Top 5 Pocket Knives for the Everyday Dad!
- Aug 31, 2021
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 5, 2021
Most Dads agree that a pocket knife for everyday use is essential to have when you walk out the door. No matter if you're going camping, for a hike or to the office, a solid knife is one of the most useful tools a to have on your person. I've owned many knives from tactical, hunting and even the bulky multi-tool. Each knife is designed for specific uses and environments. For example, the knife I carried in uniform while I was deployed to Afghanistan would be bulky and uncomfortable when I wear my suit or slacks to the office. The same goes for the big "Rambo" knife we have all owned at one time. It probably wouldn't be welcomed walking into a corporate setting. The knife you carry should be able to meet your needs while fitting into your environment. Below are the our top 5 pocket knives for every day carry.
The first knife on our list is the CJRB Cutlery Folding Knife (Crag). The Crag is a substantial every day carry knife measuring in at over 8.15". It is a styled knife that can tackle most tasks with ease. Featuring a 3.43” long blade that is over an inch wide, the Crag can power through bigger cuts with ease while still being acute enough for delicate work. The 4.72” handle provides a substantial grip while still being light and maneuverable in hand. The handle is carbon fiber and has a place for a lanyard attachment. The knife is the heaviest on our list weighing in at over 7 ounces. The weight gives the Crag a secure place in an outdoor work environment it but also slows down the blades deployment until you break it in. A knife with a break in period can be an indicator of a great blade. The quality and presentation of the knife are outstanding. It ranks lower due the sheer size for an every day carry.
Pros: Excellent quality Cons: Size
The SOG TWI17 is a 2.65" stainless steel blade that has a "Flick the Kick" feature for blade deployment with a system of opposing high-tension coils that propels the blade open almost instantly. It's a smaller knife allowing for concealment in all types of garment pockets. What stands out about this knife is its natural wood handle. It's almost nostalgic to have and yet very modern. Because of its size it is a difficult knife to work with if you have large hands or are wearing gloves. The "Kick Flick" ability is nice, but it may promote a dangerous situation to an inexperienced knife handler. SOG has great customer service and the company stands by their quality.
Pros: Small and concealable Cons: Can be too small depending on your hands.
The Kershaw Leek is a sleek stainless steel high performing drop-point knife. It is built with increased hardness, corrosion resistance and edge retention technology. This knife is slim and is able to fit in any pants or shorts pockets. It is durable yet light weight to help keep the knife in place with daily movement. It ranks number 3 on our list due to its usefulness in multiple work environments. It can be worn inside or outside the office and the all metal design looks sharp anywhere. The spring assist is on point with multiple people confusing this knife as an automatic. The Leek has excellent slicing abilities however the thin blade does affect the durability. If you're using your knife as a pry bar, the Leek will likely not preform that task well.
Pros: Secure when in locked position Cons: Thin blade
The CRT CEO is designed with the office setting in mind. Known as a "Gentlemen's Knife", the CRT CEO takes into account the slacks or suit worn and solves the challenge of keeping a low profile blade in your office or formal wear with out sacrificing utility.
The CRT CEO has a clean and simple feel and was created with dress shirt pockets in mind. It has lubed ball bearings in the pivot to reduce friction and a slim thumb stud that sets the IKBS in motion for quick deployment. The CRT CEO has a glass-reinforced nylon handle with a satin-finished stainless steel blade. A locking liner keeps it securely in place. There is a relatively tough break-in period making it difficult to open. The cost point for he CRT CEO sits at $39.49 on Amazon making it an affordable option for fathers day, birthdays or just because gifts.
Pros: Sleek and low profile; Cons: Break-in period.
Our number one pick is the Benchmade-Griptilian 551. The Benchmade knives have proven themselves time and time again. They are durable, sleek and reliable. The Griptilian uses a CPM-S30V stainless steel blade in a glass-filled nylon handle. Its tough, yet doesn't scream "TACTICAL" when used. It has an AXIS lock and is a manual open knife that can be opened with one hand. This knife is versatile with a low profile for everyday carry and yet is tough enough to work with outdoor or tactical applications due to the molded handle and positive ergonomic grip. The downside to the knife is the price. Benchmade's have never been cheap, however the company has a positive reputation working with customers. Benchmade knives are also known to keep their edge. This knife covers all the Dads no matter what the environment.
Pros: Durability and sharpness Cons: Price
What are your favorite everyday carry knives?
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