Top 10 Everyday Carry Knives for 2024
By Jason R. Caldwell – Tactical Gear Contributor, Bozeman, Montana
This is the 6th blog of the Knife Blog Series. You can check the other blogs I’ve written here: https://thriftyknife.com/blogs
🔍 Introduction: Choosing the Right EDC Knife
Whether you’re working outdoors, commuting in the city, or just value readiness, a good EDC knife is worth its weight in steel. In 2024, we’re seeing premium steels, refined designs, and pocket-friendly upgrades that blend performance with style. Here are 10 standout blades that balance reliability, practicality, and everyday usability.
🔪 Section 1: Top 10 EDC Knives of 2024
1. Hogue Deka (CPM MagnaCut)
Blade Length: 3.25″
Weight: 2.4 oz
Price: ~$125
Why It Stands Out: MagnaCut steel + ultralight build = top-tier performance. Made in the USA and ideal for left- or right-hand carry.
🔗 everydaycarry.com
2. Benchmade Bugout 535
Blade Length: 3.24″
Weight: 1.85 oz
Price: ~$160
Why It Stands Out: One of the lightest full-sized knives on the market with an AXIS lock that’s smooth, safe, and fidget-friendly.
🔗 benchmade.com
3. Spyderco Paramilitary 2
Blade Length: 3.44″
Weight: 3.9 oz
Price: ~$150
Why It Stands Out: Compression lock, excellent ergonomics, and premium steel options make it a workhorse.
🔗 knivesandtools.com
4. CIVIVI Elementum
Blade Length: 2.96″
Weight: 2.89 oz
Price: ~$50
Why It Stands Out: Affordable, elegant, and buttery-smooth flipper action. Ideal starter EDC.
🔗 outdoorlife.com
5. Kershaw Leek
Blade Length: 3.0″
Weight: 3.0 oz
Price: ~$80
Why It Stands Out: Sleek, assisted-open classic with Sandvik steel and a needle-sharp tip.
🔗 kershaw.kaiusa.com
6. Zero Tolerance 0450CF
Blade Length: 3.25″
Weight: 2.7 oz
Price: ~$180
Why It Stands Out: Premium materials, titanium frame, S35VN steel—compact and classy.
🔗 zt.kaiusa.com
7. Ontario RAT II
Blade Length: 3.0″
Weight: 2.7 oz
Price: ~$40
Why It Stands Out: Simple, rugged, and incredibly popular. A budget legend.
🔗 nothingbutknives.com
8. CRKT Pilar III
Blade Length: 2.75″
Weight: 3.8 oz
Price: ~$60
Why It Stands Out: Compact, chunky, and reliable—great in the pocket and hand.
🔗 crkt.com
9. Gerber Fastball
Blade Length: 3.0″
Weight: 2.7 oz
Price: ~$100
Why It Stands Out: Precision detent and fast flipping action with a clean, modern design.
🔗 gerbergear.com
10. Buck 110 Folding Hunter
Blade Length: 3.75″
Weight: 7.2 oz
Price: ~$60
Why It Stands Out: The classic folding knife. Rugged, proven, and packed with nostalgia.
🔗 buckknives.com
🛒 Section 2: Find These at ThriftyKnife.com
At ThriftyKnife.com, we stock many of these and similar blades, including:
🟢 Lightweight folders for daily tasks
🔵 Budget blades for first-time carriers
🔴 Premium steel knives for EDC collectors
All products ship fast, are backed by field-tested experience, and include honest specs—because we use the same blades we sell.
🧠 Conclusion: Choose the Blade That Works for You
EDC isn’t about owning the most expensive knife—it’s about carrying one that suits your life. Whether that’s the lightweight Bugout, the classic Buck 110, or a no-frills RAT II, the right knife is the one you’ll actually use. Stay sharp, stay prepared.
💬 What’s Your Go-To EDC Knife?
I’d love to hear from you. What knife is always in your pocket?
Got a question about lock types, blade steels, or sharpening these models?
🗨️ Drop a comment and I’ll respond with tips, stories, or side-by-side advice.
📅 Thinking of writing next week’s post on “Top Legal EDC Knives for Travel”—interested?