10 Best Pocket Knives Under $20: A Comprehensive Guide
As an enthusiast of pocket knives, you’re likely searching for a reliable and affordable option that fits your budget. With numerous options available in the market, choosing the right pocket knife can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll guide you through the top 10 best pocket knives under $20, providing an in-depth review of each model, its features, and pros and cons.
What to Look for in a Pocket Knife
Before we dive into the list, let’s discuss the essential factors to consider when selecting a pocket knife:
| Feature | Importance Level |
|---|---|
| Blade Material | High |
| Edge Retention | High |
| Handle Material | Medium |
| Size and Weight | Medium |
| Ease of Use | High |
| Durability | High |
These factors will help you make an informed decision when choosing a pocket knife that suits your needs.
1. CRKT Woods Chogan
The CRKT Woods Chogan is a compact and lightweight pocket knife perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With a 2.75-inch 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade, it offers excellent edge retention and rust resistance. The contoured handle made of wood and aluminum ensures a comfortable grip.
| Specifications | Description |
|---|---|
| Blade Material | 8Cr13MoV stainless steel |
| Blade Length | 2.75 inches |
| Handle Material | Wood and aluminum |
| Overall Length | 4.75 inches |
| Weight | 3.5 ounces |
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design
- Excellent edge retention and rust resistance
- Ergonomic handle for comfortable grip
Cons:
- Some users find the blade a bit too small
2. Kershaw Cryo II
The Kershaw Cryo II is a popular choice among pocket knife enthusiasts, offering a sleek and modern design. The 3-inch 14C28N stainless steel blade features a high-carbon content, providing excellent edge retention and rust resistance. The handle is made of a durable polymer, ensuring a comfortable grip.
| Specifications | Description |
|---|---|
| Blade Material | 14C28N stainless steel |
| Blade Length | 3 inches |
| Handle Material | Polymer |
| Overall Length | 6.25 inches |
| Weight | 4.2 ounces |
Pros:
- Sleek and modern design
- Excellent edge retention and rust resistance
- Durable polymer handle
Cons:
- Some users find the handle a bit too large
3. Gerber Paraframe
The Gerber Paraframe is a versatile pocket knife suitable for everyday carry. The 2.25-inch high-carbon stainless steel blade offers excellent edge retention and rust resistance. The contoured handle made of nylon ensures a comfortable grip.
| Specifications | Description |
|---|---|
| Blade Material | High-carbon stainless steel |
| Blade Length | 2.25 inches |
| Handle Material | Nylon |
| Overall Length | 4.25 inches |
| Weight | 3.5 ounces |
Pros:
- Versatile design for everyday carry
- Excellent edge retention and rust resistance
- Comfortable grip
Cons:
- Some users find the blade a bit too small
4. Spyderco Byrd Rohrbaugh
The Spyderco Byrd Rohrbaugh is a high-quality pocket knife featuring a 2.25-inch high-carbon stainless steel blade. The contoured handle made of FRN (fiberglass-reinforced nylon) ensures a comfortable grip.
| Specifications | Description |
|---|---|
| Blade Material | High-carbon stainless steel |
| Blade Length | 2.25 inches |
| Handle Material | FRN (fiberglass-reinforced nylon) |
| Overall Length | 4.5 inches |
| Weight | 3.5 ounces |
Pros:
- High-quality construction
- Excellent edge retention and rust resistance
- Comfortable grip
Cons:
- Some users find the handle a bit too stiff
5. SOG SEAL PUP
The SOG SEAL PUP is a compact and lightweight pocket knife designed for outdoor enthusiasts. The 2.5-inch 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade offers excellent edge retention and rust resistance. The handle is made of durable polymer, ensuring a comfortable grip.
| Specifications | Description |
|---|---|
| Blade Material | 8Cr13MoV stainless steel |
| Blade Length | 2.5 inches |
| Handle Material | Polymer |
| Overall Length | 4.5 inches |
| Weight | 3.2 ounces |
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design
- Excellent edge retention and rust resistance
- Durable polymer handle
Cons:
- Some users find the blade a bit too small
6. Buck 110 Folding Hunter
The Buck 110 Folding Hunter is a classic pocket knife featuring a 3.75-inch 420HC stainless steel blade. The contoured handle made of hardwood ensures a comfortable grip.
| Specifications | Description |
|---|---|
| Blade Material | 420HC stainless steel |
| Blade Length | 3.75 inches |
| Handle Material | Hardwood |
| Overall Length | 5.25 inches |
| Weight | 5.6 ounces |
Pros:
- Classic design
- Excellent edge retention and rust resistance
- Comfortable grip
Cons:
- Some users find the handle a bit too large
7. ESEE Knives 4P
The ESEE Knives 4P is a high-quality pocket knife featuring a 3.75-inch 1095 high-carbon steel blade. The contoured handle made of Micarta ensures a comfortable grip.
| Specifications | Description |
|---|---|
| Blade Material | 1095 high-carbon steel |
| Blade Length | 3.75 inches |
| Handle Material | Micarta |
| Overall Length | 5.5 inches |
| Weight | 6.5 ounces |
Pros:
- High-quality construction
- Excellent edge retention and rust resistance
- Comfortable grip
Cons:
- Some users find the handle a bit too stiff
8. Benchmade Griptilian
The Benchmade Griptilian is a versatile pocket knife featuring a 3.45-inch 154CM stainless steel blade. The contoured handle made of fiberglass-reinforced nylon ensures a comfortable grip.
| Specifications | Description |
|---|---|
| Blade Material | 154CM stainless steel |
| Blade Length | 3.45 inches |
| Handle Material | Fiberglass-reinforced nylon |
| Overall Length | 6.25 inches |
| Weight | 4.5 ounces |
Pros:
- Versatile design
- Excellent edge retention and rust resistance
- Comfortable grip
Cons:
- Some users find the handle a bit too large
9. Zero Tolerance 0350
The Zero Tolerance 0350 is a high-quality pocket knife featuring a 3.75-inch S30V stainless steel blade. The contoured handle made of carbon fiber ensures a comfortable grip.
| Specifications | Description |
|---|---|
| Blade Material | S30V stainless steel |
| Blade Length | 3.75 inches |
| Handle Material | Carbon fiber |
| Overall Length | 5.25 inches |
| Weight | 4.2 ounces |
Pros:
- High-quality construction
- Excellent edge retention and rust resistance
- Comfortable grip
Cons:
- Some users find the handle a bit too stiff
10. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield is a compact and lightweight pocket knife featuring a 2.5-inch 440C stainless steel blade. The contoured handle made of aluminum ensures a comfortable grip.
| Specifications | Description |
|---|---|
| Blade Material | 440C stainless steel |
| Blade Length | 2.5 inches |
| Handle Material | Aluminum |
| Overall Length | 4.5 inches |
| Weight | 3.5 ounces |
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design
- Excellent edge retention and rust resistance
- Comfortable grip
Cons:
- Some users find the blade a bit too small
Conclusion
When choosing a pocket knife, it’s essential to consider the features, pros, and cons of each model. The 10 best pocket knives under $20 reviewed in this article cater to various needs and preferences. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a collector, or a first-time buyer, there’s a pocket knife on this list that’s perfect for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best pocket knife for beginners?
The CRKT Woods Chogan is an excellent choice for beginners, offering a compact and lightweight design with excellent edge retention and rust resistance.
What is the most durable pocket knife?
The ESEE Knives 4P is a high-quality pocket knife featuring a 1095 high-carbon steel blade, making it one of the most durable options on the market.
Can I carry a pocket knife on a plane?
Yes, most pocket knives can be carried on a plane, but it’s essential to check with the airline and airport security before traveling.
How do I clean and maintain my pocket knife?
Cleaning and maintaining your pocket knife is crucial to ensure its longevity. Simply wipe the blade with a cloth, and apply a small amount of oil to the handle and pivot.
Additional Resources
- HTML link to article on edge retention
- HTML link to article on rust resistance
- HTML link to article on pocket knife safety
By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect pocket knife that suits your needs and budget. Remember to consider the features, pros, and cons of each model, and don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unsure. Happy hunting!