The Best Self Defense Knife

Protecting oneself has always been a top priority for individuals seeking peace of mind. One of the most effective and practical tools for self-defense is a high-quality knife. In this article, we bring you a roundup of the best self defense knives currently available in the market. We’ve carefully selected and reviewed these knives, taking into consideration their durability, design, and utility. From folding knives to fixed blade models, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to discover the perfect self-defense knife for your needs and preferences.

The Top 12 Best Self Defense Knife

1. Buck Knives 75th Anniversary Special Edition 501 — Limited Edition Plain Blade Clip Point Knife with Custom Medallion Handle & Embossed Leather Sheath — Celebrate Buck Knives’ 75th anniversary with the limited edition 119 Special, boasting a rugged black and stainless steel handle, a 75th anniversary blade stamp, and a commemorative leather sheath — the perfect addition for any knife enthusiast!
2. Double Agent II: A Versatile Cold Steel Knife for Everyday Carry — The Cold Steel 39FN Double Agent II offers ultimate grip and protection with its patent-pending double-ring design, making it an ideal companion for everyday carry or tactical use.
3. Cold Steel Double Agent II Serrated Knife with Grivory Handle and Secure-EX Sheath — The Cold Steel Double Agent II Serrated knife offers a discreet and comfortable design, with a 7.75-inch overall length, 2.4 oz weight, and a secure-ex neck sheath, making it an ideal choice for self-defense and everyday use.
4. Sleek Cold Steel Recon Tanto SK-5 Knife with Secure-Ex Sheath — The Cold Steel Recon Tanto SK-5 is a combat-proven fixed blade with its innovative tanto design, making it a top choice for military and tactical units worldwide.
5. Reliable SHANK Knife with G10 Handles and CRYO S35VN Steel Blade — The SOG Pentagon FX Blackout is a versatile, fully-customizable shank knife designed for the modern warfighter, featuring a durable S35VN steel blade, G10 handles, and a comprehensive Universal Mounting System for mission flexibility.
6. Smith & Wesson M&P Ultimate Survival Knife: Versatile and Durable — Stay prepared even in the toughest situations with the Smith & Wesson M&P Ultimate Survival Knife, featuring a rubberized handle, a robust 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade, and a hard synthetic sheath for easy carrying.
7. Civivi Mini Elementum Fixed Blade Knife with Dark Green Canvas Micarta Handle — The Civivi 23010DS1 Mini Elementum Fixed Blade boasts a sleek design with Damascus steel, a versatile canvas micarta handle, and a durable black kydex sheath with a bead chain, offering a reliable, one-piece steel knife for daily use.
8. Cold Steel Hide Out: Compact Neck Knife with Satin-Finished AUS 8A Blade and Griv-Ex Handle — Experience a flawless combination of lightweight, sharp, and durable with the Hide Out, a highly-rated neck knife that offers exceptional functionality in a small, inconspicuous package.
9. Versatile Cold Steel Bushman Knife with Secure-Ex Sheath — Experience unmatched strength and versatility with the Cold Steel Bushman Knife, a high-carbon steel masterpiece designed for survival and outdoor enthusiasts.
10. Cold Steel Finn Hawk: Versatile, Durable, and Beautiful Fixed Blade Knife — The Finn Hawk Fixed Blade Knife by Cold Steel — a high-quality, versatile, and collectible Bushcraft knife with a stunning Nordic-inspired design, perfect for outdoor adventures.
11. Affordable, High-Performance Cold Steel Folding Knife for Hunting — Safely handle all jobs with the Cold Steel 23JC Double Safe Hunter, a budget-friendly folding knife with high-quality performance and innovative safety features.
12. Smith & Wesson Extraction & Evasion Kukri Fixed Blade Knife — Experience ultimate leverage and unbeatable cutting power with the Smith & Wesson Extraction & Evasion Kukri Fixed Blade Knife, a versatile and durable companion for all your outdoor adventures.

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Reviews

Buck Knives 75th Anniversary Special Edition 501 — Limited Edition Plain Blade Clip Point Knife with Custom Medallion Handle & Embossed Leather Sheath

Recently, I had the pleasure of using the Buck Knives Special for a week in my daily life. It’s a remarkable piece of craftsmanship, boasting an ebony-covered phenolic handle and a striking, satin finish. The overall design is both modern and traditional, making it an excellent addition to my collection.

One of the most impressive features of this knife is its 420HC stainless steel blade. It holds an edge remarkably well, ensuring that it remains sharp for long periods of time. However, I did notice it can be a little difficult to sharpen, especially for beginner knife enthusiasts.

The handle itself is comfortable to grip and provides an excellent balance when in use. The custom medallion in the handle and the 75th anniversary blade stamp add a touch of elegance and nostalgia, making it a perfect gift for a celebration.

One area I think could be improved is the handle’s non-slip grip. While it’s functional, the smooth, untextured surface could be a little slippery when things get a little wet or greasy.

In conclusion, the Buck Knives Special is an outstanding piece of American-made craftsmanship. Its sleek design, functional blade, and thoughtful custom touches make it a fantastic addition to any knife enthusiast’s collection. The only drawback for some may be the slightly challenging sharpening process, but overall, it’s a wonderful product that I’m sure will serve well for years to come.

Double Agent II: A Versatile Cold Steel Knife for Everyday Carry

The Cold Steel Double Agent II is a versatile knife that I’ve come to rely on in my daily life. This compact and lightweight blade, designed by Zach Whitson, is perfect for concealment and easy to carry with its comfortable grip. The double ring handle system allowed me to effortlessly switch between a forward and reverse grip, providing an extra level of security and control.

The blade length of 3 inches, combined with the 2.3 mm thickness, makes it ideal for various cutting tasks without sacrificing the knife’s portability. The Japanese Aus 8A Stainless steel ensures durability and a sharp edge right out of the box. I was particularly impressed with the Secure-Ex Neck Sheath, which securely keeps the knife in place without any hassle.

One downside I encountered was the sheath’s release tab, which took some practice to master. Additionally, I noticed that the blade could have been a bit thicker for more robust applications. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Cold Steel Double Agent II has proven to be a reliable and convenient tool for my daily activities, making it a worthwhile investment.

Cold Steel Double Agent II Serrated Knife with Grivory Handle and Secure-EX Sheath

As I tried out the Cold Steel Double Agent neck knife, I found that its sleek and lightweight design not only made it easy to conceal under my clothes but also comfortable to wear. The double ring handle really offered a secure grip, and although I have big hands, it didn’t hinder me from using the knife effectively.

The knife itself was incredibly sharp, and it cut through anything I put it against without any trouble. The sheath was also a great addition, being sturdy and made of high-quality material, ensuring that the knife stays in place.

However, I did notice that the sheath lacked a belt clip, which would have made it even more convenient to carry around. Overall, this neck knife performed exceptionally well, and I would recommend it to anyone in need of a reliable and easy-to-conceal self-defense tool.

Sleek Cold Steel Recon Tanto SK-5 Knife with Secure-Ex Sheath

The Cold Steel Recon Tanto SK-5 is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast. The SK-5 carbon stainless steel blade has proven time and again to be a reliable choice for everyday use and intense combat situations.

One of its standout features is the smooth cutting action, which makes it perfect for a variety of tasks. A Kraton handle adds to the durability and comfortable grip, perfect for both survival situations or an afternoon at the campsite. With a total length of 29.7 cm and a blade length of 17.8 cm, this knife is easy to maneuver and a great companion when camping or hunting.

Weighing in at 250 g, this knife is comfortable to carry around and light enough not to hinder your movements. This Recon Tanto is designed to excel in the field, redefining the standard for combat knives worldwide. The secure-ex sheath included provides additional protection and a solid hold, so you will always have your trusty companion by your side.

This knife is an indispensable addition to any gear kit and will not disappoint those who seek both quality and versatility.

Reliable SHANK Knife with G10 Handles and CRYO S35VN Steel Blade

Last week, I gave the SOG Pentagon FX Blackout knife a try, and I must say, it exceeded my expectations in several ways. This full-sized fixed blade is meticulously crafted to meet the demands of the modern-day warfighter.

The first thing that caught my attention was the CYRO S35VN full-tang steel blade. It’s a double-edge blade that’s perfectly balanced, and it just glides through any material with ease. The spear point blade shape is another highlight — it’s designed for precision and accuracy, making it a versatile tool for various missions.

The G10 handle is another great feature. Its textured grip ensures a firm hold on the knife at all times, and the slip-on/slip-off design allows for easy customization. Furthermore, the removable handles let you create a slimmer profile if needed, adding to the adaptability of this knife.

Speaking of adaptability, the GRN sheath is truly a game-changer. It’s compatible with SOG’s Universal Mounting System, allowing you to adjust retention, angle, and positioning for optimal use in different scenarios. The no-tool sheath adjustment is a thoughtful addition, providing flexibility and convenience.

However, despite all its benefits, I did come across a few areas where the SOG Pentagon FX Blackout could use some improvement. For instance, the sheath could be quieter when deploying the blade. This may seem like a minor detail, but it’s crucial in covert operations. I also wish the accessories from SOG’s Universal Mounting System came with different sizes for better compatibility.

Overall, I’d highly recommend the SOG Pentagon FX Blackout knife for its adaptability, high-quality materials, and unmatched functionality. Just be aware of the potential for rattle due to the sheath’s design, and consider customizing the accessories to fit your needs perfectly.

Smith & Wesson M&P Ultimate Survival Knife: Versatile and Durable

The Smith & Wesson Ultimate Survival Knife instantly became my go-to tool in the wild, perfect for camping trips or simply as an everyday carry. It’s the ultimate combination of style and functionality, with a rugged, grippy handle that just screams durability. And the blade, oh the blade! .

It’s a full 8Cr13MoV of sharp stainless steel, which is perfect for slicing through tough materials. I was truly impressed by how well it performs even in harshest conditions.

I do, however, wish the sheath was a bit more securely attached to my belt. Overall, it’s a versatile and powerful tool that’s worth every penny.

Civivi Mini Elementum Fixed Blade Knife with Dark Green Canvas Micarta Handle

I recently got my hands on the Civivi Mini Elementum Fixed Blade, and I’m quite impressed. The drop point Nitro-V blade is a real standout, offering both sharpness and durability that I’ve come to expect from Damascus Steel. And the full tang construction does a fantastic job of ensuring this knife can truly handle daily wear and tear.

Now, onto the handle. The green canvas micarta feels great in the hand and adds a touch of class to this otherwise practical tool. However, one downside has been the weight; at 0.7 oz, it’s not ideal for those who prefer a lighter knife. Speaking of accessories, the black kydex sheath and bead chain provide a nice, snug fit and secure my knife when not in use.

Overall, the Civivi Mini Elementum Fixed Blade is a solid addition to any knife collection, especially given its versatility and robust design. There’s always room for improvement, but for now, I’m quite happy with this purchase.

Cold Steel Hide Out: Compact Neck Knife with Satin-Finished AUS 8A Blade and Griv-Ex Handle

Discovering the Cold Steel Hide Out was like a breath of fresh air- a hidden gem amid the array of similar neck knives in the market. This diminutive device, weighing just 1.9 ounces, is more than just a convenient accessory to wear around your neck in the long run; it has proven to be quite essential, when needed most.

My personal use of this Cold Steel Hide Out has made me familiar with its every detail. The blade, barely as long as three inches, bears the quality of being double-edged- giving it a sense of resilience and versatility. The overall length of six-and-a-half-inches may be modest, but it is just right, allowing easy handling and concealment without compromising the power of the blade.

In terms of the blade material, it’s made from Japanese Aus 8A stainless steel, which was a pleasant surprise. The satin finish not only provided a sleek look but also a touch of elegance to the otherwise seemingly ordinary knife. The blade also has a considerable thickness of three millimeters, making it quite sturdy despite its featherweight status.

The next striking feature is the handle. Crafted from Griv-Ex material- a sturdy plastic that gives a comfortable and firm grip- it was designed to be thin and flat, complementing the blade’s subtle contours. The distinctive handle, coupled with its deep checkered texture, made sure that the blade remains firmly in the hand.

The 3.5-inch handle is an ample length allowing effortless transition between grips. A Secure-Ex sheath with a bead chain lanyard adds a sense of safety and convenience, permitting the wearer to keep the knife discreetly at the neck-level without the fear of it accidentally slipping off.

However, even the most appreciated devices have a downside, the Hide Out was no exception. Despite its secure sheath, sweating or moisture from the body can cause the Aus 8 to rust. The bead chain lanyard was a bit stiff and required some effort to maintain. On certain occasions, the handle also had an annoying tendency to grip the shirt, but these have been manageable.

Overall, the Cold Steel Hide Out, with its sleek design and substantial functionality, has been an indispensable part of my daily life in recent months. Its lightweight and practical nature, coupled with exceptional durability and a high-quality sheath, made it a reliable tool for everyday carry. It was a surprise to find something as handy and efficient as this amid the market of less effective neck knives. My experience using this knife has been largely positive, but it does have minor drawbacks. It’s a device that could prove to be both handy and reliable in certain situations, but its potential downsides should definitely be noted.

Versatile Cold Steel Bushman Knife with Secure-Ex Sheath

For someone who loves spending time outdoors, the Cold Steel Bushman knife is a must-have. The first thing you’ll notice is the solid construction; it feels like a tool designed to last a lifetime. The blade, made of SK-5 high carbon steel, is incredibly sharp and capable of handling any task you throw its way. The hollow handle also offers a great feature, allowing you to store survival supplies or attach an extension to increase reach or ease of throwing.

However, there’s one area where the Bushman could use some improvement: the sheath. While it does its job of holding the knife securely, the retention mechanism seems to pop out quite easily, making it unsafe and a bit annoying to use. Nevertheless, this small flaw doesn’t detract too much from the overall strength and versatility of this survival knife. Overall, the Cold Steel Bushman knife is a great option for anyone looking for a reliable tool to tackle their adventures in the great outdoors.

Cold Steel Finn Hawk: Versatile, Durable, and Beautiful Fixed Blade Knife

The Cold Steel Finn Hawk Fixed Blade Knife was a delightful surprise during my recent bushcraft adventure. I was in search of a reliable, versatile tool for my excursion, and this knife certainly exceeded my expectations.

The Scandi Grind, inspired by the Nordic Countries, is a simple yet elegant design that makes the knife easy to use for skinning and cutting tasks. The German 4116 steel is cryo-hardened, ensuring the blade remains sturdy and sharp even after prolonged use.

The Finn Hawk’s 10 cm blade made it the ultimate tool at the campsite, whether I was cooking or performing minor tasks to set up the site. Its double-injection molded handle, with the first layer being strong and weather-resistant, and the second layer being softer for a firm grip, was a great combination for handling various situations.

One of the highlights was the included polymer sheath, which could easily be mounted on a belt. The knife’s quality and value made it a steal compared to knives costing much more.

However, I did notice that the sheath wasn’t the easiest to remove from the belt, and the knife’s blade was slightly thinner compared to the more expensive alternatives. But overall, the Finn Hawk Fixed Blade Knife was an excellent addition to my bushcraft kit and a steal at the price point. It’s definitely a “hidden gem” worth exploring for outdoor enthusiasts.

Affordable, High-Performance Cold Steel Folding Knife for Hunting

I recently added the Cold Steel Tilite to my collection of hunting tools, and I must say, it’s been a game-changer. This budget-friendly folding knife has truly exceeded my expectations. The Double Safe Hunter is modeled after the popular old-school Voyager, but with a few key improvements that make it even more user-friendly.

One of the most significant aspects of this knife is its unique safety mechanism. The Double Safe Hunter is designed with your fingers in mind, providing high protection and safety — a crucial feature when you’re out in the wild. Its secondary safety mechanism resists blows and other harsh impacts, giving you peace of mind as you tackle various hunting tasks.

The blade itself is also impressive. Measuring 8.89 cm in length, it’s versatile enough to handle jobs ranging from skinning mice to moose. The 8Cr13MoV steel hardened to 57–58 Rockwell hardness ensures that it’s durable and capable of withstanding wear and tear.

The handle is another highlight of this knife. Made from glass-filled nylon, it’s both thin and ergonomic, allowing for a comfortable grip even during long hunting trips. Additionally, the steel pocket clip is a thoughtful addition, making it convenient to carry around.

In my experience, the Double Safe Hunter from Cold Steel has been a reliable and efficient companion on my hunting adventures. It’s just the right size to fit in my pocket, and its clip makes it easy to access when I need it. The blade stays sharp for a long time, and the safety mechanism gives me confidence in its performance.

Overall, I highly recommend the Cold Steel Tilite for anyone in the market for a high-quality, budget-friendly folding knife. Its impressive features and safety features make it a worthy addition to any hunter’s toolkit.

Smith & Wesson Extraction & Evasion Kukri Fixed Blade Knife

As a knife enthusiast, I was excited to try out the Smith & Wesson 1193181 Extraction and Evasion Kukri. I was blown away by its rugged design and perfect balance that gave me the ultimate leverage for any task.

The 9-inch blade length, combined with the sawback feature, made it a versatile tool for cutting through anything in my path. The overmolded rubber handle provided a superior grip, ensuring that I had full control over the kukri, even in challenging conditions.

The durable black 3Cr13 blade steel and nylon sheath added to the kukri’s durability and prepared me for any adventure. I couldn’t have asked for a better tool to take on my outdoor excursions.

Buyer’s Guide

If you’re looking for a self-defense knife, you need to consider several factors to make the right choice. Here are some of the most important aspects to consider and advice for purchasing the best self-defense knife for your needs.

Types of Self-Defense Knives

There are various types of self-defense knives available in the market, each with its unique features and applications. Some of the most common types include folding knives, fixed-blade knives, and assisted-opening knives. Folding knives are convenient for everyday carry and easy to hide, while fixed-blade knives offer better durability and reliability. Assisted-opening knives provide quick access to the blade, even with one hand.

Blade Material

The blade material is another crucial aspect to consider when purchasing a self-defense knife. High-quality self-defense knives have blades made from sturdy materials such as stainless steel, carbon steel, or titanium. Stainless steel is rust-resistant and easy to maintain, while carbon steel provides superior edge retention. Titanium blades are lightweight and offer excellent durability.

Blade Shape

The blade shape of a self-defense knife plays a vital role in its effectiveness. Some popular blade shapes include the flipper, drop-point, clip-point, and serrated blade. Flipper knives are characterized by a small, flip-out component that you can use to open the knife. Drop-point knives feature a straight cutting edge that’s strong and versatile, while clip-point knives are thin, pointed, and suitable for piercing. Serrated blades are useful for sawing through materials like rope or wood.

Handles and Grips

A self-defense knife’s handle and grip are essential for comfort and control. Look for knives with ergonomic handles that fit well in your hand and provide a secure grip. Some self-defense knives come with textured grips, which can help prevent the knife from slipping when wet or during vigorous use. Other features to consider include pocket clips or attachments that make it easy to carry and access the knife when needed.

FAQ

What are the different types of self-defense knives available in the market?

There are several types of self-defense knives, including the following:

1. Tactical Knives: These are designed for military or law enforcement purposes. They usually have a longer blade, serrated edges, and a sturdy handle. 2. Karambites: A karambit’s handle is curved, allowing the user to grip it with their entire hand, while the blade is curved and hooked. It is useful for close-range self-defense situations. 3. Balisong Knives: Also known as butterfly knives, these have hinged handles that swing out. They are easy to conceal and quick to deploy. 4. Pocket Knives: These are designed for everyday carry and have a folding blade. They are small and discreet, making them an excellent option for self-defense.
2. Assisted Opening Knives: These knives are designed to open quickly and easily by simply pressing a button or flicking a switch. They are a good choice for people who may have difficulty opening a traditional pocket knife. 6. Spring-Assisted Knives: These knives have a spring mechanism that helps to open the blade when a button or switch is pressed. They are easy to open and can be a popular choice for self-defense.

What materials are self-defense knives typically made from?

Self-defense knives are generally made from high-quality materials to ensure durability, strength, and resistance to corrosion. Common materials include:

1. Stainless Steel: This is a corrosion-resistant material that is also strong and easy to sharpen. Many tactical knives and other defense tools are made from stainless steel. 2. High Carbon Steel: This is a superior blade steel that is strong, sharp, and holds its edge well. It is often used in high-quality knives. 3. Titanium: This lightweight, strong, and corrosion-resistant material is sometimes used in the handle or blade of self-defense knives.
2. Aluminum: Another lightweight material used in the handle of some knives. It is strong and resistant to corrosion, making it an excellent choice for a self-defense knife. 5. G-10 or Carbon Fiber: These are composite materials, often used for the handle of some tactical knives, providing strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion. 6. Micarta: A reinforced composite of paper impregnated with an epoxy resin, micarta is used for knife handles due to its excellent wear resistance and grip.

What are some important features to consider when buying a self-defense knife?

When purchasing a self-defense knife, consider the following factors:

1. Blade Material: Look for a knife made from high-quality blade materials that will maintain its edge and resist rust or corrosion. This is particularly important for knives that will be used frequently or in harsh environments. 2. Blade Style: Choose a knife with a style that suits your needs. For example, a straight blade may be better for chopping and hacking, while a serrated blade can be effective at cutting rope or clothing. 3. Handle Material: Select a handle material that is comfortable to grip, easy to clean, and resistant to wear and tear. Consider the knives that you will be carrying, and choose a handle material that is appropriate for the environment in which the knife will be used.
2. Blade Length and Width: A longer blade allows for more striking power and can be better for chopping, while a shorter blade is more suitable for close-quarters combat. The width of the blade should also be considered, as a wider blade is generally more effective at cutting through thick materials. 5. Locking Mechanism: If you choose a folding knife, ensure that it has a secure locking mechanism to prevent the blade from accidentally opening or closing. 6. Additional Features: Some self-defense knives come with additional features such as assisted opening, pocket clip, or a lanyard hole. Consider whether these features are useful for your intended use of the knife.

What is a karambit and how is it used for self-defense?

A karambit is a curved blade with a hooked tip, typically used for self-defense in close-range situations. The grip on the karambit is curved, allowing the user to hold it with a full hand and generate a strong grip. The blade is also curved, designed for slashing or puncturing movements. The hook on the karambit can also be used to catch and control an attacker’s wrist or clothing.

To use a karambit effectively for self-defense, the user must first learn the proper techniques for holding, gripping, and deploying the weapon. Practice is key to mastering the karambit, as it requires a good understanding of body mechanics, timing, and precision in its use. Some self-defense courses specifically teach the use of karambits, and it is recommended that anyone interested in using one for self-defense seek proper training before attempting to use one in a potentially life-threatening situation.

What are assisted opening knives and how do they work in self-defense situations?

Assisted opening knives are designed to help the user quickly and easily open the knife. They typically have a spring or a lever mechanism that helps to open the blade when a button or switch is pressed. The blade can then be locked into place, ensuring that it remains secure and safe to use. Assisted opening knives are a good choice for people who may have difficulty opening a traditional pocket knife, such as those with arthritis or limited hand dexterity.

In self-defense situations, the quickness and ease with which an assisted opening knife can be deployed can be advantageous. The user can act quickly to defend themselves, without the need for extra manual effort to open the blade. The locked blade can also provide additional safety, as it prevents the blade from accidentally closing while in use. While not designed primarily for combat, assisted opening knives can still be effective self-defense tools when used correctly.

Are there any legal considerations when carrying a self-defense knife?

Laws regarding the possession and carrying of self-defense knives differ depending on the jurisdiction. It is essential to understand the local laws and regulations before carrying a self-defense knife in a public place. In some areas, certain types of knives may be prohibited, such as those with blades exceeding a specific length. Other areas may require a permit or license to carry a self-defense knife. For example, in some states in the United States, it is legal to carry a self-defense knife without a permit, while in others, a permit is required.

It is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the specific laws and regulations in your area before purchasing or carrying a self-defense knife. Failure to do so could result in legal consequences and may compromise your ability to effectively defend yourself if the need arises. Some self-defense courses and knife retailers can provide guidance on legal considerations when carrying a self-defense knife.