EDC Knife Guide

Your Complete Everyday Carry Knife Reference

What is an EDC Knife?

An EDC (Everyday Carry) knife is a folding pocket knife designed to be carried daily for general utility tasks. Unlike fixed-blade hunting or survival knives, EDC knives are compact, legal to carry in most jurisdictions, and useful for everyday tasks like opening packages, cutting cordage, food prep, and countless other situations.

Why Carry an EDC Knife?

  • Utility - Opening boxes, packages, letters, and food packaging
  • Cutting tasks - Rope, cord, tape, zip ties, loose threads
  • Food prep - Cutting fruit, cheese, or other snacks
  • Emergencies - Cutting seatbelts, first aid situations
  • Outdoor activities - Camping, hiking, fishing tasks
  • Hobbies - Crafts, DIY projects, gardening

The ideal EDC knife balances blade size (typically 2.5-3.5 inches), weight, ergonomics, and quality. A good EDC knife should be light enough to carry unnoticed, sharp enough to handle cutting tasks easily, and durable enough to last for years with proper care.

Blade Types Explained

The blade shape affects how well a knife performs specific tasks. Here are the most common blade types you'll encounter in EDC knives:

Drop Point

The most popular EDC blade shape. The spine curves downward to meet the edge, creating a strong, controllable tip. Excellent all-around performer for slicing, piercing, and detail work.

Best for: General use, everyday tasks, outdoor activities

Examples: Benchmade Griptilian, Spyderco Delica

Clip Point

Features a concave cutout at the spine near the tip, creating a sharper, more defined point. Great for precision work but the thin tip can be more fragile.

Best for: Detail work, piercing, precision tasks

Examples: Buck 110, Case knives

Tanto

Angular blade with a flat edge that meets a secondary edge at a sharp angle. Very strong tip due to the thick spine running close to the point. Originally from Japanese sword design.

Best for: Piercing tough materials, tactical use

Examples: Cold Steel Recon 1, Benchmade Contego

Sheepsfoot

Straight edge with a spine that curves down to meet it. No sharp point, making it safer for tasks where you don't want to accidentally puncture something.

Best for: Slicing, rescue/EMT use, safety-conscious environments

Examples: Spyderco Roadie, Benchmade Proper

Wharncliffe

Similar to sheepsfoot but with a straight spine that angles down more gradually to the point. Provides good control for detailed cutting and scraping tasks.

Best for: Detailed cuts, whittling, scraping

Examples: Spyderco Delica Wharncliffe, CRKT Pilar

Spear Point

Symmetrical blade with both edges meeting at the center tip. Often found on daggers but also used in some folding knives. Strong, centered point.

Best for: Piercing, symmetrical cuts

Examples: Kershaw Leek (modified spear point)

Edge Types

Plain Edge: Smooth cutting edge. Best for clean cuts, push cuts, and general utility. Easier to sharpen.

Serrated Edge: Saw-tooth pattern. Excels at cutting fibrous materials like rope, webbing, and cardboard. Harder to sharpen.

Partially Serrated (Combo): Plain edge near the tip, serrations near the handle. Versatile but may not excel at either task.

Recommendation: For most EDC users, a plain edge is the best choice for versatility and easy maintenance.

Knife Steel Guide

The steel used in your knife blade determines its edge retention, corrosion resistance, toughness, and ease of sharpening. Here's a breakdown of common knife steels from budget to premium:

Steel Tier Edge Retention Corrosion Resistance Toughness Ease of Sharpening Notes
8Cr13MoV Budget Fair Good Good Easy Chinese steel, similar to AUS-8. Found in budget knives.
AUS-8 Budget Fair Good Good Easy Japanese steel. Easy to sharpen, decent all-around performance.
14C28N Mid Good Very Good Good Easy Swedish Sandvik steel. Excellent for the price, very stain resistant.
D2 Mid Very Good Fair Good Moderate Tool steel with great edge retention. Semi-stainless, needs care.
VG-10 Mid Good Very Good Good Moderate Japanese steel. Spyderco's longtime favorite. Good balance.
S30V Premium Very Good Very Good Good Moderate American Crucible steel. Industry standard for premium EDC.
S35VN Premium Very Good Very Good Very Good Moderate Improved S30V with better toughness and easier sharpening.
20CV / M390 Premium Excellent Excellent Good Difficult Top-tier super steels. Outstanding edge retention and corrosion resistance.
Magnacut Super Excellent Excellent Excellent Moderate New Crucible steel. Best balance of all properties currently available.

Steel Selection Tips

  • Budget users: 8Cr13MoV or AUS-8 knives are affordable and easy to maintain
  • Best value: D2 or 14C28N steel offers excellent performance for the price
  • All-around premium: S30V/S35VN is the sweet spot for most enthusiasts
  • Maximum edge retention: 20CV/M390 if you rarely sharpen and want to cut forever
  • Marine/humid environments: Prioritize corrosion resistance (14C28N, S35VN, LC200N)

Lock Mechanisms

The lock mechanism keeps your blade securely open during use. Here are the most common types:

Liner Lock

A bent portion of the metal liner springs inward to block the blade tang when open. Push the liner aside to close. Simple, reliable, and the most common lock type.

Pros: Simple, lightweight, easy to operate one-handed

Cons: Possible to accidentally disengage, wears over time

Found on: CIVIVI Elementum, most budget EDC knives

Frame Lock

Similar to liner lock, but uses a portion of the handle frame itself rather than a separate liner. Generally stronger than liner locks.

Pros: Strong, durable, clean look

Cons: Requires thicker handles, can be harder on fingers

Found on: QSP Penguin, Kershaw Leek, many titanium knives

AXIS Lock (Benchmade)

A spring-loaded bar spans the knife and locks into notches in the blade tang. Pull back on the bar to disengage. Ambidextrous and very strong.

Pros: Ambidextrous, very strong, smooth operation

Cons: Proprietary (Benchmade), more parts to potentially fail

Found on: Benchmade Griptilian, Bugout, most Benchmades

Compression Lock (Spyderco)

Similar to liner lock but located on the spine side of the handle. The blade tang engages a leaf spring in the handle spine. Very strong.

Pros: Very strong, safe operation, fingers away from blade path

Cons: Proprietary (Spyderco), not on all models

Found on: Spyderco Para 3, PM2

Back Lock

A rocker bar in the spine locks into a notch in the blade tang. Press the rocker to release. Traditional and very secure.

Pros: Very secure, traditional feel, audible "click"

Cons: Requires two hands to close, slower operation

Found on: Buck 110, Spyderco Delica/Endura

Slip Joint

No true lock - spring tension holds the blade open. Traditional pocket knife style. Not recommended for heavy use.

Pros: Simple, legal everywhere, traditional

Cons: Not a true lock, can close on fingers under pressure

Found on: Swiss Army knives, traditional pocket knives

How to Choose Your EDC Knife

Selecting the right EDC knife depends on your specific needs, local laws, and personal preferences. Consider these factors:

Blade Length

  • Under 2.5": Ultra-compact, highly legal, limited cutting ability
  • 2.5" - 3": Sweet spot for most EDC tasks
  • 3" - 3.5": More capable, may hit legal limits
  • Over 3.5": Check local laws, better for outdoor use

Weight

  • Under 2 oz: Ultra-light, barely noticeable
  • 2-3 oz: Light and comfortable for daily carry
  • 3-4 oz: Noticeable but manageable
  • Over 4 oz: Heavy, may need dedicated carry method

Handle Material

  • G-10: Fiberglass composite, grippy, durable, lightweight
  • FRN/GRN: Nylon-based plastic, very light, budget-friendly
  • Micarta: Linen/canvas resin composite, classic look, comfortable
  • Titanium: Premium, lightweight, durable, expensive
  • Aluminum: Light, smooth, can be slippery when wet
  • Steel: Heavy, durable, often found on slim designs

Opening Method

  • Thumb stud: Universal, good control
  • Thumb hole: Spyderco signature, ambidextrous
  • Flipper: Fast deployment, satisfying action
  • Nail nick: Traditional, requires two hands
  • Assisted: Spring-assisted after initial pressure

Quick Recommendations by Use Case

Office/Light Use: Smaller blade (under 3"), lightweight, non-threatening appearance. Consider the Spyderco Delica 4 or Kershaw Leek.

General EDC: 3" blade, good steel, reliable lock. The CIVIVI Elementum or QSP Penguin are excellent choices.

Outdoor/Heavy Use: Robust lock, thicker blade, premium steel. Look at the Benchmade Griptilian.

Knife Maintenance

Proper maintenance keeps your EDC knife performing at its best and extends its lifespan significantly.

Cleaning

Clean your knife regularly, especially after cutting dirty or corrosive materials:

  1. Wipe the blade with a soft cloth after each use
  2. Use warm water and mild soap for deeper cleaning
  3. Dry thoroughly immediately after washing
  4. Use a toothbrush or cotton swabs to clean around the pivot
  5. For stubborn grime, isopropyl alcohol works well

A quality FrogLube Knife Cleaning Kit makes this process easier and protects against corrosion.

Lubrication

Keep the pivot and lock mechanisms lubricated for smooth operation:

  1. Apply a small drop of knife oil to the pivot area
  2. Open and close the blade several times to distribute
  3. Wipe away any excess oil
  4. Reapply every few weeks or when action feels sluggish

We recommend Blade Premium Knife Oil for EDC knives - it's designed specifically for knife pivots and won't gum up over time.

Sharpening

A dull knife is a dangerous knife. Keep your edge sharp:

  • Stropping: Regular stropping on leather maintains the edge between sharpenings
  • Honing: Use a ceramic rod for quick touch-ups
  • Sharpening: Use whetstones (1000/6000 grit) or a guided system for full sharpening
  • Angle: Most EDC knives use 15-20 degrees per side

Storage

Proper storage prevents damage and corrosion:

  • Store in a dry environment
  • Don't store in leather sheaths long-term (leather retains moisture)
  • Keep away from other metal objects that could scratch the blade
  • Consider a knife roll or case for collections
  • Apply a light coat of oil before long-term storage

Recommended Maintenance Products

Top EDC Knife Recommendations

Based on value, quality, and real-world performance, here are our top picks across different price points:

Budget Tier (Under $50)

CIVIVI Elementum

~$50

  • Blade: 3.5" D2 Steel
  • Weight: 3.5 oz
  • Lock: Liner Lock
  • Handle: G-10, Micarta, or Wood options

The Elementum set a new standard for budget EDC knives. Smooth action, solid construction, and D2 steel at this price point is remarkable. Available in numerous handle materials and colors.

Check Price on Amazon

QSP Penguin

~$30

  • Blade: 3.06" D2 Steel
  • Weight: 3.7 oz (brass version)
  • Lock: Frame Lock
  • Handle: Brass, Micarta, G-10, or Titanium

Punches way above its weight class. The fit and finish rivals knives twice the price. The brass version develops a beautiful patina over time. Arguably the best value in EDC knives today.

Check Price on Amazon

CRKT M16-01Z

~$30

  • Blade: 3" Stainless Steel
  • Weight: 2.9 oz
  • Lock: Liner Lock with AutoLAWKS
  • Handle: Glass-Reinforced Nylon

Designed by legendary knifemaker Kit Carson. The M16 series has been a budget EDC staple for decades. Features CRKT's AutoLAWKS secondary lock for added security.

Check Price on Amazon

Mid-Range Tier ($50-$100)

Kershaw Leek 1660

~$70

  • Blade: 3" 14C28N Steel
  • Weight: 3 oz
  • Lock: Frame Lock
  • Handle: Stainless Steel

A Ken Onion design that's been popular for over 20 years. Slim profile, assisted opening, and excellent fit and finish. Made in the USA. The quintessential gentleman's EDC.

Check Price on Amazon

Spyderco Delica 4

~$90

  • Blade: 2.9" VG-10 Steel
  • Weight: 2.5 oz
  • Lock: Back Lock
  • Handle: FRN (Bi-Directional Texture)

A Spyderco classic that's been refined over decades. The trademark Spyderco hole allows easy one-hand opening. Lightweight, ergonomic, and incredibly slicey. Available in many colors and blade shapes.

Check Price on Amazon

Ontario RAT Model 1

~$35

  • Blade: 3.5" AUS-8 Steel
  • Weight: 5 oz
  • Lock: Liner Lock
  • Handle: Nylon

Designed with input from military and law enforcement, the RAT 1 is an absolute workhorse. Excellent ergonomics and a proven design. Also available with D2 steel upgrade.

Check Price on Amazon

Premium Tier ($100+)

Benchmade Griptilian 551

~$150

  • Blade: 3.45" S30V Steel
  • Weight: 3.8 oz
  • Lock: AXIS Lock
  • Handle: Noryl GTX (or G10 on 551-1)

The Griptilian is a modern EDC icon. The AXIS lock is legendary for its strength and ease of use. Made in USA with Benchmade's lifetime warranty and LifeSharp sharpening service. The G10 version offers premium handle material.

Check G10 Version on Amazon Check Standard Version

QSP Penguin Titanium S35VN

~$130

  • Blade: 3" S35VN Steel
  • Weight: 2.5 oz
  • Lock: Frame Lock
  • Handle: Titanium with Carbon Fiber

The premium version of the beloved Penguin. Titanium frame lock, S35VN blade, and marbled carbon fiber inlay. Everything that made the original great, elevated to enthusiast levels.

Check Price on Amazon

EDC Knife Laws

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and may not be current. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify local, state, and federal laws before carrying any knife. When in doubt, consult legal counsel or local law enforcement.

General Considerations

Tips for Legal EDC

Research Your Area

Check state laws, county ordinances, and city regulations. Some cities have stricter laws than their states.

When Traveling

Research laws for every jurisdiction you'll pass through. What's legal at home may not be legal elsewhere. Never carry on airplanes (checked luggage only).

Keep it Simple

A plain-looking folding knife under 3" is legal in most US locations. Avoid tactical-looking knives and automatics for everyday carry.

Intent Matters

Carrying a knife as a tool is generally legal. Carrying "as a weapon" changes the legal analysis significantly.

US State Law Overview

Here's a general overview of knife laws in the United States. This is simplified guidance - always verify current laws:

Generally Permissive States

Texas, Arizona, Utah, Montana, Kansas, Alaska, and others have relatively permissive knife laws with few restrictions on blade length or type for adults.

Moderate Restriction States

Most states fall here with limits typically around 3-4" blades, restrictions on automatic knives, and location-based prohibitions.

Stricter States

California, New York, Massachusetts, and others have stricter regulations on blade length, assisted opening mechanisms, and concealed carry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's a good first EDC knife?

For beginners, we recommend the QSP Penguin (~$30) or CIVIVI Elementum (~$50). Both offer excellent quality at affordable prices, allowing you to learn what you like in a knife before investing more.

How often should I sharpen my EDC knife?

It depends on use and steel type. Budget steels may need sharpening every few weeks with regular use, while premium steels can go months. Strop regularly between sharpenings to maintain the edge. A good rule: sharpen when the knife stops slicing paper cleanly.

Is a more expensive knife worth it?

It depends on your priorities. Premium knives ($100+) typically offer better steel (longer edge retention), superior fit and finish, smoother action, and better warranty support. However, today's budget knives (like the Penguin or Elementum) are remarkably good. Start budget, then upgrade if you want better steel or specific features.

What's the best steel for EDC?

There's no single "best" - it depends on your needs. For most users, S30V/S35VN offers the best balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness. On a budget, D2 or 14C28N offer excellent value. For maximum edge retention, look at 20CV/M390.

Serrated or plain edge?

For general EDC, plain edge is more versatile and easier to maintain. Serrations excel at cutting rope, webbing, and fibrous materials but are harder to sharpen. If you regularly cut these materials, consider a partially serrated blade as a compromise.

What size blade is best for EDC?

Most people find 2.75" to 3.25" ideal for everyday tasks. This size handles most cutting jobs while remaining legal in most jurisdictions. Under 2.5" can feel limiting; over 3.5" may be overkill for typical EDC tasks and face more legal restrictions.

How do I maintain the pivot action?

Apply a drop of knife-specific oil (like Blade Premium Knife Oil) to the pivot area every few weeks. Open and close the knife several times to distribute, then wipe excess. If action becomes gritty, clean the pivot area with isopropyl alcohol first, let dry, then re-lubricate.

What's the difference between assisted and automatic opening?

Assisted opening: Requires manual pressure to begin opening (thumb stud/flipper), then a spring takes over to finish. Legal in most areas. Automatic (switchblade): A button press alone deploys the blade with no manual initiation. Restricted or banned in many jurisdictions. Check your local laws.

Steel Comparison Tool

Compare two knife steels side by side: