10 Best Knives For Self Defense (2024 Update)

When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

If you're looking for a tool that you can use to protect yourself in a potentially dangerous situation, you might want to consider knives that can be used for self-defense. With the right knife, you can feel more confident and prepared if you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to protect yourself.

When selecting a knife for self-defense, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. First, consider the size and weight of the knife. You want to choose a knife that you can handle comfortably and effectively, without feeling weighed down or struggling to grip it properly. Additionally, think about the blade quality, shape, and material. You want a blade that is strong, sharp, and capable of inflicting damage if necessary.

Some important questions you might have about knives for self-defense include: What types of knives are best suited for this purpose? Are there legal restrictions on carrying self-defense knives in your area? How should you handle and store your knife to ensure that it stays in good condition and is always within reach when you need it most? By taking the time to research these and other important considerations, you can find a self-defense knife that can help keep you safe and secure in any situation.

10 Best Knives For Self Defense

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for self-defense and military/tactical use with its sturdy, skeletonized design and included trainer.
2
The product is ideal for outdoor activities, self-defense, and everyday use due to its compact design and sharp blade.
3
It is an ideal knife for outdoor activities and self-defense purposes due to its sharp blade and lightweight design.
4
Ideal for everyday carry and utility tasks with its high-quality VG-10 steel blade and injection-molded polymer sheath.
5
Ideal for outdoor activities, everyday carry, and self-defense with its durable blade, partial serration, and quick opening system.
6
The product is ideal for concealed carry and outdoor activities, with its strong blade, molded sheath, and non-reflective finish.
7
The product is ideal for law enforcement and personal defense situations.
8
Ideal for outdoor activities, survival situations, and everyday carry due to its compact size and durable construction.
9
Ideal for outdoor, tactical, survival, and everyday carry with its serrated blade, aluminum handle, and folding design.
10
This product is an ideal folding pocket knife for everyday use, featuring durable materials and assisted opening for ease of use.
The product is ideal for self-defense and military/tactical use with its sturdy, skeletonized design and included trainer.
The product is ideal for outdoor activities, self-defense, and everyday use due to its compact design and sharp blade.
It is an ideal knife for outdoor activities and self-defense purposes due to its sharp blade and lightweight design.
Ideal for outdoor activities, everyday carry, and self-defense with its durable blade, partial serration, and quick opening system.
The product is ideal for law enforcement and personal defense situations.
Ideal for outdoor, tactical, survival, and everyday carry with its serrated blade, aluminum handle, and folding design.

1. Benchmade – Socp Dagger 176bk-Combo, With Black Sheath, Skelentonized Dagger And Trainer, Plain Edge, Coated Finish, Black Handle, Made In The Usa

The SOCP 176 is a high-quality, well-designed tactical knife made from 440C high-carbon stainless steel. This material offers a good balance of hardness and rust resistance, ensuring that the blade remains sharp and durable over time. Additionally, the blade takes a fine edge and is easy to re-sharpen, allowing for optimal performance in tactical situations. The single-piece dagger design of the SOCP 176 features a finger ring at the end, offering both dexterity and ease of use that allows users to handle other objects without putting down the knife. The knife's lightweight design and low-profile sheath make it easy to carry with you and ensure that it is always ready when you need it. The knife is also MOLLE-compatible, making it an ideal addition to any tactical gear set-up.

Pros

  • High-quality 440C high-carbon stainless steel blade offers a balance of hardness and rust resistance
  • Well-designed single-piece dagger with finger ring offers dexterity and ease of use
  • Lightweight design and low-profile sheath ensure knife is always ready and easy to carry
  • MOLLE-compatible for easy integration into tactical gear

2. Sports Service Fox Knives 479 Fox Karambit G10 Folding Knife, Black

The product has an overall length of 8.5 inches and weighs 4.6 ounces, making it lightweight and compact for easy carrying. Its handle is machined out of aircraft aluminum, ensuring durability and strength. Additionally, it features a lanyard hole, which is perfect for those who prefer to attach their knife to their gear for quick access. The knife's lightweight and compact design make it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and campers who require a reliable and easy-to-carry tool.

Pros

  • Lightweight and compact design for easy carrying.
  • Durable and strong handle made out of aircraft aluminum.
  • Lanyard hole for quick access.

3. Spyderco Matriarch 2 Lightweight Knife With Emerson Opener And 3.57" Vg-10 Steel Reverse S Blade – Spyderedge – C12sbk2w

The Matriarch 2 is a game-changing knife that offers superior quality and performance. Its SpyderEdge VG-10 stainless steel blade is scientifically designed to maximize cutting performance, making it a reliable option for a variety of cutting tasks. One of the most important features of the Matriarch 2 is its sturdy back lock mechanism, which ensures dependable and safe use. The knife also comes with a four-position clip and a Trademark Round Hole, providing unmatched carry versatility and high-speed deployment with either hand. The latest version of the Matriarch 2 now includes an Emerson Opener, a small integral hook on the spine of the blade, which enhances the knife's functionality and offers the ultimate in high-speed deployment. With its ergonomic design and easy-to-carry features, the Matriarch 2 is a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and anyone looking for a reliable and efficient cutting tool.

Pros

  • Scientifically designed blade for maximum cutting performance
  • Sturdy back lock mechanism ensures safe use
  • Four-position clip and Trademark Round Hole provide unmatched carry versatility
  • Emerson Opener enhances functionality and offers high-speed deployment

4. Spyderco Perrin Street Bowie Fixed Blade Utility Knife With 5.05" Vg-10 Steel Black Blade And Premium Injection-Molded Polymer Sheath – Everyday Carry – Plainedge – Fb04pbb

The Spyderco fixed blade knives are a reliable and high-performing option for those seeking exceptional cutting power. These knives are crafted to last a lifetime and feature highly evolved ergonomics that minimize fatigue while increasing cutting power. Designed by Fred Perrin, the Street Bowie knife is incredibly versatile and is ideal for utilitarian applications. Its design reflects Perrin's exceptional understanding of functional simplicity.

The Street Bowie features a superior blade made from VG-10 stainless steel and has a straight clip point that centers the tip on the knife. This design ensures that the blade is highly precise and effective for a variety of cutting tasks. The ergonomic design of the knife also ensures that it is comfortable to use, and minimizes hand fatigue during extended use.

For ease of carry, the Street Bowie comes with an injection-molded, snap-fit polymer sheath that has a G-Clip attachment. This attachment ensures that the knife is highly portable and can be carried with ease wherever you go.

Pros

  • Reliable and high-performing fixed blade knife
  • Crafted to last a lifetime with highly evolved ergonomics
  • Versatile and ideal for utilitarian applications
  • Superior VG-10 stainless steel blade with a straight clip point for precise cutting

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for those who prefer folding knives

5. Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Pocket Knife (1670tblkst); 3.4 Inch Cerakote Finish Blade, Sandvik 14c28n Steel, Partially Serrated Blade; Speedsafe Opening, Reversible Pocketclip

The SpeedSafe Assisted Opening feature of this knife allows for easy and safe one-handed opening using the thumbstud. The knife blade is held securely in place with a liner lock, which not only adds to its slim and stylish design but also ensures the user's safety. The knife also comes with Trac-Tec inserts that provide a comfortable and non-slip grip, making it easy to carry in all environments, including wet and marine conditions. The knife includes a reversible pocket clip that allows for carrying the knife tip up or tip down on the right side using pre-drilled holes. This knife is an excellent choice for everyday carry for anyone who needs a reliable knife, including hunters, fishers, outdoorsmen, hikers, bikers, campers, and carving enthusiasts.

Pros

  • Easy and safe one-handed opening
  • Slim and stylish design
  • Non-slip grip
  • Reversible pocket clip for easy carry

6. Kershaw Secret Agent (4007); Concealable Boot Knife With Strong Single Edge 4.4 Inch 8cr13mov Steel Blade; Arrives With Dual Carry Molded Sheath And Stealthy Non-Reflective Black Oxide Finish, 3 Oz

The 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade of this knife has been heat treated for optimal performance, hardness and durability. The blade is capable of slicing through a variety of materials, as seen in a torture test on Survival Bros where it cut through plastic, aluminum, kelp, rope, jellyfish and fiberglass with ease. Additionally, the blade features a black oxide coating that not only enhances its appearance, but also improves its resistance to corrosion.

The handle of this knife is made of reinforced synthetic polymer and is encased in textured rubber for a secure grip. The reinforcement provides increased strength, stiffness, and stability for added durability.

To further enhance the user’s experience, this knife comes with a high-performing sheath that can be clipped onto a belt or carried using a UWB. The sheath also features slots for leg carry straps, giving users the option to carry the knife in their preferred way.

Pros

  • The blade is made of 8Cr13MoV stainless steel that has been heat treated for optimal performance, hardness and durability.
  • The blade is capable of slicing through a variety of materials, including plastic, aluminum, kelp, rope, jellyfish and fiberglass.
  • The black oxide coating on the blade enhances its appearance and improves its resistance to corrosion.
  • The handle is made of reinforced synthetic polymer encased in textured rubber, providing a secure grip and added durability.
  • The high-performing sheath can be clipped onto a belt or carried using a UWB, and features slots for leg carry straps, giving users multiple carrying options.

7. Ka-Bar Tdi Law Enforcement Straight Edge Knife

The Law Enforcement Knife is a tactical and reliable tool designed by John Benner, the founder and owner of the Tactical Defense Institute. It comes with a black metal belt clip (1480Clip) for easy and convenient carrying. The blade is made of high-quality AUS 8A stainless steel, which is known for its strength and durability. The black powder-coated blade is available in a choice of either serrated or straight edge options. The textured Zytel handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, and the knife measures 5-5/8 inches overall.

The Law Enforcement Knife is an ideal tool for law enforcement officers as a 'last option' knife. It comes with a well-concealed sheath that can be worn on a pant belt. The blade is sharp and reliable, ensuring that it will perform well in high-pressure situations. The knife's overall design is sleek and professional, making it a great addition to any law enforcement officer's gear.

The Law Enforcement Knife's blade is made of high-quality AUS 8A stainless steel, which provides excellent strength and durability. The textured Zytel handle ensures a secure and comfortable grip, making the knife easy to handle in any situation. The black powder-coated blade is available in a choice of either serrated or straight edge options, providing versatility to meet the user's specific needs. The knife measures 5-5/8 inches overall and comes with a black metal belt clip (1480Clip) for easy and convenient carrying.

Pros

  • Comes with a black metal belt clip for easy and convenient carrying
  • Blade made of high-quality AUS 8A stainless steel for excellent strength and durability
  • Textured Zytel handle ensures a secure and comfortable grip
  • Sleek and professional design

8. Kershaw Dune Full Tang Neck Knife (4008x) Compact 3.8” 3cr13 Stainless Steel Fixed Blade With Black-Oxide Finish, Textured Injection Molded Handle, Secure Molded Sheath And Lanyard, 2.5 Oz.

The Dune is an excellent fixed blade knife made of high-quality 3Cr13 stainless steel that provides superior strength, stability, and excellent edge retention. The blade is 3.8 inches in length and features a full tang construction for added durability. It is also resistant to corrosion, making it perfect for outdoor activities. The knife comes with a molded sheath that snaps securely into place and allows for quick removal when needed. The sheath also has a lanyard for added security. The Dune has a lightweight injection molded nylon handle that provides increased strength, stiffness, and dimensional stability. It is easy to carry around as it can be worn around the neck, in a pack, bag, purse, pocket, glovebox, toolbelt, emergency kit, and more. This knife is a great gift for hunters, backpackers, anglers, wilderness first responders, and anyone who enjoys outdoor activities. Its lightweight construction and discreet profile make it easy to carry and use without adding unnecessary bulk.

Pros

  • The Dune has a full tang construction that provides added durability and strength
  • The knife is made of high-quality 3Cr13 stainless steel that is corrosion-resistant
  • The molded sheath has a lanyard for added security
  • The nylon handle provides increased strength, stiffness, and dimensional stability
  • Lightweight construction and discreet profile make it easy to carry and use without adding unnecessary bulk

9. Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Swa24s 7.1in S.s. Folding Knife With 3.1in Serrated Clip Point Blade And Aluminum Handle For Outdoor, Tactical, Survival And Edc

The knife measures 7.1 inches (18 cm) in overall length, with a blade length of 3.1 inches (7.9 cm) and a weight of 3.5 ounces. The blade is made of reliable 7Cr17Mov black oxide high carbon stainless steel and comes with a black aluminum handle. The knife is designed to be dependable, with quick and easy access via the convenient pocket clip, finger flipper, and ambidextrous thumb knobs, making it ideal for everyday carry. The liner lock ensures that the blade stays securely in place. The knife features jimping and serrations, ensuring that it's ready for any task. Additionally, the product is covered by a limited lifetime assurance, so customers can have peace of mind when making their purchase.

Pros

  • Reliable blade made of 7Cr17Mov black oxide high carbon stainless steel
  • Convenient pocket clip for quick and easy access
  • Liner lock ensures the blade stays securely in place
  • Features jimping and serrations for added versatility
  • Comes with a limited lifetime assurance

10. Zero Tolerance 0350ts; Folding Pocket Knife; 3.25 In. S30v Stainless Steel Blade With Tiger-Stripe Tungsten Dlc Coating, G-10 Handle, Speedsafe Assisted Opening And Quad-Mount Pocketclip; 6.2 Oz.

The S350V stainless steel blade of this folding pocket knife is highly versatile and durable, making it an ideal tool for a wide range of everyday tasks. The blade is not only corrosion-resistant but also wear-resistant, ensuring that it remains effective even after prolonged use. The tiger-striped Tungsten DLC blade coating adds to its aggressive look, while the textured black G-10 handles provide a comfortable grip. This folding knife is easy to carry, thanks to the quad-mount pocket clip that can be used for both left and right-handed individuals. It can be carried tip-up or tip-down, as per the user's preference. It is an excellent EDC knife and can be used for precision cutting, self-defense, survival, tactical use, or outdoor activities. This all-purpose knife can also be used for camping, fishing, hunting, and other utility purposes.

Pros

  • Highly versatile and durable S350V stainless steel blade
  • Corrosion and wear-resistant blade
  • Aggressive tiger-striped Tungsten DLC blade coating
  • Comfortable and textured black G-10 handles
  • Quad-mount pocket clip for easy carrying
  • Ideal for a wide range of everyday tasks

Best Knives For Self Defense FAQs

Can carrying a knife for self defense be legal in your area?

The legality of carrying a knife for self-defense varies from one jurisdiction to another. In some areas, it is legal to carry a knife as long as it is not concealed, while in others, carrying any type of knife is strictly prohibited. It is important to note that even in areas where carrying a knife is legal, there are certain restrictions in place. For example, the blade length may be limited or certain types of knives may be prohibited.

Before deciding to carry a knife for self-defense, it is important to research local laws and regulations to ensure that you are not breaking any laws. It is also important to consider the potential consequences of carrying a weapon, both legally and morally. In some cases, carrying a weapon may escalate a situation rather than diffusing it, and could result in legal or physical harm.

Ultimately, the decision to carry a knife for self-defense is a personal one that should be made with careful consideration of the risks and benefits involved. It is important to prioritize personal safety, but also to act responsibly and within the bounds of the law.

How do you maintain and care for a knife used for self defense?

Maintaining and caring for a knife used for self-defense is crucial to ensure its effectiveness when needed. First, it is important to clean the knife after every use with warm water and mild soap. Be sure to dry it completely to prevent rust and corrosion. Sharpening the blade regularly is also important to ensure it is ready for use. A dull blade can be dangerous as it requires more force to use and can slip, causing injury to the user. Proper storage is also essential. Keeping it in a sheath or holster will protect the blade and prevent accidental injury. It is also important to inspect the knife regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks or chips in the blade, and replace it if necessary. Lastly, it is crucial to handle the knife with care and respect, always assuming it is loaded and ready to use. By following these guidelines, you can ensure your knife is always ready for self-defense when needed.

How do you properly use a knife for self defense?

Using a knife for self-defense is a serious matter, and it is important to understand that it should only be used as a last resort. If you do decide to carry a knife for self-defense, it is crucial to know how to use it properly.

The first step is to choose the right type of knife. A fixed-blade knife is generally the best choice, as it is more durable and easier to grip than a folding knife. You should also choose a knife with a strong, sharp blade.

When using a knife for self-defense, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and the potential threat. If you feel threatened, you should hold the knife in a firm grip with the blade facing outward. This will allow you to quickly and effectively use the knife if necessary.

It is important to aim for vital areas of the attacker's body, such as the neck, chest, or stomach. However, it is crucial to remember that using a knife for self-defense can have serious legal consequences, and you should only use it if you feel that your life is in immediate danger.

In conclusion, using a knife for self-defense should only be a last resort and should only be used if necessary. It is important to choose the right type of knife, be aware of your surroundings, and aim for vital areas of the attacker's body.

How should you carry a knife for self defense?

When it comes to self defense, carrying a knife can be a useful tool. However, it is important to remember that carrying a knife for self defense should be a last resort and only used in situations where there is a threat of serious harm.

If you do decide to carry a knife for self defense, it is important to choose a knife that is legal to carry in your area and that you are comfortable using. The knife should be easily accessible, but not so visible that it attracts unwanted attention.

One common way to carry a knife for self defense is to use a sheath or holster that attaches to your belt or waistband. This allows for quick and easy access to the knife if needed. It is also important to practice using the knife in a safe and controlled environment to ensure that you are able to use it effectively in a high-stress situation.

In addition to carrying a knife, it is important to have a plan for self defense and to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Remember that the best way to avoid a dangerous situation is to stay out of it in the first place.

Is it better to have a serrated or straight-edge blade for self defense?

When it comes to self defense, the choice between a serrated or straight-edge blade is a matter of personal preference. Both types of blades have their own advantages and disadvantages. A straight-edge blade is typically easier to sharpen and maintains a sharp edge for longer periods. This makes it a reliable choice for self defense situations. On the other hand, a serrated blade is more effective at cutting through tough materials such as clothing, rope, or leather. This can be useful in a self defense situation where you may need to quickly cut through something to free yourself or your attacker. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It is important to remember that any knife used for self defense should be legal to carry and you should have proper training in its use to ensure your safety and the safety of others.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a knife for self defense compared to other weapons?

When it comes to self-defense, using a knife can have both advantages and disadvantages compared to other weapons.

Advantages of using a knife include its portability and ease of concealment, making it a convenient option for those who want to carry a weapon for protection. Knives can also be very effective in close combat situations, allowing for quick and precise strikes to vulnerable areas of an attacker's body. Additionally, knives are legal to carry in most places, whereas other weapons such as firearms may require permits or licenses.

However, there are also several disadvantages to using a knife for self-defense. One major concern is the risk of injury to oneself, as using a knife requires close proximity to an attacker and can easily result in accidental cuts or stabs. Additionally, knives can be difficult to use effectively without proper training, and a poorly executed strike may not deter an attacker. Finally, using a knife for self-defense may also result in legal consequences, as the use of deadly force is only justified in certain situations and may result in criminal charges if not used appropriately.

Overall, while a knife can be a viable option for self-defense, it is important to carefully consider the potential advantages and disadvantages before choosing a weapon for protection.

What are the best types of knives for self defense?

When it comes to self-defense, choosing the right tool is crucial. Knives are one of the most commonly used self-defense weapons, and there are several types to choose from. However, it's important to remember that using a knife for self-defense should always be a last resort.

The best types of knives for self-defense are those that are specifically designed for the purpose. These knives typically have a fixed blade that is between 3 and 5 inches long, and a handle that provides a secure grip. The blade should be made from a strong, durable material such as stainless steel, and should be sharp enough to penetrate clothing and skin.

One popular type of self-defense knife is the tactical knife. These knives feature a serrated edge, which can be used to cut through tough materials such as rope or clothing. They also often have a pointed tip for stabbing, and a sturdy handle for a secure grip.

Ultimately, the best type of knife for self-defense will depend on your personal preferences and needs. It's important to choose a knife that you feel comfortable using and that you have received proper training in how to use it effectively.

What are the differences between a folding knife and a fixed blade knife for self defense?

When it comes to choosing a knife for self-defense, there are two main types to consider: folding knives and fixed blade knives. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to understand the differences between them.

A folding knife is a knife that can be folded and stored easily in a pocket or bag. These knives are typically smaller and more discreet than fixed blade knives. They are also easier to carry and can be deployed quickly in an emergency situation. However, folding knives may not be as strong or durable as fixed blade knives, and may not be as effective in certain self-defense scenarios.

On the other hand, fixed blade knives are typically larger and more robust than folding knives. They are designed to be more durable and reliable, and are often used in more demanding situations. Fixed blade knives are also generally more effective for defensive purposes, as they can be used for a wider range of tasks and are less likely to break or malfunction.

Ultimately, the choice between a folding knife and a fixed blade knife for self-defense depends on personal preference and the specific situation at hand. It's important to choose a knife that you are comfortable carrying and using, and to practice with it regularly to ensure that you are prepared to use it effectively in an emergency.

What are the risks and consequences of using a knife for self defense?

Using a knife for self-defense can be a risky and dangerous decision. The consequences of using a knife in a self-defense situation can be severe, both legally and physically. Firstly, carrying a knife for self-defense is often illegal in many countries, and if caught, you could face criminal charges. Secondly, using a knife in a self-defense situation can escalate the level of violence and harm inflicted on both the attacker and yourself.

Moreover, using a knife requires a certain level of skill and training. Without proper training, the attacker may easily disarm you and use the knife against you, increasing the potential danger to your life. Additionally, a knife can cause severe injuries, and in some cases, even death. If you use a knife in self-defense, you may be held liable for using excessive force, and this could lead to criminal charges and legal consequences.

In conclusion, while carrying a knife for self-defense may seem like a good idea, it is important to remember that the risks and consequences of using it can be severe. It is advisable to seek alternative forms of self-defense that are legal and less likely to result in severe harm to yourself or others.

What training is necessary to effectively use a knife for self defense?

To effectively use a knife for self-defense, it is essential to have the proper training. This training should include learning the different types of knives and their specific uses, as well as how to properly grip and hold the knife for maximum effectiveness. It is also important to learn the proper techniques for striking and defending with the knife, as well as the legal and ethical considerations of using a knife in self-defense situations.

One of the most important aspects of knife self-defense training is developing situational awareness and the ability to assess potential threats. This can involve learning how to identify potentially dangerous situations and individuals, as well as how to avoid or deescalate conflicts when possible.

Overall, effective knife self-defense training should be comprehensive and cover a range of skills and techniques. It is important to seek out qualified instructors and to practice regularly in order to develop proficiency with the knife and increase your chances of successfully defending yourself in a dangerous situation.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Sharing is caring!