Impressive low cost knives $15-$30

There are so many great cheap options out there. Here is my quick list:

Ontario RAT-1
Kershaw Cryo
CRKT Drifter
Kershaw Crown
Spyderco Tenacious
 
Yo Mama said:
Ok, I'm going to be the one. For 30 bucks, there are many other options for a collector than buying a fake/ripoff. Why even suggest it?




Get the full size Vantage, just a sweet blade. Another folder I've abused is the S & W SWAT II. I've never put another knife through what I put that SWAT through, and you can usually find around 15 bucks. I really love it, so many memories.
Also, Becker Remora for a nice fixed blade that is often overlooked.
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I suggest it because D2 steel and solid titanium handles for under $50 is unbeatable. If you don't like their business model you can wait a short period as Chinese knife makers start increasing production, and you will start seeing (mostly) original designs for roughly the same price. Production and material costs are very cheap in China. Please note that I do not endorse theft, but I do support shocking product quality.
 
Please note that I do not endorse theft, but I do support shocking product quality.
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You do endorse it by buying it. I'm sure it's a great blade, but that's not the point. The idea of paying for what you get means your D2 from unknown heat treat will not fair as well as properly heated "standard" steel.


My point is for the same money, you can get a solid performer, while also paying for quality craftsmanship.
 
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Seems like you can't go wrong with the whole Byrd line they are all pretty much under $30, made by Spyderco.
 
I know you mentioned Kershaw blems, but I Just picked up a Kershaw Blur Tanto *Blem* for $29 from kershawguy.com The drop point was only a few $ more, if tantos blades are not your thing. Kershawguy rocks.
 
I quite like the EL-01 and EL-02 series of knives by Enlan. Sanrenmu also makes very good, albeit much smaller, knives. Search for Enlan or SanRenMu on ebay and prepare to be surprised by the prices.
 
The little Buck Bantams (in black or camo) at under $20 have impressed me with very nice edge off the rack
 
Another vote for the Rat 1 - just ordered my third

Also the Kershaw Oso Sweet is a very nice assisted opener for the money

I edc a Chill along with a Rat 1 - love the easy flipper action on the Chill
 
I don't see much love for the Kershaw Salvo. Can be had most places under $35 and even under $30. When I got mine the sharpness put the box was amazing and for a framelock that rides that well in the pocket and made in the USA it's a huge steal in my opinion. The tip is not a prybar tip though it's more of a razor tip. My buddy who I just got into knives :) thought it was a more expensive knife than a benchmade griptilian based off feel.
 
Opinels are pretty awesome if you need to slice and you don't have a laser beam. They cut like cutty things that were made to cut!
 
I got my hands on a Kershaw Storm in a trade (normally around $30 I think) and it really surprised me. Its a tough little knife. The blade is short, but because of the recurve it has a lot of cutting surface. Its small, basic, and tough. I love it enough to rotate it as a work knife with my ZT 350SW.
 
Svord Peasant with a little makeover.

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For the larger sizes...rat 1, Spy Tenacious, Kershaw tremors....

Smaller size, I got a Kershaw Blackout out...man this blade is stealth. Compact, quiet when deploy...fast! Razor sharp out of the box. ken onion design...when I need something that pack deep & private, the Blackout is at the $30 mark
 
Here's a knife that doesn't get talked about around here, pretty much ever:

Leatherman Crater C33

It was $18. I like it as much as any of my folders, regardless of price. Sure it doesn't have the merits of a high end Spyderco, or a Chris Reeve, or a Strider etc. For what it is though, it's fantastic. Came with a good working edge, it's light, durable, comfortable in the hand. The blade flicks out as fast or faster than any knife I've owned (auto or other). It's just a great knife.

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-Freq
 
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