Folding knife best in test - Which is the best folding knife?

A folding knife is a reliable and practical everyday tool, perfect for carrying around whether you're using it for small jobs at home or taking it on an outdoor adventure. With a folding blade, it is easy to carry in your pocket and is suitable for a variety of tasks within EDC (Everyday Carry), hunting, fishing and outdoor activities. A folding knife can be used for everything from cutting rope and preparing food to handling simple repairs or creating kindling in the wild.

Among the folding knives that are considered the best on the market, there are models for different areas of use. The Benchmade Bugout series, for example, is known for its light weight and durability - a big favorite. The SOG Terminus XR with S35VN steel is a robust choice that can handle the tougher tasks, while the Fällkniven Phantom offers a more exclusive feel with its elegant appearance and anniversary edition. In this guide, we take a closer look at these and other models to help you find the right folding knife, whether you're looking for something light and handy or something more luxurious for special occasions.

The 6 best folding knives

Here's a guide to the six best folding knives in our opinion, carefully selected for their quality, functionality and unique features. For those looking for a reliable knife for everyday use, outdoor life or adventure, this is a set of knives that can handle many different situations.

In this list you'll find the Benchmade Bugout, a lightweight but durable favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, and its compact sibling the Mini Bugout – perfect for easy portability. The SOG Terminus XR S35VN offers a durable construction and high-quality steel, ideal for tougher tasks. The Phantom folding knife is a more exclusive option, with an elegant design for those looking for something out of the ordinary. The 5.11 Tactical Ryker DP Mini and CRKT Pilar Large G10 round out the list as excellent all-around knives, both robust and reliable in all kinds of environments.

Choice of folding knife

Choosing the right folding knife is about matching the knife's characteristics with your specific needs and the environment in which you plan to use it. Folding knives are incredibly versatile tools that can be used for everything from everyday tasks to more demanding adventures. Below is a guide that will help you understand what differentiates different models and how you can find the knife that best suits your lifestyle.

Folding knives for everyday use (EDC)

For everyday use, also called EDC (Everyday Carry), it is often advantageous to have a light and compact knife. EDC folding knives are designed to be easily carried in a pocket or attached to a belt, making them perfect companions in everyday situations. Here, models like the Benchmade Mini Bugout and the CRKT Pilar Large G10 are excellent options.

• Benchmade Mini Bugout: This knife is small and nimble, making it ideal for those who need a knife for lighter tasks. Despite its size, it is made with durable materials and has an excellent blade quality.
• CRKT Pilar Large G10: This model has a robust design, yet is compact enough to carry daily. It is particularly suitable for smaller tasks such as opening packages, cutting rope or preparing food in simpler situations.

Folding knives for outdoor life

If you plan to use the folding knife in tougher environments, for example during camping, hiking or other outdoor activities, it is wise to choose a more robust model. Knives like the SOG Terminus XR and 5.11 Tactical Ryker DP Mini are designed to withstand higher stresses and offer reliable performance in more demanding situations.

• SOG Terminus XR: This knife is equipped with S35VN steel, a material known for its durability and sharpness. It also has an XR locking mechanism that makes it stable and secure, even in rough conditions.
• 5.11 Tactical Ryker DP Mini: With its construction in durable materials and its stable locking mechanism, this knife is an excellent choice for outdoor activities. It is slightly larger and heavier than a traditional EDC knife, making it more suitable for heavier tasks.

Exclusive folding knives

For those looking for a folding knife that is both a tool and a collector's item, an exclusive model like the Fällkniven Phantom can be an interesting option. This type of knife is best suited for those who appreciate both aesthetics and functionality, and who see the knife as an investment in craftsmanship and quality.

• The Phantom folding knife: This model is designed to be something out of the ordinary. With its elegant appearance and high-quality materials, the Phantom is both practical and beautiful. It is specially designed for collectors and for those who want a knife that represents high-class Swedish craftsmanship.

Important features

When looking for the best folding knife, there are several features to consider, whether you're looking for a knife for EDC, outdoor living, or as a collector's item:

1. Blade material: The blade's material determines how well the knife retains its sharpness and how resistant it is to rust. Materials such as CPM-S30V and S35VN are known for their durability and are often used in high-quality folding knives.
2. Locking mechanism: A good locking mechanism is important for safety and stability. Common mechanisms are AXIS Lock, XR Lock and Frame Lock. Each type has its advantages depending on the area of ​​use.
3. Handle material: G10, Grivory or wood handles are popular and affect both the weight and grip of the knife. A robust handle provides better control and makes the knife more comfortable to use for longer periods of time.
4. Weight and size: For EDC, a light and compact knife is often preferred, while a larger and heavier knife may be more beneficial for outdoor use and tougher tasks.