There are so many lists of the best pocket knives out there. So, so many. Many of them are well researched and make excellent arguments for or against certain models, claiming that this or that model is the best pocket knife of all time. But with so many models to choose from, and so many different unforeseeable uses for pocket knives, how can you pick just one, or even only a few?

Realistically, you can’t, which is why so many lists are qualified by “year,” “season,” “brand,” “line,” or “purpose.” That is to say, you’ll see a list of the best “EDC pocket knives” or the “top ten Spyderco knives.” People are getting smart to the fact that there isn’t just one out there.

So, with all of that said, we won’t try to sell you on one, single best pocket knife. We think you’ll like these, though.

CRKT Pilar

The CRKT is both beautiful and functional. It was designed by Jesper Voxnaes for CRKT and takes its name from Ernest Hemingway’s sailboat, the Pilar.

The CRKT Pilar has a 2.4 inch blade of 8Cr13MoV steel with an overall length of 5.94 inches and a closed length of 3..53 inches. It weighs 4.2 ounces - just a bit heavy, but the handle is made from solid stainless steel, which accounts for it. It also makes the knife very tough.

Deployment is achieved via the knife’s thumb slot, and the lockup is very solid, thanks to the knife’s durable framelock mechanism. As for the blade, the Pilar sports a handsome and surprisingly functional Wharncliffe or Sheepsfoot style blade with a flat grind; excellent for slicing, and with better than average tip integrity.

It’s also highly ergonomic and can be carried freely in a pocket, or by aid of its reversible pocket clip, which allows for both tip up and tip down carry. For those who like the design but need a larger knife, check out the CRKT Pilar II.

Kershaw Leek

The Kershaw Leek might be unassuming, but by no means should you count it out. It’s available in a number of different versions and with a full-straight and partially-serrated blade. Nonetheless, the groundwork that has made the Leek so popular remains the same.

Designed by knife guru Ken Onion for Kershaw, the Leek features a 3 inch drop point blade that is almost reminiscent of a modified Sheepsfoot profile or a modified needlepoint. It is both super-sharp and highly attenuated for excellent piercing power.

It has a hollow grind for great slicing ability and the Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel blade not only holds an edge well but is easy to resharpen. The knife can be opened and closed easily with one hand, thanks to Kershaw’s SpeedSafe Assisted opening via a convenient clipper. The locking system is a sturdy frame lock mechanism, which engages securely, but something unique about this knife is that a proprietary “Tip Lock” system also keeps the blade closed and prevents unintentional deployment.

Spyderco Delica 4

The Spyderco Delica 4 is another excellent example of the ideal everyday carry (EDC) knife which is available in a number of different colors and configurations. It’s 2.75 inch blade, which sports the classic calling cards of Spyderco, the hump-backed design and the Spyderhole, is available in a full straight edge as well either fully or partially serrated. It is also available with a VG-10 blade; a steel that is marvellously tough and affords great edge retention.

Weight depends on the scale materials; the Delica 4 can be purchased with a stainless steel handle but it is also very popular in its FRN (fiberglass reinforced nylon) handle material, for its lightweight and extremely durable nature.

These folding knives afford easy one handed opening thanks to their ergonomic Spydie holes (no thumb stud needed!) and deliver a secure, confidence-engendering lockup thanks to their lock back mechanism. Great for everything from opening packages to splitting tinder, the Spyderco Delica is a frequent flyer on “best pocket knife” lists everywhere.

OKC RAT II

The OKC RAT II is what can only be called an excellent knife. It’s also the only knife on this list with a liner lock mechanism, but that liner lock is incredibly strong, all things considered, and there’s no play in it at all.

Like some of the other knives on this list, there are a few different models available. It’s available in a number of different colors and in a model that has a D2 tool steel blade, but the basic version with an AUS-8 blade and nylon scales with ultra-grippy texture is a top-performer no matter how you slice it.

With a full flat grind and a blade length of an even 3 inches, it’s a top performer with fluid action, a solid lockup, and some of the best ergonomics in its price class. If the RAR II is too small for you, check out the RAT I which is all but identical in profile and features, but is a bit larger.

Buck 110

There are some who would vehemently disagree with our state that the Buck 110 Folding Hunter is deserving of the title of “best pocket knife,” but then again, there are probably some old timers who would put it at the top of the list.

The classic version is both beautiful and heavy. It comes in at over 7 ounches, largely attributable to its generous ebony scales and brass bolsters. The 3 and ¾ inch clip point blade is made from Buck’s famous 420HC steel, which is tough, affordable, corrosion resistant, and expertly hardened for great edge retention.

It takes two hands to open and close, lacks a pocket clip, and it’s a bit heavy, but it affords a solid lockup thanks to its durable lockback mechanism. It might not be the most modern pocket knife on this list or have flashy aluminum handle scales or an integral bottle opener, but it is a classic among classics, and one of the best selling pocket knives of all time.

On any given day any of these knives might be considered the best pocket knife in earnest. If you want to learn more about any of these models or variants, be sure to get in touch with us at WhiteMountainKnives@gmail.com. We’d be glad to help you out.