Best Horizontal Carry (Scout Carry) Knives in 2024

The scout carry is an excellent way to EDC a fixed blade. It’s easy and comfortable while providing quick access in case things get rough!. In my view, horizontal carry style is only a matter of comfort and personal preferences, not a tactical choice. Horizontal carry knives are also great for hiking if you have fat legs that rub against the vertical carried fixed blades while doing complicated maneuvers.

Here are 5 of our favorite fixed blade knives that you can wear in the horizontal and scout carry positions.

5 Best Scout Carry Knives in 2024

Bradford Knives Guardian 3

Bradford Knives is famous for its high-quality standards and durability. This knife makes no exception. Based on top-notch materials, follow some simple procedures to look after it, and it will be your primary choice for ages.

The blade is made of N690 steel (there are a few expensive variants in M390 as well). It has a high carbon composition, so the edge retention is flawless – the knife can be used out of the box, as it is razor-sharp. The blade measures just over three inches in length – suitable for all kinds of applications.

It is quite wide and features serrations on the dull side –only close to the handle. The serrations are suitable for cutting rope, seat belts, and so on. The tip is also sharp and can be used for punctures. The blade is available in more finishes.

The Micarta handle (some variants have G10) is about the same size as the blade, so the knife is well balanced. In addition, the full tang profile adds to the stability and durability – double-riveted. You will also notice a small lanyard hole at one end of the handle.

The handle is ergonomic, so you will know precisely where your fingers go. It is also textured, meaning the knife is less likely to slip out of your hand – even if it is wet or sweaty. Furthermore, handles are also available in more colors.

The knife is versatile and can be used in a warehouse, at home, or outdoors. For example, you can use it to open a bottle or cut wires at work. It has a leather sheath that goes horizontally, so the knife will never be in your way, regardless of what you do.

Pros

• Full tang design
• A bit of customization
• Versatile applications
• Comfortable to carry around
• Super sharp

Cons

• The index finger rests on the blade, meaning you could get accidental nicks.

ESEE 4P-MB

Made in the USA and looking quite compact, this is the best scout carry knife if you want something small yet efficient at pretty much anything. The knife has a fixed blade profile and will be suitable for survival, tactical, camping, or working tasks.

The blade is based on high carbon steel. The high carbon composition means once it gets sharp, it will be incredibly efficient – edge retention will never be an issue either. However, the edge is razor-sharp out of the box anyway.

The blade measures 4.5 inches. If you look at the size, the knife does not seem small at all – but then, as you hold and use it, you realize it is so compact that it feels like an extension of your arm. The most common design features a dark earth finish for the blade, which also has a few serrations on the dull side – close to the handle.

When it comes to the handle, you have three rivets. In other words, the knife is very well balanced and will not disappoint you – even after years of regular use. Apart from the rivets, you have light hand guard protection and a small lanyard hole.

The knife feels comfortable and compact because the handle is the same size as the blade – 4.5 inches. In addition, it has an ergonomic appearance due to its light curves. Made of canvas micarta, it has a textured profile, so the knife is stable in your hands even if they are sweaty or wet.

Finally, the knife comes with its sheath. It is made of black molded polymer. It fits like a glove and allows you to carry the unit horizontally.

Pros

• Balanced and stable
• Quality and durable design
• Textured handle
• Excellent sheath
• Good edge retention

Cons

• Those with large hands may find the handle a bit too small

Buck Knives Selkirk

Established in 1902, Buck Knives are among the top knife manufacturers in the world. Its knives come with a lifetime warranty and superb durability. This model is versatile and suitable for all kinds of activities – from hunting and survival to work and various tasks around your home.

Its razor-sharp blade measures just over 4.5 inches in length. It is a drop point blade based on 420HC steel. It has good rust and corrosion resistance, but it will also surprise you with its edge retention. The strength is not to be overlooked either – forget about broken tips and chips.

Overall, the knife weighs just over 7.5 ounces. The handle is almost the same size as the blade, so the balance will never be an issue. In addition, it has good hand guard protection and a contoured design for ergonomics.

Talking about the handle, you have a steel bolster and a top-notch grip. The steel bolster can also be used as a small hammer when in need. Furthermore, the knife comes with a fire started, which also has an integrated whistle – good for emergencies.

The knife has its sheath. Based on injection molded nylon, it will last for ages. It can be configured horizontally or vertically, making this unit the best scout carry knife for all kinds of different situations. The adjustment is quick and straightforward.

In terms of maintenance, wash the knife manually and never in a dishwasher.

Pros

• It comes with a bunch of extras
• Good value for money
• Vertical or horizontal carry
• Stable and well balanced
• High-quality standards

Cons

• It May take a bit to get used to switching from vertical to horizontal carry and vice versa.

CRKT SPEW- Best Cheap Knife for Horizontal Carry

CRKT’s best cheap scout carry knife may seem light and fragile, but do not let the skinny and small appearance fool you. The knife is exceptionally agile, and despite the thin blade, that tip will take a lot of abuse before showing any signs of wear and tear.

The blade is based on 5Cr15MoV high carbon stainless steel. Not only is it rust and corrosion-resistant, but it also takes an edge well and will retain it for a long time. It measures three inches and is suitable for all kinds of applications in the wild, at work, or home.

The G10 handle is textured and highly ergonomic. It follows the shape of your hand. As a result, it will provide a top-notch grip in any situation – even if your hands are wet or sweaty, the knife will never slip out.

The utility knife comes with a thermoplastic sheath and a belt loop. It has a few mounting options – one of them allowing you to carry the knife horizontally. Even with the sheath on, the knife is compact and lightweight.

It is worth noting that you can find this knife in one design only. The handle has a stunning brown design. The bead blast finish is also unique and reduces reflection – excellent if you use the knife while on a hunting trip.

Pros

• Lightweight and agile
• Solid blade
• Quality materials
• Highly ergonomic handle
• Easy to sharpen
• Cheap

Cons

• The handle might feel a bit too small for those with large hands

Spyderco Ronin 2

Spyderco Ronin 2 is one of the best horizontal carry knives you can always rely on. No matter where you are – be it an emergency or not, you can count on this knife. It comes with a fixed blade and ambidextrous hand orientation.

The knife features an ergonomic handle – you can see exactly where your hand and fingers are supposed to go. The grip is excellent, and the knife will never slip out of your hand. It also has a lanyard hole, as well as two rivets. The rough design adds to its stability, while hand guard protection prevents injuries.

The handle is made of G10, but this is not the only superior material used for this knife. The full tang knife is made from Carpenter CTS BD1N steel which is nitrogen-enriched. As a result, it will most likely resist corrosion forever.

Other than that, the blade is razor-sharp, but it will also hold the edge well over time. It measures just over four inches in length, and it has a super sharp tip. The handle is slightly shorter – good balance when in use.

The unit is highly portable with its Boltaron sheath. In addition, the sheath is enhanced with a G clip attachment. As a result, you can hold the knife inside the waistband and around the belt.

Finally, make sure you wash this knife by hand rather than in a dishwasher. You risk damaging the edge otherwise.

Pros

• Built with quality in mind
• Different carry styles
• Impressive edge retention
• Highly ergonomic handle
• Durable

Cons

• Sheath feels a bit too tight

Conclusion

Bottom line, deciding on the best scout carry knife is a matter of personal preferences, as well as legal regulations. You need to be aware of what you can legally carry and the maximum size for the blade. Other than that, each of the options mentioned above will give you an exquisite experience.