I get requests regarding the best pocket knife for self defense and I want to address that by first saying that there are similarities with the other types.
A pocket knife is extremely compact and can vary in size depending on the model and manufacturer. There are different types of manufacture and different craft styles that determine different colors or features. There are also knives for men, and unisex knives.
The smaller it is, the easier it is for practical prople: the usefulness in situations like hiking, camping, do-it-yourself, self-defense and much more.
I’d like to show you some of the most critical features. Whether you are looking for the best pocket knife for self defense or camping, my goal is to help you find the one that suits you best:
The design of the knife
The design of a knife is essential in winning the buyer, but it also serves to convey the feeling of its effectiveness.
You may want a completely black knife if you don’t want the blade to shine. A modified tip on the blade to cut hard knots. The ergonomic handle of a pocket knife for self defense may display a specific texture to improve grip. Those details do more than just please the eye.
Some manufacturers print or engrave the side of the blade with their logos. These are all visual details that can bring some customers closer or push them away. For a beginner, I recommend evaluating the aesthetics of design as the last factor: it is certainly the first thing you notice in a pocket knife, but many times the design depends on particular needs.
Dimensions and weight
Dimensions and weight are very important because they are inextricably linked to the end-user. You may want a heavy pocket camping knife as the weight could help you be more alert.
The best pocket knife for self defense should weigh as a feather. Think of a hiker who needs to defend himself quickly against an animal.
I evaluate the difference between resting dimensions and dimensions after lengthening. The long blade could hinder you.
The standard weight of a pocket knife is around 2.6 ounces. Light knives weigh just over 1 ounce. If heavier, I ask the seller why, because I like the stories behind the reasons, and they always teach me something new.
The blade
The most useful part of the pocket knife must be judged by the quality of the materials and the forging. Manufacturers create fine blades by applying special coatings or treatments that make the blade more resistant to rust and corrosive agents. There are also straight edge blades, and serrated blades.
There are several types of stainless steel on the market. They have particular acronyms, which I learned about over the years. For example, 7Cr17 steel is highly appreciated because it’s very light and perfect for precision cuts as in the case of kitchen knives.
Would you believe that manufacturers produce their best pocket knife for self defense using cheap steel? There is no real consensus: each brand has its steel supplier. If you don’t choose the type of steel, low quality is a matter of personal experience.
To give examples of poor steel quality, I am referring to blades that break or bend. Usually, the tip of low-quality knives spurts away. But there may be another reason.
Sometimes, the cause of a poor blade is forging. I look at the blade and verify that it has been fully welded in a single piece and with triple riveting, if possible. Read the package for these details. Forging is the part that determines hardness and resistance of the product: knives are like jewels, they need expertise.
The handle
The choice of the handle is very important, especially for very small knives.
A switchblade knife could feature a handle with resins to ensure a secure and moisture-resistant grip. The best pocket knife for self defense has a handle that does not become slippery, especially when blood wets it.
I want to specify that knives have different purposes: when I talk about the best pocket knife for self defense I want to remind you the extreme cases in which a knife can save our lives. Violence can sometimes be an option, but it should always be considered as a last option. The wrong handle may cause injuries to your own hands.
When I evaluate a handle, I like to evaluate the materials used and the presence of rings that make it easier for me to attach the knife to strings and extendable belts.
To find the best pocket knife suited for you, read here.