Trying to find a cheap USA made edc

J

JKLnHYD

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Apr 14, 2014
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So, just to start off being totally honest, my being cheap has resulted in owning mostly crap knives. I thought I could take advantage of the knowledge of others before my next purchase. I was about to order a Byrd cara cara 2, and probably still will at some point, but got to thinking I would like to have a knife made in the USA. I'm looking for either a locking folder just over 3" or a pocketable fixed blade between 2" and 3" for mostly light edc use. I was wondering if there was anything around or below $30. I know that's asking a lot, but any help would be appreciated. So far, I've only found some spyderco slipjoints. I get the feeling I'm more likely to find a small fixed blade in that price range than a locking folder.
 
I think the standard answer for that one is the Ontario Rat 1. I have never had one myself.
 
Becker BK11. On amazon for $38, you can find them cheaper though. Really can never go wrong with a Becker for a very sturdy nicely priced fixed blade. Bottle opener is a great touch for an EDC.
 
You can find a Kershaw leek used for around that or new for around $50. Leeks are designed well IMO it will satisfy you even if you have to dish out a few more bucks for a new one if u can't find one used :)

Hope this helps
 
Although bigger than you asked for, the Buck 110 is probably the best bargain out there.
You can find them on sale for $29.99 and it's guaranteed for life.
I understand they produce a huge number of these and with automation it keeps costs down, but the materials alone would seem to cost more than the finished product.
 
The Buck Vatage Pro would be a good choice.

Or the Benchmade mini griptilain (at 2.91") or even the Kershaw Blur - but I cant remember with certainty where it's manufactured.
 
Wow, thanks for all the quick responses. A question about the Becker knives. While looking into that, I came across the Becker remora. It looks to fit my needs and wants pretty well, except it's made of 440a which I have never heard spoken of kindly. In this instance, would it be an issue or not taking a proper edge, or just lacking in edge retention, or is it decent if made by a good company? I like sharpening my knives, as long as they don't go blunt immediately.
 
If you don't mind 2nd hand, check pawn shops in your area. I picked up the previously mentioned Kershaw Leek at one in Virginia for $13 out the door. wasn't perfect, but that is better for me as I will not be afraid to use it. Picked up a 1973 Buck 110 at a pawn shop in San Diego for $26. Sent it in to Buck and got it back looking brand new.

You can probably find some Gerber's on an auction site that were US made. LST is the model I believe.
 
Honestly, with your budget, your best bet is going to be a Kershaw blem from kershawguy.com

Dave is an awesome guy to work with and he provides free shipping on all orders.

One of Kershaw's best made in USA EDC blades is the 1760 Skyline. He's got blems for $29 shipped! You can't beat that. Keep in mind blem models have minor cosmetic blemishes that deem it a factory second, which may include scuffs on the G10 handle, or uneven finish on the blade. But they don't hinder the knife's performance and Dave stands behind the product 100%. If there's a problem, he'll take care of you.
 
Modern 440a from reputable manufacturers are solid users. Its all about the heat treat. People speak highly of the Remora relatuve to price. 440a from China maybe 15 years ago was junky but even that has changed a bit. I have chinese rough rider brand traditionals all 440a. Not fantastic! But for light edc its a great value!

I would suspect Beckers version would be much better along the lines of 440a from Oleans, NY which is excellent.
 
cchu518 said:
Modern 440a from reputable manufacturers are solid users. Its all about the heat treat. People speak highly of the Remora relatuve to price. 440a from China maybe 15 years ago was junky but even that has changed a bit. I have chinese rough rider brand traditionals all 440a. Not fantastic! But for light edc its a great value!

I would suspect Beckers version would be much better along the lines of 440a from Oleans, NY which is excellent.
Click to expand...

Yup. 440A can make a decent knife, albeit not astoundingly wear resistant.
 
The ken onion family line up from kershaw ( chive, scallion, leek, and shallot) all can be had for around or under $40 brand new. If you like assisted.

Kershaw skyline for a manual knife under or around $40 new.
 
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I appreciate the help, but you've caused me a far more serious problem. Too many knives I want to buy.
 
The Buck Vantage line are for the most part well made and in the USA. The cheapest line is the "Select", followed by the "Avid" and "Pro". You can get the "Select Large" which has a 3 1/4" blade for a hair under $30.
 
You can find something on usamadeblade.com

Kershaw makes a good knife. Kershawguy.com is always my first stop when looking for a Kershaw knife.
 
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