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#6 on this list
No. 8 Carbon
Opinel
French, 130 years old, and still the finest field-sharpening carbon steel per dollar.
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#7 on this list
XM-18 3.5
Hinderer
Overbuilt tri-way pivot and a lockbar stabilizer. Built like a hand tool, not a folder.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | No. 8 Carbon | XM-18 3.5 |
|---|---|---|
| Blade Material | Carbon Steel | — |
| Handle Material | Beechwood | — |
| Blade Length | 3.25 inches | 3.5 inches |
| Closed Length | 4.3 inches | — |
| Weight | 1.6 ounces | — |
| Lock Type | Virobloc Safety Ring | Frame Lock |
| Maker | — | Hinderer |
| Model | — | XM-18 3.5 |
| Blade Steel | — | Varies (premium steels) |
| Pivot System | — | Tri-Way |
| Country of Origin | — | USA |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
No. 8 Carbon
- Exceptional cutting performance with a razor-sharp edge
- Incredibly easy to field sharpen to a fine edge
- Lightweight and highly pocketable design
- Comfortable and ergonomic beechwood handle
- Secure and reliable Virobloc locking mechanism
- Outstanding value for money
- Carbon steel requires careful maintenance to prevent rust
- Wooden handle can swell if exposed to excessive moisture
- Not designed for one-handed opening or heavy-duty tasks
XM-18 3.5
- Extremely durable and robust construction
- Versatile Tri-Way pivot system for customizable action
- Excellent ergonomics for secure grip in all conditions
- Premium blade steels with strong edge retention
- Reliable and strong frame lock mechanism
- Heavier than many comparable pocket knives
- Higher price point compared to mass-produced folders
- Overbuilt aesthetic may not appeal to all users
- Can feel bulky in tighter pockets
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