Top 7 EDC Knives 2023

What Makes A Good EDC Knife?

To be considered viable for EDC, a knife must have a fixed or locking blade and be made of quality steel that holds an edge. A sharp, dependable blade will perform well in a wide range of self defense and survival applications without becoming dull or breaking.

A good EDC knife should also fit into your wardrobe year-round; in other words, a knife you carry in the winter may not work as well for summer carry. Look for a model with the proper balance of size, weight, and concealment to ensure it is something you will actually keep on your person every day.

Different Types Of Knives

We will focus on the three most common types of knives: folders with open assist, full tang fixed blades, and automatic knives that launch at the push of a button. Each category has its pros and cons, and your individual goals will determine which mechanism is right for you.

  • Folders - great for concealment and with open assist, are quick to deploy from the pocket
  • Fixed Blades - more stable than folders but also less concealable in standard dress
  • Automatics - excellent balance of speed and concealment, most versatile

Best EDC Knives In 2023

In today's market, there are many sturdy and effective options available across various price points. The Classic Firearms team has selected our picks for the top 7 knives for your everyday carry.

Gerber StrongArm

The Gerber StrongArm is a robust fixed blade knife with a rubberized slip-resistent grip. Built tough, it is ideal for a wide range of applications and even includes a multi-mount sheath with MOLLE compatibility for belt carry or rigging to a backpack.

Gerber 30-001058 StrongArm
Gerber 30-001058 StrongArm
$99 95

Spyderco Delico 4

This compact folder from Spyderco is packed with features, including a tactile Bi-Directional Texturing on the grip and skeletonized stainless steel liners for added strength and stability. The Delico 4 is the perfect choice for an affordable year-round EDC knife.

Spyderco C11PSBBK Delica 4
Spyderco C11PSBBK Delica 4
$106 50

Kershaw Blur

Even after several years on the market, the Kershaw Blur is still one of the best budget-friendly pocket knives available for purchase in 2023. It is quick to deploy thanks to Kershaw's SpeedSafe assisted open technology, and the carry clip is reversible for tip-up or tip-down pocket carry.

Kershaw 1670GBBLKST Blur
Kershaw 1670GBBLKST Blur
$99 49

Ka-Bar EK50 Short Clip Point

Ka-Bar's EK50 Short Clip Point is a slim, streamlined fixed blade made from 1095 steel. This modern take on the classic fighting knife offers a balance of speed and durability that makes the EK50 a solid choice for everyday carry.

Templar OTF Dagger

An OTF, or Out The Front knife, is a type of automatic blade that deploys and retracts from the front of the grip / handle at the push of a button. This entry-level model from Templar is compact yet sturdy, providing speed and concealment as well as stability when in use.

Templar Knife LZBR121 Premium Weighted Large OTF Dagger 3.55" D2 Blade, 5.25" Black Aluminum/Rubber Handle.
Templar Knife LZBR121 Premium Weighted Large OTF Dagger 3.55" D2 Blade, 5.25" Black Aluminum/Rubber Handle.
Be the first to know when this product is back in stock!

Benchmade Bailout

Renowned for producing quality blades, Benchmade is one of the most trusted brands for EDC knives. The Bailout is a recent model which combines a slim, lightweight design with industry-leading strength for a robust pocket folder that will last a lifetime.

Benchmade 537GY-1 Bailout
Benchmade 537GY-1 Bailout
Be the first to know when this product is back in stock!

Kershaw Livewire OTF

Kershaw's first OTF knife, the Livewire, has already made a strong first impression with reviewers in 2023. Its aluminum handle has a grippy texture and an intuitive button that makes the knife easy to deploy. Moreover, the deep carry pocket clip makes it one of the most concealable OTF knives on the market.

Round Out Your EDC Setup

Want to discover what other items we carry with us in 2023? Be sure to check out Clint's EDC breakdown and click here to shop our selection of folding, fixed blades, and OTF knives.