Top 10 · Compare
Compare Best Pocket Knives head to head
Pick any two picks from this list and see specs, current price, pros, cons and reader ratings side by side.
Back to the full Top 10
#1 on this list
Bugout 535-3 (MagnaCut)
Benchmade
1.85 ounces, an Axis lock you can work one-handed, and the best all-round modern steel.
- Price
- Check current price
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
#2 on this list
Small Sebenza 31
Chris Reeve Knives
The tolerance standard the whole industry measures against. Idaho-built and rebuildable forever.
- Price
- Check current price
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
Specs side by side
| Spec | Bugout 535-3 (MagnaCut) | Small Sebenza 31 |
|---|---|---|
| Blade Steel | CPM MagnaCut | CPM S45VN (often) |
| Lock Mechanism | Axis Lock | — |
| Blade Length | 3.24 inches | — |
| Weight | 1.85 ounces | — |
| Handle Material | Carbon Fiber | 6AL4V Titanium |
| Deployment | Thumb Stud | — |
| Maker | — | Chris Reeve Knives |
| Model | — | Small Sebenza 31 |
| Lock Type | — | Frame Lock (Integral Lock) |
| Origin | — | Boise, Idaho, USA |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Bugout 535-3 (MagnaCut)
- Exceptional weight-to-performance ratio
- Outstanding corrosion resistance and edge retention from MagnaCut steel
- Smooth, ambidextrous, and secure Axis lock
- Premium carbon fiber handles with refined aesthetics
- Deep-carry pocket clip for discreet carry
- Benchmade's robust warranty and support
- Higher price point compared to standard Bugout models
- Carbon fiber, while strong, can feel less grippy than G-10 when wet
- Blade stock is relatively thin, not designed for heavy prying tasks
Small Sebenza 31
- Unparalleled precision engineering and build quality
- Exceptional durability and long-term reliability
- Premium materials throughout, including blade steel and handle
- Designed for user maintenance and rebuildable for generations
- Excellent ergonomics for its compact size, solid in hand
- High price point is a significant barrier for many
- Titanium handle can be slick when wet or gloved
- Action is deliberate, not 'flicky,' which some users dislike
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.