William FowlerWhen making the decision to purchase a folding knife, most people would not want to spend more than $100. These knives aren’t extremely specialized as most people will keep them in their pockets for everyday tasks. But, if you plan on using this kind of knife for basic everyday tasks, you don’t want to buy a cheap quality knife either.
This article will explore several kinds of folding knives that you can purchase for under $100. The hope is that we present quality knives for an affordable price. There are many variations of the knives, so keep in mind the blade type, weight, handle style, and expectations of the device.
If you are short on time or just want a quick answer?
Check out our list below for the best folding knife under $100. If you are interested, check our detailed summary in the article below.
- Spyderco Chaparral FRN
- Kershaw Bareknuckle
- CRKT Pilar
- CIVIVI Shard
- Ontario Rat
- Cold Steel American Lawman
Why Are Folding Knives so Popular?
In the world of knives, there is a clear winner when it comes to popularity: folding knives. But why are these knives so popular? Here are a few reasons.
First, folding knives are incredibly versatile. They can be used for everything from opening boxes to self-defense. This versatility is appealing to many people.
Second, folding knives are usually smaller and more compact than other types of knives. This makes them easy to carry around, which is ideal for people who want a knife handy at all times but don’t want to lug around a large, bulky knife.
Finally, some folding knives often have cool features that other knives don’t have, like built-in flashlights or seat belt cutters. These added features make them even more appealing to people who are looking for a practical and stylish knife.
Fun Outdoor Quiz
Folding Knives vs. Fixed Blade Knives
When it comes to knives, there are two main types: folding knives and fixed blade knives. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the right knife for the task at hand.
Folding knives are more convenient to carry because they can be easily stored in a pocket or pouch. They’re also less likely to accidentally injure someone when they’re not in use. However, folding knives are less sturdy than fixed blade knives and can be more difficult to sharpen.
Fixed blade knives are sturdier and easier to sharpen than folding knives, but they’re also bulkier and more difficult to carry around. They’re also more likely to accidentally injure someone if they’re not properly secured.
Best Folding Knife Under $100
Spyderco Chaparral FRN
The Spyderco Chaparral FRN makes an extremely quality folding knife. It comes with a smaller blade length of 2.8 inches long. The knife has a classic drop point shape, full flat grind, 50/50 forward choil as a grip, a hole for your thumb, with a nice blade to cut through many things.
Considering this is CTS-XHP blade steel, consumers are getting a great value for money. The FRN handles are perfectly molded to fit perfectly in your hands with bi-directional texturing for a solid grip. It also comes equipped with a simple lockback that secures the blade. Weighing in at 2.0 ounces with an overall length of 6.4 inches, the Spyderco is a simple, but effective folding knife.
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Kershaw Bareknuckle
This knife is a little on the bigger side, but it carries well because of its slim nature and deep pocket clip. It contains a floating backspacer with a unique looking pivot screw to make it stand out in looks. Its grey handles made from aluminum finish out the classy look.
Made from Sandvik 13c28n steel, the Bareknuckle hosts a 3.5-inch blade. Its ability to retain an edge is average. It weighs 3.6 ounces and is 8.2 inches fully stretched out. A stonewashed finish on the blade provides a rugged, tough, and roughed up look that does a solid job of hiding scratches, dents, and dirt.
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
CRKT Pilar
This durable and affordable folding knife is the best knife that you will come across. The blade measures 2.65 inches and comes in regular stainless handles, lighter G10 handles, or a G10 handle model that comes with a D2 blade (holds an edge much better). What people seem to enjoy most about this knife is that it is not terrifying. This is an affordable and usable knife that comes with genuine character.
A thumb slot deployment feature with a bead blast handle finish really top off this interesting knife. The knife also comes with a limited lifetime warranty that covers any defects in materials or workmanship. Weighing in at 4.2 ounces with an overall length of 5.9 inches, the CRKT Pilar fits the description for affordable folding knives.
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
CIVIVI Shard
The shard knife could be yours. This is a compact knife with a blade that falls under 3 inches long. The blade is made of D2 tool steel, which makes people delighted with its edge retention and sturdiness. A flipper tab allows for easy deployment with help from a pivot that provides smooth action. With a big selection available, you can choose to have a brown, blue, neon yellow, or red colored knife.
A carbon fiber insert in the G-10 handles can be expected from consumers. G-10 backspacers with geared texture for grip are also provided to match the color of your knife. You also get the advantage of having a 3D titanium pocket clip, which is surprising considering the price. Weighing in at 3.1 ounces with a full length of 7.0 inches, the CIVIVI Shard delivers in what you would expect for a folding knife.
Ontario Rat
Who doesn’t want to carry at Rat around? The Rat series are some of the most recognizable knives on the market. Users can purchase two different sizes depending on what they intend to use the knife for. This model has a 3.6-inch blade while the D2 has a 3-inch blade. Many models come with regular steel, but you have the option to upgrade to D2 tool steel for only a few bucks more. This kind of steel would also come with corrosion resistance for toughness and edge retention.
RAT knives are so well known because they perform the tasks you would expect from a folding knife at a price that is exceptionally affordable. Users also have the option of many different sizes, coatings, colors, and steel types to choose from. You can also expect to receive a 4 position pocket clip upon purchase. The pivot is very straightforward, but you can expect smooth actions with a reliable thumb stud and phosphor bronze pivot washers. If you are overwhelmed with picking the right kind of folding knife, you can never go wrong with the RAT series.
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Cold Steel American Lawman
The final knife that we will be looking at is the Cold Steel American Lawman. It doesn’t provide anything fancy to the consumer but delivers in so many different areas. CPM S35VN is great for an outdoor knife due to its edge retention balance, toughness, and easy sharpening.
It features a Tri-Ad lock, in which a stop pin is placed between the tang of the lockbar and the blade. The purpose behind this is to eliminate the wear and tear of normal lockbacks. Users can expect two finger deep choils with grippy G10 scales with a nice palm swell. This is not the kind of knife that you would play around with by flipping it open and closed. It has a purpose and sticks to it. Weighing in at 4 ounces with a stretched out length of 8.1-inches, the Cold Steel American Lawman does not disappoint.
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
There are many more knives out there for a budget of under $100. These have come with solid ratings and all are known for their durability and ability to complete the expected tasks of a folding knife.
Jimmy Hubbs
