10 Best EDC Knives Under $100: Top Picks for Your Everyday Carry
As an outdoor enthusiast, there’s nothing more essential than having a reliable and trustworthy EDC (Everyday Carry) knife by your side. Whether you’re a hiker, camper, or simply someone who appreciates the convenience of having a knife handy, finding the right EDC knife can be a daunting task, especially when you’re on a budget. In this article, we’ll be exploring the top 10 EDC knives under $100 that are sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
Choosing the Right EDC Knife: What to Look For
Before we dive into our top picks, let’s take a moment to discuss what makes a great EDC knife. Here are some key factors to consider:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Blade Material | Look for high-carbon stainless steel or titanium for durability and corrosion resistance |
| Blade Shape | Straight, serrated, or tanto blades cater to different needs and preferences |
| Handle Material | Choose from aluminum, glass-filled nylon, or wood for a comfortable grip |
| Ergonomics | A contoured handle and finger guard ensure a secure grip and reduced fatigue |
| Pocket Clip | A sturdy clip keeps your knife secure and within reach |
| Weight | A lightweight knife is ideal for daily carry |
Top 10 EDC Knives Under $100
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s get to our top picks! Here are the best EDC knives under $100 that are sure to impress:
1. Spyderco Paramilitary 2
- Blade material: 8Cr13MoV stainless steel
- Blade shape: Straight
- Handle material: Glass-filled nylon
- Weight: 3.5 oz
- Price: $60
The Spyderco Paramilitary 2 is a popular choice among EDC enthusiasts, thanks to its lightweight design and exceptional cutting performance. Its ergonomic handle and finger guard provide a secure grip, while the 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade is both durable and corrosion-resistant.
2. Benchmade Griptilian
- Blade material: 154CM stainless steel
- Blade shape: Straight
- Handle material: Glass-filled nylon
- Weight: 3.8 oz
- Price: $80
The Benchmade Griptilian is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its rugged design and exceptional cutting performance. Its contoured handle and finger guard ensure a secure grip, while the 154CM stainless steel blade is both durable and corrosion-resistant.
3. Victorinox Swiss Classic SD
- Blade material: 440C stainless steel
- Blade shape: Straight
- Handle material: Fiberglass-reinforced nylon
- Weight: 3.2 oz
- Price: $50
The Victorinox Swiss Classic SD is a classic EDC knife that’s both durable and affordable. Its 440C stainless steel blade is both corrosion-resistant and easy to sharpen, while the fiberglass-reinforced nylon handle provides a comfortable grip.
4. Gerber Paraframe
- Blade material: 420HC stainless steel
- Blade shape: Straight
- Handle material: Aluminum
- Weight: 2.8 oz
- Price: $40
The Gerber Paraframe is a lightweight and compact EDC knife that’s perfect for daily carry. Its 420HC stainless steel blade is both durable and corrosion-resistant, while the aluminum handle provides a comfortable grip.
5. CRKT Drifter
- Blade material: 8Cr13MoV stainless steel
- Blade shape: Straight
- Handle material: Aluminum
- Weight: 2.9 oz
- Price: $30
The CRKT Drifter is a budget-friendly EDC knife that’s perfect for beginners or those on a tight budget. Its 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade is both durable and corrosion-resistant, while the aluminum handle provides a comfortable grip.
6. Kershaw Leek
- Blade material: 420HC stainless steel
- Blade shape: Straight
- Handle material: 6061-T6 aluminum
- Weight: 2.8 oz
- Price: $40
The Kershaw Leek is a lightweight and compact EDC knife that’s perfect for daily carry. Its 420HC stainless steel blade is both durable and corrosion-resistant, while the 6061-T6 aluminum handle provides a comfortable grip.
7. Buck 110 Folding Hunter
- Blade material: 420HC stainless steel
- Blade shape: Straight
- Handle material: Wood
- Weight: 3.2 oz
- Price: $60
The Buck 110 Folding Hunter is a classic EDC knife that’s both durable and reliable. Its 420HC stainless steel blade is both corrosion-resistant and easy to sharpen, while the wood handle provides a comfortable grip.
8. Smith & Wesson SWFRS
- Blade material: 8Cr13MoV stainless steel
- Blade shape: Straight
- Handle material: Glass-filled nylon
- Weight: 3.5 oz
- Price: $50
The Smith & Wesson SWFRS is a budget-friendly EDC knife that’s perfect for beginners or those on a tight budget. Its 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade is both durable and corrosion-resistant, while the glass-filled nylon handle provides a comfortable grip.
9. Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion
- Blade material: 1095 high-carbon steel
- Blade shape: Straight
- Handle material: Glass-filled nylon
- Weight: 6.2 oz
- Price: $70
The Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion is a heavy-duty EDC knife that’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Its 1095 high-carbon steel blade is both durable and corrosion-resistant, while the glass-filled nylon handle provides a comfortable grip.
10. SOG Paratool II
- Blade material: 420HC stainless steel
- Blade shape: Straight
- Handle material: Aluminum
- Weight: 2.9 oz
- Price: $60
The SOG Paratool II is a lightweight and compact EDC knife that’s perfect for daily carry. Its 420HC stainless steel blade is both durable and corrosion-resistant, while the aluminum handle provides a comfortable grip.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best EDC knife for a beginner?
- The CRKT Drifter is a great option for beginners, offering a durable and corrosion-resistant blade at an affordable price.
- What is the best EDC knife for outdoor enthusiasts?
- The Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion is a great option for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a heavy-duty blade and durable construction.
- What is the best EDC knife for daily carry?
- The Spyderco Paramilitary 2 is a great option for daily carry, offering a lightweight design and exceptional cutting performance.
Conclusion
Finding the right EDC knife can be a daunting task, especially when you’re on a budget. But with our top 10 picks under $100, you’re sure to find the perfect knife for your needs. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced outdoorsman, these knives offer a range of features and benefits that are sure to impress. Remember to consider your needs and preferences when choosing an EDC knife, and don’t be afraid to try out different options before making a final decision. Happy hunting!