Pocket knives have been around for centuries and the general concept hasn’t changed much: a handle with a sharp blade attached to a hinge that allows you to fold or deploy the blade at will. In comparison to full-sized knives, pocket knives are far more compact and lightweight to carry around with you. This is the premier reason why a great pocket knife is essential to a well thought-out Everyday Carry (EDC) kit.

But although the concept hasn’t changed from the fundamentals, it has certainly evolved. There are now several types of blade, blade material, serration style, and there are now Swiss Army knives that also double as multi tools. So if you are new to the whole pocket knife game, it can be pretty overwhelming and confusing.

Don’t worry, this best folding knife buying guide will guide you on the right path!

Blade Number

Single-Bladed

The most popular form of pocket knife is a single-bladed (mono-bladed) pocket knife. Because it only has one large blade, it is pretty simple in design and tends to be quite compact. To keep the blade solidly in place when you deploy it and resist the physical force of demanding knife work, they are equipped with a solid locking mechanism.

A lot of single-bladed high quality pocket knives also have a spring-loaded deployment mechanism, which will open the blade in the blink of an eye.

The disadvantage is that while they are good for general purpose, they lack flexibility for more specialized works like whittling.



Multi-Bladed

Multi-bladed knives give you two to four different types of blade to pick from to do your work. So if for one moment you need a blade to skin a furry game and the next second you need a blade to cut small twigs with, these best rated pocket knives will allow you to do that.

The one thing to consider is that although they are flexible, since the locking mechanism must hold in place several blades at once, they are not as strong as single-bladed best quality pocket knifes. If you expect your knife to be able to withstand demanding work, maybe reconsider getting this type.

Plain Edge vs. Serration

Plain Edge

A best rated folding knife with a plain edge is superior at performing push cuts. The clean, razor-sharp edge offers you greater accuracy and control over your cutting work. Additionally, unlike serration, you can easily resharpen a plain edge great pocket knife by yourself.

Though top rated pocket knives with plain edges are great at push cuts, they don’t do so well with pull cuts. For tasks like cutting paracords or jobs that require a lot of sawing, back-and-forth motion, serration will suit your need much better.

Fully Serrated

Fully serrated knives are less common among the top folding knives on the market, but they will serve you well if you often have to cut through tough materials like wood. Like we mentioned before, a serrated knife is better at pull cuts and sawing motion.

In return, they don’t offer a lot of control and accuracy. Difficult to sharpen, too. Unless you have very specific tools and skill, you will have to send your knife back to the manufacturer for them to sharpen, which can be a huge waste of time.

Combo Edge

Combo edge knives (or partially serrated knives) represent the best of both worlds. Half of the blade has a plain edge and the other half has serration. When you need accuracy and control, use the plain edge section of the blade and vice versa, if you’re going to be doing some sawing or pull cuts, use the part with serration.

Maintenance is still going to be a trouble, though, because you still need to send the whole knife back to the manufacturer to resharpen the serration. You should also keep in mind where the serration is located on your knife since they won’t always be useful.

But overall, combo edge knives are often good quality pocket knives that can offer you the most value for your money.

Blade Length

There are small, medium, to large sizes.

Small Blades

Small blades typically have a blade length shorter than or around 2.75 inches. Small blades are easier for you to carry legal-wise because even places with the most stringent laws on blade length typically have an upper limit of 2.75 inches. Carrying one of these and you’re assured to not have any problem with the law.

Small blades are pretty weak, however, and they won’t be able to handle strenuous tasks. Because they are so small, small blades are usually slipjoint knives. They don’t have a locking mechanism and will usually slip out of place when subjected to extreme force such as violent cutting actions.

The most you can ask out of these knives are light tasks around the house like opening letters and cardboard boxes. So while a small knife may be the coolest folding knife you can have at your disposal, they aren’t very functional.

Medium Blades

Many best pocket knives in the world fall into this category. Medium-bladed knives have a blade length between 2.75 to 4 inches. In this range, these great pocket knives still remain fairly small and compact but they are sizable enough to be able to do greater, heavier tasks. Medium-bladed knives have a robust locking mechanism in place to prevent the blade from slipping, as well.

The only problem you will have to deal with if you decide on a medium-bladed knife is that some places ban it. So make sure to check in with your local laws and regulations surrounding blade length before you put in the order.



Large Blades

Large blades are longer than 4 inches in length and are more suitable than smaller knives for self-defence purposes. Their size makes it difficult to carry or hide them, however. They will usually come equipped with a holster. There’s no way you’re going to be able to carry a large blade in your pocket.

Because of all of the extra steel, large blades are also much heavier, as well.

Obviously, if some laws already set the limit for legal carry to be at a medium-blade knife, large-blade knives are out of the question in many locations. Check your local regulations to make sure that you are allowed to carry these.

You Might Also Enjoy: Blades of Steel: The Best Pocket Knives for Durability and Performance

Conclusion

There are many more things to take into consideration when you are out shopping for a new pocket knife. Regardless, these three things are the most important yet. When you have your answer to these three things: how many blades do you need in your pocket knife; plain edge, serration, or both; and how long your blade ought to be … you’ll be able to make sensible purchase for Top rated pocket knife to fit your needs.

If you feel confident enough to start ordering, we have a couple of world best pocket knives review for you to go through on our site.

Could you be a tad more specific about the versions you tested and on what kind of system (e.g. Plasma version and distribution, themes in use, etc.)?

The Shieldon pocket knife manufacturers with Leather Sheath is a classic and reliable option with a 3.5-inch blade made from high-quality 9Cr18MoV stainless steel, known for its durability and sharpness. The partially serrated blade makes it versatile for a variety of tasks, while the beautiful rosewood handle provides a comfortable and secure grip. The knife also features a liner lock mechanism to keep the blade securely in place during use. With its elegant design and solid construction, the Shieldon Folding Knife with Leather Sheath is a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and stylish pocket knife.