 Putty Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Putty Knives

#TOP 1

Harrier Soft Grip Handle Putty Scraper Knife

Harrier Soft Grip Handle Putty Scraper Knife Cover
Harrier Soft Grip Handle Putty Scraper Knife, Flexible Blade, 1.5-inch Wide, 4-Pack

Harrier Hardware's Soft Grip Handle Putty Scraper Knife is a great value for a 4-pack of flexible blades that measure 1.5 inches wide. The molded plastic handles have rubber grip points for comfortable use, and the flexible blades help you apply just the right pressure for a smooth, even, professional look. Customers praise the sturdy construction and flexibility of the blades, as well as the affordable price and durable materials.

What We Like
Sturdy and strong construction
Comfortable ergonomic handle
Sharp and flexible blade
Good value for money
Durable over time
What We Don't Like
Wear down in corners
Sharp blade near handle
#TOP 2

WORKPRO 4-Piece Putty Knife Set

W004902A
WORKPRO 4-Piece Putty Knife Set Cover
WORKPRO 4-Piece Putty Knife Set, Stainless Steel Made - Perfect for Drywall Spackle, Taping, Scraping Paint, 1.5", 3", 4", 6"

The WORKPRO 4-Piece Putty Knife Set is a great choice for any DIYer or professional. Constructed with stainless steel, these putty knives are highly durable and rust-resistant. The ergonomic handle is made of PP&TPR material for a comfortable and soft grip. This set includes 4 different width sizes, 1.5", 3", 4", and 6", to meet most of your essential needs in working. Customers have praised the quality and durability of these putty knives, making them an excellent choice for any project.

What We Like
Sturdy build quality
Rust-resistant materials
Comfortable handles
Versatile tool for projects
Multiple sizes available
What We Don't Like
Some prefer lighter plastic options
#TOP 3

Red Devil 4711 Putty Knife

4711
Multicolor
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Red Devil 4711 Putty Knife Cover
Red Devil 4711 Putty Knife, 1.5 Inch, Multi

The Red Devil Putty Knife is designed for all your putty application needs. Its lightweight and flexible plastic construction makes it easy to handle, allowing you to maneuver into tight spots effortlessly. This tool is durable and built to withstand various tasks, ensuring you can rely on it for multiple projects. Plus, the solvent-resistant plastic means it can handle different materials without deteriorating. With its disposable nature, you can use it for quick jobs without worrying about cleanup, making it a convenient choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

What We Like
Durable and long-lasting
Safe for delicate surfaces
Easy for children to use
Effective for various cleaning tasks
Sturdy and flexible design
What We Don't Like
Somewhat pricey
Should cost less

Bates- Putty Knife Set, 6 Pack

Bates- Putty Knife Set, 6 Pack Cover
Bates- Putty Knife, 6 Pack, Plastic Paint Scraper, Plastic Scraper, Plastic Putty Knife, Putty Knife Set, Plastic Spreader, Spackle Tool, Plastic Putty Knife Scraper, Scraper Tool, Putty Scraper

The Bates- Putty Knife Set, 6 Pack is a great alternative to metal knife options. The set includes six different sizes ranging from 1.5" to 6" inches, making it easy to find the perfect size for your needs. The plastic scrapers are flexible and solvent resistant, making them perfect for spackling, patching, and painting. The Bates Putty Knifes set is a great addition to any DIY toolkit.

What We Like
Versatile sizes for various tasks
Sturdy yet flexible plastic material
Comfortable handles for easy use
Cost-effective compared to metal knives
No rusting for long-term use
What We Don't Like
Not as durable for heavy-duty tasks
Some edges may be imperfect
#TOP 5

4 Pack Putty Knife Scraper

HU-XI-185
4 Pack Putty Knife Scraper Cover
4 Pack Putty Knife Scraper, 2" 3" 4" 5" Putty Knife Set, Stainless Steel Putty Knife Scraper, Wallpaper Scraper Paint Scraper Tool for Spreading Drywall Spackle & Mud, Taping, Scraping Paint

This 4 Pack Putty Knife Scraper is made of high-quality stainless steel material with a mirror polishing finish. It is corrosion-resistant and comes with a double-color plastic handle for comfortable use. The set includes 4 different sizes (2", 3", 4", 5") to meet all daily work needs. It is suitable for putty, wallpaper, applique, backing, repair, paint, plaster, and other processing tools.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Comfortable grip
Sharp scraping surface
Variety of sizes
Great value
What We Don't Like
Feels somewhat cheap
Easy to break
#TOP 6

Amazon Basics 2" Flex Nylon Handle Putty Knife

Amazon Basics
X2F-AZ
Black, Silver
Amazon Basics 2" Flex Nylon Handle Putty Knife Cover
Amazon Basics 2" Flex Nylon Handle Putty Knife

The Amazon Basics 2" Flex Nylon Handle Putty Knife is a classic-style handle that provides a sturdy hold and a professional look and feel. The blade is made of taper-ground, mirror-polished carbon steel and is highly flexible, perfect for small and intricate filling jobs. The handle is made of 55% carbon steel and 45% nylon, and is reinforced with two heavy-duty rivets for added support. It is backed by an Amazon Basics 1-year limited warranty.

What We Like
Great for removing prints
Sturdy and durable
Good for crafts and spackling
Sharp and flexible blade
Affordable quality
What We Don't Like
Flimsy at the end
Not as flexible as desired
#TOP 7

Warner 1-1/2" Carbon Steel Flex Putty Knife

10320
Multicolor
1-1/2"
Warner 1-1/2" Carbon Steel Flex Putty Knife Cover
Warner 1-1/2" Carbon Steel Flex Putty Knife, Painter's Series, 10320

The Warner 1-1/2" Carbon Steel Flex Putty Knife is part of the Painter's Series and is made to last by a skilled team of hard-working men and women. It fits well in the hand and has the right amount of flexibility, making it great for multiple uses. It is very stiff and sharp, and is essential for detail minded drywallers. It is made with solid carbon steel and has a hollowed plastic handle held in place by rivets. Customers have found it to be a great tool for a variety of tasks, though some have noted that the blade is angled, not flat as pictured.

What We Like
Durable carbon steel blade
Comfortable ergonomic handle
Great flexibility and versatility
Inexpensive and good value
Easy to clean with proper care
What We Don't Like
Not super flexible
Minor rust if not dried
#TOP 8

Rerdeim 5Pcs Putty Knife Set

Stainless steel
Rerdeim 5Pcs Putty Knife Set Cover
Rerdeim 5Pcs Putty Knife, Set, 1" 2" 3" 4" 5" Scraper, Spackle Knife, Paint Scraper, Scraper Tool, No Rusting, Perfect For Repairing Drywall, Removing Wallpaper, Mud, Plaster Scraping

The Rerdeim 5Pcs Putty Knife Set is a great choice for any DIYer. This set includes five different sizes of putty knives, each made of high-quality stainless steel that won't rust or corrode. The handles are a combination of soft rubber and plastic for a comfortable grip, and the blades are sharp and precise. This set is perfect for repairing drywall, removing wallpaper, decals, mud, and plaster scraping. Customers have praised the quality and value of this set.

What We Like
Affordable pricing
Good for home use
Sharp edges for efficiency
Variety of sizes
Easy to clean
What We Don't Like
Thin metal may bend
Packaging could be improved
#TOP 9

Red Devil 4824 1-1/2" Flex Putty Knife

4824
Black
1.5"
Red Devil 4824 1-1/2" Flex Putty Knife Cover
Red Devil 4824 1-1/2" Flex Putty Knife , Black

The Red Devil 4824 1-1/2" Flex Putty Knife is a great tool for a variety of tasks. It features a high carbon steel blade that is rust-resistant and fully extends through the sturdy solvent-resistant handle. The unique breakaway tab allows for pegboard hanging. Customers love the flexibility of the blade and its ability to get into tight spaces. It is great for applying wood putty, scraping gaskets, and paint. However, some customers have noted that the handle is sharp and cheap.

What We Like
Well-made and durable
Sharp blade for easy use
Comfortable grip and leverage
Versatile for various tasks
Good value for the price
What We Don't Like
Metal feels thinner than expected
Handle lacks striking pad
#TOP 10

Beyotool Putty Knife Set

Beyotool-putty
2,3,4,5in
Beyotool Putty Knife Set Cover
Putty Knife, 4Pcs Spackle Knife Set (2, 3, 4, 5 in), Stainless Steel Paint Scraper, Taping Knife Tool for Repairing Drywall, Removing Wallpaper, Applying Putty, Plaster, Cement, Adhesive

The Beyotool Putty Knife Set is a great choice for home improvement projects. This set includes four stainless steel blades with rubber handles for a comfortable grip. The blades are rust-resistant and come in four different sizes, making them perfect for applying putty, plaster, cement, adhesives, and more. Customers have praised the high-quality materials and beveled edges, making this set a great value for the price.

What We Like
Great price
Sturdy and durable
Sharp blades
Rust resistant
Good for various projects
What We Don't Like
Not sharp enough for wallpaper
Buying Guide Image

How to Select Putty Knives: The Comprehensive Guide

Introduction to Putty Knives

Putty knives, also known as scraper knives, are handy tools that can be used for a variety of tasks, such as applying and smoothing putty, removing old Sturm und Drang or scraping away stubborn wallpaper. They are typically made of metal or plastic, and come in a range of sizes and shapes to suit different applications. In this article, we will discuss the factors to consider when choosing the right putty knife for your needs.

Blade Shape and Size

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a putty knife is the shape and size of the blade. Putty knives typically have either a straight or curved blade, with each type having its own advantages and disadvantages. Straight blades are best suited for tasks that require precision, such as applying putty to small cracks or corners. Curved blades, on the other hand, are better for smoothing putty over large surfaces, as they can more easily follow the contours of the surface.

In terms of size, putty knives are typically available in widths ranging from 1 inch to 6 inches. For most general purpose tasks, a blade width of 3 inches is a good choice. However, for more precise tasks, a smaller blade may be more suitable, whereas for covering larger surfaces, a wider blade will be more efficient.

Blade Material

Putty knives are typically made of either metal or plastic. Metal blades are more durable and can be used for heavy-duty scraping tasks, such as removing old paint or wallpaper. However, they can also scratch and damage delicate surfaces if not used carefully. Plastic blades, on the other hand, are more flexible and less likely to cause damage, but are not as strong as metal blades and may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks.

Handle Design

The handle of the putty knife is another important factor to consider, as it determines the comfort and control of the tool. Putty knives with ergonomic handles are more comfortable to grip and use for extended periods of time, and can also help to reduce hand fatigue. Some putty knives also have textured or non-slip handles for improved grip, which can be useful for tasks that require a lot of force.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right putty knife involves considering the blade shape and size, blade material, and handle design. By considering these factors, you can select a putty knife that is well-suited for your specific tasks and needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a putty knife used for?

Putty knives are versatile tools used to apply and spread materials. They come in different widths for various purposes, such as filling small nail holes or applying drywall compound. Narrow blades are suitable for small-scale tasks, while wider blades are used for larger surfaces.

2. What is the difference between putty knife and taping knife?

Putty knives are smaller, stiffer, and designed for heavy scraping. On the other hand, taping knives are wider, more flexible, and better suited for spreading, feathering, and delicate scraping work. Taping knives are commonly used in drywall taping and related tasks.

3. Who uses a putty knife?

Putty knives are essential tools for drywallers, but they are also versatile and can be used by anyone. They are commonly used to apply filler materials like drywall compound and spackle to create a tight seal. Putty knives are a valuable addition to any toolbox.

4. Is a plastic or metal putty knife better?

Metal putty knife blades, particularly those made of carbon steel or stainless steel, are generally better than plastic blades. Plastic blades are disposable and not as durable for continued use. Carbon steel blades are more durable but require proper maintenance to prevent rusting. Stainless steel blades are the premium option, offering durability without the risk of rust.

Editor's Notes

During our putty knives research, we found 24 putty knives products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 83,351 customer reviews through our big data system to write the putty knives list. We found that most customers choose putty knives with an average price of $6.67.

The putty knives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of putty knives, including Harrier Hardware, WORKPRO, Red Devil, Bates Choice, Romeda. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,527 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Howard Chester Avatar

Howard Chester is an architect from New York who holds a master's degree in architectural design, his passions for interior design and home improvement contribute to his extensive knowledge of all things furniture and home goods. Howard Chester Specializes in various architectural and interior design projects. He often publishes articles related to decoration on key websites and interior design magazines.

Putty Knives Comparison Table

#TOP1
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#TOP3
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#TOP5
#TOP6
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#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Harrier Hardware WORKPRO Red Devil Bates Choice Romeda Amazon Basics Warner Manufacturing Rerdeim Red Devil Beyotool
Blade Material Spring Steel Stainless Steel Plastic Plastic Carbon Steel Carbon Steel Carbon Steel Stainless Steel High Carbon Steel Stainless Steel
Material Steel - Plastic Plastic 4 Pack Carbon Steel Carbon Steel Stainless Steel, Plastic, Metal Blend, Carbon Steel Stainless Steel blade + Rubber handle
Handle Material Rubber PP, TPR Plastic Plastic Plastic Nylon - Rubber Wood Rubber
Unit Count 4.0 Count - 1.0 Count - - - 1.0 Count 1.0 Count 1.0 Count -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
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