7 Best Spearfishing Knives of 2026

The JBL Shiv-X punches above its weight with a no-nonsense design built for freedivers who demand reliability in high-pressure moments. Crafted from 416 alloy stainless steel, the 4.5-inch double-edge blade holds a razor-sharp edge and resists corrosion like a seasoned veteran, while the honeycomb-patterned rubber handle delivers a grippy, secure hold even when wet—eliminating the panic of a slipping knife during a struggle. Its low-profile sheath and belt slots make it a seamless extension of your gear, solving the common issue of awkward placement during deep dives.

In real-world testing, the Shiv-X shines in close-quarters scenarios—whether slicing through tangled kelp, cutting fishing line, or dispatching a catch with precision. The blade’s straight and serrated edges offer versatility across tasks, and at just under 9 inches overall, it’s compact enough to avoid snagging but powerful enough for tough jobs. While it lacks the length for heavy-duty chumming or prying, it’s not meant for that—this is a focused tool for agility and speed, ideal for spearos who move fast and light.

Compared to bulkier options like the SORD or Riffe EDC, the Shiv-X prioritizes minimalism and ease of carry without sacrificing core functionality. It doesn’t have a tactical G10 grip or full tang construction, but for freedivers who value simplicity and proven performance, it’s a rock-solid companion. When stacked against the budget punada model, the JBL delivers superior materials and fit-and-finish, offering a more refined experience for those willing to invest in trusted craftsmanship.

The Scuba Choice Titanium Talon is a stealthy game-changer for divers who want maximum utility in a sleek, featherlight package. At 8.5 inches long, it boasts a full tang stainless steel blade with a low-volume point-tip, delivering pinpoint accuracy when cutting lines or handling delicate tasks—perfect for avoiding damage to gear or marine life. The modern black finish isn’t just stylish; it reduces glare and blends into the environment, a subtle but crucial edge when stalking wary fish.

During testing, the Talon proved exceptionally agile underwater, slicing through monofilament and netting with minimal effort thanks to its razor-honed precision tip. The ergonomic handle locks into the palm like a glove, even with thick gloves on, and the included straps make thigh mounting a breeze. While the blade isn’t designed for prying or chiseling, it excels in its intended role: clean, controlled cuts in tight situations. Its corrosion-resistant build shrugs off saltwater abuse, making it a dependable daily driver.

Against the Cressi Skorpion, the Talon offers greater length and a sharper point, giving it an edge in line-clearing emergencies. It’s not as rugged as the Riffe EDC, but for divers who prioritize lightweight maneuverability over brute strength, it’s a standout. For those comparing value versus performance, the Scuba Choice Talon delivers pro-level precision at a fraction of the cost of premium models, making it a smart pick for recreational and semi-pro spearos.

The Cressi Skorpion is a line-cutter’s dream, engineered with Italian precision and a dual-edge blade that makes short work of tangled rigging and stubborn monofilament. Its 11 cm (4.3 in) tempered AISI 304 steel blade features a smooth edge and full-length serrations, plus a built-in wire cutter, turning it into a multi-role underwater multitool. The thumb tab for one-handed deployment and locking sheath mean you can draw it fast in emergencies—solving the life-or-death delay that plagues lesser knives.

In practical use, the Skorpion dominates in entanglement scenarios, where its serrated edge bites through rope and the pointed tip slips into tight spaces. At 9.1 inches overall, it’s balanced—long enough for leverage, short enough to stay nimble. The two standard straps allow secure leg mounting, and the Taiwan-made build holds up well to salt exposure. However, it’s not ideal for dispatching large fish—the tip is sharp but not reinforced for heavy thrusting.

Pitted against the Scuba Choice Talon, the Skorpion offers better line-cutting versatility thanks to its integrated wire cutter and serrated edge, though it’s slightly shorter. Compared to the budget punada knife, it’s far more refined, with superior steel and a one-hand release mechanism that inspires confidence. For technical divers and safety-focused spearos, the Cressi Skorpion is a precision instrument that excels where it matters most—cutting you free when every second counts.

The Riffe EDC 4.5-inch is a beast in disguise—a compact knife with full-sized ambition, built for hunters who refuse to compromise. Its 420 heat-treated stainless steel blade is Teflon-coated for extreme corrosion resistance, and it’s proven to cut through stainless steel cable, a claim few dive knives can back up. This isn’t just a backup tool—it’s a primary weapon for dispatching fish or slicing through underwater obstacles with unflinching reliability.

Real-world dives show the Riffe EDC handling abuse like a workhorse: it resists pitting, retains its edge after repeated use, and the nylon locking sheath with lanyard ensures it stays put until needed. The 4.5-inch blade offers a sweet spot between control and reach, and the rubber leg straps keep it secure during aggressive finning. While it’s heavier than featherweight options, that mass translates to durability and cutting power—a trade-off serious spearos will appreciate.

Next to the JBL Shiv-X, the Riffe EDC feels more rugged and overbuilt, better suited for bluewater hunting where you’re dealing with large, powerful fish. It lacks the sleek profile of the Scuba Choice Talon but outmuscles it in raw performance. For those seeking a premium, no-excuses knife that justifies its cost through bulletproof construction and field-proven strength, the Riffe EDC stands as a benchmark in high-end reliability.

The punada Dive Knife is a surprising powerhouse at a rock-bottom price, delivering essential features without the premium markup. Don’t let the $10 tag fool you—its 440C stainless steel blade is razor-sharp out of the box, with a straight edge and serrated section that handle line, kelp, and light cutting with ease. The one-button quick-release sheath is a standout, allowing fast, reliable access—a feature often missing in budget knives—making it a legit safety tool, not just a gimmick.

In testing, the punada proved perfectly capable for casual snorkelers and entry-level spearos, slicing through rope and plastic with confidence. The dual sheaths (plastic and nylon) and two pairs of adjustable straps offer flexibility in mounting, and the 8.65-inch size strikes a good balance between portability and utility. It won’t cut through cable like the Riffe, and the plastic sheath feels flimsy, but for weekend warriors, it’s more than sufficient.

Stacked against the Cressi Skorpion or SORD, it’s clearly less refined—but for budget-conscious divers, it’s a no-brainer entry point. Even next to the $25 SPEARFISHING WORLD model, it offers better ergonomics and a more secure release system. If you need a dependable, no-frills knife that won’t break the bank, the punada delivers unmatched value for first-time buyers and backup roles.

The SPEARFISHING WORLD Squeeze Lock is a value-packed performer that nails the essentials: safety, accessibility, and sharpness—all in a no-nonsense package. Its 9cm (3.5 in) 304 stainless steel blade features a sharp edge and serrated section, ideal for dispatching fish and cutting chum lines, while the squeeze-lock sheath delivers a rare feature at this price: audible, one-handed retention and release. That click when it locks? Pure confidence under pressure.

In real dives, the knife proves more than capable for mid-tier use, slicing through kelp and netting with ease. The black protective coating resists rust, and the two rubber straps with quick-lock buckles ensure it stays put on your thigh. It’s compact—great for minimizing drag—but the shorter blade means you’ll need to get closer for tough cuts. It’s not built for prying or heavy-duty work, but it’s nevertheless reliable for its intended role.

Compared to the punada, it’s more specialized and better finished, with a premium feel despite the low cost. Against the JBL Shiv-X, it’s shorter but offers a superior locking mechanism. For divers who want a trustworthy, affordable knife with a true one-hand system, the SPEARFISHING WORLD model hits the sweet spot between price and performance, making it a smart upgrade from budget basics without overspending.

The SORD 4-inch Dive Knife is the undisputed king of all-around performance, blending tactical ruggedness with underwater finesse in a way no other model matches. Its high-carbon steel blade is full tang and corrosion-resistant, delivering military-grade durability, while the G10 handle offers an aggressive, glove-friendly grip that won’t slip—even in bloody or sandy conditions. This is a knife built for life-or-death moments, not just convenience.

In deep dives and heavy currents, the SORD proves unshakably reliable: the serrated edge tears through rope, the pointed tip enables precise dispatching, and the streamlined profile cuts through water without drag. The tactical design means it’s equally at home in emergency scenarios or bluewater hunts. While it’s the most expensive here, every dollar shows in the fit, finish, and confidence it inspires.

Versus the Riffe EDC, the SORD matches its toughness but adds better ergonomics and a more modern build. Against the Cressi Skorpion, it’s more durable and versatile, though slightly heavier. For serious spearos, tech divers, and professionals who need a do-it-all blade that never quits, the SORD stands alone as the best overall choice—offering unmatched quality, safety, and precision in one flawless package.