8 Best Pocket Knives Under $100 (2026 Guide)

This no-nonsense workhorse delivers serious durability and tactical flair without breaking the bank. Built with 440C stainless steel hardened to 60 HRC, the 3.15” blade maintains a razor-sharp edge through tough tasks like cutting rope, opening packages, or prepping gear in the wild. The anodized metal handle feels solid in hand, while the removable pocket clip and built-in glass breaker make it a standout for EDC utility and emergency readiness. It’s the kind of knife that answers the call when you need something reliable, rugged, and ready—perfect for users who want military-grade toughness on a budget.

In real-world use, this folding knife handles everything from camping chores to urban carry with confidence. At 6.24 oz, it’s on the heavier side for a pocket knife, but that weight translates into heft and stability during cutting tasks. The blade deploys smoothly with manual thumb opening, though it lacks assisted mechanisms. It performs well on cardboard, fabric, and light wood, but the pivot can feel slightly stiff out of the box. While the glass breaker adds critical emergency functionality, the overall design leans more toward utility than pocket comfort—don’t expect featherlight carry.

Compared to sleeker models like the Kershaw Appa, the Grand Way 6495 trades finesse for raw capability and ruggedness. It’s not the most pocket-friendly option, but it excels as a survival-ready tool for campers, hikers, or anyone wanting a dependable backup blade. If you’re after maximum function per dollar and don’t mind a bit of bulk, this knife offers unmatched value. It packs more tactical punch than pricier rivals while staying under $15.

Don’t let its tiny footprint fool you—this ultra-affordable pocket knife packs surprising utility in a discreet, stocking-stuffer-ready size. At just 1.42” blade length and 0.12 lbs, it’s designed for light-duty precision tasks like opening envelopes, trimming threads, or handling small repairs on the go. The ergonomic safety lock ensures secure blade deployment, making it a safe yet functional pick for younger users or as a novelty gift. It’s the ideal micro-tool when you need a blade within reach but don’t want to carry a full-sized knife.

During testing, this knife proved reliable for everyday snips and minor fixes—think loosened backpack straps or a jammed package. The smooth opening mechanism avoids jerky motions, and the keychain-friendly design means it stays attached and accessible. However, the small blade limits its effectiveness on thicker materials like seat belts or dense rope. While it won’t replace a survival knife, it shines in urban EDC scenarios where discretion and portability matter more than cutting power.

When stacked against the Performance Tool W3232 or GUARDMAN carabiner knife, this model offers a cleaner aesthetic and safer lock, though it lacks advanced materials or emergency features. It’s best suited for gift-givers who want a practical yet symbolic present—something useful without being overwhelming. For bulk gifting or stocking stuffers, it delivers consistent value and broad appeal, especially for those who already own everything.

Meet the sweet spot of form and function—the Kershaw Appa is a masterclass in balanced EDC design, blending SpeedSafe assisted opening with featherlight portability. Its 2.75” reverse tanto blade, crafted from high-quality steel, slices through tape, cardboard, and paracord with surgical precision, while the liner lock and flipper tab ensure fast, one-handed deployment every time. Weighing just under 2 ounces, it disappears in your pocket yet feels robust during use, thanks to strategic cutouts in the handle that reduce weight without sacrificing strength.

Real-world testing reveals why this knife is a daily favorite: it’s fast to deploy, comfortable to grip, and reliable across environments—from office desks to trailside repairs. The reversible pocket clip lets you carry it left- or right-handed, and the T6-bit-adjustable hardware adds a touch of customization rare at this price. While the blade isn’t meant for heavy chopping, it excels at precision work and repetitive tasks. The only caveat? The all-black finish shows scuffs over time, but that’s a small trade for its consistent performance.

Compared to the BRILLIRARE AUS10 models, the Appa uses less exotic steel but wins with superior ergonomics and opening speed. Against budget picks like the Grand Way 6495, it’s lighter, slimmer, and more refined—ideal for users who prioritize smooth operation and pocket comfort. It’s the goldilocks choice for EDC enthusiasts who want premium feel without premium cost. It strikes a sharper balance between refinement and resilience than most sub-$20 knives.

This precision-engineered performer brings Japanese AUS10 steel to the budget battlefield, delivering elite-level edge retention in a sub-$10 package. With a 60–62 HRC hardness rating, the 2.6” blade resists dulling far longer than typical stainless steel knives, making it ideal for frequent cutters who hate constant sharpening. The buttery-smooth liner lock and non-slip aluminum handle ensure confident handling, even with wet or gloved hands, while the integrated glass breaker adds life-saving potential in emergencies.

In field use, this knife handles everything from slicing fruit to cutting rope with minimal effort. At 2.3 oz and 6.1” overall, it’s compact enough for daily carry but substantial enough to tackle real chores. The patented ice-hardening process enhances blade resilience, reducing chipping during heavy use. While the button lock isn’t as fast as flipper mechanisms, it’s reliable and secure. It’s a rare find: a budget knife that feels premium without cutting corners on materials.

Next to the Kershaw Appa, this BRILLIRARE model uses superior steel and offers better corrosion resistance, though it lacks assisted opening. Compared to the smaller GUARDMAN carabiner knife, it’s more capable and durable, making it the smarter pick for outdoor lovers. It’s the go-to EDC for hikers, campers, and preppers who want maximum performance without overspending. It outperforms rivals in blade quality while staying under $7.

The GUARDMAN carabiner knife redefines on-the-move readiness with a clever all-in-one design that merges a 3CR13 stainless blade with a functional carabiner clip—making it impossible to lose and always within reach. At just 2 oz and 3.94” long, it’s engineered for ultra-portable EDC, slipping onto keychains, backpacks, or belt loops without bulk. The blade delivers razor-sharp precision for light tasks like cutting twine, opening packages, or prepping snacks, and the ABS handle offers a surprisingly secure grip despite its size.

In real-world scenarios, this knife shines during quick-access needs: think opening a package at work, cutting a fishing line, or fixing a loose strap mid-hike. The carabiner doubles as a bottle opener, adding extra utility, and the folding design keeps it safe in pockets. However, the 3CR13 steel, while decent, won’t hold an edge as long as AUS10 or 440C. It’s not built for heavy chopping or survival tasks, but for convenience-first users, it’s a game-changer.

When compared to the Performance Tool W3232, the GUARDMAN offers better ergonomics and a more versatile carry system. Against the tiny B0FHFCTZ3F, it’s more durable and functional. It’s the top pick for portability, especially for dads, hikers, or travelers who want a discreet, always-with-you tool. It beats most micro-knives in utility while staying just as compact.

This pocket-sized powerhouse proves that small doesn’t mean weak, thanks to a patented design that combines a rubberized grip with a secure liner lock in a body that fits on your keychain. At just a few inches long, it’s one of the most compact legal folding knives available, yet it opens smoothly with a right-handed thumb stud and locks firmly for safe use. The beaded keychain ensures it stays put on your keys or gear, making it ideal for users who want a no-fail backup blade without dedicated pocket space.

In practice, the W3232 handles light-duty tasks like cutting tags, string, or plastic wrap with ease. The rubberized handle provides excellent traction, even in damp conditions, and the stainless blade holds a decent edge for its size. However, the lack of ambidextrous opening and limited blade length restricts its use to minor chores. It’s not meant for outdoor adventures, but for everyday micro-tasks, it’s surprisingly effective.

Versus the GUARDMAN carabiner knife, this model lacks multi-functionality but offers a more traditional knife feel. Compared to the B0FHFCTZ3F, it has a better grip and stronger lock. It’s the best ultra-compact budget knife for minimalists or those who want a disposable-grade tool with reusable quality. It undercuts competitors in size while matching them in reliability.

When survival readiness is non-negotiable, the B.BON 1085 steps up with integrated seat belt cutter and glass breaker—features that could save a life in a car emergency. The stainless steel blade is sharp out of the box and built for quick, reliable deployment via a thumb stud, while the liner lock keeps it secure during use. Its foldable design and pocket clip make it easy to carry in a glove box, backpack, or jacket—ensuring it’s there when seconds count.

Field testing confirms it excels in crisis scenarios: the window punch shatters tempered glass with minimal effort, and the seat belt cutter slices cleanly through webbing. For daily tasks, it handles light cutting well, though the blade isn’t optimized for prolonged use. It’s not the slickest EDC for office work, but for drivers, campers, or emergency kits, it’s indispensable.

Compared to the BRILLIRARE models, it lacks premium steel but wins with dedicated survival tools. Against the Grand Way 6495, it’s more focused on emergency use than general utility. It’s the top pick for preparedness, especially for parents, road trippers, or outdoor guides. It prioritizes life-saving function over everyday finesse.

This full-featured beast brings big-blade performance to the budget arena, featuring a 3.3” AUS10 high-carbon steel blade that’s ice-hardened for extreme edge retention—a rarity in this price range. At 4.2 oz and 7.8” overall, it’s the largest and most capable knife in this lineup, designed for users who want serious cutting power without splurging on high-end gear. The liner lock mechanism is rock-solid, and the glass breaker delivers emergency functionality with confidence.

In real use, it dominates tasks like chopping kindling, slicing food, or cutting rope—outperforming smaller knives with effortless precision and deep penetration. The premium aluminum handle offers a secure, non-slip grip, even in wet conditions, and the pocket clip ensures easy carry despite the size. While it’s too bulky for minimalist EDC, it’s perfect for camping, hunting, or survival kits where performance trumps portability.

Against the 2.6” BRILLIRARE model, this version offers longer reach and heavier-duty build, though it’s less pocket-friendly. Compared to the Kershaw Appa, it’s slower to open but far more powerful. It’s the best choice for outdoor enthusiasts who need a workhorse blade on a tight budget. It delivers the most cutting value per dollar in this entire lineup.