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![holding the gerber dibs knife and some chillis](https://knifeinformer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/gerbermex_holdingthegerberdibsknifeandsomechillis-1024x597.jpg)
Folding knives have long ruled the world of everyday carry (EDC) thanks to their compact size and lightweight construction. Consequently, fixed blade knives often get left out of the discussion of EDC knives entirely. What these blades lose in concealability, they gain in strength and versatility.
With that in mind, we set out to identify the best EDC fixed blade knives available today. We wanted knives that fit a specific niche and could handle a wide range of tasks, from food prep to ripping cardboard and field-dressing deer.
With these diverse uses in mind, we sought to find the best EDC fixed blade knives being manufactured today. Additionally, we will delve into the crucial factors to consider when choosing EDC knives with fixed blades, equipping you with the knowledge to make a wise purchase.
Key Considerations
When choosing the knives for this list, I made many considerations. There are many factors to consider for an EDC fixed blade knife. Among the more important ones were:
- Cost and Availability: It would be easy to list the most expensive knives and call it a day. However, not everyone has the budget to drop $300+ on a single knife that’s been handcrafted of the highest quality steel. Some people aren’t trying to impress anyone, they just want an affordable work knife. Therefore, I looked at the full spectrum of price points. I focused only on readily available blades. So, don’t take it personally if your favorite brand, limited-run blade, or long-discontinued blade didn’t make the cut here.
- Size: I focused mainly on knives with blade lengths of four inches and under, mainly because a shorter blade is preferable for most of the everyday uses I described earlier. However, shorter blades are also more comfortable to carry in a sheath on a belt.
- Tang: The strength and leverage of a fixed blade depends mainly on the tang. Full tangs are my preferred choice for jobs like wood batoning or splitting a deer’s sternum. Given their strength in the long run, I primarily looked for full-tang knives.
- Scales: Everyone’s preferences are going to vary a little here. Some people prefer the traditional feel of wooden handles; others appreciate the durability of resin materials like G-10 or Micarta. Thus, I evaluated each blade’s handles based on performance and pure working abilities rather than my personal preferences.
- Steel Type: Knives meant for EDC see frequent use. Therefore, we tried to select blades with steel that could retain an edge well and sharpen easily. We know that’s not always an option to get both qualities. Thus, we will explain why one quality is worth the tradeoff when it comes up.
Top Picks
- Best Overall: Benchmade Mini Bushcrafter
- Best Budget: Gerber Gear Dibs
- Best For Hunters: TOPS Knives 3 Pointer
- Best For Concealment: Esee Izula II
- Most Unique: Ka-Bar Forged Wrench Knife
- Best Compact: CRKT Minimalist Drop Point
- Best For Wet Environments: Benchmade Intersect
![holding a crkt drop point knife by the handle](https://knifeinformer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/swiftypaddler_holdingacrktdroppointknifebythehandle.jpg)
Best Overall: Benchmade Mini Bushcrafter
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The top choice for best fixed blade knives for EDC was easy with the Benchmade Mini Bushcrafter. This knife is essentially a scaled-down version of their popular Bushcrafter knife. Just like the original, this knife was razor-sharp out of the box. That is primarily thanks to the premium quality CPM S30V stainless steel used in the construction. It won’t be easy to re-sharpen, but I doubt I’ll need to do it often. The edge retention was excellent during my tests, even after ripping some heavy-duty cardboard. This knife also effortlessly cut paper, paracord, and even braided fishing lines cleanly during my testing. Through it all, the handle helped provide excellent control for the beefy blade. This knife has a squared spine that works well with a Ferro rod for firestarting.
I don’t mind billboarding, but I know it bothers some knife enthusiasts. Thus, some may not like the Benchmade logo, “S30V,” and “Sibert” stampings on the blade. However, the logos are smaller than some other Benchmade offerings. Benchmade made the Mini Bushcrafter as beefy as the original. Subsequently, it weighs a hefty 6.53 ounces. However, I think the added strength of the blade is worth the weight trade-off. This +knife does cover a wide range of potential users, too. It is the ideal survival knife that transitions well to everyday work and backpacking scenarios.
Best Budget: Gerber Gear Dibs
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In my experience, Gerber Gear products strike the perfect balance between affordability and functionality. The Dibs is another example. Because the handle was skeletonized, this knife weighs just two ounces, making it shockingly light to hold. Because of its weight and length, it is easy to carry inside a pants pocket. Gerber gave this knife a simple clip-point blade. This blade is ideal for minor food prep, cardboard ripping, and other light tasks.
Gerber pairs this knife with a lighter-colored leather sheath. Although the sheath is adequate, it contrasts sharply with the knife’s matte black finish. It isn’t subtle, and an optional Kydex sheath would have been nice here. Gerber used 440A stainless steel here. This is a trade-off situation because this knife is extremely easy to sharpen. However, because of the steel and skeletonized nature of the handle, this knife loses some hardness and strength. Gerber does have an excellent limited lifetime warranty to back it. For $25, this is an easily replaceable work knife for anyone hard on their blades.
Best For Hunters: TOPS Knives 3 Pointer
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I was first introduced to TOPS knives last year and continue to be impressed by their quality and craftsmanship. The 3 Pointer is an excellent EDC fixed blade knife for hunters who need something beyond the field. The Kydex sheath is easily adjustable for multiple carry styles. This knife is ready to work straight from the package. I like the 3.13” blade here for skinning and field dressing work. The 1095 steel is also easy to sharpen back up after the hunt is over.
The main downside of this knife is that the handle is a hair short. Some people with larger hands may not find it comfortable for more demanding jobs. The most surprising thing about TOPS knives is the value of their offerings. The 3 Pointer starts at just $100. That makes this knife a great bargain, especially when factoring in that TOPS does all the grind work by hand.
Best For Concealment: Esee Izula II
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The Izula II’s slim profile lends itself well to horizontal carry on a belt with minimal printing under a shirt. Because of its light 3.2-ounce weight, this knife carries nicely from a loop around the neck and on a pack. We prefer the Izula II over the original simply because it has a slightly longer handle. It is just a better choice for larger hands. This knife version also has a canvas micarta grip that won’t slip in wet conditions. The choice of 1095 high carbon steel is also a good one here. This steel is easy to re-sharpen while maintaining good hardness and edge retention. This type of steel is susceptible to rusting, but properly maintained, this knife will last for years. Esee also has a good warranty backing it, so that’s a minor concern.
This is another knife for which the sheath will be hit or miss for most users. Fortunately, there are a ton of aftermarket sheath options, so finding an alternative for users who don’t like the stock polymer is easy. This knife usually sells for around $85, making it an attractive mid-range option, especially if you like American-made. Another nice feature is that Esee offers multiple finish and color options for the Izula II. There is an Izula II for almost everyone’s preferences and tastes here.
Most Unique: Ka-Bar Forged Wrench Knife
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The Ka-Bar Wrench Knife gets its name from the distinctive handle, which resembles a traditional metal wrench. I’ve had this knife for about a year, and it’s proven reliable and straightforward. It’s excellent for messy work environments with things like wood dust, metal shavings, or substances like glue or sealant. That is because there are no locking mechanisms or other parts to clog with debris. When I finished a field dressing job on a whitetail with it, it took less than a minute to clean. There are no mechanisms to trap dirt, blood, or hair. At the same time, it’s a full-tang design, so there’s strength for those moments where leverage is needed.
Although I like the simple wrench grip, it will be hit or miss with some users. My only other complaint is that the polymer sheath isn’t great. However, the wrench knife also took up minimal space in my hunting bag, making an ideal backup. The slim profile makes carrying this knife all day easy. My knife came straight from Ka-Bar with an excellent edge. I found it sharpens pretty quickly. Depending on the retailer, the wrench knife is listed from $45 to $60. It’s a solid price point for anyone who needs a working knife on a budget.
Best Compact: CRKT Minimalist Drop Point
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The great thing about the Minimalist is that CRKT offers multiple configurations and blade styles . However, I like the drop point for EDC. It excels in everything from ripping cardboard to more delicate tasks like food prep. I tested the 154CM steel and Micarta handle version. This steel did an excellent job of holding an edge even after I subjected it to some heavy cardboard. It’s the perfect size and steel combination for a fishing knife. The blade slices effortlessly through tough braided lines. The knife’s overall length makes it easy to slip into a pants pocket or outer storage area of a backpack.
My only real complaint about this knife is that the handle is shorter than it looks. I like the feel but can get only three fingers on the grip. This grip takes some getting used to for more delicate tasks. The jimping does help with that. The spine is also square enough to spark a Ferro rod. This is a knife that can transition from EDC to backpacking quite easily.
Best For Wet Environments: Benchmade Intersect
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The Intersect is one of Benchmade’s newest offerings and utilizes CPM MagnaCut steel. This steel is as good as advertised, especially for edge retention. This will be a good choice for saltwater fishermen because of the steel’s corrosion-resistant qualities. This knife was razor sharp out of the box. I effortlessly sliced cardboard and braid fishing line with this blade. I love the feel of the polymer handle and the jimping that extends onto the handle. The control here is fantastic for smaller precision jobs, especially if you have butterfingers like I do.
The sheath is solid, too. Although I’m unsure how much I trust the belt loop clip, it’s a comfortable pocket carry. MagnaCut is a harder steel that’s difficult to sharpen. It’s also a premium steel that drives the price to around $180. That’s a little bit expensive for a dedicated fishing knife. However, I think this thing will transition well to regular EDC, especially for anyone working in a wet environment.
![the benchmade intersect knife on a red rock](https://knifeinformer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/benchmadeknifecompany_thebenchmadeintersectknifeonaredrock.jpg)
How To Choose The Best EDC Fixed Blade Knives
Weight
Since EDC knives are expected to be carried around all day, weight is a significant factor. Though everyone’s preferences will vary, 2 to 4 ounces is usually the sweet spot. Anything heavier than that can be uncomfortable for pocket carry. If the standard version of a knife feels too heavy, then try a skeletonized version. Sometimes, a slightly shorter blade can help reduce the weight factor.
Steel Type
High carbon or stainless steel is preferable for most EDC knives. Most high-carbon steels, such as 1095, are more affordable and easier to resharpen. The downside is reduced edge retention and corrosion resistance. Conversely, quality stainless steel, like CPM-S30V, has incredible corrosion resistance and edge retention. However, that quality comes with a much higher price point and increased difficulty in sharpening. Thus, finding the perfect steel for each user is often a balancing act. We recommend buying the best quality steel you can afford.
Blade Shape
Although EDC blades come in various styles, most users will find a simple drop point or clip point most effective. The choice mainly depends on the knife’s intended use. A drop point offers more strength and effectiveness for bushcraft or game dressing. Clip-point knives have a thinner tip that’s better for precision tasks or penetration. This profile does come at some cost of strength.
Sheath
Since they don’t fold, fixed blades require a good sheath to be carried safely all day. Most users carry in a horizontal or vertical position from a belt loop. Aftermarket sheaths often outshine the ones provided by the manufacturer. Consider the thickness of the sheath if planning to carry the knife concealed. The bulkier the sheath, the more it will print through clothing, negating the whole point of concealment.
Why Trust Us
I have been an outdoor writer for more than a decade, covering many of today’s top knife brands for outdoor publications like Wide Open Spaces and Field & Stream. Subsequently, I’ve gotten the chance to handle, collect, and test hundreds of knives. I’ve tested everything from the cheapest of $5 bargain bin knives to the latest in $500 automatic folders.
Additionally, I’ve developed some relatively rigid tests and standards for the knives I’ll recommend. Each knife must pass a series of edge retention tests cutting through various materials.
![the Benchmade Mini Bushcrafter and Leather Sheath](https://knifeinformer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/packratoc_theBenchmadeMiniBushcrafterandLeatherSheath.jpg)
Final Thoughts
EDC fixed-blade knives may not get as much love as folders, but they are more than capable. For some jobs, the strength advantage makes them a better option than folders. The Mini Bushcrafter from Benchmade is my top pick based on the quality of the construction and edge retention. The Intersect is my second favorite, thanks to its perfect size and excellent handle.
FAQs
Q: Are fixed blades good for everyday carry?
A: Fixed-blade knives are an excellent option for everyday carry. In some cases, they can outperform folders, mainly because fixed blades offer more strength through the handle region. The trick is finding a blade that isn’t overly bulky or long. A blade that can still easily tuck into a pocket is preferable.
Q: What type of blade is best for EDC?
A: Drop point blades are usually considered the best blade type for EDC. This style of blade offers the right combination of functionality and strength. A clip point blade is better for wood carving and delicate trimming tasks. The narrow nature of the tip makes it easier to get into tight areas to snip tight zip ties or trim fishing knots.
Q: How often should I sharpen my EDC knife?
A: Depending on how frequently it is used, an EDC knife should be sharpened often. People who rip cardboard daily for work might need to sharpen it every week. Someone who uses their knife infrequently might be able to go months between sharpening. It’s preferable to sharpen any time you feel resistance while cutting. A dull blade is more dangerous to use than a sharp one.