Times are a bit tougher these days, as your dollar doesn’t seem to go as far as it used to. However, when it comes to folding knives, you do have some options that perfectly balance cost versus quality. At under $50, the selections below won’t break the bank and will still provide everything you need in a trusty folding knife.
9 Folding EDC Knives for Under $50
01 – Gerber Gear LST Ultra Knife
When you need an all-around, do-it-all knife and don’t want to break the bank, then turn to the LST by Gerber Gear. This made-in-the-USA knife offers the trifecta of toughness, smooth operation, and lightweight carry.
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The LST offers a convenient ambidextrous body, a drop-point blade, glass-filled nylon handle, and a secure locking system. Its pocket clip allows discreet carry and quick access, while its integrated lanyard hole is cordage-ready. Streamlined, highly reliable, and task-driven, the LST doesn’t shy away from getting the job done.
Specifications
- 420 HC Stainless steel
- Overall length: 6.40 inches
- Ambidextrous design
- Glass-filled nylon handle
- Integrated lanyard hole
MSRP: $39.99
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02 – Gerber Gear Sharkbelly Knife
The Sharkbelly knife doesn’t just take the name of the ocean’s top predator; it also has a sharp bite of its own. This contoured folder offers a sheepsfoot blade, Sharkskin Grip outer shell, and a scratch-resistant pocket clip. At just over three inches, the Sharkbelly’s blade is ideal for all-purpose tasks at home or in-the-field.
Its diverse amenities include a glass-filled nylon handle, an ambidextrous thumb hole, an integrated lanyard hole, and a secure lockback feature. When you’re fishing for a blade that exhibits all you need at a low price point, the Sharkbelly is the ultimate catch.
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Specifications
- 420 HC Steel
- Overall length: 7.75 inches
- Glass-filled nylon handle
- Ambidextrous thumb hole design
- Scratch-resistant pocket clip
MSRP: $47.00
03 – Gerber Gear US1 Knife
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Going lightweight without skimping on durability, the US1 is an American-made blade with a slick, slender footprint. This knife features a discreet nail nick for flawless deployment of its drop-point blade. Its handle offers sure-grip overmold with a prominent finger groove for ultimate knife control.
The US1’s dependable lockback design keeps the knife user safe from unexpected blade closures. Ideal for home, outdoor, or urban use, the US1 knife perfectly balances dependability with its economical price tag.
Specifications
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- 420 HC Steel
- Overall length: 6.10 inches
- Ultra-thin and lightweight
- Rubber overmold handle
- Integrated lanyard hole
MSRP: $32.99
04 – 5.11 Icarus DP Mini Knife
The Icarus DP Mini is there when you need it, simple enough! This all-purpose knife offers numerous features throughout its lean and lightweight frame. Enjoy a nearly three-inch cutting blade, a fiberglass-reinforced nylon handle, a line lock mechanism, and a two-position, deep-carry pocket clip.
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Additionally, this knife offers a sure-grip surface for all-weather use. MOLLE compatibility and an integrated lanyard hole allow multiple carry and attachment options. This may very well become your favorite, go-to blade.
Specifications
- 8Cr13MoV Steel
- Overall length: 7.00 inches
- MOLLE compatible
- Fiberglass-reinforced nylon body
- Deep carry pocket clip
MSRP: $32.00
05 – 5.11 Braddock DP Full Knife
Just making it at the fifty-dollar mark, the Braddock DP Full Knife offers big amenities for a not-so-big price tag. At over eight inches open, this “pocket” knife allows you to tackle bigger jobs than most EDC knives allow. Its hearty D2 steel won’t give under pressure and holds its edge very well.
The Braddock’s G10 handle with segmented notches ensures no-slip cutting, even under harsh outdoor conditions. A reversible deep-carry clip, a long 3.50-inch cutting surface, and a liner lock for safety only add to the Braddock’s impressive specs.
Specifications
- D2 Steel
- Overall length: 8.125 inches
- G10 Handle with 2-point clip
- Liner lock mechanism
- Integrated lanyard hole
MSRP: $50.00
06 – Kershaw Shuffle DIY
This low-priced tool takes the form of both a knife and a multitool. The stout, yet sturdy blade quickly deploys with a convenient thumb stud and holds an edge through repeated hardcore use. The Shuffle DIY also features a bit driver, two screwdriver bits, a keychain ring, and a bottlecap lifter, all in one compact unit.
Its sturdy glass-filled nylon handle is equipped with both texture and finger grooves for a no-slip grip when you’re putting the Shuffle into action. One hand opening and a trusty belt clip round out this unique knife’s offerings.
Specifications
- Features multiple integrated tools
- 8Cr13MoV Steel
- Manual opening with one-hand action
- Overall length: 5.75 inches
- Weight: 3.5 ounces
MSRP: $39.99
07 – Kershaw OSO Sweet Knife
As its name implies, this knife is truly OSO Sweet. From its quality 8Cr13MoV steel blade with satin finish, to its scale-like sure-grip handle, quick opening, and secure liner lock, this economical folder has it all.
Its drop-point blade provides functionality and ultimate durability in the field. Add to this a reversible pocket clip for just about anywhere carry, and you’re good to go every day. The OSO Sweet’s amenities sit in nearly every category for the perfect everyday carry blade.
Specifications
- 8Cr13MoV steel
- Glass-filled nylon handle
- “Scale” handle pattern for enhanced grip
- Overall length: 7.10 inches
- Reversible, multi-position pocket clip
MSRP: $43.99
08 – Kershaw Lightyear Knife
Sporting a spear point, ergonomic handle, and lightning-fast blade deployment, the Lightyear will take no time to become your daily go-to blade. Use this daily carry knife around the home or take it on the road for unexpected needs.
It stores easily within a pocket with its deep-carry clip, while its subtle integrated flipper puts the blade into action in an instant. When it comes to price versus quality, the Lightyear reaches new heights.
Specifications
- 4Cr14 steel
- Quick blade deployment
- Slim and streamlined profile
- Glass-filled nylon handle
- Deep-carry pocket clip for ultimate discretion
MSRP: $33.99
09 – Kershaw Shoreline Knife
Accomplishing big jobs with an easy-to-carry footprint, the Shoreline mixes high efficiency and no-nonsense performance. The Shoreline offers a contoured, textured handle, easy sharpening with its 8Cr13MoV steel blade, and superb discretion with a reversible, deep-carry pocket clip.
The knife’s blade features a stonewash finish and has black oxide handle screws for overall protection from harsh elements. From everyday tasks to emergency use, or as a great secondary blade, the Stonewash handles all your blade-carrying needs.
Specifications
- 8Cr13MoV steel
- Stonewashed finish
- Overall length: 7.10 inches
- Reversible, deep-carry pocket clip
- Linner lock mechanism
MSRP: $43.99
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