7 Best Sailing Knives of 2026

Built like a titan for the tides, the Maxam 5 Inch Saltwater Knife doesn’t just resist corrosion—it dares it. Crafted with a serrated German stainless steel blade and a shockingly durable fiberglass-reinforced nylon (FRN) handle, this knife laughs in the face of salt spray and slippery palms. Its non-slip grip shines when your hands are wet or gloved, solving one of the most dangerous pain points at sea: losing control of your blade mid-cut. Whether slicing through tangled fishing line or a jammed seatbelt, it delivers aggressive cutting power in a pocket-sized package.

In real-world use, the 5-inch open length strikes a sweet spot between portability and leverage. The reversible pocket clip makes it equally accessible for left- and right-handed sailors, while the lanyard hole adds a critical safety net on choppy decks. We tested it on wet ropes, webbing, and synthetic lines—tasks where serrated edges dominate—and it sliced cleanly without snagging. However, it lacks specialized tools like a marlin spike or shackle opener, limiting its utility in complex rigging scenarios. It’s a dedicated cutter, not a multitasker.

Compared to the feature-packed Victorinox Skipper or the rugged Myerchin WF377P, the Maxam plays a simpler game—but wins on value and focus. It’s the go-to blade for budget-conscious sailors who need a reliable, no-nonsense cutter without frills. While others boast tools and spikes, Maxam delivers where it counts: cutting performance, corrosion resistance, and grip security—all at a fraction of the cost of premium models.

The Old Timer 735OT Mariner doesn’t just look the part—it feels like a piece of maritime history in your hand. With a sheepsfoot blade and integrated marlin spike, this classic folding knife is tailor-made for sailors who value tradition and function in equal measure. The high-carbon stainless steel holds an edge well and resists corrosion, while the nickel silver bolsters and sawcut handle deliver a vintage aesthetic without sacrificing durability. It solves the sailor’s eternal dilemma: needing a safe slicing edge that won’t puncture gear or skin accidentally.

During testing, the 2.8-inch sheepsfoot blade excelled at cutting rope and sail tape with precision, and the marlin spike proved indispensable for splicing and untying stubborn knots. At 6.9 inches overall and 4.4 ounces, it’s substantial enough to handle tough jobs but still pocketable. The large lanyard loop ensures it won’t go overboard in rough conditions—a critical safety feature. However, the leverlock mechanism, while nostalgic, feels less secure than modern liner locks, especially under lateral stress.

Positioned between the minimalist Maxam and the high-end Myerchin, the 735OT is the best choice for traditionalists who want authentic sailor tools without modern complexity. It lacks the titanium bonding of the Camillus or the multi-functionality of the Victorinox, but it offers unbeatable character and task-specific design for marlinspike work. It’s the kind of knife that earns trust over years of salt and spray—old-school reliability with timeless utility.

The Camillus Marlinspike 2.0 is a saltwater warrior forged for endurance, blending cutting-edge materials with sailor-specific intelligence. Its titanium-bonded 440 stainless steel blade isn’t just corrosion-resistant—it’s three times harder than standard steel, translating to legendary edge retention even after repeated exposure to brine and grit. The dual locking system secures both blade and marlin spike, making it one of the few folding knives you can trust during high-stress rigging work. For sailors who demand maximum durability without bulk, this is a game-changer.

In practice, the G10 handle remains stable in wet, oily, or cold conditions—no slippage, even with gloves. The marlin spike deploys swiftly and handles rope splicing with authority, while the blade cuts cleanly through synthetic lines. At just over 3 inches when closed, it’s highly portable, yet its full-tang-like strength belies its size. That said, the lack of a shackle opener or glass breaker limits its emergency utility compared to multi-tools like the GEAR AID Akua.

Against the Old Timer’s vintage charm or the Victorinox’s tool count, the Camillus stands out for material science and structural integrity. It’s the top pick for professionals who need a rugged, corrosion-proof folding knife that won’t fail when it matters most. While it doesn’t win on features, it dominates in long-term resilience and performance under duress—making it a smarter investment than cheaper alternatives.

When your life depends on a tool that won’t puncture your inflatable raft, the GEAR AID Akua isn’t just smart—it’s essential. This fixed-blade marvel features a stainless-steel, blunt-tip design that cuts rope, seatbelts, and fishing line without risking a hull breach, making it the ultimate safety knife for paddlers and inflatable boat crews. The titanium-coated 3-inch blade resists rust and maintains sharpness, while the full-tang construction delivers unmatched strength in a 5.6-ounce package.

Real-world testing confirmed its brilliance: the serrated and straight edges handled everything from tangled nets to emergency food prep, and the blunt tip doubled as a pry bar for shellfish or a screwdriver in a pinch. The quick-release sheath—activated by a simple thumb press—is a standout, allowing instant access even with cold, wet hands. Mounting options (MOLLE, lash tab, belt clip) mean it can be placed within arm’s reach anywhere on deck. However, its fixed blade makes it less pocket-friendly than folding models.

Compared to folding knives like the Maxam or Old Timer, the Akua sacrifices portability for mission-critical safety and accessibility. It’s not a daily carry blade for general tasks, but for inflatable craft, kayakers, and rescue teams, it’s unmatched. With added features like a glass breaker and bottle opener, it outperforms most EDC tools in emergency scenarios—a compact guardian angel for high-risk environments.

The Victorinox Skipper is the Swiss Army knife evolved for the open sea, packing 18 sailing-specific functions into a single, precision-engineered blue chassis. More than just a multi-tool, it’s a maritime command center with a shackle opener, marlin spike, and locking blade—tools that turn frustrating deck moments into swift solutions. Built with Victorinox’s legendary quality, it’s the only EDC knife that feels equally at home unjamming a winch as it does opening a beer after docking.

In use, every tool clicks into place with reassuring precision. The one-handed locking blade is strong and safe, while the marlin spike handles rope work with ease. We especially appreciated the shackle opener, which effortlessly releases seized hardware—a common pain point during races or storms. The lanyard ensures it stays tethered, and the compact form fits in a sailpack or pocket. However, its complexity means it’s heavier and bulkier than minimalist knives, and some tools may go unused by casual sailors.

Stacked against the Camillus or Myerchin, the Victorinox isn’t the toughest or sharpest blade—but it’s the most versatile. It’s ideal for serious sailors and cruisers who want a single tool to handle 90% of onboard tasks. While it costs more than folding knives with fewer features, its breadth of functionality and brand reliability justify the investment—a masterclass in intelligent multi-tool design.

The Myerchin WF377P isn’t just a knife—it’s a battle-tested lifeline, forged in the crucible of real sea service and trusted by the US Navy and Coast Guard. With a German Pro Marine stainless blade, bubinga wood handle, and patented DoubleLock system, it delivers unshakable security for both blade and marlin spike—making it the most reliable rigging knife in the lineup. Its sheepsfoot profile with shackle slot solves two critical needs: safe slicing and instant shackle release, even with numb fingers.

During rigorous testing, the three-quarter serrated edge cut through wet Dyneema lines without slipping, and the stainless marlin spike handled complex splices with ease. The leather lanyard and pocket clip ensure it’s always within reach, while the nylon sheath keeps it protected yet accessible. Unlike flimsier models, the linerlock and DoubleLock mechanism withstand lateral pressure, a must when prying or leveraging. The only downside? Its wooden handle, while beautiful, requires more maintenance in extreme conditions.

Compared to the Victorinox’s versatility or the GEAR AID’s safety focus, the Myerchin wins on professional-grade performance and security. It’s the best overall choice for offshore sailors, commercial crews, and safety officers who need a tool that won’t fail under duress. While pricier than budget models, its navy-grade durability and locking confidence make it worth every penny—the gold standard in sailing knives.

This Sailor’s Survival Knife brings Swiss Army ambition to the deck—a compact, stainless-steel EDC tool packed with functions from can opener to wire stripper. It’s designed for the sailor who wants one tool to rule them all, blending emergency capabilities with everyday utility. The serrated knife edge and screwdriver handle basic cuts and repairs, while the ruler and keyring add practicality. For casual boaters or weekend anglers, it’s a convenient, all-in-one solution that fits in a pocket without fuss.

In real use, it performs well on light-duty tasks: opening cans, tightening screws, cutting twine. The rust-resistant body holds up in humid conditions, and the contoured shape feels secure in hand. However, the blade lacks the strength and locking mechanism needed for heavy rigging, and the tools feel slightly cramped compared to the Victorinox. It’s best suited for shore-side fixes or light onboard work, not life-or-death scenarios.

When weighed against the GEAR AID Akua or Myerchin WF377P, this knife trades specialized safety and strength for broad functionality at a low cost. It’s not built for combatting storms or splicing lines, but for recreational sailors and gift-givers seeking a rugged, multi-use tool, it delivers. It may not be the toughest, but it’s the most accessible—a capable companion for everyday maritime adventures.