Tested: The Best American-Made Pocket Knives

If you really want to stack the deck in your favor when building out your EDC loadout, you can seldom go wrong with a pocket knife made here in the United States. After all, “USA-made” is often synonymous with “superbly built” — and American craftsmen are keen on continuing that tradition. It is with that in mind, specifically, that we’ve put together the following list of our picks for the best USA-made pocket knives currently on the market.

Selection & Testing

When seeking out the best USA-made everyday carry knives, we began our search by first selecting a host of main categories before making several picks for each. From there, we scoured the market, scrutinizing areas such as design, dimensions, and material selection. This allowed us to generate a shortlist of potential candidates that we suspected may represent some of the very best American-made EDC knives. With our shortlist in hand, we then proceeded to get our hands on an example of each knife on that list — ultimately allowing us to put each one through a hands-on testing process. 

Our hands-on testing process including a paper-cutting test to judge each knife’s factory edge, a cardboard-cutting test, and a thick poster-tube-cutting test to judge hard-use capabilities. In order to get a more complete sense of each knife’s overall performance and user experience, each knife took its turn spending several days in my pocket, allowing me to put every one through a myriad of tasks. Additionally, our hands-on testing process also helped to reveal other areas such as overall ergonomics and build quality. Once armed with the information from our hands-on testing process, we were then able to narrow our shortlist down to a final selection of what that testing revealed to be the very best made-in-America everyday carry knives. 

Buck 112 Ranger

Best Vintage-Style Knife: The Buck Knives 112 Ranger is about as tried-and-true as pocket knives come. First introduced in 1972 before going on the market two-years-later in ’74, the 112 was originally lauded for its ability to take-on hard-use tasks that up until that point, were primarily reserved for fixed blade designs. This was made possible thanks to the 112 Ranger’s ultra-sturdy lock-back mechanism. Spanning 7.25” overall, the 112 Ranger is constructed around a ebony handle with brass bolsters and matching brass pins. Mated to the back-lock-equipped handle is a 3.0-inch-long, 0.11-inch-thick clip point blade forged in 420 high-carbon steel. 

While the 112 Ranger’s ergonomics are admittedly not quite as dialed-in as the handles on most contemporary pocket knife designs, the thing still feels fantastic, nestling into the hand perfectly and affording a surprising amount of confidence and control. The lock-back provides a super secure lockup, and the shape of the 112’s clip point blade also makes it exceedingly utilitarian, with the pointy-profile allowing it to lend itself to both hunting and skinning, as well as general day-to-day tasks. Considering the materials and overall build quality, this USA-made knife also affords pretty terrific value. Buck also sells the 112 in a plethora of different finishes, materials, and versions — including a more modern automatic variant. 

While there’s no denying that Buck’s 110 Folding Hunter is more iconic than the 112, we’ve opted for the 112 as its dimensions allow it to lend itself a bit better to everyday carry — with a more compact 3.0″ blade length and an overall length of 7.25″ versus the 110’s 3.75″ blade and 8.50″ OAL. It’s also a bit lighter at 6.19oz versus the 110’s 7.50oz weight. Despite its smaller footprint, the 112 Ranger maintains practically all of the winning features of the 110, in a more pocketable and EDC-friendly package.

Though it still holds up surprisingly well by today’s standards, there are some aspects of the 112 that are a bit long in the tooth — a fact that’s frankly unsurprising considering the design first debuted some five decades ago. For starters, its ergonomics are a bit lacking compared to contemporary pocket knife designs, and at 6.19oz, it’s one of the heaviest everyday carry knives on the market. Another strike against it is the fact that the 112 requires two hands to open —though it can be closed using just one hand. It’s also devoid of a pocket clip, though does ship with an included leather sheath.

Kershaw Launch 18

Best Automatic Knife: Made in the knife-making hotbed of Tualatin, Oregon, the Kershaw Launch 18 is a compact yet thoroughly utilitarian automatic knife that punches well above its weight. Measuring 6.75” overall, the Launch 18 features a machined aluminum handle that houses an auto-firing 2.75” drop point blade made from CPM 154. Tipping the scales at 2.29oz, this Launch model boasts a push-button deployment that also doubles as a button-lock. What’s more, not only is it compact, but at less than 2.50oz, it’s also incredibly lightweight. 

As a big fan of Kershaw’s bevy of existing USA-made auto knives from its Launch series, I had high expectations for the 18-spec — expectations that the Oregon outfit managed to surpass with the Launch 18. Though it’s admittedly a bit smaller than the full-sized folders on this list, the Launch 18’s 2.75” blade length makes it just big enough to tackle the vast majority of day-to-day cutting tasks — plus its automatic deployment gives it a decidedly tactical air, while still remaining conducive to everyday carry. I also really like how the Launch 18’s design is devoid of any rear pins or backspacer, instead seeing this element incorporated into the front and rear handle slabs.

More importantly, said handle affords stellar ergonomics despite its rather diminutive size. Jimping at the base of the bottom of the handle and at the base of the blade’s spine further enhance grip and control, too. The bullseye-style firing button is also a subtle touch, but one that I really liked. And, like every one of Kershaw’s Launch auto knives, the Launch 18 has a super snappy opening action that deploys quickly, without the spring being so powerful that it feels like the knife wants to jump out of my hand. 

After using Kershaw’s Launch 18 for an extended period, I only came across a few pretty minor gripes. My first issue with the knife is the fact that — unlike many of Benchmade’s auto models — the Launch 18 doesn’t feature any kind of safety mechanism to prevent accidental deployments. My second issue is with the thickness of the blade. At 0.12”, it isn’t super thin, but could almost certainly benefit from being slightly beefier — with the thing ideally clocking in at somewhere between 0.14” and 0.15”. My third and final issue with this auto EDC knife doesn’t pertain to its performance or user experience, but rather from the fact that the Launch 18 is illegal to carry in quite a few regions — including where we’re based in California. 

Benchmade Bugout 535

Best Customizable Knife: Since its debut in 2017, the Benchmade Bugout has quickly become one of the most lauded and legendary EDC knives of all time. Its utilitarian nature, high-quality materials, and lightweight and low-profile form have collectively made the Bugout a must-have for any serious everyday carry enthusiasts or knife collectors. Weighing in at a decidedly svelte 1.50oz, the Bugout spans just under 7.50” overall. Its low-profile design is brought to life using a steel liner sandwiched between a set of grippy, lightweight Grivory scales. Fitted with Benchmade’s revolutionary AXIS lock, the handle comes paired with a super versatile 3.235” drop point blade forged in CPM S30V — unequivocally one of the best blade steels for EDC use. 

The Benchmade Bugout offers ample durability and utility in a compact and lightweight package. For its size and weight, Benchmade’s mighty Bugout offers a pretty insane amount of utility. In typical Benchmade fashion, the build quality and craftsmanship is top-notch. The deployment action is also perfectly-dialed-in, and the AXIS lock is about as trusty as they come — as evidenced by the enormous slew of knife brands that have delivered their own similar AXIS-style locks following Benchmade’s patent expiring a few years back.

Not only does Benchmade offer the Bugout in a wide range of color options, but it also produces a few super top-shelf versions — such as an aerospace-grade aluminum and M390 variant and a carbon fiber and CPM S90V-spec. It doesn’t end there, as the thing can also be customized using Benchmade’s online configurator. Additionally, the immense popularity of this knife has ultimately resulted in a absolutely massive selection of available aftermarket upgrades for the Bugout, ranging from custom scales to thumb-studs to back-spacers. 

With an MSRP hovering around the $200 mark, one would be forgiven for thinking that the Bugout doesn’t afford the best bang-for-your-buck, though, all-things-considered, it actually does offer pretty decent value, with its top-notch materials and craftsmanship. Further bolstering its value is the fact this knife — like all Benchmade blades — not only comes backed by a lifetime warranty, but its MSRP also includes Benchmade’s LifeSharp Service, which will clean, tune, and sharpen the knife, for free, for life — all you have to do is pay postage. 

As one of the best EDC knives of all time, my gripes surrounding the Bugout were few and far between. While there’s no denying that the Bugout is a true workhorse, it’s blade is definitely on the thinner side at just 0.09-inches-thick. This isn’t a problem for 95% of day-to-day tasks, though I’d be extremely reluctant to try to hammer the thing through a log. Additionally, anyone familiar with Benchmade’s knives will no doubt be aware of how incredibly hardwearing its lightweight Grivory handle construction is. Having said that, it does lack the heavier, more robust feel that a lot of knife enthusiasts appreciate — myself very much included. Those minor complaints aside, the Bugout truly is one of the best everyday carry knives that money can currently buy. 

Spyderco Para Military 2

Best Tactical/Self-Defense Knife: First released in 2010, the Spyderco Para Military 2 — or “PM2” — is another incredibly iconic folder that resides in the pantheon of legendary, best-of-all-time EDC knives. Definitely on the larger side for everyday carry — a characteristic that affords it with a bit of extra utility at the cost of being just a bit less pocketable — Spyderco’s PM2 clocks in at 8.29” overall, 3.47” of which is comprised of a beefy, 0.145-inch-thick blade forged in top-shelf CPM S45VN. Handcrafted in Colorado at Spyderco’s headquarters, the Para Military 2 is constructed around a G-10 handle fitted with a Compression Lock. 

While it’s got great materials and build quality, what really makes the Spyderco Para Military 2 so special is its design. The thing offers a truly unparalleled mix of tactical capabilities and EDC-readiness, with the knife lending itself to both self-defense and workhorse duties — and seriously excelling at both. As always, Spyderco’s build quality is just fantastic — and no doubt plays a decent role in the PM2’s somewhat still yet wholyly justifiable pricing. Another one of my favorite parts of the PM2 is no doubt is absolutely stellar ergonomics. Whether carried normally or held in a reverse grip, the knife affords a ridiculous amount of grip and control, ultimately making it highly conducive to hard-use tasks and self-defense use alike. 

I also really appreciate how Spyderco has consistently bestowed the second-generation Para Military with a steady stream of updates over the last decade and a half, from minor details like blacking out its hardware to more substantial tweaks like upgrading from CPM S30V to more modern S45VN — ultimately allowing the PM2 to remain relevant and competitive despite its basic design being almost 15-years-old. 

Just like with Benchmade’s Bugout, the immense and continued popularity of the PM2 has spawned a frankly unparalleled selection of available aftermarket parts and upgrades, making it ridiculously easy to personalize and customize your Para Military 2. As a bit of a Spyderco fanboy, I also thoroughly appreciate how many of the brand’s hallmark features are found on the PM2, from its iconic leaf-shaped blade to the company’s signature compression lock to its round thumb-hole opening in the blade. 

When viewed through the lens of being an everyday carry knife, there are a few minor issues with the PM2 — all of which stem from its tactically-inspired design. For an EDC knife, it’s pretty big, at nearly 8.50” overall. What’s more, it also has a fairly aggressive look to it. At the end of the day, I’d argue these gripes aren’t all that important, as these same qualities are also what make it such a reliable workhorse and CQC weapon — it doesn’t just look like a combat-ready knife, it is one. 

Microtech MSI

Best Workhorse Knife: Since its inception in ’94, Microtech has developed a reputation for producing some of the most high-quality, combat-ready — and quite frankly deadly — tactical folders, autos, and OTFs. With details that include every element and component being made entirely in-house even down to the precision-machined hardware, there’s no denying the ridiculously high-quality of the brand’s knives, though its world-class blades unsurprisingly come at a steep price. And this, collectively, is what made the Microtech MSI’s release  in early 2023 such a big deal, as it pretty hugely deviates from the North Carolina company’s typical MO, as a purpose-built everyday carry workhorse that’s sold at a competitive, affordable price — all while staying true to Microtech’s principles, excellent craftsmanship, knack of innovation, and use of thoroughly top-shelf materials.

Short for “Microtech Standard Issue,” the MSI spans 8.90” and is comprised of a polymer handle (also offered in G-10 and carbon fiber for a higher price) mated to a 3.85-inch-long modified sheepsfoot blade forged in M390MK — a custom-formulated blade steel born out of a collaboration between Microtech and Böhler. The first Microtech knife to feature this all-new mechanism, the MSI is fitted with the brand’s new RAM-LOK — a proprietary bar lock-style design that’s made from one solid piece, and consists of a fully-caged mechanism with a closed-spring strut and an ambidextrous version of Microtech’s X Button slider on both sides of the knife. I also really like how you can see the whole thing work when looking down at the spine of the knife. 

The modified sheepsfoot profile gives the MSI both immense slashing and piercing abilities, and the beefy 0.15-inch thickness of the blade allows it to stand up to even extreme hard-use tasks. I’ve personally hammered mine through small logs before, and the blade remained perfectly centered after. What’s more, it’s M390MK construction also enables it to retain a razor-sharp edge for an extended period. Additionally, every new Microtech knife I’ve ever had the pleasure of using has always arrived with an insanely sharp factory edge, and the MSI is far from an exception in this regard. And, considering all you get for less-than-$200 — outstanding build quality, super premium materials, and a whole-lot-of-knife — the MSI is an absolute steal in my opinion. 

The MSI is an objectively terrific knife, though it’s not perfect — at least not for everyday carry. Not unlike the Spyderco PM2, the MSI is definitely on the larger side for EDC, and is no doubt pretty aggressive looking — though I personally love the way it looks. And, while the M390MK’s immense hardness allows it to hold an edge incredibly well, it also makes it somewhat difficult to sharpen when the time finally does come to do so — or at the very least makes it a longer, more involved process than sharpening steels like D2 and 154CM. 

Zero Tolerance 0235

Best Slip Joint Knife: Penned by legendary Danish knife designer Jens Ansø, the Zero Tolerance 0235 is a modern, top-shelf take on a classic non-locking slipjoint knife. This sleek slipjoint boasts a detent-equipped carbon fiber handle with a blue-anodized aluminum backspacer and a nail-nick-opening spear point blade crafted from super premium CPM 20CV. Weighing only 1.80oz, the knife clocks in at a compact 6.30” overall and sports a 2.60” blade length. Far more than just a sleek exercise in design, Ansø’s 0235 manages to afford more than its fair share of utility, punching well over its weight for its size — even if its non-locking blade does lessen its workhorse capabilities. 

The 0235’s carbon fiber handle is rugged yet lightweight, and frankly looks amazing, with a basket-style weave front and back, and the carbon’s layering on display when viewed from the side. The 0235 is also just a really unique and well-designed take on a modern slipjoint in pretty much every regard. What’s more, the knife’s handle doesn’t just have an idiosyncratic shape to it, but it also manages to afford surprisingly decent grip, despite being on the smaller side. And, though it is non-locking, the 0235 nonetheless uses a fairly robust detent setup that provides a decent amount of resistance.

The fact that the Jens Ansø design was brought to life using a spare-no-expense material selection is also no doubt a major plus. I also really appreciate how the lanyard hole has been neatly integrated into the back-spacer. At less than 2oz, it’s also super lightweight and makes for a great everyday carry knife. The knife does require two hands to open — though can be closed with one hand by pressing the spine (unsharpened side) of the blade against the back of my leg. 

Unfortunately, the two-handed opening setup wasn’t the only complaint I had with the 0235 — at least when viewed for everyday carry and work use. For starters, with a non-locking blade, I also wouldn’t feel particularly comfortable using the 0235 for hard-use tasks, though I also don’t think that’s what it was designed for. Additionally, like Microtech’s M390MK construction, the 0235’s super premium 20CV steel does a remarkable job retaining an edge, but ain’t so fun to sharpen — though luckily with 20CV, you won’t have to do so often. Lastly, the size and stiffness of the 0235’s pocket clip made it difficult for me to remove it from my pocket — though loosening it just a tad remedied this, plus it broke in a bit over time. Gripes aside, it’s still a fantastic knife — and is very much on this list for a reason, or frankly many of them. 

Hinderer XM-18

Best Small Batch Knife: Made in Shreve, Ohio, the Hinderer XM-18 is proof that boutique, small-batch production really can allow for an even higher level of craftsmanship and quality control. Over-built and over-engineered — albeit in the best way possible — the XM-18 is crafted around a frame-locking titanium handle and liner with a heavily-textured G-10 scale on its show side. Spanning 8.25”, this full-sized folder features a 3.50” “Spanto” blade with a 0.165-inch-thick CPM S45VN construction. 

Not unlike Spyderco’s Para Military 2, the XM-18 does an extraordinary job of balancing workhorse and hard use capabilities with CQC-effectiveness and combat-readiness. Whether carried normally or held in a reverse grip, the XM-18’s ergonomics are pretty next-level, affording a ton of control and inspiring a ton of confidence. Jimping all over the handle further bolsters grip and control. The unique blade profile makes it highly effective at cutting and piercing, plus its super calculated silhouette and shape sport a heavily-reinforced tip that further ups both its workhorse and CQC capabilities. 

As previously mentioned, the thing is super overbuilt and over-engineered, and has a heavy, beefy, and unmistakably hardwearing and high-quality feel to it. The way the thumb stud hugs up against the top of the handle as the blade is opened is really impressive, and no doubt speaks to the ridiculous tolerances used when making the knife. I initially wasn’t fond of the knife sporting a G-10 scale only on its show side, though after extensively using the knife, this detail increasingly grew on me, as the texturing on the show-side scale really does bolster grip in a very noticeable way. Hinderer Knives also produces the XM-18 in a huge slew of variants, plus there’s a decently-sized aftermarket scene for these knives. 

There were only a few issues I had with this Hinderer design, and they were all on the petty and minor side. At over 5.5oz, it’s definitely on the heavier side — though I actually appreciate the heft of the XM-18. This is admittedly a super minor gripe too, but I don’t love that the XM-18 ships with a pocket clip in the tip-down configuration — though this is a super quick and easy fix, as it can be switched to tip-up thanks to predrilled holes. And, while it has zero impact on the XM-18’s user experience or performance — both of which are stellar by the way — the knife is expensive, and can sometimes be difficult to get (at least in the version you want) in between drops. 

Chris Reeve Knives Sebenza 31 Small

Most Iconic Knife: What the Porsche 911 is to cars and the Rolex Submariner is to watches, the Chris Reeve Knives Sebenza is to everyday carry knives. The CRK Sebenza 31 is the very definition of a workhorse everyday carry knife that not only offers incredible performance, but is also responsible for ushering in a host of now-common traits and features found on modern EDC knives — including the framelock, also known the as “Reeve Integral Lock.” Beautifully crafted from 6Al4V titanium, the small-spec Sebenza 31 spans 6.875″ overall and sports a 2.94” blade forged in CPM S45VN. 

The Chris Reeve Sebenza 31 didn’t become an EDC legend on accident. The knife has a lot going for it. A major part of what makes the knife so special is its overall craftsmanship and build quality, both of which are just stellar. Every minute detail is just thoroughly considered and perfected executed. The very light texturing on the grade 5 titanium handle slabs afford a super matte finish that also lightly bolsters grip. Even the small version of the Sebenza 31 is an undeniable workhorse of a knife too, with a 0.13” blade thickness that makes it just beefy enough to stand up to hard-use tasks. 

Ultimately, the Sebenza 31 isn’t quite as impressive today as it was upon its debut, though it’s still a terrific knife with great performance, durability, and, above all, craftsmanship. Plus, you have to appreciate it for what it is — and that’s a highly-influential, envelop-pushing everyday carry knife that managed to raise the bar and set the standard in a host of areas that we now largely take for granted. And, while it’s admittedly subjective, I really appreciate the knife’s contrasting blue-anodized thumb-stud, back-spacer, and lanyard pin. With a starting price of $425 that only increases with handle inlay options or the larger size (or both), the thing doesn’t come cheap. 

Why Buy American

It would be asinine to suggest that American soil is the only place you can find well-built gear. That doesn’t change in the case of everyday carry knives. In fact, there have been positive strides made all around the EDC and knifemaking worlds and there are tremendous craftspeople all around the planet. Having said that, there are also a lot of reasons you know you can trust American craftsmanship — guarantees that you might not find elsewhere. Below, we’d like to illuminate some of the many reasons you should consider buying a USA-made blade for your next EDC cutting tool.

Expectations/Reputation: It’s hard to say which came first in the United States: the quality of craftsmanship or the public perception of it. The truth is, they probably developed simultaneously over time. The real truth is, however, that it doesn’t matter. The fact remains that USA-made goods have a reputation for being well-built and, as a result, that’s what people expect out of them. And American craftspeople are keen to keep that reputation, as it means people will continue to seek out their goods and keep them in business. Thusly, it’s in the best interests of American makers to continue the tradition of well-built goods. It might be a chicken-and-egg situation, but the true origin doesn’t really matter.

Regulations: As far as labor laws are concerned, the United States has some of the strictest in the world. This ensures that craftspeople are well cared for, paid appropriately, not abused on-the-job, etc. To some, this means that USA-made gear is simply more expensive — but we’d suggest it also means greater quality, oversight, etc. Furthermore, materials are also subject to higher scrutiny on U.S. soil — leaving less room for corner-cutting and, thusly, resulting in a better overall quality tip to toe. Yes, the laws and regulations are rigid, but that means the end result is elevated that much higher. It also encourages craftspeople at the top of their game to seek out employment with U.S. companies. After all, people that craft the best also want to be employed by the (subjective) best.

Patriotism: While it probably shouldn’t be the sole reason to seek out USA-made gear of any kind, national pride can definitely influence a decision — and Americans are often quite full of pride. After all, why wouldn’t you want to support the hardworking people of your country of origin? Americans have a penchant for thinking of their country as the best in the world, so it makes sense to purchase goods that originate within its borders. After all, what’s good for America is often also what’s good for Americans.

What To Consider When Shopping

There’s not shortage of areas one can consider when buying an American-made EDC knife, though there are eight that pretty much trump all others in terms of importance — all of which we’ll be breaking down directly below. 

Blade Steel: The type of blade steel used on a knife will play a massive role in the steel’s hardness, toughness, and ability to hold an edge. It’s also worth noting that the more premium blade steel that do a better job of retaining an edge are also harder to sharpen when the time finally comes to do so. 

Blade Shape: The shape of the blade will play an enormous role in how efficiently the knife’s slicing or pierces. Additionally, serrated or partially-serrated edges can also pretty substantially impact performance. 

Blade Dimensions: When looking at the blade on a USA-made EDC knife, you’ll want to not only review length, but also cutting edge, and blade thickness — the latter of which plays a huge role in determining the knife’s ability to stand up to hard-use tasks. 

Weight: Because these knives are intended to be carried on a daily basis — presumably with a pocketful of other gear like flashlights, pens, wallets, etc — it’s fairly important to consider the weight and heft of any EDC knife. Typically speaking, 3oz to 5oz is about average, with anything north of that being considered heavy and anything south of that being fairly light. 

Handle Material: The type of construction used to craft a knife’s handle will play a key role in both its durability and level of grip — though its shape and ergonomics are also fairly crucial here too. 

Overall Length: You’ll know doubt want to review the overall length of any knife you’re considering — i.e. the length of the knife with its blade open, from the bottom of the handle to the tip of the blade. 

Locking Mechanism: The mechanism that each knife uses the lock the blade in place is another crucial area to consider and review when shopping. Fortunately, most modern locking mechanisms are fairly robust, though some are easier to use than others. There are also non-locking pocket knives such as friction folders and slip joints. 

Blade Deployment: Just as important as what keeps the blade locked in place is the manner in which the blade is deployed from the handle. This includes everything from thumb-studs to flipper tabs to auto-firing sliders or buttons, to thumb-hole openers, or a combination of any of the above. 

Tested: The Best Tactical Knives

If you appreciate knives like the Spyderco PM2 and Hinderer XM-18, you’ll almost certainly have proclivity for the knives featured in our guide to the best tactical knives for everyday carry.