The Best Tactical Knife

Pest Strategies

From self-defense to camping, hunting, and more, tactical knives are an extremely practical Everyday Carry (EDC) item. To aid your search for the best tactical knife, Pest Strategies researched related products on Amazon. After reviewing your local laws and regulations regarding carrying knives, read below to learn more about our top selections.

1 Best folding blade
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0013CJLT0

CRKT Tactical Knife

What We Like: If you’re looking for the power and stability of a traditional fixed blade tactical knife combined with the true tactical nature of a discreet foldable knife, this dual-hilt knife is a great option. It includes an automated safety liner for an extra layer of lock security and ample cutting power due to the triple-point serration blade design. Complete with a sturdy exterior and hanging clip intended for Everyday Carry, this modern iteration of a classic knife style is ready to serve your cutting needs.

2 Easiest to flip open
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CDM805E

Grand Way Tactical Knife

What We Like: Designed for use in dense urban environments and camping excursions alike, this tactical knife has a black oxide blade surface, an aluminum handle, a liner lock to help assure blade safety, and an attached exterior clip for convenient carrying. Whether you’re buying in bulk to supply a Boy Scout troop or considering an out-of-the-box stocking stuffer for the holidays, this tactical knife makes for a great gift and a reliable cutting tool.

3 Best handle
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IXG44U

Smith & Wesson Tactical Knife

What We Like: Complete with the stability and rigidity typical of a fixed blade and only slightly heavier than a typical foldable blade, this tactical knife is a versatile cutting tool worthy of EDC. It includes a built-in lanyard hole at the base of the handle and boasts a wide handguard at the top of the handle to prevent accidental cuts. Rubber and thermoplastic elastomers will give you a tacky grip that won’t slip, even when wet.

4 Best for survival
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EYCE9JW

Mossy Oak Tactical Knife

What We Like: When the going gets tough out in nature, make sure you’re prepared with a strong and sturdy survival knife. This tactical knife uses a stainless steel blade and rubberized handle allowing for precision cuts and exact movements, and the blade can be sharpened in as little as 10 seconds. When discretion isn’t a concern, its nylon carrying sheath will safely and securely store the knife and keep it protected from the elements.

5 Most versatile
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07R77WZ2R

KINGMAX Tactical Knife

What We Like: Whether you need to open a can, cut rope, or fix your bike, this convenient tactical knife lets you tackle a wide variety of issues on the go. Ideal for camping, around the house, or on the job as a maintenance technician, this multifunction tactical knife includes a nine-in-one screwdriver set so you can carry a mini toolbox right in your pocket. This tactical knife also makes for a great gift for the handyman or survivalist in your life.

Buying Guide

All tactical knives are useful, but there are differences to consider. For maximum effectiveness, think about how you’ll use your tactical knife in relation to these factors.

Materials: Tactical knife blades made with stainless steel, black titanium, or mil-spec steel offer a range of durability and maintenance needs — the higher quality the blade materials, the longer the blade will last, and the less often it needs to be sharpened. Rubberized grips for fixed blade knives should also be comfortable to the touch and last a long time without the feeling of losing grip.

Ease of use: Regardless of blade sharpness, a knife is only safe and effective if it can easily be opened, accessed, and put away for future use. A sturdy, grippy handle is important, as well as the blade deployment mechanism, which in many cases, is foldable and “flippable.” Most pocket knives and tactical knives don’t use a retractable blade design because the mechanism can easily get stuck.

Blade type: Fixed blade and foldable blade designs are common amongst the best tactical knives. Fixed knife blades are inherently more stable and durable than their foldable counterparts, but foldable blades are lightweight, safer, and generally more concealable for tactical use. Blades also come in a straight edge, a serrated edge, or a partially serrated edge. Serrated blades are very useful for cutting through tough surfaces or objects, acting as “teeth.”

Multi-tool functionality: Many tactical knives solely consist of a blade for their functionality, but there are plenty of multi-tool options akin to a standard Swiss Army knife. Most single-blade, standard tactical knives include a small hole in the handle design to fit through a carabiner or string of rope.

FAQs

What are tactical knives used for?

Designed for extreme situations like self-defense in an urban environment, or survival in a rugged, remote environment, tactical knives are usually compact and lightweight, able to easily fit in a large pocket or backpack. Invoking military aesthetics in their design, tactical knives are useful for combat, food preparation, whittling, or nearly any application when a knife is needed.

How do I maintain my tactical knife?

To get the most use out of your tactical knife, make sure that any grooves, crevices, locking mechanisms, and blade surfaces are clean and free from debris. Use a dedicated blade sharpener tool to keep the knife working like new, and fold it or use the carrying case or sheath when the knife is not in use.

Do I have to conceal my tactical knife when carrying it on my person?

Before you travel or visit an attraction, check your local laws and regulations regarding knives and weapons. Unlike a handgun, in many cases, it’s not necessary or required by law to conceal your tactical knife if you’re carrying it on your person. Foldable knives are easily and discreetly secured onto a pocket by using the exterior clip on the handle of the knife.

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.