Small folding pocket knife

[fatcpa]

Looking for a small (under 3" blade), light folding pocket knife for every day carry. More of an all around utility knife instead of a self defense tool. Would like opinions on "absolute best" and "best for the buck". Thanks, Jack

 

[2busy]

I don't know about the best, but all I will carry is a case.

 

[caojyn]

Carried one of these for years before switching to a fixed blade
http://www.knifecenter.com/item/GB6009/Gerber-LST-Folding-Knife-22-06009

 

[FRISKY]

I bought a couple of these from Dick's and Academy http://www.gerbergear.com/Essentials/Knives/Paraframe-Mini-Knife_22-48485
I didn't need the belt clip, so I took it off. They hold an edge, are strong and are the best pocket knife I have ever carried for daily use. Not bad for around $7 each.

 

[Rick W]

+1 on the Gerber LST. They are very good knives.
If you want a knife that is smaller, the Gerber Ultralite LST is so compact and lightweight that it is practically weightless in your pocket. I carried one for years.
Rick W

 

[rawhide]

Benchmade griptillian

 

[otis147]

spyderco UK pen knife, slipjoint, completely ambidextrous, pocket clip, wide 2" blade, one hand opening. pretty handy.

if you can find one, a u.s. made schrade 33ot for a more traditional folder.

 

[Dale Atkerson]

I always recomend a custom if budget allows. Great Eastern Cutlery is the best factory around. But a tight budget can't go wrong with a Case. You can usally pick up a nice clean used one at a gun show or pawn shop for $20-25.

 

[RyanSixer]

I carry a Spyderco Grasshopper because it falls into parameters that don't make it illegal at school.

 

[donner]

Looking for a small (under 3" blade), light folding pocket knife for every day carry. More of an all around utility knife instead of a self defense tool. Would like opinions on "absolute best" and "best for the buck". Thanks, Jack

I'm a big fan of the kershaw line. The cryo is small (mid-range on the weight issue). The kershaw swerve is 3 inches, $20 and a great utility knife with speed assist. Maybe a bit on the thicker side, but overall a good knife that be abused and lost without much concern. spyderco persistence is also a good one.