Nowadays, more and more people are carrying self-defense weapons, such as handguns, pepper spray, and even martial arts. However, if you are looking to stock up with your self-defense arsenal with a new tool, then a folding knife can offer you several advantages. Some of these advantages include the fact that a folding pocket knife or tactical knife is a more discreet option which means they are easy to conceal.
If you are attacked, then they will not know that you have this tool of self-defense.A folding combat knife is also a very convenient option because they are small and compact and can fit nicely into your pocket. Finally, you should keep in mind that a well-designed folding blade is just as good as a high-quality fixed blade knife.The following are reviews of 5 of the best folding knives that have been designed for self-defense:
Spyderco Civilian Folding Knife
The Spyderco Civilian folding knife that is ideal for self-defense and features a patented reverse “S” blade shape and also has an ultra-fine point to provide improved cutting power. It is considered one of the best when it comes to concealable self-defense folding knives because the narrow steel blade helps reduce the overall weight and it can be opened with just one hand.
| Price | $$ |
| Product Dimensions | 6 x 1 x 1 inches |
| Product Weight | 6.4 ounces |
Key Features
- Narrow ATS 55 steel blade
- Blade is 4-inches long
- Reverse “S” blade shape
- Mid-positioned back lock with dent locks for security
- Stainless steel liners
- Textured black G-10 handle for a more secure grip
- Pocket clip included for immediate access
Cons
- Folding knife does not come with a box or a case
- Should not be used for general or daily use
Smith & Wesson Border Guard SWBG2TS Folding Knife
The Smith & Wesson Border Guard Folding Knife is a high carbon stainless steel knife with a partially serrated clip point Tanto Blade. It also features ambidextrous thumb knobs with dual blood grooves. This folding knife is ideal for self-defense and comes at a very affordable price. Smith & Wesson is a very well-known and reputable brand and they make weapons to help save lives.
| Price | $ |
| Product Dimensions | 6 x 6 x 4.5 inches |
| Product Weight | 4.5 inches |
Key Features
- High carbon stainless steel
- Partially serrated clip point
- Ambidextrous thumb knobs
- Track Tech inserts
- 4-inch blade length
- Overall length is 10 inches
- Integrated seatbelt cutter and glass breaker
Cons
- Very large knife
- Handle has a very rough texture
Tac-Force Spring Assisted Grey Tanto Folding Knife
The Tac-Force Spring Grey Tanto Folding Knife is spring assisted and is 4.75 inches when closed with a 3.5-inch black finish. The blade material is stainless steel and it features a black matte finish with a Spearhead blade style. Spring assisted knives to use an internal mechanism to finish opening the blade after you partially open it yourself by means of a flipper or thumb studs that is attached to the blade.
| Price | $ |
| Product Dimensions | 3.5-inch blade |
| Product Weight | 4.8 ounces |
Key Features
- Speed-assisted rescue liner lock
- Integrated belt cutter and glass breaker
- Dual thumb studs and extended tang
- Tac-Force etching
- Aluminum handles
- Stainless pocket clip
- Comes in a box
Cons
- Knife may come loose and need to be tightened
- A bit bigger than expected
- Locking mechanism may sometimes jam when you try to close it
Kershaw Volt SS Stainless Steel Speedsafe Knife
The Kershaw Speedsafe Knife is a folding self-defense knife that has a 3.5-inch blade length and is made of steel with a bead-blasted finish. The blade has been heating treated to provide the best strength, hardness, and edge. The shape of the blade is a very versatile clip point that is narrow and provides extra control over cutting. It also comes with a pocket clip so you can wear it either with the tip up or down.
| Price | $ |
| Product Dimensions | 6 x 1 x 1 inches |
| Product Weight | 4 ounces |
Key Features
- Classic clip point blade
- Pure stainless steel
- Handle is stainless steel with a frame lock
- Slim design
- Includes a pocket clip
- Speedsafe assisted opening
- Ambidextrous flipper
Cons
- No thumb studs
- May be difficult to disengage the blade lock
- May be heavier than expected
SOG Flash II Assisted Folding Knife
The SOG Flash II Folding Knife features a partially serrated blade and also comes with the choice of tiger stripe, black TiNi, or satin finishes. There is an additional safety lock to allow for improved security. The blade is 3.5 inches of steel and also has an ergonomic handle that will make it difficult for someone to pull out of your hand when you are faced with a self-defense scenario. It can easily be opened with just one hand.
| Price | $ |
| Product Dimensions | 8 x 1.4 x 0.7 inches |
| Product Weight | 2.4 ounces |
Key Features
- 5-inch heated blade
- SOG assisted technology for fast and easy opening
- Reliable and fast blade locking system
- Contoured and glass reinforced Zytel handle
- Lightweight, compact, and easy to carry
- Reversible bayonet clip extending from the back of the handle
- Ergonomic handle for comfort and safety
- High-tension coil springs
- 13-inch blade thickness
Cons
- Poorly positioned safety switch
- May have too much blade wiggle
- May not be able to open with just one hand
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a good quality knife for self-defense purposes, then a folding knife is an ideal choice because they are smaller, more lightweight, compact, and can easily be concealed in your pocket. It is also good to purchase a knife that will open quickly with only one hand and a knife that offers you a nice and secure grip so it cannot be taken from your hands if you are faced with a self-defense scenario.
Some additional features you may find with folding knives are the integrated seatbelt cutter and glass breaker which are great in any emergency situation. However, some of these blades may be a bit longer than what is allowed in your area for a concealed weapon. It is always recommended that you check the law for the state you are in to ensure that you purchase a folding knife with a legally appropriate blade length.