Fixed Blade Knives vs Folding Knives: Which One Should You Buy?

Choosing the right knife can be a tough decision, especially when deciding between a fixed blade knife and a folding knife. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a camper, a hunter, or someone who simply appreciates a high-quality knife, understanding the key differences between these two types will help you make an informed choice. In this guide, we'll break down the pros and cons of each, helping you determine which knife best suits your needs.

Fixed Blade Knives: Strength and Reliability

Fixed blade knives are exactly what their name suggests—knives with a solid, non-folding blade. These knives are known for their durability, strength, and dependability, making them a favourite among survivalists, hunters, and bushcrafters.

Pros of Fixed Blade Knives

1. Stronger and More Durable: Because they have no moving parts, fixed blade knives are incredibly robust. They can handle heavy-duty tasks like chopping, batoning, and prying without the risk of breaking or failing.
2. Easy to Maintain: Without hinges or locks to worry about, cleaning and maintaining a fixed blade knife is straightforward. This is especially important for outdoor use, where dirt and debris can accumulate quickly.
3. Quick Deployment: Since there’s no need to unfold or unlock the blade, a fixed blade knife is always ready for immediate use. This makes it a reliable choice for survival and self-defence situations.
4. Versatile and Effective: Whether you're skinning game, preparing food, or carving wood, fixed blade knives offer superior performance in a variety of tasks.

Cons of Fixed Blade Knives

1. Less Compact and Portable: One major drawback is their size. Fixed blade knives require a sheath for safe carrying, which can make them bulkier compared to folding knives.
2. Not Always Legal to Carry: In the UK, carrying a fixed blade knife in public without a valid reason can be illegal. This makes them less suitable for everyday carry (EDC) compared to folding knives.

Folding Knives: Compact and Convenient

Folding knives, also known as pocket knives, have a pivot mechanism that allows the blade to fold into the handle. These knives are widely used for everyday carry, offering a blend of portability and functionality.

Pros of Folding Knives

1. Compact and Portable: The foldable design makes them easy to carry in your pocket, making them a convenient option for everyday use.
2. Safer to Carry: With the blade tucked inside the handle, there's a reduced risk of accidental cuts or injuries when carrying the knife.
3. More Legal to Carry in Public: UK knife laws are strict, but folding knives with a blade length of 3 inches (7.62 cm) or less are generally legal to carry without a specific reason, making them a more practical choice for daily carry.
4. Variety of Designs and Mechanisms: From classic slip-joint designs to modern locking mechanisms, folding knives come in a wide range of styles to suit different needs and preferences.

Cons of Folding Knives

1. Less Durable than Fixed Blades – Because they have moving parts, folding knives are inherently weaker than fixed blade knives. Heavy-duty tasks can cause wear and tear on the pivot mechanism over time.
2. Requires More Maintenance – Dirt and debris can get trapped in the folding mechanism, requiring regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure smooth operation.
3. Slower Deployment – Unlike fixed blades, folding knives take time to open, which may not be ideal in situations where you need quick access to your blade.

Which Knife Should You Buy?

The decision between a fixed blade knife and a folding knife comes down to how you plan to use it. Here are some key considerations:

• For Outdoor and Survival Use: If you need a knife for camping, hunting, bushcraft, or survival situations, a fixed blade knife is the superior choice due to its strength and reliability.
• For Everyday Carry (EDC): If you’re looking for a practical knife for opening packages, cutting rope, or general utility tasks, a folding knife is the better option because of its portability and legal compliance.
• For Tactical or Self-Defence Purposes: In extreme cases where a knife may be used for self-defence, a fixed blade is quicker to deploy and more durable. However, UK laws on carrying such knives in public are very strict, so always check local regulations before making a decision.
• For Legal Carry in the UK: If you want to carry a knife legally without requiring a specific reason, a folding knife with a blade length of 3 inches or less is your best bet. Anything larger or with a locking mechanism may require justification for carrying.

Final Thoughts

Both fixed blade knives and folding knives have their place, and the best choice depends on your specific needs. If you’re after strength, durability, and reliability for outdoor use, a fixed blade knife is the way to go. If you prefer something discreet, portable, and more legally compliant for everyday carry in the UK, a folding knife is the better option.

No matter which knife you choose, investing in a high-quality blade from a trusted brand like Perkin Knives ensures that you get a tool that’s built to last. Browse our collection today and find the perfect knife for your needs!