Best Lockback Tactical Knives of 2025

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

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Lockback tactical knives are essential tools for outdoor enthusiasts and tactical professionals alike. These knives are designed with a locking mechanism that secures the blade in place during use, ensuring safety and precision. With a variety of blade styles and materials, lockback tactical knives offer versatility and durability for any cutting task. Whether for hunting, camping, or self-defense, these knives are built to withstand the toughest conditions and provide reliable performance. With their sleek design and rugged construction, lockback tactical knives are a must-have for any serious adventurer or tactical operator.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Maxam Heavy-Duty Lockback Knife Cover #TOP 1
Maxam Heavy-Duty Lockback Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Snake Eye Tactical Collector Folding Pocket Knife Cover #TOP 2
Snake Eye Tactical Collector Folding Pocket 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 8 Lockback Tactical Knives

#TOP 1

Maxam Heavy-Duty Lockback Knife

SKMX102
grey
Maxam Heavy-Duty Lockback Knife Cover
Maxam Extra Heavy-Duty Lockback Knife w/Leymar Handle - Fixed Blade Pocket Knife for Men, Hunting, Tactical & Survival, Includes Sheath

The Maxam Lockback Knife is designed for comfort and efficiency, making it perfect for extended hunting trips. Its ergonomic Leymar handle fits snugly in your hand, ensuring a secure grip as you tackle various tasks. The high-quality steel blade offers exceptional cutting and piercing capabilities, making it versatile for different scenarios. Plus, with the included sheath, you can easily store and transport the knife, keeping it safe when not in use. Whether for survival, tactical applications, or everyday tasks, this knife is built to meet your needs.

What We Like
Comfortable ergonomic handle
Strong steel blade
Includes convenient sheath
Versatile for multiple uses
#TOP 2

Snake Eye Tactical Collector Folding Pocket Knife

Small
Small
Snake Eye Tactical Collector Folding Pocket Knife Cover
Snake Eye Tactical Lock Back Beautifully Designed Handle Collector Folding Pocket Knife (Small)

Introducing Snake Eye Tactical Pocket Knife - a beautifully designed collector folding knife with a 3-inch stainless steel blade and a 4-inch wood handle. With a total length of 7 inches when opened, this knife is perfect for everyday carry and tactical use. The lock-back mechanism ensures safety during use, while the collector design adds a touch of elegance to your collection. The stainless steel blade provides durability and sharpness for all your cutting needs. The wood handle allows for a comfortable grip, making it easy to use for extended periods. Whether you need it for camping, hunting, or as part of your collection, Snake Eye Tactical Pocket Knife is a reliable and stylish choice.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel blade
Lock-back mechanism for safety
Collector design adds elegance

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

Blue Steel Tactical Folding Camping Knife

Blue Steel
Black
Blue Steel Tactical Folding Camping Knife Cover
Blue Steel Tactical Folding Camping Knife, Lock-Back Pocket Knife with Clip, Boondocks Saints Prayer Pocket Knife with Black Finished Color - Blue

The Blue Steel Tactical Folding Camping Knife is a reliable and stylish tool that every outdoor enthusiast will appreciate. It features a razor-sharp stainless steel blade with a broad thumb for deployment, a black finished handle, and a belt/pocket clip for easy access. The knife also includes a rope cutter, can opener, seat belt cutter, and glass breaker. With its safety lock design, it ensures that you use it safely and effortlessly. It makes a perfect gift for Father's Day, Valentine's Day, or Christmas.

What We Like
Reliable and stylish tool
Razor-sharp stainless steel blade
Belt/pocket clip for easy access
Safety lock design for safe use
Includes additional tools such as a rope cutter, can opener, seat belt cutter, and glass breaker
#TOP 5

Goshawk Assisted Opening Pocket Knife

Goshawk
6901234599527
Grey
Goshawk Assisted Opening Pocket Knife Cover
Assisted Opening EDC Pocket Knife for Men, D2 Stainless Steel Blade, Lock-back Tactical Knife with Mikata Handle, Button Folding Knife for Camping (Grey)

The Goshawk Tactical Knife is designed for convenience and versatility. Its D2 stainless steel blade offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance, making it perfect for outdoor activities like camping and hiking. You’ll appreciate the ergonomic Mikata handle, which provides a comfortable grip for easy handling. With a one-handed opening button, you can quickly access the blade whenever you need it, whether you're in a pinch or just enjoying some outdoor fun. This knife is a reliable companion for various tasks, making it a great choice for anyone who enjoys outdoor adventures.

What We Like
Durable D2 stainless steel blade
Ergonomic Mikata handle
One-handed quick opening
Versatile for many activities
#TOP 6

Schrade IMPCOM6CP Knife Set

IMPCOM6CP
Multi
One Size
Schrade IMPCOM6CP Knife Set Cover
Imperial Schrade IMPCOM6CP Imperial Knife Combo Pack (3 Piece),Multi

The Schrade Knife Combo Pack is a versatile set that includes three lockback folding knives, labeled Sp1, Sp2, and Sp3. Each knife features a compact blade length of 2.30 inches, making them ideal for various tasks, from outdoor adventures to everyday use. With a handle length of 3.30 inches, these knives offer a comfortable grip for extended periods. Their compact size allows for easy storage and portability, making them perfect for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. The convenient packaging dimensions ensure that you can take them anywhere without hassle.

What We Like
Three versatile knives
Compact and portable
Comfortable grip
Ideal for outdoor use
#TOP 7

Generic Elite Lockback Folding Knife

Generic
green
Generic Elite Lockback Folding Knife Cover
Lockback Folding Knife,Button Lock Assisted Opening Pocket Knives for Men,3'' 440C Clip Point Steel Blade and Green G10 Handle,EDC Tactical Knife for Camping

The Generic Lockback Knife is a versatile EDC tactical knife designed for camping. The 440C clip point steel blade offers excellent edge retention, corrosion resistance, and easy sharpening, making it ideal for various cutting tasks. The G10 handle provides a solid grip and comfortable feel for easy handling. With the button lock mechanism, you can access and deploy the blade single-handedly with safety. The lockback feature ensures reliable strength and safety during use, suitable for both men and women. Conveniently carry the knife with the included PU sheath.

What We Like
440C Steel Blade
G10 Handle Grip
Button Lock Mechanism
#TOP 8

Frost Cutlery Tactical Lockback Knife

FTA007OC-BRK
Orange
Frost Cutlery Tactical Lockback Knife Cover
Frost Cutlery FTA007OC-BRK Tactical Lockback Orange Camo

The Frost Cutlery Tactical Knife is a versatile tool crafted in China, designed for outdoor enthusiasts and everyday users alike. Its tactical design ensures durability, making it a reliable companion for various tasks, whether you're camping, hiking, or simply need a dependable knife at home. The striking orange camo pattern not only adds a unique aesthetic but also enhances visibility in outdoor settings, reducing the chances of misplacement. With its lockback mechanism, you can feel secure knowing that the blade will remain firmly in place during use, providing you with confidence and safety while tackling any cutting job.

What We Like
Durable construction
Unique orange camo design
Secure lockback mechanism
Versatile for outdoor use
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are lockback knives good?

The benefits of a lockback include reliable strength, safety, and ambidextrous operation. The unlock “button” is out of the way of your grip when using the knife, meaning you're unlikely to accidentally disengage the lock and have it close on you.

2. What knives are issued to Navy SEALs?

Navy SEALs (USA) The Ontario MK 3 Navy Knife is standard issue for the United States Navy SEALs. With a 6-inch stainless steel blade, it's a perfectly compact piece of equipment for this elite and efficient group.

3. What folding knife do the 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.

4. What is a lockback knife?

Backlock (or: Lockback or Back-Lock) is the mechanism in certain lockable pocketknives. The handle of a Lockback knife contains a mechanism that allows the blade to be locked in place and then unlocked again. The blade of a Lockback knife also has a small notch on the end of the tang.

Editor's Notes

During our lockback tactical knives research, we found 24 lockback tactical knives products and shortlisted 8 quality products. We collected and analyzed 14,403 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lockback tactical knives list. We found that most customers choose lockback tactical knives with an average price of $15.49.

The lockback tactical knives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lockback tactical knives, including Maxam, Snake Eye Tactical, SOG, Blue Steel, Goshawk. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 497 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

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.