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Best lock-back pocketknife

knife-200x148Q. What is the best lock-back pocketknife (3- to 4-inch blade) for the money?
–Knifeless Joe, Licking, Mo.

A. Hey Joe. You should be able to get a good quality lock-back that will last many years for about $25 to $40 bucks. One of the best options out there is the Gerber EZ Out ($30; www.gerbergear.com). It’s a simple, strong knife with a 3 1/4-inch blade, solid plastic handle, easy one-handed opening — and it’s made in the USA. Gerber has sold more than 2 million EZ Outs over the past 15 years. Naturally there are lots of other good options out there.

Remember, when looking for a new knife, stick with well known brands like Buck, Kershaw, and Gerber and avoid cheap knockoffs made in China. When shopping for a new lock-back, make sure that when it’s in the open position there’s no movement of the blade. It should feel solid like there’s no chance of it folding on your hand. Hope that helps.


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11 Comments on Best lock-back pocketknife

  1. well i have 2 things to say i just bought a kershaw leek and its most likly the best knife i own and i own 16 knives. and if you want a more good looking knife that is made in the usa check out case.

  2. You should invest in a knife that will last a long time. before you buy check with an adult in your troop on the maxamum length your knife can be.

  3. good ole owl // April 27, 2009 at 1:07 am // Reply

    Can’t go wrong with a Buck. I carry the 412 and the 110. the 450 with a packet or belt clip attached is an easy carry also.

    • KnifeFanatic // July 16, 2011 at 3:31 am // Reply

      Also in addition to those Buck Knives, the Buck Vantage Series is VERY good You can get a knife that is S3OV with G-10 Handles for around 60 dollars WITH a lifetime warranty, and they have more economical options for the more fiscally minded among us.

  4. i like the leatherman c33lx, but it isn’t a lockback. its liner-lock. in lock back, i would say go with BUCK.

  5. i use a swiss army nife most of the time but i think i should get a lackback its safer

  6. knife owner pete // April 16, 2009 at 3:07 pm // Reply

    i have several good knifes and one i tend to like is a BUCK 870. it is used by the u.s paratropers and is vary sturdy. also check out the BUCK 110

  7. Deer slayer // April 6, 2009 at 4:55 pm // Reply

    I have a Boker and a Hen & Rooster pocketknife.They are both made in Germany but, they are really good knives.

  8. knife-dude // April 6, 2009 at 8:49 am // Reply

    nice!

  9. Thanks for the cool infomation Gear Guy!

  10. Scout For Life // April 4, 2009 at 1:18 pm // Reply

    Gear Guy I bought a BSA lockback knife but it is made in china was this a mistake?

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