This post was originally published in 2017 and updated in 2024 to include newer models and more knives.
We all know that folding knives make the best knives for EDC — they’re often lightweight, easily concealable, versatile and can be folded up into the pocket.
However, a small but growing number of people are ditching folders for fixed blades as their EDC knives. Why? A fixed blade can be more reliable, stronger, and a bevy of new designs means it can be just as compact and lightweight as a pocket knife.
If you’re thinking about starting to carry a fixed blade as an EDC in lieu of a folder, here are 10 of the best EDC fixed blade knives to start with.
CRKT Razel
Let’s kick things off with a knife that looks like a very functional fixed blade and that’s exactly what it is. The razel blade profile from the late Jon Graham has always been one focused on versatility. For example, the straight edge is great at slicing and opening up packages while the front of the blade excels at scraping.
The CRKT Razel is a great all-around EDC knife because it is unassuming, comfortable to use, and easy to carry with a pocket carry sheath.
When you add in the D2 steel, Micarta handle, and overall length of 6.75 inches, you get a
Cold Steel Urban Edge
It might seem crazy to put a push dagger on this list of best EDC fixed blades because it’s really only designed for one thing, but you’d be surprised at just how versatile the knife actually is.
This version of the Cold Steel Urban Edge has a 2.5-inch blade with one edge plain and the other serrated. This gives it an extra level of functionality when wielding around the house. Need to open a box? Use the plain edge. Need to cut some rope? Use the serrated edge.
Since it weighs under 2 ounces, it can hang lightly around the neck until you need it.
CRKT Hunt’N Fisch
What makes a good EDC fixed blade is a knife that’s small, slim, and lightweight. That perfectly describes the CRKT Hunt’N Fisch.
Designed originally as a hunting and fishing knife, the Hunt’N Fisch was created by Larry Fischer. It has a 3-inch blade and a G-10 handle. It weighs 4 ounces but is remains small, easy to carry, and capable of tackling all types of outdoor and indoor tasks.
It’s a visually striking knife that gets the job done without being too much money.
SOG Snarl
A good fixed blade EDC knife doesn’t necessarily have to be larger with a complete handle. Instead, it can be small and stout like the Jason Brous-designed SOG Snarl.
This little folder made from a large chunk of stainless steel has a 2.3-inch sheepsfoot blade. It steel handle has two finger holes in it which allows you to get a solid grip up closer to the blade without needing a pronounced handle.
It comes with a hard-molded nylon sheath.
Spyderco ARK
When a fixed blade has a name like the “Always Ready Knife,” you know it will be great for everyday carry.
The Spyderco ARK, which stands for Always Ready Knife, is a neck knife with a 2.96-inch upswept blade. It uses H2 steel, an alloy that’s impervious to rust.
The smaller handle uses black FRN scales that provide a solid grip. Because it has a unique and no-nonsense neck sheath, this knife will always be close by when you need it.
Condor Terrasaur
Not all EDC fixed blades have to be tiny. The Condor Terrasaur is the perfect example of a larger fixed blade that is still easy to carry.
The blade on the Terrasaur has a larger 4.25-inch drop-point blade made from 1095 carbon steel. It has a polypropylene handle that’s comfortable and strong for those times you need to whack away at some branches. An exposed tang also gives you the option for some damage-free hammering.
Sure, it weighs 7.1 ounces and is pretty long at 8.8 inches, but it attaches to your belt with a sheath, so it’s fairly straightforward and easy to carry.
CRKT Minimalist
One of the themes of fixed blades perfect for everyday carry is minimalism. With that term right in the name, the CRKT Minimalism is a no-brainer for EDC. The Minimalist is a small and lightweight fixed blade that cuts down on the bulk of the knife without sacrificing functionality and versatility.
The 2.125-inch blade comes in three different styles: wharncliffe, blackout drop point, and more. The magic is in the handle that’s ergonomically designed to feel big in the hand without taking up much space. The Minimalist is frequently on these lists and now you know why.
In the past few years, CRKT and Alan Folts have made a ton of variations on the knife, each with its own advantages.
More recently, the larger Minimalist Katana with a 3.56-inch blade, making it even more versatile.
Cold Steel Mini Leatherneck
The Mini Leatherneck is a real surprise hit. Cold Steel originally made the Leatherneck as its version of the KA-BAR. It has a 6.75-inch clip point blade with a polymer handle that looks stacked.
However, when Cold Steel made a mini version, it completely transformed the look and purpose of the knife. Instead of a fighting/utility knife, the Mini Leatherneck became a unique and functional EDC fixed blade.
The Mini Leatherneck has a 3.5-inch spear-point blade with a Kray-Ex handle. It has a Secure-Ex sheath you can wear around your neck, on your belt, or attached to your boot.
KA-BAR TDI Original
The KA-BAR TDI Original is another design that thinks outside the box.
Initially designed as a last-ditch self-defense tool for law enforcement, the TDI has morphed into something more. Thanks to its unique handle shape that’s meant to mimic the feel of a pistol, the knife is easy to pull out of the sheath and put back in after use.
The blade is 2.31 inches long but can be used for all types of tasks.
Spyderco Bow River
Finally, there’s the Bow River from Spyderco. This knife is definitely the largest on the list with a blade of 4.36 inches.
Despite its larger size, this highly refined fixed blade has a slim design with a slightly upswept blade and layered G-10 handle. With a very reasonable price of $49 (a real steel for Spyderco knives), this fixed blade makes an excellent EDC.
July 11, 2017 at 1:51 pm
Well OK, I enjoyed the article on fixed blades for EDC . I even own the Mora Companian and Benchmade Hidden Canyon as well as an ESSE Izula. And while I only own less than a dozen folders, I wouldn’t characterize Cold Steel as being best known for its folders. I don’t know how many folders they make, but it is a substantial amount. However, when I hear Cold Steel mentioned, I usually think fixed blades, tomahawks, axes and a shovel, lol since I have all of the above but no folders from them. Now I am compelled to purchase a folder ( or two ) from Cold Steel. TY!
July 12, 2017 at 8:27 am
That’s a good point. Cold Steel is probably equally known for both, but they’ve put a lot of emphasis on their hardworking folders over the past few years and some of their most innovative stuff has been folders, like the new Golden Eye. I recommend getting a folder or two with the TriAd lock just to see what it’s all about.
July 12, 2017 at 8:28 am
Thanks for reading.
November 18, 2017 at 5:08 am
Just like to suggest the SCHF14 and the out of production Kershaw Antelope Hunter would be good choices. For those who like smooth and elegant knives, but want something inexpensive, the Schrade SCHF55 is very nice looking and feels like a high quality tool, is made of 1095 carbon steel and although short, it fits my large hands nicely. The reason I first mentioned the other two knives is because they are high carbon stainless which is more suitable for moist and humid environments. While I do own a CRKT Minimalist, if a knife is really small, I find the handle too short and so for me, I am more comfortable with a 4″ handle. I can carry a compact knife, but really small doesn’t work. So tiny neck knives are out for me.
April 4, 2023 at 4:38 pm
I have the schf14 and love it. It fits in my hand perfect and is not expensive.
January 28, 2018 at 7:41 am
what about schrade schf55?
November 23, 2020 at 11:15 pm
This article should be retitled “10 Best Small to Medium Size Fixed Blade EDC Knives”. It really needs to be expanded, instead of being restricted to 10.
No mention of the Bradford Guardian 3?
No mention of the Morakniv Bushcraft Black/Orange, Kansbol , Garberg, or Eldris?
No mention of the Cold Steel Pendleton Hunter or SRK?
No mention of the Kabar BK16?
I prefer the ESEE Izula II instead of the original Izula. It has a larger handle and comes with micarta handle scales.
April 4, 2023 at 12:19 pm
Bradford guardian 3 in magnacut and the Dawson Serrenghetti in magnacut….2 of the best small fix blade edcs around
April 4, 2023 at 12:16 pm
Ok. I guess I’m just different. I have carried a Mission MPU for years now. It is light, sharp and easily converted by removing the scales and sheath mount. It stays sharp and fits my hand. It is easily concealed and may be the best knife I own. I have 50+.