The search for the best knife under $250 can often feel overwhelming, with numerous options available across various categories and brands. However, in 2024, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 knives available on Amazon that not only offer quality craftsmanship but also exceptional performance, making them some of the best knives under $250. In this article, we will explore detailed reviews of each knife along with a comprehensive buying guide to assist you in making an informed decision.
| # | Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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Chef’sChoice 250 Hybrid Knife Sharpeners uses Diamond Abrasives and Combines Electric and Manual... | $37.55 | Buy on Amazon | |
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GEDORE OX 375-2500 Drawing knife, 250-mm / 10-Inch Blade Length, blue | $42.87 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 3 |
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DIYSELF 250 Pcs Exacto Knife, Craft Knife, Hobby Knife, Precision Knife, Exacto Knife for Crafts,... | $11.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 4 |
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Perfect Stix - PS Wooden Knife 250CT Green Knive 158-250ct Disposable Wooden Knives (Pack of 250) | $12.32 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 5 |
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Chef'sChoice Hybrid Knife Diamond Abrasives, Combines Electric and Manual Sharpening for 20 Degree... | $53.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 6 |
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Stock Your Home Individually Wrapped Knives, 250 Count Heavyweight Plastic Knives, Plasticware... | $18.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 7 |
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MINOVA 250W AC Rotatable Electric Hot Knife Foam Cutter Styrofoam Cutting Tool Kit Air Cooled Hot... | $95.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 8 |
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Daxwell Plastic Cutlery Kits, Medium Weight Polypropylene (PP), with Fork, Knife, Teaspoon, Salt,... | $24.24 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 9 |
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Buck Knives 250 Saunter Slip-Joint Folding Pocket Knife, 2 3/8" 154CM Blade, Micarta Handle | $119.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 10 |
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OUTDOOR EDGE 2.5" Drop-Point Blade Pack (Black, 6 Blades), Compatibility Blade Code 250 | $10.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Contents
The Top 10 Best Knives Under $250 on Amazon in 2024
1. Benchmade 940 Osborne Folding Knife
The Benchmade 940 Osborne Folding Knife is an iconic piece in the knife world, known for its slim design and high-performance capabilities. It features a 3.4-inch S30V steel blade that is both durable and resistant to corrosion. The blade has a reverse tanto style which excels in piercing tasks, while its plain edge allows for easy slicing. The handle is constructed from lightweight aluminum, making it easy to carry without compromising sturdiness. Weighing in at only 2.4 ounces, the knife feels like an extension of your hand.
Additionally, the AXIS lock mechanism provides a smooth and reliable opening and closing experience, ensuring safety during use. The Benchmade 940 is a versatile tool suitable for everyday carry (EDC), outdoor activities, or even as a collector’s item.
This knife exemplifies high-quality craftsmanship and is a favorite among knife enthusiasts.
- Mechanism: Manual Folding Knife with AXIS Lock System.
- Versatile: From versatile ranch knife to ultimate EDC for overland adventure, the iconic 940 Osborne remains the choice folder for all outdoor exploits.
- Quality: Featuring a wear-and corrosion-resistant CPM-MagnaCut reverse tanto blade with DLC Battlewash finish and Burnt Copper anodized 6061-T6 Aluminum handle scales,
2. Spyderco Paramilitary 2
The Spyderco Paramilitary 2 is another excellent choice, merging practicality with style. This folding knife features a 3.4-inch CPM S30V stainless steel blade, ensuring long-lasting sharpness and toughness. Its unique Spyderco thumb hole allows for easy one-handed opening, making it user-friendly in any situation. The G-10 handle provides a dependable grip, even in wet conditions, enhancing safety for users.
Weighing about 3.75 ounces, it balances comfort and utility perfectly, making it a favorite for survivalists and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
In terms of performance, the Paramilitary 2 is recognized for its exceptional edge retention and slicing ability, further solidifying its reputation as one of the best knives under $250.
- An Improved Classic: Undeniably one of Spyderco's most popular and in-demand designs, the Para Military 2 distills the world-class performance of our legendary Military Model into a more compact, Pocket-Friendly package.
- Superior Quality: We kept the same high-performance full flat-ground blade but we've also lengthened the blade's tip and added additional surface jimping to both the spine and finger coil.
- A Secure Grip: The G-10 handle is narrowed at the end improving the Ergonomics. The handle and blade have been profile thinner; removing uncomfortable angles when in the closed position.
- Easy-to-Use: The Para Military 2 features extreme strength, reliability, and ease of use of our patented Compression Lock mechanism and versatility of a 4-position pocket clip.
- Dependable: Refinements to overall construction may not be drastic but from the G-10 textured handle to the steel full flat blade, everything is sharper, smoother and guaranteed to provide performance and user comfort.
3. Zero Tolerance 0450CF
The Zero Tolerance 0450CF is celebrated for its sleek design that doesn’t compromise functionality. This knife features a 3.25-inch S35VN blade, which is excellent for daily tasks due to its superior edge retention and toughness. The carbon fiber handle not only provides a lightweight grip but also adds to the knife’s aesthetic appeal. It features a frame lock mechanism that assures reliability during use.
The knife weighs just 2.5 ounces, making it an incredibly portable tool that fits snugly in your pocket, and its assisted opening mechanism enables quick deployment.
The Zero Tolerance 0450CF stands out as one of the best best knife $250 options for those looking for both style and performance.
- 3.25-inch S35VN steel blade shows amazing toughness and resistance to edge chipping, with improved edge retention. Blade Thickness: 0.121 inches
- Handle features a carbon fiber front and sturdy titanium back for comfortable in-hand feel, increased strength and excellent size/weight proportion
- DLC-coating on the blade gives sleek matte-black look and enhanced performance characteristics
- Great companion for hunters, business professionals, wilderness guides, survival experts, first responders, military, law-enforcement and more
- Ideal gift for any special occasion such as birthdays, holidays, graduations, anniversaries, promotions, weddings and more
4. ESEE Izula II
The ESEE Izula II is a fixed-blade knife known for its ruggedness and reliability in the field. With a 2.63-inch 1095 carbon steel blade, it’s built to endure tough tasks and harsh environments. The handle scales offer a secure grip, and the option to customize the knife with different handle colors adds a personal touch.
Weighing only 6.0 ounces, it’s lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for camping, hiking, or survival scenarios. The Izula II comes with a molded sheath for easy and safe transport, ensuring that it’s always at your side when you need it.
This knife stands out as an ideal choice for adventurers and survivalists seeking durable and dependable tools.
- Overall Length: 6.75"; Blade Length: 2.875"
- Cutting Edge: 2.625"; Blade Thickness: .16"
- Blade Grind: Flat; Blade Material: 1095 High Carbon Steel
- Handle Thickness: .57"; Handle Material: Tan Micarta
- Weight: 3.3 oz; Made in USA
5. Kershaw Blur Folding Knife
The Kershaw Blur Folding Knife is designed for versatility and speed, featuring a 3.4-inch Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel blade. Known for its edge retention and corrosion resistance, this knife is perfect for various tasks. The SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism allows for smooth operation, while the Trac-Tec grip ensures a secure hold even in challenging conditions.
At just 4.2 ounces, this knife is designed with user comfort in mind. Additionally, it comes with a reversible pocket clip, making it adaptable for left or right-handed users. The Kershaw Blur is an excellent multipurpose knife, suitable for both everyday tasks and outdoor adventures.
- SpeedSafe Assisted Opening makes for easy and quick one-handed, safe blade engagement with built-in thumbstud
- Reversible pocketclip allows for a versatile carrying capacity for left or right, tip-up or tip-down carry
- Secure liner lock secures blade in place during use and gives the knife a slim, sleek and stylish design while keeping the user safe
- Trac-Tec inserts on the handle ensure a quality grip and user-confident handling in all conditions—including water and marine
- Everyday carry knife for hunters, fishers, outdoorsmen, or anyone who needs a reliable knife is needed to cut through fibrous material like wood, rope, or cord
6. Cold Steel Recon 1
The Cold Steel Recon 1 is synonymous with strength and durability. This tactical folding knife features a 4-inch AUS-8A stainless steel blade, designed to withstand extreme conditions. The spear point blade shape provides excellent piercing capabilities, making it a preferred option for tactical and survival use.
Moreover, the handle is made from Griv-Ex material, ensuring a solid grip, while the Tri-Ad lock mechanism enhances safety during intense usage. Weighing in at 5.3 ounces, the Recon 1 offers a robust build while remaining manageable for regular carry.
Its rugged design and reliability make it a top contender among the best knife $250 options this year.
- SUPERIOR DESIGN - The Recon 1 folding knives are characterized by their thin, lightweight design, yet they are exceptionally strong and resilient; Available with different blade shapes and edges to suit diverse preferences and requirements
- EXCEPTIONAL BLADE - The Recon 1 folder features an American S35VN blade with DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating, combining exceptional sharpness with remarkable durability; The DLC coating enhances corrosion resistance and extends the lifespan of the blade
- SECURE GRIP - The Recon 1 high-quality G-10 handle provides a secure grip even in challenging conditions, such as when wearing thick gloves or working in cold or wet environments; This ensures precise control and minimizes the risk of accidents during use
- TRI-AD LOCK - Equipped with Cold Steel's renowned Tri-Ad locking mechanism, the Recon 1 folding knife offers unparalleled strength and shock resistance; This locking mechanism enhances the knife's reliability and safety during heavy-duty tasks
- SPECS - Weight: 5.2 oz (147.4 g); Blade Thickness: 3.5 mm; Blade Length: 4"; Blade Steel: S35VN w/DLC Coating; Handle Length/Material: 5.375" G-10; Overall Length: 9.375"; Knife Type: Folder; Blade Shape: Tanto Point; Locking Mechanism: Tri-Ad Lock
7. Benchmade Griptilian 551
The Benchmade Griptilian 551 is renowned for its comfortable, ergonomic design. Equipped with a 3.45-inch S30V stainless steel blade, this folding knife is incredibly versatile. The blade has a partially serrated edge, allowing for both slicing and sawing actions, making it a great tool for various tasks.
The glass-filled nylon handle offers a secure grip, and its ambidextrous design caters to all users. Weighing 3.8 ounces, it is easy to carry while providing outstanding durability. The Griptilian is a great option for EDC enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.
- HIGH-QUALITY: The CPM-S30V stainless steel blade is extremely well-balanced, offering superb edge qualities and rust resistance. The glass-filled nylon handle is tough yet attractive, making it ideal for hard jobs and everyday carry.
- WELL-DESIGNED: Benchmade's AXIS lock is exceptionally strong and fully ambidextrous. The Griptilian 551 is a manual knife that can be opened and closed single-handedly.
- COMFORTABLE: The 551's lightweight design and handle grips make it comfortable to hold and use. The reversible pocket clip offers ultimate accessibility.
- VERSATILE: The Griptilian 551's drop-point utility blade style and all-around functionality make it ideal for everyday use, outdoor activities and even tactical applications.
8. Gerber StrongArm Fixed Blade Knife
The Gerber StrongArm is a tactical fixed blade knife designed for tough environments. With a 4.8-inch 420HC stainless steel blade, it offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. The ergonomic glass-filled nylon handle ensures a secure grip, even during extended use.
Weighing just 7.2 ounces, it’s easy to carry, and the included sheath allows for versatile mounting options. Its robust build makes the StrongArm perfect for survival scenarios or military use.
This knife is particularly favored by those who need a reliable tool in extreme conditions.
- Full Tang Tactical Knife: The plain edge, full tang 420HC steel blade on this Gerber Gear StrongArm knife is corrosion resistant and ideal for heavy-duty use
- Rubber Grip Camping Knife: With a rubberized diamond-texture handle, you'll experience optimal control even in wet conditions; great for your camping gear collection
- Military Grade Knife with Versatile Sheath: The MOLLE-compatible sheath allows multi-mount options; perfect for securely storing your knife
- Fixed Blade Reliability: Blade on this full tang knife is 420 high carbon w/ Cerakote coating for resilience; coating boosts hardness, wear resistance, and blade life span
- Gerber Guarantee: We offer a limited lifetime warranty, reaffirming our commitment to superior quality and customer satisfaction with our camping and survival knives
9. SOG Seal Pup Elite
The SOG Seal Pup Elite is a rugged fixed-blade knife designed for tactical applications. With a 4.85-inch AUS-8 steel blade, it emphasizes strength and versatility. The knife features a partially serrated edge, enhancing its cutting capabilities for various tasks.
Its glass-reinforced nylon handle is contoured for comfort and provides a solid grip, even in challenging conditions. Weighing 8.0 ounces, it’s a bit heavier but offers excellent durability and performance. This knife is an ideal companion for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers.
- 4.75-INCH AUS-8 STAINLESS STEEL FIXED BLADE KNIVES: SEAL Pup Elite full tang knife is an outdoor knife, duty knife and navy SEAL knife with sheath; measures 9 inches in total length
- 5.4 OUNCES W/ GRN HANDLE: A nearly indestructible service knife handle for this type of Bowie knife with sheath; glass-reinforced nylon offers great grip with zero maintenance
- HARD-MOLDED KYDEX SHEATH: Great as a camping knife, hiking knife, belt knife, rescue knife, skinning knife, boot knife, or military knife sheath; razor sharp knife is made more versatile with the Kydex sheath
- BLACK TITANIUM NITRIDE-COATED PARTIALLY SERRATED BLADE: SOG’s cryogenic heat treatment hardens steel at the atomic level for a far stronger fixed blade knife
- SOG KNIVES FOR LIFE: Take care of your tactical knife and we’ll take care of you; SOG fixed blade knives with sheath are built to last, and we consider all repair and replacement requests
10. Ontario RAT II Folding Knife
The Ontario RAT II is a folding knife that provides remarkable value for its price. Featuring a 3-inch AUS-8 stainless steel blade, it’s perfect for everyday carry and light outdoor use. The knife’s handle is made of nylon for comfort and security, ensuring a solid grip during use.
With a weight of only 3 ounces, it’s incredibly portable. The RAT II is known for its smooth action and reliability, making it a staple for those searching for a dependable EDC knife.
- secure: the ambidextrous handle features textured black nylon 6 scales with an open-built steel linerlock frame
- comfortable: the rat-2 knife is a handheld size designed for comfort and performance making it ideal for everyday carry
- dependable: quick and easy access with dual thumb studs and a 4-way reversible pocket clip
- "durable: the rat-2 comes equipped with a 3" plain edge blade made of reliable aus-8 stainless steel as well as a textured nylon handle"
- "convenient size: the 4. 1" closed length handheld size is ideal for every day carry and fits in the hand and pocket comfortably"
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Knife Under $250
When selecting the best knife under $250, several factors are important to consider to ensure you make a sound investment:
1. Type of Knife
Decide whether you need a folding knife, which is portable and easy to carry, or a fixed blade, which typically offers more durability and strength. Folding knives are generally better for everyday carry, while fixed blades can be better suited for heavier duty tasks.
2. Blade Material
The material of the blade greatly influences its performance longevity. Stainless steels like S30V and AUS-8 offer good corrosion resistance and edge retention, while high-carbon steels can achieve sharper edges but may require more maintenance.
3. Handle Comfort
An ergonomic handle is crucial for comfort during extended use. Look for materials that provide a reliable grip, such as G-10 or textured rubber. The knife’s weight and balance also play a role in how comfortable it feels in your hand.
4. Locking Mechanisms
For folding knives, locking mechanisms are vital for safety. Common types include liner locks, frame locks, and AXIS locks. Ensure that the knife you’re considering has a secure lock to prevent accidental closure during use.
5. Purpose of Use
Consider the primary purpose for which you’ll be using the knife. Whether it’s for everyday tasks, camping, hiking, or tactical applications, choosing a knife designed for your specific needs can enhance functionality.
6. Brand Reputation
Choosing knives from reputable brands ensures quality and customer service, not only for the product but also for warranty and support. Brands like Benchmade, Spyderco, and Cold Steel have a strong track record and are well-regarded in the knife community.
In conclusion, investing in the best knife under $250 in 2024 means understanding your needs and preferences. Each of the knives listed above represents quality and performance, making them worthy candidates for your collection. By following the buying guide, you can confidently choose a knife that will serve you well for years to come.
Last update on 2024-09-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API | votechriscarrillo.com is a participant in the Amazon Associate program and will earn from qualifying purchases.