Top Five EDC Pocket Knives
As a country clothing brand, Hollands understands the importance of having the right gear for the outdoors, and we want to help you make an informed decision when it comes to your pocket knife.
With so many trusted brands and a wide variety of designs on the market, finding the perfect knife is easier than ever before. Our goal is to help you choose the best knife that meets your needs and fits comfortably in your pocket.
So, let's dive in and explore the world of the pocket knife!
What is a Pocket Knife?
If you're new to the world of knives, you may be wondering, "What exactly is a pocket knife?" Simply put, a pocket knife is a type of knife that's small enough to fit in your pocket.
You've probably heard of Swiss Army Knives, but pocket knives come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles. However, they all share the same basic functionality: they're designed to be carried on your person and used for everyday tasks.
Whether you're cutting open a box, slicing through some rope, or sharpening a stick for roasting marshmallows, a good pocket knife is a vital tool to have on hand.
What is a Pocket Knife Used For?
A pocket knife is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks.
From everyday tasks like opening boxes to rigorous cutting tasks like carving wood or filleting fish, a pocket knife can handle it all.
Whether you're camping in the wilderness or taking on DIY jobs around the home, a pocket knife can come in handy in a wide range of situations.
Key Features of Pocket Knives
There are a few defining characteristics of a good pocket knife:
- Compact small size - they are designed to not weigh you down or to take up too much space in your pocket
- Sharp blade - it goes without saying really, but it's an important feature nevertheless! The blade needs to be nice and sharp so you can get that expert precision
- Short blade length - typically, the blades measure from 2 to 3.5 inches long
- Solid handle - the handle grip needs to be solid and sturdy, particularly when you take note of characteristic #2!
There are many different types of these knives on the market, each with their own unique features and benefits.
Overview of Different Types of Pocket Knives
When choosing a type of pocket knife, it's important to consider what you'll be using it for and what features are most important to you. There are many factors to consider, and there's no one-size-fits-all solution.
When searching for the best option, the choice of material plays a crucial factor in the knife's performance.
You can usually choose between carbon, stainless, and tool steel, and there are pros and cons to each:
- Carbon steel blade: considered durable, but needs a little bit more TLC as the metal is susceptible to corrosion
- Stainless steel blade: less hardy, but slightly cheaper and easier to maintain
- Tool steel blade: considered strong and has good corrosion resistance.
You will also be able to find modern knives with different opening and locking mechanisms. Again, it's largely due to personal preference and intended purpose, but essentially some tools will have a mechanism that locks a blade into place when it's open, making it more secure. Different types include liner locks and frame locks.
You can also choose multi-tool pocket knives that combines different functions in a single device. These knives can come with a variety of tools, such as pliers, screwdrivers, saws, scissors, and can openers. They are ideal for packing into your outdoor gear and for those who require a compact, all-in-one tool.
Best Pocket Knives for Everyday
These knives are a must-have and practical tool for anyone.
Here at Hollands we have a great range of traditional pocket knives and more modern designs from famous brands and trusted hunting brands.
To give you a stepping stone into which are some of the best, we've highlighted a few of our favourites here.
1. Jack Pyke Shires Knife
The Jack Pyke Shires Knife is an ideal knife for everyday use that strikes a balance between form and function.
One of the key features is its durable and strong stainless steel locking blade, which ensures safe and secure actions for rigorous cutting tasks on tough materials. The knife also comes with a handy leather sheath to protect the blade when not in use.
The rosewood handle of the Jack Pyke Shires Knife adds a touch of elegance to this high-quality knife. What's unique is that the handle offers an exclusive design choice of deer, fish, hunter, or pheasant - making it an excellent choice for knife enthusiasts.
As a UK-based company, Jack Pyke has built a reputation for producing dependable and durable knives. Their Shires Knife is no exception and is an excellent piece of gear to have on hand.
2. Opinel Classic Originals Knife
Opinel Classic Originals Knife is a must-have affordable tool that is ideal for daily tasks, including being out on the farm or fishing.
The knife's Virobloc Safety system ensures that the blade is locked in place when open, helping to prevent accidents. The varnished beechwood handle offers outstanding grip, ensuring that you can use it for extended periods without experiencing discomfort.
Opinel Classic Originals Knife comes with both carbon and stainless steel blade options, giving you the flexibility to choose the blade that suits your needs. The carbon blade is known for its ability to hold a sharp edge for a long time, while the stainless steel blade is corrosion-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
This simple yet functional knife has become a popular option among many due to its great price, different blade lengths, and excellent handling capabilities. It also comes in a non-locking version.
3. Leatherman Skeletool KBX Knife
The Leatherman Skeletool KBX Knife is an excellent everyday carry knife that is a top choice for anyone who needs a reliable tool by their side.
This lightweight pocket knife weighs just 1.3 oz and features a strong, sharp combo straight/serrated blade that is perfect for daily tasks and tough cutting tasks alike. It also comes with a built-in bottle opener so you can crack open a cold one after a hard day's work.
One of the standout features of the Skeletool KBX Knife is its safety lock blade, plus its comfortable handle while in use. This knife also boasts an attractive design and comes in four colourways, making it a great gift or addition to any collection.
If you're searching for pocket knives UK, then the Leatherman Skeletool KBX Knife is definitely worth checking out. With its combination of excellent build quality and ease of use, this sleek knife is sure to become one of your favourites in no time.
4. Leatherman Free T2 Multi-Tool
With eight essential tools, including a screwdriver and bottle opener, this Leatherman Free T2 Multi-Tool is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a sturdy and dependable piece of gear.
One of the most notable features of the Leatherman Free T2 is its revolutionary magnetic locking system, which allows for smooth and quick access to all of the tools on the knife. This innovative design also makes it incredibly easy to operate with just one hand, making it perfect for those who need to multitask.
In addition, this tool also features a range of other key features, from its pocket-friendly size to its comfortable and ergonomic handle. And with its tough construction from high-quality steel, this pocket knife is sure to be a reliable companion for years to come.
Overall, the Leatherman Free T2 Multi-Tool is an excellent choice for anyone in need of a reliable and sturdy pocket knife. So if you’re in the market for a cutting-edge multi-tool, be sure to give this one a closer look!
5. Buck Bantam BBW Knife
Looking for a reliable and durable knife for your everyday needs? Look no further than the Buck Bantam BBW Knife.
Made in the USA, this knife boasts a lockback mechanism and thumb studs on either side of the blade for easy one-handed opening, making it a great option for those who need a quick and convenient tool. Its sturdy lock mechanism, combined with a comfortable handle, offers a firm and reliable grip.
What sets the Buck Bantam BBW Knife apart from other knives is its rigorous heat treatment process, which ensures a longer edge life, ease of re-sharpening, and unrivalled blade quality. This makes it an excellent choice for those who demand the best from their tools.
If you're a fan of traditional pocket knives, the Buck Bantam BBW Knife is sure to impress. With a blade length that is just right for most daily tasks, and a lightweight design that won't weigh down your pants pockets, this knife strikes the perfect middle ground for everyday use.
UK Legal Carrying Requirements
In the UK, there are strict laws in place regarding the carrying of knives in public places. Anyone caught carrying a knife illegally can face serious consequences. Therefore, it's crucial to understand the legal requirements before carrying a pocket knife in the UK.
According to the UK law, it is illegal to carry any knife in public places without a reasonable excuse. The maximum blade length of a pocket knife that can be carried legally in a public place is three inches or 7.62 centimetres. If your knife has a blade length exceeding 3 inches, you must have a valid reason for carrying it in public.
Furthermore, carrying other types of knives that are designed to cause harm, such as automatic knives and gravity knives, is strictly prohibited in the UK. These types of knives are considered illegal to carry in public places, regardless of their blade length.
If you've ever unsure as to whether you can carry your knife around with you, check in with your local police station.
Summary
Now we've discussed purpose, features, and top choices, hopefully you will have found your new favourite. But check out our full collection for further inspiration and fantastic choices.
Investing in a good pocket knife makes your every day just that little bit easier, and that's what we at Hollands always hope to help you with. So whether you're a hunter, farmer, hiker, or general all-round outdoor enthusiast, we have a pocket knife for you.
