15 Best Self-Defense Knives: Keep Yourself Safe With These Top Picks

FOX 479 G10 Black Emerson Wave Folding Karambit

Editors Rating

This sleek folding Karambit blade is the perfect blend of self-defense knife and practical utility tool. The tiger claw-shaped blade will cut through any box, paper, strap, or cord, and you’ve got a wickedly sharp tip that’s ideal for defending yourself against threats. Though it’s a short blade—just 3 inches long—the curved cutting edge is more than lengthy enough to handle any daily task. Thanks to its Teflon coating, it’ll hold its edge for a long time and require minimal sharpening.

When folded, the knife is just 5 inches long and fits easily into your pocket, and includes a pocket clip that makes it easy to keep handy at all times. The ring at the end allows you to spin it around in your hand for quick, versatile use—perfect for self-defense. Thanks to the patented Emerson Wave feature, you can deploy the knife quickly and fold it easily.

The knife handle is a blend of steel and fiberglass to ensure durability while keeping it light. The knife’s strong pocket clip and rough handle scales ensure that it won’t go anywhere when stored.

Some people have reported receiving inauthentic knives (imitation products). Others have noted that the tip of the blade can be snapped off very easily, so you’ll have to be careful when using it. The ring is built to be smaller than the handle, which might make the handle feel a bit awkward to hold if you have large hands.

Smith & Wesson High Carbon S.S. Fixed Blade Knife

Editors Rating

If you’re looking for durability and reliability, you won’t get much better than a fixed-blade knife. There’s little risk of the blade snapping or the handle cracking when it’s a single piece of well-forged metal. Smith and Wesson delivers a truly exceptional product that, though a bit on the pricey side, will be an excellent tool for everyday use.

The handle fits comfortably into your palm and gives you a solid grip for your fingers, so it’ll never slip or slide around. Thanks to the hand-guard, your hand will be safe no matter what task you’re using this knife for. You’ll like the added heft of the blade—it feels solid, durable, and weighty enough to serve as both tool and weapon.

This knife is large–10.6 inches long with a 5.2 inch blade. While this particular model features a plain edge, you can also purchase a serrated-edge blade. The high carbon stainless steel has excellent edge-retention and is incredibly durable, not to mention easy to deploy in an instant. You’ll love how controlled it feels, perfect for cutting, slicing, and even throwing.

On the downside, some people who have purchased this self-defense knife have reported that it’s difficult to pull the knife out of its sheath. Others have noted that it doesn’t fit the average belt. There have been quality issues expressed about this knife by some customers, such as with its plastic molds being uneven.

CRKT Shrill Fixed Blade Knife with Sheath

Editors Rating

Designed by Matthew Lerch of Sussex, Wisconsin, and this knife is a piece of functional art that will serve you well for years to come. The fixed-blade knife will put up with a lot of use—hunting, fishing, skinning, warehouse work, even throwing—and it’s beautifully lightweight with a dangerously sharp cutting edge. Though it’s only 4.8 inches long, it’s more than long enough for most of your everyday tasks, as well as a practical blade for self-defense.

It’s a great knife for concealed carry, and the clip-point blade looks aggressive enough that just one glance at it will be enough to encourage people to back off. The dual-edged blade has great piercing and puncturing power, and the resin-infused fiberglass handle offers both excellent grip and reliable waterproofing.

The clip that comes with the knife can also be used as a boot clip. Others have said that the knife handle is too smooth and doesn’t provide enough grip. One warning: that the knife is sharp enough to pierce the leather sheath – you’ll have to be careful when stowing it.

MASALONG Tiger Claw Fixed Blade

Editors Rating

Get ready for a knife unlike any other on our list! This particular knife features a hawkbill tip (concave curve) that gives it an extra-long cutting edge and extra-strong tip with excellent slicing power. It’s not the best for piercing thick hides or leather, but it’ll slice just about anything with ease. It’s a surprisingly versatile blade that’s short enough to carry around all day long and deploy instantly.

The fixed-blade knife is made using 5HRC steel, which is one of the toughest steels on the market and known for its durability and edge retention. The Karambit-style ring blade will be highly versatile and easy to wield in close quarters combat. When it’s time to stow the blade, you’ll find the adjustable belt/molle clip delivers a familiar, comfortable storage solution.

Granted, it’s not perfect. Its clip isn’t of the highest quality, and it’s designed only for right-handed carry. A few users also complained that it’s sometimes difficult to get the knife out of the sheath.

Gerber Gear 31-003941 Ultimate Knife

Editors Rating

Looking for a knife guaranteed to hold its edge and stay sharp in any urban or jungle environment? This fixed blade knife features partial serration on the lower edge, which maximizes “sawing” power for the tough-to-cut objects—even rope or cord! The top of the blade, however, features a smooth edge that ends in a drop-point tip that is highly versatile for any task you want to use it for.

It has an ergonomic textured rubber handle that makes it easy to grip the knife, and you’ll never fumble or slip while working with it. It’s also an incredibly practical utility and survival knife, thanks to the built-in fire striker notch and ferrocerrium starter rod that comes with the sheath, the extra-wide, extra-heavy stainless steel pommel that can double as a hammer, and the emergency whistle that accompanies it. The click-retention nylon sheath keeps it securely locked in place until you need to draw it. And, with the accompanying sharpener, you can make quick edge adjustments anywhere you are.

There are a couple of drawbacks: the sheath is a bit too heavy when worn on a belt, and is more suited for a molle pack. Also, some people who have purchased this self-defense knife have reported that it isn’t very sharp right out of the box, but takes a bit of sharpening to get it in tip-top shape.

CRKT SIWI Fixed Blade Knife

Editors Rating

This is one of the strongest knives on the market. It’s made out of carbon steel that holds its edge well and boosts impact resistance.

It’s a full-tang knife, which means it’s made from one solid piece of metal—ergo, highly durable and reliable. It’s got a black power-coating that improves its resistance to corrosion, therefore increasing its durability. The knife blade has non-reflective coating so you can use it during the day without it bouncing back glare.

The handle of the knife has a scalloped grip that’s easy to hold and feels comfortable in your hand. It has subtle jimping (notches) on the spine that prevents your fingers from getting hurt. The multi-position sheath makes it easy to set it anywhere on your belt (right side or left side) within easy reach at a moment’s notice.

On the downside, the blade isn’t very sharp right out of the box. The sheath also includes a Tek-Loc belt clip that is a bit too large and bulky, while also being made of potentially flimsy plastic.

CRKT Acquisition Folding Pocket Knife

Editors Rating

If you’re looking for an ultra-sharp pocket knife, you’ll love this CRKT model! Its high carbon steel blade does an amazing job of holdings its edge, and it’s beautifully sharp right out of the box. Plus, the hollow grind makes it easy to sharpen the thin blade in a matter of minutes.

The knife comes with a skull crusher pommel, which adds heft to the blade for stronger swings and greater balance. The knife handle is made out of strong glass-reinforced nylon to give you better grip for greater control. It has an elongated flipper to provide a finger guard while helping you deploy the knife easily. The knife comes with a locking liner to increase your safety.

The click-lock sheath guarantees that your knife will always stay securely sheathed until you need to deploy it, and you’ll never have to worry about it sliding or falling out no matter what you’re doing.

While the sheath is compatible with most belts, the hook for your pants isn’t of a high quality and may constantly end up needing retightening. Another “con” is the grooves in the handle aren’t deep enough to offer a truly solid grip with wet or slippery hands.

Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops S.S. Folding Knife

Editors Rating

This self-defense knife blade is made out of black-oxide, high-carbon stainless steel. It’s a folding knife that’s been built to last! It’s easy to deploy, so you don’t have to waste time if you’re in a self-defense situation. It has thumb studs and a finger flipper that you can use for quick one-handed deployment.

The built-in liner lock will stop the blade from slipping or folding at the wrong time, and you’ll love the textured surface of the ultra-tough aluminum handle—great for working with this blade even in wet or rainy conditions.

While it feels weighty and strong, it is lightweight enough to carry around all day long no matter how much gear you’re hauling. It comes with a pocket clip that’s made of heavy-duty metal. The knife is made well as it doesn’t have any blade play, locks well, and stays securely in place.

Some people have said that the knife is difficult to close, and others have said that the blade tends to become dull quickly, so you will have to sharpen it regularly. Some customers have said that you have to be sure to put a lot of effort into opening it with a flip, otherwise the knife only comes out halfway.

Kershaw Leek Pocket Knife

Editors Rating

Looking for one of the best pocket knives on the market, hands down? You’re going to love this bad boy! The composite 14C28N steel blade with a D2 steel edge comes with a matching stainless-steel handle to increase its durability and strength, while increased amount of nitrogen in its construction boosts the knife’s resistance to corrosion.

It has a speed-safe assisted opening for increased convenience. Thanks to a torsion bar that moves the blade out of the handle, this assisted opening feature allows you to engage in one-handed, fast deployment whenever necessary.

It comes with a liner lock, reversible pocket clip, and a tip lock. The pre-drilled lanyard hole is designed for increased convenience when carrying and storing the knife. It has a three-inch blade that’s versatile enough for a variety of cutting tasks.

The knife is both fade-resistant and scratch-resistant, and due to its slim and sleek profile, it’s is easy to conceal. As a bonus, it also has a non-reflective surface to make it even more discreet.

Some people who have purchased this knife have reported that it sometimes feels a bit stiff when opened. This knife comes with a blade that’s meant to look worn. This is so that it blends in with your appearance and gear, but it’s not to everyone’s tastes. Some people have said that the blade has some play so it doesn’t feel properly secure.

KA-BAR TDI Law Enforcement Knife Fixed Blade

Editors Rating

This law enforcement knife, which was designed by John Benner, the founder and owner of Tactical Defense Institute, is the perfect self-defense tool to conceal carry and stay under the radar. But at a moment’s notice, you’ve got a truly impressive weapon ideal to protect yourself in any dangerous situation.

This knife can be worn on your belt, and doing so conceals both the knife and sheath. The non-reflective black coating makes it even more covert and invisible, and you’ll never have to worry about it being spotted on your belt. Thanks to the reversible clip, you can place the sheath on either your right or left side, in either a horizontal or vertical position—whatever feels best for you.

The blade is made of 57-59 HRC steel, a hard, strong steel perfect for combat and work applications. Though the blade itself is on the shorter side, the handle fits snugly into your hand and features a beautifully textured grip that will never slip or slide.

Some people who have purchased this self-defense knife have said that the clip is a bit flimsy. Also, if you have large hands, you might find that this knife has a grip that’s too narrow.

Zero Tolerance 0350TS Folding Pocket Knife

Editors Rating

This is the blade that just won’t quit! The S350V steel blade has been coated with DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) tungsten that makes it more damage-resistance and increases durability. The tiger-striped pattern on the blade gives it a “cool” look and makes it appear more aggressive—perfect for getting a hostile to back away before it comes to a fight.

The built-in torsion bar and SpeedSafe assisted opening feature makes it easy to slide the blade out one-handed without risking cutting or nicking yourself. The knife contains two steel plates (liners) on the inside of each handle scale. This ensures that the blade remains secure when open and prevents it from closing unexpectedly. The handle is made of G-10, a laminate glass fiber that’s strong, lightweight, and resistant to temperature changes.

The knife comes with a quad-mount pocket clip that can be used in a variety of ways, such as tip up or tip down. It’s one of the most versatile and user-friendly knives on our list.

Take note: some people have said the knife feels too heavy during use. Others have noted that the blade doesn’t stay sharp for long, although it is said to be easy to sharpen.

CRKT Provoke First Responder Folding Pocket Knife

Editors Rating

Cops, firefighters, and paramedics will love this knife! The innovative design includes a special kinematic feature that deploys the blade at the push of your thumb, making it safe and beautifully quick to get your blade out and ready for use.

The D2 steel blade has excellent edge retention and durability, and though the blade is fairly small, it will last a long, LONG time thanks to the black Ti Nitride coating that maximizes its corrosion-resistance. The manufacturer is so confident in the knife’s quality, in fact, that they offer a lifetime warranty on it.

The knife also features a built-in glass-breaker—perfect for those situations where you’re first on the scene of a vehicle collision or accident and you need to rescue people. The extra-long handle allows for a four-fingered grip, and the blade will never slip in your hands.

It’s not without its flaws, of course. It comes with a pocket clip but it’s been said to be difficult to use. Some people who have purchased this knife have said that the locking tab sometimes catches. The spring is a bit too stiff, which makes it difficult to open the knife when you first use it.

Spyderco Para 3 Signature Folding Utility Pocket Knife

Editors Rating

This self-defense knife takes the best features of a folding knife and puts it in a carry-friendly and compact package. It’s made from CPM S30V particle metallurgy stainless steel that provides greater balance, low friction when cutting, and edge retention.

The knife has an open-backed construction that maximizes durability while still making it superbly lightweight. It includes stainless steel blade liners that keep the handle thin while supporting the compression lock. The high-strength mechanisms helps you to lock the blade during use and keep it securely folded up.

The knife has a round hole in its design that allows for quick, one-handed operation, plus it’s ambidextrous. It comes in a variety of handle colors, blade steels, knife serrations, and edge configurations.

If you have very large hands, however, you might find that this knife is a bit too small. Some people who have purchased this knife have said that they didn’t like the lanyard tube being located on top of the clip-mounting position as this causes the knife to ride too high in one’s pocket.

Gerber Gear 30-001005N Ghoststrike Fixed Blade Knife

Editors Rating

This knife has a fine-edge blade that’s made of 420HC steel, and is finished with a black ceramic coating that reduces reflection while increasing corrosion-resistance. This knife has a very compact design that feels light in your hand, weighing in at just 3.6 ounces. At 6.9 inches in length with a 3.3-inch blade, it’s a great tool to carry on any job site, hunting or boating trip, or even around town.

It has a skeletal blade that’s built to be compact so that you don’t have to draw any attention to it being on your person, and rubber overmold makes it easy to hold and grip. It has a sheath system that can be used for open carry or low-profile carry. This is thanks to how it can be worn vertically or horizontally on your belt. The handle contains a rubber diamond grip to make it easy to hold and use.

People who have purchased this knife have said that when carried, this knife doesn’t dig into your ribs when you bend down and you won’t feel it when sitting down.

Some people have said that the handle wears away quite quickly. The knife doesn’t come very sharp from the factory, though it’s easy to sharpen and holds a fine edge for a long time.

Cold Steel Drop Forged Series Fixed Blade Knife

Editors Rating

This blade just looks and feels badass in every way! It resembles a throwing knife, with a long, thin handle and drop point tip that has amazing piercing power. Thanks to the Karambit-style ring on the pommel, you’ve got a versatile weapon that can be used in any close quarters combat situation.

The knife itself is made with a single length of highly durable high-carbon steel, which is finished with a scratch-resistant power-coating that both extends its lifespan and helps to protect its edge.

The knife comes with a sheath and a utility clip so that you can wear it comfortably on your waist. The clip is versatile so you can choose how you want to carry the knife.

However, the ring on this knife makes it difficult to conceal. The ring also makes it difficult (if not impossible) to successfully throw this knife. It’s heavier than some others on the list—at 11 ounces, it might feel a bit chunky.