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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  
  • Victorinox Swiss Army Tinker, Red

    Victorinox Swiss Army Tinker, Red

    Victorinox Swiss Army Tinker, Red3.5 in. Closed length. Features large blade, small blade, Phillips screwdriver, can opener with small screwdriver, bottle opener with large screwdriver and wire stripper, reamer with sewing eye, tweezers, toothpick, and...

    $34.00
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  • SALE
    Gerber Gator, Folding Clip Point, Plain Edge

    Gerber Gator, Folding Clip Point, Plain Edge

    Gerber Gator, Folding Clip Point, Plain Edge Acclaimed those fourteen years ago and as popular as ever today, the Gator Folder employs advanced thermoplastics with an alligator skin texture to deliver a stunningly reliable, ultimately comfortable grip...

    $69.99 $37.99
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  • Victorinox Swiss Army Spartan, Black

    Victorinox Swiss Army Spartan, Black

    Victorinox Swiss Army Spartan, BlackSpartan Features: 3.58 inch closed, Large blade, Small blade, Can opener with small screwdriver, Bottle opener with large screwdriver & wire stripper, Reamer with sewing eye, Corkscrew, Toothpick, Tweezers, Key ring

    $34.00
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  • Victorinox 3 1/4" Orange Straight Edge Paring Knife

    Victorinox 3 1/4" Orange Straight Edge Paring Knife

    Victorinox 3 1/4" Orange Straight Edge Paring KnifeInspired by orchards of navel oranges and tangerines, the 3 1/4-inch Orange Straight Edge Paring Knife is specially crafted of high-quality stainless steel to maintain a sharp edge, while its bright...

    $8.00
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  • Gerber E-Z-Out Junior, Part Serrated Edge

    Gerber E-Z-Out Junior, Part Serrated Edge

    Gerber E-Z-Out Junior, Part Serrated Edge We don't necessarily make knives to win popularity contests. But in the case of our E-Z Out and E-Z Out Jr. line, were not gonna complain how theyve gained such a dedicated following. Because these profoundly...

    $45.99 $34.99
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  • Victorinox Swiss Army Spartan, Red

    Victorinox Swiss Army Spartan, Red

    Victorinox Swiss Army Spartan, RedFeatures Large blade Small blade Can opener with small screwdriver Bottle opener with large screwdriver & wire stripper Reamer with sewing eye Corkscrew Toothpick Tweezers Key ring Size: 91 mm | 3 1/2 inch

    $36.00 $34.00
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  • Victorinox Swiss Army Recruit, Black

    Victorinox Swiss Army Recruit, Black

    Victorinox Swiss Army Recruit, BlackRecruit Features: 3.31 inch closed, Large blade, Small blade, Can opener with small screwdriver, Bottle opener with large screwdriver & wire stripper, Toothpick, Tweezers, Key ring

    $25.00
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  • Victorinox Swiss Army Farmer, Silver Alox

    Victorinox Swiss Army Farmer, Silver Alox

    Victorinox Swiss Army Farmer, Silver AloxFeatures Large blade Reamer Can opener with small screwdriver Bottle opener with large screwdriver & wire stripper Wood saw Key ring Engraving panel on back Silver alox ribbed Size: 91 mm | 3 1/2 inch

    $82.00 $73.99
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  • Victorinox 3 1/4" Yellow Straight Edge Paring Knife

    Victorinox 3 1/4" Yellow Straight Edge Paring Knife

    Victorinox 3 1/4" Yellow Straight Edge Paring KnifeInspired by ripe citrusy lemons, the 3 1/4-inch Yellow Straight Edge Paring Knife is specially crafted of high-quality stainless steel to maintain a sharp edge, while its bright yellow handle is...

    $8.00
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  • Victorinox 3 1/4" Pink Straight Edge Paring Knife

    Victorinox 3 1/4" Pink Straight Edge Paring Knife

    Victorinox 3 1/4" Pink Straight Edge Paring KnifeThe 3 1/4-inch Pink Straight Edge Paring Knife is a colorful addition to any kitchen.Specially crafted of high-quality stainless steel to maintain a sharp edge, while its bright pink handle is ergonomic,...

    $8.00
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  • Sog Key with Knife

    Sog Key with Knife

    Sog Key with Knife We have a saying that the best knife is the one that you have with you! Always be prepared with the new Key knife. This is the first lockback of its kind. Open up your awareness. We love the fact that sometimes we wish we had a knife...

    $15.99
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  • Sog SlipZilla, Satin Drop Point Blade, Plain Edge

    Sog SlipZilla, Satin Drop Point Blade, Plain Edge

    Sog SlipZilla, Satin Drop Point Blade, Plain Edge The SlipZilla has the same general shape and size as the small SOGzilla, but with G10 handles and slip joint construction. In devising this line, which includes several sizes and blade shapes we wanted to...

    $44.95 $26.95
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  • Victorinox Golf Tool, Ruby Handles

    Victorinox Golf Tool, Ruby Handles

    Victorinox Golf Tool, Ruby HandlesFeatures Repair tool ballmarker tee punch with with -groove cleaner -cap lifter -nailfile blade toothpick scissors nylon pouch with rotating clip

    $89.00 $79.99
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  • SOG E-Clips Lockback, 420 Stainless, GFRN Handle

    SOG E-Clips Lockback, 420 Stainless, GFRN Handle

    SOG E-Clips Lockback, 420 Stainless, GFRN Handle The E-Clips is a no nonsense lockback that is lightweight, durable and affordable. The first thing you might notice is the adjustable thumbstud fine tune its position and tailor it to your hand.

    $18.75 $14.95
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  • Gerber E-Z-Out Junior, Plain Edge

    Gerber E-Z-Out Junior, Plain Edge

    Gerber E-Z-Out Junior, Plain Edge We don't necessarily make knives to win popularity contests. But in the case of our E-Z Out and E-Z Out Jr. line, were not gonna complain how theyve gained such a dedicated following. Because these profoundly versatile...

    $45.99 $35.99
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  • Victorinox Swiss Army Explorer, Red

    Victorinox Swiss Army Explorer, Red

    Victorinox Swiss Army Explorer, RedFeatures Large blade Small blade Can opener with small screwdriver Bottle opener with large screwdriver & wire stripper Scissors Magnifying glass Reamer with sewing eye Phillips screwdriver Corkscrew Hook Toothpick...

    $65.00
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  • Victorinox Swiss Army Tinker, Black, 91mm

    Victorinox Swiss Army Tinker, Black, 91mm

    Victorinox Swiss Army Tinker, Black, 91mm3.5 in. closed, with a black handle. Includes small and large blades, Phillips screwdriver, can opener with small screwdriver, bottle opener with large screwdriver, wire stripper, reamer with sewing eye, tweezers,...

    $36.00 $31.99
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  • Victorinox Swiss Army Classic SD and Tinker, Red

    Victorinox Swiss Army Classic SD and Tinker, Red

    Victorinox Swiss Army Classic SD and Tinker, RedThe Classic SD, our most popular pocket tool, is paired with thelarger Tinker pocket tool, creating a combo that can't be beat.Keep the Classic on your key chain and the Tinker in your garage orglove box,...

    $45.66
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  • Gerber E-Z Out Skeleton, Combo Edge

    Gerber E-Z Out Skeleton, Combo Edge

    Gerber E-Z Out Skeleton, Combo EdgeGerber E-Z Out Serrated. 4 1/2" closed. Stainless partially serrated blade with skeletonized design. Black rubberized Zytel handles and a low profile stainless pocket clip. These smooth opening lockback knives are...

    $49.99 $38.99
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  • Victorinox Swiss Army Waiter - Red (0.3303.X2) Victorinox Swiss Army Waiter - Red (0.3303.X2)

    Victorinox Swiss Army Waiter - Red (0.3303.X2)

    Victorinox Swiss Army Waiter - Red (0.3303.X2) In a toast of readiness, Victorinox gives a little wine lover's twist - literally. With its corkscrew always ready to go, the Waiter pocket knife will never leave you high and dry. Red, white, sparkling...

    $23.00
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  • Victorinox Tinker w/ 6" Fillet and Sheath

    Victorinox Tinker w/ 6" Fillet and Sheath

    Victorinox Tinker w/ 6" Fillet and SheathFeatures Large and small blades 1-1/2" pen blade length 2-1/2" spear blade length Can opener with small screwdriver Bottle opener with large screwdriver and wire stripper Reamer with sewing eye Keyring Toothpick...

    $88.95 $41.95
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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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