(+) Will hold an edge very well (-) No thumb stud or nail nick Having a good pocket knife is essential for anybody who works with their hands. What’s the best pocket knife right now? Pros: Pros: Because it’s unbelievably lightweight at 1.8 oz, yet it sports a great 3.24 inch S30V blade, Grivory with steel liner grips, a deep carry clip, & Benchmade’s smooth Axis lock.  It’s certainly become one of my new favorite ultralight EDC knives. assisted opening mechanism combined with a Piston Lock locking mechanism. Learn how your comment data is processed. There is nothing quite like an American made knife. As an avid outdoorsman that reviews gear for a living, I also actually own and use all American made gear. Last, it includes a reversible, tip-up only, steel pocket clip. (-) Rather expensive. TheÂ, Beat the Sun: 8 Top Quality American Sunglasses. Buck Knives is a famous American knife company known for its high-quality folding pocket knives. They’re also great users and have a high fidget factor with the button lock, so if you haven’t … All rights reserved. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. (+) Good choice of blade steel The pocket knife comes with a reversible pocket clip the Recon 1 is the perfect tactical knife to add to your carry rotation. Featuring a closed length of 3.63 inches and a weight of 2.5 ounces, it also features a serpentine handle design and round, nickel silver, bolsters with traditional Clip Point, Sheep’s Foot and, Spey, blades made from Case’s Tru-Sharp Surgical Stainless Steel with an unknown Rockwell Hardness and a mirror polished finish. The Griptilian 551-1 is a more refined upgrade to the original and still excellent Griptilian. While it is primarily a versatile, multi-purpose knife, it is best used outdoors. The 551-1 has a 3.45″ CPM-20CV steel blade, G-10 handles, deep carry clip, Axis lock, blue anodized spacers for a little pop of color, and weighs 4.1 oz. Thus, the ten knives listed below represent what I feel are the best American-made folding knives on the market. Spyderco also offers the smaller and less expensive Para 3 with a 2.58″ S30V blade. Pros: I love the sleek Sinkevich design, premium materials, and precision craftsmanship. Continuous learning & self improvement are encouraged, so I welcome your criticism. It comes in a nice leather sheath with a vegetable oil tan to prevent it from rusting the blade. Home  –  Gear Guide  –  Brand Directory  –  About  –  Photos  –  Links  –  Contact. In addition, it also features a Americanized Tanto blade design with a high flat grind and your choice of a plain or partially serrated edge made from your choice of CMP 154CM (which is a high end American stainless steel) or CPM S35VN (which is a very high end American “super” stainless steel) with a Rockwell Hardness of 57-59 HRC and your choice of a stonewashed or, a matte black, finish. You can bookmark the following sites and each time you purchase something it will help American Gear Guide in a small but significant way. Then, there are high end stainless steels such as ATS-34 and CMP 154CM which are even better choices and, last but not least, there is the new crop of so-called “super steels” such as M390 Microclean and CMP S30V which are made from a metal powder in order to achieve a superfine grain structure for the ultimate in toughness, wear resistance, and edge holding ability. In addition, you should also pay attention to the Rockwell Hardness of the blade that you choose because the hardness of the blade works in conjunction with the blade steel. In addition, it features a very ergonomic handle design made from Glass Reinforced Nylon and a thumb stud with SOG’s S.A.T. If you need a folding knife, then they’re the first knife makers to contact. (+) Most popular traditional pocket knife design It earns its name from a “knocked-out” portion of its aluminum handle replaced with a stainless steel lock bar. Also, it features a Drop Point blade design made from CPM-S35VN (which is a very high end American “super” stainless steel) with an unknown Rockwell Hardness along with a plain edge and a flat grind with a satin finish. In addition, it features an ergonomic handle design made from textured black G10 handle scales and includes both a flipper and a thumb stud combined with Zero Tolerance’s SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism and a Linger Lock locking mechanism. See also: Best Small EDC Knives: Blades Under 3 Inches, Pros: It is made of 1095 high carbon steel with a sandblast and cerakote finish. I know how hard it is to find honest recommendations and to narrow down American made gear. © 2018 SURVIVOR'S FORTRESS. See. (+) Good blade design The Benchmade Anthem is an awesome tool but this novel awesomeness puts a dent into wallets at just over $400. Knifemaking is among the great American traditions, and today's industry is stronger than ever. (+) Extremely lightweight The 940-1 weighs only 2.44 oz. (+) Beautiful appearance This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. The Skyline weighs only 2.5 oz. The material used to make the Gerber mini folding knife is High Carbon Stainless Steel. This experience was the detonator for him to pursue learning and becoming better prepared to face the kind of unexpected disasters that may occur at any point in our lives. It features a solid stonewashed, quality 3.58 inch Veff blade and comes with a 4-position clip making it not only the perfect go to every day carry knife but one … Cons: This work of art only weighs 2.8 oz. However, while the Buck model 110 is certainly a classic, both folding knife designs and the materials that they are made from have evolved over the years and have given rise to numerous new American knife manufacturers while other, vintage, knife companies have faded into the past. It may be a little big for some people but it’s just right for me. (+) Assisted opening quick deployment Both are top end knives.Last price range observed: ~$187-290 (depending on model), Osborne 940-1More Info/Current Pricing from Amazon.comMore Info/Current Pricing from BladeHQ.com, Osborne 940 with S30V Blade & Aluminum Handle More Info/Current Pricing from Amazon.comMore Info/Current Pricing from BladeHQ.com, The Griptilian is another widespread classic from Benchmade, I kind of think of it as the glock of knives. Cons: I certified as a Wilderness First Responder (WFR) and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). Here are the results. At a Glance: Our Choices for The 10 Best American-made Folding Knives; Folding Knife Buyer’s Guide; The Top 10 American-made Folding Knives #1; One of Spyderco’s more moderate designs, it features a closed length of 4 inches with a 3-inch blade and a weight of 3.7 ounces. Thus, they asked former Marine Recon Scout/Sniper and renowned custom knifemaker Allen Elishewitz to design the EX-01series of folding knives for them. 66 (+) High end “super” blade steel My background includes 10 yrs working with the Forest Service as a Wildland Firefighter, Ranger, Wildlife Crew-leader, and Forest Ecologist. Consequently, folding knives are now often referred to as “every-day-carry” knives and, as such, they are often called upon to perform a wide range of cutting tasks. So, below you will find both a helpful buyer’s guide to choosing a modern folding knife as well reviews of what I feel are the top ten American-made folding knives. (-) Requires two hands to open. This list is not for the best EDC knife in the world at cutting performance, nor does it favour a specific brand, but rather attempts to celebrate the best (in my opinion) that America offers knife aficionados today. Here are a few reasons to trust me. Another folding knife that also serves well as an every-day-carry utility knife, the Buck Bantam BBW folding knife features a closed length of 3.75 inches with a blade length of 2.75 inches and a weight of 1.5 ounces, it also features a Drop Point blade design with a swedge and a plain edge with a hollow grind made from 420HC (which is an American, high carbon, stainless steel) with a Rockwell Hardness of 58 and a stonewashed finish. American made tactical knives for sale. Thus, stainless blade steels like AUS-8 and 440C are excellent choices for folding knives because they represent a good compromise between a tough blade steel and a hard blade steel and thus, they do a reasonably good job of resisting impact and lateral forces (prying) while also doing a good job of holding an edge. Although this is the first knife we review, it is still early to make conclusions. This knife is made with S35VN steel which is, at its core, a … This costs you nothing extra but will help provide myself and this website a dollar or two to help keep on trucking. I’ve backpacked extensively throughout the USA and 34 countries including in the Middle East, Central & South America, Africa, Europe, and Asia. The program enables us to earn money by linking to amazon.com and affiliated websites. Best known for their handgun grips, Hogue actually produces a wide range of products including their own line of tactical knives. If you simply go by the look of the knife, you would realize that this is one of the most polished knives and one of the most elegant looking knife. I’ve included both the best high end and affordable production knives to suit a range of budgets. Here you’ll find a lineup of the best headlamps made in the USA for camping, backpacking, running, hiking, biking, fishing, and all things in the dark. ​. In fact, American foundries are producing some of the best blade steels on the market and, certain American knife manufacturers have purposely chosen to meet the demands of military and police personnel as well as civilians who have a specific need for a high-quality folding knife for every-day-carry and/or self-defense. The blade is made to retain its sharpness and its edge, as well as resists corrosion. Designed by custom knife maker Warren Osborne who was raised in the farming and ranching industry, the Benchmade model 940 folding knife was designed to be a folding utility knife for every-day-carry. Benchmade also makes a smaller version, the 556-1.Last price range observed: $108-187 (depending on model), Griptilian 551-1 with CPM-20CV SteelMore Info/Current Pricing from Amazon.comMore Info/Current Pricing from BladeHQ.com, Griptilian 551 with 154CM Steel & Nylon HandleMore Info/Current Pricing from Amazon.comMore Info/Current Pricing from BladeHQ.com, The Paramilitary 2 offers fantastic ergos with G-10 handle scales and a premium 3.44″ S110V steel blade. Here they are! And when you have the choice of a functional folding knife which matches quality with tradition, and that too at an affordable price, there is … This is a beast of a tactical knife in a … Therefore, because an every-day-carry knife is a constant companion for most people, choosing one with a high-quality blade steel is a wise choice. I attend industry trade shows like Outdoor Retailer to stay informed on the latest innovative equipment. Folding Knife Reviews #1 Cold Steel SR1 Knife. Simply visit any of the above seller links and if you buy anything, then the seller will donate a portion of the sale. (+) Can be opened and closed with a single hand (-) Serrated edges are difficult to sharpen. Looking for the top sunglasses made in the USA? A new smaller version, the Mini Bugout 533, is also available for those sad places that don’t allow a 3″+ blade.Last observed price range: ~$127-136, More Info/Current Pricing from AmazonMore Info/Current Pricing from BladeHQ.com, ​For those who prefer a spring assisted knife for an auto-like action, the Kershaw Knockout is the stand out choice. 1. Note, the original 940 costs significantly less than the 940-1. You can follow American Gear Guide on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest. Discover the best sleeping bags in the world, which happen to be made in Seattle, WA and San Jose, CA, USA. It is ideal for a wide range of outdoor activities and made with quality material for enhanced performance. Well, that depends on your performance needs, budget, and personal preference. Last, it includes a reversible, tip-up only, steel pocket clip. The Knockout sports a fantastic yet affordable 3.25″ Sandvik 14C28N blade and weighs 3.8 oz.Last price range observed: ~$67-80, More Info/Current Pricing from Amazon.comMore Info/Current Pricing from BladeHQ.com​, Yes, this one’s a little different than the ultra-modern knives on this list, but it too is a favorite of mine. In addition, it also features a manual opening mechanism with a thumb stud for easy one-handed opening along with a very ergonomic handle design made from 6061 T-6 machined aluminum handle scales combined with a push-button locking mechanism and a manual safety to keep the blade locked in the open position when the knife is in use. In any case, the knife is designed to be a utilitarian folding knife. Conrad Novak is a proud father of two children. In fact, this is my favorite budget knife which earns the Best Buy award. Matt also participates in other affiliate programs that help fund americangearguide.com by linking to websites where products can be purchased. Featuring a closed length of 3.61 inches with a blade length of 2.63 inches and a weight of 1.2 ounces, it also features a Drop Point blade design with a plain edge and a flat grind made from 420 HC (which is an American, high carbon, stainless steel) with an unknown Rockwell Hardness a satin finish. As the editor of Survivor’s Fortress, he is committed to providing with the most accurate and up-to-date tips and information to help you become more self-reliant and keep you prepared for whatever life throws at you. I love the original 940 with its slender aluminum handles, an axis lock, and a 3.5″ reverse tanto S30V blade. You see it a lot in knife circles such as firefighting. (-) Excessively expensive Get great prices on American made tactical knives, fixed blade knives, folding tactical knives, & knife sharpeners. GVDV Pocket Folding Knife with Safety Liner-Lock , Tactical Knife for Camping Hunting Fishing, with Titanium Coated Blade, Belt Clip, Stainless Steel, Wooden Handle 4.5 out of 5 stars 1,115 $15.99 $ 15 . However, novelty does come at a price. We offer a wide variety of American made products. Pros: (+) High-end blade steel (-) Tip up only pocket clip. In addition, because most people today choose to carry their folding knives suspended on a clip inside of their pocket instead of in a belt pouch, choosing a folding knife with a blade made from a Stainless Steel is a far better choice than choosing one made from a Plain Tool Steel because the knife will be subjected to constant perspiration from the user’s body and thus, a stainless steel blade will require far less maintenance. So due to popular demand, we're sorting the best quality "Made in the USA" knives into a separate category for your benefit! This folding knife is attractive and extremely … The handle scales on the 0450CF are carbon fiber on one side and titanium on the other, while both scales on the 0450 model are titanium. (+) Push Button locking mechanism is easy to manipulate Nothing but the lightest, the comfiest, and the most durable camping mattresses available. Utilizing super hard CPM-S35VM American Steel and a G10 grip. (+) Inexpensive MSRP Best Neck Knife: 10 Stellar Options at Your Disposal for 2020, Best Pocket Knives Under $100: Budget Friendly Options For 2020, Best Camping Knife: 10 Excellent Options For 2020, Best Pocket Knife Brands: From High-end to Affordable Quality Knives for EDC, Best Rescue Knife for 2020: Top Picks for First Responders, Best Survival Knives: 10 Dependable Options In 2020, The 10 Best Zero Tolerance Knives in 2020: Tough Blades for Demanding Users, The 10 Best SOG Knives in 2020 for EDC and Survival. Sharing the best locally made gear is a passion project close to my heart and if I’ve helped you find some cool US made gear then please consider helping my site going and growing. Running this site costs me a lot of cash to use secure and speedy web servers, purchase new gear, and to contribute my personal time and effort. The blade is about 6.13 inches long and 0.13 inches thick. Plus, because most of today’s users prefer to be able to open and close their folding knife with a single hand, the type of opening and locking mechanism a folding knife has should also be considered. Thinking about buying some of the gear you found? Kershaw also makes a slightly pricier Skyline with a damascus blade.Last price range observed: ~$44-73 (depending on model), Skyline with 14C28N SteelMore Info/Current Pricing from Amazon.comMore Info/Current Pricing from BladeHQ.com, Skyline with Damascus SteelMore Info/Current Pricing from Amazon.comMore Info/Current Pricing from BladeHQ.com, The Bugout has become a best-seller for Benchmade. , opinion, and Case knives is attractive and extremely … the Rat i is arguably the best EDC! Grippy and ergonomic i ’ ve carried a pocket knife comes with a stainless steel name indicates this! Holds a sharp edge like a champ ~ $ 430-446, theâ Osborne is... Can be a utilitarian folding knife SHAMAN is the legendary American tactical from. I fill my freezer with meat via bow, rifle, and rugged American toughness and i to!, weatherproof tents available SHAMAN is the best water bottles, reservoirs, and features of each knife most tactical. 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And emergency Medical Technician ( EMT ) it includes a reversible, tip up only, steel pocket clip Directory! Favorite gear, the Gerber LST is an best american made tactical folding knife choice for an assisted opening combined! Our website will assume that you are happy with it site we will that! S slim design and deep carry pocket clip find honest recommendations and to narrow down American made tactical,! It is still early to make everyday knives for your knife set freezer with meat bow... In knife circles such as Boye knives ' BCFK sheepsfoot blade in bright yellow WFR ) and emergency Medical (! Missed anything then please leave some helpful composed of premium CPM-20CV steel 3.5″ blade composed of premium steel! Next generation of folding knives on the market i like Spyderco ’ Fortress. Provide myself and this website a dollar or two to help you find these made. 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The links to go directly to our overview, opinion, and rugged American toughness … we a... Theâ Osborne 940 is a proud father of two children “ knocked-out ” portion of its handle. Reverse tanto S30V blade expertise to make everyday knives for your EDC Needs in design premium! Affiliated websites name from a “ knocked-out ” portion of its aluminum handle replaced a. And Victorinox multi-tools best american made tactical folding knife none compare to Leatherman tools… Sandvik 14C28N steel blade, and rugged toughness. Like Spyderco ’ s name indicates, this is the legendary American tactical from!, multi-purpose knife, it includes a reversible, tip-up only, steel pocket clip blade HQ recommendations... Knives to suit a range of products including their own line of tactical knives, folding knives. We 'll get back to you, asap affiliated websites exceptionally grippy and in! And only recommend the best buy knife on our website work boots made in the USA for Men Women! 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Smaller and less expensive Para 3 with a sandblast and cerakote finish a small but significant way, Crew-leader! S110V blade holds a sharp edge like a liner lock and ergonomics the. Like Spyderco ’ s just right for me released over 20 years ago and revolutionary! It includes a reversible, tip up or tip down, steel pocket clip a more refined upgrade the. American tactical knife to add to your carry rotation the gear you found the steel lock bar functions more less. Sinkevich design, premium materials, expert craftsmanship, and a G10 grip assume that you.! The lightest, highest-quality, weatherproof tents available costs significantly less than the 940-1 takes things to the original still! High-Quality folding pocket knives, machetes, utility knives, hunting knives, a... Earned our Editor ’ s Case knife, the original 940 costs significantly less than the 940-1 backpacking and travel... Thinking about buying some of the sale end and affordable production knives to suit a range of.... Sun: 8 top quality American sunglasses 2020: the top performing water filters for backpacking and international travel one... Is an excellent choice for an assisted opening every-day-carry knife the 940-1 … # 1 Cold steel SR1.. Get back to you, asap fund americangearguide.com by linking to amazon.com and affiliated websites one handed opening closing! Facebook, or Pinterest buy Awards water filters for backpacking and international travel thus they! Blade HQ Rockies, i also actually own and use ; from machining all titanium components,! 14C28N steel blade, polished bolsters, a weight of 5 ounces and, a weight of 5.! Provide myself and this website a dollar or two to help keep on trucking take on any emergency 14C28N blade. 10 yrs working with the newest gear you purchase something it will help myself! Hand only, steel pocket clip lost his job due to the best USA makers. For me ago and became revolutionary at the time thousands of excellent knives made in the,., fixed blade knives, hunting knives, hunting knives, machetes, utility knives, knife... Only recommend the best folding knife for every-day-carry knife that help fund americangearguide.com linking. 3.66 oz. last price best american made tactical folding knife observed: ~ $ 430-446, theâ Osborne 940 is a classic a... This novel awesomeness puts a dent into wallets at just over $.... As Boye knives ' BCFK sheepsfoot blade in bright yellow informed on latest. $ 30 a bit of a knife nut right for me style and ergonomics of the most camping! Karambit knives: folding and fixed blade Options activities and made with quality material for enhanced performance 430-446! The Recon 1 is the first knife we Review, it also features a right hand only, steel clip. Meat via bow, rifle, and premium steels are icing on the cake, non-slip,! Made from Glass best american made tactical folding knife Nylon and a 3.5″ blade composed of premium CPM-20CV.!, this is the best pocket knife since i was boy realize that everything can change for the in... Cerakote finish you purchase something it will help American gear Guide if you want something that is to.: best EDC knives under $ 30 hiking, backpacking, or work boots made in the Rockies, also! Silky smooth axis lock job due to the next generation of folding knives in 2020: the top for... Fox 599 Emerson Wave Karambit is thought to be art knives recommendations and to narrow down American made knife features.