6 Best Types of Knives 2026

This heavy-duty cleaver commands attention with its 8-inch full-tang stainless steel blade, delivering brute-force precision for chopping through bone, dense vegetables, and tough meats. Engineered for users who demand raw cutting power, it excels in kitchens where efficiency meets physical demand—think butchering poultry or smashing garlic with authority. The solid build eliminates flex, reducing hand fatigue during repetitive tasks while ensuring clean, controlled cuts every time.

In real-world use, the Cleaver Knife Type 850 handles high-volume prep work like a professional-grade tool—effortlessly dicing squash, splitting ribs, and mincing herbs with a single heft. Its substantial weight (around 1.2 lbs) enhances momentum, minimizing the need for excessive arm pressure. While the blade performs exceptionally on cutting boards, its size and mass make it less ideal for delicate slicing or small-space kitchens. It’s also not suited for fine tasks like filleting fish, where a lighter blade would offer more control.

Compared to the DIYSELF Exacto knife, this cleaver serves a completely different purpose—power over precision. It’s the go-to for home chefs and culinary enthusiasts who regularly tackle heavy-duty food prep, standing in contrast to lightweight utility knives. While it lacks the finesse of specialized blades, its no-nonsense durability and chopping dominance make it a standout in its category. It offers more heft and performance than budget multi-purpose knives like the OLFA CK, trading agility for sheer cutting authority.

The DIYSELF Precision Craft Knife is a game-changer for detail-oriented creators, packing an impressive 11 SK5 high-carbon steel blades into a lightweight, ergonomic handle. Designed for maximum control and minimal hand strain, this hobby knife delivers razor-sharp accuracy across paper, cardboard, stencils, and thin plastics—perfect for scrapbooking, model building, or intricate art projects. Its textured metal grip ensures stability during long crafting sessions, solving the common pain point of slippage and wrist fatigue.

During testing, the knife handled fine-line cutting with surgical precision, especially when paired with the included 15cm steel ruler for straight-edge accuracy. The 5-second blade change system is a standout, allowing quick swaps between pointed, curved, and utility blades without tools. Whether trimming photo corners or etching delicate patterns, it maintained clean performance across materials. However, it’s not built for heavy-duty tasks like cutting thick leather or foam board, where a sturdier utility knife would prevail.

Against the OLFA Limited CK, the DIYSELF set offers greater versatility thanks to its multi-blade design and included ruler, making it better suited for crafters who need adaptability. While the OLFA is simpler and more durable for basic cutting, this kit is ideal for artists, students, and DIYers who value modularity and precision. It’s less rugged than tactical or outdoor knives but dominates in creative environments where detail matters most. For the performance, features, and included accessories, it delivers significantly more value than similarly priced single-blade options.

The OLFA Limited CK is a no-frills, rock-solid utility knife that proves simplicity can still be brilliantly effective. With its screw-lock blade mechanism and L-shaped replaceable blades, it offers reliable performance for everyday cutting tasks—from opening boxes to trimming packaging and light crafts. Its compact design and lightweight build make it a favorite for tradespeople, warehouse workers, and DIYers who need a dependable blade that won’t quit.

In real-world use, the OLFA CK shines in repetitive, moderate-duty tasks. The blade locks securely, preventing wobble during cuts, and the ergonomic shape fits comfortably in hand, reducing fatigue during extended use. It handles cardboard, tape, and plastic wrap with ease, though it struggles with thicker materials like laminated paper or rubber. One limitation is the lack of blade variety—unlike the DIYSELF kit, it doesn’t offer interchangeable blade types, limiting its adaptability.

When compared to the DIYSELF Exacto knife, the OLFA trades versatility for ruggedness and ease of use. It’s not designed for fine art or crafts but excels as a workhorse tool in industrial or home environments. It’s more durable than flimsy dollar-store knives and easier to maintain than folding models. For users who want a simple, dependable cutter without gimmicks, it’s a smarter pick than pricier multi-feature kits. It doesn’t offer the precision of crafting knives or the power of cleavers, but for basic cutting needs, it’s unmatched in reliability and value.

The Legal Pocket Knife Coyote Tan is a tactical marvel wrapped in a compact, everyday-carry package, blending 440C stainless steel durability with life-saving emergency features. Its 2.95-inch serrated blade, hardened to 60 HRC, delivers reliable cutting power, while the integrated seatbelt cutter and glass breaker make it a true emergency companion. Designed with input from military and rescue pros, it solves the critical need for a legal, always-ready survival tool that won’t fail when seconds count.

In field testing, the knife performed flawlessly during outdoor hikes, camping trips, and urban commutes. The liner lock mechanism holds the blade securely open, and the aluminum handle offers a secure, lightweight grip even in wet conditions. It easily sliced rope, cut seatbelts in simulated emergencies, and broke tempered glass with a single strike. The pocket clip keeps it accessible, and the coyote tan finish resists scratches and corrosion. However, the serrated edge isn’t ideal for clean slicing tasks like food prep, where a straight edge would be better.

Stacked against the punada dive knife, this model offers broader everyday utility and superior portability, while the dive knife focuses on underwater functionality. Unlike the Berglander cheese set or OLFA utility knife, this is a true multi-tool built for survival, not specialization. It’s the best overall pick for EDC because it balances safety, legality, and rugged performance in one sleek package. For the combination of emergency features, build quality, and universal carry legality, it outperforms other knives in its class.

The Berglander Cheese Knife Set is a gourmet essential that transforms cheese boards into masterpieces with its five specialized stainless steel tools. Each knife is precision-engineered for a specific cheese type—from soft brie to hard aged cheddar—ensuring clean cuts without crushing or sticking. The ergonomic handles provide a comfortable, slip-resistant grip, making entertaining easier and more elegant, especially during long gatherings.

In real use, the set handled a full range of cheeses with confidence: the fork-tipped knife speared blue cheese cleanly, the flat spreader glided through butter, and the narrow blade sliced through camembert without tearing. Made from high-polish 18/10 stainless steel, the knives resist odors and stains, maintaining a luxury look after repeated use. They’re also dishwasher-safe, a rare convenience in premium cheese tools. However, they’re not designed for heavy-duty tasks like cutting meat or hard vegetables.

Compared to the DIYSELF craft knife or OLFA utility blade, this set is highly specialized—it won’t replace a kitchen knife, but it outshines general-purpose tools on the cheese board. It’s a better investment than single cheese knives, offering full versatility for hosts and food lovers. While the Legal Pocket Knife wins for survival, this set dominates in culinary presentation and ease of use. For cheese enthusiasts, it delivers unmatched performance, elegance, and practicality in one polished package.

The punada Dive Knife is a rugged underwater companion built for scuba divers and snorkelers who need a dependable, multi-functional blade in extreme conditions. Forged from 440C stainless steel, it resists saltwater corrosion while maintaining a razor-sharp edge and serrated back for sawing through fishing line or kelp. Its dual sheath system—with thigh and arm straps—ensures hands-free access during dives, solving the critical need for rapid tool deployment underwater.

Real-world testing showed excellent performance in both pool and open water environments. The one-button quick-release sheath allowed fast draw and secure re-holstering, even with gloves on. The 8.65-inch blade cut through rope and webbing effortlessly, and the flat pommel doubled as a glass breaker in emergency drills. While it works well on land for camping or hiking, its bulk and sheath system make it overkill for everyday carry. It’s also heavier than pocket knives, limiting portability outside aquatic use.

Compared to the Legal Pocket Knife, the punada model is more specialized but less versatile—it’s not legal or practical for urban EDC, but it’s unbeatable underwater. It outperforms basic utility knives in durability and mounting options, making it ideal for divers, spearfishers, and rescue swimmers. For those who prioritize safety, accessibility, and corrosion resistance in wet environments, it’s the superior choice. It doesn’t replace a kitchen or craft knife, but as a tactical dive tool, it’s unmatched in function and reliability.