Best Folding Tactical Knives of 2025

Paul Tilton Avatar
Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 9, 2025

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Folding tactical knives are versatile, compact and easy to carry, making them a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, hunters, and military personnel. These knives feature a folding mechanism that allows the blade to be safely tucked away when not in use, making them convenient and safe to carry around. Typically made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel, titanium or carbon fiber, folding tactical knives offer excellent durability, sharpness and precision, making them ideal for a variety of tasks such as cutting, slicing, and piercing. With their rugged design and superior functionality, folding tactical knives are a must-have for anyone who values safety, reliability, and performance in a knife.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Smith & Wesson SWA24S 7.1in Folding Knife Cover #TOP 1
Smith & Wesson SWA24S 7.1in Folding Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Smith & Wesson M&P Folding Knife Cover #TOP 2
Smith & Wesson M&P Folding Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.8
SOG Escape Tactical Folding Knife Cover #TOP 3
SOG Escape Tactical Folding Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Folding Tactical Knives

Smith & Wesson SWA24S 7.1in Folding Knife

SWA24S
Black
3.1"
Smith & Wesson SWA24S 7.1in Folding Knife Cover
Smith & Wesson Accessories Extreme Ops SWA24S 7.1in S.S. Folding Knife with 3.1in Serrated Clip Point Blade and Aluminum Handle for Outdoor, Tactical, Survival and EDC

The Smith & Wesson SWA24S 7.1in Folding Knife is a reliable and dependable EDC knife. It features a 7Cr17Mov Black Oxide High Carbon Stainless Steel blade and an aluminum handle, making it lightweight and durable. It has a convenient pocket clip, finger flipper, and ambidextrous thumb knobs for easy access. The knife also features jimping and serrations for added security. Customers have praised its sharp blade, sturdy build, and great value for the price.

What We Like
High-quality
Sharp blade
Sturdy build

Smith & Wesson M&P Folding Knife

SWMP13BS
Multi
3.5"
Smith & Wesson M&P Folding Knife Cover
Smith & Wesson M&P SWMP13BS 8.2in High Carbon S.S. Folding Knife with 3.5in Serrated Clip Point Blade and Aluminum Handle for Tactical, Survival and EDC

The Smith & Wesson M&P SWMP13BS Folding Knife is a reliable tool for tactical, survival, and everyday carry use. Its 3.5-inch serrated clip point blade is made of black oxide high carbon stainless steel, while the handle is made of durable aluminum. The knife also features a liner lock, finger guard, and lanyard hole for added security and convenience. With its ambidextrous thumb knobs and finger flipper, this folding knife is easy to access and use. It weighs 4.9 ounces and has an overall length of 8.2 inches.

What We Like
Durable black oxide high carbon stainless steel blade
Secure liner lock and finger guard
Convenient pocket clip and lanyard hole
Ambidextrous thumb knobs and finger flipper for easy access
Covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty

SOG Escape Tactical Folding Knife

SOG
FF25-CP
Black
3.4"
SOG Escape Tactical Folding Knife Cover
SOG Escape Tactical Folding Knife- 3.4 Inch Serrated Edge Blade Emergency Pocket Knife with Glass Breaker, Wire Stripper and Line Cutter Blades-Black (FF25-CP)

The SOG Escape is a quick open tactical knife that serves well as a rescue knife for SWAT team, paramedics, and firefighters. It features a cord-cutting groove for cutting cords, lines and seatbelts, a glass breaker, wire stripper, and extra line cutter blade under the pocket knife handle. The 3.4 inches long black stainless steel knife features a partially serrated clip point blade and a lockback mechanism secures the blade while deployed. The handle is made of hard-anodized 6061-T6 aluminum, which is strong and durable to withstand any conditions.

What We Like
Good value for the price
Durable and long-lasting
Versatile with multiple functionalities
#TOP 4

Snake Eye Tactical Everyday Carry Karambit Style Folding Pocket Knife

Snake Eye Tactical Everyday Carry Karambit Style Folding Pocket Knife Cover
Snake Eye Tactical Everyday Carry Spring Assist Style Folding Pocket Knife EDC (Black)

The Snake Eye Tactical Everyday Carry Karambit Style Folding Pocket Knife is a 9-inch overall length knife with a 3.85-inch stainless steel haw bill sharp blade and an aluminum handle. It features a foldable, locking blade, and includes a belt clip for easy concealment. It is suitable for hunting, bushcrafting, skinning, fishing, camping, and hiking. Customers have praised its sharpness, comfort, and design.

What We Like
Long and big
Comfortable grip
Affordable price
Well-made

Smith & Wesson SWMP4LS Tactical Folding Knife

SWMP4LS
Black
3.6"
Smith & Wesson SWMP4LS Tactical Folding Knife Cover
Smith & Wesson SWMP4LS 8.6in S.S. Assisted Folding Knife with 3.6in Serrated Clip Point Blade and Aluminum Handle for Outdoor Tactical Survival and EDC , Black

The Smith & Wesson SWMP4LS tactical folding knife is a reliable and dependable tool for outdoor tactical survival and EDC. It features a durable 4034 black oxide high carbon stainless steel blade, a black aluminum handle with rubber inlay, and a convenient pocket clip. It also has a liner lock and safety lock for added security, and a glass breaker and seatbelt cutter for emergency situations. Customers praise its toughness, safety, and usefulness, making it an ideal choice for everyday carry.

What We Like
Durable 4034 black oxide high carbon stainless steel blade
Convenient pocket clip and flipper/finger actuator
Liner lock and safety lock for added security
Glass breaker and seatbelt cutter for emergency situations
Ideal for everyday carry

Cold Steel Recon 1 Tactical Folding Knife

CS-27BTH
Tanto Half Serrated
Cold Steel Recon 1 Tactical Folding Knife Cover
Cold Steel Recon 1 Series Tactical Folding Knife with Tri-Ad Lock and Pocket Clip - Made with Premium CPM-S35VN Steel, Tanto Half Serrated

The Cold Steel Recon 1 Tactical Folding Knife is a popular choice for Military and Law Enforcement Personnel, Fire and Rescue crews and civilians, trusted to perform in even the toughest jobs and conditions. It features exceptional CPM-S35VN steel, is highly corrosion resistant, and has a durable G-10 handle material that provides a secure and comfortable grip. The knife also comes with custom knife-maker Andrew Demko's famous TriAd lock that is proven over time to be unsurpassed in strength, shock resistance and durability.

What We Like
Durable and reliable for the toughest jobs and conditions
Exceptional CPM-S35VN steel with a razor sharp edge
Secure and comfortable grip with G-10 handle material
Famous TriAd lock for unsurpassed strength, shock resistance, and durability

GOOD WORKER Spring Assisted Karambit Knife

Х-42
1 Black
GOOD WORKER Spring Assisted Karambit Knife Cover
Spring Assisted Karambit Knife - Tactical Karambit Folding Knife - Pocket & Folding Knife - Military Sharp Tiger Claw Knives - Best Combat for Hunting Camping EDC for Men - Birthday Mens Gifts X-42

The GOOD WORKER Tactical Karambit Knife is a compact, functional, and stylish pocket knife that is perfect for various outdoor activities. Its razor-sharp 440C stainless steel blade provides high durability and cutting performance, making it suitable for camping, hiking, hunting, and self-defense. The handle ring design allows for convenient forward and reverse grip, ensuring ease of use in any situation. With its sturdy construction and precision craftsmanship, this versatile knife is your ultimate tool for everyday carry or outdoor adventures. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to carry in a purse or backpack, making it a great gift idea for any man in your life.

What We Like
Razor sharp cutting performance
Compact and stylish design
Convenient handle ring for grip

Kershaw Appa Folding Tactical Pocket Knife

1402BLK
Straight Blade
2.8"
Kershaw Appa Folding Tactical Pocket Knife Cover
Kershaw Appa Folding Tactical Pocket Knife, SpeedSafe Opening, 2.75 inch Black Blade and Handle, Small, Lightweight Every Day Carry

The Kershaw Appa is a lightweight and nimble folding tactical pocket knife that won't disappoint from a performance standpoint, but also won't break the bank. It features a black 2.75 inch reverse tanto blade with a razor sharp cutting edge, several cut outs in the handle to keep it light but strong, and SpeedSafe Assisted Opening for easy, quick, one handed opening with the flipper. The blade is held in place when opened with a liner lock. The knife measures 6.5 inches when opened and 3.6 inches closed, and weighs just under 2 ounces.

What We Like
Lightweight and well balanced
Razor sharp and easy to sharpen steel
SpeedSafe Assisted Opening for easy one handed opening
Reversible pocketclip and lanyard hole for several carrying options
Black reverse tanto blade offers a tactical look at a value price point
#TOP 9

Smith & Wesson SWFR2S Folding Knife

SWFR2S
Multi
3.3"
Smith & Wesson SWFR2S Folding Knife Cover
Smith & Wesson SWFR2S 8in High Carbon S.S. Folding Knife with 3.3in Tanto Point Serrated Blade and Aluminum Handle for Outdoor, Tactical, Survival and EDC

The Smith & Wesson SWFR2S Folding Knife is a reliable and durable option for outdoor, tactical, survival, and everyday carry use. With an overall length of 8 inches and a blade length of 3.3 inches, this knife is made of 7Cr17MoV High Carbon Black Oxide Stainless Steel and features a black, textured and grooved aluminum handle. The knife also includes a glass breaker and seatbelt cutter, making it a great tool to have in emergency situations. The convenient pocket clip and ambidextrous thumb knobs provide quick and easy access, while the liner lock ensures the blade stays secure. This product is covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty from Smith & Wesson.

What We Like
Durable and reliable blade made of 7Cr17MoV High Carbon Black Oxide Stainless Steel
Convenient pocket clip and ambidextrous thumb knobs for quick and easy access
Includes glass breaker and seatbelt cutter for emergency situations
#TOP 10

SOG Terminus XR G10 Folding Knife

SOG
SOG-TM1022-BX
Olive Drab
2.9"
SOG Terminus XR G10 Folding Knife Cover
SOG Hunting High Carbon Steel Ambidextrous Carry EDC 2.95' Sharp Blade Terminus XR OD Green Folding Knife

The SOG Terminus XR G10 Folding Knife is a daily carry knife with a rugged design and versatile high-carbon tool steel blade. The knife comes with different opening methods, including a thumb stud and flipper tab, making it easier to open and close. The knife's G10 handle is both rugged and easy to hold, making it a trusted companion on any hike or workday. The XR locking mechanism is snappy and adjusts over the lifespan of the knife.

What We Like
Rugged design
Versatile high-carbon tool steel blade
Easy to open and close with different methods
Buying Guide Image

Best Folding Tactical Knives You Are Looking For

Introduction

Folding tactical knives are versatile tools that can be used for a variety of tasks, from cutting rope to opening boxes. Choosing the right one for you can be a daunting task, with so many options on the market. In this article, we'll walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting a folding tactical knife.

Blade Material

The blade is the most important component of any knife, and the material it's made from will determine its durability and performance. Some common blade materials for folding tactical knives include stainless steel, carbon steel, and titanium.

Stainless steel is a popular choice due to its corrosion resistance and affordability. However, it may not hold an edge as well as other materials and may require more frequent sharpening.

Carbon steel is known for its hardness and ability to hold an edge, but it can be prone to rust and requires more maintenance than stainless steel.

Titanium is a lightweight and durable material that is often used in high-end folding knives. It is resistant to corrosion and wear, but it can be more expensive than other materials.

Blade Design

The blade design is another important factor to consider when choosing a folding tactical knife. Some common blade designs include drop point, tanto, and clip point.

The drop point blade is a popular choice for its versatility and ease of use. It features a curved edge that is ideal for slicing and cutting tasks.

The tanto blade is a more specialized design that is popular among tactical users. It features a sharp point for piercing and a straight edge for slicing.

The clip point blade is similar to the drop point blade but features a concave cutout near the tip for added control and precision.

Handle Material

The handle of a folding tactical knife should be comfortable to hold and provide a secure grip. Some common handle materials include G-10, carbon fiber, and titanium.

G-10 is a lightweight and durable material that provides a good grip, even when wet. It is also affordable and easy to find.

Carbon fiber is a high-end material that is lightweight and strong. It provides a comfortable grip and is resistant to wear and tear.

Titanium is another high-end material that is lightweight and durable. It provides a comfortable grip and is resistant to corrosion and wear.

Locking Mechanism

The locking mechanism is an important safety feature that prevents the blade from accidentally closing on your fingers. Some common locking mechanisms include liner locks, frame locks, and back locks.

Liner locks are a popular choice for their simplicity and reliability. They work by using a metal liner to lock the blade in place.

Frame locks are similar to liner locks but use the frame of the knife to lock the blade in place. They are often more secure than liner locks.

Back locks are a classic design that uses a metal bar to lock the blade in place. They are simple and reliable but may require two hands to close.

Conclusion

Choosing the right folding tactical knife is all about finding the perfect balance between blade material, blade design, handle material, and locking mechanism. Consider your needs and preferences carefully when selecting a knife, and don't be afraid to invest in a high-quality model that will last for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are folding knives good for self defense?

Folding knives can be a suitable option for self-defense purposes. They are popular due to their compact size and ease of concealment. These knives can be carried easily in a pocket or purse. However, it is important to note that folding knives may not be as sturdy as fixed blade knives.

2. Is it okay to carry a pocket knife for self defense?

Carrying a pocket knife for self-defense purposes should be done in accordance with the laws in your area. Before carrying any knife, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the applicable laws to avoid any legal issues. In many places, a pocket knife with a short blade length, typically around 2 or 3 inches, is considered legal for self-defense and everyday carry.

Editor's Notes

During our folding tactical knives research, we found 24 folding tactical knives products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 305,586 customer reviews through our big data system to write the folding tactical knives list. We found that most customers choose folding tactical knives with an average price of $19.53.

The folding tactical knives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of folding tactical knives, including Smith & Wesson, SOG, Snake Eye Tactical, Cold Steel, GOOD WORKER. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 555 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Paul Tilton Avatar

Paul Tilton is a fitness enthusiast. He doesn't like to work in front of a computer screen so he quit his job and runs a gym in Washington. He spent a lot of time on the road and has been a contributing writer for a well-known travel guide website. He is now happy to share his travel experience and professional knowledge of travel gear and fitness here.