Best Folding Blade Tactical Knives of 2025

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

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Folding Blade Tactical Knives are the perfect addition to any outdoor enthusiast's gear collection. These knives are designed to be compact and easy to carry, while still providing the strength and durability needed for tough outdoor tasks. With features such as a locking blade, serrated edge, and ergonomic handle, these knives are ideal for camping, hunting, and survival situations. The folding design also makes them easy to store and transport, ensuring that they are always within reach when needed. Whether you're an experienced outdoorsman or just starting out, Folding Blade Tactical Knives are a must-have tool for any adventure.

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
Steinbrucke Tactical Knife - German Stainless Steel 8Cr13Mov Cover #TOP 2
Steinbrucke Tactical Knife - German Stainless Steel 8Cr13Mov
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 Blade 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
#TOP 2

Steinbrucke Tactical Knife - German Stainless Steel 8Cr13Mov

RF-06082019
Black
Steinbrucke Tactical Knife - German Stainless Steel 8Cr13Mov Cover
Steinbrucke Tactical Knife Pocket Knife Folding Stainless Steel 8Cr13Mov 3.4'' Blade, with Reversible Clip - Good Gift for Hunting Camping Survival Outdoor and Everyday Carry

The Steinbrucke Tactical Knife is a great choice for outdoor activities, camping, and everyday carry. It is made with high performance German Stainless Steel 8Cr13Mov, hardened to 58-59 HRC Hardness, and features a pocket clip for easy and safe daily carry. It is also equipped with a seatbelt cutter and glass breaker for emergency. Customers have praised its sharpness, sturdiness, and slim profile.

What We Like
High performance German Stainless Steel 8Cr13Mov
Pocket clip for easy and safe daily carry
Seatbelt cutter and glass breaker for emergency
Sharpness, sturdiness, and slim profile

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

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

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

Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Folding Knife

SWA25
Black
3.3"
Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Folding Knife Cover
Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops SWA25 7.8in High Carbon S.S. Folding Knife with 3.3in Clip Point Blade and Aluminum Handle for Outdoor, Tactical, Survival and EDC

The Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops SWA25 Folding Knife is a reliable tool for outdoor, tactical, survival, and everyday carry use. With a blade length of 3.3 inches and a weight of 3.2 ounces, this knife is made with 7Cr17MoV Black Oxide High Carbon Stainless Steel and features an aluminum handle for durability. The liner lock ensures a secure grip, while the ambidextrous thumb knobs and pocket clip provide easy access and multiple carrying options. This folding knife also comes with a Limited Lifetime Warranty.

What We Like
Durable 7Cr17MoV Black Oxide High Carbon Stainless Steel blade
Secure liner lock
Convenient pocket clip and ambidextrous thumb knobs
Lanyard hole for multiple carrying options
Covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty
#TOP 7

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

GOOD WORKER Tactical Legal Knife

BLACK
GOOD WORKER Tactical Legal Knife Cover
2.8” Serrated Blade Pocket Knife for Men - Tanto Tactical Folding Knife with Glass Breaker & Seatbelt Cutter - Cool Small Knives for Self Defense EDC Camping Survival Hunting Hiking Military 6620B

GOOD WORKER Tactical Knife is a versatile 5-in-1 tool perfect for everyday carry. The serrated blade ensures razor-sharp cutting, while the strap cutter and glass breaker add functionality for emergencies. With a compact design and durable construction, this tactical knife is ideal for camping, hiking, self-defense, and more. The liner lock feature provides safety, making it legal to carry in all states. Whether you're a traveler, outdoorsman, or military personnel, this tactical knife is a reliable companion for various activities.

What We Like
5-in-1 Versatility
Durable Construction
Compact Design
#TOP 9

Smith & Wesson Border Guard Knife

SWBG2T
Black
0.8"
Smith & Wesson Border Guard Knife Cover
Smith & Wesson Border Guard 10in High Carbon S.S. Folding Knife with 4.4in Tanto Blade and Aluminum Handle for Tactical, Survival and EDC

The Smith & Wesson Knife is a reliable and versatile tool for everyday carry, with an overall length of 10 inches and a 4.4-inch blade. Its durable blade, crafted from high carbon stainless steel, ensures long-lasting performance, making it perfect for tactical and survival situations. The lightweight design, at just 8.8 ounces, allows for easy handling. You will appreciate the quick access provided by the pocket clip and ambidextrous thumb knobs, ensuring that you can use it whenever you need. Plus, the liner lock feature ensures that the blade stays securely in place during use, giving you peace of mind.

What We Like
Durable high carbon stainless steel
Lightweight and easy to carry
Quick access pocket clip
Secure liner lock mechanism
#TOP 10

Smith & Wesson Benji Folding Keychain Knife

1122566
Black/Red
1.8"
Smith & Wesson Benji Folding Keychain Knife Cover
Smith & Wesson Benji 2.5in High Carbon S.S. Folding Keychain Knife with 1.75in Modified Tanto Blade and G10 Handle for Outdoor, Tactical, Survival and EDC,Black

The Smith & Wesson Benji Folding Keychain Knife is a reliable and durable option for everyday carry. With a 1.75 inch modified tanto blade made of 8Cr13MoV High Carbon Stainless Steel and a black G-10 handle, this knife is built to last. The Ultra-Glide technology, dual function money clip/pocket clip, and finger flipper make it easy to access and use. The frame lock ensures that the blade stays securely in place. Plus, it includes a bottle opener and is covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty.

What We Like
Durable 8Cr13MoV High Carbon Stainless Steel blade
Convenient Ultra-Glide technology and dual function clip
Secure frame lock to prevent blade from slipping
Includes bottle opener and covered by Limited Lifetime Warranty
Buying Guide Image

Sorting Out the Folding Blade Tactical Knives That Are Right for You

Introduction

Folding blade tactical knives are an essential tool for outdoor enthusiasts, military personnel, and law enforcement officers. These knives are compact, versatile, and easy to carry, making them an ideal choice for those who need a reliable cutting tool on the go. However, with so many options available on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right folding blade tactical knife for your needs. In this article, we will provide you with some tips on how to select the best folding blade tactical knife.

Blade Material

The blade material is one of the most critical factors to consider when choosing a folding blade tactical knife. The most common blade materials are stainless steel, high carbon steel, and Damascus steel. Stainless steel is the most popular choice as it is durable, resistant to corrosion, and requires low maintenance. High carbon steel, on the other hand, is harder than stainless steel and holds a sharper edge, but it is more susceptible to rust and requires more maintenance. Damascus steel is a premium option that features a beautiful pattern and superior strength, making it an excellent choice for collectors or those who want the best of the best.

Blade Shape

The blade shape is another crucial factor to consider when selecting a folding blade tactical knife. The most common blade shapes are drop point, tanto, and clip point. The drop point blade is the most versatile as it features a curved edge that is ideal for slicing and piercing tasks. The tanto blade, on the other hand, has a straight edge and a reinforced tip, making it an excellent choice for heavy-duty tasks. The clip point blade features a concave curve near the tip, making it ideal for precision cutting tasks.

Blade Size

The blade size is another essential factor to consider when selecting a folding blade tactical knife. The blade size can range from small and compact to large and heavy-duty. The size of the blade you choose will depend on your intended use. If you need a knife for everyday carry, a compact blade size is ideal. However, if you need a knife for heavy-duty tasks, a larger blade size is necessary.

Handle Material

The handle material is another crucial factor to consider when selecting a folding blade tactical knife. The most common handle materials are G-10, Micarta, and titanium. G-10 is a durable and lightweight material that is resistant to moisture and temperature changes. Micarta is a composite material that is similar to G-10 but has a more organic feel. Titanium is a premium material that is lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion, making it an excellent choice for those who want the best of the best.

Locking Mechanism

The locking mechanism is another important factor to consider when selecting a folding blade tactical knife. The most common locking mechanism is the liner lock, which features a spring-loaded bar that holds the blade in place when it is open. Other locking mechanisms include the frame lock, back lock, and axis lock. The locking mechanism you choose will depend on your intended use and personal preference.

Conclusion

Choosing the best folding blade tactical knife can be a daunting task, but with these tips, you can make an informed decision. Remember to consider the blade material, blade shape, blade size, handle material, and locking mechanism when selecting a folding blade tactical knife. By doing so, you can ensure that you get a reliable cutting tool that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What folding knife do Navy SEALs use?

Ontario MK 3 Navy Knife The U.S. Navy Seals commonly deploy this knife. It features a stainless steel blade which is approximately 6 inches in length. The U.S. Navy Seals commonly deploy this knife. It features a stainless steel blade which is approximately 6 inches in length.

2. What folding knife does the military use?

The CQC 6 is the only folding knife on this list. Very rarely are folding knives intended to be fighting knives. However, the CQC 6 was designed by Ernest Emerson at the behest of individual SEALs looking for a fighting folding knife.

3. What is a tactical folding knife?

The tactical folding knives are different, with a single thick blade sometimes featuring aggressive serrations, and grips made to fit the hand rather than look pretty. These knives look scary on purpose, reflecting the huge “tactical” trend that has defined the past decade and continues to grow.

4. Is a folding knife good for self-defense?

You can use a pocket knife for self-defense. While small, these blades are sharp and deadly, and the mere presence of one can be enough to ward off a potential attacker. However, know that pocket knives can cause substantial damage and can therefore lead to legal issues if used in self-defense.

Editor's Notes

During our folding blade tactical knives research, we found 24 folding blade tactical knives products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 316,119 customer reviews through our big data system to write the folding blade tactical knives list. We found that most customers choose folding blade tactical knives with an average price of $18.95.

The folding blade tactical knives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of folding blade tactical knives, including Smith & Wesson, Voltstorm, SOG, Kershaw, 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.