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Now is the time to focus our full attention on the best boot knife. These knives are top-rated and considered to be some of the most practical you can find. They will fit your boot, and they will be within reach at all times. We have a long guide to help you choose the right model for you. We have also provided 5 of our favorite boot knives.
>>Click here to find out our favorite boot knife on Amazon
What are boot knives, and are they legal?
A boot knife is small to a medium-sized knife that can be carried on the boot. The best boot knife has to be very strong. The size of the blade varies depending on the model and the type you are looking for. It can be from 2 inches in length up to 7 inches. Different kinds of people require different blades due to specific purposes.
A boot knife is legal in most states and most countries around the world. Keep in mind that in some cases, you need the blade under 2 inches in length to meet these regulations.
There are some cases, usually for bigger boot knives, where the law prohibits their use. This is common for larger knives, and they are considered to be a weapon. Your local law may affect only double-edged knives, a specific type of length. Check with local authorities.
2024’s 5 Best Boot Knives Reviews
Here is the list of our favorite boot knives available on Amazon.
SOG Instinct Mini 1.9 Inch – Small Boot Knife
SOG Small Fixed Blade Knives – Instinct Mini 1.9 Inch is the best small boot knife we found on Amazon. Here’s why. It is well-made, and it comes with impressive specifications. The knife is lightweight, includes a sheath and a cord, and looks stunning.
1.4 ounces
As you can see, the tested model is extremely lightweight. Considering the size, which is 4.8 inches in total, the knife manages to keep the weight to the bare minimum. It can be the best choice for those of you who seek a small and powerful blade.
There are no strength issues we notice, and the knife performed well on different tests. We liked using it and caring for it for a long period. The blade is 4.9 inches in length.
G10 handle
The handle is known as G10, and it makes this knife special. The handle makes it easy to use, compact and allows you to use it for an extended period of time. At the same time, it is very easy to use it for all kinds of maneuvers.
5CR15MOV satin stainless steel
The primary material is a special type of stainless steel. It is known as 5CR15MOV, and it has a satin finish. The kind of metal is very strong, useful, and comes with superb sharpness retention. We also liked the fact this blade is easy to maintain.
Pros:
- G10 handle
- Ergonomic design
- Sheath and cord included
- Value for money
Cons:
- Small for some users
- Factory sharpening is average
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon
Kershaw Secret Agent (4007); Concealable Boot Knife
Kershaw Secret Agent (4007) might be the best boot knife for users who need a larger blade. It is 4.4 inches in length, and there are advanced features we must mention below. In essence, the knife is capable, useful, and strong.
Black oxide coating
The blade is coated with a special compound known as black oxide. This is precisely the main reason why it looks black and different than other blades. There are several benefits of this coating.
The coating will make sure the blade stays magnetized-free at all times. It will also keep it safe from rust and corrosion and maintain its factory shape and look.
8Cr13MoV steel
The Chinese steel is the standard type used for most cheap knives. We loved the easiness when it comes to sharpening it, and it features great corrosion resistance, although it is relatively poor at edge retention.
Reinforced synthetic polymer handle
The handle is compact, and it is made from a reinforced polymer. This translates to a strong handle capable of withstanding all kinds of usages and even the most complex applications.
The handle itself is easy to hold and comfortable, but it isn’t ergonomic. If it was, this model would be even better.
Pros:
- Black oxide coating
- Reinforced polymer handle
- Length of the blade
- Practical
Cons:
- Isn’t ergonomic
- One edge is sharp
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon
Cold Steel Kobun Fixed Blade AUS 8A Plain Boot Knife
The model we have here is superb for people who prefer cutting. It is a small, strong, and extremely durable unit that looks slim, and it is very comfortable to carry. You will enjoy using it, and you will have a useful blade at all times.
AUS 8 steel
The steel is a standard variation of stainless steel, and there are not a lot of facts we can mention regarding it. This steel is fairly tough, poor at edge retention but very easy to sharpen, and can be used for all operations.
Professional sheath
The sheath is made from strong materials and can accommodate the knife in all situations. We liked the look and the overall appeal. The sheath looks professional, and it is made to meet this level of craftsmanship.
Advanced cutting capability
It isn’t strange why this is the main advantage of the tested unit. The blade is ideal for cuttings of all kinds, and you will love the sharpness. That’s being said, the knife is handy, and it may be the best one for hunters. It is far from small either.
Pros:
- Blade shape
- Sharpness
- Sheath
- Design
Cons:
- Lack of information
- Price
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon
Buck Knives 0616BKS OPS BOOT Tactical Knife with Versatile Sheath
What can we say about the Buck Knives 0616BKS OPS BOOT Tactical Knife with Versatile Sheath? It is an advanced unit that comes in a great package. The knife targets advanced users who are planning to use it all the time, mostly for cutting. We found three main features of it.
G10 handle
The type of handle we have here has been mentioned earlier, so we won’t go in-depth with it. All you need to remember is that the handle is strong, can be used for all kinds of operations, and is made from composite materials.
We also must add that the handle is ergonomic; therefore, holding the knife feels nice and natural. The handle is lightweight as well.
Leather sheath
In the package, you get a sheath made from high-quality leather. It will hold the knife in place at all times, and it is very nice to look at. We can add that this is one of the best sheaths in this price range. It is durable and practical.
Lifetime warranty
This is the case with all knives made by this brand. You get a lifetime warranty, and you can be confident that the knife will last as long as you need it. Besides, this model is made in the United States, and it meets all the regulations.
We always like knives with a lifetime warranty. They are the best value for money, and you know that they are well-made. This is an obvious example.
Pros:
- Leather sheath
- Handle comfort
- Great warranty
- Value for money
Cons:
- Size of handle
- One version is available only
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon
Old Timer 162OT Boot Knife Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife
Old Timer 162OT Boot Knife Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife is a stunning creation. It feels solid and like an old-school knife. This is the main design direction the company used. You will adore it, and you will want to carry it with you as often as possible. The knife comes with a leather sheath.
7Cr17 steel
The type of steel we have here is carbon stainless steel. It is harder than the usual types, and it can last longer. Of course, this steel is more complicated to sharpen and maintain, but this is a well-known fact. You will love the overall blade.
The knife may look old, but it is made with the help of the latest technology. It also meets the regulations, and we were unable to find any issues with it on our tests.
Nickel Silver Bolsters
The bolsters are present on the handle, or better said through it. They are chosen for two reasons. The first one is the design, which is classical and well-known. The second reason is the strength of the handle.
In a nutshell, the handle is super-strong, and it can meet the requirements all of us have. We all liked the shape, the comfort, and the appeal of the knife alongside the handle.
0.2 pounds of weight
This isn’t a small knife, but it is lightweight. This is possible thanks to the materials used and the ability of the cutting-edge manufacturing process. The knife can be carried within you at all times, and it is convenient.
Pros:
- Type of steel
- Lightweight
- Impressive design
- Bolsters of the handle
Cons:
- Maintenance
- Sheath issues
How to Find the Best Boot Knife for You
Image by Ronald Plett
Don’t think that a boot knife is small, simple to choose, and an irrelevant piece of hardware. It is completely the opposite. You need to consider several factors before getting the one you will appreciate. This brings us to the next section.
Below you can see the main and less-known factors you need to include when looking for a knife of this kind. If you use all of them, you will make the right choice and get a boot knife that meets all your desires and requirements.
Blade material
Most knives available today are made from stainless steel. This is the case with boot knives, as well. Those made from stainless steel are strong, won’t rust, and maintain sharpness well. Carbon steel is a rare alternative, and it requires more maintenance, but the sharpness is better.
Here we can see one significant difference. Boot knives are also made from combinations of metals. If a model you are looking at is made from stainless steel and other metals, you can get it and use it for all purposes. If the mixture doesn’t contain steel, avoid it.
Blade length
There are all kinds of boot knives. Some of them have a blade with 1 or 2 inches, while others have bigger blades with four or even more inches. Keep into consideration the local law and the need for a blade. If you want to cut basic things, go for a small model.
If you want to use the knife for hunting and self-defense, go for a bigger blade. It is more versatile and comes with significant advantages.
Type of the blade
Not all blades are made the same. Some are flat, others serrated, and the third is hybrid. In general, these were the three main types of blades. The flat blade is standard and most common these days. It is used for smaller boot knives.
The serrated blade will have multiple edges, and it affects cutting. Hunters usually use knives with this blade. Hybrid models have both flat and serrated, and they are bigger than most models.
Point type
Now we need to take a closer look at the point of a blade. There are several options, including spear point, drop point, straight, clip, etc. We won’t tell you which point is the best due to a simple reason. You will know which one you need as soon as you see it.
Dull types of points are more preferable for cutting because they make the edge longer. Sharp point blades are ideal for self-defense.
Handle
Yes, the handle is the second biggest and the central part of a knife. Boot knives have all kinds of handles starting from the smallest made from plastics, up to high-end models made from reinforced nylon.
Reinforced nylon with glass is the best option. It is the lightest and the most cost-effective. On the other hand, aluminum handles are the strongest and best-looking.
Ergonomics
A boot knife must have an ergonomic handle. This is an essential part of the knife that has a significant impact on how long you can use the knife and for which purposes. That’s why all new models have some type of ergonomics implemented into the handle.
We prefer handles that are comfortable to hold in hand and make the knife feel compact. Usually, this involves some type of curvature for the fingers.
Weight
You must remember that a big blade has a high level of weight. This is something you can feel, especially while walking across the forest. That’s why a big blade is reserved for users who have great stamina and who can cope with that weight.
The weight of boot knives varies between 1.5 and 10 ounces. We prefer models that are up to 5 ounces of weight. They are still large and useful, but they are lightweight.
Sheath
All boot knives must come with a sheath. This is a mandatory accessory in this case scenario, and it deserves your full attention. A boot knife without a sheath is useless, and you will have to find one additionally. Luckily this isn’t a difficult task.
Paracord
A cord or the chain may be included in the package. It allows you to carry the knife around your neck, to tie it down to something, or simply to hold it for the cord. Cords should be made from nylon or metal chains. A good thing is a fact most models come with a cord these days.
Warranty
As you may know, we prefer knives with a lifetime warranty. They are tested, and they can withstand heavy-duty usages. They are a great investment, and you can be positive that a knife will stay useful for ages.
A lifetime warranty is common, and as such, we won’t waste your time by telling you how important it is.
Conclusion
SOG Small Fixed Blade Knives – Instinct Mini 1.9 Inch is the best boot knife, and here’s why. The G10 handle is stunning. The blade is strong, and the users will get it with a sheath and a cord. All of this means that the knife is convenient, versatile, and also excellent value for money. We give it 4.9 out of 5 stars, which is a stunning score and the best we can provide.
Hi, I am Jay. I am the creator of Knife Guides, your one-stop site for everything related to knives. I am a computer engineer by profession, knife aficionado by passion. Here I work with a group of people who’ve always had a passion for knives and blades. Over the years we’ve kind of become experts and decided to share our knowledge and ideas. I am also an avid hiker and enjoy offshore gamefishing.
