BEST SURVIVAL KNIVES
CRKT Sketch Folder
The Sketch is a great example of what makes an excellent EDC knife. Simple, understated, and it just plain works. It has a blade length barely under 3 inches and stretches to a little over 6.5 inches when open. A frame lock keeps the blade secure while you work, and the 8Cr14MoV steel will keep a sharp edge. A thumb hole at the spine provides one-handed opening capability. The K-tip blade profile is very handy, especially when fine detail work is needed.
TOPS Knives XXX Dicer
Combine a wide spatula with a chef’s knife and you’re on the right track for the XXX Dicer. Part of the growing kitchen collection from TOPS Knives, it measures 8.88 inches from tip to butt, with the blade stretching 7 inches of that length. The handle is red and black G-10, providing a positive grip no matter what you’re slicing. The 440C steel blade will stand up to years of use, whether you’re in the kitchen or the backcountry.
TOPS Knives Street Spike
The Street Spike is simplicity itself. Start with a slab of quarter-inch 1095 steel and skeletonize the handle to reduce the weight. Radius the handle edges for comfort so you don’t need to add scales and you’re good to go. It's easy to carry, easy to conceal and easy to use for a wide range of tasks. Even with the Kydex sheath, it is small enough to fit into a pocket or on a neck chain. The plan was to create a no-frills tool that is easy to keep on your body and TOPS succeeded on both counts.
Spyderco Astute Folder
The Astute is a folder that punches way above its weight class. It has a four-position pocket clip as well as a lanyard hole, allowing a wide range of carry options. The blade is 8Cr13MoV steel, and it has a gently curving flat grind edge. A liner lock keeps you safe while you work and the textured G-10 scales keep the knife in your hand, even in cold or wet conditions. All in all, the Astute provides all the quality Spyderco is known for and at a value price point.
