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The 10 best pocket knives to buy in the UK

Picture of a pocket knife

A pocket knife is one of the best tools you can own. They are very useful for a variety of tasks, especially for people that enjoy outdoor recreational activities, while being handy for many everyday jobs. With so many options available, finding the best pocket knife can be easier said than done. There is a lot to consider before buying a pocket knife, and it is important to know what aspects of pocket knife would make them better suited for your personal needs.

What are pocket knives?

A pocket knife is a folding knife that features one or more blades that are folded into the handle when not in use. It’s a great design in that it allows users to safely carry a compact knife without risk of accidental injury, allowing the blade to be quickly accessed whenever needed.

As the name implies, a pocket knife is usually small enough to fit comfortably in a pocket, although there are certain types of models that have a much larger blade and handle. When the blade is removed from the handle, it fully extends, allowing users to grip the handle for more control over the knife.

Why should you buy a good pocket knife?

Pocket knives are a fantastic multi purpose tool with many uses. Their most traditional use is for outdoor recreation, such as fishing, camping, and hunting, although their versatility allows for many more uses, even around the home. From hobbies such as wood carving to prepping in the kitchen, there is no shortage of uses with a pocket knife, so it is no surprise this great tool has remained so popular over the years.

How to choose the right pocket knife in 2024?

Another picture of a pocket knife

With so many great pocket knife options available, finding the best choice for you can take some consideration. There are a lot of different styles of pocket knife, with each one providing their distinct pros and cons.

  • Size: The size of the blade is an obvious thing to consider when looking for the best pocket knife. Traditionally, the blade of the pocket knife is supposed to be quite small. This is great for many purposes but more important for legal reasons. Smaller blades tend to have no legal restrictions on carrying them, making them the best option for most people. Plus, they are much easier to carry, which is why a pocket knife with small blades is the best pocket knife size for the most part.
  • Knife Edge: The type of edge on the blade is very important when choosing a pocket knife, as you want the best pocket knife edge to suit your uses. For instance, a plain edge blade is the most common blade type on a pocket knife and is great for almost any type of cutting, so is a fine option for most buyers. However, a serrated blade may be better suited for some, as it excels in cutting tougher materials due to the additional pressure from the blade.
  • Uses: What do you intend to use the pocket knife for? There are so many uses for one, so knowing your intentions with the pocket knife will ensure you get a good model. Many want a great pocket knife for everyday use, in which case a small, compact model with a comfortable round grip may be the better option. For those out hunting, camping or the like, a more robust and durable pocket knife is worth consideration.

What is the best kind of pocket knife in the UK?

Although there are countless varieties of pocket knives available, many modern types rely on a universal design of a single blade that often lock in place, which can lead to legal restrictions on certain countries. However, traditional pocket knife designs are still viewed as the best types due to their timeless design and functionality.

Here are some popular types widely available today:

  • Barlow Pocket Knife: This pocket knife features two blades, along with a longer, thinner handle. It's great pocket knife that is versatile.
  • Stockman Pocket Knife: This type of pocket knife usually comes with three blades of different design, all of which are fitted with a clip point. Best used for general use, and may lack strength due to thinner blades.
  • Trapper Pocket Knife: Trapper pocket knives are usually larger and consists of a Spey blade and clip blade. Its name derives from being used by trappers, making it a popular skinning blade that is a fine option for outdoor use.

Top 10 list of pocket knives in the UK (2024)

The bestseller list compares brands and their pocket knives. Which pocket knife is the best?
Best choice TOP 1
Image of COVACURE  pocket knife
COVACURE UK Legal Non-Locking Pocket Knife with Silver Skeletonized…
  • -UNLOCKABLE FOLDING BLADE
  • -BLADE UNDER 3 INCHES
  • -The tool features: 1x Non-locking 2.4" folding blade with large cutout for…
BUY NOW
Offer TOP 2
Image of Wolfcraft 4289000 pocket knife
wolfcraft Leisure Knife with Folding Blade I 4289000 I Versatile leisure…
  • safety mechanism when folding and releasing
  • ergonomic metal casing with aluminium grip plates
  • 75 mm blade with serrated cutting edge
BUY NOW
TOP 3
Image of BIBURY  pocket knife
BIBURY 5 in 1 Multitools, Foldable Pliers Multitool Stainless Steel…
  • Product Service - BIBURY team provides customers with quality products and services.…
  • Swiss Designer Team - The Multi-Tool is carefully designed by a Swiss designer team…
  • Great Performance - This type of multitool used super tough and durable stainless…
BUY NOW
TOP 4
Image of Whitby PK75/GY pocket knife
Whitby Pocket Knife, 2.5" Mint Stainless Steel Folding Knives…
  • Whitby Pocket Knives - Whitby & Co. has over 60 years experience distributing…
  • Perfect Balance - The secure handle keeps the blade sharp and protected inside the…
  • Lightweight & Portable - Folding Pocket Knife weighing 50g. Fits perfecting in…
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TOP 5
Image of MLTUOYING YINKOU pocket knife
Stainless Steel Foldable Multifunctional Cutting Tool with Blade and…
  • It fits your keyring, have lighter-duty construction. Lighter and more compact, ideal…
  • No locking structure, easy to open and close.
  • The MLTUOYING sports tool have a durable carbon steel handle, with stainless steel…
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TOP 6
Image of GUIGUZI DSK-H-1 pocket knife
GUIGUZI Locking Carabiner Camping Multitool, Gifts for Men, 6 in 1…
  • Wide range of applicationsThe multitool carabiner is designed locking liner mechanism…
  • Easy to Carry The black stainless steel multi-tool has a beautiful appearance, the…
  • Great PerformanceThis type of multitool used super tough and durable stainless steel…
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TOP 7
Image of Victorinox 1.3613.71 pocket knife
Victorinox Camper Swiss Army Knife, Medium, Multi Tool, Camping Knife,…
  • SPECIFICATIONS: Measurements: 91 mm/3.6 in long × 26 mm/1 in wide × 18…
  • HIGHEST SWISS QUALITY: Victorinox stands for skilled artisanship and innovative design.…
  • WOOD SAW: The Victorinox Camper’s wood saw makes light work of preparing fire…
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TOP 8
Image of Opinel 2540609 pocket knife
Opinel No.6 VRI Stainless Steel Blade Lock Knife-Brown
  • Blister Pack
  • 7cm polished stainless steel blade
  • Varnished beech handle
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TOP 9
Image of Victorinox 0.8413.3 pocket knife
Victorinox Sentinel Swiss Army Pocket Knife, Large, Multi Tool, 4…
  • HIGHEST SWISS QUALITY: Victorinox is a Swiss brand with a worldwide reputation for…
  • PRODUCT DETAILS: Length 111 mm, Width 30 mm, Height 12.5 mm, Weight 71 g, Scale material…
  • FIT FOR ALL TASKS: Indispensable for outdoor tasks of all kinds and for a creative,…
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TOP 10
Image of Sealey PK37 pocket knife
Sealey Locking Pocket Knife - Twin-Blade - PK37
  • LIFETIME GUARANTEE FROM A REPUTABLE UK COMPANY – Founded in 1978, Sealey is…
  • EASY TO USE - Quick change mechanism for easy blade removal/fitting - no tools r…
  • DUAL BLADE - Features both utility and fine edge blades. Closed/Open Length: 110…
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