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Folding Knives

Folding Knives: 18,000+ EDC, Tactical & Collector Pocket Knives — Every Lock, Every Steel, Every Budget

Knifeworks carries over 18,000 folding knives across every category — from daily carry flippers in premium steels like CPM-MagnaCut and S35VN, to frame lock collectors, button lock tacticals, traditional slipjoints, and assisted openers. Whether you're looking for your first quality pocket knife or adding to a serious collection, the right folding knife is here. Benchmade's AXIS Lock, Spyderco's Compression Lock, Demko's Shark Lock, Vosteed's Vanchor, and dozens of other proven mechanisms are all represented. Use the filters to narrow by brand, blade steel, lock type, blade length, and price. Not sure where to start? Call our team at 888-225-9775 — we carry knives because we love them.

EDC Folders Tactical Flippers Assisted Opening
Automatic Folders Gentleman's Carry Collector & Limited
Under $50 Made in USA  
  • Byrd Cara Cara 2 (BY03PSBK2) 3.77" 8Cr13MoV Satin Drop Point Partially Serrated, Black Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon Handle

    Byrd Cara Cara 2 - Black FRN (3.77" 8Cr13MoV) BY03PSBK2

    Byrd Cara Cara 2 (BY03PSBK2) 3.77" 8Cr13MoV Satin Drop Point Partially Serrated, Black Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon Handle Already one of the best values in our popular byrd line, the Cara Cara 2 Lightweight has been completely reengineered to yield the...

    $55.00 $41.25
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  • Byrd Cara Cara 2 (BY03PBK2) 3.77" 8Cr13MoV Satin Drop Point Partially Serrated, Black Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon Handle

    Byrd Cara Cara 2 - Black FRN (3.77" 8Cr13MoV) BY03PBK2

    Byrd Cara Cara 2 (BY03PBK2) 3.77" 8Cr13MoV Satin Drop Point Partially Serrated, Black Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon Handle The Cara Cara 2 Lightweight from our popular byrd line has been reengineered to bring you the new and improved Cara Cara 2. With...

    $55.00 $41.25
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  • Byrd Meadowlark 2 (BY04P2) 2.97" 8Cr13MoV Satin Drop Point Plain Blade, Gray Stainless Steel Handle

    Byrd Meadowlark 2 - Brushed SS (2.97" 8Cr13MoV) BY04P2

    Byrd Meadowlark 2 (BY04P2) 2.97" 8Cr13MoV Satin Drop Point Plain Blade, Gray Stainless Steel Handle For those who prefer the heft and style of stainless steel handles, the new, improved Meadowlark SS is sure to be a hit. Its satin-finished stainless...

    $60.00 $45.00
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  • Moki Glory, Quince wood handles

    Moki Glory, Quince wood handles

    Moki Glory, Quince wood handlesMoki Glory. 3 3/8" closed lockback. AUS-8 stainless mirror polished blade. Quince wood handles. Brushed stainless bolster. Lanyard hole. Nylon pouch.

    $178.95 $121.99
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  • Bryd Hawkbill (BY22SBK) 2.9" 8Cr13MoV Satin Hawkbill Serrated Blade, Black Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon Handle

    Byrd Hawkbill - Black FRN (2.9" 8Cr13MoV) BY22SBK

    Bryd Hawkbill (BY22SBK) 2.9" 8Cr13MoV Satin Hawkbill Serrated Blade, Black Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon Handle The BY22 byrd folder has a Hawkbill-shaped blade.  This distinctive curved cutting tool's claw-like tip overwhelms material in its cutting...

    $52.00 $39.00
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  • Mcusta Susu-Take Money Clip Mcusta Susu-Take Money Clip

    Mcusta Susu-Take Money Clip

    Mcusta Susu-Take Money Clip. 3" closed. 2 1/4" AUS-8 stainless blade. Polished stainless money clip is the back handle (shown above). The stainless steel handle has a slip-joint mechanism for simple operation. Red pakkawood front handle. A floating loop...

    $119.95 $78.95
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  • Byrd Robin 2 (BY10PBK2) 2.4" 8Cr13MoV Satin Drop Point Plain Blade, Black Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon Handle

    Byrd Robin 2 - Black FRN (2.4" 8Cr13MoV) BY10PBK2

    Byrd Robin 2 (BY10PBK2) 2.4" 8Cr13MoV Satin Drop Point Plain Blade, Black Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon Handle Much of the byrd Knife Line is being upgraded through a process called C.Q.I. or constant quality improvement.  As the line broadens,...

    $49.00 $36.75
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  • Byrd Tern (BY23GP) 2.75" 8Cr13Mov Satin Drop Point Plain Blade, Black G-10 Handle

    Byrd Tern Folder - Blk G-10 ( 2.75" 8Cr13Mov) BY23GP

    Byrd Tern (BY23GP) 2.75" 8Cr13Mov Satin Drop Point Plain Blade, Black G-10 Handle The BY23 byrd Tern is a non-locking folder. Folding knives with blades that don?t lock open are in many cases the only legal-carry pocketknife option in countries and...

    $47.00 $35.25
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  • Byrd Robin 2 (BY10GP2) 2.4" 8Cr13MoV Satin Drop Point Plain Blade, Black G-10 Handle

    Byrd Robin 2 - Black G-10 (2.4" 8Cr13MoV) BY10GP2

    Byrd Robin 2 (BY10GP2) 2.4" 8Cr13MoV Satin Drop Point Plain Blade, Black G-10 HandleMuch of the byrd Knife Line is being upgraded through a process called C.Q.I. or constant quality improvement.  As the line broadens, existing models are receiving...

    $63.00 $47.25
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  • Mantis Folding Pry II, G10 Handles, Combo Edge

    Mantis Folding Pry II, G10 Handles, Combo Edge

    Mantis Folding Pry II, G10 Handles, Combo EdgeMantis Folding Pry II. 4 3/4" closed linerlock. 3 1/4" black finish stainless partially serrated blade with Besh Wedge. Black G-10 handles. Integrated glass breaker. Lanyard hole. Reversible black finish...

    $119.95 $79.95
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  • Mantis Folding Pry II, G10 Handles, Plain Edge

    Mantis Folding Pry II, G10 Handles, Plain Edge

    Mantis Folding Pry II, G10 Handles, Plain EdgeMantis Folding Pry II. 4 3/4" closed linerlock. 3 1/4" black finish stainless standard edge blade with Besh Wedge. Black G-10 handles. Integrated glass breaker. Lanyard hole. Reversible black finish stainless...

    $119.95 $79.95
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  • Mantis MT-3, Black Plastic Handle, ComboEdge

    Mantis MT-3, Black Plastic Handle, ComboEdge

    Mantis MT-3, Black Plastic Handle, ComboEdgeFeatures a 2.75 in. combo edge blade of 420HC steel and a 4.00 in. black plastic handle.SpecificationsOverall Length (inches): 6.75 Blade Length (inches): 2.75 Blade Material: 420HC Blade Detail: Combo Edge...

    $29.95 $19.95
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  • Mantis Civilianaire Coin Knife, Demon Edition

    Mantis Civilianaire Coin Knife, Demon Edition

    Mantis Civilianaire Coin Knife, Demon EditionSpecificationsOverall Length 2.125" Blade Length 0.750" Blade Material Stainless Damascus Blade Style Hawkbill Handle Material Bi-Layered G-100 Fiberweave Lock Style Friction...

    $50.95 $39.95
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  • Mantis MT-2HC, Black Plastic Handle, Plain

    Mantis MT-2HC, Black Plastic Handle, Plain

    Mantis MT-2HC, Black Plastic Handle, PlainFeatures a 3.00 in blade of 420HC steel, and a 4.00 in. black plastic handle.SpecificationsOverall Length (inches): 7.00 Blade Length (inches): 3.00 Blade Material: 420HC Blade Detail: Plain Handle Material:...

    $35.22 $26.95
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  • Moki Lockback Amber Bone Stag, Stainless Blade

    Moki Lockback Amber Bone Stag, Stainless Blade

    Moki Lockback Amber Bone Stag, Stainless BladeMoki Lockback Amber Bone Stag. 3 3/4" closed. Mirror polished VG-10 stainless blade. Amber bone stag handles with brushed stainless bolster. Lanyard hole. Genuine leather sheath.

    $384.99 $259.99
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  • Mantis Civilianaire Coin Knife, Angel Edition

    Mantis Civilianaire Coin Knife, Angel Edition

    Mantis Civilianaire Coin Knife, Angel EditionFeaturesCNC Machined company logo in handle for added gripSpecificationsOverall Length 2.125" Blade Length 0.750" Blade Material Stainless Damascus Blade Style Hawkbill Handle Material ...

    $59.95 $39.95
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  • Moki Mini Pendant, White & Black M.O.P., Plain

    Moki Mini Pendant, White & Black M.O.P., Plain

    Moki Mini Pendant, White & Black M.O.P., PlainMoki Small Folder. 1 13/16" closed. AUS-6 stainless blade. Polished stainless handles with checkered white mother of pearl and black mother of pearl inlays. Keyring with lanyard. Leather slip pouch...

    $164.95 $112.99
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18,000+ Folding Knives In Stock The deepest folding knife selection online — EDC flippers, frame locks, liner locks, button locks, traditional slipjoints, and assisted openers from over 100 brands. Every lock type, every steel, every budget.
Authorized Dealer — Full Warranty Every folding knife is sourced through authorized dealer channels. Benchmade LifeSharp, Spyderco lifetime warranty, Demko manufacturer warranty — all valid from day one. No grey market, no warranty voids.
Fast Shipping from Louisiana Most in-stock orders ship same or next business day from Columbia, Louisiana. Free ground shipping on orders over $99. Your next carry knife ships fast.
Expert Help at 888-225-9775 Not sure which lock, steel, or brand is right for you? Our team carries and uses these knives. Call, email, or browse — we'll help you find exactly the right folding knife for your carry and budget.

The Complete Folding Knife Buyer's Guide

Everything you need to choose the right folding knife — lock types explained, blade steel guide, blade shape guide, handle materials compared, and a use-case quick reference. Whether you're buying your first quality pocket knife or adding to a collection, this guide covers the decisions that matter. Click any topic to expand.

Folding Knife Lock Types: Frame Lock, Liner Lock, AXIS Lock, Button Lock & More Explained+

The lock mechanism is the most important mechanical specification on a folding knife — it determines how the blade stays open under load, how it closes, and whether it can be operated one-handed. Here are the most common lock types across the Knifeworks catalog:

Lock Type How It Works Brands Best For
AXIS Lock Spring-loaded bar rides in a channel — deployed from either side of the handle, ambidextrous, very strong Benchmade (patented) Smooth ambidextrous one-hand closing; extremely reliable under hard use
Compression Lock Liner bears against the blade's spine — closing force increases lock engagement; no fingers in blade path Spyderco (patented) Maximum security, one-hand operation; highly regarded by enthusiasts
Frame Lock The titanium handle frame itself flexes to lock the blade tang; no separate spring required Chris Reeve, Hinderer, Bestech, Vosteed, many others Strong, slim profile, premium feel; popular in titanium EDC folders
Liner Lock A separate spring steel liner flexes to lock the blade tang; most common production lock Nearly universal — CJRB, EIKONIC, many production brands Reliable and widely understood; lightest lock format for G10/carbon fiber handles
Button Lock Spring-loaded button on the spine depresses to release the blade; fast and intuitive Vosteed (Raccoon), Pro-Tech, Benchmade (some models) Fast one-hand closing; positive lockup; great for frequent users
Lockback Rocker bar on the spine snaps into the blade tang; classic design Spyderco, Cold Steel (Tri-Ad), Buck, many traditional brands Time-tested reliability; Cold Steel's Tri-Ad variant is one of the strongest lockbacks ever made
Shark Lock Spine-mounted fin engages blade spine; doubles as thumb ramp; fingers never enter blade path Demko Knives (patented) Intuitive one-hand operation; the safest closing motion of any lock type
First Folding Knife? Choose by Lock Type First. Before brand, steel, or blade shape — choose your lock type. If you want the easiest one-hand closing: AXIS Lock or button lock. If you want maximum security under hard use: Compression Lock or Shark Lock. If you want traditional carry or legal simplicity: slipjoint. Everything else is refinement of that decision.
Folding Knife Blade Steel Guide: S35VN, MagnaCut, M390, 20CV, D2, 154CM & More+

Blade steel determines how long your knife stays sharp, how tough it is against chipping, and how much maintenance it requires. Here are the steels you'll encounter most across the Knifeworks folding knife catalog:

Steel Edge Retention Toughness Corrosion Resistance Best For
CPM-MagnaCut ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ Best all-around premium steel — exceptional in all three categories simultaneously; found on Benchmade, Pro-Tech, Spyderco flagship models
M390 / CPM-20CV ★★★★★ ★★★☆☆ ★★★★★ Maximum edge retention and corrosion resistance; collector and premium EDC tier; requires diamond sharpening
CPM-S35VN ★★★★☆ ★★★★★ ★★★★☆ Premium production standard — outstanding toughness, excellent for hard-use daily carry; sharpens on standard equipment
CPM-S30V ★★★★☆ ★★★★☆ ★★★★☆ Proven mid-premium stainless — reliable, balanced, widely used by Spyderco and others across the mid-tier catalog
154CM
Handle Materials: Titanium, G10, Carbon Fiber, Micarta & Aluminum Compared+
MaterialWeightGrip TextureDurabilityBest For
TitaniumLightSmooth to lightly textured; anodizes to many colorsExcellent — corrosion-proof, non-magneticPremium EDC, collectors, frame lock builds; the prestige handle material
G10LightAggressive — excellent grip, especially wetExcellent — moisture-proof, impact resistantHard-use EDC, tactical carry, wet environments; most popular production handle material
Carbon FiberVery lightSmooth with woven texture; distinctive visual patternExcellent — extremely strong for its weightPremium lightweight build; collector aesthetic; often paired with titanium liners
MicartaModerateWarm, natural feel; improves with useExcellent — moisture-proof, toughOutdoor use, working knives, buyers who want a traditional feel with modern performance
AluminumLightMachined texture; anodizes to many colorsGood — lighter than steel, can dentLightweight EDC, budget-accessible premium feel; common in Kershaw and mid-tier production
Stainless SteelHeavySmooth or machined; significant heftOutstanding — nearly indestructibleTraditional pocket knives, heavy-duty working folders; buyers who want maximum durability
Folding Knife Opening Mechanisms: Flipper, Thumb Stud, Thumb Hole, Assisted & Automatic+
Opening TypeHow It WorksBest ForLegal Note
Flipper TabProtrusion on blade spine; flick with index finger to deploy; smooth on bearingsFast one-hand deployment; most popular in modern production EDCLegal everywhere manual knives are allowed
Thumb StudSmall stud on blade flat; push with thumb to open; ambidextrous versions on both sidesTraditional one-hand opening; preferred by many for controlled deploymentLegal everywhere manual knives are allowed
Thumb Hole (Spyderco Round Hole)

Folding Knives — Frequently Asked Questions

Expert answers from the Knifeworks team on the most common folding knife questions — from lock types and legal carry to steel selection and care.

What is the best folding knife for everyday carry?+

The best EDC folding knife depends on three factors: how you carry (pocket, clip, bag), what tasks you use it for, and your budget. For most buyers, a 3"–3.5" drop point blade in CPM-S35VN or Nitro-V steel with a reliable lock mechanism covers everything from package opening to food prep to light utility work. The Benchmade Bugout (AXIS Lock, S30V), Vosteed Raccoon (button lock, Nitro-V), and Spyderco Para 3 (Compression Lock, S45VN) are three of the most consistently recommended EDC folders in this range. For a first quality pocket knife, any of these is an excellent starting point.

What is the strongest folding knife lock?+

Lock strength is measured by resistance to blade closure under load. The Benchmade AXIS Lock, Spyderco Compression Lock, Demko Shark Lock, and Chris Reeve integral lock are all considered among the strongest production mechanisms. Cold Steel's Tri-Ad lockback — designed by Andrew Demko — is regarded as the strongest lockback ever put into production. For practical purposes, all of these locks are stronger than any load a folding knife should be subjected to in normal use. The more important question is which lock is most intuitive for your carry and use style.

Are folding knives legal to carry?+

Manual folding knives are legal to own and carry in most US states, but blade length restrictions, carry method restrictions (concealed vs. open), and location restrictions (schools, government buildings, airports) vary significantly by state and municipality. Assisted-opening knives are legal in most states but a few jurisdictions treat them as switchblades. Automatic (switchblade) knives are restricted or prohibited in many states. Before purchasing any knife for carry, verify the laws in your specific state, county, and city. Knifeworks cannot provide legal advice — we recommend consulting your state's statutes or a local attorney if you're unsure.

What is the difference between a frame lock and a liner lock?+

Both lock by having a spring-flex member slide behind the blade tang when open, preventing closure. The difference is what that member is made of. A liner lock uses a separate spring steel liner inside the handle scales — the scales themselves are structural but the lock is its own component. A frame lock uses the handle frame itself (usually titanium) as the locking member — the handle flexes to lock, meaning the entire handle is doing double duty. Frame locks are generally found on titanium-handled premium folders; liner locks are found on G10, carbon fiber, and aluminum handled production knives. Both are equally reliable when properly designed and executed.

What blade steel should I choose for a folding knife?+

For most daily carry buyers, CPM-S35VN is the correct answer — premium stainless with outstanding toughness, excellent edge retention, and easy enough to sharpen on standard equipment. If you want maximum edge life and sharpen infrequently, step up to M390 or CPM-20CV. If you want the best all-around steel available today, CPM-MagnaCut. If you're buying your first quality knife and want value without compromise, Nitro-V (found in the Vosteed Raccoon) delivers genuine premium credentials at an accessible price. For wet or marine environments, Nitro-V's nitrogen-enhanced corrosion resistance makes it the standout choice.

How do I choose the right blade length for a folding knife?+

Blade length affects carry legality, pocket presence, and task capability. For most EDC use, 3"–3.5" is the sweet spot — long enough for practical tasks, short enough for comfortable daily carry and legal in the most jurisdictions. Under 3" is ideal for office-friendly carry, restricted jurisdictions, or buyers with smaller hands. Over 3.5" is appropriate for outdoor, camping, and hard-use applications where blade length matters for the task. Check your local blade length restrictions before choosing — many cities and states have specific limits between 2.5" and 4".

How do I maintain and sharpen a folding knife?+

For regular maintenance: wipe the blade clean after use, apply a light drop of oil to the pivot after heavy use or exposure to water, and store with the blade closed and clean. For sharpening: most stainless EDC steels (S35VN, 154CM, VG-10) sharpen well on ceramic rods or whetstones at 20° per side. Premium steels like M390 and MagnaCut benefit from diamond sharpening equipment for efficient material removal. Pull-through sharpeners work but remove more metal than necessary — a whetstone or ceramic rod produces a better edge with less material loss. If you're new to sharpening, a guided angle system like the DMT Aligner ensures consistent results every time.

What is the difference between a flipper and a thumb stud opening?+

A flipper tab protrudes from the blade's spine and is activated by flicking with the index finger — fast, natural, and easy on ceramic or ball bearing pivots. A thumb stud is a small protrusion on the flat of the blade, pushed with the thumb from a natural grip. Both are manual opening methods legal anywhere manual knives are allowed. Flippers on bearing pivots are generally faster and smoother than thumb studs on washers, but many enthusiasts prefer thumb studs for their precision and control. Spyderco's round hole is a third option — a thumb-operated hole in the blade flat that is genuinely ambidextrous and works equally well with gloves.

18,000+ Folding Knives · Authorized Dealer · Expert Support · Fast Shipping

Every Lock. Every Steel. Every Budget. The Right Folding Knife Is Here.

Browse the full Knifeworks folding knife catalog — from the most practical daily carry flippers to collector-grade titanium frames and limited production pieces. Benchmade, Spyderco, Demko, Vosteed, Begg Knives, Pro-Tech, and 100+ more brands, all sourced through authorized channels with full manufacturer warranties. Questions? Call 888-225-9775 — we'll help you find the right knife. Fast shipping from Columbia, Louisiana.

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