Pocket knives remain an essential everyday carry tool, valued for their versatility, portability, and practicality. In 2025, advancements in steel quality, handle ergonomics, and opening mechanisms have made it possible to find reliable, well‑built models for under $100. This guide examines some of the best options available, focusing on construction, performance, and design choices that make them stand out. Each selection represents strong value without compromising on the fundamentals of durability and functionality.
1. CJRB Pyrite‑Light
The CJRB Pyrite‑Light delivers an impressive combination of lightweight construction and dependable performance. Its proprietary spray‑formed steel blade provides cutting efficiency suitable for everyday use, and the button‑lock system ensures secure blade engagement. The molded FRN handle reduces overall weight, making it comfortable to carry throughout the day.
In use, the Pyrite‑Light’s blade geometry excels at general cutting tasks, from opening packages to light outdoor work. The button‑lock operation is smooth, requiring minimal effort to deploy or close the blade. While it may not be designed for heavy‑duty cutting, the edge retention and ease of maintenance keep it functional for daily carry.
Fit and finish on this model are consistent, with clean machining and no excess play in the pivot. The combination of value, performance, and compact size has made it a consistent recommendation for those looking for an affordable, capable folding knife.
Key Features
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Proprietary spray‑formed steel blade (~3.1″)
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Button‑lock mechanism
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Lightweight FRN handle
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Under $100
Pros
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Smooth, reliable action
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Very lightweight
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Good everyday utility
Cons
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Not designed for heavy‑duty use
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Button‑lock may take adjustment for new users
2. CIVIVI Elementum
The CIVIVI Elementum is known for delivering premium‑feeling action and materials in a budget‑friendly package. Its D2 steel blade offers solid edge retention, while the G‑10 handle scales provide grip without adding unnecessary weight. The liner lock and ball‑bearing pivot give the knife a smooth, consistent opening.
Its drop‑point blade profile makes it suitable for a wide range of cutting jobs, from slicing through rope to detailed tasks. The size is well‑balanced for portability without feeling too small in the hand. While D2 steel requires occasional care to avoid corrosion, it rewards the user with reliable performance.
Overall construction is tight, with good alignment and minimal blade play. The Elementum’s ability to compete with more expensive knives in terms of fit and finish makes it a strong choice for anyone seeking a dependable EDC without overspending.
Key Features
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D2 steel blade (~2.96″)
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Liner lock with ball‑bearing pivot
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G‑10 handle scales
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Under $100
Pros
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Premium feel for the price
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Smooth, consistent deployment
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Well‑balanced size and weight
Cons
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Requires maintenance to prevent corrosion
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Not intended for heavy prying tasks
3. Kershaw Blur Black
The Kershaw Blur Black is designed for those who want quick, reliable blade deployment and a secure grip. Featuring a Sandvik 14C28N steel blade with a corrosion‑resistant coating, it combines cutting performance with durability. The SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism ensures fast, one‑handed operation.
Its recurved blade excels at slicing and draw cuts, while the full‑sized handle with textured inserts offers a stable hold, even in wet conditions. This model is suited for outdoor, tactical, and general everyday carry tasks. The assisted mechanism adds speed but does require more moving parts, which may not appeal to those who prefer purely manual folders.
The build quality is solid, with precise assembly and a sturdy pocket clip for secure carry. While slightly heavier than some other models in this list, the weight contributes to a balanced feel during use.
Key Features
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Sandvik 14C28N steel blade (~3.4″)
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SpeedSafe assisted opening
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Textured aluminum handle
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Under $100
Pros
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Fast deployment
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Strong cutting performance
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Secure grip
Cons
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Heavier than smaller EDC knives
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Assisted opening may not suit all preferences
4. Gerber LST Ultra
The Gerber LST Ultra stands out for its lightweight, minimalist design. Its 420HC stainless steel blade offers reliable corrosion resistance and easy sharpening. The slip‑joint mechanism and glass‑filled nylon handle keep weight to a minimum.
This knife is not intended for heavy‑duty applications but performs well in everyday cutting tasks. Its simple design makes it easy to clean and maintain, with no complex mechanisms to service. For users who prioritize portability, the LST Ultra’s size and weight are major advantages.
Despite its basic construction, the knife’s ergonomics are comfortable, and the blade geometry is functional for common tasks. It’s a strong option for those who value simplicity and reliability over extra features.
Key Features
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420HC stainless steel blade (~2.8″)
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Slip‑joint mechanism
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Glass‑filled nylon handle
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Lightweight design
Pros
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Extremely light and easy to carry
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Corrosion‑resistant blade
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Simple maintenance
Cons
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No locking mechanism
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Limited for demanding cutting jobs
5. CRKT Pilar
The CRKT Pilar is a compact, sturdy folder designed for discreet everyday carry. Its frame‑lock construction ensures secure blade lock‑up, and the stainless steel handle provides durability. The short blade length makes it easy to carry in restrictive environments.
The Pilar excels in close‑quarters cutting and small‑scale utility tasks. Its compact size does limit leverage for larger jobs, but it makes up for this with precision and control. The blade steel, while not top‑tier, holds an edge reasonably well for most EDC uses.
Construction quality is consistently good, with secure lock engagement and minimal blade movement. The Pilar’s understated design appeals to those who prefer functionality over showy styling.
Key Features
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Stainless steel blade (~2.3″)
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Frame‑lock mechanism
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Compact handle design
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Under $100
Pros
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Solid build for its size
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Discreet and portable
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Secure lock‑up
Cons
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Small blade limits versatility
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Basic steel compared to premium options
6. Ruike P801
The Ruike P801 offers a premium feel at a budget price. Its Sandvik 14C28N steel blade provides a good balance of edge retention and corrosion resistance. The stainless steel frame‑lock handle adds durability and a sleek, modern appearance.
Opening is smooth thanks to a ball‑bearing pivot, and both flipper and thumb‑stud deployment options are available. The drop‑point blade profile is versatile, suitable for a variety of cutting tasks. Ergonomics are solid, with a handle shape that accommodates extended use.
This model’s combination of materials and build quality makes it competitive with knives costing much more. For users seeking a dependable EDC folder under $100, the P801 is a strong contender.
Key Features
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Sandvik 14C28N steel blade (~3.4″)
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Frame‑lock mechanism
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Dual deployment options
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Stainless steel handle
Pros
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Excellent value for the price
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Smooth, versatile deployment
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Durable materials
Cons
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Slightly heavier than G‑10 handled knives
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Minimal handle texturing
7. Ontario Rat II
The Ontario Rat II is a long‑time budget favorite, valued for its robust construction and comfortable ergonomics. Featuring an AUS‑8 stainless steel blade and nylon handle scales, it delivers consistent cutting performance at a low cost.
Its full‑flat‑ground blade offers excellent slicing capability, and the liner lock mechanism keeps the blade securely in place during use. Deployment via thumb stud is simple and reliable, with a pivot that can be tuned for personal preference.
The Rat II’s size makes it ideal for pocket carry without sacrificing too much cutting length. Its straightforward, proven design has kept it popular among knife users who want durability and value in one package.
Key Features
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AUS‑8 stainless steel blade (~3″)
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Liner lock mechanism
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Nylon handle scales
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Under $100
Pros
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Comfortable ergonomics
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Reliable performance
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Proven, durable design
Cons
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Steel is softer than premium options
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Handle texture is modest
8. Spyderco Tenacious
The Spyderco Tenacious brings the brand’s recognizable design to the budget market. It features an 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade with a leaf‑shaped profile, offering a balance of slicing and piercing capabilities. The G‑10 handle scales provide solid grip without excess weight.
The large opening hole allows for ambidextrous, one‑handed deployment. The liner lock mechanism is secure, and the ergonomics are designed for comfort in a variety of grips. While the blade steel is not top‑tier, it sharpens easily and is well‑suited to everyday use.
The Tenacious offers the look and feel of higher‑end Spyderco models at a fraction of the cost. Its build quality and recognizable design make it a go‑to choice for users seeking brand‑name reliability under $100.
Key Features
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8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade (~3.39″)
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Liner lock mechanism
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G‑10 handle scales
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Ambidextrous opening hole
Pros
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Comfortable and versatile design
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Easy to sharpen
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Brand reliability at budget pricing
Cons
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Blade steel not as hard as premium options
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Larger profile than some may prefer
Conclusion
These eight models demonstrate that quality pocket knives do not have to exceed $100 to deliver reliable performance. From the ultra‑light Gerber LST Ultra to the full‑featured Kershaw Blur Black, the Best Pocket Knives Under $100 in 2025 offer options for different needs, preferences, and carry styles. Whether you prioritize lightweight portability, robust build quality, or smooth deployment, there’s a model in this list that balances value with everyday functionality.
