Best Pocket Tactical Knives of 2025

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

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Pocket tactical knives are a versatile and essential tool for anyone who loves the outdoors or needs a reliable everyday carry. Designed for easy and discreet carry, these knives are compact and lightweight, making them perfect for backpacking, camping, hunting, and other outdoor activities. They are also ideal for everyday use, such as opening boxes, cutting ropes, or slicing fruits. Made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel, titanium, and carbon fiber, pocket tactical knives are durable and long-lasting. With their sharp blades and ergonomic handles, these knives are not only functional but also stylish and sleek.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Kershaw Appa Folding Tactical Pocket Knife Cover #TOP 1
Kershaw Appa Folding Tactical Pocket Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Snake Eye Tactical Everyday Carry Karambit Style Folding Pocket Knife Cover #TOP 2
Snake Eye Tactical Everyday Carry Karambit Style Folding Pocket Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.7
SOG Escape Tactical Folding Knife Cover #TOP 3
SOG Escape Tactical Folding Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Pocket Tactical Knives

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

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

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

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 5

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

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
#TOP 7

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

MTech USA Spring Assisted Knife MT-A882GN

MT-A882GN
GREEN
2.8"
MTech USA Spring Assisted Knife MT-A882GN Cover
MTech USA – Spring Assisted Folding Knife – Green Fine Edge Stainless Steel Blade with Black Nylon Fiber Handle, Bottle Opener, Pocket Clip, Tactical, EDC, Self Defense- MT-A882GN

The MTech USA Folding Knife is designed for quick and easy use, featuring a spring-assisted mechanism that allows for fast one-handed opening. Once deployed, the blade locks securely in place, providing safety and confidence while you work. The turquoise stainless steel blade offers a sharp, straight edge, perfect for various everyday tasks. Additionally, the black nylon fiber handle includes a convenient bottle opener and a lanyard hole, making it versatile for outdoor adventures or daily carry. With a pocket clip included, you can carry it securely and access it effortlessly whenever needed.

What We Like
Quick one-handed deployment
Secure locking mechanism
Versatile bottle opener
Easy carry pocket clip
#TOP 9

Gerber Gear Remix Folding Pocket Knife

30-000433
Black
Gerber Gear Remix Folding Pocket Knife Cover
Gerber Gear 30-000433N Remix Pocket Knife, Serrated Edge, Black

The Gerber Gear Remix Folding Pocket Knife is a versatile and durable tactical knife that features a circular ring in the handle for added stability during use. The stainless steel G-10 handle provides a secure grip in all conditions, while the slim and lightweight design allows for easy portability. The tanto blade is corrosion-resistant, making it perfect for outdoor adventures and everyday use. Additionally, the knife is tactically inspired and has a tip-up pocket carry for convenience.

What We Like
Stable circular ring in the handle
Durable stainless steel G-10 handle
Lightweight and slim design for portability
Corrosion-resistant tanto blade
Tactically inspired with tip-up pocket carry

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
Buying Guide Image

How to Select Pocket Tactical Knives: The Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

When it comes to pocket knives, there are a plethora of options in the market. However, not all of them are suitable for tactical purposes. A tactical knife should be sturdy, durable and reliable, with the ability to perform various tasks seamlessly. Choosing the right pocket tactical knife can be a daunting task, but with the right guidance, you can make an informed decision.

Blade Material

The first thing to consider when choosing a pocket tactical knife is the blade material. The most common materials for tactical knives are stainless steel and high carbon steel. Stainless steel blades are corrosion-resistant, easy to maintain, and retain their sharpness for longer periods. On the other hand, high carbon steel blades are tougher, hold a sharper edge, but require more maintenance to prevent rust.

Blade Design

The blade's design is also essential when choosing a tactical knife. The most common blade designs are drop point, tanto, and spear point. Drop point blades are versatile and suitable for a wide range of tasks. Tanto blades are ideal for piercing and slicing, while spear point blades are perfect for thrusting and slicing.

Blade Size

The blade size is also a critical factor to consider when choosing a tactical knife. The ideal blade size varies depending on your intended use. If you plan to use the knife for everyday carry, a blade with a length of 2.5 to 3.5 inches should suffice. However, if you intend to use the knife for more demanding tasks, a blade with a length of 3.5 to 4.5 inches would be more appropriate.

Handle Material

The handle material is another essential factor to consider when selecting a pocket tactical knife. The most common handle materials are G-10, Micarta, and titanium. G-10 is a lightweight, durable material that provides excellent grip. Micarta is a composite material that is comfortable to hold and provides a secure grip. Titanium is a lightweight, durable material that is resistant to corrosion and wear.

Locking Mechanism

The locking mechanism is a crucial safety feature that prevents the blade from accidentally closing while in use. The most common locking mechanisms are liner locks, frame locks, and back locks. Liner locks are the most common and are easy to operate with one hand. Frame locks are stronger and more durable than liner locks, while back locks are the most secure and reliable.

Conclusion

Choosing the right pocket tactical knife requires careful consideration of several factors, including blade material, blade design, blade size, handle material, and locking mechanism. By taking the time to consider each of these factors, you can select a knife that meets your needs and provides reliable performance for years to come. Remember to choose a reputable brand that provides quality products to ensure accuracy and reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What pocket knives do Navy SEALs use?

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.

2. What is the best tactical knife you can buy?

Best Tactical Knives: Summary. Boker Kalashnikov Auto.Cold Steel Recon 1.ZT 0301.Hogue X-5.CRKT M16-KS.Benchmade AFO II.Kershaw Emerson Launch 5.Gerber 06 Auto.

3. What is a tactical pocket knife?

Designed for hard and/or quick use. Aesthetics invoke military purposes. Spyderco founder Sal Glesser once said, a tactical knife is any knife you have with you when you need a knife. Some say custom knifemaker Bob Terzuola made the first tactical folding knife, while others say Ernest Emerson did.

Editor's Notes

During our pocket tactical knives research, we found 24 pocket tactical knives products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 364,184 customer reviews through our big data system to write the pocket tactical knives list. We found that most customers choose pocket tactical knives with an average price of $24.53.

The pocket tactical knives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of pocket tactical knives, including Kershaw, Snake Eye Tactical, SOG, Smith & Wesson, Voltstorm. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 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.