Top EDC Knife Brands: A Cut Above the Rest

In recent years, Everyday Carry (EDC) knives have become an essential tool for many individuals, whether for practicality, collection, or outdoor adventures. Various brands have made their mark in this space by offering exceptional quality, reliability, and innovative designs that cater to diverse needs and preferences. Some of the most highly regarded names in the market include Spyderco, known for its unique, easy-opening mechanisms; Benchmade, celebrated for its durability and USA-made craftsmanship; and Kershaw, praised for providing a great balance of affordability and quality. For those looking to explore the top options available and find the perfect EDC knife to suit their lifestyle, we invite you to learn more about these and other leading brands below.

Illustration of edc knives

Best brands of edc knives in 2025

Benchmade

Benchmade is renowned as one of the top producers of high-quality EDC (Every Day Carry) knives, known for their precision and durability. The company, based in Oregon City, USA, manufactures over 1,070,000 blades annually, utilizing 337,000 pounds of steel. Benchmade's commitment to quality is evident in their extensive range of customizable knives, catering to various user needs. The global knife market, which includes Benchmade's products, is projected to grow significantly, reaching USD 7.1 billion by 2032, with fixed blades like those from Benchmade expected to generate USD 2.76 billion. Benchmade's focus on innovation and customer satisfaction has made it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and everyday users.

Spyderco

Spyderco is renowned as one of the top producers of everyday carry (EDC) knives, known for its innovative designs and high-quality products. Founded by Sal Glesser in 1978, the company introduced the first pocket knife with a clip and a round hole in the blade for easy one-handed opening with the Worker model in 1981. Spyderco leads the industry in introducing new blade steels and collaborates with custom knife makers to offer a wide range of fixed and folding knives. The brand boasts a high recall rate among knife enthusiasts, with 98.3% of respondents able to recall Spyderco and 68.6% considering it top of mind. Spyderco's products are shipped to customers in 63 countries and range in price from $30 to $750. For more details on their extensive knife collection, visit the Spyderco website.

Kershaw

Kershaw is renowned for producing high-quality, affordable, and innovative everyday carry (EDC) knives, with a commitment to quality craftsmanship, utility, and value. Since its inception, Kershaw has mastered the craft of blade-making, now producing over a million knives annually. The brand's knives, such as the Kershaw Iridium, feature premium materials like D2 high-carbon tool steel and advanced mechanisms like the DuraLock system, all at accessible prices, often under $100. Kershaw's diverse product range includes folding knives, fixed-blade knives, and other cutlery items, catering to various needs and preferences. With a focus on innovation and a lifetime warranty, Kershaw remains a leader in the EDC knife market.

CRKT

Columbia River Knife & Tool (CRKT) is a renowned American knife manufacturer based in Tualatin, Oregon, known for its innovative and purpose-driven designs. Founded in 1994 by Rod Bremer and Paul Gillespi, CRKT has been at the forefront of contemporary knife design, particularly with its successful K.I.S.S. (Keep It Super Simple) knife introduced in 1997. CRKT produces a wide range of knives, including EDC, tactical, and survival models, with production facilities in China and Taiwan. The company is distinguished by its unique patents such as the AutoLAWKS locking mechanism and OutBurst assisted opening mechanism. CRKT's commitment to high-quality materials and comprehensive warranties has made it a favorite among knife enthusiasts. For more information, visit their official website.

Zero Tolerance

Zero Tolerance Knives, renowned for their exceptional quality and durability, are a top choice for everyday carry (EDC) knives, particularly among military, law enforcement, and first responders. These knives are built with super steels like CPM S35VN and CPM-MagnaCut, ensuring they can handle real-world situations effectively. The 0450 model, for example, features a 3.25-inch blade and lightweight titanium handles, making it a sleek and sophisticated EDC option. With collaborations from esteemed designers like Dmitry Sinkevich, Zero Tolerance knives embody a form-follows-function approach to aesthetics. Their commitment to quality and design sets them apart in the market.

Gerber

Gerber, a renowned brand in the knife industry, is highly regarded for producing top-quality Everyday Carry (EDC) knives. With a strong presence in the global knife market, Gerber benefits from the growing demand for outdoor and recreational activities, particularly in North America where the brand holds a significant market share. In 2023, the global outdoor knife market, which includes Gerber's products, was estimated at USD 2.26 billion and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.2% from 2024 to 2030. Gerber's innovative designs and use of advanced materials have contributed to the brand's popularity among outdoor enthusiasts. The brand's proximity to a large market of hunting and outdoor gear enthusiasts in the U.S. further enhances its market position.

Victorinox

Victorinox is renowned as one of the best producers of EDC (Everyday Carry) knives, particularly with their iconic Swiss Army Knives. These knives account for 20% of Victorinox's revenue in the travel retail sector, although they make up a larger share of 60% in the overall business, alongside household and professional knives. The brand's commitment to quality and innovation is evident in their diverse product range, including watches, cutlery, travel gear, and fragrances. Customization options are also available, with enthusiasts able to modify their Swiss Army Knives to suit their preferences. Victorinox's strong market presence is further underscored by their acquisition of the Wenger brand in 2005. For more details about their diverse offerings, explore the Victorinox official website.

SOG Specialty Knives

SOG Specialty Knives is a renowned brand in the industry, particularly noted for its high-quality everyday carry (EDC) knives. Founded in 1986 by Spencer and Gloria Frazer, the company draws inspiration from the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam Studies and Observations Group (MACV-SOG). SOG manufactures a diverse range of knives, including fixed-blade and folding knives, as well as multi-tools, with many of their products made or assembled in the United States. The company's annual revenue is estimated at $49.7 million, with a significant employee growth rate of 11%. SOG's products, such as the SEAL 2000 and Tech Bowie, are highly regarded for their durability and innovative designs.

Cold Steel

Cold Steel is renowned as one of the top producers of everyday carry (EDC) knives, known for their innovative designs and robust construction, particularly the Triad lock mechanism which offers exceptional strength and efficiency without the need for metal liners. This lock design allows for thinner and lighter knives while maintaining high strength, as seen in models like the Broken Skull, Code 4, and Air Lite. Cold Steel's products have been popular among outdoor enthusiasts and collectors, with the company's legacy items experiencing high demand, especially after the change in ownership in 2021. The brand's commitment to quality and durability has made it a favorite among knife enthusiasts. With its wide range of products, Cold Steel continues to be a significant player in the knife market, which is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.18% from 2024 to 2031. For more insights, visit the Cold Steel website.

Buck Knives

Buck Knives is a renowned American manufacturer of high-quality knives, particularly esteemed for their durable and versatile everyday carry (EDC) knives. With over 75 years of experience, Buck Knives has established a strong presence in the outdoor category, known for their iconic models such as the 110 Folding Hunter and 112 Ranger knives. The company's commitment to quality is evident in their proprietary heat treatment process, which supports their "forever warranty." Buck Knives employs 320 people in their Post Falls, Idaho factory, and their products have maintained consistent sales even during the COVID-19 pandemic. The brand's loyalty and customer trust are reflected in their long history and the fact that many people's first knife was often a Buck knife. For more information about their products, you can visit their official website.