Top Folding Knife Brands for Sharp Enthusiasts

Folding knives are essential tools that blend functionality with portability, offering a convenient solution for a variety of tasks from outdoor adventures to everyday needs. As the market continues to expand, several brands have distinguished themselves by consistently delivering quality, durability, and innovation in their knife designs. Renowned brands such as Spyderco, Benchmade, and Buck Knives have become favorites among enthusiasts and professionals alike, thanks to their commitment to precision craftsmanship and superior materials. To explore the top contenders in the realm of folding knives and find the perfect fit for your specific needs, read on.

Illustration of folding knives

Best brands of folding knives in 2025

Benchmade

Benchmade Knives, based in Oregon City, Oregon, is a leading producer of high-quality folding knives, known for their innovative designs and superior materials. Founded by Les de Asis, the company has been manufacturing knives for over 20 years, with a focus on tactical, survival, and everyday carry (EDC) knives. Benchmade's products, such as the 275 Adamas and 710 models, feature advanced mechanisms like the AXIS lock, and are made from high-end materials like 154CM and S30V stainless steel. The company's commitment to quality and local production has contributed to its success, with annual revenue exceeding $30 million and a workforce of over 150 employees. Benchmade's knives are highly regarded by hunters, police officers, and enthusiasts, reflecting their strong market presence. You can learn more about their exceptional range of knives on their official website.

Spyderco

Spyderco, founded in 1978 by Sal Glesser, is a leading producer of folding knives, renowned for its innovative designs and high-quality products. The company introduced the first pocket knife with a clip and a round hole in the blade for easy one-handed opening, setting a standard in the industry. Spyderco's brand awareness is exceptionally high, with 98.3% of knife enthusiasts able to recall the brand, and it is widely recognized for its ergonomic and functional tools. Their knives are manufactured in several countries, including the US, Taiwan, Japan, and Italy, and are used by various segments such as law enforcement, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts. Spyderco's commitment to quality and innovation has made it a favorite among knife collectors and users worldwide. For further insights, visit Spyderco Knives.

Zero Tolerance

Zero Tolerance is renowned for producing high-end, ultra-durable folding knives, engineered to exacting standards in the USA. Their knives, such as the ZT0350, feature premium materials like S30V stainless steel and G-10 handles, ensuring robust performance and longevity. Designed by industry legends like Ken Onion, these knives are popular among military, law enforcement, and everyday carry enthusiasts. The brand's commitment to quality and functionality has earned it a loyal following, despite the higher price point. With a meticulous domestic manufacturing process using ultra-tight tolerances, Zero Tolerance knives are built to withstand hostile conditions. For an in-depth look at some of their most popular models, check out this comprehensive guide.

Kershaw

Kershaw, a renowned brand under the KAI Group, is a leading producer of high-quality folding knives, known for their innovative designs and durable construction. Founded in the mid-1970s, Kershaw has grown to become one of the most respected brands among knife enthusiasts, with popular lines such as the Cryo, Leek, and Blur, which feature the award-winning SpeedSafe opening mechanism. Kershaw knives are manufactured in both the USA and China, ensuring a balance between quality and affordability. The brand's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has made it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, law enforcement, and military personnel. With a strong presence in the U.S. tactical folding knives market, Kershaw contributes significantly to the sector's projected growth from $1,218.88 million in 2023 to $2,736.01 million by 2032, at a CAGR of 9.40%.

CRKT

CRKT (Columbia River Knife & Tool) is a renowned brand in the knife industry, founded in 1994 by Paul Gillespie and Rod Bremer, and is known for its innovative and high-quality folding knives. CRKT collaborates with top designers worldwide to produce unique and sturdy blades, such as the iconic K.I.S.S. and M16 series, and more recent designs featuring the Klecker Lock. The company's commitment to quality, innovation, and value has made it a leader in the market, particularly in the segment of folding knives which are expected to witness significant growth with a CAGR of 6.2% from 2021 to 2028. CRKT's products are designed for various purposes, including outdoor activities, self-defense, and everyday carry, catering to a wide range of users. Their focus on providing "Confidence in Hand" has earned them a strong reputation among consumers.

Cold Steel

Cold Steel is renowned as one of the top producers of folding knives, known for their high-quality and durable products. The company's Recon 1 folding knife, featuring a 4-inch, clip-point MagnaCut blade, is a testament to their innovative designs and robust construction. Cold Steel's commitment to using advanced materials, such as the new MagnaCut steel, enhances the performance and longevity of their knives. With a strong presence in the market, Cold Steel continues to meet the demands of various users, from outdoor enthusiasts to military personnel. Their products are highly regarded for their reliability and effectiveness in diverse applications.

Gerber

Gerber is a renowned brand in the knife industry, particularly noted for its high-quality folding knives. The U.S. tactical folding knives market, in which Gerber is a key player, is projected to grow from USD 1,218.88 million in 2023 to USD 2,736.01 million by 2032, with a CAGR of 9.40%. Gerber's products are favored by law enforcement, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts due to their technological advancements and customization options. In the global knife market, folding blades, a segment where Gerber excels, are expected to generate USD 2.30 billion by 2032. Gerber's commitment to innovation and quality has solidified its position among top brands like Smith & Wesson and SOG.

SOG

SOG is a renowned brand in the tactical folding knives market, known for its high-quality and versatile products. It is not considered a budget brand, as it offers a range of models, including those that are priced competitively but not necessarily cheap. SOG's products are popular among law enforcement, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts, contributing to the growth of the U.S. tactical folding knives market, which is projected to reach USD 2,736.01 million by 2032 with a CAGR of 9.40%. The brand's commitment to technological advancements and customization further enhances its market position. SOG, along with other key players like Smith & Wesson and Gerber, drives the market's expansion. For more detailed insights on the market dynamics, you can refer to this comprehensive report on the U.S. tactical folding knives market.

Buck Knives

Buck Knives is a renowned brand in the folding knives market, known for its high-quality and durable products. Established with a rich history, Buck Knives has been a staple in the industry since its significant expansion from the 1950s to the 1970s. The company is particularly famous for its iconic models like the 110 Folding Hunter and 112 Ranger, which have been favorites among outdoor enthusiasts and collectors. Buck Knives continues to innovate, offering new lines of fixed and folding models with enhanced quality steel and lightweight designs, contributing to the market's growth with a projected CAGR of 5.6% from 2022 to 2031. For more details, visit their official website.

Victorinox

Victorinox, renowned for its Swiss Army knives, is one of the best producers of folding knives, known for their high quality and versatility. The company's products, such as the Swiss Army pocket knives, contribute significantly to the global pocket knives market, which was valued at USD 600.5 million in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6% from 2023 to 2030. Victorinox's commitment to excellence is reflected in the dominant market share of steel materials, with steel accounting for 60% of the total knife market. The brand's popularity is particularly strong in regions like North America, where outdoor activities and a culture of preparedness drive demand. Victorinox's innovative designs and durable construction have made their folding knives indispensable tools for both everyday users and professionals.