Looking for quality without breaking the bank? Discover my top picks for budget-friendly best pocket knives under $100 that have earned their place in my rotation over the past couple of months. Whether you’re a collector or simply in need of a new everyday carry.
These knives have impressed me with their performance, design, and value, making them standout choices for everyday carry enthusiasts. Let’s explore why these knives have earned their spot in my pocket.
1) Kizer Mad Tanto
The Kizer Mad Tanto has a unique Tanto blade made from tough 154CM steel, known for staying sharp and durable. Its deep Hollow grind makes it great for slicing and piercing.
The handle is shaped for a comfortable grip, and it has a deep carry pocket clip for secure and discreet carrying. Originally designed as a flipper-only knife, adding a quick stud has made it more versatile, allowing for different ways to open it.
Whether you like using the flipper or thumb studs, this knife performs well for cutting tasks. Its strong build and smooth operation make it popular among those who want both practicality and style in their everyday carry gear.
Specs
Blade Material: Alloy 154CM Steel 154CM
Handle Material: Micarta
Blade Length: 3.31″(84mm)
Overall Length: 8.07″
Brand: Kizer
Pros
✅Durable 154CM steel
✅Unique Tanto blade shape for slicing and piercing
✅Comfortable ergonomic handle
✅Deep carry pocket clip
Cons
⛔Heavy for some user
⛔Requires regular maintenance
2) SENCUT Omniform
The Sencut Omniform is a versatile and affordable everyday carry knife known for its comfortable design. Its full flat ground blade, made from 9Cr18MoV steel, offers strong cutting ability and durability.
The handle features textured G10 scales for a secure grip, even in tough conditions. It includes a quick stud for easy one-handed opening, making it convenient for various tasks.
This knife is favored by users who need a dependable tool that balances performance with affordability.
Specs
Blade Material: 9Cr18MoV
Handle Material: Wood
Blade Length: 3.65″
Overall Length: 8.55″
Brand: SENCUT
Pros
✅Versatile and ergonomic design
✅Good slicing performance with 9Cr18MoV steel
✅Secure grip with textured G10 handle
✅Quick stud for easy opening
Cons
⛔Steel may need frequent sharpening
3) Vosteed Raccoon
The Vosteed Raccoon is known for its unique top liner lock mechanism, which combines security with ease of use. It has a 14C28N blade and a lightweight Micarta handle, blending durability with comfort.
The top liner lock includes a release button for smooth closure, making it reliable in any situation. Designed for practicality, it features a deep carry pocket clip and ergonomic design, making it popular among knife enthusiasts for everyday use in both urban and outdoor environments.
Specs
Blade Material: 14C28N
Handle Material: Micarta
Blade Length: 3.25 Inches
Overall Length: 7.6″
Brand: Vosteed
Pros
✅Innovative top liner lock for security and ease
✅Durable 14C20N blade
✅Lightweight Micarta handle for comfort
✅Smooth operation with release button
✅Deep carry pocket clip for convenience
Cons
⛔May be small for some users
⛔Blade steel may require more frequent sharpening
4) CIVIVI Starflare
The CIVIVI Starflare is designed for easy everyday carrying with aluminum scales and a stainless steel blade. It’s lightweight and perfect for various situations.
Its needle-like tip and full flat grind blade offer precise cutting, great for detailed tasks. The button lock ensures the blade stays secure, and the reversible deep carry clip adds convenience.
It’s popular for its durability, lightweight feel, and ease of use, making it ideal for urban settings and everyday tasks.
Specs
Blade Material: Nitro-V
Handle Material: Aluminum
Blade Length: 3.30″
Overall Length: 7.91″
Brand: CIVIVI
Pros
✅Lightweight aluminum scales
✅Durable stainless steel blade
✅Needle-like tip for precision
✅Full flat grind for efficient cutting
✅Secure button lock mechanism
✅Reversible deep carry pocket clip
Cons
⛔Handle may feel cold or slippery in extreme weather
⛔Blade steel might require frequent sharpening
5) SENCUT Borzam
The SENCUT Borzam is known for its affordability and practicality, featuring a durable 9Cr18MoV stainless steel blade and comfortable G10 handle scales.
It uses a secure liner lock for safe blade deployment and includes a reversible deep carry pocket clip for easy carrying. Popular among budget-conscious users, the SENCUT Borzam offers reliable performance with its edge retention and corrosion resistance.
Its lightweight design and ergonomic shape ensure it’s comfortable for everyday tasks like cutting, box opening, and detailed work, making it a versatile and cost-effective choice.
Specs
Blade Material: 9Cr18MoV
Handle Material: G-10
Blade Length: 3.46″
Overall Length: 8.22″
Brand: SENCUT
Pros
✅Affordable with good functionality
✅Durable 9Cr18MoV stainless steel blade
✅Comfortable G10 handle
✅liner lock mechanismReversible deep carry pocket clip
Cons
⛔Blade may need regular sharpening
6) QSP Vault
The QSP Vault is known for its strong construction and smart design. It has a blade made of 14C28N steel and a Micarta handle with aluminum bolsters, balancing durability and looks.
What makes it special is the Glide lock—a safe and easy-to-use feature for deploying the blade smoothly with a satisfying click. The handle is ergonomic for a secure grip. Having recently reviewed it, I can say it’s great for everyday tasks due to its precise handling and reliability.
Its solid build and smooth operation make it stand out among affordable knives, perfect for opening boxes or outdoor jobs. It’s loved by both new and experienced knife fans for its practicality and style.
Specs
Blade Material: Sandvik 14C28N
Handle Material: Micarta
Blade Length: 3.25″
Overall Length: 7.50″
Brand: QSP
Pros
✅Robust build with 14C28N steel blade
✅Stylish Micarta handle with aluminum bolsters
✅Innovative Glide lock mechanism for safety and ease
✅Smooth blade deployment with satisfying click
Cons
⛔Handle material may feel slick in wet conditions
⛔Blade steel might require frequent sharpening
Conclusion: Finding Best Pocket Knives Under $100
When choosing the best pocket knife under $100, think about what you need most: blade material, handle comfort, or how it opens. Many options offer good performance without costing too much. Check how sharp the blade is, how comfy the handle feels, and how secure the lock is. Look at well-known brands and understand the types of blades they use.
Think about how easy it is to use and take care of. Whether you’re new to pocket knives or a collector, finding the right one can give you a durable, versatile tool for everyday tasks and outdoor use.