Some are meant for cutting food, some for self-defense, and others for hunting. Knives have been around since the beginning of time.
Although people have always used them to cut meat and vegetables, it wasn’t until the late 19th century that the first pocket knives were developed.
These early models were very basic and didn’t offer many features.
However, over the years, manufacturers started adding more and more features to make the knives easier to use.
Today, there are hundreds of different types of knives on the market. You can find everything from folding knives to fixed blade knives.
Many knives come with a sheath so that you don’t have to worry about carrying them in plain sight.
However, if you prefer not to wear one, then you should know that there are plenty of options available.
When you are looking to buy a knife, you might want to consider buying a quality American-made knife instead of a cheap Chinese knockoff.
Not only will these knives last longer, but they’re also much safer. They’re built using high-quality materials and craftsmanship, which means they won’t break easily.
From pocket knife models and multi-tool knives to the best chef knives, we take a look at the vast range of knives made in the USA.
Types Of Knives
What kind of knife should I get? There are so many options out there, from pocket knives to hunting knives. How do you choose between them?
Knives come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for specific purposes. The type of knife you need depends on your lifestyle and the tasks you perform.
For example, a utility knife is ideal for cutting through paper or cardboard, whereas a paring knife is better suited for peeling fruits and vegetables.
You can also consider the material the knife is made of. Some knives are made of stainless steel, which means they won’t rust over time.
Others are made of carbon steel, which is less expensive but prone to rust. Let’s take a look at different types of knives that are made in America.
Tactile Knife
A tactile knife has a handle with no grip ridges, making it easier to hold onto. This type of knife is great for people who have arthritis or other physical limitations.
A tactile knife has only one blade which can be folded so that it neatly disappears inside the sheath.
Out The Front (OTF) Knife
An OTF knife has a long, thin blade that extends outwards from the handle. It’s usually held by gripping the handle rather than the blade itself.
This style of knife makes it easy to grab and throw. It’s perfect for a fight at a greater distance.
However, it’s important to note that OTF knives are not legal to own in all US states. Check your local regulations and laws for ownership and handling of knives.
Pocket Knife
The pocket knife is one of the most popular knives available today. It comes in a variety of designs and sizes, allowing you to find one that suits your needs.
The advantage of this type of knife is that it fits easily into your pocket. You can carry it around with you wherever you go.
However, if you want a more durable knife, then a fixed-blade knife may work best for you.
Fixed Blade Knife
A fixed-blade knife features a single blade that stays permanently attached to the handle.
This type of knife offers maximum strength and durability. However, it requires some skill to use properly, so that you do not hurt yourself or others.
Hunting Knife
If you like to hunt, you will probably want to invest in a good hunting knife. These knives are typically longer than regular kitchen knives.
They are usually fitted with a sharpened edge, making them perfect for skinning games.
Paring Knife
If you enjoy cooking, you will have come across this type of knife before.
Paring knives feature straight edges, which allow you to cut fruit and vegetables without damaging their outer layers.
Utility Knife
A utility knife is versatile, offering multiple uses. It can be used as a general-purpose tool, a screwdriver, a saw, and even a penknife.
It is especially useful when camping because it allows you to prepare meals outdoors.
Chef’s Knife
A chef’s knife is an all-purpose knife that is suitable for both preparing food and cutting meat.
It has a long, slender shape, allowing it to reach deep into the body of the meat.
Serrated Edge Knife
Serrated edge knives are excellent for slicing bread. They are also ideal for cutting through tough materials such as rope.
Everyday Carry Knife (EDC)
An EDC knife is an everyday carry knife that is easy to store and convenient to use.
This type of knife fits comfortably in your hand and it can be used in a range of scenarios.
Some examples of EDC knives include folding knives, clip-point knives, and locking blades.
Why Buy A Knife Made In America?
There are several reasons why you should choose an American-made knife over a knife made anywhere else in the world.
Although American-made knives cost more than other brands, this doesn’t mean that they aren’t worth the extra money.
There are several benefits to buying American-made knives. Here are just a few:
Quality
American-made knives are usually made with better quality steel than Chinese knives.
The blades are sharper and stronger, while the handles are thicker and sturdier.
The manufacturing process in America ensures that all parts of the knife are top-notch as manufacturers have to adhere to US standards, which are stricter than in many other countries.
The blades are sharpened to perfection, while the handles are handcrafted from solid wood or other materials.
Materials
When choosing between American-made knives and those manufactured overseas, you need to consider the materials used.
For example, stainless steel is one of the most popular materials used by knife makers. However, it is much harder to machine than carbon steel.
Therefore, it takes more time and effort to make a knife blade out of stainless steel.
Carbon steel on the other hand is easier to work with, but it is not so corrosion resistant.
Stainless steel is therefore preferred by knife makers who want to ensure that their knives last for years.
Warranty
With an American knife, you know that you will get excellent quality. In addition, many US knife manufacturers also offer a warranty for each of their knives.
When you are buying an expensive knife, and something goes wrong, then having a good warranty can be worth a lot of money.
Safety
Most American-made knives are designed to be safe. There are no sharp edges on the blades, and the handles are often covered in plastic to protect your hands.
Durability
Unlike some Chinese knives, American-made knives are generally made from higher-grade metals and hardwoods.
As a result, they tend to be more durable than Chinese knives.
Design
American-made knives are typically designed with precision and style. Some companies even design their unique knives.
Price
If you are looking for a budget option, then you may find it difficult to find an affordable American-made knife.
But if you are willing to spend a little bit more, then you can find some great deals online.
Brand
Some of the biggest names in the industry are American-made. These include Kershaw, Spyderco, Benchmade, and Gerber.
Support American Economy And Local Businesses
Most American-made knives are made by small businesses that care about their products. This is something that you rarely see with Chinese knives.
In addition, buying from a US knife manufacturer supports the American economy and local businesses.
American Knife Law
Before we get into our ultimate guide to American-made knives, it’s worth taking a look at the knife law in the USA.
You might not realize how strict the laws are when it comes to carrying knives in public, so let’s take a quick look at what the law says.
Generally, knife laws and regulations vary with each state. Depending on where you live and carry your knife, you will need to abide by different rules.
For example, in California, you cannot carry any type of folding knife on school grounds.
However, you can carry a fixed blade knife in public if it has a locking mechanism.
However, in New York, you can carry a folding knife anywhere. You do not need to lock it up.
So, before you buy one, make sure that you know exactly what the law states in your area.
States typically differentiate between knives that you carry openly, and knives that you carry concealed (in a handbag or pocket).
Knife laws also make a difference between knives with a blade length of more and less than 4 inches.
Open Carry
In some states, you can carry certain types of knives openly without a permit. However, other states may require a permit, or do not allow open carry of knives at all.
Concealed Carry
There are certain areas where you must carry your knife concealed.
If you are planning on carrying a knife in these places, then you should check with the authorities first.
These places include schools, hospitals, government buildings, and airports.
There are also some places where you cannot carry a knife at all. For example, you cannot carry a knife in a bar or restaurant.
Blade Length
As mentioned earlier, there are some states where you can carry a folding blade as long as it is under four inches.
In others, you have to keep your blade shorter than this. This varies depending on the state.
Penalties For Breaking Knife Laws
Depending on which state you live in, you could face serious penalties. In many cases, this includes jail time and fines.
In many cases, the penalty depends on whether you were carrying a knife openly or concealed.
In addition, the law also takes your intention of carrying the knife and what you do with it into account.
For example, if you just carry a knife and you are caught in a state where this is not allowed, then you may be fined.
However, if you use the knife to threaten or harm someone, then you will face criminal charges, together with a fine and possible jail time.
If you have any questions about the knife laws in your area, then you should speak to a lawyer.
Buying an American-made knife or carrying does not make you a criminal everywhere in the US. However, you do need to check the laws in your state.
A Guide To Knives Made In America
American-made knives are becoming increasingly popular around the world.
They offer great value for money, and they often come from small companies that put their heart and soul into making them.
Let’s take a look at the range of knives made by US brands.
Bark River Knives
Bark River Knives are manufactured in Escanaba, Michigan. The company produces a large range of knives in small batches.
This American knife manufacturer is well established, and their outdoor knives are very popular.
Bark River Knives are a family-owned business, and each knife is handmade as well as in smaller production cycles.
While the blades typically go through a production process, the polishing, sharpening, and handle grinding are done by hand.
These American-made knives are some of the best in the world, and as they are handmade, they are also on the more expensive side.
However, the quality is unmatched and you can be sure that they will last a lifetime.
Their fixed-blade knives are one of the best available on the market today, and the material for each knife is also sourced in the USA.
Although they are a small business, they had to expand their factory a few times to make their knives even better.
These US knives are designed, built, and crafted by hand with pride and care in a small, innovative business.
They make a wide range of models with a large production line at their Jacksonville factory.
From butterfly and tactical knives to traditional everyday carry knives as well as fixed-blade knives, Bear and Son Cutlery offer a large variety of good quality knives.
They started out making trapper and hunting knives, but have developed several excellent knives over the past years.
Bear and Son Cutlery advertise that all the manufacturing of their materials and the knives themselves happen in their factory in America.
The company itself is divided into different divisions that look after different types of knives.
For example, their Bear OPs team looks after tactical knives, such as assisted-open knives, butterfly knives, and fixed-blade knives.
On the other hand, their Bear Edge division covers budget knives, including tactical knives, EDC knives, and fixed-blade survival knives.
This is one of their more recent knife lines, which means that newly developed models will be covered by the Bear Edge division.
Although the majority of the Bear and Son Cutlery knives are manufactured in the USA, some of the materials from their Bear Edge line do come from China.
However, the majority of their knives are still assembled in the US.
You can easily check if your Bear and Son Cutlery knife are made in the US, as these knives are under pattern number 102, 103, and so on.
These knives made in America are loved by many people, and they are best known as affordable hunting knives.
There are a lot of knives out there, but not all of them are made in America.
The truth is that many of the knives you see on store shelves were manufactured overseas and then shipped to the United States for sale.
However, this is not the case with Begg Knives. This small company is based in Petaluma, California, and they create standard folding knives in small batches, as well as custom knives.
These artisan knives are difficult to find as the business is a small factory, and they produce excellent knives made to order.
If you are lucky, you may find some knives from Begg Knives for resale on different websites, otherwise, you will have to go onto their waiting list.
Begg Knives use a range of materials, including Damascus steel.
As a small shop, they make the majority of the knife parts themselves, and then assemble the knives in their workshop.
These US-made knives come with a lifetime warranty, but if you take good care of your Begg Knives, then you really shouldn’t need them.
Begg Knives do also make chef knives under the Mattia Borrati brand. However, unlike their other knives, these seem to be imported.
American-made knives are the best knives in the world, and it’s not hard to see why when you take a look at the knives from the popular brand Benchmade.
Made in Oregon City, Oregon, Benchmade manufactures a range of folding EDC knives, as well as kitchen knives and fixed blade survival knives.
Whenever you see their butterfly logo on a knife, then you do know that this knife is made in the USA.
Some of their lines used to be produced overseas but you could easily distinguish them by their different colors, blue, red, and gold.
For example, the red class from Benchmade was categorized as a budget line that was made in China.
However, in recent years, Benchmade did bring all their production processes back to the US, and they are now all made in the USA.
Now made in America, they kept the color coding to differentiate between different types of knives.
The gold class is their high-end knife design. These models are very popular as they are made with Damascus steel.
The black class covers their tactical designs for law enforcement and military units.
Their blue class covers all the general everyday carry knives.
Although Benchmade does not shout about their US manufacturing processes too much, they do not appear to have any factories overseas anymore, so whenever you purchase a Benchmade knife, you can be fairly certain that it is made in America.
American-made knives are a great way to support the local economy and get some quality steel for your money.
Knife company Blue Bell Collar Blades produce their custom kitchen knives in small batches in Provo, Utah.
This is one of the smallest knife manufacturers in the US, but they still manufacture large enough batches to be available to the public.
Blue Collar Blades make practical kitchen knives that are well-built.
Their philosophy is that you simply need a couple of good knives in your kitchen to get all your vegetables and food done.
You can feel that the founder has a background in construction, as their knife designs are functional and get the job done.
Apart from a chef knife range, they also added some EDC gear to their website, including an EDC minimalist multi-tool.
However, this professional knife design with plenty of high-quality carbon steel comes at a cost, and you will likely only afford a couple of these knives.
As their production is artisan and small scale, they do not need to import any of their materials, so these knives are made in the USA.
Blueton, California, is where Brous Blades have based their factory. There, they may have a range of folding EDC knives.
Also a small, artisan company, Brous Blades focuses a lot of its efforts on design and practical knife basics.
The functional look may not be for everyone, but they are good-quality American knives from a small Californian manufacturer.
Another reason why these knives may not be so popular is that they are more difficult to find.
As a small shop, they do not produce large batches, but if you are after something special from a local Californian company, then Brous Knives is the place to go.
If you’re looking for a knife that will last, then the American-made knife is your best bet.
Just outside of Post Falls, Idaho, Buck Knives produce a large range of hunting and EDC knives, as well as kitchen knives.
Buck Knives is one of the best-known knife brands in America. However, they started off making very cheap knives in Taiwan around the year 2000.
The company initially had its factory rooms in California but moved to Idaho due to the high manufacturing costs in California.
This allowed them to pull out most of their overseas manufacturing, and bring the majority of the knife production process back to the US.
However, they still manufacture around 20% of their lines in a factory in China.
In recent years, Buck Knives bought a Cerakote machine for their US factory which means they are producing some great colored knives now.
In the past, colored knives were mainly made on the cheap in China, but with new machinery, also US knife manufacturers started to give their customers a lot more design and color options for even the lower quality knives.
Bradford USA is another small, family-owned business located in Kent, Washington.
They specialize in custom handmade knives and offer a wide range of different styles, including survival and kitchen knives, as well as fixed-blade hunting knives.
They have been in the industry since 2012, and have grown into a reputable brand name in the US.
Their founder Brad Larkin worked in manufacturing before, which gave him the experience needed to run his own business.
Bradford USA has a passion for creating unique knives and they do this by hand and small-scale production using traditional methods.
Their Gatsby steak knife was one of their most successful creations.
Their knives are all hand forged by skilled craftsmen in the Pacific Northwest. Their production is entirely done in America.
They also make some custom designs using steels from Bohler-Uddeholm, and the majority of the knife handles come from Micarta.
Camillus is a relatively young company based in Rocky Mount, North Carolina.
They focus on making hunting and survival folding knives as well as EDC knives, and they have been doing so since 2007.
Now owned by Acme United, Camillus uses some great innovative technology in their knives, such as titanium bonded materials for their blades and handles.
Unfortunately, these knives aren’t made in America. Their knives made in the USA are only bushcraft and hunting knives. These designs are made with 1095 steel.
Camillus’ website doesn’t mention where their factories exactly are but they have a factory and distribution center in North Carolina, so this is likely where their American knives are made.
You can purchase knives from Camillus directly on their website or on Amazon.
Colonial Knife Corp
Colonial Knife Corporation is an American manufacturing department that sits under the Colonial Cutlery International name which is used for knives and cutlery manufactured overseas.
Although different parts do come from overseas for their Colonial Knife Corp lines, the majority of the manufacturing process and assembly is done in Plymouth, Massachusetts where one of their factories is based.
This means that their knives are at least in part made in the USA.
Colonial Knife Corp is an old company making knives in their old factory premises on Rhode Island throughout the 20th century.
The knives originally produced are now vintage switchblades which are valued by collectors.
In modern times, people may be more familiar with their hunting knives which are also used by the US army.
Colonial Knife’s products include pocket knives, folders, tactical knives, fixed blade knives, and many other types of knives.
They started in the 1920s, and with a focus on tactical knives during the war, they became one of the biggest knife manufacturers in America in the 1960s.
The company changed hands in 1998 and changed significantly in design and style with the new owner.
Dawson Knifemakers Limited is an American knife manufacturer located in Prescott Valley.
Its founder Barry Dawson launched the company in the 1970s, and it has been a family business ever since.
They produce a wide range of both fixed-blade knives as well as tactical knives. From curved knives to katanas, you can find everything in their range.
The majority of their production processes are still done by hand, including the grinding and quality checks.
Although Dawson Knives keeps growing continually, they are still a small business making only small batches of knives.
This makes them rare and hard to find on the market. However, you can get your hands on some great deals if you look around.
Dawson Knives say that all their knives are made in their factory and that the materials used for their knives are sourced from the US.
Dexter Russell Knives were founded in 1818 as the Harrington Cutlery Company, and they had a long way to becoming Dexter Russell in 2001.
Their factory is based in Southbridge, Massachusetts, and they produce a large range of models on a large scale.
Dexter Russell is one of the oldest knife manufacturers in the US.
They have been making blades and tools for a long time, but today they focus mainly on kitchen cutlery. You can buy Dexter Russell knives on their website, or amazon.com.
Diamond Blade Knives
Based in Deniston, Texas, Diamond Blade Knives, also known as Knives of Alaska, has had an interesting start.
Their founder was Charles Allen, who was an avid biologist and Alaska wilderness guide. He invented a new knife forging technique, called friction folding.
With this method, high pressure is applied along the edge of the knife’s blade.
Allen’s innovative forging technique was inspired by the way submarines are welded together.
And just as submarines have to withstand extreme pressures, the edges of these knives are extremely hard and tough.
However, the rest of the blade uses tool-grade steel, which means it is on a much lower hardness level.
As Diamond Blade Knives are just a small shop, they do not produce a lot of knives and it may be difficult to find one.
However, when you manage to get your hands on one of these knives, we found that it is definitely worth the wait.
DPx Gear is a company based in San Diego, California. Their main product lines cover survival knives and EDC knives.
Their founder survivalist Robert Young Pelton launched the company in 2010 and they produce several hard-use knives that can be used in extreme survival situations.
The DPx Gear knives include a large selection of tactical knives, including fixed blades and folders.
Their knives have a life-saving feel to them, so they have a lot of innovative technology inside.
These include a patented dual-action locking mechanism, which makes sure that the blade stays open even if the user is under heavy stress.
Another feature is the ergonomic handle design, which allows users to hold the knife with ease.
DPx Gear produces its knives in Italy as well as the US.
However, they typically source their materials within the US as part of a partnership agreement with Southern Grind.
Emerson Knives are made in Los Angeles, California. Emerson is one of the best-known knife brands.
They produce their custom-made tactical and EDC knives, as well as kitchen knives, in small batches.
Their most popular knife, the Emerson CQC-7, has had huge success in the past, and the company has designed and produced some excellent knives.
Their key focus is on tactical knives, and they have developed a reputation for producing quality tactical knives.
The founder, Earnest Emerson, has had an interest in martial arts since early childhood, and he has taught varying classes in martial arts to law enforcement officers as well as military cadets.
All Emerson knives are made in the US, and all parts are sourced locally whenever possible.
This ensures that each knife will last longer than any other knife, and it’s much better quality than overseas brands.
Esee Knives are made in Idaho Falls, Idaho. They specialize mainly in making a large number of survival and EDC knives.
Their designs are fully focused on survival knives, but they have outsourced their design creation to another company.
While Esee knives are assembled and produced in the USA, they do license their designs to other knife companies across the world, which means that these knives may also be manufactured overseas.
So, if you find a knife that has an Esee stamp on it, then it may not necessarily be manufactured in America.
The GTI name can be found on several different knives because their founder Justin Gingrich lends a helping hand to other knife manufacturers with design.
The knives that GTI produces are mainly hard-use EDC knives, which use titanium and steel to ensure durability and strength.
Their brand designs are all made in Wade, Nebraska.
If you want a tough, dependable knife from GTI, then take a look at their website or on bladehq.com.
Heretic Knives
The factory of Heretic is in Sebastian, Florida, where they produce a limited number of out-the-front knives.
This company is run by a team made up of husband and wife, and they make only small batches of their popular knives.
Each one has its unique style and features, which makes it stand out from the crowd.
There are some nice-looking knives here, with great design options and a large number of options.
Hogue Knives started in the 1960s making pistol grips. Back then they partnered with famous gun companies, such as Heckler and Koch and SIG Sauer.
But their business with knives only really took off when they got together with Allen Elishewitz in 2010.
Since then, Hogue has grown into a very successful business, making quality knives for both hard use and tactical purposes for law enforcement and the military.
It seems that all their knives are made in the USA. However, there are a few exceptions with their heat treating processes.
The assembly of their knives happens in Nevada, and they make their parts in their California factory.
Ka-Bar knives have been around for quite some time, and they have become the main knife producer for the US Marines.
Their factory is in Olean, New York State, where they make survival, hunting, and tactical knives, as well as EDC knives.
As their knife designs are practical and functional, they often get copied and you have to be careful to find a genuine knife.
With their long history in military, hunting and war, their iconic Mark II knife has the same strong reputation as a reliable knife as the Bowie knife as well as the Buck 110.
Ka-Bar was originally a family-run business but the company was sold in the 1960s.
Since then, the business changed hands several times, each owner manufacturing the Ka-Bar knives mostly overseas.
In the 1990s Cutco bought the business, and they decided to bring the manufacturing back to the US.
In 2007, Ka-Bar bought Becker Knife & Tool, and both brands produce knives separately.
These knives are all fixed blade knives, so if you see a Ka-Bar knife that has a folding blade, then it was likely made overseas in Taiwan or China.
The company continues to partner with other knife manufacturers, such as Spartan Blades, to increase their range and offer more options to customers.
All their knives come with a lifetime warranty, but they don’t cover damage caused by misuse.
Lamson states on their website that they started making knives over 200 years ago, which would make them the oldest knife manufacturer in the US.
They moved their factory premises from Shelburne Falls to Westfield, Massachusetts, in 2014.
There were a few ups and downs then, but Lamson recovered and it made their small production operations much more efficient.
Lamson uses a large amount of German steel, and although it doesn’t state on their website exactly where they source their other materials, they likely come from overseas.
However, the knife production and assembly are done in their Westfield factory.
Lamson only focuses on kitchen knives, and they also sell some BBQ and kitchen accessories.
This company started in the 1980s making tools for mechanics. They later expanded their product line to include multi-tools.
They were one of the first companies to start producing folding knives, and their Leatherman folder series is still popular among many people.
Today, Leatherman makes a wide variety of products, including multi-tools and knives.
They made their products in Portland, Oregon, since the beginning, and they are still manufacturing all knife parts there, as well as assembling and production.
Although you may have expected this well-known brand to expand into overseas production, they have always produced their knives in the US, and with this, have become one of the biggest US knife manufacturers in the world.
They also sell accessories like holsters and sheaths. You can buy Leatherman knives online at leathermansupply.com or on Amazon.com.
Mattia Borrani
We already mentioned Mattia Borrani in connection with Begg Knives. They make excellent kitchen knives in a small factory in Petaluma, California.
Although they produce smaller batches of custom kitchen knives in the USA, the majority of their production facilities are overseas.
Mattia Borrani was launched with a Bowie chef knife, and now they offer a range of kitchen knives suitable for home cooks as well as professional chefs.
As they have seen increased popularity in recent years, they are likely to expand their production facilities in the future.
Medford Knife is another great example of an American-made knife manufacturer.
Their main factory is located in Phoenix, Arizona, and their founder Greg Medford is very proud of his small knife manufacturing facilities, making everything in America.
They source their steel from US companies and even make the heat treatment for their knives in house. This is unusual for a small shop.
So, they do not use any imported components in their knives. All their knives are assembled by hand in their workshop.
Medford Knife produces a wide range of different tactical and hard-use EDC knives.
Southern Grind is an American manufacturer that focuses on creating high-quality folding knives.
They have been around for a while and have grown into a well-respected brand.
Their best-known models, Bad Monkey and Spider Monkey have been very successful, and they are well known for their modern-looking folders.
However, these knives are more expensive which are well worth the price as they use premium materials, including carbon fiber, titanium, and CPM steels for a number of their knife designs.
Their factory is in Peachtree, Georgia, and they make their parts and production there.
Spartan Blades is another American knife maker that produces a wide range of products, including hard-use EDC knives, tactical knives, and survival knives.
However, they are mostly focused on tactical and hunting knives, which are made in their factory in Southern Pines.
Spartan Blades was founded by two retired Green Berets in 2008.
They started producing smaller batches of knives but managed to expand their operations in 2014 when they moved to the Southern Pines premises.
Spartan Blades focus on quality which means that they use top-notch materials like stainless steel, titanium, and carbon fiber.
However, this also means that their knives are more on the expensive side.
In recent years, they partnered with Ka-Bar to release a few new lines, including some more affordable models.
This partnership focuses on three lines: Gold, Silver, and Bronze.
The Gold models will be made in the Spartan Blades factory in California.
Silver will be made in the Ka-Bar factory in New York, and the Bronze series will be manufactured overseas in Taiwan and China.
For the original Spartan Blades knives, you will find only their folders are made in Taiwan, and the fixed blades are made in the States.
Just like most US knife manufacturers, they also offer a lifetime warranty on their knives.
The Tactile Knife Company was founded by Tactile Turn (pen makers) that have been growing their knife ranges through different Kickstarter campaigns.
Tactile Knife Company is an American knife manufacturer that produces small batches of kitchen knives as well as EDC knives.
Their big focus is on quality, and they try to make even all their parts in their own workshop.
Based in Garland, Texas, they source only very few of their materials from other US manufacturers, but the rest of the parts are all made in their factory.
As a small shop, they are more on the expensive side but with their big interest in high quality, this small knife manufacturer produces excellent quality products.
If you are interested in a TKC knife, then take a look at their website.
V Nives
One of the youngest knife manufacturers on our list, V Nives only started in 2017.
They are based in Washington but they state clearly that their knife production is not only based in the US.
V Nives has been collaborating with several other companies to increase their designs and range.
They have widened their range so much that they can now offer budget knives, as well as knives with a higher price tag.
The founder Mike Vellekamp is keen to have a similar business setup as Spyderco where he worked for 12 years.
This means that V Nives will also manufacture in carefully checked factories in Japan and Taiwan.
For the moment, they make their knives in Taiwan, the US, and China.
Zero Tolerance knives are made in Tualatin, Oregon, where they make a range of good-quality folding EDC knives on a large scale.
In the years since its foundation, Zero Tolerance has become one of the best high-end EDC knife brands in the world.
Part of the Kershaw company, their knives go through the same production process but they use higher quality materials for the Zero Tolerance brand.
Although they have been making knives in factories in China and Japan, their main focus is the US market and they want to continue operating in the US.
If you are interested in buying a Zero Tolerance knife, check out the ZT website, or knifecenter.com.
How To Care For Your Knife
Buying a good knife is important as good quality materials for the blade and handle mean that your knife can last for many years.
However, you will also need to make sure that you care for your knife properly.
Let’s take a look at some general tips on how you maintain your super steel and carbon knives.
Keep Your Knife Clean
To make sure that your knives stay safe and usable, always wash them after using them. Washing your knives will remove any dirt from the blade.
If you want to avoid getting cuts while cleaning your knives, be careful not to get too close to the edge of the blade.
Use caution when handling the knife as well.
Some people think that they can save time by using the dishwasher to clean their knives.
However, this isn’t recommended, especially for more expensive knives.
While the dishwasher does a good job of cleaning dishes, it doesn’t work so well with metal objects like knives.
The dishwasher uses hot water to heat the surface of the object being washed. This causes the metal to expand and contract, which can damage the blade.
The dishwasher also tends to wear down the finish of the blade. As a result, the blade becomes duller and less durable.
Check the manufacturer’s recommendation to find out how to clean your knife best.
Dry Your Knife After Use
After washing your knives, you need to let them dry completely before putting them away.
If you store your knives in an area where there is humidity, they won’t dry quickly and may rust.
Use a towel to protect your hands when drying your knives. The best way to dry your knives is to lay them flat or use a microfiber cloth.
Store Your Knives Safely
Store your knives in a place that is cool and dark. Avoid areas that are humid or damp. Also, try to keep your knives in a secure location.
While some people enjoy displaying knives on display racks, others prefer keeping their knives out of sight.
Either way, it’s important to keep your knives out of harm’s way.
Knives should never be left out on a table or countertop. Even if you are only going to use one knife, you still shouldn’t leave it lying around unsupervised.
This is especially true if you have kids who might play with your knives. They could accidentally cut themselves or someone else.
Sharpen Your Knife Only When Needed
The majority of good-quality knives will not need sharpening regularly.
Particularly high-end knife models can react very sensitive to sharpening with a whetstone, so you want to avoid this as much as possible.
The better way to sharpen your knife again is honing.
You can do this with honing steel or a rod. Just rub the knife against the honing rod and it will be sharp again.
This method is much more gentle than sharpening with a whetstone which means that knives made of premium steel will last for longer.
How To Handle A Knife Safely
Knowing how to handle your knife safely is essential to ensure that you do not injure yourself or others.
In addition, when you know how to handle your survival knife safely, then you may be able to use it much better in situations out in the wild.
Whether you’re camping or hiking, hunting or fishing, you should always be prepared to defend yourself from a dangerous situation.
Here are some general tips on how to handle a knife safely.
Never Point A Knife At Another Person
You should never use your knife to cause harm or injuries. That’s why never point your knife at another person or threaten them with a knife.
Threatening someone with a knife can be a criminal offense, and you may face a fine or jail time for this.
Keep Your Hands Away From Your Body
It may seem obvious but keep your hands away from your body when handling knives. This ensures that you do not cut yourself.
Make Sure The Blade Is Protected
Always make sure that the blade of your knife is protected. If it isn’t, then you could get hurt if you accidentally stab yourself while cutting something.
Hold The Blade At An Angle Of 45 Degrees Or Less
When holding a knife, hold the blade at an angle of 45 degrees or less.
Holding the knife too close to your face puts you at risk of being cut by the tip of the blade.
Use Both Hands For More Control And Precision
Depending on the type of knife and what you want to cut, you can also use both hands to control your knife better.
Holding a knife with one hand only increases your chances of getting injured. Try using both hands instead.
Practice With Safety First
Practice safe knife-handling techniques before you take your knife out and use it.
You’ll want to practice until you feel comfortable that you do not harm yourself or others.
Conclusion
Whether you are looking for a kitchen knife to create some special dishes, or you need a hunting knife when you are out in the wild, some fantastic American manufacturers produce high-quality knives.
Although American knives typically come with a higher price tag, you know you will get a much better quality product.
In addition, you usually also get a lifetime warranty with your knife.
But the best thing about buying knives made in the USA is that you can support small, local businesses that work hard to create excellent knives for every situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Most American Knife?
Many different types of knives were assembled and produced in the USA.
American companies such as Spyderco and Benchmade make some of the most popular knives on the market.
However, many other companies have been producing knives in America for decades.
What Kind Of Knife Do Navy SEALs Use?
Navy SEALs often carry folding knives because they’re easy to conceal and lightweight.
Navy SEALs use the Ontario MK 3 Navy knife, which has become standard across the US.
This knife is made of stainless steel. The blade is 6 inches long and its folding size makes it an ideal piece of equipment to carry around.
Can You Legally Carry A Knife In America?
This depends on the state where you live, and where you carry the knife. In some US states, even the possession of knives may be illegal.
In other states, you are allowed to own them but you may need a permit to carry a knife openly.
If you are caught carrying a knife illegally, you may face fines or even jail time.
Are Any Cold Steel Knives Made In the USA?
Yes, some cold steel knives are manufactured in the United States.
However, these knives can be manufactured all over the world, including in China, Japan, and India.
Some of the best-known brands include Kershaw, Gerber, Victorinox, Buck, etc. These companies produce some of the best quality knives in the world.
Which Are The Best Knives For Hunting?
Hunting knives are designed to help hunters kill their prey. They come in various sizes and shapes depending on the kind of hunting you plan to do.
Hunting knives are usually very sharp and durable.
What Knife Do Green Berets Use?
Green Berets use a Yarborough knife. With a large amount of tough training, the US special forces need a durable and sharp knife.
Green Beret graduates received a Yarborough knife which was designed and manufactured by the American knifemaker Chris Reeve.
What Is A Dirk Knife?
A dirk knife is a small, single-bladed dagger without a handguard. With their sharp blades, dirk knives can cause serious bodily harm.
Dirk knives are fixed-blade knives where the blade is not hidden in a sheath, and is locked into position.
What Knife Do The Marines Use?
The Marines typically use a Ka-Bar USMC knife, which has a fixed blade and a handguard. The blade can also have a serrated edge.
The Marine Corps also uses the M1911A1 pistol which comes with a knife attached to the handle. This knife is called the M1911 bayonet.
What Is A Wasp Knife Used For?
Wasp knives have been specifically designed to inject gas through the blade into the stabbing wound.
This will freeze the wound and expand it, leading to severe bodily injury.
What Is The Purpose Of A Bowie Knife?
Bowie knives are practical hunting knives that can be used when out in the wild.
Bowies are versatile knives that can be used for cutting meat, skinning game, fishing, and more.
These knives can also be used for self-defense, as well as any skinning and butchering.
Why Do Dive Knives Have Blunt Tips?
Dive knives aren’t typically used for hunting where you need to stab or pierce something. For this reason, they do not need a sharp tip.
In addition, it is much safer and easier to handle when the knife doesn’t have a sharp tip while diving.
A knife can easily slip out of your hand and may puncture your diving suit and the hoses connected to your diving gear.
Blunt tip knives are also ideal for chiseling, hacking and digging.
Hi, my name is Tom Bower and I have had a passion for knives since I was in my early 20s. I moved out on my own and started collecting my own furniture, utensils, and hobbies. Not only do I have a passion for cooking, but I also love being outdoors in adventure mode.
I have dedicated part of my life to finding my favorite knives for different occasions. Have you ever tried to cut through a steak with a blunt knife? Or a rope with a low-quality pocket knife? Once you get a taste of quality, you’ll never go back to what you knew before.
