10 Best Pocket Knives Under $25 (October 2026) Tested

I spent the last three months carrying, cutting, and abusing ten of the most popular budget folders I could find, all priced under $25, to answer one simple question: can you actually get a good pocket knife for under $25 in 2026? Short answer: yes, but only if you know which ones to trust.

Cheap knives have a reputation for failing at the worst possible moment, and honestly, some of that reputation is earned. Mystery steel, weak locks, and pocket clips that snap off after a week are real problems at this price point. But brands like Smith & Wesson, Grand Way, Mossy Oak, and a handful of others have figured out how to deliver reliable cutting tools for less than a dinner out. After testing each of these on cardboard, rope, food prep, and daily carry, I can tell you which ones deserve your money and which ones you should skip.

This guide covers the best pocket knives under $25 you can buy right now. I included real user feedback from r/BudgetBlades and r/EDC alongside my own testing notes, plus a steel and lock comparison chart no competitor currently offers. Whether you need your first EDC knife, a backup blade, or a gift on a tight budget, you will find a solid option below.

Top 3 Picks for Best Pocket Knives Under $25

Best Pocket Knives Under $25 in 2026: Quick Overview

Here is the full lineup at a glance. Every knife listed fits under the $25 mark and is currently in stock on Amazon. The features column highlights what makes each one stand out from the crowd.

1. Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops SWA24S — Editor’s Choice

The Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops is the king of budget folders on Amazon, and for good reason. After carrying it for about six weeks, I came away impressed by how much knife you get for the money. The 3.1 inch clip point blade opened smoothly using either the thumb stud or the flipper tab, and the 7Cr17Mov stainless steel kept its edge through dozens of cardboard cuts without needing a touch-up.

The aluminum handle is the standout feature at this price. It feels substantial in hand without being heavy, tipping the scales at 3.52 ounces. The jimping along the spine gives your thumb a secure grip during detail work, and the liner lock engaged with a satisfying click every single time I opened it. For a knife that costs less than a pizza, the fit and finish genuinely surprised me.

On r/EDC, multiple users report carrying the SWA24S for years as a beater knife with zero complaints. One reviewer mentioned using theirs daily for over three years before the pivot needed any attention. That kind of long-term durability is rare in the sub-$25 category and is the main reason this knife earned our top spot.

The 7Cr17Mov steel is a Chinese-made equivalent of 440A, which means it will not hold an edge as long as premium steels like S30V or VG-10. For everyday box cutting and general utility tasks, though, it performs well. I found I only needed to sharpen it after about two weeks of regular use, which is reasonable for the price.

Build quality and warranty

Smith & Wesson backs this knife with a Limited Lifetime Warranty, something almost unheard of in this price bracket. The aluminum handle scales are contoured for grip, and the pocket clip is reversible for left or right carry. At 7.1 inches overall, it sits at the upper end of comfortable EDC size without feeling oversized.

One user on r/BudgetBlades noted that the liner lock can be tricky to disengage if you are not used to it. I agree with that observation; my first few openings took extra care, but it became second nature within a week. If you have larger hands or arthritis, the lock release might be more frustrating for you.

Best use cases

This knife excels as an everyday work knife for opening packages, breaking down cardboard, light outdoor tasks, and general utility. It is too large for formal office carry but perfect for anyone who needs a reliable folder they do not have to baby. I would not recommend it for food prep or skinning game, but for everything else, it punches well above its weight class.

2. GOOD WORKER Legal Pocket Knife — Best Multi-Tool Budget Pick

The GOOD WORKER pocket knife is the only folder in this price range that I would actually trust in an emergency vehicle kit. Between the glass breaker, seatbelt cutter, and sharp 440C blade, it covers the three tools you want within arm’s reach during a roadside crisis. I tested the seatbelt cutter on an old belt and it sliced through cleanly on the first pass.

The 2.95 inch blade is on the shorter side, which makes the knife legal to carry in more jurisdictions than longer options. The 440C stainless steel is notably harder than the 7Cr17Mov or 3CR13 steel found on cheaper knives, so edge retention was noticeably better in my testing. After a week of cardboard and rope cuts, the blade still shaved hair.

The biggest surprise here was the build quality. The aluminum handle has a satisfying heft without being heavy, and the pocket clip sits deep enough for concealed carry. Users on r/EDC consistently praise the solid feel, with one calling it “the closest thing to a Gerber Suspension at a third of the price.”

My main complaint is that the product listing describes this as a spring assisted knife, but the opening is purely manual. You flick it open with the thumb studs like any standard liner lock. The action is smooth, but if you specifically want spring assist, look at the Grand Way models further down.

Emergency preparedness value

The combination of features makes this knife genuinely useful beyond everyday tasks. The glass breaker tip is hardened steel and would actually shatter a car window in a real emergency. The seat belt cutter is recessed so you cannot accidentally slice yourself while reaching for the knife.

At 4.16 ounces and 7.17 inches overall, it carries comfortably in most pockets. The liner lock engages firmly, and there is zero blade play in any direction when open. For a knife that costs less than $10, that level of quality is remarkable.

Who should skip this

If you need a knife for clean, controlled cuts like food prep or whittling, the partially serrated blade is not ideal. Plain edge knives slide through tomatoes and rope cleaner. The GOOD WORKER is built for utility and emergency use, not precision work.

3. Grand Way 6688 Tanto — Best Tactical Style Under $25

The Grand Way 6688 looks like a knife that should cost three times as much. The 3.54 inch tanto blade is coated in titanium-nickel for corrosion resistance and a non-reflective finish, and the spring assisted opening snaps the blade out fast enough to startle you the first time. I tested mine on everything from cardboard to plastic strapping and the edge held without complaint.

The 440 stainless steel hardened to 60 HRC is impressive on paper. In practice, that means the blade stays sharp longer than most budget folders but is also harder to sharpen when it eventually dulls. For someone who does not want to touch up their knife every week, this is a real benefit.

Forum users on bladeforums.com have debated the 60 HRC claim, with some suggesting the actual hardness is closer to 57-58. Even at the lower end, that is still harder than most knives in this price range, and the edge retention in my testing matched what reviewers describe. The blade was still shaving arm hair after a full week of mixed cutting tasks.

The weight is the biggest compromise. At 7.76 ounces, the 6688 is heavier than every other knife on this list. In a backpack or tool bag it is fine, but in a dress pants pocket you will notice it. If you prioritize a lighter carry, the Smith & Wesson or AOSILEY are better options.

Spring assist reliability

The spring assist mechanism works, but inconsistently. On my test unit, the opening was fast and authoritative. Several reviewers report receiving units where the assist barely adds anything. The good news is that even without the spring firing, the thumb studs still deploy the blade smoothly.

Build quality is otherwise solid. The metal handle scales feel durable, the pocket clip is removable with the included screwdriver, and the lanyard hole accepts the included paracord. For a tactical style folder under $25, the 6688 hits a sweet spot.

Real world performance

I used the 6688 to break down a stack of moving boxes over a weekend and it never faltered. The tanto tip punched through tape cleanly and the edge did not roll even when I accidentally caught a staple. Reviewers on r/EDC mention using similar Grand Way knives for years of daily carry with no lock failures or blade play developing.

4. Grand Way 0207 Wood Handle — Best Looking Budget Knife

The Grand Way 0207 is the knife I reach for when I want something that looks nicer than it has any right to at this price. The rosewood handle scales are genuinely attractive, with natural grain patterns that vary from knife to knife. After carrying it for two weeks, I got more compliments on this knife than any other in the test.

The 440C stainless steel blade hardened to 60 HRC is the same steel found on much more expensive folders. It held an edge through rope cutting, cardboard, and food prep without needing sharpening. The spring assist fired reliably every time after a few initial openings to break in the pivot.

On r/BudgetBlades, users consistently recommend the 0207 as a gift knife because it looks more expensive than it is. One reviewer bought six as Christmas gifts and reported every recipient was impressed. If you need an inexpensive knife that does not scream “budget,” this is the one.

The handle is heavier than G10 or aluminum options, but the weight feels balanced in hand. At 6.3 ounces and 8.66 inches overall, it is a mid-sized folder that fits comfortably in most hands. The liner lock is solid and I never experienced any blade play during testing.

Wood handle care

Rosewood is a natural material, so it requires a bit more care than synthetic handles. I noticed the wood dried out slightly after a month of carry, but a light coat of mineral oil brought it back. If you are willing to do basic maintenance, the wood will age beautifully over the years.

The thumb studs are positioned for ambidextrous use, which is a nice touch. Left-handed users will not feel like an afterthought here. The pocket clip is reversible and adjustable, though it is stiff out of the box and takes some bending to seat properly.

Where this knife falls short

The glass breaker nub on the pommel is functional but uncomfortable. It catches on the pocket when drawing the knife, and after a week I found myself avoiding the nub entirely. If you do not need the glass breaker, the standard Grand Way 6495 covers the same blade with an aluminum handle.

Some users report the wood handle feeling cheap or plasticky in person. I disagree, but I can see how someone expecting solid rosewood might be disappointed. The scales are real wood, just thin and sealed with a clear coat.

5. Mossy Oak Mini Folding Knife — Best Compact EDC

If you want a pocket knife that disappears in your pocket until you need it, the Mossy Oak Mini is the smallest folder here at just 6 inches overall. I clipped it inside my jeans coin pocket and forgot it was there until I needed to open a box. For office carry or anywhere you want a low profile knife, this is hard to beat.

The 2.5 inch drop point blade is short enough to be legal almost everywhere, while still being long enough for everyday tasks. The 3CR13 stainless steel is not premium, but it sharpens quickly and takes a hair-popping edge with just a few strokes on a pocket sharpener.

Users on r/EDC love this knife for its compact size and surprisingly solid action. One reviewer mentioned carrying the Mossy Oak Mini for two years of daily office use with the only maintenance being an occasional sharpening. The liner lock has held up without loosening or developing blade play.

The G10 handle is grippy even when wet, and the stone-washed blade finish hides scratches well. At 3.52 ounces, it is one of the lightest knives on this list. If you carry a knife in your front pocket with keys and a phone, you will not notice the Mossy Oak Mini at all.

Multifunction features

The integrated bottle opener and glass breaker add real-world utility without much weight penalty. I used the bottle opener to crack open a few sodas during testing and it worked better than the cheap openers on my keychain. The glass breaker is small but functional.

The thumb stud opens the knife smoothly with one hand. There is no flipper tab, which is a minor drawback if you prefer that deployment style. For a knife at this price, the lack of a flipper is reasonable trade-off for the compact size.

Who should buy this

This knife is ideal for office workers, students, and anyone who needs an inconspicuous blade for light daily tasks. It is also a great backup knife to leave in a glove box or work bag. If you need a knife for serious outdoor use, look at the Grand Way models or the Smith & Wesson.

6. NedFoss FA48 5-in-1 — Best Multi-Tool Folder

The NedFoss FA48 is the most versatile knife in this roundup. It combines a 3.9 inch blade with a seatbelt cutter, glass breaker, bottle opener, and wrench cutouts in the handle. I used it as my only tool on a weekend camping trip and it handled every task I threw at it.

The frame lock is the standout feature. Instead of a thin liner that bends under stress, the frame lock uses a portion of the steel handle itself to lock the blade. The manufacturer rates it to 1500N of axial force, which is significantly stronger than typical liner locks. After a month of heavy use, the lock still engaged with zero play.

Reviewers on r/BudgetBlades specifically call out the FA48 as one of the strongest sub-$25 folders they have tested. One user mentioned prying with it (not recommended but everyone does it) and the knife showed no signs of stress. The 8Cr14Mov steel is harder than 440C and held an edge through extended cutting sessions.

The 6.58 ounce weight is noticeable but not unreasonable for a knife this size. The reversible pocket clip works for left or right carry, and the handle fills the hand comfortably. If you want a knife that can do more than just cut, the FA48 delivers.

Multi-tool practicality

The bottle opener on the handle works well and the wrench cutouts actually fit common nut sizes. I tested them on some loose bolts around the house and they gripped better than expected. The seatbelt cutter is sharp enough to slice through heavy fabric.

The main compromise is the opening action. The blade does not deploy as smoothly as a ball bearing pivot knife. After about fifty openings, the action loosened up and now opens reliably with a wrist flick. New owners should expect a brief break-in period.

Who should buy this

If you can only carry one knife and want maximum functionality, the FA48 is the clear winner. It works as an EDC, a glove box knife, a camping backup, and an emergency tool. For pure cutting tasks without the multi-tool features, the Smith & Wesson or Grand Way 0207 are lighter options.

7. Steinbrucke Tactical Knife — Best Reversible Carry

The Steinbrucke (sold under the Voltstorm brand) is the most lefty-friendly folder here. The reversible pocket clip can be mounted on either side without any disassembly beyond removing two screws, and the deployment works equally well in either hand. For southpaws tired of right-hand-biased knives, this is a real find.

The 8Cr13Mov stainless steel is the same family of steel used in many premium budget knives from CJRB and QSP. Hardened to 58-59 HRC, it balances edge retention with sharpenability better than the softer 3CR13 or 7Cr17Mov options. After a week of mixed cutting, the blade still passed the arm hair test.

Left-handed users on r/knives specifically recommend this knife as one of the best budget ambidextrous options. One reviewer noted that the thumb studs are perfectly positioned for either hand and the lock disengages smoothly from both sides. At this price point, true ambidextrous design is rare.

The antique finish on the blade is a love-it-or-leave-it feature. I liked the muted, non-reflective look, but some users prefer a polished blade. The aluminum handle is contoured for grip and the knife feels balanced in hand.

Everyday carry comfort

At 5.6 ounces, the Steinbrucke is lighter than the tactical Grand Way models but heavier than the compact Mossy Oak Mini. It sits in the middle of the pack for carry comfort. The clip is deep enough for concealed carry and grips pocket fabric securely without being too aggressive.

The seatbelt cutter and glass breaker built into the handle add emergency utility. I tested the seatbelt cutter on a heavy denim strip and it sliced through cleanly. These features do not add bulk to the handle.

Real user durability reports

Multiple reviewers on bladeforums.com mention using the Steinbrucke for over a year of daily carry with no lock failures or blade play developing. The 8Cr13Mov steel has a good reputation for toughness, and the aluminum handle holds up well to drops and pocket wear. If you want a knife that lasts, this one is a safe bet.

8. AOSILEY Pocket Folding Knife — Best Ultra Budget

At $7.99, the AOSILEY is the cheapest knife on this list and somehow still delivers real value. I was skeptical going in, but after three weeks of carrying it as my secondary knife, I came away impressed. The assisted opening fires reliably, the lock engages firmly, and the aluminum handle feels nicer than it has any right to at this price.

The stainless steel blade is not a premium alloy, but it sharpens easily and holds a working edge through daily tasks. I touched it up once a week during testing and it stayed sharp enough for cardboard, plastic strapping, and food prep. At this price, you cannot ask for more.

On r/BudgetBlades, the AOSILEY is frequently recommended as the “first knife” for someone just getting into EDC. The combination of low price and decent quality makes it a low-risk way to figure out what features you actually need before spending more. Several reviewers report gifting these to teenagers and new knife owners.

The main quality control issue is factory oil. My test unit arrived with enough oil on the blade and pivot to require a thorough cleaning before first use. This is not a defect, just a factory preservation measure, but new buyers should expect it.

Weight and carry

The AOSILEY is the lightest folder in this roundup, though the exact weight is not listed by the manufacturer. It feels lighter than the Mossy Oak Mini in hand and disappears in the pocket. For anyone who hates carrying weight, this knife is almost invisible.

The compact 7.7 inch overall length makes it legal in jurisdictions with knife length restrictions. The pocket clip is positioned for tip-up carry and grips fabric well. It is not reversible, so left-handed users should look elsewhere.

Limitations to accept

The blade steel is generic and will not hold an edge as long as 440C or 8Cr13Mov. The lock mechanism is a basic lockback that requires more force to disengage than a liner lock. For the price, these are acceptable compromises, but users upgrading from a $40 knife may notice them.

If you can spend a few dollars more, the GOOD WORKER or Steinbrucke offer better steel and locks. The AOSILEY makes sense for budget gift purchases, glove box knives, or anyone who needs a functional folder at the lowest possible price.

9. Grand Way 6495 B — Best All-Around Aluminum Folder

The Grand Way 6495 is the knife I recommend most often when someone asks for a single budget folder that does everything well. The 440C blade is harder than the 7Cr17Mov or 3CR13 found on cheaper knives, the aluminum handle is durable, and the liner lock is solid. It is not the lightest or the cheapest, but it is reliable.

At 5.64 ounces, the 6495 has a substantial feel that some users love and others find heavy. I appreciated the extra heft during cutting tasks because it made the knife feel planted in the hand. For desk carry or backpack carry, the weight is fine. For front pocket carry, you will notice it.

Gift buyers on r/EDC frequently recommend Grand Way folders because they look more expensive than they are. The 6495 has clean lines, a glass breaker for emergency appeal, and comes in multiple color options. At $9.99, it makes an excellent stocking stuffer or office Secret Santa gift.

The main annoyance is the pocket clip. It ships uninstalled and requires the included screws and a small screwdriver to attach. The first time took me about five minutes. After that, swapping the clip between knives is easy.

Build quality and finishing

The aluminum handle is smooth but not slippery. The blade sits perfectly centered when closed, and there is no lateral play in any direction when open. These small details matter because they indicate the manufacturer cared about tolerances, not just hitting a price point.

The thumb studs are well positioned and the liner lock disengages with one hand. After a month of carry, the action remained smooth without developing the grittiness that plagues some budget folders.

Where this knife excels

The 6495 is a great all-around folder for someone who does not want to overthink their EDC choice. It opens easily, locks securely, cuts well, and looks good. If you are buying your first “real” pocket knife and want something under $10, this is a safe starting point.

10. FLISSA Folding Rescue Knife — Best for Emergency Kits

The FLISSA rescue knife stands out for two reasons: it uses an axis-style lock instead of a liner lock, and it carries a 4.7 star average across nearly a thousand reviews. The axis lock is a major upgrade at this price point because it engages equally well from either side of the blade and is far less likely to fail under stress than a thin liner.

I tested the FLISSA alongside several liner lock folders and the axis lock was noticeably more secure. There was zero blade play in any direction, even when I applied lateral pressure to the blade tip. For anyone who has had a liner lock fail on them, this knife is worth the slight premium.

Reviewers on r/EDC consistently call out the axis lock as the main selling point. One user mentioned switching from a liner lock folder to the FLISSA specifically for the lock reliability during tactical training. The knife held up through hundreds of deployments without developing play.

The nylon and fiberglass handle is lightweight and grippy, even with wet hands. At 4.75 inches folded, it is compact enough for a glove box or trauma kit, and the seatbelt cutter and glass breaker add real emergency utility.

Axis lock advantages

The axis lock uses a spring-loaded bar that slides into a notch on the blade when open. To close, you pull the bar back and the knife folds. Both left and right handed users can operate it identically, and there is no bending metal under stress like a liner lock.

The downside is that axis locks have more parts that can wear out over time. After a year of heavy use, the spring might weaken and require replacement. For typical EDC use, though, this is a non-issue for years.

Best applications

The FLISSA makes an excellent glove box knife, emergency vehicle kit addition, or backup for outdoor adventures. The combination of axis lock reliability, safety features, and lightweight build is hard to match under $25. For everyday office carry, the partially serrated blade might be more than you need.

What to Look For in a Budget Pocket Knife

Choosing the best pocket knife under $25 means understanding which features actually matter and which are just marketing. After testing all ten knives on this list, I narrowed the important factors down to four: steel type, lock mechanism, handle material, and opening style.

Blade steel comparison

The steel matters more than any other spec because it determines how long your knife stays sharp and how easy it is to resharpen. Most knives under $25 use Chinese stainless like 3CR13, 7Cr17Mov, or 440C. Each has trade-offs.

3CR13 is the cheapest and softest. It sharpens in seconds but dulls within a week of regular use. 7Cr17Mov is a step up with better corrosion resistance and slightly better edge retention. 440C is the hardest of the common budget steels and holds an edge noticeably longer, though it takes more effort to sharpen. The NedFoss and Steinbrucke use 8Cr13Mov and 8Cr14Mov, which are even better and approach mid-tier performance.

For a beginner, 7Cr17Mov or 440C is the sweet spot. Anything softer will frustrate you with constant sharpening. Anything harder usually costs more than $25. If you want to learn more about steel grades, our fixed blade knife guide covers premium steels in more depth.

Lock mechanisms explained

The lock is what keeps the blade open during use. A bad lock is dangerous and a dealbreaker regardless of price. There are four common types in this price range.

Liner locks are the most common. A thin metal liner inside the handle slides under the blade to lock it open. They work but can wear out or disengage under heavy lateral pressure. Frame locks are stronger because they use a portion of the handle itself. The NedFoss FA48 uses a beefy frame lock rated to 1500N.

Lockbacks are traditional and reliable, common on slip joint and classic folders. They require two hands to close. Axis locks (like on the FLISSA) are the most secure and ambidextrous but use more parts. For most users, a solid liner lock or frame lock is fine. If lock reliability is your top priority, pay extra for an axis lock.

Handle materials and grip

Handle material affects weight, grip, and durability. Aluminum is the most common at this price. It is lightweight and durable but can be slippery when wet. G10 (fiberglass laminate) is grippy and light. Wood (like the Grand Way 0207 rosewood) looks great but requires occasional oiling.

For pure utility, aluminum or G10 handles are best. Wood is for aesthetics and gifts. Plastic handles are the cheapest but feel cheap. For more on what makes a good EDC knife, our everyday carry pocket knife guide breaks down handle ergonomics in detail.

Opening mechanisms

How a knife opens matters for one-handed use. Thumb studs are the most common and work with either hand. Flippers are tabs on the blade that you press back to deploy. Spring assisted knives (like several Grand Way models) add a spring that snaps the blade open after you start the motion.

For ambidextrous use, thumb studs are the safest bet. Flippers are faster once you learn the motion but harder for lefties. Spring assist is fast and fun but inconsistent on cheaper knives. If you carry a knife in your dominant hand and want the fastest deployment, a flipper or assisted knife is worth prioritizing. For our broader picks across price ranges, see our pocket knife guide under $200.

Real user experiences

Across r/BudgetBlades, r/knives, and r/EDC, the most common praise for budget knives centers on lock reliability and edge retention. Users consistently report that Smith & Wesson, Ontario, Buck, and Grand Way deliver the most consistent quality at the lowest prices. The most common complaints involve pocket clip stiffness and factory oil residue, both minor issues that resolve with use.

One thread on r/EDC asked “What is the absolute best budget pocket knife on the market?” and the top voted answer was the Ontario Rat 1 or Rat 2, which sits just above our $25 cutoff but is worth mentioning. For knives strictly under $25, the Smith & Wesson SWA24S was the most recommended in the comments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which Budget Folder Should You Buy?

After three months of testing these ten knives, the Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops SWA24S remains my top pick for the best pocket knife under $25. The combination of proven durability across 52k+ reviews, decent 7Cr17Mov steel, and an ergonomic aluminum handle is hard to beat at the price. For most people, this is the knife to buy.

If you want something prettier or with better steel, the Grand Way 0207 with its rosewood handle and 440C blade is the runner up. For pure value at the lowest price, the AOSILEY delivers real performance at $7.99. And if you need maximum versatility with a frame lock and multi-tool features, the NedFoss FA48 is the most capable folder in this roundup.

The best pocket knives under $25 in 2026 prove you do not need to spend a fortune to get a reliable cutting tool. Stick to the proven brands we covered, avoid the no-name mystery steel options on marketplace listings, and you will end up with a knife that performs far better than its price suggests. For more options across different price ranges, browse our guides to pocket knives for men and specialty knives.