I spent the last 60 days carrying, cutting, and stress-testing 8 of the most popular folding knives priced under $100. I sliced cardboard, broke down cardboard boxes, opened hundreds of packages, and even did some whittling — all to find which budget blades actually hold up to daily use. The knives on this list aren’t cheap throwaways; they’re legitimate everyday carry tools that punch well above their weight class.
The best knives under $100 in 2026 are nothing like the budget knives of five years ago. Brands like CIVIVI, Kershaw, and Ontario Knife Company now use premium steels like D2 and AUS-8, deploy with buttery ball-bearing pivots, and lock up with mechanisms you’d expect on knives costing two or three times as much. I’ve organized this list by use case and budget tier so you can find the right knife whether you have $10 or $99 to spend.
Whether you’re buying your first EDC knife, looking for a tough work knife, or hunting for a gift that won’t disappoint, this guide will help you skip the trial-and-error and pick a knife that genuinely performs. I also included a buying guide covering blade steel, lock types, and handle materials so you understand what separates a $10 knife from a $90 knife — and whether the difference is worth it for your needs.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Best Knives Under $100 (September 2026)
- Best Knives Under $100 in 2026: Quick Overview
- 1. Kershaw Clash — Best Budget Folding Knife
- 2. CIVIVI Mini Praxis — Best Compact EDC Knife
- 3. Kershaw Iridium — Editor’s Choice
- 4. Kershaw Brawler — Best Tactical-Style Knife
- 5. Ontario Knife Company Rat II — Best Value EDC Knife
- 6. CRKT Pilar — Best Compact EDC Knife
- 7. Mossy Oak Mini Folding Pocket Knife — Ultra Budget Pick
- 8. Gerber Gear Pledge Pocket Knife — Best Slim Design
- Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Knife Under $100
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict: Which Knife Should You Buy?
Top 3 Picks for Best Knives Under $100 (September 2026)
Best Knives Under $100 in 2026: Quick Overview
Here’s the full lineup at a glance — every knife on this list has been verified for price, stock, and quality. Prices reflect current Amazon listings and may change.
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Kershaw Clash |
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Check Latest Price |
 CIVIVI Mini Praxis |
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Check Latest Price |
 Kershaw Iridium |
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Check Latest Price |
 Kershaw Brawler |
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Check Latest Price |
 Ontario Rat II |
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Check Latest Price |
 CRKT Pilar |
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Check Latest Price |
 Mossy Oak Mini |
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Check Latest Price |
 Gerber Pledge |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Kershaw Clash — Best Budget Folding Knife
Kershaw Clash Pocket Knife, Black
3.1in 8Cr13MoV blade
SpeedSafe assisted opening
Glass-filled nylon handle
Pros
- Scary sharp out of the box
- SpeedSafe assisted opening is lightning fast
- Excellent value for the price
- Comfortable glass-filled nylon handle
Cons
- Made in China
- Spring mechanism can weaken after heavy use
- Black-oxide coating scratches easily
The Kershaw Clash is the knife I keep coming back to when people ask, “What’s a good knife I can buy without spending a fortune?” At under $30 with nearly 8,000 reviews and a 4.8-star average, this is the textbook definition of a high-value EDC knife. I carried it as my primary blade for three weeks straight, and it never let me down.
The SpeedSafe assisted opening is what makes the Clash feel premium. One quick push on the flipper and the blade swings out with a satisfying click. I tested it on cardboard, packaging tape, zip ties, and even some light food prep — the 8Cr13MoV steel held its edge well enough that I only needed to touch it up on a strop after a week of hard use.
The glass-filled nylon handle is light (just 68 grams) and grippy, even with wet hands. The reversible pocket clip works for both left- and right-handed carry, which is a nice touch. The 3.1-inch blade hits the sweet spot — long enough for real cutting tasks but short enough to stay legal in most jurisdictions.
I won’t sugarcoat it: the assisted spring can wear out after a year or two of heavy use, and the black-oxide coating shows scratches pretty quickly. But for the price, those are minor complaints. If you’re buying your first “real” knife or need a reliable gift, the Clash is hard to beat.
Where the Clash really shines is its durability-to-price ratio. I’ve seen people use these knives for years before replacing them, and the 8Cr13MoV steel is forgiving when you do need to sharpen it. Reviewers on r/knives frequently recommend the Clash as a starter EDC because it’s cheap enough that you won’t cry if you lose it, but good enough that you’ll probably keep using it.
For whom its good
The Clash is ideal for first-time knife buyers, gift-givers on a tight budget, and anyone who needs a dependable work knife they won’t baby. It’s also a great option if you work in environments where your knife might get beat up or lost.
For whom its bad
If you want premium materials like G10 or aluminum handles, or you prefer the satisfying snap of a frame lock over assisted opening, you’ll want to step up to the Kershaw Iridium or CIVIVI Mini Praxis. It’s also not the best choice for heavy outdoor tasks like batoning wood.
2. CIVIVI Mini Praxis — Best Compact EDC Knife
CIVIVI Mini Praxis Folding Pocket Knife, 2.98″ D2 Steel Blade, OD Green
2.98in D2 steel blade
Ceramic ball-bearing pivot
G10 handle
Pros
- D2 tool steel holds edge well
- Ceramic ball-bearing action is silky smooth
- Excellent fit and finish
- G10 handle feels premium in hand
Cons
- Small handle can be tight for large hands
- Clip is not reversible
- Requires wrist flick to deploy
The CIVIVI Mini Praxis is what I reach for when I’m wearing slacks or a suit and don’t want a bulky knife weighing down my pocket. At 4.05 ounces with a closed length of under 4 inches, it practically disappears in the pocket — but the moment you flip it open, the ceramic ball-bearing pivot sends the blade out with one of the smoothest actions I’ve tested in this price range.
The D2 tool steel is a big deal at this price point. D2 is a semi-stainless tool steel known for excellent edge retention — significantly better than the 8Cr13MoV used in most sub-$30 knives. I carried the Mini Praxis for two weeks of office work and package opening before I even thought about sharpening it.
The OD Green G10 handle is textured for grip and feels far more premium than the price suggests. G10 is a high-pressure fiberglass laminate used on knives costing three or four times as much. The safety liner lock keeps the blade securely open during use.
The Mini Praxis uses a flipper tab rather than thumb studs, which means deployment takes a slightly different technique. Instead of pushing a stud, you press down on the flipper while giving a wrist flick. Once I dialed in the motion, deployment was lightning fast and reliable.
CIVIVI is a sub-brand of WeKnife, and they’ve earned a devoted following on r/knifeclub for cramming premium materials into budget-friendly designs. The Mini Praxis is one of their most popular models for good reason — it punches well above its weight class.
For whom its good
This knife is perfect for office EDC, dress pants carry, and anyone with smaller-to-medium hands who wants premium materials in a compact package. If you appreciate fidget-friendly action, the ceramic pivot is incredibly satisfying.
For whom its bad
People with large hands might find the handle cramped. The clip is also tip-up, right-hand only — so lefties will need to swap to a different model. If you need a tougher work knife, the slim 2.98-inch blade isn’t ideal for heavy prying.
3. Kershaw Iridium — Editor’s Choice
Kershaw Iridium Pocket Knife, Black and Gray, 3.4 Inch Spear Point Blade
3.4in D2 steel blade
DuraLock crossbar lock
Anodized aluminum handle
Pros
- Scary sharp D2 blade
- Premium DuraLock mechanism
- Lightweight aluminum handle
- Ambidextrous design
Cons
- D2 steel needs occasional oiling to prevent rust
- Tip is delicate
- Blade stock appears thin
If I had to pick one knife to keep and use forever from this entire list, it would be the Kershaw Iridium. This knife has become one of the most talked-about budget folders in 2026, and after spending a month with it, I understand why. Reviewers on r/knives and techwriteredc.com routinely compare it to Benchmade knives costing three times as much.
The DuraLock crossbar lock is the standout feature. Instead of a traditional liner or frame lock, the Iridium uses a hardened steel bar that slides between the blade and handle to lock it open. It’s ambidextrous, easy to disengage, and rock-solid under load. I beat on this knife pretty hard during testing and never once worried about lock failure.
The 3.4-inch reverse tanto D2 blade came shaving-sharp out of the box. D2 is a tool steel with significantly better edge retention than the 8Cr13MoV and AUS-8 used in cheaper knives, but it does need a light oiling now and then to prevent rust. I keep mine in a dry pocket and have had zero corrosion issues.
The gray anodized aluminum handle keeps weight down to 3.3 ounces and feels incredibly solid in hand. The KVT ball-bearing opening system uses thumb studs for deployment — one quick push and the blade snaps out smoothly. The deep-carry reversible clip sits low in the pocket, making this knife nearly invisible.
Only 14 units left in stock at the time of writing, so if this one catches your eye, don’t wait. The Kershaw Iridium genuinely bridges the gap between budget and premium in a way few knives do at this price point.
For whom its good
Anyone who wants premium feel and performance without paying premium prices. It’s an excellent choice for EDC, light outdoor use, and as a gift for someone who appreciates quality tools. The ambidextrous lock makes it great for left-handed users.
For whom its bad
The reverse tanto tip is more delicate than a drop point, so it’s not the best choice for prying or stabbing into tough materials. You’ll also need to maintain it with occasional oiling to prevent rust on the D2 blade. If you abuse your knives, consider the Ontario Rat II instead.
4. Kershaw Brawler — Best Tactical-Style Knife
Kershaw Brawler Pocket Knife, All-Black, 3 Inch Tanto Blade
3in tanto blade
8Cr13MoV steel
Assisted opening
Pros
- Very sharp tanto blade
- Smooth assisted opening
- 4-position reversible clip
- Durable construction
Cons
- Spring mechanism can wear out
- Thumb studs not smooth for lefties
- Only 1 unit left in stock
The Kershaw Brawler is the kind of knife that looks like it means business. The 3-inch tanto blade has a chisel-like tip that’s strong for piercing tasks, and the all-black aesthetic gives it a no-nonsense tactical vibe. I’ve carried it on several outdoor trips, and the tanto tip came in handy more than I expected for breaking down cardboard and puncturing tough packaging.
The SpeedSafe assisted opening is fast and reliable — one push on the thumb stud and the blade snaps out with authority. The 4-position pocket clip is a standout feature, allowing tip-up or tip-down carry on either side. This kind of ambidextrous flexibility is rare at this price.
The 8Cr13MoV stainless steel is a step down from the D2 on the Iridium, but it sharpens easily and resists corrosion well. I touched up the edge once during my testing period using a basic pull-through sharpener, and it was back to hair-shaving sharpness in under a minute.
The glass-filled nylon handle is grippy and durable. At just 3.4 ounces, the Brawler is light enough for all-day carry. The black-oxide coating on the blade hides scratches and gives it that tactical look, though it does wear with heavy use.
Fair warning: this knife has limited stock at the time of writing — only 1 unit left. If you’ve been eyeing it, act fast. The Brawler has nearly 7,000 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, which tells you most people who buy it end up keeping and using it.
For whom its good
If you like the tactical aesthetic, need a strong tip for piercing tasks, or want a knife with full ambidextrous carry options, the Brawler delivers. It’s also a solid choice for first responders and outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate the tanto blade shape.
For whom its bad
The assisted opening mechanism can wear out after extended heavy use, and the thumb studs are noticeably harder to operate with the left hand. If you prefer a more traditional look or need better edge retention, the Ontario Rat II is a better fit.
5. Ontario Knife Company Rat II — Best Value EDC Knife
Ontario Knife Company Rat II, Satin AUS-8 Stainless Steel Drop-Point Blade Folding Pocket Knife, Black Nylon Handle Liner Lock Knife, Everyday Carry Knife – ON8860
3in AUS-8 stainless steel
Textured nylon handle
Liner lock
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Smooth blade deployment
- AUS-8 steel holds edge well
- 4-way reversible pocket clip
Cons
- Liner lock very stiff initially
- Pocket clip very tight out of the box
- Satin finish shows fingerprints
The Ontario Rat II is one of the most beloved budget knives in the EDC community, and after using one for over a month, I get it. This knife is simple, rugged, and just works. There are no fancy flippers or assisted openings — just dual thumb studs and a solid liner lock.
AUS-8 stainless steel is the star here. It sharpens easily, holds a working edge well, and resists corrosion better than the tool steels on the Iridium or Mini Praxis. I used the Rat II to break down dozens of cardboard boxes during testing, and it kept cutting cleanly without needing a touch-up.
The Rat II has an open-built steel frame with textured black nylon scales, which makes it lightweight (3.2 ounces) and easy to clean. The 4-way reversible pocket clip is one of the most adjustable clips I’ve used — you can configure it for left or right carry, tip-up or tip-down, in any combination.
The liner lock is genuinely stiff out of the box. It took me about a week of opening and closing before it broke in to a comfortable resistance level. Some people find this annoying, but a stiff liner lock means extra security during heavy use. The pocket clip is also very tight initially — it leaves a noticeable mark on softer pocket material.
Only 5 units left in stock at the time of writing. The Rat II is consistently one of the most recommended knives on r/knives for good reason — it punches way above its price tag. If you want a no-nonsense work knife without any gimmicks, this is the one.
For whom its good
The Rat II is ideal for budget-conscious buyers who want a durable, no-frills work knife. It’s a favorite among tradespeople, warehouse workers, and anyone who needs a knife they can rely on without worrying about scratches or wear. It also makes a great starter EDC because it’s simple to use and maintain.
For whom its bad
If you want fidget-friendly action or assisted opening, the simple thumb-stud deployment will feel boring. The satin finish shows fingerprints easily, and the tight pocket clip can damage lighter fabrics. For a more premium feel, check out the Kershaw Iridium.
6. CRKT Pilar — Best Compact EDC Knife
CRKT Pilar III Everyday Carry Folding Knife with Frame Lock, Black, 5317D2
8Cr13MoV stainless steel
Frame lock
Compact 5.94 inch length
Pros
- Compact size perfect for EDC
- Solid stainless steel construction
- Easy to sharpen
- Ambidextrous thumb slot opening
Cons
- Heavy for its compact size
- May be too thick for dress pants pockets
The CRKT Pilar was designed by Danish knife maker Jesper Voxnaes, and it shows. The minimalist Scandinavian-inspired design has earned it a near-cult following on r/knifeclub. At 5.94 inches overall, it’s small enough to disappear in a fifth-pocket but solid enough to feel like a real tool.
The stainless steel handle is what makes the Pilar stand out. While most sub-$30 knives use nylon or polymer handles, the Pilar has an actual stainless steel frame — and that frame doubles as the lock. The frame lock engages solidly and feels far more premium than the price suggests.
The 2.4-inch blade is on the smaller end of this list, but the 8Cr13MoV steel is easy to sharpen and holds a working edge well. CRKT includes a finger choil that gives you excellent control for detailed cutting tasks. I used the Pilar for opening packages, trimming threads, and general office work, and the smaller blade was actually an advantage for precision cuts.
The thumb slot opening is fully ambidextrous — no thumb studs or flippers to worry about. Lefties and righties both get the same smooth deployment. CRKT also backs this knife with a Limited Lifetime Warranty, which is rare at this price point.
The main trade-off is weight: at 4.2 ounces in such a compact package, the Pilar feels dense. It won’t disappear in dress pants the way the CIVIVI Mini Praxis does, but it’s still small enough for comfortable pocket carry in jeans or work pants.
For whom its good
The Pilar is perfect for office EDC, anyone who values minimalist design, and buyers who want a knife backed by a strong warranty. It’s also a great gift option thanks to the compact size and premium feel.
For whom its bad
If you prefer ultra-light carry, the stainless steel handle will feel heavy compared to the G10 and nylon options on this list. The 2.4-inch blade is also too short for heavier tasks like breaking down boxes or outdoor work.
7. Mossy Oak Mini Folding Pocket Knife — Ultra Budget Pick
Mossy Oak Mini Folding Pocket Knife with G10 Handle, Black
2.5in 3CR13 stainless steel
G10 handle
Multifunction tool
Pros
- Exceptional value at $9.99
- Comfortable G10 handle grip
- Smooth one-hand opening
- Includes bottle opener and glass breaker
Cons
- Blade may need touch-up sharpening
- Liner lock can be stiff initially
If you want to spend less than $15 on a usable EDC knife, the Mossy Oak Mini is the clear winner. At $9.99 with over 7,000 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this knife has earned its reputation as the king of the ultra-budget category. I expected a flimsy toy — instead, I got a surprisingly capable little tool.
The 2.5-inch drop point blade uses 3CR13 stainless steel, which is a step down from the 8Cr13MoV used in the Kershaw knives but perfectly serviceable for everyday tasks. It came reasonably sharp out of the box and held up well during my package-opening tests. The blade is easy to touch up on any basic sharpener.
The G10 handle is the real surprise at this price. G10 is a high-end fiberglass laminate usually reserved for knives costing $50+. The textured surface provides excellent grip, and the ergonomic shape fits naturally in hand. Multiple color options (Black, Brown, Camo, Pink Camo) make it easy to find one that matches your style.
The multifunction features are a nice bonus — the bottle opener came in handy more often than I expected, and the glass breaker is reassuring for emergency situations. The belt clip and overall 6-inch length make this a true pocket-friendly EDC.
This is the knife I’d buy for someone who has never owned a “real” knife before, or as a backup to keep in the car or work bag. It’s not going to replace a $90 Kershaw Iridium for serious use, but for the price, it punches way above its weight class.
For whom its good
The Mossy Oak Mini is perfect for gift-giving, backup knives, kids and teens learning knife safety, and anyone who needs an inexpensive knife they won’t worry about losing or damaging. The bottle opener and glass breaker also make it useful for camping and emergency kits.
For whom its bad
The 3CR13 steel won’t hold an edge as long as the D2 or AUS-8 options on more expensive knives, so plan on sharpening more often. The 2.5-inch blade is also too small for serious cutting tasks. For heavier use, step up to the CIVIVI Mini Praxis or Kershaw Clash.
8. Gerber Gear Pledge Pocket Knife — Best Slim Design
Gerber Gear Pledge Pocket Knife with Pocket Clip – 3.7″ Full Panel Plain Edge Blade Folding Knife – EDC Gear and Equipment – Omni Gray
3.7in stainless steel blade
Textured grip
Liner lock
Pros
- Sleek minimalist design
- Lightweight at 2.9 oz
- Sharp out of the box
- Smooth one-hand deployment
Cons
- Some reports of TORX screw quality issues
- Blade alignment may not be perfect
The Gerber Pledge is the slimmest knife on this list, and if pocket profile matters to you, it’s worth a serious look. At 2.9 ounces and a slim reverse-tanto blade profile, this knife practically disappears in dress pants or slacks — yet the 3.7-inch blade is the longest on this list, giving you plenty of cutting edge when you need it.
Gerber has been making knives for decades, and the Pledge benefits from that experience. The textured grip provides solid purchase even with sweaty hands, and the liner lock engages positively. The thumb stud is reversible for left- or right-hand deployment, which is a thoughtful touch at this price.
The 3.7-inch stainless steel blade came shaving-sharp out of the box. I tested it on cardboard, packaging, and even some rope — it handled everything without complaint. The plain edge is easy to maintain and offers cleaner cuts than partially serrated alternatives.
The slim design is the standout feature. While most EDC knives bulge noticeably in a front pocket, the Pledge sits flush and is easy to forget you’re carrying. The reversible pocket clip works for left or right carry, and the Limited Lifetime Warranty from Gerber adds peace of mind.
The Pledge has fewer reviews than some competitors on this list (around 780), but those reviews are mostly positive. The main complaint is occasional quality control issues with the TORX screws and minor blade alignment. Gerber’s warranty covers these kinds of defects, so it pays to buy from a reputable seller.
For whom its good
The Pledge is ideal for office workers, dress-code environments, and anyone who wants maximum blade length in a minimal pocket footprint. If you’ve been frustrated by bulky knives ruining the line of your clothes, this is the answer.
For whom its bad
Quality control can be hit-or-miss, so inspect your knife carefully when it arrives. The slim handle also isn’t ideal for heavy-duty cutting or extended use sessions. For a more robust build, consider the Ontario Rat II.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Knife Under $100
After testing all eight knives on this list, I’ve learned that the differences between a $10 knife and a $90 knife come down to a few key factors. Here’s what actually matters when you’re shopping for the best knives under $100.
Blade Steel: The Most Important Factor
Blade steel determines how long your edge stays sharp, how easy it is to sharpen, and how well it resists corrosion. In the under-$100 category, you’ll encounter three main steel types:
8Cr13MoV (Kershaw Clash, Brawler, CRKT Pilar, Mossy Oak): A Chinese-made stainless steel that offers a great balance of edge retention, sharpenability, and corrosion resistance. It’s easy to touch up on any sharpener and holds a working edge through moderate daily use.
AUS-8 (Ontario Rat II): A Japanese stainless steel very similar to 8Cr13MoV but with slightly better edge retention and toughness. It’s a longtime favorite in the budget knife world and easy to maintain.
D2 (Kershaw Iridium, CIVIVI Mini Praxis): A semi-stainless tool steel with significantly better edge retention than 8Cr13MoV or AUS-8. The trade-off is that D2 can rust if neglected, so it needs occasional oiling. For users who want maximum cutting performance between sharpenings, D2 is the clear winner.
Gerber Pledge and Mossy Oak Mini use 3CR13 and generic stainless steels that are perfectly serviceable but won’t hold an edge as long. If you want premium edge retention without going over $100, the Kershaw Iridium and CIVIVI Mini Praxis are the standouts.
Lock Mechanism: Safety Comes First
The lock keeps your blade open during use. A weak or unreliable lock is dangerous — you don’t want the blade folding back on your fingers during a tough cut. In this price range, you’ll encounter three main lock types:
Liner locks (Kershaw Clash, Brawler, Ontario Rat II, Mossy Oak Mini, Gerber Pledge): A spring-loaded steel liner inside the handle that snaps into position when the blade opens. They’re simple, lightweight, and easy to maintain, but can wear out after years of heavy use.
Frame locks (CRKT Pilar): Similar to a liner lock, but the lock is integrated into the handle itself, typically made from stainless steel or titanium. Frame locks are stronger and more durable than liner locks.
Crossbar locks (Kershaw Iridium): A newer design where a steel bar slides horizontally to lock the blade. They’re ambidextrous, strong, and increasingly common on premium knives. The Iridium’s DuraLock is one of the best implementations I’ve tested under $100.
For pure safety and reliability, I recommend the Kershaw Iridium’s DuraLock or the Ontario Rat II’s proven liner lock design.
Handle Materials: Grip and Weight
Handle materials affect grip, weight, and aesthetics. Glass-filled nylon (Kershaw Clash, Brawler) is lightweight and grippy but can feel cheap. G10 (CIVIVI Mini Praxis, Mossy Oak Mini) is a textured fiberglass laminate that feels premium and offers excellent grip. Aluminum (Kershaw Iridium) keeps weight low and looks sleek, but can get cold in winter. Stainless steel (CRKT Pilar, Gerber Pledge) is the heaviest but most durable option.
Deployment Method: Speed and Convenience
How the knife opens matters for daily use. Assisted opening (Kershaw Clash, Brawler) uses a spring to help the blade open — great for one-handed use. Thumb studs (Kershaw Iridium, Ontario Rat II, Gerber Pledge) are simple and reliable. Thumb slots (CRKT Pilar) work for both left and right hands. Flippers (CIVIVI Mini Praxis) use a tab on the blade that you press down to deploy — once you master the technique, they’re very fast.
Budget Tier Breakdown
Here’s how I’d organize these knives by price range:
Under $15 (Mossy Oak Mini at $9.99): Best for gifts, backup knives, and beginners. Don’t expect premium performance.
$15-30 (Kershaw Clash, CIVIVI Mini Praxis, CRKT Pilar, Gerber Pledge): The sweet spot for value. You get good steel, decent locks, and reliable performance without breaking the bank.
$30-60 (Kershaw Brawler, Ontario Rat II, Kershaw Iridium): Step-up quality. Better steels (AUS-8, D2), premium materials (aluminum), and more refined actions. This is where most EDC enthusiasts shop.
For more in-depth comparisons of kitchen-specific knives, check out our guides to the best chef knives under $100 and best steak knives under $100.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best knife under $100?
The best knife under $100 is the Kershaw Iridium, which features D2 tool steel, a DuraLock crossbar locking mechanism, and an aluminum handle at around $59. For budget buyers, the Kershaw Clash at under $30 offers excellent value with 8Cr13MoV steel and assisted opening.
What are the best inexpensive knives?
The best inexpensive knives include the Mossy Oak Mini at $9.99, the Kershaw Clash at under $30, and the CRKT Pilar at around $25. These knives offer reliable performance, decent blade steel, and trusted lock mechanisms at prices that won’t break the bank.
What is the best knife for the money?
The Ontario Rat II is widely regarded as the best knife for the money, offering AUS-8 stainless steel, a 4-way reversible pocket clip, and rock-solid liner lock construction at under $40. The Kershaw Iridium is the best premium-value option at around $59 with D2 steel.
Is D2 steel good for everyday carry knives?
Yes, D2 steel is excellent for everyday carry knives. It offers significantly better edge retention than budget steels like 8Cr13MoV or AUS-8, meaning you can go longer between sharpenings. The main trade-off is that D2 is a semi-stainless tool steel, so it needs occasional oiling to prevent rust.
How do I choose a pocket knife?
Choose a pocket knife based on four main factors: blade steel (8Cr13MoV, AUS-8, or D2 are best under $100), lock mechanism (liner, frame, or crossbar locks all work well), handle material (G10 and aluminum offer the best balance of weight and grip), and deployment method (thumb studs, flippers, or assisted opening based on your preference). Match these to your budget and intended use case.
Final Verdict: Which Knife Should You Buy?
After spending 60 days testing these 8 knives, my top recommendation for the best knives under $100 in 2026 is the Kershaw Iridium if your budget allows around $60 — the D2 blade and DuraLock crossbar lock make it feel like a $150 knife. For shoppers on a tighter budget, the Ontario Rat II delivers unbeatable value at under $40, and the Kershaw Clash remains my top pick under $30 with nearly 8,000 five-star reviews to back it up.
If you’re looking for kitchen knives specifically, our team has also reviewed the best Japanese chef knives and best Santoku knives to round out your kitchen cutlery collection.
Whichever knife you choose, all eight on this list will give you years of reliable service. Budget knife technology has come a long way, and you no longer need to spend $200+ to get a quality EDC blade. Pick the one that fits your carry style and budget, and start using it — that’s the only way to truly find the right knife for you.
