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How to Choose a Knife for Everyday Carry

Your Everyday Sidekick – What Exactly is an EDC Knife?

When we talk about an EDC knife, we’re referring to a cutting tool that’s chosen to be carried on your person consistently for tackling the multitude of cutting tasks that pop up in your daily life.

Think about it: how many times have you needed to open a stubborn package, slice an apple during lunch, cut a loose thread, or found yourself in a situation where a sharp edge would have been incredibly handy? An EDC knife isn’t just about being a weapon, although self-defense can certainly be a consideration, but the focus is typically more slanted toward utility, practicality, and general preparedness. 

The ideal EDC knife is one that balances capability with convenience. It should be robust enough to handle your common tasks, comfortable enough to carry without a second thought, and suited to your personal style and environment. 

Step 1: Defining Your Needs – What Will Your Daily Knife Tackle?

Before you even start looking at specific knives, blade steels, or handle materials, the most crucial first step is to honestly assess what you actually need your everyday carry knife to do. A knife that’s perfect for a construction worker will likely be different from one suited to an office environment, which will again differ from what a plumber might prioritize.

Take a few moments to think about your typical week:

  • Your Work Environment: Do you work in an office where a discreet, smaller knife for opening letters or packages is appropriate? Or are you in a trade, on a farm, or in a warehouse where your knife might need to cut tougher materials like thick cordage or heavy-duty plastic?
  • Your Hobbies and Activities: Are you an avid camper or hiker needing a knife for light woodcraft and food preparation? Do you fish or hunt? Do you engage in crafts or DIY projects that often require a blade?
  • Common Daily Tasks: Think about the “little things.” Opening mail, breaking down cardboard boxes for recycling, cutting zip ties, removing tags from new clothing, or even slicing fruit. Which of these do you encounter regularly?
  • Emergency Preparedness: While not its primary daily function for most, many people consider an EDC knife as part of their emergency kit – for scenarios like cutting a seatbelt or other emergency situations.

Make a mental or physical list of these tasks. Be realistic: your daily needs should be the primary driver. This self-assessment will guide you in determining the appropriate size, blade shape, durability, and features you’ll need in the steps that follow. The more clearly you define your needs now, the happier you’ll be with your choice in the long run.

Step 2: Folder or Fixed Blade? 

Once you have a good idea of what you’ll be using your knife for, the next big decision is the fundamental style: will a folding knife or a compact fixed blade better suit your everyday carry needs? Both have their advantages and disadvantages.

Folding Knives (Folders): This is the most common choice for EDC, and for good reason.

  • Pros:
    • Portability and Discretion: Clearly, folding knives are smaller than fixed blades with the same blade length.
    • Variety: The market is flooded with folding knives, offering a vast array of opening mechanisms (thumb studs, flippers, assisted opening, etc), locking systems (liner lock, frame lock, lockback, axis-style locks, etc.), and designs.
  • Cons:
    • Potential Weak Points: The pivot and locking mechanism, while often very strong in quality knives, are inherently more complex and less solid than a single piece of steel and can be potential points of failure under extreme stress. However, don’t subject them to that stress and all should be well.
    • Cleaning: These can be more challenging to clean thoroughly as debris can get trapped in the handle and pivot area.

Compact Fixed Blades: While less common for urban EDC, fixed blade knives are a viable option for some.

  • Pros:
    • Strength and Simplicity: A good fixed blade is typically full tang (where the steel of the blade extends through the entire handle). This makes them inherently very strong and durable, with no moving parts to fail or wear out.
    • Ease of Cleaning: Generally much easier to clean and maintain as there are no enclosed areas for debris to accumulate.
    • Rapid Deployment (from sheath): Once drawn from its sheath, a fixed blade is instantly ready for use.
  • Cons:
    • Carry and Concealment: Even compact fixed blades require a sheath and are generally bulkier and less discreet to carry than a folder. They often require belt carry or a different carry system.
    • Perception: Can be perceived as more intimidating by the general public than a folding knife. Since they can be more difficult to conceal, this is a relevant point to consider.

Making Your Choice: Consider your defined needs from Step 1.

  • If maximum portability and discretion are your priorities, and your tasks don’t involve foreseeable instances where your knife may be abused, a folding knife is likely the better choice.
  • If strength, simplicity, and ease of cleaning are paramount, a compact fixed blade could be a good fit.

Step 3: All About the Blade – A Look at Steels, Shapes, and Edges

The characteristics of your blade will largely define how your EDC performs. Understanding a few basics about blade steels, shapes, and edge types will help you choose a knife that truly meets your expectations.

Blade Steels: Blade steel is a complex topic, but for EDC purposes, you’ll want a steel that balances a few key properties in accordance with your particular daily needs and preferences:

  • Edge Retention: How long the blade will stay sharp with use.
  • Toughness: The blade’s ability to resist chipping or breaking under stress.
  • Corrosion Resistance: How well it withstands rust and staining.
  • Ease of Sharpening: How easy it is to bring a dull edge back to sharpness.

No single steel is perfect; there are always trade-offs. Here are some common categories you’ll encounter:

  • Easily Available Stainless Steels (e.g., 8Cr13MoV, 440A): These are common in affordable knives. They offer good corrosion resistance and are relatively easy to sharpen, are more affordable, but may not hold an edge as long as more premium options.
  • Mid-Range Stainless Steels (e.g., Sandvik 14C28N, AUS-8, VG-10): These often provide a great balance of edge retention, toughness, corrosion resistance, and sharpenability, making them excellent all-around choices for EDC.
  • Premium Stainless Steels (e.g., S30V, S35VN, M390, CPM 20CV): Found in higher-end knives, these steels offer superior edge retention and often excellent corrosion resistance. They can be tougher to sharpen if you let them get very dull.
  • Tool Steels (e.g., D2): D2 is a popular “semi-stainless” tool steel known for its fantastic edge retention and good toughness. It requires a bit more care to prevent corrosion compared to true stainless steels but is a workhorse.
  • Carbon Steels: While less common in modern EDC folders due to their susceptibility to rust, carbon steels are very tough and can be sharpened to an incredibly fine edge relatively easily. They require diligent maintenance to prevent rusting (keeping them clean and oiled).

Blade Shapes (Profiles): Form Follows Function The shape of the blade influences how it cuts and what tasks it excels at:

  • Drop Point: One of the most versatile and popular shapes. The spine “drops” down towards the tip, creating a strong point that’s good for general utility and control. It has a good amount of “belly” (curved part of the edge) for slicing.
  • Clip Point: The spine appears “clipped” off towards the tip, resulting in a finer, sharper point that’s excellent for piercing and detail work. It still maintains a good belly for slicing.
  • Tanto: Features a strong, angular tip formed by two straight edges meeting. This design excels at piercing tough materials due to the reinforced point.
  • Sheepsfoot/Wharncliffe: These blades have a straight cutting edge and a spine that curves down to meet it (Sheepsfoot) or runs straight to the tip (Wharncliffe). The straight edge provides powerful, controlled cuts, excellent for slicing and utility work. A Sheepsfoot is often considered safer as it lacks a sharp, aggressive point.
  • Spear Point: Symmetrical in shape with the point aligned with the centerline of the blade. Good for piercing, though not always the best slicer depending on the belly.

Blade Edges: Grinds and Serrations

  • Grinds: This refers to how the blade is ground to create the cutting edge. Common grinds include:
    • Flat Grind: The blade tapers consistently from the spine to the edge bevel. Good all-around slicer and strong.
    • Hollow Grind: The blade is concavely ground, resulting in a very thin, sharp edge. Excellent for slicing but can be slightly less robust than a flat grind.
  • Serrations:
    • Plain Edge: A continuous sharp edge. Best for clean, push cuts and easy to sharpen.
    • Partially Serrated: Offers a section of serrations (usually near the handle) for cutting fibrous materials like rope or straps, and a plain edge section for finer work. A versatile compromise.
    • Fully Serrated: The entire edge is serrated. Excels at tearing through tough, fibrous materials and can maintain cutting ability even when somewhat dull. More difficult to sharpen than a plain edge.

Consider the materials you cut most often when choosing between plain, partially serrated, or fully serrated edges.

Step 4: Getting a Good Grip – Understanding Handle Materials and Ergonomics

The handle is your interface with the knife. A good handle should be comfortable, provide a secure grip, and be durable enough for your intended use.

Ergonomics: How it Feels in Your Hand “Ergonomics” simply means how well the knife handle fits your hand and allows for comfortable and controlled use.

  • Shape and Contouring: Look for a handle that fills your hand naturally. Some handles are straight, while others have contours, palm swells, or finger grooves designed to improve grip. What’s comfortable is subjective, so if possible, try holding a few different styles.
  • Size: The handle should be large enough for you to get a full, secure grip. Too small, and it might feel insecure; too large, and it could be cumbersome.
  • Texture and Traction: A smooth handle might look sleek but can be slippery, especially if your hands are wet or sweaty. Many handle materials can be textured (e.g., checkering, stippling, or the natural texture of the material itself) to provide better traction.
  • Jimping: These are small notches cut into the spine of the blade or specific areas of the handle to provide extra grip for your thumb or fingers during use.

Common Handle Materials:

  • G10: A high-pressure fiberglass laminate that is extremely durable, lightweight, and resistant to moisture and temperature changes. It can be textured in various ways for excellent grip.
  • Micarta: Created by impregnating layers of material (like linen, canvas, or paper) with resin. It’s durable, offers good grip (especially when wet for some varieties), and can develop an attractive patina over time.
  • Carbon Fiber: A premium material known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. It’s very lightweight, incredibly strong, and often has a distinctive, high-tech look.
  • FRN/GRN (Fiberglass/Glass Reinforced Nylon) / Zytel / Grivory: These are synthetic polymers that are lightweight, very durable, impact-resistant, and cost-effective. They can be molded into ergonomic shapes and textured for good grip.
  • Stainless Steel: Strong and provides a solid feel. Often used for framelock knives. Can add significant weight to the knife and might be slippery if not textured or ergonomically designed.
  • Titanium: Offers the strength of steel but is much lighter. It’s highly corrosion-resistant and can be anodized for color. Often found on higher-end knives.
  • Aluminum: Lighter than steel, can be anodized for various colors, and provides a solid feel. Like other metals, it can be slippery if not well-designed or textured.
  • Wood: Offers a classic, warm look and feel. Many types of wood are used, often stabilized for better durability and moisture resistance. May require more care than synthetic materials.
  • Bone/Stag: Traditional materials that offer a unique aesthetic. Like wood, they can be less resistant to impact and moisture than modern synthetics.

Consider the conditions you’ll be using your knife in. If wet conditions are common, materials like G10, Micarta, or textured FRN might be preferable.

Step 5: The Portability Factor – Finding the Right Size and Weight

An EDC knife is only useful if you actually carry it. Its size and weight are critical factors that will determine how comfortable it is to have with you day in and day out.

  • Blade Length:
    • This is often the first dimension people consider. Most EDC knives fall in the 2.5 to 4-inch (approx. 6.4 to 10.2 cm) range.
    • Shorter blades (under 3 inches) are generally more discreet, lighter, and legally permitted in more areas (however, always research your local laws). They excel at small, everyday tasks.
    • Longer blades (3 to 4 inches) offer more cutting edge for larger tasks but can be bulkier and may face more legal restrictions (again, know your laws).
    • Match the blade length to your most common cutting needs and local laws (yes, we said it three times).
  • Overall Length (Open and Closed):
    • The closed length is crucial for pocketability. A knife that’s too long when closed can be uncomfortable or poke out of a too-small pocket.
    • The open length gives you an idea of how it will feel relative to your hand size.
  • Weight:
    • This is highly subjective. Some people prefer an almost unnoticeable lightweight knife (around 1-3 ounces / 28-85 grams), while others prefer the more substantial feel of a heavier knife (4-6+ ounces / 113-170+ grams).
    • Handle materials play a big role: carbon fiber and FRN are light; steel is heavy. Blade stock thickness also contributes.
    • Think about what you typically wear. A heavy knife might be fine in jeans but could be uncomfortable in lighter dress pants or athletic shorts.
  • Thickness/Profile:
    • A slim knife will sit more flatly in your pocket and be less obtrusive. A thicker knife might offer a more hand-filling grip but will take up more pocket real estate.
  • Carry Method:
    • Most EDC folding knives come with a pocket clip. Consider:
      • Tip-Up or Tip-Down Carry: This refers to the orientation of the blade’s tip when clipped in your pocket. (It’s largely personal preference.)
      • Right or Left-Hand Carry: Some knives carry clips that are reversible or designed for ambidextrous carry.
      • Deep Carry Clip: Allows the knife to sit lower in your pocket for more discreet carry.
    • Lanyard Hole: Many knives include a hole for attaching a lanyard, which can aid in drawing the knife from the pocket or add a bit of customization.
    • For compact fixed blades, the sheath type and how it attaches (belt loop, clip, neck carry) is the primary portability factor.

The goal is to find a knife that offers the capability you need without being so cumbersome you’re tempted to leave it at home.

Step 6: A Note on Knife Laws

Choosing a great EDC knife is one thing; carrying it legally and responsibly is another, equally important aspect. Knife laws can be a complex web, varying significantly from country to country, state to state, and even city to city. Before you clip that new knife to your pocket, it’s your responsibility to understand the specific regulations in your area and any place you plan to travel.

Step 7: What to Consider for Your Budget

With your needs and desired features in mind, let’s talk budget. EDC knives come in a wide price range, from affordable options to premium custom pieces. The key is finding a good balance between quality and what you’re comfortable spending. It’s good to remember that even many budget-friendly knives today are well-made and capable of handling everyday tasks effectively.

Understanding Price Tiers (General Guide):

  • Budget-Friendly (Under $50): You can find many high-quality, functional knives in this range. They typically use reliable, simpler steels (like 8Cr13MoV or similar) and durable handle materials such as FRN or G10. These are excellent for everyday tasks, trying out different styles, or if you’re concerned about potentially losing or damaging your knife. While generally well-made for the price, the consistency in fit and finish might vary more than in higher-priced options.
  • Mid-Range ($50 – $150): This is often considered the “sweet spot” for many EDC users. You’ll typically find a significant step up in blade steels (e.g., D2, 14C28N, and even some S30V/S35VN), more robust and ergonomic handle materials, and generally better overall fit, finish, and build quality. Knives in this range often offer excellent long-term value.
  • Premium/High-End ($150+): In this tier, you’ll see superior blade steels (e.g., M390, CPM 20CV, Magnacut), premium handle materials like titanium or carbon fiber, precision manufacturing, and often exceptionally smooth actions and refined designs. You’re paying for top-tier performance, materials, brand reputation, and frequently more comprehensive warranties.

Focus on the features most critical for your needs and aim to get the best quality materials and construction you can comfortably afford. A dependable EDC knife is a tool you’ll rely on regularly.

Selecting the Perfect Everyday Carry Knife for Your Needs

Choosing an everyday carry knife is a journey that blends practical assessment with personal preference. As we’ve walked through these steps the goal has been to equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.

There’s no single “perfect” EDC knife that suits everyone. The ideal knife for you is the one that seamlessly integrates into your life and is a pleasure to carry and use. It’s the one you’ll reach for without a second thought, knowing it’s ready for the job.

By carefully considering what you truly need and what features will best serve those needs, you can select an EDC knife that will not just be a tool, but a reliable and valued companion for years to come. Take your time, do your research, and enjoy the process of finding that perfect everyday blade.

Ready to find a knife that’s built to be your trusted partner for whatever the day holds? Explore the ABKT collection of Elite knives. We craft durable, reliable tools designed for real-world use, so you can find the knife you’ll use with confidence.

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