9 Best Knife Making Kits of 2026

The EZSMITH FL006 is a game-changer for beginners diving into the world of folding knives, offering a rare blend of simplicity, quality, and functionality. With its 440C stainless steel blade heat-treated to RC 56–58, this kit delivers real-world durability and edge retention that punches above its price point. The thumb stud opener and framelock mechanism provide a satisfying, secure action—features usually reserved for higher-end builds—making it an ideal first step into precision knife assembly without overwhelming the user.

In real-world testing, the 7.75-inch overall length feels balanced and pocket-friendly, while the 3.375-inch blade handles light EDC tasks like box opening or cord cutting with ease. The nylon washers ensure smooth blade deployment and closure, eliminating the gritty resistance common in budget kits. However, the Cocobolo Dymondwood handle scales, while beautiful, are best left as-is unless you’re experienced with texturing—sanding too much can throw off the alignment. It’s not built for heavy chopping, but that’s not the point: this kit excels as a training ground for fit, finish, and function.

Compared to the more advanced M63 carbon fiber flipper, the FL006 is less flashy but far more approachable for first-timers. It skips complex bearings or flippers in favor of a reliable, no-nonsense framelock design—perfect for learning how pressure points and tolerances affect blade stability. It’s the ideal choice for teenagers, hobbyists, or educators introducing metalworking fundamentals. While it lacks the modern flair of a flipper, it offers better accessibility and lower risk of assembly frustration than most folding kits in the $50+ range.

This Man Crates fixed blade kit redefines what a premium DIY experience should feel like, blending high-end materials with a truly all-in-one build system. At its core is the Shawnee Skinner blade, a proven design known for reliability in outdoor use, paired with classy brass bolsters and genuine maple handle scales that elevate the final product from craft project to functional heirloom. The inclusion of a leather sheath, epoxy, vise, files, sandpaper, and finish means you can go from box to finished knife without buying a single extra tool—rare in this category.

During testing, the full-tang construction proved rock-solid once epoxied and clamped, delivering a knife that felt balanced and rugged in hand—ideal for bushcraft or campfire tasks. The 2-ton epoxy syringe ensured a strong bond between tang and scales, while the included rasp and file set made shaping the handle intuitive, even for first-timers. One limitation: the maple scales aren’t pre-drilled, so precise pin hole alignment requires patience and a drill press for best results. It’s not a quick 30-minute build, but the hands-on craftsmanship it demands is part of the appeal.

When stacked against the Three Way Cut kit, this one trades some instructional polish for superior raw materials and a more authentic forge-to-finish vibe. It’s less about speed and more about immersive craftsmanship, making it perfect for experienced DIYers or dads who live for weekend projects in the garage. While pricier than entry-level kits, it delivers better long-term satisfaction and a more professional end result, especially if you value authentic tool inclusion and premium finish over video guides.

The Man Crates Folding Knife Kit is a bold, ambitious project that brings real knife-making gravitas to the DIY space, centered around Linen Micarta handle scales—a material prized for its durability, grip, and classic tactical look. Unlike simpler framelocks, this kit challenges builders with a manual flipper assembly, requiring precise tuning of washers and pivot tension to achieve that smooth, snap-open action knife enthusiasts love. It includes a portable bench vise, Torx wrenches, files, sandpaper, and an instruction booklet, making it one of the most self-contained folding kits available.

In practice, the flipper mechanism delivers a satisfying, confident open once properly adjusted, though beginners may struggle with over- or under-tightening the pivot—a common hurdle in bearing-based folders. The blade steel isn’t specified, which is a notable omission when compared to kits using 440C or Damascus. Still, the Linen Micarta handles sand beautifully and conform to the hand, offering excellent grip even when wet. The final build feels solid and carry-ready, though it’s best suited for light EDC use rather than hard-duty tasks.

Compared to the EZSMITH M63, this kit offers more rugged materials but less engineering precision out of the box. The M63’s dual bearing system and carbon fiber give it a smoother, more modern action, while this one leans into tactical toughness and hands-on tuning. It’s ideal for intermediate makers who want to learn the nuances of flipper timing and handle contouring, not just follow steps. For the price, it delivers exceptional tool inclusion and a sense of accomplishment, even if the blade steel falls short of premium benchmarks.

The Three Way Cut Kit stands out as the most complete and beginner-optimized system on the market, designed to eliminate barriers between idea and finished knife. It combines a 440C stainless steel blade with beech wood handles, mosaic pins, brass bolsters, and a leather sheath, plus every tool you need: vise, rasp, files, sandpapers, 2-ton epoxy, wood wax, and Torx wrenches. What truly sets it apart is the dual-format guide—video and printed manual—making it the most accessible full-build kit for total novices.

In real-world use, the beech wood scales are easy to shape and accept epoxy well, while the mosaic pins add a custom touch that feels premium without requiring advanced skills. The full tang design results in a knife that’s sturdy enough for camping, kitchen prep, or survival tasks, and the included leather sheath fits snugly. One minor drawback: the epoxy syringe can be messy if not used carefully, and the wood wax application benefits from gloves, which aren’t included. But overall, the build process is forgiving and rewarding, even for first-time makers.

Against the Man Crates fixed blade, this kit offers better instructional support and more decorative flair, though it lacks the brass bolster depth and maple richness of its competitor. It’s the ideal choice for teens, hobbyists, or gift-givers who want a polished result without frustration. While it doesn’t use exotic materials, it delivers the best balance of quality, tools, and guidance, making it the most well-rounded package for someone building their first knife from scratch.

The Black Sierra Japanese Tanto Kit is a love letter to traditional blade design, offering a stonewashed stainless steel blade with full tang construction that captures the spirit of samurai craftsmanship in a modern DIY format. The pakka wood handles are weather-resistant and pre-drilled, making assembly straightforward, while the deluxe leather sheath adds an authentic finishing touch. At just under $25, it’s one of the most affordable entry points into fixed-blade knife making—without feeling cheap.

During testing, the Tanto’s chisel-like tip proved excellent for piercing and controlled cuts, while the full tang provided impressive strength for a kit at this price. The stonewashed finish hides scratches well, and the blade held up to light wood carving and rope cutting. However, epoxy, files, and vise are not included, so builders must source tools separately—a hurdle for true beginners. The pakka wood is dense but unforgiving if sanded unevenly, so patience is key. It’s not a flipper or Damascus showpiece, but it excels as a display or outdoor utility knife.

Compared to the Black Sierra Skinner kit, this one trades versatile blade shape for iconic styling, making it better for collectors or history buffs than hunters. It’s the best choice for fans of Japanese aesthetics who want a simple, symbolic build with cultural resonance. While it lacks the tools of pricier kits, it delivers exceptional value for the price, especially when judged against its craftsmanship and visual impact.

The Hercules Knives Damascus Kit is a masterclass in layered steel artistry, featuring a 33-layer high/low carbon steel + VG10 core that results in a breathtaking, one-of-a-kind Damascus pattern with every build. At 4.3 inches long and 3.7 mm thick, the blade blank is substantial enough for serious use, yet balanced for detailed work. The camel bone scales, fiber spacers, and brass pins elevate the aesthetic, while the pure leather sheath ensures safe carry once complete. This isn’t just a kit—it’s a canvas for personal expression.

In practice, the VG10 core provides exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance, outperforming standard 440C in sharpness and longevity. The camel bone scales require careful sanding and sealing, but reward patience with a luxurious, organic grip. One challenge: the pin holes may need resizing, and the blade blank may require de-rusting if stored long-term. Still, for intermediate to advanced makers, this kit offers unmatched material quality for the price. It’s not for those seeking instant results, but for craftspeople who value artistry over speed.

Against the SOGO Damascus Cleaver, this kit focuses on traditional hunting/utility form rather than novelty. The SOGO offers a unique blade type, but this one wins on steel complexity and finish potential. It’s ideal for collectors, custom knife builders, or gift-givers who want a heirloom-quality project. With superior layering, balance, and materials, it justifies its place as the best Damascus kit for serious enthusiasts.

The SOGO KNIVES Cleaver Kit is a bold departure from traditional knife forms, offering a meat cleaver-style Damascus blank forged from 1095 and 15N20 steels—a combination known for deep, flowing patterns and extreme toughness. With over 200 layers, each blade is a unique piece of functional art, and the 58–60 HRC hardness ensures it stays sharp through heavy use. This is the only kit in the lineup designed for kitchen or butchering tasks, making it a standout for culinary DIYers or blacksmithing fans.

In real-world testing, the cleaver’s weight and broad edge excelled at chopping through bone and dense vegetables, while the Damascus pattern resisted chipping even after repeated impacts. The handle holes vary in size and placement, encouraging customization—though this can frustrate beginners expecting plug-and-play assembly. The included leather sheath is thick and protective, but doesn’t fit snugly until the handle is fully shaped. It’s not a pocket knife, but a workhorse tool for the workshop or kitchen.

Compared to the Hercules Damascus kit, this one trades hunting elegance for raw utility, making it better for functional builds than display. It’s the ideal choice for makers who want a unique, conversation-starting blade with serious cutting power. While less conventional, it offers greater creative freedom and a rarer blade type, standing out as the most distinctive and versatile Damascus kit for adventurous builders.

The Black Sierra Skinner Kit is a no-frills powerhouse that delivers serious blade performance at a budget price, featuring an 8Cr14MoV stainless steel blade with a hammered finish—a steel commonly found in mid-range production knives for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. At $23.99, it’s one of the most affordable full-tang kits, yet it includes two pakka wood handle options, allowing for customization without extra cost. The hammered texture reduces glare and hides wear, making it ideal for outdoor use.

In testing, the Skinner blade excelled at skinning game, cutting rope, and camp tasks, with a tapered edge that glides through hide and flesh without snagging. The pakka wood handles are durable and moisture-resistant, though they require careful sanding to avoid splinters. Like other Black Sierra kits, it doesn’t include tools or epoxy, so builders must supply their own—making it better for those who already have a workshop. It’s not flashy, but it’s reliable, functional, and built for the field.

Against the Japanese Tanto kit, this one wins on versatility and outdoor utility, while the Tanto appeals more to collectors and traditionalists. It’s the best value for hunters, campers, or survivalists who want a tough, customizable blade without overspending. While it lacks premium extras, it maximizes performance per dollar, making it the top pick for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts.

The EZSMITH M63 is a modern marvel of folding knife engineering, built around a dual bearing flipper system that delivers a lightning-fast, buttery-smooth opening action usually found in $150+ custom folders. The carbon fiber handle scales are not only ultra-light and strong, but also give the knife a tactical, high-tech aesthetic that stands out in any collection. With a 2.70-inch 440C blade heat-treated to RC 56–58, it’s built for daily carry and light-duty tasks, making it a serious EDC contender once assembled.

In hands-on use, the dual stainless steel micro washer bearings ensure zero drag and instant deployment, while the T6/T8 Torx hardware allows for precise tension tuning. The 3.70-inch handle fits comfortably in most grips, though smaller hands may find the flipper hard to engage. One caveat: the carbon fiber scales are pre-drilled but sensitive to over-tightening, so care is needed during assembly. It’s not a survival tool, but a precision instrument for urban EDC and technical enthusiasts.

Compared to the Man Crates flipper kit, the M63 offers superior mechanics and a sleeker profile, though it lacks included tools. It’s the best choice for tech-savvy builders who want a modern, high-performance folder with minimal fuss and maximum flair. With better engineering, lighter weight, and smoother action, it outperforms similarly priced kits, making it the undisputed king of modern DIY folding knives.